What do you think?
Rate this book
Blakeley Manor #4
My So-Called Scoundrel
When one finds a bleeding, half-naked, indescribably handsome man in one’s bed, does one…ScreamFaintHit him with a large bookPush him back out the window he climbed inBandage his wounds like a sensible bluestocking-in-the-making
The most perfectly imperfect debutante…
Marigold Spencer was never supposed to have a London Season. For heaven’s sake, she was never even supposed to become a lady! The former housemaid of a duke, Marigold is thrust into the limelight when her siblings marry far above their stations. Suddenly faced with the marriage mart, her escort and chaperone is not only one of ton’s most notorious scoundrels, but the utterly infuriating man still won’t tell her where he got the knife wound that led him to her bed that night.
…can still tempt the deadliest of rogues.
Lord Leigh Blakeley's path took a sharp turn from seductive rake to vengeful assassin long ago. Yet when he finally returns home for a visit, he nearly ruins his new sister-in-law’s reputation for good by falling into her bed after a misadventure. Now Leigh finds himself forced to play chaperone to a debutante... one who unexpectedly enchants his cynical heart. And when Leigh foolishly proposes to teach the innocent young Miss Spencer something of the ways of pleasure, he ignites an inferno of passion that quickly turns unquenchable.
When another man presents Miss Spencer with an irresistible proposition, Leigh realizes the desire of his heart is quickly slipping away. Though he's never intended to wed, Leigh finds himself making an offer Miss Spencer can't possibly refuse... or can she?
In this tantalizing Regency romance by USA Today bestselling author Fenna Edgewood, desire knows no bounds as the most unlikely of lovers succumb to the flames of their passion and defy society's expectations.
The most perfectly imperfect debutante…
Marigold Spencer was never supposed to have a London Season. For heaven’s sake, she was never even supposed to become a lady! The former housemaid of a duke, Marigold is thrust into the limelight when her siblings marry far above their stations. Suddenly faced with the marriage mart, her escort and chaperone is not only one of ton’s most notorious scoundrels, but the utterly infuriating man still won’t tell her where he got the knife wound that led him to her bed that night.
…can still tempt the deadliest of rogues.
Lord Leigh Blakeley's path took a sharp turn from seductive rake to vengeful assassin long ago. Yet when he finally returns home for a visit, he nearly ruins his new sister-in-law’s reputation for good by falling into her bed after a misadventure. Now Leigh finds himself forced to play chaperone to a debutante... one who unexpectedly enchants his cynical heart. And when Leigh foolishly proposes to teach the innocent young Miss Spencer something of the ways of pleasure, he ignites an inferno of passion that quickly turns unquenchable.
When another man presents Miss Spencer with an irresistible proposition, Leigh realizes the desire of his heart is quickly slipping away. Though he's never intended to wed, Leigh finds himself making an offer Miss Spencer can't possibly refuse... or can she?
In this tantalizing Regency romance by USA Today bestselling author Fenna Edgewood, desire knows no bounds as the most unlikely of lovers succumb to the flames of their passion and defy society's expectations.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2024
162 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Fenna Edgewood
21 books181 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Fenna Edgewood writes steamy, swoon-worthy stories of love, family, and adventure. Fenna lives on the Canadian Prairies with her husband and two tiny tots (who are adorable but generally terrible research assistants). She is an award-winning retired academic who has studied English literature for most of her life. Before becoming a full-time author, her last "real" job was teaching high school students above the Arctic Circle. After a long hiatus from writing make-believe as a twelve-year-old, she has returned to the genre with a bang!
For a FREE book from Fenna, join her NL: https://fennaedgewood.com/newsletter/
And be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest deals! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/fenna...
For a FREE book from Fenna, join her NL: https://fennaedgewood.com/newsletter/
And be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest deals! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/fenna...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
April 9, 2023
My So-Called Scoundrel, the last book in the Blakeley Manor Series, is a delightful read and sees the return of the black sheep of the Blakeley family, Lord Leigh Blakeley, as he falls in love with the last of the Spencer siblings, Marigold, an unconventional debutante at the age of 22. What I loved most about Marigold is her intelligence, her willingness to serve others less fortunate than herself. to do good in the world and her big heart - so it is lovely to see a smart curvy girl find her own personal happiness with the man of her choice, the ever handsome and rakish Lord Leigh, who has a touch of Inigo Montoya in him (Princess Bride lovers will know exactly what I mean!). And it is great to see that Leigh really isn't the rogue, or scoundrel (hence so-called) whom everyone has imagined him to be while he has been away from home. They are enjoyable characters that are easy to like and to root for their happy ending, and it is fun to see characters from previous novels in the series pop up and have a role in this book (specifically Lady Fulford, with a few glimpses of Dare and Laurel), as the two-family saga concludes. I think one drawback is that it shouldn't be read out of order (which I did) or as a standalone, since some of the characters from previous novels (like Caleb Bryce) are not as well defined as to how they fit in with the Blakeleys and why they are important to this story. There is some violence against women but also some involving Leigh, his uncle Royal and other men, but it is mostly off-page (which I appreciated).
I enjoyed this novel, which was well-written and filled with important issues facing women of the day such as not being allowed to study medicine but finding a way nevertheless and the potential plight of unwed mothers to-be. I especially adored that the epilogue ended on a humorous note that left me smiling at the end and hopeful that Marigold and Leigh will have a long, happy and meaningful life together.
I received a free copy of this book as an eARC from NetGalley. This is my honest review of it, and all opinions expressed herein are my own.
I enjoyed this novel, which was well-written and filled with important issues facing women of the day such as not being allowed to study medicine but finding a way nevertheless and the potential plight of unwed mothers to-be. I especially adored that the epilogue ended on a humorous note that left me smiling at the end and hopeful that Marigold and Leigh will have a long, happy and meaningful life together.
I received a free copy of this book as an eARC from NetGalley. This is my honest review of it, and all opinions expressed herein are my own.
May 8, 2024
Over the years, while I am waiting for new releases from my "regular" authors to come out, I look for other books to read. There are few I have made my “go to” authors. These are authors I don't read on a regular basis but have researched and enjoyed their books. Fenna Edgewood is a fairly new author to this list. This is only my 7th book by her and I have really enjoyed her books. I feel she gets great depth in her characters and sex is pretty decent.
I loved Marigold and Leigh. At first, I didn't think I was going to like Marigold based on the last book but she ended up being my favorite character. I loved her and Leigh together. What a great and perfect couple. I loved their story.
I loved Marigold and Leigh. At first, I didn't think I was going to like Marigold based on the last book but she ended up being my favorite character. I loved her and Leigh together. What a great and perfect couple. I loved their story.
December 21, 2024
This series has been a joy and this final book a pure delight. I was immediately drawn to the fierce and independent nature that is Marigold Spencer. She is a force of nature, determined to carve a place for herself, a place that is more than simply a debutante. The Spencer family were raised with brains and purpose, the need to do and be ‘more’. Lord Leigh Blakeley is believed to be a scoundrel seeking a life of pleasure, but he has been pursuing more purpose than that. One cannot help but be drawn to his confidence and teasing nature. The chemistry between these two was the perfect blend of electric and comforting. They were more than lovers even from the start, learning to be friends first. I loved their witty banter and their supporting nature. The story provides just enough questions to keep you glued to the page and enough passion to keep you excited. A wonderful love story and fitting conclusion of 2 families coming together to complete a beautiful picture.
March 21, 2023
3.5-4 Stars! This is the 3rd book in the ‘Blakeley Manor’ series. The books in this series can be read as standalones, for the most part. The main characters were Leigh & Marigold. I really enjoyed them & was rooting for them the whole time. I feel like this book was a bit unfinished though & a lot of my questions were never answered. Mostly those questions were about secondary characters, however. I did enjoy this book. The ‘sexy times’ scenes were steamy and the rest of the book was funny, entertaining and I enjoyed reading it.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*
April 1, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this novel and this is my freely given opinion...
Is this really the end of the Blakeley Manor series? I guess so if it is about the last of the siblings, but I feel that there are stories left untold... what about the Dowager Duchess and her illness, and does she ever gain back her memory? Do we want her to, considering how she and her husband likely suffered?? I feel there is more to the story of Ms. Barry and Dr. Bannerjee that I need to know - they are very intriguing characters and for that matter I like their light/dark, yin/yang, grumpy/sunshine dynamic. Also, curious as to what happens with the Marquess, Byron, Carlotta, and Victoria Peel. But I think it is a good thing when a writer writes secondary characters that make a reader care about what happens to them.
This is the story of the younger Blakeley brother, Lord Leigh, and the younger Spencer sister, Marigold. Leigh has been mentioned briefly in the past and characterized as the fancy free rakish scoundrel haring his way about the continent. But really, he has been living a secret life, seeking information on his missing parents, with his rogue uncle, and then seeking revenge. He has been very focused on that for a number of years, hiding under the cloak of being a rake. He ends up injured one night and climbs through the window, passing out on what he thinks is his bed.
It turns out he went through the wrong window and ends up bleeding across the bed of Marigold, who bandages him up and keeps his injuries secret, though she does not know the story behind it, thinking he had a run in with an irate husband of a lover. Even though welcomed back into the fold, everyone in the family is in the dark about how Leigh has been living his life, and presumes he has been drifting about. He chooses not to enlighten them, especially as he is not yet done his self-imposed quest of vengeance. He is inveigled into chaperoning Marigold and Lady Fulford in London, and reluctantly agrees to this, as he must go to London to find his last target anyways.
Marigold, now elevated by a huge dowry, and her sister's marriage to a duke, is forced to have a Season, sponsored by family friend Lady Fulford. She wants nothing to do with it, especially when mistreated by superficial catty socialites who mock her and threaten her. She has grown up to appreciate her own strength and abilities and wants to do more with her life. As such, she ends up seeking out Ms. Maggie Barry at the dispensary that the Duke found his ill mother at, in book 1, and endeavouring to apprentice and learn there.
Leigh finds himself developing feelings for Marigold and wanting to be closer to her, initially he fights this, but finds himself giving into his desire to be with her, especially when he finds an unexpected rival for his affections. He chooses to woo her by finding out what she truly wants, which is not the typical candy, flowers, and compliments expected by normal debutantes, and he ends up following her to St. Giles and the dispensary.
This story was a bit muddled by a lot of other story lines and characters, but I did enjoy the characters and the writing style in general of Fenna Edgewood, and I liked how things came together more cohesively in the end. There was a bit of a Mean Girls aspect to it, in how the other debutantes treated Marigold, but I liked how it turned out in the end and connected to the dispensary and her and Leigh's wish for a greater purpose. But if it is a trigger, there is an aspect of domestic abuse, unexpected pregnancies, and abortion in the story lines too, so be aware of that.
One quibble I had though was that I felt that the revenge story line of Leigh was too short and truncated - considering it was his raisin d'etre for so many years, in my opinion, not a lot of information is given about his uncle, his adventures and what he found out, and about the family/people he was seeking out, not until the end. It was also sad to read about his father, but not a lot of information was given about how he found out what happened to his parents, etc. I was hoping that there would be a bit more happiness for their mother in the end.
4.25 stars out of 5
Is this really the end of the Blakeley Manor series? I guess so if it is about the last of the siblings, but I feel that there are stories left untold... what about the Dowager Duchess and her illness, and does she ever gain back her memory? Do we want her to, considering how she and her husband likely suffered?? I feel there is more to the story of Ms. Barry and Dr. Bannerjee that I need to know - they are very intriguing characters and for that matter I like their light/dark, yin/yang, grumpy/sunshine dynamic. Also, curious as to what happens with the Marquess, Byron, Carlotta, and Victoria Peel. But I think it is a good thing when a writer writes secondary characters that make a reader care about what happens to them.
This is the story of the younger Blakeley brother, Lord Leigh, and the younger Spencer sister, Marigold. Leigh has been mentioned briefly in the past and characterized as the fancy free rakish scoundrel haring his way about the continent. But really, he has been living a secret life, seeking information on his missing parents, with his rogue uncle, and then seeking revenge. He has been very focused on that for a number of years, hiding under the cloak of being a rake. He ends up injured one night and climbs through the window, passing out on what he thinks is his bed.
It turns out he went through the wrong window and ends up bleeding across the bed of Marigold, who bandages him up and keeps his injuries secret, though she does not know the story behind it, thinking he had a run in with an irate husband of a lover. Even though welcomed back into the fold, everyone in the family is in the dark about how Leigh has been living his life, and presumes he has been drifting about. He chooses not to enlighten them, especially as he is not yet done his self-imposed quest of vengeance. He is inveigled into chaperoning Marigold and Lady Fulford in London, and reluctantly agrees to this, as he must go to London to find his last target anyways.
Marigold, now elevated by a huge dowry, and her sister's marriage to a duke, is forced to have a Season, sponsored by family friend Lady Fulford. She wants nothing to do with it, especially when mistreated by superficial catty socialites who mock her and threaten her. She has grown up to appreciate her own strength and abilities and wants to do more with her life. As such, she ends up seeking out Ms. Maggie Barry at the dispensary that the Duke found his ill mother at, in book 1, and endeavouring to apprentice and learn there.
Leigh finds himself developing feelings for Marigold and wanting to be closer to her, initially he fights this, but finds himself giving into his desire to be with her, especially when he finds an unexpected rival for his affections. He chooses to woo her by finding out what she truly wants, which is not the typical candy, flowers, and compliments expected by normal debutantes, and he ends up following her to St. Giles and the dispensary.
This story was a bit muddled by a lot of other story lines and characters, but I did enjoy the characters and the writing style in general of Fenna Edgewood, and I liked how things came together more cohesively in the end. There was a bit of a Mean Girls aspect to it, in how the other debutantes treated Marigold, but I liked how it turned out in the end and connected to the dispensary and her and Leigh's wish for a greater purpose. But if it is a trigger, there is an aspect of domestic abuse, unexpected pregnancies, and abortion in the story lines too, so be aware of that.
One quibble I had though was that I felt that the revenge story line of Leigh was too short and truncated - considering it was his raisin d'etre for so many years, in my opinion, not a lot of information is given about his uncle, his adventures and what he found out, and about the family/people he was seeking out, not until the end. It was also sad to read about his father, but not a lot of information was given about how he found out what happened to his parents, etc. I was hoping that there would be a bit more happiness for their mother in the end.
4.25 stars out of 5
March 28, 2023
Marigold Spencer was never supposed to have a London Season. For heaven’s sake, she was never even supposed to become a lady! The former housemaid of a duke, Marigold is thrust into the limelight when her siblings marry far above their stations. Lord Leigh Blakeley's path took a sharp turn from seductive rake to vengeful assassin long ago. Yet when he finally returns home for a visit, he nearly ruins his new sister-in-law’s reputation for good by falling into her bed after a misadventure. Now Leigh finds himself forced to play chaperone to a debutante... one who unexpectedly enchants his cynical heart. And when Leigh foolishly proposes to teach the innocent young Miss Spencer something of the ways of pleasure, he ignites an inferno of passion that quickly turns unquenchable.
The third book in this delightful series & it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading in order as not much time is spent catching up on the backstory. I loved Marigold, intelligent & feisty a real match for Leigh. I also liked Leigh who had hidden depths. A very entertaining read, which kept me smiling & I loved Leigh & Marigold’s journey to a HEA, I love it when a rake falls hard & fast & is made to fell jealous
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in this delightful series & it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading in order as not much time is spent catching up on the backstory. I loved Marigold, intelligent & feisty a real match for Leigh. I also liked Leigh who had hidden depths. A very entertaining read, which kept me smiling & I loved Leigh & Marigold’s journey to a HEA, I love it when a rake falls hard & fast & is made to fell jealous
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 16, 2023
Thanks to Wolf Publishing for an ARC of this book. I’m a big fan of Fenna Edgewood and this book takes us back to the Blakely family. This time it’s Leigh, younger brother of the Duke, and Marigold, youngest sister of the Spencer family, who have worked for the Blakelys. Laurel, her older sister, is married to the Duke. Her brother is married to the Duke’s sister, and Wren, her half-brother, is married to the youngest sister of the Duke. It’s all very odd, and confusing, but if you can suspend your disbelief, it all makes sense. The siblings from each family just can’t help falling in love with one another.
Marigold is unexpectedly thrust into a situation where she needs to have a coming out season in London (due to her new relationship with the Duke), which she really doesn’t want. Meanwhile, Leigh returns from years away from his family and they meet. He is considered a bit of a rake and a good-for-nothing, but there’s more to him than meets the eye. Still, he is dead set against marriage, so when he finds himself magnetically drawn to Marigold, he doesn't know what to do. He doesn’t want her to marry anyone else, but he’s fearful of marrying her himself. Early on, it becomes clear that her patroness, Lady Fulford, is playing him and clearly wants him to offer for Marigold.
There is a renowned rake by the name of Lord Harley who proposes to Marigold and Leigh is incensed that she would even entertain the idea. When Harley pops in to say hi to Marigold at the theater, Leigh feels murderous rage toward him. “If he pushed Harley over the side of the stage box, could he claim it was an accident? Oh, bother, who cared? It would be worth it, he decided.” Then, Lady Fulford invites Harley to come in and suggests he take Marigold for a walk around the theater. “On second thought, Leigh decided, he would wait for Harley to sweep Miss Spencer out of the box and then push Lady Fulford out of the box. How dare she simply offer Miss Spencer up like fruit on a platter! Did she not understand the dangers here?”
When Leigh finally realizes he simply cannot take the chance that Marigold might marry someone else, he offers for her himself. Then he regrets it, for complicated reasons having nothing to do with his feelings about her. “Tied a knot with his tongue that he could not untie with his teeth.”
Marigold and Leigh have some clever banter between them. Marigold is a smart, independent woman who wishes to help people so she volunteers at the clinic for the poor and indigent in Seven Dials. It’s the same clinic where the Duke donates funds (we were introduced to it in Kiss Me, My Duke). When Leigh finds out, he assures her that she can continue to do everything she wishes to do when they marry.
Marigold is sensible and confident and seems to handle Leigh with maturity, even when he tries to fluster her. She wishes to avoid marriage until he offers her everything she wants. Plus, she’s in love with him. Meanwhile, Leigh struggles with his inner demons and doesn’t believe he is good enough for Marigold, even though he wants her desperately. She helps him to see that he is good enough and that she loves him as much as he loves her.
Marigold is unexpectedly thrust into a situation where she needs to have a coming out season in London (due to her new relationship with the Duke), which she really doesn’t want. Meanwhile, Leigh returns from years away from his family and they meet. He is considered a bit of a rake and a good-for-nothing, but there’s more to him than meets the eye. Still, he is dead set against marriage, so when he finds himself magnetically drawn to Marigold, he doesn't know what to do. He doesn’t want her to marry anyone else, but he’s fearful of marrying her himself. Early on, it becomes clear that her patroness, Lady Fulford, is playing him and clearly wants him to offer for Marigold.
There is a renowned rake by the name of Lord Harley who proposes to Marigold and Leigh is incensed that she would even entertain the idea. When Harley pops in to say hi to Marigold at the theater, Leigh feels murderous rage toward him. “If he pushed Harley over the side of the stage box, could he claim it was an accident? Oh, bother, who cared? It would be worth it, he decided.” Then, Lady Fulford invites Harley to come in and suggests he take Marigold for a walk around the theater. “On second thought, Leigh decided, he would wait for Harley to sweep Miss Spencer out of the box and then push Lady Fulford out of the box. How dare she simply offer Miss Spencer up like fruit on a platter! Did she not understand the dangers here?”
When Leigh finally realizes he simply cannot take the chance that Marigold might marry someone else, he offers for her himself. Then he regrets it, for complicated reasons having nothing to do with his feelings about her. “Tied a knot with his tongue that he could not untie with his teeth.”
Marigold and Leigh have some clever banter between them. Marigold is a smart, independent woman who wishes to help people so she volunteers at the clinic for the poor and indigent in Seven Dials. It’s the same clinic where the Duke donates funds (we were introduced to it in Kiss Me, My Duke). When Leigh finds out, he assures her that she can continue to do everything she wishes to do when they marry.
Marigold is sensible and confident and seems to handle Leigh with maturity, even when he tries to fluster her. She wishes to avoid marriage until he offers her everything she wants. Plus, she’s in love with him. Meanwhile, Leigh struggles with his inner demons and doesn’t believe he is good enough for Marigold, even though he wants her desperately. She helps him to see that he is good enough and that she loves him as much as he loves her.
January 11, 2024
I was happy to be back at Blakeley Manor! I have read each of the books in this series, and I do think it helped a bit - there was not a ton of time given to the backstory of the Blakeley parents' plight or of Caleb Bryce. I loved Marigold. She is smart, ambitious, curvy, and caring, and also willing to figure out how to both work within society's boundaries while also doing the things she wanted to. Leigh is very obviously more than he appears and he learns how to accept Marigold for who she is and to shape her goals into something that meshes ever so well with his. They make sense as a couple, and not just because all of their siblings married each other!
Some small quibbles - there was SO much emphasis on Marigold's breasts. She is voluptuous, we get it. The subplot about the parents' kidnapping had a somewhat anticlimactic resolution. The length of Lauren's pregnancy made no sense. But as I said, there were small quibbles. I will be interested to see where Fenna Edgewood heads next. I wouldn't be surprised to see Hawkeye's story. I am pretty sure we can "peel" away the layers to know who he was in love with!
4.5 stars rounded to 5. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary ARC of this book. The opinions herein are my own.
Some small quibbles - there was SO much emphasis on Marigold's breasts. She is voluptuous, we get it. The subplot about the parents' kidnapping had a somewhat anticlimactic resolution. The length of Lauren's pregnancy made no sense. But as I said, there were small quibbles. I will be interested to see where Fenna Edgewood heads next. I wouldn't be surprised to see Hawkeye's story. I am pretty sure we can "peel" away the layers to know who he was in love with!
4.5 stars rounded to 5. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary ARC of this book. The opinions herein are my own.
April 27, 2023
This was a wonderful tale. We have Marigold, a bluestocking who has no interest in marriage, and Leigh, the duke's brother, and a so-called Rake, but really it’s just a front. Leigh ends up climbing into the wrong window while wounded and falls into Marigold’s bed. She finds him, bandages his wound, and helps him back to his room.
Slowly throughout the story, we learn more about why Marigold is against marriage and what Leah is really up to and both have good reasons. I loved that Marigold was helping out at a hospital (Dispensary), she wasn’t meek or shy, but rearing and ready to go. She was such a strong-willed character and I adored it. Leigh has been up to what could be considered nefarious activities but for the reason of justice. Both of these characters are so well-matched and their sexy scenes together were just 🔥.
This wasn’t some tale about the usual members of the Ton, these two have depth and no desire to be part of the Ne’er-do-wells of society—they actually want to take steps to change things. I adored this book!
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Class differences, slow burn
Triggers: Gun and knife violence, gangs, kidnapping (in retrospect), abortion (told by secondary characters)
Slowly throughout the story, we learn more about why Marigold is against marriage and what Leah is really up to and both have good reasons. I loved that Marigold was helping out at a hospital (Dispensary), she wasn’t meek or shy, but rearing and ready to go. She was such a strong-willed character and I adored it. Leigh has been up to what could be considered nefarious activities but for the reason of justice. Both of these characters are so well-matched and their sexy scenes together were just 🔥.
This wasn’t some tale about the usual members of the Ton, these two have depth and no desire to be part of the Ne’er-do-wells of society—they actually want to take steps to change things. I adored this book!
Tropes: Forced Proximity, Class differences, slow burn
Triggers: Gun and knife violence, gangs, kidnapping (in retrospect), abortion (told by secondary characters)
March 21, 2023
First of all, lets get this out of the way - Miss Peel and Hartley? I'm thinking they were originally in love, I'd love a branch out from this book to prove I'm right. Also, I'm glad Bryce is setting himself up to take Carlotta back!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ok, onto the real story. Marigold and Leigh. I think Marigold might be my favorite out of all of Fenna's heroines. She's smart AND sassy. Not that any of her sister's aren't, but she was clearly the baby of the family and used to getting her way but not as a spoiled brat. I loved the storyline of her volunteering in the dispensary, and Leigh coming to volunteer also instead of sending her courting gifts was a delight. I'm sorry to see this series end, but that just means a new fantastic set of books from Fenna will be on the horizon!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ok, onto the real story. Marigold and Leigh. I think Marigold might be my favorite out of all of Fenna's heroines. She's smart AND sassy. Not that any of her sister's aren't, but she was clearly the baby of the family and used to getting her way but not as a spoiled brat. I loved the storyline of her volunteering in the dispensary, and Leigh coming to volunteer also instead of sending her courting gifts was a delight. I'm sorry to see this series end, but that just means a new fantastic set of books from Fenna will be on the horizon!
March 29, 2023
I enjoyed this 3rd book in the series, but not as much as the first three. It left me with lots of questions and I feel like it needed at least another chapter or two to wrap up other storylines that the writer included to enhance the initial plot.
I did love that the H/h were not your typical "Ton" characters. Marigold wasn't the thin, tall, beautiful debutante. Leigh wasn't the tall, dark and handsome typical Lord. Good storyline, but for a reader just picking up this book they needed additional backstory on the missing parents, siblings marriages on both sides.
I'd love a full story on Bryce and Carlotta.
I received an ARC of this story and it in no way affected my honest review.
I did love that the H/h were not your typical "Ton" characters. Marigold wasn't the thin, tall, beautiful debutante. Leigh wasn't the tall, dark and handsome typical Lord. Good storyline, but for a reader just picking up this book they needed additional backstory on the missing parents, siblings marriages on both sides.
I'd love a full story on Bryce and Carlotta.
I received an ARC of this story and it in no way affected my honest review.
March 21, 2023
Fenna delivers again! We have a fierce, independent, curvy main character. She knows what she wants, mostly. Then we have the dashing Lord Leigh, youngest sibling and black sheep of the Blakeley family. He also knows what he wants, mostly. Oh and he's also absolutely brimming with secrets. We see all our favorite characters, some exciting locations, and lots of sassy female voices.
I love that her stories always give the same thing: spunky women, nail-biting drama, a little blood and actions, followed by some HEA. Perfection.
I love that her stories always give the same thing: spunky women, nail-biting drama, a little blood and actions, followed by some HEA. Perfection.
March 23, 2023
I would like to thank Wolf Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I love the uniqueness of this series, and this book is a nice rounding off with all the siblings in both families married.
I love the uniqueness of this series, and this book is a nice rounding off with all the siblings in both families married.
March 25, 2023
I didn’t expect anything less than a book that will be full of fun filled drama, it’s all encapsulated in one word, DRAMA!!!!!!!! After that more drama in a very good way too.
October 6, 2023
5 STARS, REGENCY ENTANGLEMENT, DRAMA
5 STARS for Book 3 of the Series Blekeley Manor by Fenna Edgewood. Terrific BLURB available. Exciting & interesting storyline about the prodigal son of a family, also the youngest son and the friendship turned romance by the youngest of another family of 4, who had all other 3 had wed recently. The funny thing is their siblings had married each other, going on Marigolds brother the 1st married had been the groom to Leech's sister. Just think she had all of the Ton to find a husband, but found him with her horses. Yet, that is Book 1 & this is #3.
Marigolds promised her sister she would go and have one season. Although she had her heart on going to the 7 dials hospital & volunteering to learn , she wanted to be able to be of service.
Leigh, had been on a secret mission with his Uncle & just one more thing to do & he could come clean to what he had been doing these last 4 years or so. He could tell Dare, his brother the Duke & his sisters, too. In the meantime he promised to take care of Marigold & accompany her to parties around society. He finds he doesn't like other men dancing with her and looking at her beautiful bountiful breast. He starts objecting to who not only dances with, but who visits & gives marriage proposals.
He has to face the fact he is in love and it is a beautiful awakening when he does. How he tells her. Every woman would love to hear that. Great storyline with some great characters.
WARNING: EXPLICIT SEXUAL ACTIVITY
RECOMMEND
Marigold & Leigh
5 STARS for Book 3 of the Series Blekeley Manor by Fenna Edgewood. Terrific BLURB available. Exciting & interesting storyline about the prodigal son of a family, also the youngest son and the friendship turned romance by the youngest of another family of 4, who had all other 3 had wed recently. The funny thing is their siblings had married each other, going on Marigolds brother the 1st married had been the groom to Leech's sister. Just think she had all of the Ton to find a husband, but found him with her horses. Yet, that is Book 1 & this is #3.
Marigolds promised her sister she would go and have one season. Although she had her heart on going to the 7 dials hospital & volunteering to learn , she wanted to be able to be of service.
Leigh, had been on a secret mission with his Uncle & just one more thing to do & he could come clean to what he had been doing these last 4 years or so. He could tell Dare, his brother the Duke & his sisters, too. In the meantime he promised to take care of Marigold & accompany her to parties around society. He finds he doesn't like other men dancing with her and looking at her beautiful bountiful breast. He starts objecting to who not only dances with, but who visits & gives marriage proposals.
He has to face the fact he is in love and it is a beautiful awakening when he does. How he tells her. Every woman would love to hear that. Great storyline with some great characters.
WARNING: EXPLICIT SEXUAL ACTIVITY
RECOMMEND
Marigold & Leigh
February 20, 2025
“My So-Called Scoundrel” is book four in Fenna Edgewood’s series Blakeley Manor. Absentee brother Leigh Blakeley returns home wounded and ends up passed out on Marigold Spencer’s bed. Interesting beginning to their relationship. Leigh is coerced into escorting Marigold during her unwanted London season. Marigold doesn’t want a husband, she wants to be useful and she is eager to learn. Leigh and Marigold cannot fight their mutual attraction as Leigh slowly introduces Marigold to pleasure. Meanwhile, Marigold looks to her future while Leigh tries to reconcile the past as this series finale wraps up with the love lives of the Blakeleys and the Spencers. I enjoyed this story about Marigold Spencer and Leigh Blakeley. Marigold was not the typical debutante. She was short, curvy, and well endowed. She was also smart and wanted to do more than dance at balls and become a society wife. Leigh was also an interesting character, there was much more to him than his reputation as a rake. Strong secondary characters. Open door intimacy written for a mature audience. Fits well into the series. Definitely recommended.
May 7, 2023
Quite Enjoyable!
To begin with, for Marigold and Leigh to find their happy every after seemed almost impossible. She came from the working class and her claim to fame was that her sister married a Duke and Leigh was brother to that Duke.
She is given the opportunity to come out and the story takes off from there. It was a rather nice one one too with such interesting characters.
I loved the way they met. It was so unusual and most unexpected.
There was the mystery of what happened to his parents to solve, some quite nasty characters and also some very pleasant ones too, but the two main ones and their exciting adventure were the best of all of them.
I need to get my hands on some of the other books in this series as the background to it is quite intriguing and appeals to me.
To begin with, for Marigold and Leigh to find their happy every after seemed almost impossible. She came from the working class and her claim to fame was that her sister married a Duke and Leigh was brother to that Duke.
She is given the opportunity to come out and the story takes off from there. It was a rather nice one one too with such interesting characters.
I loved the way they met. It was so unusual and most unexpected.
There was the mystery of what happened to his parents to solve, some quite nasty characters and also some very pleasant ones too, but the two main ones and their exciting adventure were the best of all of them.
I need to get my hands on some of the other books in this series as the background to it is quite intriguing and appeals to me.
March 17, 2025
The conclusion of the series which for me started in a fairly mediocre fashion and then got much better through books 2 & 3. Here any loose ends from the background story are dealt with along with the romance between Marigold and Leigh. These are a decent pair and I particularly liked the way Marigold developed as the story went on. There is humour along with the erotic and dramatic elements, which was very welcome, however it lacked a character like Cassie from book 3 to take it up the final notch.
June 5, 2023
Marigold Spencer has an overwhelming desire to help others , she may be persuaded to compromise.
Lord Leigh Blakely has been absent from his family for years. They believe he is a rake, selfishly pursuing his own pleasure. They couldn't be more wrong. What might happen when this prodigal son returns? How might he complete his final assignment? Will this rake be persuaded towards a different path? Will he travel it alone? You'll see. Enjoy!
Lord Leigh Blakely has been absent from his family for years. They believe he is a rake, selfishly pursuing his own pleasure. They couldn't be more wrong. What might happen when this prodigal son returns? How might he complete his final assignment? Will this rake be persuaded towards a different path? Will he travel it alone? You'll see. Enjoy!
May 4, 2023
Excellent.
This book 3 of the Blakeley Manor series is the fourth book in the series, there is a prelude that sets the foundation for the series.
All extremely excellent novels IMHO.
This book 3 of the Blakeley Manor series is the fourth book in the series, there is a prelude that sets the foundation for the series.
All extremely excellent novels IMHO.
August 28, 2023
A nice book with some steam….recommend.
October 12, 2023
4 stars.
Not as good as the first book, but I liked it more than the second. Good series ending… though it would’ve been good to learn how Carlotta and Miss Peel faired in the end.
Not as good as the first book, but I liked it more than the second. Good series ending… though it would’ve been good to learn how Carlotta and Miss Peel faired in the end.
September 13, 2024
Great read!
This was an excellent way to end the Blakeley Manor series! Excellent storyline, most memorable characters and an outstanding author.
This was an excellent way to end the Blakeley Manor series! Excellent storyline, most memorable characters and an outstanding author.
March 29, 2023
Delightful way to end the series
Marigold and Leigh are the last singles in their respective sibling groups, with each of their other siblings paired off together, so it seems predestined that these two would end up together. Unless they have anything to say about it. Marigold is far too down-to-earth for a renown rake like Leigh. She doesn't even want to have a Season, much less one chaperoned by a man with his reputation. But her sister's in the family way so Marigold is reluctant to refuse her anything, so off they go to see about finding Marigold a husband.
I really loved the way Marigold is portrayed. While she certainly has the connections for a Season, she has had the upbringing of one in the working class and she has no intentions of leaving that life behind. She's dedicated to helping others, and I loved that she found her way to Maggie's dispensary and found a greater purpose in her life.
Leigh has no interest in settling down at all, much less with a young woman who'd rather build a career than marry into the aristocracy. But as his friends start showing interest in his lively and beautiful companion, he is suddenly confronted with feelings of jealousy that he has no idea what to do with. Until he finds himself making a counter offer and, more to his surprise, finds that he means it.
I really enjoyed getting the full story of what happened to the Blakeley siblings' parents, and I was very satisfied with how that storyline was concluded. I loved that Marigold had a strong sense of her own worth, especially dealing with the "mean girls" of the ton. I enjoyed the slow build-up of their respect and love for each other, especially with how far Leigh was willing to go to prove himself to her. I also was happy to see some closure for Caleb Bryce and Carlotta, and appreciated how their storyline was used to address an important issue for women's rights.
The only thing I didn't like is that the author seems to have no respect for her own timeline. As with the previous book in this series, their are glaring timeline discrepancies that can only be overlooked by someone who is only reading one of the books in the series. Since there are multiple storylines that overlap two or more books, that kind of oversight is difficult to ignore.
Still, if you've read any of the other books, you'll want to read this one to see how everything is wrapped up. The writing is overall very good, and the characters are charming and realistic. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Marigold and Leigh are the last singles in their respective sibling groups, with each of their other siblings paired off together, so it seems predestined that these two would end up together. Unless they have anything to say about it. Marigold is far too down-to-earth for a renown rake like Leigh. She doesn't even want to have a Season, much less one chaperoned by a man with his reputation. But her sister's in the family way so Marigold is reluctant to refuse her anything, so off they go to see about finding Marigold a husband.
I really loved the way Marigold is portrayed. While she certainly has the connections for a Season, she has had the upbringing of one in the working class and she has no intentions of leaving that life behind. She's dedicated to helping others, and I loved that she found her way to Maggie's dispensary and found a greater purpose in her life.
Leigh has no interest in settling down at all, much less with a young woman who'd rather build a career than marry into the aristocracy. But as his friends start showing interest in his lively and beautiful companion, he is suddenly confronted with feelings of jealousy that he has no idea what to do with. Until he finds himself making a counter offer and, more to his surprise, finds that he means it.
I really enjoyed getting the full story of what happened to the Blakeley siblings' parents, and I was very satisfied with how that storyline was concluded. I loved that Marigold had a strong sense of her own worth, especially dealing with the "mean girls" of the ton. I enjoyed the slow build-up of their respect and love for each other, especially with how far Leigh was willing to go to prove himself to her. I also was happy to see some closure for Caleb Bryce and Carlotta, and appreciated how their storyline was used to address an important issue for women's rights.
The only thing I didn't like is that the author seems to have no respect for her own timeline. As with the previous book in this series, their are glaring timeline discrepancies that can only be overlooked by someone who is only reading one of the books in the series. Since there are multiple storylines that overlap two or more books, that kind of oversight is difficult to ignore.
Still, if you've read any of the other books, you'll want to read this one to see how everything is wrapped up. The writing is overall very good, and the characters are charming and realistic. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 25, 2023
I received an ARC of this book; the review contains only my own thoughts and opinions.
This is the first book of this series I’ve read, so I wasn’t familiar with the backstory. Like many historical romance novels, though, the book works fine as a stand-alone. The context from the previous novels is explained in the beginning in a fairly natural and unobstrusive way.
For the most part, this was a really fun read. It definitely hints at tropes like a marriage of convenience/forced proximity, a hint of forbidden romance (which should have been more than a hint—why does every pair in this series have to marry their brother/sister in law?!), bit of a reformed rake/masters of disguise, and of course, the unmarriageable woman. I will say, though, that it doesn’t lean into any one of them too hard, and there is enough divergence to make the story feel a little fresh. There is some light drama and suspense but for a book with multiple stabbing, it was actually pretty light and feel-good. Dialogue was well-written and natural, and the spice level was probably around medium (not the central focus but definitely there).
If I was going to quibble with anything, it’d be these two points: first, while I appreciate and enjoy the body-type representation in the female MC, there is a little more focus on her weight than I’d ideally like. It’s a fine line between establishing a body type and pointing out how the FMC is larger, heavier, curvier, more voluptuous, etc etc in every character’s mind and thoughts. For the most part, the text stays on the right side but it sometimes veers a little too far into her weight being her defining characteristic.
Second, the “technically not incest” thing. Apparently that’s the whole theme of the series, but for me, the “technically” is doing a little too much work. It’s giving sweet home Alabama. I don’t want to have to pull out a family tree just to make sure I am not icked out by a couple. Can you imagine the next generation of this family?! Every child’s cousin is going to be genetically as close as a sibling. It’s weird.
So, while I can never give a book that I have to have a, “well, they aren’t technically related, they are just siblings-in-LAW” disclaimer 5 stars, I did find this a fresh take on regency and quite enjoyable. I’ll probably pick up some of the earlier books in this series—even if they are all siblings.
This is the first book of this series I’ve read, so I wasn’t familiar with the backstory. Like many historical romance novels, though, the book works fine as a stand-alone. The context from the previous novels is explained in the beginning in a fairly natural and unobstrusive way.
For the most part, this was a really fun read. It definitely hints at tropes like a marriage of convenience/forced proximity, a hint of forbidden romance (which should have been more than a hint—why does every pair in this series have to marry their brother/sister in law?!), bit of a reformed rake/masters of disguise, and of course, the unmarriageable woman. I will say, though, that it doesn’t lean into any one of them too hard, and there is enough divergence to make the story feel a little fresh. There is some light drama and suspense but for a book with multiple stabbing, it was actually pretty light and feel-good. Dialogue was well-written and natural, and the spice level was probably around medium (not the central focus but definitely there).
If I was going to quibble with anything, it’d be these two points: first, while I appreciate and enjoy the body-type representation in the female MC, there is a little more focus on her weight than I’d ideally like. It’s a fine line between establishing a body type and pointing out how the FMC is larger, heavier, curvier, more voluptuous, etc etc in every character’s mind and thoughts. For the most part, the text stays on the right side but it sometimes veers a little too far into her weight being her defining characteristic.
Second, the “technically not incest” thing. Apparently that’s the whole theme of the series, but for me, the “technically” is doing a little too much work. It’s giving sweet home Alabama. I don’t want to have to pull out a family tree just to make sure I am not icked out by a couple. Can you imagine the next generation of this family?! Every child’s cousin is going to be genetically as close as a sibling. It’s weird.
So, while I can never give a book that I have to have a, “well, they aren’t technically related, they are just siblings-in-LAW” disclaimer 5 stars, I did find this a fresh take on regency and quite enjoyable. I’ll probably pick up some of the earlier books in this series—even if they are all siblings.
April 7, 2023
This was my first book in this series, and I had no trouble getting into the story. We have Marigold an ex-housemaid now turned debutante due to her sister also an ex-housekeeper marring the duke. Oh, my seems her family all married above themselves. Marigold never thought to have a season or be called a Lady. She is shorter than most and plump and with many curves, big busted too. A man's dream but she gets spoken to too badly and unfairly by the other young society Ladies. Marigold doesn’t even want a season or to marry, but with her brother in-law, Dare giving her a much to large dowry she is drawing lots of attraction from the wrong kinds of men. She meets her missing brother-in law in the most unfortunate way. He climbs in her bedroom window, passes out on the foot of her bed cut and bleeding. What most young Ladies would do is scream down the house but being a very intelligence, helpful person who would love to study medicine she tends to him. Cleaning and bandaging his wound. Leigh is the underdog of the family known as a rake and scoundrel. He is shocked to find himself in the wrong room, half naked and with his new sister-in-law! He may have just ruined her reputation before even knowing her name. When this event comes to light of her sister, his brother and grandmother he finds himself her new escort for the season. I don’t know who more surprised Marigold or Leigh was. As they spent time together, both found out secrets of each other. Neither is what they seem, and both have desires and plans. When an even bigger rake and scoundrel than him sets his sights on Marigold, Leigh steps in to show her what passion is all about and what she would be missing in a marriage of convenience. There is a lot going on behind the scenes in this story. Where does Leigh disappear to and what are he and his uncle up to? Why is Marigold going to a really bad area of town with the blessing of Lady Fulford? How does the nastiest, stuck-up couple of Debutantes end up needing Marigold help? This is a fast-moving story with lots of ups and downs, tons of steam and learning what is really dear to a person after all. This is a book not to be missed. I really need to read the rest of this series. If all the books are this good. I received an ARC and want to thank the author. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
March 30, 2023
Immeasurably fun, boldly witty & deeply touching!
The perfect way to round off a series packed with heart, a slap of bittersweet reality and romance charged adventure. All wrapped up in an engaging, witty and fascinating, joy infused style of writing that not only makes you laugh, but touches you deeply, flows beautifully and really makes you care for the characters depicted.
Leigh and Marigold are that fascinating breed of character that are so much more than they first appear; where the enjoyment and intrigue is in the peeling back of each multifaceted layer. So full of substance, wit, a shot of unpredictability and fallibility, yet with an integral core of kindness that underpins who they truly are.
Leigh the epitome of a good-time Charlie -appearing altogether too certain of himself- hides a wealth of pain, insecurity, substance and devotion beneath a carefree facade, charismatic allure and smooth humour, where you can't help but want to unpick his dark secrets.
Marigold caught between two worlds as the exhousemaid come sister of a duke is no where near the unlucky, awkward and plain lady the ton would lead you to believe. She has this radiance that shines through; a vivacious spirit that is smart, resourceful, refreshingly honest and purpose driven.
Together they light up whichever room they spar in that I found myself eagerly hunting their next sparking clinch and duel of effortlessly witty banter that glowed with a warmth and connection that was both hilarious and deeply moving. That by the end of their first meet I couldn't stop smiling and was indeed irrevocably hooked, reeled in and thoroughly eager to be taken on their journey. They are just so damn likeable!
With an injection of darkness, bitterness and a few harsh realities, that so captivatingly highlights the joys, love, loyalty and encompassing push and pull dynamics of the Blakeley-Spencer extended family, it took no effort to become seemlessly entangled in the emotional ebbs and witty flows of Marigold and Leigh's tale.
A quick paced, endearingly good fun misadventure, with a delicious slice of character building steam and growth that rounds of a most enjoyably entertaining series; all round highly recommended!
The perfect way to round off a series packed with heart, a slap of bittersweet reality and romance charged adventure. All wrapped up in an engaging, witty and fascinating, joy infused style of writing that not only makes you laugh, but touches you deeply, flows beautifully and really makes you care for the characters depicted.
Leigh and Marigold are that fascinating breed of character that are so much more than they first appear; where the enjoyment and intrigue is in the peeling back of each multifaceted layer. So full of substance, wit, a shot of unpredictability and fallibility, yet with an integral core of kindness that underpins who they truly are.
Leigh the epitome of a good-time Charlie -appearing altogether too certain of himself- hides a wealth of pain, insecurity, substance and devotion beneath a carefree facade, charismatic allure and smooth humour, where you can't help but want to unpick his dark secrets.
Marigold caught between two worlds as the exhousemaid come sister of a duke is no where near the unlucky, awkward and plain lady the ton would lead you to believe. She has this radiance that shines through; a vivacious spirit that is smart, resourceful, refreshingly honest and purpose driven.
Together they light up whichever room they spar in that I found myself eagerly hunting their next sparking clinch and duel of effortlessly witty banter that glowed with a warmth and connection that was both hilarious and deeply moving. That by the end of their first meet I couldn't stop smiling and was indeed irrevocably hooked, reeled in and thoroughly eager to be taken on their journey. They are just so damn likeable!
With an injection of darkness, bitterness and a few harsh realities, that so captivatingly highlights the joys, love, loyalty and encompassing push and pull dynamics of the Blakeley-Spencer extended family, it took no effort to become seemlessly entangled in the emotional ebbs and witty flows of Marigold and Leigh's tale.
A quick paced, endearingly good fun misadventure, with a delicious slice of character building steam and growth that rounds of a most enjoyably entertaining series; all round highly recommended!
April 10, 2023
The newest book, My So Called Scoundrel, in the Blakely Manor Series introduces the reader to the youngest son of the family, Lord Leigh Blakey whose absence has been commented on in previous books with unanswered questions hovering in the air when the family references him. Leigh is perceived as a selfish but charming rake of a man who avoids family obligation by living it up all over the Continent and England.
At the beginning of our book he literally tumbles into an unusual friendship with the Spencer family's youngest daughter Marigold. At their first meeting, Leigh admires Marigold's obvious abundant charms but soon finds that he is intrigued by her quick intelligence, challenged by her inability to take everything a face value and humbled by her desire to be of use in the world.
In a unexpected turn, Leigh finds himself chaperoning Marigold in her first Season and becoming sympathetic, with help from a few heated points unscored by Marigold, to all a young women must endured to find a suitor. As the book progresses, we see that Leigh is not like the man that society and his family see him to be. He completely loves his family and is secretly involved in a mystery introduced in previous books.
I adored the characters of Marigold and Leigh and especially appreciated the relationship that developed between the two. One is seen as flawed and unacceptable and the other as charmingly desirable in the eyes of Ton. Fenna Edgewood takes us through the stages of discovery as Marigold and Leigh uncover their deepest characters revealing their insecurities and fears.
My So Called Scoundrel has so many unexpected twist and turns that I had a difficult time putting it down. I would recommend that it be read in series order as each book builds on the previous. I am a big fan of Fenna Edgewood's writing having read many of her previous published titles!
I believe that My So Called Scoundrel is a gem and should not be overlooked!
I received an ARC from NetGalley. I voluntarily read it and my opinions are my own
At the beginning of our book he literally tumbles into an unusual friendship with the Spencer family's youngest daughter Marigold. At their first meeting, Leigh admires Marigold's obvious abundant charms but soon finds that he is intrigued by her quick intelligence, challenged by her inability to take everything a face value and humbled by her desire to be of use in the world.
In a unexpected turn, Leigh finds himself chaperoning Marigold in her first Season and becoming sympathetic, with help from a few heated points unscored by Marigold, to all a young women must endured to find a suitor. As the book progresses, we see that Leigh is not like the man that society and his family see him to be. He completely loves his family and is secretly involved in a mystery introduced in previous books.
I adored the characters of Marigold and Leigh and especially appreciated the relationship that developed between the two. One is seen as flawed and unacceptable and the other as charmingly desirable in the eyes of Ton. Fenna Edgewood takes us through the stages of discovery as Marigold and Leigh uncover their deepest characters revealing their insecurities and fears.
My So Called Scoundrel has so many unexpected twist and turns that I had a difficult time putting it down. I would recommend that it be read in series order as each book builds on the previous. I am a big fan of Fenna Edgewood's writing having read many of her previous published titles!
I believe that My So Called Scoundrel is a gem and should not be overlooked!
I received an ARC from NetGalley. I voluntarily read it and my opinions are my own
March 25, 2023
The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Marigold Spencer…sister to the Duchess of Dareford, soon to make her come-out, finds a wounded stranger in her bed. Leigh Blakeley…younger brother to Duke of Dareford, a rake, the black sheep of the family. Ok already there is mystery and suspense. Oh dear the h made a rash decision but I don’t think she will like the consequences. Nope things did not work out the way the h thought. The H has taken on a role that he never thought to find himself in, and he was neatly put there courtesy of the h. The H has more going on than initially portrayed. The h has catty competition on the Marriage Mart. I feel like some of the side characters are familiar to me from another series, I shall read on and determine if it is true. Oh now I understand some of what the H is dealing with. The H has competition for the attention of the h. LOL, the H is so jealous that he is imagining all kinds of wicked things. The need to win is in the blood of the H. The h has a big decision to make and soon. For someone everyone underestimates, the h has a pretty sharpe mind. Oh the h is wickedly polite when gives a set down to nemesis. I’m going to make a prediction that the suitor of the h will be the lost love of her nemesis. The H has taken his declaration seriously and set out on a unique campaign to win the h. The H has a dangerous task to perform but the h does not know. Well it seems the H had an unlikely ally who did him a tremendous favor. This book is part of the Blakeley Manor Series (Book 3). Even though this is part of a series, you don’t have to read the others before reading it. I liked both of the MCs because both were individuals that had their own personality that seem to perfectly compliment the other. There is adult language and steam. Oh yes, my prediction was incorrect.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed Fenna Edgewood’s Blakely Manor series and her latest book was just as delightful. This story involved Marigold, Laurel the Duchess of Dareford’s younger sister and Lord Leigh, the Duke’s younger brother. Marigold has never wanted to marry, has only wanted to care for the poor and underprivileged. Unfortunately, she is being pushed into the marriage mart and the girls of the ton are doing what they do best with someone who doesn’t quite fit in – being cruel and catty. Lord Leigh has the reputation of being a rake; for the most part, this is only a façade. His true character is much deeper, and he must hide it for personal reasons.
With Lord Leigh in the role of Marigold’s chaperone, they are quickly drawn to one another. Marigold is smart, spunky, bold, speaks her mind, and is not afraid of going after what she wants. Leigh is generous and caring yet continues to guard his secrets and as much as he does not want to marry, he does not want anyone else marrying Marigold. How dare they even get close to her?!? Is he willing to propose to keep others away? These two people bring out the best of each other – they accept each other for what and who they are and show the other they are enough exactly as they are.
This story is so well-written, and full of humor, jealously, intrigue, danger, witty, humorous banter, amazing chemistry, and family love. Fenna Edgewood’s loveable characters grab your attention from the beginning and the drama keeps you on the edge of your seat. Hold on for another fantastic ride with the Blakely and Spencer families. I hope there are spin-offs with a few secondary characters from this book. There are a few who are definitely worthy of their own stories. Thank you to Ms. Edgewood, Wolf Publishing, and NetGalley for an Advanced Reader Copy. I voluntarily read the book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
With Lord Leigh in the role of Marigold’s chaperone, they are quickly drawn to one another. Marigold is smart, spunky, bold, speaks her mind, and is not afraid of going after what she wants. Leigh is generous and caring yet continues to guard his secrets and as much as he does not want to marry, he does not want anyone else marrying Marigold. How dare they even get close to her?!? Is he willing to propose to keep others away? These two people bring out the best of each other – they accept each other for what and who they are and show the other they are enough exactly as they are.
This story is so well-written, and full of humor, jealously, intrigue, danger, witty, humorous banter, amazing chemistry, and family love. Fenna Edgewood’s loveable characters grab your attention from the beginning and the drama keeps you on the edge of your seat. Hold on for another fantastic ride with the Blakely and Spencer families. I hope there are spin-offs with a few secondary characters from this book. There are a few who are definitely worthy of their own stories. Thank you to Ms. Edgewood, Wolf Publishing, and NetGalley for an Advanced Reader Copy. I voluntarily read the book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews