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Rogues Club #1
Undeniable Rogue
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B006RLZVF0
An arranged marriage leads to unlikely passion...when the groom turns out to be a shameless rogue, in this Regency-period historical.
Widowed, penniless Sabrina Whitcomb isn't looking for romance. What she needs is a husband, and she knows well enough that romance and matrimony aren't always compatible. While providing for her twins and the child she now carries is paramount, wedding a virtual stranger--even a wealthy one, like Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe--is no light matter. Sabrina knows the friend who arranged the union would not promise her to a true scoundrel, but one look at her future husband convinces her that he is a shameless rogue. A shockingly handsome and desirable one, at that. Why has he agreed to marry her? When Gideon flashes that wicked, seductive smile, the reason hardly matters, but the chance that he'll steal her heart becomes all too real...
An arranged marriage leads to unlikely passion...when the groom turns out to be a shameless rogue, in this Regency-period historical.
Widowed, penniless Sabrina Whitcomb isn't looking for romance. What she needs is a husband, and she knows well enough that romance and matrimony aren't always compatible. While providing for her twins and the child she now carries is paramount, wedding a virtual stranger--even a wealthy one, like Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe--is no light matter. Sabrina knows the friend who arranged the union would not promise her to a true scoundrel, but one look at her future husband convinces her that he is a shameless rogue. A shockingly handsome and desirable one, at that. Why has he agreed to marry her? When Gideon flashes that wicked, seductive smile, the reason hardly matters, but the chance that he'll steal her heart becomes all too real...
320 pages, ebook
First published July 1, 2002
834 people are currently reading
3235 people want to read
About the author
Annette Blair
43 books1,007 followersAnnette Blair's romantic comedies owe their beginnings to a root canal and a reluctant trip to Salem Massachusetts. Though she had once proclaimed she'd never write a contemporary, she stumbled into the serendipitous role of Accidental Witch Writer on that trip. Funny how she managed to eat her words even with an aching jaw. Magic or destiny; Annette's Bewitching Romantic Comedies became her first National Bestsellers.
Her August '07 release, SEX AND THE PSYCHIC WITCH, the first in her Triplet Witch Trilogy, hit the #1 bestselling spot for contemporary romance-humorous on Barnes & Noble. It also hit B & N's overall bestseller lists for mass market and fiction mass market and #7 for romance mass market, topping Nielsen BookScan and Borders Bestseller lists as well.
Her August '07 release, SEX AND THE PSYCHIC WITCH, the first in her Triplet Witch Trilogy, hit the #1 bestselling spot for contemporary romance-humorous on Barnes & Noble. It also hit B & N's overall bestseller lists for mass market and fiction mass market and #7 for romance mass market, topping Nielsen BookScan and Borders Bestseller lists as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
June 26, 2012
This one was good. It was really well written and the plot was great. Here's the thing though nothing about the story was even remotely believeable. The Duke needed to be nominated for sainthood because that woman Sabrina was a habitual liar. She couldn't help herself she lied about everything and she lied so much she even lied to herself. Convinced herself that she was merely omitting the truth she even had her children and the man's own staff keeping secrets from him. Sabrina sabatoged this relationship to much for them to get their HEA and for it to be believeable. I'm sorry to say that but it's the plain truth. Their relationship seemed so forced and fake and it was all due to Sabrina.Though the book was still a joy to read Blair missed the mark with Sabrina she is one of the most unlikeable women I have ever read.
May 19, 2012
I don't really like the premise of this book - it's too unbelievable. No one is that forgiving or that attracted to someone else that they'll throw their personalities out the window.
If you can suspend your disbelief for the entire book; characters are alright. Ex-lover and would-be trouble maker Ronnie isn't all she lives up to be (which was kind of a disappointment) and the stupidity of the heroine bothered me.
**SPOILER**
It really annoys me that Sabrina continuouslylied omitted things from her new husband. Seriously he's your best bet, you better at least put most of your eggs in that basket! If you're so scared of men, then shouldn't you just fess up after he figures out you have two other children? UGH. I suppose this annoys me because there is so little character development. Readers are just plopped down in the middle of this and expected to believe what's going on.
Another pet peeve: too much assuming going on by the different characters...
Oh well, glad it was free. Gideon truly is a saint!
If you can suspend your disbelief for the entire book; characters are alright. Ex-lover and would-be trouble maker Ronnie isn't all she lives up to be (which was kind of a disappointment) and the stupidity of the heroine bothered me.
**SPOILER**
It really annoys me that Sabrina continuously
Another pet peeve: too much assuming going on by the different characters...
Oh well, glad it was free. Gideon truly is a saint!
March 2, 2012
I've snatched this as a free book and it is true what they say that the best things in life are free. I enjoyed this immensly and can honestly say this is one of rare books I'd re-read over and over again with delight.
August 10, 2013
Don't go into this expecting an accurate regency novel.... It's far too outrageous and unbelievable. I didn't love the heroine... She was quite needy and.... Well stupid. But it was just the type of book I needed. Cute and easy to read, and completely predictable. Oh! And free! (Overly steamy for me, but easy to skip past.)
August 25, 2009
With all the rave reviews at Amazon I really thought I'd like this book; too bad I was wrong. I really don't think it is anything out of the ordinary as the reviews state or imply. For me the story just seemed to plod along and never get anywhere interesting. I've read similar stories/plots that I've enjoyed much, much more, which were written in a way that let the reader into the story and didn't hold them at a distance. That's the way all Annette Blair books I've read have made me feel, I've never connected to any of them with the exception of The Butterfly Garden, which I loved and why I continue to read her books.
In this book I increasingly began to dislike Sabrina, but liked Gideon enough (with the exception of his liking, let alone loving, Sabrina). Even with her past, I felt she was too much of a Mary Sue and didn't have any redeeming features. For the most part I found her boring, tedious, stupid, and unworthy of Gideon. I will read the others in the Rogue series because (1) I have them lying around and (2) the next book sounds intriguing (hey, what can I say, I like scarred and/or tortured heroes! :P). I'll continue to give Annette Blair a chance so I can see if she has captured the magic that she had in The Butterfly Garden.
In this book I increasingly began to dislike Sabrina, but liked Gideon enough (with the exception of his liking, let alone loving, Sabrina). Even with her past, I felt she was too much of a Mary Sue and didn't have any redeeming features. For the most part I found her boring, tedious, stupid, and unworthy of Gideon. I will read the others in the Rogue series because (1) I have them lying around and (2) the next book sounds intriguing (hey, what can I say, I like scarred and/or tortured heroes! :P). I'll continue to give Annette Blair a chance so I can see if she has captured the magic that she had in The Butterfly Garden.
February 20, 2017
At least the bizarre comma overuse (and even more bizarre lack of use when actually needed) distracted from the convoluted, poorly conceived, and even more poorly executed plot. Fortunately, it was a quick read, as the author wasted no time on giving the characters actual personalities of any sort, so that helped.
Additionally, the author has an outstanding talent for flowery sex scenes filled with words that don't actually mean anything and never in any way actually mention genitals of any sort. Just lots of talk about stars and stars rising and stars bursting and stars. I mean, impressive. Really.
Additionally, the author has an outstanding talent for flowery sex scenes filled with words that don't actually mean anything and never in any way actually mention genitals of any sort. Just lots of talk about stars and stars rising and stars bursting and stars. I mean, impressive. Really.
March 17, 2022
Great start to series
This is a wonderful Regency romance about romance, honor, suspense and the family one makes. Great character and story arcs along with a fun set of secondary characters.
This is a wonderful Regency romance about romance, honor, suspense and the family one makes. Great character and story arcs along with a fun set of secondary characters.
September 29, 2012
I am done reading books by this Author. I've read three books by Annette Blair and I disliked each more than the last... They always look so promising, but I find the same issues with each book:
The characters are either insufferable playboys or helpless, needy females. The relationships between the characters are outlandish and for the most part the dialog is completely unbelievable.
The plot is assuming and more often than not just boring. Things get so far off topic that you start to wonder if your still reading the same book. Or if the Author is going for the Most Outrageous Plot Award.
The writing style and editing is terrible. *see above
Perhaps worst of all, these books always look so promising. I get my hopes up and look forward to an intersting book, only to end up disappointed again and again. So, I'm done. No more odious books by Ms. Blair for me!
The characters are either insufferable playboys or helpless, needy females. The relationships between the characters are outlandish and for the most part the dialog is completely unbelievable.
The plot is assuming and more often than not just boring. Things get so far off topic that you start to wonder if your still reading the same book. Or if the Author is going for the Most Outrageous Plot Award.
The writing style and editing is terrible. *see above
Perhaps worst of all, these books always look so promising. I get my hopes up and look forward to an intersting book, only to end up disappointed again and again. So, I'm done. No more odious books by Ms. Blair for me!
June 9, 2018
This review is of “An Undeniable Rogue”, book #1 in the “Rogues Club” series by Annette Blair.
The premise of the series centers around a group of Peers of the Realm-the Rogues Club-who are fighting on the continent against Napoleon. The pact is: those that survive will return home to take care of the loved ones of those lost.
One of those men is Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe. He returns to England to fulfill a promise from his late friend, Hawksworth: to marry Sabrina Whitcomb, the heroine of the book. When Gideon first meets Sabrina, he is shocked by two things: 1. She is beautiful; and 2., she is very much pregnant-eight months along to be exact. (Sabrina also has two 4 year-old twin sons, Damon and Rafferty). Sabrina needs to marry a rich man to take care of her and her kids, and Gideon is that person. Sabrina and Gideon agree to marry, although they have divergent views of marriage: Sabrina wants a marriage in name only; Gideon wants a full marriage, with intimacy.
As time goes on, Gideon, Sabrina and the boys begin to bond, and they welcome a new addition, a daughter, Juliana, to the family. However, their happiness is threatened when a figure from Sabrina’s past invades their lives.
That figure is Homer Lowick, a low-rent gambler who came into contact with Sabrina when her first husband, Brian Whitcomb, sold her to Lowick to pay off Brian’s gambling debts. Lowick and his henchmen-assisted by Gideon’s ex-mistress Lady Veronica Cartwright-kidnap the boys first, then Sabrina. They are rescued by Gideon and his friend, Bryceson Wakefield, Duke of Hawksworth (The same Duke of Hawksworth who was believed to be dead earlier). Gideon despairs because he believes Hawksworth is in love with Sabrina and vice-versa; the truth: Bryce is in love with his own wife, Alexandra; their story will be told in the next book in the series, An Unforgettable Rogue. With Bryce not a threat, Sabrina and Gideon realize they love each other and have their Happily Ever After.
Upside: I liked the fact that both Gideon and Sabrina both were wounded souls who both came from difficult family situations. This gave Gideon in particular empathy about Sabrina’s feelings toward him. There is good chemistry between Sabrina and Gideon, and some funny and sweet moments interspersed in the book.
Downside: While the chemistry is good between Sabrina and Gideon, it’s not particularly hot. Their romance is slow burn rather than hot passion. The supporting characters are basically one-note.
Sex: One love scene and a couple of non-consummation love scenes. None are particularly hot.
Violence: There are semi-graphic descriptions of the violence Sabrina endured at the hands of Brian. When Gideon and Bryce rescue Sabrina and the boys, Gideon is shot by Lowick, who is wounded by a knife thrown by Rafe.
Bottom Line: The goal of the first book in a series, in my view, is to get a reader excited about the books to follow. Ms. Blair does a good job doing that with “An Undeniable Rogue”.
The premise of the series centers around a group of Peers of the Realm-the Rogues Club-who are fighting on the continent against Napoleon. The pact is: those that survive will return home to take care of the loved ones of those lost.
One of those men is Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe. He returns to England to fulfill a promise from his late friend, Hawksworth: to marry Sabrina Whitcomb, the heroine of the book. When Gideon first meets Sabrina, he is shocked by two things: 1. She is beautiful; and 2., she is very much pregnant-eight months along to be exact. (Sabrina also has two 4 year-old twin sons, Damon and Rafferty). Sabrina needs to marry a rich man to take care of her and her kids, and Gideon is that person. Sabrina and Gideon agree to marry, although they have divergent views of marriage: Sabrina wants a marriage in name only; Gideon wants a full marriage, with intimacy.
As time goes on, Gideon, Sabrina and the boys begin to bond, and they welcome a new addition, a daughter, Juliana, to the family. However, their happiness is threatened when a figure from Sabrina’s past invades their lives.
That figure is Homer Lowick, a low-rent gambler who came into contact with Sabrina when her first husband, Brian Whitcomb, sold her to Lowick to pay off Brian’s gambling debts. Lowick and his henchmen-assisted by Gideon’s ex-mistress Lady Veronica Cartwright-kidnap the boys first, then Sabrina. They are rescued by Gideon and his friend, Bryceson Wakefield, Duke of Hawksworth (The same Duke of Hawksworth who was believed to be dead earlier). Gideon despairs because he believes Hawksworth is in love with Sabrina and vice-versa; the truth: Bryce is in love with his own wife, Alexandra; their story will be told in the next book in the series, An Unforgettable Rogue. With Bryce not a threat, Sabrina and Gideon realize they love each other and have their Happily Ever After.
Upside: I liked the fact that both Gideon and Sabrina both were wounded souls who both came from difficult family situations. This gave Gideon in particular empathy about Sabrina’s feelings toward him. There is good chemistry between Sabrina and Gideon, and some funny and sweet moments interspersed in the book.
Downside: While the chemistry is good between Sabrina and Gideon, it’s not particularly hot. Their romance is slow burn rather than hot passion. The supporting characters are basically one-note.
Sex: One love scene and a couple of non-consummation love scenes. None are particularly hot.
Violence: There are semi-graphic descriptions of the violence Sabrina endured at the hands of Brian. When Gideon and Bryce rescue Sabrina and the boys, Gideon is shot by Lowick, who is wounded by a knife thrown by Rafe.
Bottom Line: The goal of the first book in a series, in my view, is to get a reader excited about the books to follow. Ms. Blair does a good job doing that with “An Undeniable Rogue”.
December 20, 2019
Such a fun read :-)
June 13, 2016
What is it with all those bad ratings on Goodreads for this book?
Seriously, I feel like I only read complete bull the last weeks and now finally a good one again!!
This novel is special because.
1) the writing style keeps you going.
2) the characters are just super duper sweet and cute.
I mean, gosh, do you want me to talk about the twin? Cause Damon and Rafe are just one of a kind. They would do anything for their mama and for each other.
Their mama is an incredibly strong woman who doesn't back away from challenges. She suffered nearly her entire life by the hands of men. Still, she adores her kids and is determined to provide them with a good life - no matter the cost.
And then there's our rogue. I think he's special because loyalty and honor rank high for him. Yet, he can also be playful.
3) the plot!!
There's a lot of suspense as well as some twists and turns. Til the end I had no idea what was going on but it wasn't some kind of 'ahh-wth-tell-me-already' but some kind of 'oh-I'm-so-excited'. If you know what I mean.
Anyways, the plot was gorgeous and I loved that the kids were involved. I totally adore all kinds of romance novels with kids and am soo glad when the kids really have a role in those novels. That was definitely the case here.
4) the kids :D as mentioned above
5) yeah, that's it basically :D
Let me comment on some of the other reviews:
They say our heroine is so needy.
Well, I think just the opposite is true, actually. She can totally stand up for herself, knows how to make money and doesn't back down from challenges. Her kids come first. Love that.
And the fact that she's a habitual liar?
Ahm, well, yeah, can't deny that. But I think you totally have to think about the length of those lies here. They get to know each other, he lies to her and so why the hell should she tell him the truth at once? And then one or two days pass and she tells him everything so I don't think that's an issue.
Sure, there's a big threat and I think it's quite naive and really dumb that she doesn't tell her husband about it in the first place - especially 'cause her kids could be in danger, too and I thought she adored them... That annoyed me but that was the only thing.
Great read!
Seriously, I feel like I only read complete bull the last weeks and now finally a good one again!!
This novel is special because.
1) the writing style keeps you going.
2) the characters are just super duper sweet and cute.
I mean, gosh, do you want me to talk about the twin? Cause Damon and Rafe are just one of a kind. They would do anything for their mama and for each other.
Their mama is an incredibly strong woman who doesn't back away from challenges. She suffered nearly her entire life by the hands of men. Still, she adores her kids and is determined to provide them with a good life - no matter the cost.
And then there's our rogue. I think he's special because loyalty and honor rank high for him. Yet, he can also be playful.
3) the plot!!
There's a lot of suspense as well as some twists and turns. Til the end I had no idea what was going on but it wasn't some kind of 'ahh-wth-tell-me-already' but some kind of 'oh-I'm-so-excited'. If you know what I mean.
Anyways, the plot was gorgeous and I loved that the kids were involved. I totally adore all kinds of romance novels with kids and am soo glad when the kids really have a role in those novels. That was definitely the case here.
4) the kids :D as mentioned above
5) yeah, that's it basically :D
Let me comment on some of the other reviews:
They say our heroine is so needy.
Well, I think just the opposite is true, actually. She can totally stand up for herself, knows how to make money and doesn't back down from challenges. Her kids come first. Love that.
And the fact that she's a habitual liar?
Ahm, well, yeah, can't deny that. But I think you totally have to think about the length of those lies here. They get to know each other, he lies to her and so why the hell should she tell him the truth at once? And then one or two days pass and she tells him everything so I don't think that's an issue.
Sure, there's a big threat and I think it's quite naive and really dumb that she doesn't tell her husband about it in the first place - especially 'cause her kids could be in danger, too and I thought she adored them... That annoyed me but that was the only thing.
Great read!
August 20, 2014
Hawksworth gets Gideon to agree to protect Sabrina Whitworth. Hawksworth is dying on the battlefield. When Gideon can finally return to his home it is late at night months later and he decides to enter by the servants door. He is accosted with flour by a small woman ripe with child. Despite her condition he is aroused. New servant? He is determined to have her. When she invites him to eat and mistakes him for a needy man, he plays along. Finding out she is his intended just adds to her mystery. His charade of a poor man is unmasked on their wedding day. After being legally married he insists she will sleep every night with him and they will both be naked. Her late husband ill used her and she would rather the marriage be in name only. But he is having none of that. Without having intercourse over time he shows her that there is much joy in the physical side of marriage. She is keeping secrets. She has 4 yr old twin boys and an enemy she hopes will not find her. Gideon delivers her daughter and is instantly in love with the little girl, he names her Juliana. But 2 evil people have joined forces. One is determined to ill use Sabrina and the other is determined to wed Gideon and become the Duchess. The twins are kidnapped and Sabrina runs to give herself over to save them. Gideon and the police are running to try and save her. Will they get there in time to save Sabrina from rape? To save the twins?
October 30, 2013
In a pact made by a group of aristocratic soldiers to have each other's backs, Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe finds himself pledging the dying Duke of Hawksworth to marry and take of his sister, Sabrina Whitcomb. Gideon has no idea what he is getting into and must use a great deal of care and patience with his new bride.
Sabrina holds many secrets. Sold by her father to her first husband, given away to another monster, she doesn't place any trust in men. She is also a widow with 4 year old twins and another baby on the way. Security is a key component for her life and those she cares for. Much to Gideon's surpriseBut Gideon slowly wears her down making her actually want to give him her heart and having a marriage she could be proud of.
Much to Gideon's surprise, he enjoys Sabrina's company. He enjoys discovering her mysteries and seeing her smile and as time goes on, he becomes more and more drawn to her until one day, she is taken away...
I really enjoyed this story. Although Gideon was maybe a touch too quick to fall madly in lust with Sabrina, it still was a clean read with a few light twists and turns that kept the story moving forward.
Sabrina holds many secrets. Sold by her father to her first husband, given away to another monster, she doesn't place any trust in men. She is also a widow with 4 year old twins and another baby on the way. Security is a key component for her life and those she cares for. Much to Gideon's surpriseBut Gideon slowly wears her down making her actually want to give him her heart and having a marriage she could be proud of.
Much to Gideon's surprise, he enjoys Sabrina's company. He enjoys discovering her mysteries and seeing her smile and as time goes on, he becomes more and more drawn to her until one day, she is taken away...
I really enjoyed this story. Although Gideon was maybe a touch too quick to fall madly in lust with Sabrina, it still was a clean read with a few light twists and turns that kept the story moving forward.
February 19, 2014
This books makes no sense at all. What Duke would marry a pregnant women who already had a set of twins?? It would not happen. If you are going to write Historical Romance at least try and make it believable. Dukes wanted and needed their own blood heirs. They didn't want someone else's leavings to produce that heir. Sorry 1 star!!
September 10, 2016
I just didn't buy it. There is no way that a man that got bamboozled into marrying a woman would be A. ok with her additional kids that he wasn't aware of, B. ok with the fact that she was 9 months pregnant, and C. so attracted to her in that physical state he couldn't keep his hands off her. Whatever. This should be a fantasy fiction not a romance.
July 18, 2017
I love Regency romance and while this was well written with a solid plot, I hated the characters and it was totally unbelievable. There's nothing redeemable about a heroine who lies constantly and that is exactly what Sabrina does. Disappointing.
My Rating: 2 stars
My Rating: 2 stars
January 13, 2012
This is a strange story that evoked too many "huhs?" A Kindle freebie.
September 13, 2013
Amazing start to a new series! Annette Blair delivers in this trio of books with heart stopping rogues and the nastiest of villains! A historical romance set worth reading!!
April 6, 2020
This is a regency historical romance that will stretch the reader's vocabulary. The language including the dialogue seemed to be of the period (the time of Napoleon Bonaparte and Waterloo).
This is the first of several romances about men who have titles but consider themselves rogues (going against the 'rules' of the time). As it opens, four rogues make a pact to protect the women in their lives IF they don't survive the war with Bonaparte.
And the worst happens in that Sabrina Whitcomb, a woman who is promised to another is now to be wed to a duke, the Duke of Stanthorpe since Hawksthorne has died in the battle. The problem is that the woman is with child (she is due in two weeks) and Gideon is playing the rogue by acting as if he is penniless. Sabrina, for her part, only wants the financial protection offered by Gideon; she has no desire to consummate the marriage. Her previous experiences with men have been abusive. Her husband 'sold' her off to cover his gambling debts to another abusive man from whom she has escaped. She wants only to protect her children.
Still, there is a spark between the two, and the wedding happens within a few days of Sabrina's and Gideon's first meeting. Each keeps secrets from each other. Neither of them really trusts the other. Will they make it a true marriage, or will it always be a marriage of convenience? Since neither believes in love, will they fall into love? Or will it be a matter of lust only?
Will Gideon accept her child as his own, or will he be as abusive as all of the rest of the men who have been in her life? Will Sabrina ever share her past with him, or does she feel that he would cast her aside if he knows?
The reality is that a lack of communication and trust between the two leads to most of friction between them.
It is romantic; it is sexy, and it is a refreshing change of pace. Yes, there are some What-the-tuck trends (green-eyed characters; smirks; rich alpha males) as well as some typos (missing words), but overall, this reader is considering reading some of the others in the series.
With a listing of the author's other novels, this reader realized several are already sitting on shelves to be read.
This is the first of several romances about men who have titles but consider themselves rogues (going against the 'rules' of the time). As it opens, four rogues make a pact to protect the women in their lives IF they don't survive the war with Bonaparte.
And the worst happens in that Sabrina Whitcomb, a woman who is promised to another is now to be wed to a duke, the Duke of Stanthorpe since Hawksthorne has died in the battle. The problem is that the woman is with child (she is due in two weeks) and Gideon is playing the rogue by acting as if he is penniless. Sabrina, for her part, only wants the financial protection offered by Gideon; she has no desire to consummate the marriage. Her previous experiences with men have been abusive. Her husband 'sold' her off to cover his gambling debts to another abusive man from whom she has escaped. She wants only to protect her children.
Still, there is a spark between the two, and the wedding happens within a few days of Sabrina's and Gideon's first meeting. Each keeps secrets from each other. Neither of them really trusts the other. Will they make it a true marriage, or will it always be a marriage of convenience? Since neither believes in love, will they fall into love? Or will it be a matter of lust only?
Will Gideon accept her child as his own, or will he be as abusive as all of the rest of the men who have been in her life? Will Sabrina ever share her past with him, or does she feel that he would cast her aside if he knows?
The reality is that a lack of communication and trust between the two leads to most of friction between them.
It is romantic; it is sexy, and it is a refreshing change of pace. Yes, there are some What-the-tuck trends (green-eyed characters; smirks; rich alpha males) as well as some typos (missing words), but overall, this reader is considering reading some of the others in the series.
With a listing of the author's other novels, this reader realized several are already sitting on shelves to be read.
October 3, 2020
This first book of a set-of-four is built around an interesting premise. Some British officers, fighting Napoleon and knowing they probably all won't survive, form a pact. The promise is that those who survive will go home and take care of the loved ones of the dying officer(s). The officer highlighted in this book is Gideon St. Goddard, Duke of Stanthorpe. He has promised his dying friend (Hawksworth) to return to England and marry Sabrina Whitcomb.
Gideon is shocked to find a very pregnant Sabrina in his home. She has fired the housekeeper and taken on the maintenance of his home. Unbeknownst to Gideon, she is hiding her pair of four-year-old-twins, Rafferty and Damon. Sabrina tells Gideon that she needs a rich man and she's not interested in marital intimacy. Gideon wants a marriage with intimacy, but he agrees to some delay, due to her very late pregnancy.
Not long after their marriage, Gideon finds the two boys. At first, he is shocked, then finds that he is not at all upset by having 3 children so soon after marriage (Sabrina is due in about 2 weeks).
Generally, the dialogue was interesting and the plot kept me turning the pages. The plot was unique enough to keep me interested until the end. Usually, the purpose of the first book of a series is to set the stage for the remaining books. I think the author provided a worthy premise for the rest of the series.
Gideon is shocked to find a very pregnant Sabrina in his home. She has fired the housekeeper and taken on the maintenance of his home. Unbeknownst to Gideon, she is hiding her pair of four-year-old-twins, Rafferty and Damon. Sabrina tells Gideon that she needs a rich man and she's not interested in marital intimacy. Gideon wants a marriage with intimacy, but he agrees to some delay, due to her very late pregnancy.
Not long after their marriage, Gideon finds the two boys. At first, he is shocked, then finds that he is not at all upset by having 3 children so soon after marriage (Sabrina is due in about 2 weeks).
Generally, the dialogue was interesting and the plot kept me turning the pages. The plot was unique enough to keep me interested until the end. Usually, the purpose of the first book of a series is to set the stage for the remaining books. I think the author provided a worthy premise for the rest of the series.
May 4, 2025
briefly looking at other people's reviews it looks like I absolutely suspended my belief in the realism of these characters cos I loved them immediately. I was a huge fan of the level of heat and humour in the book which were both led by the main character Gideon.
I loved Gideon. even when the staff were clearly dodgy and protective of the mystery boy that he had encountered in the house I felt his personality shine through. it was obvious secrets were being kept from him and Gideon was getting frustrated but he was patient, quietly observant with a persistent curiosity. he'd make a great detective.
this is a book I have come back to multiple times with many memories of scenes and characters from the book.
I was happy with the build up of Sabrina's and Gideon's physical relationship.. Gideon is charming and I love a man who can show his desire of a woman and also have no issues backing off multiple times to create that relaxing and trusting connection.
The twins were fun characters and even Juliana the newborn was perfect. I fell in love with them and Sabrina through Gideon. He had found the perfect candidates for his big, soft heart.
The next book in the series is teased with Hawksworth at the end of the novel. although I had read it already I can't remember what happened in it... but cos I enjoyed the undeniable rogue so, so much I'm ready to jump into "rereading" the unforgettable rogue as my next read.
I loved Gideon. even when the staff were clearly dodgy and protective of the mystery boy that he had encountered in the house I felt his personality shine through. it was obvious secrets were being kept from him and Gideon was getting frustrated but he was patient, quietly observant with a persistent curiosity. he'd make a great detective.
this is a book I have come back to multiple times with many memories of scenes and characters from the book.
I was happy with the build up of Sabrina's and Gideon's physical relationship.. Gideon is charming and I love a man who can show his desire of a woman and also have no issues backing off multiple times to create that relaxing and trusting connection.
The twins were fun characters and even Juliana the newborn was perfect. I fell in love with them and Sabrina through Gideon. He had found the perfect candidates for his big, soft heart.
The next book in the series is teased with Hawksworth at the end of the novel. although I had read it already I can't remember what happened in it... but cos I enjoyed the undeniable rogue so, so much I'm ready to jump into "rereading" the unforgettable rogue as my next read.
November 28, 2017
TWO UNTRUSTING SOULS LEARN TO TRUST AGAIN
This 5 star rating is totally deserved by the rhythmatic flow of this terrific story of Gideon, who in the battlefield gives his honorbound oath to care of the problems of & marry Sabrina, thereby keeping her safe. Safe from what was not exsplained. This story is good even for 18 yr old because there isn't any actual coupling, yet many occasions of pleasurings without the actual coupling finish, allows Gideon to show Sabrina, love, tenderness and that a woman can experience a whole range of emotions and feelings from the love he showeres on her body at least while in bed. Simply, it appears that Gideon needs to discover can she love him, does she love him, trust him, be able to have physical love with him, children might love him and what to call him. Finally, with Sabrina 's harsh past, can she see that he can love her more than as an object or money and can Gideon, actually be part of a family for once in his life and not just as a bystander looking in. Oh, Annette Blair, plays her rhythm well as she carries you through many fast, slow, and somewhere inbetween melodies to tell you this enticing wonderful story.
This 5 star rating is totally deserved by the rhythmatic flow of this terrific story of Gideon, who in the battlefield gives his honorbound oath to care of the problems of & marry Sabrina, thereby keeping her safe. Safe from what was not exsplained. This story is good even for 18 yr old because there isn't any actual coupling, yet many occasions of pleasurings without the actual coupling finish, allows Gideon to show Sabrina, love, tenderness and that a woman can experience a whole range of emotions and feelings from the love he showeres on her body at least while in bed. Simply, it appears that Gideon needs to discover can she love him, does she love him, trust him, be able to have physical love with him, children might love him and what to call him. Finally, with Sabrina 's harsh past, can she see that he can love her more than as an object or money and can Gideon, actually be part of a family for once in his life and not just as a bystander looking in. Oh, Annette Blair, plays her rhythm well as she carries you through many fast, slow, and somewhere inbetween melodies to tell you this enticing wonderful story.
February 4, 2018
I'm of two minds on this story. One, the hero is so fabulous. Two, the heroine is so...not fabulous. I liked her at first, she was protective of her children and she had endured bad behavior on the the part of her father and her deceased husband, she took in stray people and gave them her trust. But she took from the hero without giving back and hesitated to give him her trust even though he had more than earned it. He accepted her and their situation, made an effort to endear her children and was protective of all of them. She kept her counsel and did not share the danger she was in which endangered all of them. Why? Cowardice.
Regardless of the good story premise, it ended up being a story already written many times. After all, love means taking a risk. It means trust. He jumped, she did not. A courageous person takes risks. Heroes and heroines take risks. Wimps do not.
Regardless of the good story premise, it ended up being a story already written many times. After all, love means taking a risk. It means trust. He jumped, she did not. A courageous person takes risks. Heroes and heroines take risks. Wimps do not.
December 30, 2018
Unconventional circumstances lead to a lasting love!
Note to hist-rom purists: If you're looking for exacting historical accuracy, grab a history textbook and leave romances alone. We love our HEAs no matter how they come, and while this book may test the boundaries of what commonly happened in the historical time setting, events certainly could have happened as described and that's enough to give us a solid, heartwarming romance.
Gideon is a good man. He may not quite understand all the details yet, but he's going to do right by Sabrina and somehow make their family work. Sabrina's survived more than her share of life's disappointments so it's easy to forgive her the secrets she feels compelled to protect. Their undeniable attraction serves to open their hearts, and we're treated to a beautifully-told love story that transcends time and place.
This author is a gifted storyteller, and this book was a true joy to read. I loved every bit of it, each time I read it.
Note to hist-rom purists: If you're looking for exacting historical accuracy, grab a history textbook and leave romances alone. We love our HEAs no matter how they come, and while this book may test the boundaries of what commonly happened in the historical time setting, events certainly could have happened as described and that's enough to give us a solid, heartwarming romance.
Gideon is a good man. He may not quite understand all the details yet, but he's going to do right by Sabrina and somehow make their family work. Sabrina's survived more than her share of life's disappointments so it's easy to forgive her the secrets she feels compelled to protect. Their undeniable attraction serves to open their hearts, and we're treated to a beautifully-told love story that transcends time and place.
This author is a gifted storyteller, and this book was a true joy to read. I loved every bit of it, each time I read it.
November 15, 2018
Got this for free some time back and decided to finally give it a go. Plot-wise, I really liked it... But, OMG Sabrina drove me nuts after a certain point! Yes, I understand her reasoning and that this was actually very realistic to what people who have endured what she went through; BUT, it still aggravated me after a period because the point of character development is to have it in the first place and there was almost none on her part.
December 17, 2019
I actually read this years ago and skimmed through most of it a few days ago until I remembered what it was about.
The main character, Sabrina, effectively ruined my enjoyment of what would have, otherwise, been an enjoyable book. There's little development and the problems that arise are (somewhat) partially due to her own actions. Hiding the truth, lying, and deceiving a SO are just characteristics wholly unappreciated in a character. It would be alright if the book developed Sabrina beyond this, to where she truly regrets and realizes what her actions have cost her (or might have cost her). Unfortunately, each time she hides something from her husband, that truth gets shoved right in front of her unsuspecting husband. And you would think she would own up to her own mistakes. But that moment, when it does come, is too little to late. That man really has some patience to deal with someone who repeatedly abuses his trust.
The main character, Sabrina, effectively ruined my enjoyment of what would have, otherwise, been an enjoyable book. There's little development and the problems that arise are (somewhat) partially due to her own actions. Hiding the truth, lying, and deceiving a SO are just characteristics wholly unappreciated in a character. It would be alright if the book developed Sabrina beyond this, to where she truly regrets and realizes what her actions have cost her (or might have cost her). Unfortunately, each time she hides something from her husband, that truth gets shoved right in front of her unsuspecting husband. And you would think she would own up to her own mistakes. But that moment, when it does come, is too little to late. That man really has some patience to deal with someone who repeatedly abuses his trust.
October 16, 2017
Gideon is asked to keep a vow as does everyone who is part of the Rogues Club. From the very first moment, he is attracted to Sabrina a mother of two and carrying another child. He marries her without knowing that Sabrina's main goal is to make sure she and her children are never sold again. She wants to protect them. Its a nice read because of the children. Those tender moments of family life are great. I wonder how his grandmother & Prinny readily accept her but then this story would be longer. Overall it's a wonderful read with a Duke and a mother with three children as his bride.
April 13, 2020
My first book by this author.
I liked the book. It was a simple easy romance. The chemistry between the pair was good. The twins were interesting and the way Gideon took to instant parenting of boys was very nice. There were a few minor twists and turns that kept the plot moving.
There was focus on sex but it was not so much that it made the book read like porn. Rather the sex was just a part of the story and was taken forward in a good way.
All in all a good onetime read. I will definitely go for more by this author or more in this series
I liked the book. It was a simple easy romance. The chemistry between the pair was good. The twins were interesting and the way Gideon took to instant parenting of boys was very nice. There were a few minor twists and turns that kept the plot moving.
There was focus on sex but it was not so much that it made the book read like porn. Rather the sex was just a part of the story and was taken forward in a good way.
All in all a good onetime read. I will definitely go for more by this author or more in this series
August 28, 2017
This was a formulaic Regency with a slightly different twist. A Duke, at the request of his dying friend, agrees to marry a penniless woman. She, when he first sees her, is about nine months pregnant and they marry. Shortly thereafter he also learns she has twin sons. The story is about how they become a family and also about evil people from both of their pasts. It was fast, easy reading.
October 26, 2017
This is actually worth less than as star. 1) there are not many Dukes in all of England and this terribly researched story would abuse two of them Pregnant women who are showing and of a certain station are confined. 3) Children can not be hidden in one of the few mansions in grovesnor square from a Duke's servants.
So if you can live with a story that does not care about the Regency Era... Then the rest doesn't really matter.
So if you can live with a story that does not care about the Regency Era... Then the rest doesn't really matter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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