The Rake and the Muse

Unlikely Betrothal #2

by Christina Diane

She dreams of freedom. He hides behind a mask. Together, they ignite a passion that could inspire—or destroy—them both.

Juliet

Lady Juliet Lane knows what she wants: to share her art with the world and live life on her own terms. Marriage? Not in the cards. But her carefully sketched plans unravel when she meets Theo, the Marquess of Camden. With his sinful smirk and a passion for art as fierce as her own, Theo tempts her into a world of secrets and seduction she never imagined.

Theo

To society, Theo Camden is the perfect rake—all charm and wicked grins. But behind closed doors, he hides a secret: his devotion to art. When Juliet enters his life, she’s more than just another beauty. She’s his muse, his masterpiece—and the greatest risk he’s ever faced. As much as Theo yearns for her, the weight of duty and reputation looms over their fiery connection.

Two artists. One scandalous love affair. A temptation too intriguing to resist.

Their passion is a masterpiece in the making, but desire comes at a price. Can they defy society’s expectations and create a future together, or will ambition and duty tear them apart?


Note: This is a spicy novella with 5+ explicit scenes and a guaranteed HEA! Content warnings can be found on author's website.

Tropes: Curvy FMC, Reforming the Rake, Motivated Heroine, Secret Passions, Deathbed Promise, House Party

Unlikely Betrothal Series: Each novella is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order and read in Kindle Unlimited!
Book 1: The Earl and the Vixen
Book 2: The Rake and the Muse
Book 3: The Marquess and the Earl
Book 4: The Viscount and the Wallflower
Book 5: The Duke and the Widow

Genres: Amazon, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Novella

195 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 29, 2024

About the author

Christina Diane writes Regency romances that are fast-paced, high-heat love stories where the banter bites and the bad boys never behave. An international bestselling author, Christina blends historical settings with modern a modern flair, crafting irresistible tales of spirited heroines, forbidden liaisons, and brooding alphas who’d ruin your reputation and your bedsheets.

If you crave scandal, seduction, and a dash of emotional darkness…welcome to your new obsession.

Reviews

[Sophie Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a huge struggle rating books sometimes because I have 5 ⭐️ reads that are absolutely mind-blowing to me personally, yet... there are others that I want to give 5⭐️ simply because they made me happy while reading. Vibes, you know?

I needed something to distract me from my head, and this honestly delivered better than my main reads. though I love those, too. Lol.

This was cute and easy. And while it moved fast, it was a novella... set in a season of historical England. Marriages tended to move fast during those times in high society, so it doesn't bother me in these reads.

Theo was quite the charmer lol

He proposed to her by sketching her in a wedding dress and like... where is that effort in real life?

I mean, not in my life... my husband made me a ring out of guitar strings 😂

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just started reading this author. This is only my 3rd book by her. I saw her book when I was downloading another new author and also ran across her on a FB takeover in one of my steamy book groups. She says she is spicy. Book 1 was super short so would like to read a bit more.

This book was almost 200 pgs but it read really fast. I enjoyed reading about Juliet and Theo. They seemed like a super cute couple. This was an easy read. No espinoge, spies, exes drama, etc. but it was a nice fun HEA read. Her stories don't have a ton of depth but she gives just enough so you feel you know the characters and a bit of their personalities and therefore it ends up a good read.

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rake and the Muse by Christina Diane is a fast-paced and beautifully written love story set during the regency era. Theo and Juliet were likable from the start, and I loved their banter! The steamy scenes were perfect, and I felt the level of spice fit the story and the characters well. It was lovely to read about Juliet and Theo supporting each other's passions and talents while simultaneously falling in love. I would recommend this wonderful story to Bridgerton fans as well as anyone seeking a quick, sweet, and steamy read!

[Imromanticallyinvolved · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series that I loved just as much as the first, if not more. This story focuses on Theo and Juliet who at first appear to have nothing in common besides their immediate attraction.

Theo is a well known Rake trying to accept his new role as a Marquess after the death of his older brother. He resents his new title as it takes time away from his true passion - drawing. Scandalous drawings, in fact, not the kind you would show to polite society. While keeping up appearances at the house party he's attending, he sets his sights on a new muse with curves in all the right places that he couldn't wait to sketch.

Juliet has no time or desire to play the games at a house party or any other place. She'd rather be in a well lit room painting and dreaming about opening her own gallery where her works and those of other women can be displayed without censure. Forced to associate with those that would shun her pursuits (and probably wouldn't recognize her from the neck up) she's wary when Theo strikes up a conversation believing he's just like the others.

With only a little persuasion, and what might be the chance of a lifetime, Juliet agrees to an affair. To their surprise, their immediate attraction leads to finding out they have much in common. During their time together, deep connections are made, feelings are felt, and they start to wonder if they're not both pursuing the same dream.

I enjoyed both of these characters and how well they fit together in all of their wants, needs and desires. I love when characters start out as a fling but quickly evolve into an ever after. I loved the way they truly wanted to understand each other and chose to communicate when problems arise. And one more thing that I loved was his proposal. It is so sweet!

Another well written, fast paced story that kept my interest the entire time. Endearing characters with a great relationship in and out of the bedroom. Putting aside their fears and welcoming each other into their hearts will always be these two artists best work!

I received an early copy directly from the author (Thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Spice: 🌶🌶

Tropes:
Curvy FMC
Rakish MMC
House Party
Artists
Virgin FMC

The Rake and the Muse is a cute spicy novella. Set at the same house party as book 1 (The Earl and the Vixen), this story focuses on Lady Juliet and Lord Theo. After her friend leaves the party early to get married, Juliet has decided to enjoy her remaining time at the country party. Her desires in life aren't to find a husband. But rather to spend her days painting and one day open an art gallery.

Theo, the local Rake, has no desire to marry either. However, he promised his brother on his deathbed that he would. Theo is also an artist but Lady Juliet has caught his eye and might be the Muse he was longing for.

I liked that this story picks up at the same cou try house party! It was cute and fun. I loved Juliet and I'm impressed that she knew her worth and didn't back down. You go girl!!! Theo is sweet with her and I loved their interactions together. A jealous Rake is my favorite!

[BookishMya · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is nothing more enjoyable than seeing a rake surrender except of course, seeing him fall first. Theo is a tad resentful of his place in life, having to set aside his love of drawing to take up the mantel of Marquess. Finding shared interests in Juliet with her love of painting gives them a great starting point. Sharing passions equally builds their connection at a lovely rate and seeing them try to navigate the house party without upset is quite the wild ride. I loved their connection meeting together in mind, body & spirit. Christina Diane deftly weaves a story of interest, drawing you in with simple hooks that capture you completely. When I wasn’t lost in the story, I was revelling in the memory. A truly enjoyable tale.

[Albi (albireadingromance) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rake and the Muse by Christina Diane

Setting:
England 1814

Characters:
Juliet
Theo

Tropes:
Spicy Historical
Spicy slow burn, ish
Artist model
Rake v!rg!n

Goodreads:
5 🌟

Spice:
2.5 heat 🔥

Review:
Loved this spicy novella from Christina Diane. The artist muse trope is always an enjoyable one, thank you, Titanic.

Content Warnings:
Body shaming from other women

[Florence Bliss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just loving this series. The Rake and the Muse is set in the same house party as the previous title but a new couple takes center stage. The couple dynamic is completely different, but this story is just as spicy and satisfying as the first!

Theo and Juliet are instantly attracted to one another when they meet at the house party, but though the attraction knocks them both off their feet, the most intriguing secret they discover is what they have in common. Innocent Juliet is wary of Theo's rakish reputation, but can't help but let him get closer, just as Theo realizes that there is more to the striking Juliet than just her beauty.

I loved this story because, though it is a romance and the spicy relationship arc is the forefront, it is also about people who are able to find someone who helps inspire their talents and dreams. In addition, I love the layering of the stories (between the first book in the series and now this one). I get the feeling that each book in this series is giving us hints about what is coming in fun, intriguing ways.

I'm so excited I got to read and ARC copy of this story and I am so looking forward to more!

[Sherley's Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 4.25 / 5.0
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥: 3.0 🌶️🌶️🌶️

“𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒓𝒖𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”

What you see on the cover is just the beginning…these two gets it in! Spicy Spicy Spicy! Christina Diane knows how to bring the heat. This was a cute story and a quick read. I so enjoyed Jules and Theo’s story. I loved that they had so much in common, especially when it came to their art and their future desires. These two were made for one another. What starts off as two individuals who are set on never getting married and simply enjoying each other, leads to so much more! Another great one by Ms. Diane! After reading the sneak-peek to Nate and George’s story I cannot wait to read The Marquess and the Earl!

🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅴🆇🅿🅴🅲🆃
❤️Lust at First Sight
🌹He Falls First
❤️Virgin FMC
🌹Curvy FMC
❤️Secret Passions
🌹Reforming the Rake
❤️Spicy Spicy Spicy

⬇️ THERE MAY BE SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴🆂
❤️“He glanced down at her, and his heart nearly leapt from his chest. She was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.”
🌹“You are better than the sweetest honey.”
❤️“He was playing with the hottest of fires and he merely spread his arms and walked head first into the flames.”
🌹 “Marriage is forever. That seems an awfully long time to be shackled to someone you don’t wish to be.”
❤️“I believe you have ruined me, and I shall never get enough of you.”

[The_neurospicy_bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. This series seems to be all happening at the same time, so it appears as though this is going to add up to a multi POV story separated into manageable parts. It is the second book in the series and I fell in love with the MC's story just as much as the last one. I love the fact the author is allowing us the chance to fall in love with all of the characters and giving each one their chance to shine. I loved Juliet in the last book so getting to learn more about her and her story was just amazing. I absolutely love the author's writing style and the way the author uses language to depict the characters thoughts and feelings towards each other is just beautiful. Like with the last book gets spicy and if you read books for the spice, then you won't be disappointed. The relationship that forms between the MCs is so wholesome and your heart feels so full when seeing the relationship blossom. There is also another character that has been introduced that I am hoping is going to be one of the characters who gets her chance to shine. She seems such an amazing woman that I am really crossing my fingers that she is going to get her chance at the spotlight. Another amazing novella from the author and I look forward to reading the next one.

[Michelle Connolly · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really appreciated the author's note to the readers at the beginning of the book stating how she doesn't focus on historical accuracy. This helped me jump into the book much more open minded. It still, however, left me feeling disappointed for very different reasons.
I feel bad giving this book a bad review, but I need to be honest.
To me, it had no substance, no plot, not much of anything actually other than sex and a bit of drama. Every little conflict was swiftly and easily brushed aside. The characters felt very flat and their development, if you can even call it that, came out of nowhere. There is no way you could convince me that these two had any idea of what love really is or that they actually felt it for each other.
I need my heart and brain to be stimulated and tickled when reading a book, not just other simpler parts of my anatomy, if you get my meaning.
I honestly think this author could do a lot better if she focused more on the plot, the conflict and the characters' development instead of focusing so much on the sex. But I think maybe this is just the kind of book she wants to write, and a lot of people seem to enjoy it, so perhaps she just isn't for me.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oooh. A nicely spicy Regency novella and it’s out today!

At a country house party, where readers of this genre know shenanigans are always afoot, Lady Juliet meets the dashing rake, Theo, Marquess of Camden. They have a mutual love for art and Theo has a great desire for Juliet’s luscious form.

Shenanigans do indeed come to pass and seriously, in a packed house party, how is there never anyone in the hallways? 😉

Okay, back to our beautiful couple. Juliet is unsure if she ever wants to be married because then she’s giving up any semblance of freedom she might have. Theo also is not ready for marriage. He’s acquired the marquessate upon his beloved brother’s death and is terrified he won’t be able to uphold the title as well as his brother.

Dear readers, you know they’ll figure it out, but while they do, enjoy their steamy explorations. The first scene where Theo enters her bedchamber is 🔥🔥🔥

I was given this eARC by the author @christinadianeauthor All thoughts are mine alone.

#romance #romancebooks #historicalromance #spicyromance #spicybooks #therakeandthemuse #christinadiane #arc

[requiemz.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ A fun palette cleanser.

Whatever will a young lady cast adrift upon the tonnish marriage mart do? Desired for her appearance by prospective beaus and envied by her contemporaries, Lady Juliet is having quite a disastrous season. Misunderstood and discontented with her lot in life, she dreams of more. Surely then, some time away at a country estate house party is precisely the break she needs— right?

Enter one of London’s most notorious rakes, the Marquess of Camden, whose hidden passions are more than an innocent Juliet is prepared for.
Oh and did I mention his lordship is an artist? Que some clandestine steamy boudoir drawing sessions between Theo and his muse and a whole lot of exploratory adventuring between the sheets— for research purposes, of course! *melts*

What a scandal… London will surely be aghast!
Book two is my favourite thus far in the Unlikely Bethrothed series by Christina Diane. I highly recommend it.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

2025 seems to be off to a steamy start and I have no complaints.

The Rake and the Muse is a standalone featuring another couple attending the Ockham’s house party. This was an enjoyable, short read full of spice and likeable characters. Theo and Jules both share a passion for the arts, but one has to keep his talent hidden while the other wants to showcase hers to the world. Jules was ahead of her time, never compromised on her dream and so confident in the bedroom despite being innocent. Theo was conflicted between his heart’s desires and his family’s responsibility, but like a mother to a flame Jules drew him in. Their chemistry was explosive and kept me turning page after page.

If you love historical romances or need something light after dark reads, then I’d high,y recommend this.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rake and the Muse by Christina Diane completely stole my heart! A solid 5 stars and 4 chillies for this swoon-worthy, steamy Regency romance. If you're a fan of Bridgerton (minus those TV tie-in covers, we don’t talk about those), this book is your next obsession.

This novella strikes the perfect balance of charm, clever dialogue, and fiery chemistry. The banter between the leads is delightful, the romance is deliciously swoony, and the spice? Let’s just say it delivers. Best of all, it’s a quick read—perfect for a cozy evening when you want to escape into something fun and flirty.

Historical romance lovers, do yourselves a favor and pick this one up!

All thoughts are entirely my own.

[Harp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cute and spicy story as the first one. I really enjoyed the whole rake falling in love trope.

I loved seeing Juliet again as I was very curious after reading about her in the first book. I loved how she didnt want to fit into society and its expectation of marriage to follow her dreams.

I loved that both the characters were artists and how it strengthened their relationship past pure attraction. But the attraction was ❤️‍🔥

The concept of this series is so interesting as it uses a house party for this grand initial attraction, instead of any other setting and I wonder is this will continue with the rest of the series.

Thank you so much to the author for an arc!

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love love LOVE! 😘

Fast-paced regency romance, full of steam and spice and all things nice 🔥🌶️🥵

This is the second book in the 'Unlikely Betrothal' series, and follows Juliet and Theo, both of who we met in the first book.
It is Beautifully written, and sucked me in so bad that I ploughed through it in a matter of hours!

I love the dynamic between the characters, but I'm a sucker for a rake who finally finds his love!

I really love how this series intertwines with each other, and I'm so excited to find out what happens with the other characters.

"I believe you have ruined me, and I shall never get enough of you" 😍
Oh stop it!! 🫠😍

[Regina Geerlings · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Rake and The Muse
“I believe you have ruined me, and I shall never get enough of you.”

I was honoured to receive another amazing ARC, and this one might just be my favourite of the series so far! I couldn’t stop reading—it completely captivated me from start to finish. The romance, the characters, and the writing were all perfection.

If you haven’t already, I highly recommend checking out this author’s stories. You won’t be disappointed! This book releases on January 7th, so make sure to grab a copy.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story from beginning to the end...

Juliet and Theo are instant sparks once they see each other and they can't help but decide to go from art to passion instantly, but passion isn't enough for them, they want to be each other's muses for a lifetime.

This series has been incredible.. And I definitely can't wait to read the next book.

I received this book as an advanced reader's copy from the author in exchange for an honest review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

O how i am loving these 1800 romances by Christina! I loved Juliet and her passion for her art. She wanted her art in a gallery even if it was frowned upon she was a women. She didn't care and she believed she should have her dream. This story was a perfect match since Theo was an artist as well. Funny that both Juliet and Theo never wanted to marry and they fall hopeless in love. I also love that this took place at the same party as Eliza and Nick! You were able to see Juliet and Eliza's friendship bloom

[Vania - My Little Book Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I’m so enjoying this series. It’s the second book and the next couple to get together at this house party.

Theo and Juliet discover that there’s more to each other than what they see and it’s so damn sweet. Chemistry is on point and I could feel that written on these pages. Spice level is perfect for the length of this novella too.

I’m so grateful that I got to read this book and experience more of Christina Diane’s work. I’m such a fan and can’t wait for the next one.

[high.lady.katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖✨💜 ARC Review 💜✨📖

The Rake and the Muse

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I loved book 1 in the series so I was excited for this - and it did not disappoint! I read this in one sitting- couldn’t get enough of this sweet and spicy regency romance! I love the witty dialogue and steamy spice! Bridgerton fans this one’s for you!



💫Tropes 💫

💜 Curvy FMC
✨Secret passions
💜 Spicy
✨ Reform the Rake
💜 HEA


Release date: 1/7/2025 📖✨

[Ly · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable fast-paced reading!
I enjoyed this fast-paced read. This novella has interesting characters and a loving storyline. Both main characters, Juliet and Theo, are likeable. At first glance, they don't seem destined for romance, but a shared passion for art will make all the difference. Their shared artistic passion and talent draw Juliet and Theo together and give us this lovely and spicy romance.
I read an ARC provided by the author. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in the Unlikely Bethrothed series is a delightful and spicy novella. A young, curvaceous, and talented young lady, a rake with a secret passion and talent, a house party, and a scandalous encounter made for a beautifully written love story that was filled with delicious passion. I enjoyed how likable and talented they were and how beautifully this story ended. I highly recommend reading!

[NikiReadHere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliet and Theo. Falling in love and changing your ways in two days. Neither wanting to marry, both having a passion for the arts - it was written in the stars.

It was a quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was predictable from page one, but there is nothing wrong with that. I call this sort of book 'a sorbet'. A palette clenser in between complicated topics and course books. It entertains my mind and relaxes me.

I shall be reading all the others too.

[Madelaine Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Rake and The Muse by Christina Diane
Had my jaw on the ground from the electricity between these two!

We are introduced to Lady Juliet, a member of the Ton having a terrible time on the marriage market. As men only see her for her curves and women saw her as a threat.

Nearing the end of the season, she goes off to party in the country where she meets Theo. A lord with a notorious reputation.

Being in forced proximity has lead these two to be inspired in their arts. But also in their Lust! Will they be caught in the scandal of the season? Two unmarried pair in bed…. Guess you’ll have to read to find out.
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#igreads #readersofig #bookstan #bookcommunity #booksofig #readersofinstagram #instabooks #bookloversofinstagram #bibliophile #bookworms #bookaccounts #books #booknerd #bookaddicts

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, those bad boys thinking they will never fall in love and never marry. You have to love them. This is a very cute story with steamy scenes where we learn that Theo is not as rakish as he seems…maybe. While this is a short story it does pack a big punch. I wanted more of their relationship to build.

[Alexandra G · Rating 4 out of 5]

A house party. A rake and quiet beauty are introduced, and suddenly inspiration strikes...
The basic plot may be a little cliché, but this author certainly gave it her personal flavour and spice, and an enticing original twist!

~ Juliet & Theo ~
A curvaceous lady with a passion for painting and a nearly impossible dream. She knows her assets only attract the wrong kind of men, except for the one she cannot ignore - one so charming he couldn’t possibly be honourable, and yet...
A renowned rake ravenous for the softer lines in life, a second son turned marquess, a man stuck between the black and white of his drawings, promises and obligations - that splash of colour always just beyond his grasp until his muse calls.
He rescues her during a storm only to walk in on her reliving their ride...
and the rest is for you to find out!

At first glance she’s perfectly demure and he overly confident, but first impressions can be deceiving... She’s in it for the once in a lifetime adventure, and he unexpectedly discovers she’s everything and more. There’s something about them together - his effortless charm, her curiosity, their shared passion and undeniable chemistry. I really enjoyed the open honesty in their budding relationship - even when they hit a pothole or two.

A delicious little page-turner with just a pinch of drama and a dashing strangers-to-lovers romance. A smooth, entertaining, relaxing and very engaging read. And, as all the novellas in this series happen at the same house party, I can’t wait to find out who Cupid has set his sights on next!

[Teresa · Rating 1 out of 5]

This wasn't for me, unfortunately.

The more modern take on a historical was fine, but the interactions with the characters and how they were showcased didn't really work for me.

The novella is very highly rated, so was just my personal preference/mood maybe.

Reading Challenge 2025
December, R

[Sami · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read! Seeing the arrogant bachelor fall for the innocent debutant was perfect. If you love spicy regency era love stories, reading the novellas in this series will be satisfying in all ways.