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Rogues Gambit #1
Rules for a Fake Fiancé
A delightful Regency romance perfect for fans of Julia Quinn and Tessa Dare!
Melinda Smithson needs a husband - preferably one who appreciates her scientific mind. Trevor Anaedsley, future Duke of Timby, needs a temporary fiancé to secure his inheritance. Their fake engagement seems like the perfect solution...until real feelings start to complicate their clever scheme.
Between meddling families, dramatic duels, and a surprisingly combative turkey, Melinda and Trevor discover that matters of the heart can't be approached with scientific precision.
As London's high society watches their every move, can these two brilliant minds find the formula for true love?
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
Rogues Gambit
Book 1: Rules for a Fake Fiancé
Book 2: Rules for a Bastard Lord
Book 3: Rules for a Wicked Wager
This story was previously published under the title 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake. It now has newly added content for you to enjoy.
Melinda Smithson needs a husband - preferably one who appreciates her scientific mind. Trevor Anaedsley, future Duke of Timby, needs a temporary fiancé to secure his inheritance. Their fake engagement seems like the perfect solution...until real feelings start to complicate their clever scheme.
Between meddling families, dramatic duels, and a surprisingly combative turkey, Melinda and Trevor discover that matters of the heart can't be approached with scientific precision.
As London's high society watches their every move, can these two brilliant minds find the formula for true love?
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
Rogues Gambit
Book 1: Rules for a Fake Fiancé
Book 2: Rules for a Bastard Lord
Book 3: Rules for a Wicked Wager
This story was previously published under the title 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake. It now has newly added content for you to enjoy.
- GenresHistorical Romance
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2025
59 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 26, 2025
Melinda Smithson needs a husband preferably one who appreciates her scientific mind. Trevor Anaedsley, future Duke of Timby, needs a temporary fiancé to secure his inheritance. Their fake engagement seems like the perfect solution until real feelings start to complicate their clever scheme.
A new author to me & a new series. I’m on the fence about this book, whilst it was well written I liked Mellie & Trevor but didn’t love them & didn’t feel any real chemistry between them. I found myself skimming through pages too which showed I wasn’t invested in their story. I will try the next in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
A new author to me & a new series. I’m on the fence about this book, whilst it was well written I liked Mellie & Trevor but didn’t love them & didn’t feel any real chemistry between them. I found myself skimming through pages too which showed I wasn’t invested in their story. I will try the next in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
February 3, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book! Trevor and Mellie are hilarious! Add in the nosy ton, her crazy family and you have yourself the perfect regency romance!
I do not seek out regency romance novels. I find some from time to time I like and this is one that caught my attention and I loved it from start to that hilarious ending. Trevor and Mellie do not have a normal beginning. As a matter of fact they barely have a beginning but when you know you know and Mellie and Trevor will do what they can for each other!
So many sweet and romantic moments in this book and though the steam is angsty when it happens oh boy it’s magnificent. This author is new to me but it’s not the last of her books I will read because I am now a fan!
I do not seek out regency romance novels. I find some from time to time I like and this is one that caught my attention and I loved it from start to that hilarious ending. Trevor and Mellie do not have a normal beginning. As a matter of fact they barely have a beginning but when you know you know and Mellie and Trevor will do what they can for each other!
So many sweet and romantic moments in this book and though the steam is angsty when it happens oh boy it’s magnificent. This author is new to me but it’s not the last of her books I will read because I am now a fan!
February 1, 2025
A fun romp with lots of heart. There were a couple of phrases that I had to look up their regency-era meanings to make sure I understood them correctly in context (e.g. carte blanche has a different connotation these days), but otherwise an enjoyable read.
Intimate scenes were sexy rather than outright spicy/titillating, and genuinely contributed to the storyline, which I appreciated.
Overall, I gave this book a rating of 4.3/5. To me, the main area it lost points in was the supporting cast; some were two dimensional, others had potential to be the subject of future books, but we’re not given the opportunity to get invested in them.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
Intimate scenes were sexy rather than outright spicy/titillating, and genuinely contributed to the storyline, which I appreciated.
Overall, I gave this book a rating of 4.3/5. To me, the main area it lost points in was the supporting cast; some were two dimensional, others had potential to be the subject of future books, but we’re not given the opportunity to get invested in them.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
February 2, 2025
A fun and spicy story for fans of Tessa Dare and Julia Quinn
What a fun read! As a big fan of Tessa Dare’s Girl Meets Duke series, this was giving me a lot of the same vibes. The playful banter, the fun characters and meaningful character journeys. This story has it in spades. I’m a first time reader of Katherine Lyons and I’m a new fast fan.
Rules for a Fake Fiance follows the wonderfully winding and sometimes ridiculous journey of Melinda Smithson and the future Duke of Timby Trevor Anaedsley. With both of them caught in difficult home situations, for Melinda an over arduous cousin who she does not wish to marry and Trevor cut off from his family fortune without a bride, the two strike a deal. To become affianced.
Engaged to a future Duke will get Melinda out of the countryside to meet far more likable potential husbands than her cousin and Trevor will once again be flush with cash. The plan seems perfect until, as always, feelings start getting in the way.
I really liked this story! The banter and flirtation between Melinda and Trevor is fun and entertaining. I especially loved the characters, even the over dramatic cousin Ronnie. I especially loved the ever proper Lady Eleanor and the newly minted Duke and Duchess of Bucklynde. Lady Eleanor gave me major Caroline Bingely energy, a cool calculated sort of woman who may come off harsh and cruel but it is out of extreme care and understanding of the unfair world in which the women must survive.
While the plot is a bit windy, and sometimes the circumstances become pretty ridiculous (at one point there is a duel between 3 men and a turkey - like an actual bird..) it was still a fun ride, peppered with steamy rendezvous between the two romantic leads. I truly liked the growing romantic moments more but the spice is written well and grows naturally. It also drives home with a heavy hand the authors message about the ridiculousness of men sometimes - the constant challenges to duels etc, was a bit ugh BUT does successfully make the comparison between the level heads of women versus the erratic nature of toxic masculinity.
It seems the start of a series, and I hope the next book sees Lady Eleanor contending with a man that can meet her on her intellectual level and get her to let her hair down so to speak.
Overall, a very fun read. I’m excited to see what else this author has in store for this series!
What a fun read! As a big fan of Tessa Dare’s Girl Meets Duke series, this was giving me a lot of the same vibes. The playful banter, the fun characters and meaningful character journeys. This story has it in spades. I’m a first time reader of Katherine Lyons and I’m a new fast fan.
Rules for a Fake Fiance follows the wonderfully winding and sometimes ridiculous journey of Melinda Smithson and the future Duke of Timby Trevor Anaedsley. With both of them caught in difficult home situations, for Melinda an over arduous cousin who she does not wish to marry and Trevor cut off from his family fortune without a bride, the two strike a deal. To become affianced.
Engaged to a future Duke will get Melinda out of the countryside to meet far more likable potential husbands than her cousin and Trevor will once again be flush with cash. The plan seems perfect until, as always, feelings start getting in the way.
I really liked this story! The banter and flirtation between Melinda and Trevor is fun and entertaining. I especially loved the characters, even the over dramatic cousin Ronnie. I especially loved the ever proper Lady Eleanor and the newly minted Duke and Duchess of Bucklynde. Lady Eleanor gave me major Caroline Bingely energy, a cool calculated sort of woman who may come off harsh and cruel but it is out of extreme care and understanding of the unfair world in which the women must survive.
While the plot is a bit windy, and sometimes the circumstances become pretty ridiculous (at one point there is a duel between 3 men and a turkey - like an actual bird..) it was still a fun ride, peppered with steamy rendezvous between the two romantic leads. I truly liked the growing romantic moments more but the spice is written well and grows naturally. It also drives home with a heavy hand the authors message about the ridiculousness of men sometimes - the constant challenges to duels etc, was a bit ugh BUT does successfully make the comparison between the level heads of women versus the erratic nature of toxic masculinity.
It seems the start of a series, and I hope the next book sees Lady Eleanor contending with a man that can meet her on her intellectual level and get her to let her hair down so to speak.
Overall, a very fun read. I’m excited to see what else this author has in store for this series!
February 15, 2025
Katherine Lyons delivers a lighthearted and entertaining Regency romance with Rules for a Fake Fiancé, a story filled with playful banter, well-placed intimacy, and some delightfully ridiculous moments.
The novel follows Melinda Smithson, a scientifically minded heroine trapped by societal constraints, and Trevor Anaedsley, the future Duke of Timby, who needs a fiancée to unlock his inheritance. Their arrangement seems mutually beneficial—Melinda escapes an unwanted marriage to her overbearing cousin, and Trevor secures his fortune. But, of course, things get complicated when real emotions enter the mix.
The chemistry between Melinda and Trevor is enjoyable, though not quite as compelling as I’d hoped. Their flirtation and witty exchanges were entertaining, and I appreciated that the intimate moments felt meaningful rather than gratuitous. However, I found myself struggling to fully connect with their romance. Melinda was an easy character to root for—intelligent, kind, and determined—but Trevor often came across as immature and lacking the depth I wanted in a romantic lead. His actions, particularly his failure to fully support Melinda when she needed him most, left me frustrated.
The supporting cast was a mixed bag. Some characters felt two-dimensional, while others had the potential to shine in future books. I particularly enjoyed Lady Eleanor, who had a sharp edge, and the newly titled Duke and Duchess of Bucklynde. However, I wanted more development for the side characters to truly become invested in them.
The novel’s humor was a highlight, though at times, the absurdity bordered on excessive—case in point: a three-man-and-a-turkey duel. While the over-the-top moments contributed to the book’s charm, they occasionally distracted from the emotional stakes. The story also makes a strong (if somewhat heavy-handed) commentary on toxic masculinity, with frequent duels and challenges reinforcing the contrast between the erratic pride of men and the level-headedness of women.
Overall, Rules for a Fake Fiancé was an enjoyable read with charming moments, but it didn’t quite reach the heights of my favorite historical romances. I’m especially intrigued to see if Lady Eleanor gets her own book, as she deserves a partner who can match her intellect and challenge her in the best way possible.
Would I read the next book? Probably. Would I recommend this one? If you enjoy fun, slightly ridiculous historical romances with a touch of steam, absolutely!
🖤Length: 343 Pages
🖤Genre: Historical Romance
🖤Spice: Slow Burn
🖤Editing: Nothing that pulled me from the story
🖤Series: Rogues Gambit
🖤Ending: Happily Ever After
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The novel follows Melinda Smithson, a scientifically minded heroine trapped by societal constraints, and Trevor Anaedsley, the future Duke of Timby, who needs a fiancée to unlock his inheritance. Their arrangement seems mutually beneficial—Melinda escapes an unwanted marriage to her overbearing cousin, and Trevor secures his fortune. But, of course, things get complicated when real emotions enter the mix.
The chemistry between Melinda and Trevor is enjoyable, though not quite as compelling as I’d hoped. Their flirtation and witty exchanges were entertaining, and I appreciated that the intimate moments felt meaningful rather than gratuitous. However, I found myself struggling to fully connect with their romance. Melinda was an easy character to root for—intelligent, kind, and determined—but Trevor often came across as immature and lacking the depth I wanted in a romantic lead. His actions, particularly his failure to fully support Melinda when she needed him most, left me frustrated.
The supporting cast was a mixed bag. Some characters felt two-dimensional, while others had the potential to shine in future books. I particularly enjoyed Lady Eleanor, who had a sharp edge, and the newly titled Duke and Duchess of Bucklynde. However, I wanted more development for the side characters to truly become invested in them.
The novel’s humor was a highlight, though at times, the absurdity bordered on excessive—case in point: a three-man-and-a-turkey duel. While the over-the-top moments contributed to the book’s charm, they occasionally distracted from the emotional stakes. The story also makes a strong (if somewhat heavy-handed) commentary on toxic masculinity, with frequent duels and challenges reinforcing the contrast between the erratic pride of men and the level-headedness of women.
Overall, Rules for a Fake Fiancé was an enjoyable read with charming moments, but it didn’t quite reach the heights of my favorite historical romances. I’m especially intrigued to see if Lady Eleanor gets her own book, as she deserves a partner who can match her intellect and challenge her in the best way possible.
Would I read the next book? Probably. Would I recommend this one? If you enjoy fun, slightly ridiculous historical romances with a touch of steam, absolutely!
🖤Length: 343 Pages
🖤Genre: Historical Romance
🖤Spice: Slow Burn
🖤Editing: Nothing that pulled me from the story
🖤Series: Rogues Gambit
🖤Ending: Happily Ever After
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 5, 2025
I promised an author at London Rare25 that "I make very detailed reviews on Goodreads," and I am here to deliver.
Rules for a Fake Fiancé was definitely a ride of emotions for me. Initially... I cannot say I liked any of the characters, and I believe it was because of these reasons:
*) Too much talk from secondary characters about the social difference between the protagonists.
*) The fact that no one had Melinda's back.
However, after moving to London, the narrative turned more witty, fun, and entertaining! While a little poignant, Trevor and Mellie's relationship developed more playfully. Mellie found her place in her new environment, and more importantly, she became more confident and understood what she is looking for in her future.
Trevor, on his part, was a little harder to love, due to the fact that his point of view was initially too conscious of social propriety and unyielding to his yearning for Mellie. But after he more or less accepted his emotions, he became far more dear to me.
Although I think I would like it better if there were some scene after they established their relationship rather than just the courtship. Also, I adored the dueling scenes, especially the sheer mayhem they created. Especially if they involve a turkey and leave me giggling.
Tags:
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Virgin FMC 🌮💦👅
Reformed Rake 🍆💦🤤
Marriage of convenience🤤😳 🥵
Duelling 🤺🗡️⚔️
Weapon use 🗡 ⚔️🔫
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Bad boy bad girl energy👩❤️👨👥💀
Possessive MMCs💞 💓 💗
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Different social classes ✨👑💫
Spicy 🤤😳 🥵
Slow burn 🕯🪔 🧯
Loss of parents (past) 💔🪔🩸
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔👰🏼🌠
Rules for a Fake Fiancé was definitely a ride of emotions for me. Initially... I cannot say I liked any of the characters, and I believe it was because of these reasons:
*) Too much talk from secondary characters about the social difference between the protagonists.
*) The fact that no one had Melinda's back.
However, after moving to London, the narrative turned more witty, fun, and entertaining! While a little poignant, Trevor and Mellie's relationship developed more playfully. Mellie found her place in her new environment, and more importantly, she became more confident and understood what she is looking for in her future.
Trevor, on his part, was a little harder to love, due to the fact that his point of view was initially too conscious of social propriety and unyielding to his yearning for Mellie. But after he more or less accepted his emotions, he became far more dear to me.
Although I think I would like it better if there were some scene after they established their relationship rather than just the courtship. Also, I adored the dueling scenes, especially the sheer mayhem they created.
Tags:
Historical Romance⚔️🏰🐲
Virgin FMC 🌮💦👅
Reformed Rake 🍆💦🤤
Marriage of convenience🤤😳 🥵
Duelling 🤺🗡️⚔️
Weapon use 🗡 ⚔️🔫
Learning intimacy💁👌😍
Bad boy bad girl energy👩❤️👨👥💀
Possessive MMCs💞 💓 💗
Miscommunication😵💫⚠️
Different social classes ✨👑💫
Spicy 🤤😳 🥵
Slow burn 🕯🪔 🧯
Loss of parents (past) 💔🪔🩸
Angst😐😑😬
HEA🔔👰🏼🌠
February 13, 2025
Rules for a Fake Fiance by Katherine Lyons is exactly what the title proclaims. Melinda Smithson has a suitor. One she does not want: her cousin Ronald. Both fathers, hers and his, are totally in favor of the match. She is not. He doesn’t get it. Oh, he’d be fine for someone, just not her. Mr. Anaedsley is a student of her father’s and had been for years. She saw him coming up the drive and must couldn’t put up with both of them today so she ran to try to waylay him and send him away. See where this is going? Trevor Anaedsley is the grandson of a duke, which actually means very little. All Melinda wants is the autonomy to produce the cream she has developed for ladies on her own. Her uncle wants the formula so he can market it.
Melinda is not a proper Regency lady; not at all. Ronnie is an oaf. All he wants to do is write not-great poetry. Trevor is a man of science and a gentleman. All decent characters. It is where the story takes them that is amusing. The plot is decent enough for this genre and the pacing is good. It’s an enjoyable read, which is my objective in reading.
I was invited to read Rules for A Fake Fiance by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #KatherineLyons #RulesForAFakeFiance
Melinda is not a proper Regency lady; not at all. Ronnie is an oaf. All he wants to do is write not-great poetry. Trevor is a man of science and a gentleman. All decent characters. It is where the story takes them that is amusing. The plot is decent enough for this genre and the pacing is good. It’s an enjoyable read, which is my objective in reading.
I was invited to read Rules for A Fake Fiance by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #KatherineLyons #RulesForAFakeFiance
January 26, 2025
Brawls, Crickets and Family Displeasure.
Despite a scientific mind bent, Mellie wants a loving marriage and children but her father doesn’t want her to have a London season. He likes having her helping with his experiments and thinks if she would only marry her half cousin it would keep their mill business in the family. However Mellie finds Ronnie a buffoon and is tired of him importuning her and so when her nemesis, a former pupil of her father, proposes a fake engagement she agrees. Trevor Anaedsley needs to get his grandfather off his back and his allowance restored and Mellie needs to meet suitable men with a view to marriage. What could be more straightforward than introducing his new fiancée to Society with the help of an old friend? He knows that his betrothal to a Cit’s daughter will send shock waves through his family and the Ton but that their eventual breakup when she finds another husband will be met with relief, after all she is totally unsuited to being a duchess one day. However once in London Trevor begins to see a different side to Mellie….
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Despite a scientific mind bent, Mellie wants a loving marriage and children but her father doesn’t want her to have a London season. He likes having her helping with his experiments and thinks if she would only marry her half cousin it would keep their mill business in the family. However Mellie finds Ronnie a buffoon and is tired of him importuning her and so when her nemesis, a former pupil of her father, proposes a fake engagement she agrees. Trevor Anaedsley needs to get his grandfather off his back and his allowance restored and Mellie needs to meet suitable men with a view to marriage. What could be more straightforward than introducing his new fiancée to Society with the help of an old friend? He knows that his betrothal to a Cit’s daughter will send shock waves through his family and the Ton but that their eventual breakup when she finds another husband will be met with relief, after all she is totally unsuited to being a duchess one day. However once in London Trevor begins to see a different side to Mellie….
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 10, 2025
Mellie is desperate, She doesn't want to marry her cousin, she wants to leave, sell her concoction and fall in love. Good thing Trevor, the future Duke of Timby is desperate too. For him to inherit the fortune and the title, he has to get married. And having a fake engagement with Mellie, will not only get Trevor his fortune, but it will get Mellie to London, have her own season and a possibility to meet the man she'll in love with.
This was an interesting one. Fake-dating trope is my favorite romance trope and I love their take on this. And speaking of trope, of course Mellie follows the not-your-ordinary-girl trope because of her science mind.
I do feel like it tried to be a romantic comedy. It's more silly to me than funny. But I'm pretty sure this may work with others. Additionally, I think the lovestory was just okay. Our girl was giving it her all, and I love that part but the reward was just too far. Some of the other characters seem like they were just there.
Like I said, this was just okay. I was intrigued by the potential new couple in this story, which is promising. But I didn't fall in love with the main characters on this one.
* I received an eARC of this book
This was an interesting one. Fake-dating trope is my favorite romance trope and I love their take on this. And speaking of trope, of course Mellie follows the not-your-ordinary-girl trope because of her science mind.
I do feel like it tried to be a romantic comedy. It's more silly to me than funny. But I'm pretty sure this may work with others. Additionally, I think the lovestory was just okay. Our girl was giving it her all, and I love that part but the reward was just too far. Some of the other characters seem like they were just there.
Like I said, this was just okay. I was intrigued by the potential new couple in this story, which is promising. But I didn't fall in love with the main characters on this one.
* I received an eARC of this book
May 17, 2025
This is the first installment of the Rogues Gambit series. With its sparkling banter, eccentric characters, and swoon-worthy romance, it is an absolute delight from start to finish. Melinda Smithson is a breath of fresh air—a heroine who’d rather talk chemistry than couture—and Trevor Anaedsley is the perfect match, equally exasperated and enchanted by her brilliance.
The fake engagement trope is handled with genuine charm and clever twists, and the chemistry between Melinda and Trevor feels both natural and electric. Their journey is full of laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt emotion, all wrapped in the glittering pressure of Regency high society.
If you love science-minded heroines, emotionally intelligent heroes, and a romance that proves the best formulas are the ones you can’t predict, this one’s for you.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The fake engagement trope is handled with genuine charm and clever twists, and the chemistry between Melinda and Trevor feels both natural and electric. Their journey is full of laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt emotion, all wrapped in the glittering pressure of Regency high society.
If you love science-minded heroines, emotionally intelligent heroes, and a romance that proves the best formulas are the ones you can’t predict, this one’s for you.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 29, 2025
3.75 stars.
The politics of regency era romances always catch my attention. What I was not expecting was the constant threat of duels because of men's fragile egos. Trevor made me mad multiple times through this book to where in my head he was not fully worthy of Mellie, but in the end, his speech made me giggle so I guess he can have a pass this time.
The writing was simple to understand, although slow at points. I was not itching to dive back in whenever I but the book down, but when I did pick it up I had a good time. A classic romance book with a dodo bird that had me cackling at the end.
The politics of regency era romances always catch my attention. What I was not expecting was the constant threat of duels because of men's fragile egos. Trevor made me mad multiple times through this book to where in my head he was not fully worthy of Mellie, but in the end, his speech made me giggle so I guess he can have a pass this time.
The writing was simple to understand, although slow at points. I was not itching to dive back in whenever I but the book down, but when I did pick it up I had a good time. A classic romance book with a dodo bird that had me cackling at the end.
February 20, 2025
Entertaining Historical Romance with Humor
She was not duchess material, but to get his family off his back Trevor convinced Melinda to have a fake engagement. In exchange, he would help her to go to London and meet a gentleman to marry. Melinda agreed because she wanted that London season, and she wanted to get away from a half cousin who was most insistent on marrying her. Falling in love was about to upset Trevor and Mellie's plans. Would it matter if Mellie were suitable to be a duchess or not?
I found this story to be entertaining. There were some laugh-out loud moments. I look forward to what comes next in this series.
She was not duchess material, but to get his family off his back Trevor convinced Melinda to have a fake engagement. In exchange, he would help her to go to London and meet a gentleman to marry. Melinda agreed because she wanted that London season, and she wanted to get away from a half cousin who was most insistent on marrying her. Falling in love was about to upset Trevor and Mellie's plans. Would it matter if Mellie were suitable to be a duchess or not?
I found this story to be entertaining. There were some laugh-out loud moments. I look forward to what comes next in this series.
January 28, 2025
I want very much to like this book. It felt like it had the makings of a quirky book like Tessa Dare but it was not. I feel so sorry for Millie. She was a good person, kind, thoughtful, and really just wanted to be loved and not held back by those around her that say they love her. Trevor…. I wanted to view him as charming but he was cruel and childish. No wonder his grandfather cut him off. And he did not do enough to protect her I was trying to let go how I felt about him but it really never got better IMO. I have read other books by this author but this one is just not for me.
February 5, 2025
This is a very amusing historical romance. Our heroine is an intelligent young woman whose father is "new money" , that means he is wealthy but not really high society. He is also a retired tutor who is happiest in his laboratory.
Our hero has fallen out of favour with his family. That means he needs a way to win it back.
Wonderful if slightly silly characters.
The solution brings many giggles and outrageous ideas. It is a steamy read towards the end. Even the ending is funny. I think her swapping would have been more difficult than it was.
Great fun.
Our hero has fallen out of favour with his family. That means he needs a way to win it back.
Wonderful if slightly silly characters.
The solution brings many giggles and outrageous ideas. It is a steamy read towards the end. Even the ending is funny. I think her swapping would have been more difficult than it was.
Great fun.
February 15, 2025
This book, one in the Rogues Gambit series, was a very captivating, original, and well written romance. A bluestocking, bespectacled spinster, a rogues gambling den owner, a secret spy organization, house parties, murder, kidnapping, an evil mastermind of terror to single rich woman of the ton,and so many more plot twists and emotional issues that kept me very entertained. I enjoyed the characters' humorous, witty, and attraction that could not be denied. The young neice was a bonus enjoyment. I can't wait for the book two. I highly recommend reading!
January 30, 2025
Witty and entertaining read. The heroine is a delight and the hero didn't really see her until their temporary arrangements. Both are fighting against family expectations and want to live their lives on their own terms. As it turns out, it is with each other. It is a lively tale with a ruse, circumventing society rules, challenges and discovering what really matters most.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
February 2, 2025
A very fun story with great whit and banter. The plot is pretty basic, a fake romance, a would be duke needing to marry, etc. But what makes it different are the main characters and the depth with which the author creates them. Book one of the series is a hit with Melinda a super smart science brain and Trevor, the improvised duke. Join the fun while they deal with social expectations, family issues, crickets, and more. You will be greatly entertained.
April 5, 2025
“Rules for Fake Finance” explores a fake engagement between Mellie, a science-minded heroine, and Trevor, a future duke. While the premise intrigues, the juvenile writing, flat characters, and awkward dialogue overshadow the story. The silly tone misses the mark as romantic comedy, though Mellie’s determination stands out as a redeeming quality. Potential for future couples feels underdeveloped.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
April 10, 2025
It's the deal of a fake engagement and a trip to London for the season, Trevor Anaedsley agrees to help Melinda Smithson find a real husband. For him it will help gain his inheritance from his grandfather. Only the best laid plans have a few twists and turns. Too many suitors, interfering family and unexpected love. Some humor, angst, pain and the extinct Dodo bird.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
August 2, 2025
The story of Melanie who wishes to find a husband and Trevor who wishes to avoid having to find a wife is a cute storyline. The characters, customs and fashion were very interesting to read about.
The story is very reminiscent of the Bridgerton series, very reminiscent and, for my taste, the sexual descriptions didn’t need to be quite so graphic. Nevertheless, the humor and characters were quite enjoyable.
The story is very reminiscent of the Bridgerton series, very reminiscent and, for my taste, the sexual descriptions didn’t need to be quite so graphic. Nevertheless, the humor and characters were quite enjoyable.
February 22, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
There was much I enjoyed about this story but at times it got a little too silly for my taste . I did like that we didn’t get the standard evil man/evil woman that comes between the lovers
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
There was much I enjoyed about this story but at times it got a little too silly for my taste . I did like that we didn’t get the standard evil man/evil woman that comes between the lovers
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review
January 26, 2025
This book may have actually been good if it did not try so hard to be quirky. I really found the "humor" quite juvenile and not funny.
The characters themselves were okay. The plot is a little off the historical mark.
#netgalley #RulesforaFakeFiance
The characters themselves were okay. The plot is a little off the historical mark.
#netgalley #RulesforaFakeFiance
February 12, 2025
I really didn’t like Trevor as a character, and I wasn’t able to sense the chemistry between him and Mellie.
I would read the author again, but this one wasn’t a favorite.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
I would read the author again, but this one wasn’t a favorite.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC
April 28, 2025
This book was released in 2015 under the title 50 Ways to Ruin a Rake by Jade Lee. I wish publishers would be upfront about rereleases under different titles and authors. The Duke and Duchess are featured in an earlier book, What the Groom Wants.
August 6, 2025
A very fun story with great wit and banter. The plot is pretty basic: a fake romance, a would-be duke needing to marry, etc. But what makes it different are the main characters and the depth with which the author creates them.
February 15, 2025
This book, one in the Rogues Gambit series, was a very captivating, original, and well written romance. A bluestocking, bespectacled spinster, a rogues gambling den owner, a secret spy organization, house parties, murder, kidnapping, an evil mastermind of terror to single rich woman of the ton,and so many more plot twists and emotional issues that kept me very entertained. I enjoyed the characters' humorous, witty, and attraction that could not be denied. The young neice was a bonus enjoyment. I can't wait for the book two. I highly recommend reading!
February 15, 2025
Fun, delivering to the reader exactly what it promises in the blurb.
Good read for a weekend.
Good read for a weekend.
February 27, 2025
Fake engagement trope. Lots of fun!
March 20, 2025
It was a scam.
Their engagement was a sham to get her away from having to marry her cousin and him the funds back his grandfather had cut off until it turned real.
Their engagement was a sham to get her away from having to marry her cousin and him the funds back his grandfather had cut off until it turned real.
October 18, 2025
Delightful and heart felt romance.
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