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Wallflower Weddings #2
Winning Miss Wakefield
She's got nothing left to lose…
With her fiancé suddenly engaged to another and her reputation in tatters, Merribeth Wakefield needs a bold plan to reclaim her life. She must be brave. Confident. She must … kiss a rake? The suggestion is ludicrous! Yet when Merribeth finds herself alone with the dark and brooding Lord Knightswold, suddenly the plan doesn't seem so farfetched. So she does something she never thought she'd do—she kisses him.
But he has everything to gain…
The Marquess of Knightswold—Bane to most—has no use for the affections of women. Well, none lasting longer than a single night. A plot for revenge weighs heavy on his mind, leaving no room for romance. But then a shy, witty miss borrows a kiss from him in a darkened room, and everything he thought he knew about innocent debutantes vanishes along with her.
When a twist of fate brings Merribeth within Bane's grasp, he'll have to resist her charms—or risk losing everything—for the sake of his heart.
With her fiancé suddenly engaged to another and her reputation in tatters, Merribeth Wakefield needs a bold plan to reclaim her life. She must be brave. Confident. She must … kiss a rake? The suggestion is ludicrous! Yet when Merribeth finds herself alone with the dark and brooding Lord Knightswold, suddenly the plan doesn't seem so farfetched. So she does something she never thought she'd do—she kisses him.
But he has everything to gain…
The Marquess of Knightswold—Bane to most—has no use for the affections of women. Well, none lasting longer than a single night. A plot for revenge weighs heavy on his mind, leaving no room for romance. But then a shy, witty miss borrows a kiss from him in a darkened room, and everything he thought he knew about innocent debutantes vanishes along with her.
When a twist of fate brings Merribeth within Bane's grasp, he'll have to resist her charms—or risk losing everything—for the sake of his heart.
263 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 10, 2014
83 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
About the author
Vivienne Lorret
37 books1,306 followersUSA Today bestselling author VIVIENNE LORRET writes fun and steamy Regency historical romances. She lives in the Midwest where she coaxes words out of giant mugs of tea and attempts to jot them down before they can escape. For her entire catalog of books, including the Liars’ Club, her latest series from Avon, please visit www.vivlorret.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 17, 2020
I began reading this book on Feb.21 for a buddy read. It did not really draw me in until the 56% mark and even then, it didn't hold my interest for very long. I took a two-week break from the book and had to force myself to finish it for the buddy read. I even skipped reading the love scene just so I can finish the book quicker! I can now confidently say that this author's books are not for me.
I don't know what went wrong or why this book didn't work for me. The attraction between the main characters was there (but maybe not the chemistry?), the proximity and secret meetings (though not always intentional) of the MCs was there (but the dialogue are kind of dull), but nothing really ever happened to move the plot along, if there was one. I thought the plot was for the heroine to become more confident and flirtatious, so more guys can be attracted to her, so she can have her reputation repaired, but nope! But was she ever truly ruined in the first place??? She supposedly had an understanding with a male friend for five years. When he announced that he's in love and plans to marry someone else, our heroine's reputation is ruined. Yeah, I don't buy it.
I distrusted and disliked the hero's aunt till the very end. I wish she had her comeuppance. Well, she kind of had one, but I didn't think it was harsh enough. Her attempt at making amends was glossed over in the epilogue and I really wanted that closure. Oh, well.
I don't know what went wrong or why this book didn't work for me. The attraction between the main characters was there (but maybe not the chemistry?), the proximity and secret meetings (though not always intentional) of the MCs was there (but the dialogue are kind of dull), but nothing really ever happened to move the plot along, if there was one. I thought the plot was for the heroine to become more confident and flirtatious, so more guys can be attracted to her, so she can have her reputation repaired, but nope! But was she ever truly ruined in the first place??? She supposedly had an understanding with a male friend for five years. When he announced that he's in love and plans to marry someone else, our heroine's reputation is ruined. Yeah, I don't buy it.
I distrusted and disliked the hero's aunt till the very end. I wish she had her comeuppance. Well, she kind of had one, but I didn't think it was harsh enough. Her attempt at making amends was glossed over in the epilogue and I really wanted that closure. Oh, well.
maybe
February 16, 2020Winning Miss Wakefield
vs In Total Surrender
. I thought I'd seen this cover before.
vs In Total Surrender
. I thought I'd seen this cover before. 
May 26, 2016
But she was inside him now, tangled up in the jumble of knots that formed his entire being. It had all started with that damned kiss she’d borrowed. He wished he could give it back. Take her in his arms, crush her mouth to his, and kiss her until every fiber of her was dragged from him.
I absolutely loved this book!!
Bane lost everything because of this evil grandfather who could not stand that his son married a gypsy woman. And for years, Bane has sworn revenge against those who made him and his family suffer. But then he crosses paths with the innocent Merribeth, and he can’t help but be enchanted by her shyness and wittiness when she borrows a kiss from him. Bane never has any use for women, except for a brief moment of pleasure, but Merribeth is nothing like he’s used to, and it takes everything he has to resist the pull between them. Nothing is more important than his vengeance. But the more time he spends with her, the more his obsession grows, and soon he must choose – revenge or his heart.
Merribeth Wakefield’s reputation is ruined because her fiancé suddenly declared he was in love with someone else. And with the help of her aunt and her aunt’s friend, they have come up with a plan to reclaim her ex- fiancé – she must kiss a rake. To Merribeth the idea is ludicrous, but then she finds herself alone with Lord Knightswold, and suddenly she can’t think of anything but kissing this rake. And because with him she finds she has no problem being just herself and being brave, she borrows a kiss.
Then a twist of fate, or perhaps an evil plot, brings them together again, and both Merribeth and Bane has to resist what they feel for each other. Merribeth because she can’t lose her heart to a rake set against marriage who only cares about revenge, and Bane who can’t risk his chance at finally getting vengeance even if it means denying his heart.
The romance in this book was fantastic! I loved the banter between Merribeth and Bane. Their chemistry was scorching, and I loved every moment of it. Bane was so wickedly sexy, and I adored how he called Merribeth Venus! And the fact that with Bane Merribeth could just be herself made me very happy.
A great HR is like a rare gift, that makes your heart swoon and this was a fantastic HR. The storyline was captivating and the romance just perfect. I cannot wait to read the next book, especially after all the very vague but interesting clues given in this book.
A must read for all HR lovers.
May 28, 2018
4.5 stars
This was just lovely! I adored, ADORED the exchanges between Merribeth and Bane, aka Simon. The banter between them is fantastic, the chemistry between them LEAPS off of the pages, and I was grinning like a madwoman throughout half of the book.
This was just lovely! I adored, ADORED the exchanges between Merribeth and Bane, aka Simon. The banter between them is fantastic, the chemistry between them LEAPS off of the pages, and I was grinning like a madwoman throughout half of the book.
April 8, 2018
Currently re reading the end of this novel which I love love love! Also I just realized that I love that cover! It’s gorgeous!
May 26, 2019
This felt particularly contrived to me. The pretense, the plot, a whole bunch of awfully-convenient-yet-highly-unlikely happenings. The couple did have a few sweet moments. This is the first book I've read from this author, I would consider trying another some day, but I won't be rushing out to do it anytime soon.
August 26, 2015
4.5/5. Great writing. Fantastic dialogue. Protagonists likeable with sizzling chemistry. My one problem is the backstory of convoluted revenge plot did not all jell together. Highly enjoyable.
July 16, 2014
If I feel tears welling up as I finish a book I consider it one of the best romances I've ever read. Winning Miss Wakefield fits the bill and has earned a spot in my heart.
July 19, 2014
Merribeth thought she had her entire life planned out. After a longtime understanding with a childhood friend, she thought she would be married and have a stable future. She had even made her own wedding dress. But her life got turned on its ear when her intended told her he was in love with another woman and planned to make his future with her.
Now, Merribeth’s on the edge of society, with tongues wagging about what she could have done to make her man cry off. She has no prospects and is on the verge of social ruin. Until her aunt’s old friend Eve comes up with a plan to win Clairmore back and restore her reputation. The idea is to make him jealous. Flirt with a rake. Gain some confidence. And soon Clairmore will see the error of his ways and leave his new love behind.
It just so happens that she finds herself alone with the rakish Bane, Lord Knightswold, straight away. Eve’s ideas, combined with his enticing words, and assuredly touchable hair, make her bold enough to kiss him. But her sense and upbringing keep their liaison short, and she flees, never expecting to see him again.
Of course, that’s not the end. A house party throws the two of them back together for two long weeks, but it seems that nothing can ever come of the attraction between them. For one thing, Bane has never been interesting in debauching an innocent… And for another, he has forsworn marriage and plans never to continue his family line. So their flirtations can take them nowhere. Or can they?
I found that I enjoyed the story more than I thought I would, but my feelings for it did not go deep. Merribeth is very not developed as a character… she is kind of benign. But I was interested in Bane. His backstory is well fleshed out and I understood his anger and desire for revenge. Of course, the wrongs done to him in his past made me want him to find the happiness that have escaped him for so long. The progression of his relationship with Merribeth was fairly predictable, but I did enjoy the journey. There is some fairly good sexual tension between them –and I could feel his resolve falter just a little more every time they are together.
I felt like the foil to their relationship was a little weak and felt somewhat contrived. The villain’s motivation didn’t make sense and for all of the teeth gnashing, it all worked out rather easily. It wasn’t bad… like I said, I enjoyed it. It was a pleasant afternoon read. It just wasn’t very deep and my enjoyment was largely superficial.
Rating: B-
*ARC Provided by Avon
Now, Merribeth’s on the edge of society, with tongues wagging about what she could have done to make her man cry off. She has no prospects and is on the verge of social ruin. Until her aunt’s old friend Eve comes up with a plan to win Clairmore back and restore her reputation. The idea is to make him jealous. Flirt with a rake. Gain some confidence. And soon Clairmore will see the error of his ways and leave his new love behind.
It just so happens that she finds herself alone with the rakish Bane, Lord Knightswold, straight away. Eve’s ideas, combined with his enticing words, and assuredly touchable hair, make her bold enough to kiss him. But her sense and upbringing keep their liaison short, and she flees, never expecting to see him again.
Of course, that’s not the end. A house party throws the two of them back together for two long weeks, but it seems that nothing can ever come of the attraction between them. For one thing, Bane has never been interesting in debauching an innocent… And for another, he has forsworn marriage and plans never to continue his family line. So their flirtations can take them nowhere. Or can they?
I found that I enjoyed the story more than I thought I would, but my feelings for it did not go deep. Merribeth is very not developed as a character… she is kind of benign. But I was interested in Bane. His backstory is well fleshed out and I understood his anger and desire for revenge. Of course, the wrongs done to him in his past made me want him to find the happiness that have escaped him for so long. The progression of his relationship with Merribeth was fairly predictable, but I did enjoy the journey. There is some fairly good sexual tension between them –and I could feel his resolve falter just a little more every time they are together.
I felt like the foil to their relationship was a little weak and felt somewhat contrived. The villain’s motivation didn’t make sense and for all of the teeth gnashing, it all worked out rather easily. It wasn’t bad… like I said, I enjoyed it. It was a pleasant afternoon read. It just wasn’t very deep and my enjoyment was largely superficial.
Rating: B-
*ARC Provided by Avon
May 30, 2014
It started with a kiss, that led to another, that led to another. Words were spoken, caresses were given. Feelings that were supposed to remain under wraps burst through their bindings, searching for a place to take root and flourish. Just as they blossomed, they were denied any chance of nourishment. They didn’t die, didn’t fade into memory. They remained…and survived when they shouldn’t have.
Bane and Merribeth’s love grew from so many different things: their ease of conversation, the way they knew each other even in darkness, the similar tragedies they suffered as children. Their friendship began so unexpectedly that night in the study that it took them both by surprise. The more time they spent together, the more it was obvious how well suited they were for one another.
But loving someone wasn’t part of Bane’s plans. He wanted revenge more than he wanted a woman. It was his singular purpose in life and he could not, would not, allow anything to deter him. He tried to keep his relationship with Merribeth in a box because what she made him feel scared him to death and unsettled him in ways he didn’t want to think about. But what they had wasn’t meant to be confined.
Betrayal of the worst kind brought their relationship to a screeching halt and it seemed as though their chance to love for a lifetime was gone. It wasn’t, and their separation proved what so many believe to be true: absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Ms. Lorret has penned an incredibly moving tale of a man hell-bent on revenge, a woman with a ruined reputation, and a love that takes them by surprise and has them reaching for a future together.
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
Bane and Merribeth’s love grew from so many different things: their ease of conversation, the way they knew each other even in darkness, the similar tragedies they suffered as children. Their friendship began so unexpectedly that night in the study that it took them both by surprise. The more time they spent together, the more it was obvious how well suited they were for one another.
But loving someone wasn’t part of Bane’s plans. He wanted revenge more than he wanted a woman. It was his singular purpose in life and he could not, would not, allow anything to deter him. He tried to keep his relationship with Merribeth in a box because what she made him feel scared him to death and unsettled him in ways he didn’t want to think about. But what they had wasn’t meant to be confined.
Betrayal of the worst kind brought their relationship to a screeching halt and it seemed as though their chance to love for a lifetime was gone. It wasn’t, and their separation proved what so many believe to be true: absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Ms. Lorret has penned an incredibly moving tale of a man hell-bent on revenge, a woman with a ruined reputation, and a love that takes them by surprise and has them reaching for a future together.
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
May 21, 2025
4.5
The man destroyed his family and ostracized him for his gypsy blood so when Bane's grandfather die, he's not sorry about it. In fact, it brings him a certain comfort to think that in inheriting everything, he can somehow get his revenge from the cruel man. For Bane, it's clear ; he'll never marry nor sire an heir. The title of Marquess of Knightwold will end with him. But what if there was a woman who had the means to make him lose his contenance?
Everyone knows that she's ruined, now that her betrothed for the last five years declared his love to an other woman. So Merribeth accepted an invitation to a ball in the hope of restoring her reputation. Her aunt's friend have a peculiar idea to propose: spend time with a rake to make her ex fiancé realized what he's missing. Even if Merribeth recognize the theory is a little far-fetched, the other woman is convincing. But it's totally concidentally that she stumble upon the perfect candidate. Or is it? Merribeth and Bane always seem to find themselves alone in a room. Almost as if fate was toying with them...
This book was a pleasant surprise! Don't know why I should be surprised because it's not my first Vivienne Lorret and she wrote many amazing books. I didn't expect to love Merri and Bane so much or to enjoy their romance that much. I think the first reason they got along so well is that they're both loner who prefer a quiet evening than mingle with the ton. The heroine is so smart and particularly perceptive. Bane might be a flirt, but his charisma comes from his honesty. I loved the nickname he gave Merri.
Not so long ago, I had never heard about Vivienne Lorret before and now I can't get enough of her books!
The man destroyed his family and ostracized him for his gypsy blood so when Bane's grandfather die, he's not sorry about it. In fact, it brings him a certain comfort to think that in inheriting everything, he can somehow get his revenge from the cruel man. For Bane, it's clear ; he'll never marry nor sire an heir. The title of Marquess of Knightwold will end with him. But what if there was a woman who had the means to make him lose his contenance?
Everyone knows that she's ruined, now that her betrothed for the last five years declared his love to an other woman. So Merribeth accepted an invitation to a ball in the hope of restoring her reputation. Her aunt's friend have a peculiar idea to propose: spend time with a rake to make her ex fiancé realized what he's missing. Even if Merribeth recognize the theory is a little far-fetched, the other woman is convincing. But it's totally concidentally that she stumble upon the perfect candidate. Or is it? Merribeth and Bane always seem to find themselves alone in a room. Almost as if fate was toying with them...
This book was a pleasant surprise! Don't know why I should be surprised because it's not my first Vivienne Lorret and she wrote many amazing books. I didn't expect to love Merri and Bane so much or to enjoy their romance that much. I think the first reason they got along so well is that they're both loner who prefer a quiet evening than mingle with the ton. The heroine is so smart and particularly perceptive. Bane might be a flirt, but his charisma comes from his honesty. I loved the nickname he gave Merri.
Not so long ago, I had never heard about Vivienne Lorret before and now I can't get enough of her books!
June 6, 2016
3.5 stars
Despite an eye roll-y revenge plot at its center, the sparkling rapport and swoon worthy chemistry between the main couple made this book a really enjoyable read. Bane and Merribeth shared so many great moments: their scorching first kiss at a party, Merribeth scaling Bane’s balcony and, my personal favorite, the embroidered handkerchief that comes to mean everything to them. The friendships Merribeth shared with her group of (mostly former) wallflowers were a particular high point, as was her bond with her bluestocking aunt, Sophie (why didn’t she get a book???!). I did find the author’s prose a little repetitive at times but overall my response was positive enough to make me want to read more, especially Delaney’s book because she sounds like the kind of rebellious ginger heroine I love.
Despite an eye roll-y revenge plot at its center, the sparkling rapport and swoon worthy chemistry between the main couple made this book a really enjoyable read. Bane and Merribeth shared so many great moments: their scorching first kiss at a party, Merribeth scaling Bane’s balcony and, my personal favorite, the embroidered handkerchief that comes to mean everything to them. The friendships Merribeth shared with her group of (mostly former) wallflowers were a particular high point, as was her bond with her bluestocking aunt, Sophie (why didn’t she get a book???!). I did find the author’s prose a little repetitive at times but overall my response was positive enough to make me want to read more, especially Delaney’s book because she sounds like the kind of rebellious ginger heroine I love.
September 10, 2016
Bane.....Need I say more?
Full review coming
Full review coming
June 11, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading
When I started Vivienne Lorret's Winning Miss Wakefield my first thought, "this reminds me of Cruel Intentions". For of you who don't know that movie, Cruel Intentions was made in the 90s and starred Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon, and Ryan Phillippe. Anyway, the revenge plot and the wager in Winning Miss Wakefield is what reminded me of Cruel Intentions.
Miss Merribeth Wakefield ended up finding out some devastating news. The guy she has been waiting for forever decides he's in love with someone else. I know tragic. So, Lady Eve Sterling decides to take her under her wing and help Merribeth get her man back. All she has to do is flirt with a rake.
Now Eve is diabolical in the story, and you don't see how manipulative she is until the end. Granted you see hints throughout the story. Now Eve will do whatever it takes to takedown who gets in her way, especially her nephew, Marquess of Knightswold (aka Bane).
Bane has no wish to marry or have children. Actually he would love to see the line die with him. However, Eve presents him with a temptation that he can't seem to resist, Merribeth.
These are the key players in the house party that Eve is hosting at her family estate. All Bane has to do is resist bedding anyone while at the house party and he gets the information he desires. If he fails Eve gets his prize possession. Sounds like an easy task. Okay, maybe night not.
I loved Winning Miss Wakefield. It's fueled by revenge and diabolical deeds, and one person is stuck in middle, Merribeth. I love how Vivienne brings all this together to bring I don't know how to describe it. It was amazing. I love the Cruel Intention feel, and I don't think that was the intention of the author. However, it worked. So, if you are looking for a read that has revenge and diabolical plans, you might want to checkout Winning Miss Wakefield.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss
When I started Vivienne Lorret's Winning Miss Wakefield my first thought, "this reminds me of Cruel Intentions". For of you who don't know that movie, Cruel Intentions was made in the 90s and starred Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon, and Ryan Phillippe. Anyway, the revenge plot and the wager in Winning Miss Wakefield is what reminded me of Cruel Intentions.
Miss Merribeth Wakefield ended up finding out some devastating news. The guy she has been waiting for forever decides he's in love with someone else. I know tragic. So, Lady Eve Sterling decides to take her under her wing and help Merribeth get her man back. All she has to do is flirt with a rake.
Now Eve is diabolical in the story, and you don't see how manipulative she is until the end. Granted you see hints throughout the story. Now Eve will do whatever it takes to takedown who gets in her way, especially her nephew, Marquess of Knightswold (aka Bane).
Bane has no wish to marry or have children. Actually he would love to see the line die with him. However, Eve presents him with a temptation that he can't seem to resist, Merribeth.
These are the key players in the house party that Eve is hosting at her family estate. All Bane has to do is resist bedding anyone while at the house party and he gets the information he desires. If he fails Eve gets his prize possession. Sounds like an easy task. Okay, maybe night not.
I loved Winning Miss Wakefield. It's fueled by revenge and diabolical deeds, and one person is stuck in middle, Merribeth. I love how Vivienne brings all this together to bring I don't know how to describe it. It was amazing. I love the Cruel Intention feel, and I don't think that was the intention of the author. However, it worked. So, if you are looking for a read that has revenge and diabolical plans, you might want to checkout Winning Miss Wakefield.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss
May 6, 2016
This second book in Ms. Lorrett’s Wallflower Weddings series was as good as the first book, but more diabolical in plot and feel.
The heroine, Merribeth, was a bit too meek at the start of the story, but by the end of the book she finds her stride and strength.
I truly adored the hero! I think he made this book worth the read. I thoroughly enjoyed him and his journey to his happily ever after. He did a great job hiding his true self from the ton, but deep down lurked a man of gold.
I liked the awkwardness of the romance in the beginning, and following those two was a joy.
If you’re a fan of “jilted” tropes, this one is very well written, fast paced and even has a few surprises I didn’t see coming.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
The heroine, Merribeth, was a bit too meek at the start of the story, but by the end of the book she finds her stride and strength.
I truly adored the hero! I think he made this book worth the read. I thoroughly enjoyed him and his journey to his happily ever after. He did a great job hiding his true self from the ton, but deep down lurked a man of gold.
I liked the awkwardness of the romance in the beginning, and following those two was a joy.
If you’re a fan of “jilted” tropes, this one is very well written, fast paced and even has a few surprises I didn’t see coming.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
November 27, 2019
This book had a hard time keeping me engaged. You can clearly see that Merribeth’s heart wasn’t broken in the beginning, yet for someone with so much spirit, she was pretty lackluster. And I kept getting distracted by the tooth thing.
May 2, 2018
I can't begin to describe how much I loved this story! I loved the storyline and the chemistry between the hero and heroine was intense. I loved every minute of it. The hero was so romantic *swoon* . I did not want to put this book down!
January 21, 2020
I haven’t read more than one page of this in a week. I think I’m throwing in the towel on this one.
February 28, 2022
Bane is officially on my list of favorite historical romance heroes.
+++
In "Daring Miss DanversDaring Miss Danvers" we see Merribeth anticipating a proposal from her long time beau Mr. Clairmore. "Winning Miss Wakefield" opens with Merribeth dealing with the fallout when that man basically rescinded their understanding to marry a vicar's daughter. Much speculation is made whether he even thought about how that would reflect on Merribeth--who was publicly making plans for her wedding and future with him. Personally I think he was just too much of an idiot to take note.
In comes Merribeth's guardian, her Aunt Sophie and her friend Eve. Eve's advice is simple--make Clairmore jealous by flirting with a rake. Kissing said rake would be even better in fact. And thus does the story take off.
I really enjoyed this book. Merribeth is a bit of a goose at times, but I loved her and Bane together. Bane is, from the first moment he shows up ready to take his inheritance from his cruel miserly grandfather's cold dead hands, an intriguing vexing man. Lorret does one thing really well in her heroes--they tend to realize their feelings for the heroine first and then realize they aren't good enough for said heroine. Bane is no exception. He figures out early on what Merribeth means to him (even if he doesn't say the "L" word) and its a fight for him to do what would make her happy in the long run.
I do think his revenge plot was a bit ridiculous, but given how everyone described his grandfather maybe not.
Merribeth meanwhile really just needed someone to give her a stern talking to about what she wanted. What she really wanted. I was disappointed that her friends (Emma, Delaney and Penelope) have a much reduced role here. It makes sense, but at the same time I really think Merribeth needed her friends to snap her back into reality. Also support, as her Aunt Sophie meant well but was much too practical of a woman to understand Merribeth's problem and Eve...well. She never comes across as trustworthy in my opinion.
As a continuation of that set of friends' romances this was a good addition. Delaney, who is missing at the end of this book (off to Scotland), gets her romance in the next one and I have to wonder how that will turn out. We're briefly introduced to her love interest (Mr. Croft) in this book, but as no one seems to have a good opinion of him I have to wonder what occurs to put Delaney in such a snit.
+++
In "Daring Miss DanversDaring Miss Danvers" we see Merribeth anticipating a proposal from her long time beau Mr. Clairmore. "Winning Miss Wakefield" opens with Merribeth dealing with the fallout when that man basically rescinded their understanding to marry a vicar's daughter. Much speculation is made whether he even thought about how that would reflect on Merribeth--who was publicly making plans for her wedding and future with him. Personally I think he was just too much of an idiot to take note.
In comes Merribeth's guardian, her Aunt Sophie and her friend Eve. Eve's advice is simple--make Clairmore jealous by flirting with a rake. Kissing said rake would be even better in fact. And thus does the story take off.
I really enjoyed this book. Merribeth is a bit of a goose at times, but I loved her and Bane together. Bane is, from the first moment he shows up ready to take his inheritance from his cruel miserly grandfather's cold dead hands, an intriguing vexing man. Lorret does one thing really well in her heroes--they tend to realize their feelings for the heroine first and then realize they aren't good enough for said heroine. Bane is no exception. He figures out early on what Merribeth means to him (even if he doesn't say the "L" word) and its a fight for him to do what would make her happy in the long run.
I do think his revenge plot was a bit ridiculous, but given how everyone described his grandfather maybe not.
Merribeth meanwhile really just needed someone to give her a stern talking to about what she wanted. What she really wanted. I was disappointed that her friends (Emma, Delaney and Penelope) have a much reduced role here. It makes sense, but at the same time I really think Merribeth needed her friends to snap her back into reality. Also support, as her Aunt Sophie meant well but was much too practical of a woman to understand Merribeth's problem and Eve...well. She never comes across as trustworthy in my opinion.
As a continuation of that set of friends' romances this was a good addition. Delaney, who is missing at the end of this book (off to Scotland), gets her romance in the next one and I have to wonder how that will turn out. We're briefly introduced to her love interest (Mr. Croft) in this book, but as no one seems to have a good opinion of him I have to wonder what occurs to put Delaney in such a snit.
June 11, 2014
"Winning Miss Wakefield" is such an interesting title. When you hear these words, you think of a man who is so in love with Miss Wakefield that he tries everything to win her heart, or in a more twisted way he wants Miss Wakefield in order to accomplish something and then cast her aside. Do you like wagers? then you're going to love this book.
Merribeth Wakefield has had her reputation ripped to shreds all because her fiance of five years (FIVE YEARS) has decided he wanted to marry someone else, not giving a care as to what that would do to Merribeth's reputation.
Now being shunned by the ton, a friend of Merribeth's aunt, Eve, comes up with the ridiculous and daring idea for a way to boost her confidence, she has to kiss a rake.
The Marques of Knightswold also known as Bane has no time for marriage minded women. His arrangement for woman are those of a single night and nothing more, until he meets Miss Wakefield.
His whole life, Bane has set out to seek revenge against the people that caused his world to crumple at his feet, over and over again. Merribeth threatened to ruin his revenge by making him want things that he should have, yes I said should have.
Would kissing the most notorious rake save Merebeth's reputation? Would Bane give up on his revenge and choose to be happy? Or would a unforeseen (which I did see by the way) enemy ruin both their hopes and dreams and destroy what little happiness that they have? Find out in the second installment of "The Wallflower Wedding Series".
Vivienne Lorret had a great idea when it came to this series, but I got a little confuse some of the time. The wagers between Bane and his aunt were weird and also the incident that happened to one of Merribeth's friend. I don't know if it was talked about in the first book, but I really want to know about the incident.
I feel mean saying this but the writing didn't really draw me in as much as I wanted to, I just wanted to know what happened at the end and it did not really come as a surprise for me. The way the book was going, I knew that was going to be the outcome. Other than that everything was good.
Merribeth Wakefield has had her reputation ripped to shreds all because her fiance of five years (FIVE YEARS) has decided he wanted to marry someone else, not giving a care as to what that would do to Merribeth's reputation.
Now being shunned by the ton, a friend of Merribeth's aunt, Eve, comes up with the ridiculous and daring idea for a way to boost her confidence, she has to kiss a rake.
The Marques of Knightswold also known as Bane has no time for marriage minded women. His arrangement for woman are those of a single night and nothing more, until he meets Miss Wakefield.
His whole life, Bane has set out to seek revenge against the people that caused his world to crumple at his feet, over and over again. Merribeth threatened to ruin his revenge by making him want things that he should have, yes I said should have.
Would kissing the most notorious rake save Merebeth's reputation? Would Bane give up on his revenge and choose to be happy? Or would a unforeseen (which I did see by the way) enemy ruin both their hopes and dreams and destroy what little happiness that they have? Find out in the second installment of "The Wallflower Wedding Series".
Vivienne Lorret had a great idea when it came to this series, but I got a little confuse some of the time. The wagers between Bane and his aunt were weird and also the incident that happened to one of Merribeth's friend. I don't know if it was talked about in the first book, but I really want to know about the incident.
I feel mean saying this but the writing didn't really draw me in as much as I wanted to, I just wanted to know what happened at the end and it did not really come as a surprise for me. The way the book was going, I knew that was going to be the outcome. Other than that everything was good.
June 7, 2014
Merribeth Wakefield saw her parents get washed overboard at the age of 10 and has been living with her aunt since. She has been betrayed and ruined by one she thought was a friend, not a good thing for a wallflower. All she wants form life is certainty- stability. She is ready to break out of her shell; she has nothing left to lose.
Bane, the Marquess of Knightswold, is a consummate gambler and rake. He is handsome and you can see the Gypsy he has in his blood. He despised his grandfather, who he was sure was the devil incarnate. He cares for no one and is only seeking revenge.
As Merribeth and Bane are thrown together at a two week house party, both under duress, they form a friendship. She is there to regain her reputation and he is there to win a bet and come one step closer to his revenge. They each find it easy to confide in and trust the other. He offers to give her lessons in flirting, but quickly finds it backfiring. They keep each other off balance in a charming way. She learns of his need for revenge and informs him he is doing it wrong and is falling in line with his dead grandfather’s wishes. Once again Ms Lorret uses charming and snappy conversation as well as compelling secondary plots and characters to keep you engaged while waiting for the HEA. Bane’s grand gesture was almost tissue worthy, well done. I think Ms. Lorret is an author to follow!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Bane, the Marquess of Knightswold, is a consummate gambler and rake. He is handsome and you can see the Gypsy he has in his blood. He despised his grandfather, who he was sure was the devil incarnate. He cares for no one and is only seeking revenge.
As Merribeth and Bane are thrown together at a two week house party, both under duress, they form a friendship. She is there to regain her reputation and he is there to win a bet and come one step closer to his revenge. They each find it easy to confide in and trust the other. He offers to give her lessons in flirting, but quickly finds it backfiring. They keep each other off balance in a charming way. She learns of his need for revenge and informs him he is doing it wrong and is falling in line with his dead grandfather’s wishes. Once again Ms Lorret uses charming and snappy conversation as well as compelling secondary plots and characters to keep you engaged while waiting for the HEA. Bane’s grand gesture was almost tissue worthy, well done. I think Ms. Lorret is an author to follow!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2014
Ms. Lorret, More Please! FAST!
Miss Merribeth Wakefield's almost fiance has just broken up with her after a five year "understanding". This development has tarnished her reputation, but Lady Eve Sterling has just the remedy: Kiss a rake. That rake turns out to be Bane, the Marquess of Knightswold. Bane is determined not to marry. He has only one thing on his mind: Revenge . . . and Miss Wakefield? Maybe there are two things on his mind now that he has met his Venus.
The ending of this book is the most romantic scenario I have ever read! This author gives us the most beautiful romance wrapped up with drama, humor and mystery. This intriguing plot keeps the reader flipping the pages with eager anticipation, while also making the reader want to savor every moment. Lorret's characters are unique, fun and complex. The H and h are perfect for each other. Every encounter sizzles. The author gives us the understanding needed to fully relate to all the characters, the good and the bad. The dialogue makes one want to join in, too. Vivienne Lorret is my new favorite romance author. We need more of her wonderful stories!
Miss Merribeth Wakefield's almost fiance has just broken up with her after a five year "understanding". This development has tarnished her reputation, but Lady Eve Sterling has just the remedy: Kiss a rake. That rake turns out to be Bane, the Marquess of Knightswold. Bane is determined not to marry. He has only one thing on his mind: Revenge . . . and Miss Wakefield? Maybe there are two things on his mind now that he has met his Venus.
The ending of this book is the most romantic scenario I have ever read! This author gives us the most beautiful romance wrapped up with drama, humor and mystery. This intriguing plot keeps the reader flipping the pages with eager anticipation, while also making the reader want to savor every moment. Lorret's characters are unique, fun and complex. The H and h are perfect for each other. Every encounter sizzles. The author gives us the understanding needed to fully relate to all the characters, the good and the bad. The dialogue makes one want to join in, too. Vivienne Lorret is my new favorite romance author. We need more of her wonderful stories!
May 17, 2014
At first I was a little lost because I was trying to remember what had happened to Merribeth and once I was enlightened (like on page two or three.) I remembered feeling angry when I had read her back story in "Daring Miss Danvers." Poor girl waited five years to get a proposal only to hear that the idiot had fallen in love with someone else. Her reputation is in tatters because everyone believes there is something wrong with her. Her sponsor, Lady Eve, comes up with a plan that's quiet absurd but the only thing that might win Merribeth's suitor back.
Well the resolution of her story was well thought and really well written! Vivienne Lorret won my admiration from this story. The plot was swift and had me hanging on the edge of my seat (mainly because I was anxious to find out what Lady Eve was planning.) Bane was a babe but not in the dashing hero sort of way. He was the brooding, quiet type and a bit of an introvert which really made me happy. The story was adorable and I was happy for Merribeth to find her HEA.
Well the resolution of her story was well thought and really well written! Vivienne Lorret won my admiration from this story. The plot was swift and had me hanging on the edge of my seat (mainly because I was anxious to find out what Lady Eve was planning.) Bane was a babe but not in the dashing hero sort of way. He was the brooding, quiet type and a bit of an introvert which really made me happy. The story was adorable and I was happy for Merribeth to find her HEA.
October 14, 2014
Standard romance fare, it was neither infuriating nor particularly memorable. I've actually forgotten a lot of what happened and I just read it last week. Still, if it didn't stick with me that's because it didn't incite feelings of adulation or rage, and any time a book manages to not disgust me, I count that as a win. If you're in the mood for a sweet, forgettable romance, this should do the trick.
January 27, 2016
Lorret gets everything right. Interesting characters, fun dialogue, an intriguing plot and just the right level of emotion. A new favorite.
Note: The heat level is fairly low in Lorret's books. I normally like a bit more spice, but I didn't mind or miss it in the slightest. The chemistry is still electric even if not very graphic.
Note: The heat level is fairly low in Lorret's books. I normally like a bit more spice, but I didn't mind or miss it in the slightest. The chemistry is still electric even if not very graphic.
July 15, 2014
Loved it!
Loved it!
Absolutely loved the interactions between Merribeth and Vane. Was so much fun watching Bane, aconfirmed rake fall, in love. The story held my interest and I found it totally entertaining. Highly recommend it!
Loved it!
Absolutely loved the interactions between Merribeth and Vane. Was so much fun watching Bane, aconfirmed rake fall, in love. The story held my interest and I found it totally entertaining. Highly recommend it!
July 28, 2014
Great book. Yet another one to have me crying like I lost my best friend lol. THIS is why I love regency romance novels. I get so into them. I've genre hopped for years until I landed upon my very first Rakes and Rogues series. Now I'm stuck and never leaving.
May 30, 2015
This was a fun one. Going to read everything Vivienne Lorret has written now.
November 1, 2016
Better than book 1--liked the story and characters more, even though they are related.
May 21, 2019
Fun, page-turning story. Great for an afternoon read.
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