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The Rakes of Fallow Hall #2
The Devilish Mr. Danvers
For the first time in her life, Hedley Sinclair holds the keys to her own future. She's inherited the crumbling Greyson Park, but the disrepair does nothing to dissuade her. No one will ever lock her up again or attempt to take away what's hers. No one except Rafe Danvers—the charming, fiendish man from Fallow Hall. He's determined to claim Greyson Park, but if Hedley isn't careful, he'll claim her heart as well.
Rafe has every intention of ridding Greyson Park of the conniving Sinclairs once and for all. The last thing he expects is to find the beguiling Hedley—the younger sister of his former fiancée—standing in his way. With drastic measures called for, he plans to marry her off in order to regain control of the estate. The only trouble is, he can't seem to stop seducing her. Even worse, he can't help falling in love with her.
Rafe has every intention of ridding Greyson Park of the conniving Sinclairs once and for all. The last thing he expects is to find the beguiling Hedley—the younger sister of his former fiancée—standing in his way. With drastic measures called for, he plans to marry her off in order to regain control of the estate. The only trouble is, he can't seem to stop seducing her. Even worse, he can't help falling in love with her.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2015
106 people are currently reading
757 people want to read
About the author
Vivienne Lorret
38 books1,313 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 114 reviews
October 27, 2016
I'm so happy that this was good. I recently met Vivienne and she was just the sweetest lady. So, of course, I wanted her books to be good otherwise I would have felt bad! Now I'm excited to read her other books.
I really enjoyed the characters. I thought Hedley was a strong woman considering everything that she's been through. I was happy she got her HEA. Rafe was an endearing man. He didn't come off too rakish or annoying. And some of the things he said to Hedley at the end?....*swoon* I was hoping that Hedley's sister, Ursa, would meet a bad end but I didn't get what I wanted. Talk about a royal bitch, though!!!!!
I really enjoyed the characters. I thought Hedley was a strong woman considering everything that she's been through. I was happy she got her HEA. Rafe was an endearing man. He didn't come off too rakish or annoying. And some of the things he said to Hedley at the end?....*swoon* I was hoping that Hedley's sister, Ursa, would meet a bad end but I didn't get what I wanted. Talk about a royal bitch, though!!!!!
April 28, 2019
I was so pleasantly surprised by this book! Really enjoyed this story. It is a part of a series but was fine as a stand alone.
It has almost a gothic feel to it, except the heroine is the broken one and considered mad, instead of the hero. She inherited a moldering manor where she is living after escaping her parents house. She went through a traumatizing experience at a young age, then suffered panic attacks and was treated like she was insane. Her family hid her away in the attic and acted like she didn’t exist.
The hero also wants the moldering ruin pile because it was a part of his family’s legacy a century ago, but it was gambled away.
I felt like this story had enough action to propel the story forward but most of it was focused on the relationship and I loved that. The hero Rafe, does fight his love for Hedley, the heroine, because he has bad history with the rest of her family.
You get to spend a lot of time in the hero’s perspective and I loved that as well. I definitely will be searching out more by this author.
It has almost a gothic feel to it, except the heroine is the broken one and considered mad, instead of the hero. She inherited a moldering manor where she is living after escaping her parents house. She went through a traumatizing experience at a young age, then suffered panic attacks and was treated like she was insane. Her family hid her away in the attic and acted like she didn’t exist.
The hero also wants the moldering ruin pile because it was a part of his family’s legacy a century ago, but it was gambled away.
I felt like this story had enough action to propel the story forward but most of it was focused on the relationship and I loved that. The hero Rafe, does fight his love for Hedley, the heroine, because he has bad history with the rest of her family.
You get to spend a lot of time in the hero’s perspective and I loved that as well. I definitely will be searching out more by this author.
May 30, 2015
This is easily the best book I have read from Vivienne Lorret. It’s book two in her Rakes of Fallow Hall series, but it holds up wonderfully as a standalone. It follows the unlikely romance between a man who never wants to marry and the sister of the woman who once left him at the altar.
One of the things I liked best about the story was the unusual set up for the heroine. Hedley may come from a wealthy, high class family of the ton, but she is their dirty little secret. Not even Rafe knew she existed when he courted her sister. They often kept her locked in the attic and completely out of society. She went overlooked and unnoticed, until she finally got the chance to escape when her grandfather left her his crumbling old home.
Despite the fact that she barely knows where her next meal is coming from and that her clothes are worn down to threads, she is the happiest she has been in her life. And when she lays eyes on Rafe, her childhood crush comes rushing back. You see, he may not know her, but she knew him and that makes it all the more complicated when she finds out that he wants the very same home she has inherited.
It could have easily been an adversarial relationship between these two. Perhaps Rafe thought it would be, but as he gets to know Hedley, he becomes quickly aware she is nothing like her family. Her innocence and guilelessness are irresistible, and he is lost to her long before he even knows it.
It’s impossible not to like Hedley. Obviously, she has been through a lot, but she is never maudlin or pitiful about it. I love how determined she is and how she maintains her spirit despite all of her trials. I enjoyed watching her create friendships; and I love how she treasured each kindness without ever being sappy.
Rafe makes for a good hero as well. I liked that even when he saw Hedley as the enemy, he never treated her poorly. I liked how stalwart and decent he was. And seeing him through Hedley’s eyes, he’s mighty sexy too.
I thought the foundation for Hedley’s family’s treatment of her was pretty flimsy, but that was my only complaint about the story. And it didn’t really detract from my enjoyment.
I’m really looking forward to a story featuring Rafe’s friend Montwood. I am intrigued by his dark secrets and wounded past.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by Avon
One of the things I liked best about the story was the unusual set up for the heroine. Hedley may come from a wealthy, high class family of the ton, but she is their dirty little secret. Not even Rafe knew she existed when he courted her sister. They often kept her locked in the attic and completely out of society. She went overlooked and unnoticed, until she finally got the chance to escape when her grandfather left her his crumbling old home.
Despite the fact that she barely knows where her next meal is coming from and that her clothes are worn down to threads, she is the happiest she has been in her life. And when she lays eyes on Rafe, her childhood crush comes rushing back. You see, he may not know her, but she knew him and that makes it all the more complicated when she finds out that he wants the very same home she has inherited.
It could have easily been an adversarial relationship between these two. Perhaps Rafe thought it would be, but as he gets to know Hedley, he becomes quickly aware she is nothing like her family. Her innocence and guilelessness are irresistible, and he is lost to her long before he even knows it.
It’s impossible not to like Hedley. Obviously, she has been through a lot, but she is never maudlin or pitiful about it. I love how determined she is and how she maintains her spirit despite all of her trials. I enjoyed watching her create friendships; and I love how she treasured each kindness without ever being sappy.
Rafe makes for a good hero as well. I liked that even when he saw Hedley as the enemy, he never treated her poorly. I liked how stalwart and decent he was. And seeing him through Hedley’s eyes, he’s mighty sexy too.
I thought the foundation for Hedley’s family’s treatment of her was pretty flimsy, but that was my only complaint about the story. And it didn’t really detract from my enjoyment.
I’m really looking forward to a story featuring Rafe’s friend Montwood. I am intrigued by his dark secrets and wounded past.
Rating: B/B+
*ARC provided by Avon
March 25, 2015
Review copy provided by Edelweiss and Avon.
This is my favorite story from Vivienne Lorret so far (Lord Montwood's story is next and I really like him!)
Hedley Sinclair is finally visible! She has an inheritance from her grandfather, a house that is dilapidated but all hers. So she does everything in her power to make her new house a home. Hidden away by her family for years in an attic, she is used to being invisible and ignored but then she gets noticed by the one man she thought she would never meet again. Rafe Danvers sees Greyson Park as his inheritance and he is working towards making it his own. Yet the news of Hedley's inheritance of the manor house leaves him not only furious but duped again from the Sinclair family. Long ago Rafe was engaged to Hedley's sister but he was left at the alter by her. Since then he has hated all the Sinclair's for their faithlessness. However, Hedley is nothing like her family. Her innocence and naiveté are obvious, as well as the guileless and forthcoming way in which she acts towards him.
I loved, loved, LOVED Hedley. Her character was so amazing and so moving. Her story made my heart ache and all the progress that she made since was very touching. I liked the darker past for the heroine as well as the hero. He had been hurt by the society but she was neglected by her family. I think Hedley's HEA mattered more to me than Rafe. Obviously they both found it together.
I had hoped that Ursa, the bitchy sister, would get her comeuppance but the confrontation with any of the Sinclair family members never happened.
This is my favorite story from Vivienne Lorret so far (Lord Montwood's story is next and I really like him!)
Hedley Sinclair is finally visible! She has an inheritance from her grandfather, a house that is dilapidated but all hers. So she does everything in her power to make her new house a home. Hidden away by her family for years in an attic, she is used to being invisible and ignored but then she gets noticed by the one man she thought she would never meet again. Rafe Danvers sees Greyson Park as his inheritance and he is working towards making it his own. Yet the news of Hedley's inheritance of the manor house leaves him not only furious but duped again from the Sinclair family. Long ago Rafe was engaged to Hedley's sister but he was left at the alter by her. Since then he has hated all the Sinclair's for their faithlessness. However, Hedley is nothing like her family. Her innocence and naiveté are obvious, as well as the guileless and forthcoming way in which she acts towards him.
I loved, loved, LOVED Hedley. Her character was so amazing and so moving. Her story made my heart ache and all the progress that she made since was very touching. I liked the darker past for the heroine as well as the hero. He had been hurt by the society but she was neglected by her family. I think Hedley's HEA mattered more to me than Rafe. Obviously they both found it together.
I had hoped that Ursa, the bitchy sister, would get her comeuppance but the confrontation with any of the Sinclair family members never happened.
November 24, 2025
I stumbled upon this book and I'm so glad I did! What a fantastic story! I really enjoyed the MCs and their romance was sweet.
I'm going to go read the other books ASAP.
2025 - Edit to add safety spoiler:
I'm going to go read the other books ASAP.
2025 - Edit to add safety spoiler:
July 25, 2019
** 3.5 stars **
I've been anticipating The Devilish Mr. Danvers since the moment I finished reading book one in The Rakes of Fallow Hall, The Elusive Lord Everhart. The rakes in question: Everhart, Danvers and Montwood, made a high-stakes wager, the man who remains unmarried after a year will receive £10,000. In the first book, Everhart and Calliope truly fell in love (after years of loving one another from afar), leaving Danvers and Montwood to duke it out for the big prize.
In what is no surprise, given the title, it is now Rafe Danvers's turn. The woman who brings the confirmed bachelor to his knees is Hedley Sinclair, the younger sister of his former fiancé. Okay, so not only do we have that lovely bit of baggage, but it turns out that Hedley was hidden away by her family, and Danvers never even knew she was his fiancé's sister. Why was Hedley her family's big secret? As far as I can tell, it was due to not looking like her mother or sister, being severely traumatized by a horrible accident, as well as her sister's jealousy. Trust me, that whole issue was kind of weird and a bit far-fetched. But what do I know? *shrug*
There's also the issue of Hedley's inheritance if her grandfather's home, Greyson Park. A home Rafe Danvers is desperate to own because his own family's fortune is within. So really, The Devilish Mr. Danvers has quite the plot, and though I sometimes found Hedley's backstory and subsequent recovery to be a little much, as well as her freaking crazy family, it was a very fun and engaging story. And I did adore both Hedley and Rafe.
I loved that Calliope and Gabriel had so much page time. If possible, I think I adore Calliope even more now, and I loved seeing the two as happy newlyweds. Another interesting bit was Lucan Montwood! He is very elusive and it seems he has a huge secret he's hiding from even his housemates and best friends. Needless to say, I'm now anxiously awaiting his book, The Maddening Lord Montwood.
The Rakes of Fallow Hall is such a fun, engaging series. I've read each installment in a matter of hours, and was left with a happy smile on my face.
I've been anticipating The Devilish Mr. Danvers since the moment I finished reading book one in The Rakes of Fallow Hall, The Elusive Lord Everhart. The rakes in question: Everhart, Danvers and Montwood, made a high-stakes wager, the man who remains unmarried after a year will receive £10,000. In the first book, Everhart and Calliope truly fell in love (after years of loving one another from afar), leaving Danvers and Montwood to duke it out for the big prize.
In what is no surprise, given the title, it is now Rafe Danvers's turn. The woman who brings the confirmed bachelor to his knees is Hedley Sinclair, the younger sister of his former fiancé. Okay, so not only do we have that lovely bit of baggage, but it turns out that Hedley was hidden away by her family, and Danvers never even knew she was his fiancé's sister. Why was Hedley her family's big secret? As far as I can tell, it was due to not looking like her mother or sister, being severely traumatized by a horrible accident, as well as her sister's jealousy. Trust me, that whole issue was kind of weird and a bit far-fetched. But what do I know? *shrug*
There's also the issue of Hedley's inheritance if her grandfather's home, Greyson Park. A home Rafe Danvers is desperate to own because his own family's fortune is within. So really, The Devilish Mr. Danvers has quite the plot, and though I sometimes found Hedley's backstory and subsequent recovery to be a little much, as well as her freaking crazy family, it was a very fun and engaging story. And I did adore both Hedley and Rafe.
I loved that Calliope and Gabriel had so much page time. If possible, I think I adore Calliope even more now, and I loved seeing the two as happy newlyweds. Another interesting bit was Lucan Montwood! He is very elusive and it seems he has a huge secret he's hiding from even his housemates and best friends. Needless to say, I'm now anxiously awaiting his book, The Maddening Lord Montwood.
The Rakes of Fallow Hall is such a fun, engaging series. I've read each installment in a matter of hours, and was left with a happy smile on my face.
February 4, 2017
Plutôt 3,75/5
Classique mais assez efficace.
J'aurai aimé que l'auteur s’intéresse encore plus à l'inadaptabilité de l'héroïne aux conventions sociales, c'était marrant à lire.
Par contre, le héros m'a énervé à l'appeler sans cesse "douce enfant", c'est bon, elle n'a pas 14 ans non plus (23 ans !) !
Classique mais assez efficace.
J'aurai aimé que l'auteur s’intéresse encore plus à l'inadaptabilité de l'héroïne aux conventions sociales, c'était marrant à lire.
Par contre, le héros m'a énervé à l'appeler sans cesse "douce enfant", c'est bon, elle n'a pas 14 ans non plus (23 ans !) !
October 18, 2017
Huhuuueee anjrit nangis mulu baca novel ini. Heroine yg kuat walau udah menderita & dikucilkan, dan yaaa... hero yg awalnya punya niat bajingan tapi sayang.. Aaaak~~ Cuma ya akhirnya rada nanggung sih. Pengen kakaknya kenapa gituu yang menderita-menderita sikit lah. Wkwkwkwkk~~ Semoga bisa nulis reviewnya deh di blog.
December 16, 2018
Sebenarnya ini agak mirip Cinderella retelling.
Hedley Sinclair ini saudari dari Ursa Sinclair yg cantik dan tamak serta jahat. Hedley ini ditaruh di loteng semasa hidupnya. Dia mewarisi Greyson Park yg bobrok dan nyaris hancur tapi anehnya diperebutkan banyak pihak, kakaknya dan si tampan Rafe Danvers.
Rafe menginginkan Greyson Park krn konon ada harta karun disana. Jadi saat bertemu dgn Hedley, Rafe skeptis dgn gadis lugu ini. Rafe malah bertaruh dgn Montwood, teman karibnya, utk merayu dan menikahi gadis ini. Tetapi setelah Montwood menjalankan rencana taruhan tsb, alih-alih Rafe malah tidak suka. Rafe tidak menyangka dia akan jatuh cinta pada gadis ini.
Ini pertama kali saya membaca karya author. Kesimpulan saya, not too good but not too bad. Plot cerita sebenarnya menarik tetapi cenderung bertele-tele di awal cerita dan saya merasa semuanya ditumpahkan di akhir cerita.
Karakter H/H juga gak ada yg istimewa menurut saya, standar HR saja.
Hedley Sinclair ini saudari dari Ursa Sinclair yg cantik dan tamak serta jahat. Hedley ini ditaruh di loteng semasa hidupnya. Dia mewarisi Greyson Park yg bobrok dan nyaris hancur tapi anehnya diperebutkan banyak pihak, kakaknya dan si tampan Rafe Danvers.
Rafe menginginkan Greyson Park krn konon ada harta karun disana. Jadi saat bertemu dgn Hedley, Rafe skeptis dgn gadis lugu ini. Rafe malah bertaruh dgn Montwood, teman karibnya, utk merayu dan menikahi gadis ini. Tetapi setelah Montwood menjalankan rencana taruhan tsb, alih-alih Rafe malah tidak suka. Rafe tidak menyangka dia akan jatuh cinta pada gadis ini.
Ini pertama kali saya membaca karya author. Kesimpulan saya, not too good but not too bad. Plot cerita sebenarnya menarik tetapi cenderung bertele-tele di awal cerita dan saya merasa semuanya ditumpahkan di akhir cerita.
Karakter H/H juga gak ada yg istimewa menurut saya, standar HR saja.
March 17, 2024
It was a good one but the ending felt rushed.
August 4, 2015
original post: http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspo...
I’ve never read Vivenne Lorret before so “The Devilish Mr. Danvers” was my first book by her. Although it’s the second book in the (The Rakes of Fallow Hall #2) series I did not feel like I missed out by not having read “The Elusive Lord Everhart (The Rakes of Fallow Hall, #1).
The heroine of this book is Hedley Sinclair. I liked her but didn’t feel a huge connection with her. Hedley is all alone at Greyson Park. She couldn’t be happier. After having spent a large amount of time locked away in the attic she has inherited Greyson Park. Greyson Park is everything Hedley ever wanted and dreamed of, it’s a symbol of her independence. Greyson Park is also falling apart. It’ been badly neglected and Hedley really doesn’t have any means to fix it or to provide any comfort for herself. It’s also the home that Rafe Denvers has his sights on.
Rafe Denvers was engaged to Hedley’s sister and had Greyson Park added to her dowry because there is a treasure hidden in the attic that holds great value to his family. Hedley’s sister ends up breaking off their engagement when his family’s name is tarnished and Rafe hates the Sinclair’s since that moment. When he sees Hedley at Greyson Park he does not remember her because she was still very young.
Hedley didn’t have too many wonderful memories of her childhood but she remembered Rafe as one of the few people who actually saw her and paid attention to her. They quickly become enemies when they both realize that they want to lay claim to the same home.
I enjoyed this story and the characters. I liked the tension between Hedley and Rafe and also the way they tried to best each other but ultimately became friends. I was happy to see Hedley claim her destiny despite so many different odds that were constantly against her, not the least of which were her sister and mother. Even though I did not love this story I did enjoy the hero and the heroine and the mystery surrounding the treasure. Also, I didn’t find too many “devilish” characteristics in Rafe. He did seem a little jaded by his family’s fall from grace and his broken engagement but he was really a sweet guy. I really liked how he was always looking out for Hedley even when they were on opposite sides. I also plan to read the previous book in the series “The Elusive Lord Everhart” and the next one “The Maddening Lord Montwood.
I’ve never read Vivenne Lorret before so “The Devilish Mr. Danvers” was my first book by her. Although it’s the second book in the (The Rakes of Fallow Hall #2) series I did not feel like I missed out by not having read “The Elusive Lord Everhart (The Rakes of Fallow Hall, #1).
The heroine of this book is Hedley Sinclair. I liked her but didn’t feel a huge connection with her. Hedley is all alone at Greyson Park. She couldn’t be happier. After having spent a large amount of time locked away in the attic she has inherited Greyson Park. Greyson Park is everything Hedley ever wanted and dreamed of, it’s a symbol of her independence. Greyson Park is also falling apart. It’ been badly neglected and Hedley really doesn’t have any means to fix it or to provide any comfort for herself. It’s also the home that Rafe Denvers has his sights on.
Rafe Denvers was engaged to Hedley’s sister and had Greyson Park added to her dowry because there is a treasure hidden in the attic that holds great value to his family. Hedley’s sister ends up breaking off their engagement when his family’s name is tarnished and Rafe hates the Sinclair’s since that moment. When he sees Hedley at Greyson Park he does not remember her because she was still very young.
Hedley didn’t have too many wonderful memories of her childhood but she remembered Rafe as one of the few people who actually saw her and paid attention to her. They quickly become enemies when they both realize that they want to lay claim to the same home.
I enjoyed this story and the characters. I liked the tension between Hedley and Rafe and also the way they tried to best each other but ultimately became friends. I was happy to see Hedley claim her destiny despite so many different odds that were constantly against her, not the least of which were her sister and mother. Even though I did not love this story I did enjoy the hero and the heroine and the mystery surrounding the treasure. Also, I didn’t find too many “devilish” characteristics in Rafe. He did seem a little jaded by his family’s fall from grace and his broken engagement but he was really a sweet guy. I really liked how he was always looking out for Hedley even when they were on opposite sides. I also plan to read the previous book in the series “The Elusive Lord Everhart” and the next one “The Maddening Lord Montwood.
July 6, 2025
Few people knows that the Sinclair have a second daughter. When she was younger, a terrible accident left her with emotional scars and her family forced her to hide in the attic. But Hedley Sinclair doesn't want to be invisible anymore. And Greyson Park, the property that everyone was surprised she inherited from her grandfather might be the answer to her prayers. It might not be a beauty and the house might be a bit decrepit, but Hedley doesn't care because it's hers. She doesn't care either that it doesn't come with allowance nor servants. But before she can get her first taste of contented life, the young lady must deal with two problems. One of them is Rafe Danvers, the man who would be married to her sister if she hadn't left him at the altar a few years back.
The first time he saw her, years ago, Rafe thought of a wood sprite. But he never really saw her again after that. He have his own reason to want Greyson Park but despise dealing with yet an other Sinclair. She doesn't appear as conniving as her sister but can Rafe trust his heart again? And what about the bet he made with his fellows at Fallow Hall to not marry? One of them already lost so the win seem nearer now. Rafe has an idea that could get him the win and the house. But what if doing it would make him lose even more ?
By now it's no surprise I'm a big fan of this author. We met Rafe Danvers before, in the previous book and even when his sister had her HEA in an other series. But when I discovered how sweet and honest he was and saw his protective side, I felt in love with Rafe. Hedley was a charming and touching woman too. She have much to learn since she never learned society's conventions and while she was not bold nor fearless, she had a curiosity and seeing her gaining confidence by herself and with the help of the hero was beautiful to witness. Last but not least, I absolutely adore Boris, the dog with many names who play matchmaker in the series. It was so cute how he simply decided to stay for a week at Greyson Park with Hedley.
Don't know if it was the intention, but this story had a sort of Cinderella feel.
The first time he saw her, years ago, Rafe thought of a wood sprite. But he never really saw her again after that. He have his own reason to want Greyson Park but despise dealing with yet an other Sinclair. She doesn't appear as conniving as her sister but can Rafe trust his heart again? And what about the bet he made with his fellows at Fallow Hall to not marry? One of them already lost so the win seem nearer now. Rafe has an idea that could get him the win and the house. But what if doing it would make him lose even more ?
By now it's no surprise I'm a big fan of this author. We met Rafe Danvers before, in the previous book and even when his sister had her HEA in an other series. But when I discovered how sweet and honest he was and saw his protective side, I felt in love with Rafe. Hedley was a charming and touching woman too. She have much to learn since she never learned society's conventions and while she was not bold nor fearless, she had a curiosity and seeing her gaining confidence by herself and with the help of the hero was beautiful to witness. Last but not least, I absolutely adore Boris, the dog with many names who play matchmaker in the series. It was so cute how he simply decided to stay for a week at Greyson Park with Hedley.
Don't know if it was the intention, but this story had a sort of Cinderella feel.
January 21, 2016
Hedley and Rafe. I really liked this book even if the motivations were a bit convoluted. Rafe used to be betrothed to Hedley's sister years ago, until she threw him over for a more promising target. Hedley Sinclaire knew of him and had a crush on him from afar, but he didn't know of her. Nobody did. The Sinclair family secret, she was kept locked in the attic a lot of the time. Now she has finally gotten away from her evil mother and sister through an inheritance of an old run down estate that came from her grandfather. Her family doesn't care. They are happy to be rid of her but they refuse to give her any money or help. So here she is with barely enough to live on and a huge ramshackle mansion with holes in the roof. Then who should her neighbour be, but Rafe. He lives nearby on purpose, because the estate used to be in his family and it is rumoured to have treasure. He is pretty pissed to find out the house he thought belonged to him is still in the hands of a 'hated Sinclaire'. He is even more pissed when Hedley's sister shows up to force her way in and search for the treasure herself. Don't worry about OW drama though except that she is a very dislikable person. In fact I found it pretty hard to believe Rafe could have ever been enamoured with her. Anyways, so there's Hedley between a rock and a hard place and nobody to help her. It's a fun read, and a slow build romance. An instant attraction, but Rafe is pretty hard headed. The side characters were interesting and the ending was sweet. oh, yeah, and to make it more complex, Rafe and his three friends have a wager that whoever remains unmarried at the end of the year wins the bet.
February 14, 2017
I really really wanted the sister to be punched in the face.
Enjoyable story, quick read.
I am half in love with the hero. Heroine is awesome. I love the red shoes.
What a great story.
Enjoyable story, quick read.
I am half in love with the hero. Heroine is awesome. I love the red shoes.
What a great story.
September 7, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
Hedley was truly quirky and sweet, and her lack of proper education made her bold and forward, really progressing the story along. She knew her mind and learned to not be afraid to stand up for what she wanted. I loved her connection with Montwood and now can't wait to read his book
Rafe was a good character too, and the wager and his dislike for Hedley's family made for logical reasons why he didn't/shouldn't like her. Yet he was smart about his feelings and didn't overly try to push them away.
I only wish we'd known how much time is in between books, though I don't think it's much based on Calliope not showing at all.
Hedley was truly quirky and sweet, and her lack of proper education made her bold and forward, really progressing the story along. She knew her mind and learned to not be afraid to stand up for what she wanted. I loved her connection with Montwood and now can't wait to read his book
Rafe was a good character too, and the wager and his dislike for Hedley's family made for logical reasons why he didn't/shouldn't like her. Yet he was smart about his feelings and didn't overly try to push them away.
I only wish we'd known how much time is in between books, though I don't think it's much based on Calliope not showing at all.
April 14, 2015
This book was outstanding! I enjoyed every minute of it! Hedley, our heroine, is finally living life on her terms, even if they are a bit desperate! I loved watching her transformation from timid, scared girl to a strong woman. And I adored Rafe! Despite being a Rake, he's truly a good person that wants to restore his family's honor. He struggles with this as to do so, will greatly affect Hedley and, of course, being our Hero, he fights his feelings for Hedley tooth and nail! I always love when the Hero tries to deny love! As their relationship grew, I smiled and cheered. Of course, it wouldn't be a romance without some drama - so there's a villain and what a mean one she is. Hedley's new found friends, especially Boris!, were wonderful and such a joy for her. All along, I felt I was in the story - between the descriptions of the houses to animals and especially the characters feelings, Ms. Lorret did a wonderful job with it all. The plot to this one was a bit different than others I have read and it was just as enjoyable. Ms. Lorret is an author I will gladly pick up to read again and again! (received copy for honest review)
August 8, 2016
This is the second book in the Rakes of Fallow Hall series and I loved it! In contrast to the first book, I found this story much more interesting and entertaining.
From the start I liked these rakes who've thought to make a wager giving the last man standing unmarried a huge amount of money. In order to be the winner, they all are working against each other, trying to set up the other ones with a parson's trap.
It's now between Danvers and Montwood and may the best man win ... or loose!
In the first book, Everhart and Calliope had a lot of baggage to get over in order to have their happily ever after, and now Hedley and Rafe have even more of their own. You see, Hedley is the sister of Rafe's ex-fiancé. What can go wrong, right? Well, a lot, and it does.
After this story, I have high expectations for the third story and Lucan's story, which looks like it will have some mystery element to it.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
From the start I liked these rakes who've thought to make a wager giving the last man standing unmarried a huge amount of money. In order to be the winner, they all are working against each other, trying to set up the other ones with a parson's trap.
It's now between Danvers and Montwood and may the best man win ... or loose!
In the first book, Everhart and Calliope had a lot of baggage to get over in order to have their happily ever after, and now Hedley and Rafe have even more of their own. You see, Hedley is the sister of Rafe's ex-fiancé. What can go wrong, right? Well, a lot, and it does.
After this story, I have high expectations for the third story and Lucan's story, which looks like it will have some mystery element to it.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
July 21, 2015
Loved It!
The Devilish Mr. Danvers is the second book in The Rakes of Fallow Hall series. This is another amazing story by Vivienne Lorret.
Hedley Sinclair is an innocence, sweet heroine who has been ignored and mistreated by her mean sister and mother. Now she's inherited the crumbling Greyson Park from her grandfather and she wants to make a future for herself, if only the handsome Rogue, Rafe Danvers, let her.
Rafe has been jilted at the altar by Hedley's sister 6 years ago and he hates Sinclair family. Now he is close to get back the Greyson park, the estate that belonged to his family long time ago, he realized that Hedley's mother has lied to him and the house belonged to Hedley.
This a wonderful story with adorable heroin and charming hero that I couldn't put it down.I had hoped that something bad would happen to Ursa, the evil sister, but....
Thank you Vivienne Lorret
The Devilish Mr. Danvers is the second book in The Rakes of Fallow Hall series. This is another amazing story by Vivienne Lorret.
Hedley Sinclair is an innocence, sweet heroine who has been ignored and mistreated by her mean sister and mother. Now she's inherited the crumbling Greyson Park from her grandfather and she wants to make a future for herself, if only the handsome Rogue, Rafe Danvers, let her.
Rafe has been jilted at the altar by Hedley's sister 6 years ago and he hates Sinclair family. Now he is close to get back the Greyson park, the estate that belonged to his family long time ago, he realized that Hedley's mother has lied to him and the house belonged to Hedley.
This a wonderful story with adorable heroin and charming hero that I couldn't put it down.I had hoped that something bad would happen to Ursa, the evil sister, but....
Thank you Vivienne Lorret
November 14, 2016
L'intégralité de ma chronique ici: http://lune-et-plume.fr/la-rose-de-gr...
Au mois de septembre, la découverte de Vivienne Lorret avait été une belle surprise avec A vous pour toujours premier tome de sa série Les gentlemen de Fallow Hall. La rose de Greyson Park, second tome de la série qui vient d’être publié en France, confirme cette belle surprise. Je l’ai trouvé meilleur que le premier dans un style tout à fait différent. L’auteure a complètement réussi à se renouveler pour nous offrir une romance historique totalement différente de la première mais avec la même ambiance agréable. [...]
Au mois de septembre, la découverte de Vivienne Lorret avait été une belle surprise avec A vous pour toujours premier tome de sa série Les gentlemen de Fallow Hall. La rose de Greyson Park, second tome de la série qui vient d’être publié en France, confirme cette belle surprise. Je l’ai trouvé meilleur que le premier dans un style tout à fait différent. L’auteure a complètement réussi à se renouveler pour nous offrir une romance historique totalement différente de la première mais avec la même ambiance agréable. [...]
May 22, 2019
Story-wise, I think this proved my favorite of the series, but certain aspects hold up less well, the more distance I have. On the one hand, this story gave both characters very strong reasons to resist each other -- yielding a nice sense of tension. But on the other hand, Hedley has gone through SO much that at times her overall health challenged my plausibility (wouldn't she show some signs of malnourishment? When did she cook? And then there's her crazy upbringing and apparently non-existent education ...)
It's a credit to Lorret's writing that her characters so strongly engaged my plausibility, but part of me wishes a character with this kind of backstory had more room and space for the complex development that would do justice to such a difficult upbringing. Though never reality, of course, I'd like to think the romance genre capable of handling a bit more brokenness -- especially the long-term effects of emotional abuse such as Hedley is given. Drawing out more of the struggle to believe oneself could be loveable -- and not just visible or desirable -- could have taken this book to a whole different level (though maybe not the type Avon traffics in).
It's a credit to Lorret's writing that her characters so strongly engaged my plausibility, but part of me wishes a character with this kind of backstory had more room and space for the complex development that would do justice to such a difficult upbringing. Though never reality, of course, I'd like to think the romance genre capable of handling a bit more brokenness -- especially the long-term effects of emotional abuse such as Hedley is given. Drawing out more of the struggle to believe oneself could be loveable -- and not just visible or desirable -- could have taken this book to a whole different level (though maybe not the type Avon traffics in).
December 27, 2021
Diksi dan narasi kurang nyaman untuk dibaca. Tapi sebagian besar maksud yang mau disampaikan masih bisa dipahami.
Mulanya saya suka dengan konflik dan drama yang dipaparkan. Menurut saya lebih menarik daripada buku pertama. Saya suka cerita masa lalu Hedley yang menyedihkan, trauma-traumanya, dan perilaku keluarga padanya. Meski menurut saya alasan keluarga Hedley mengucilkannya kurang beralasan kuat. Interaksi Hedley dengan Rafe pun cukup manis. Saya benar-benar punya ekspektasi tinggi pada cerita ini.
Namun di penghujung cerita, ada sebuah episode yang tidak jelas/kurang tahu tempat (episode yang mengarah ke perusakan Greyson Park). Dan mulai dari sana cerita jadi merosot tajam. Konklusi cerita kurang memuaskan, juga kakak dan ibu Hedley kurang mendapat ganjaran pantas. Well, at least Hedley found a new family... I guess.
Mulanya saya suka dengan konflik dan drama yang dipaparkan. Menurut saya lebih menarik daripada buku pertama. Saya suka cerita masa lalu Hedley yang menyedihkan, trauma-traumanya, dan perilaku keluarga padanya. Meski menurut saya alasan keluarga Hedley mengucilkannya kurang beralasan kuat. Interaksi Hedley dengan Rafe pun cukup manis. Saya benar-benar punya ekspektasi tinggi pada cerita ini.
Namun di penghujung cerita, ada sebuah episode yang tidak jelas/kurang tahu tempat (episode yang mengarah ke perusakan Greyson Park). Dan mulai dari sana cerita jadi merosot tajam. Konklusi cerita kurang memuaskan, juga kakak dan ibu Hedley kurang mendapat ganjaran pantas. Well, at least Hedley found a new family... I guess.
July 3, 2017
Not Every Relative Deserves to be Trusted!
Hadley Sinclair had been locked in the attic all her life. Now thanks to her grandfather, she inherited a house of her very own. No locked donors 5 and she'd never enter the attic. Discovering her neighbor's identity was the first disappointment, but not the worst. That came later. Neighbor Race Danvers claims the house is his! He claims her mother sold it t
him and he wands her out now. The fight is on! Her sister comes back to town to check out this house. Ursa says it's hers, but she and her new hubby aren't as nice about it as Mr
Danvers is. SYou'll have to read this book to learn all the inside scoop and who gets to keep the house.
These characters are fully fleshed
Hadley Sinclair had been locked in the attic all her life. Now thanks to her grandfather, she inherited a house of her very own. No locked donors 5 and she'd never enter the attic. Discovering her neighbor's identity was the first disappointment, but not the worst. That came later. Neighbor Race Danvers claims the house is his! He claims her mother sold it t
him and he wands her out now. The fight is on! Her sister comes back to town to check out this house. Ursa says it's hers, but she and her new hubby aren't as nice about it as Mr
Danvers is. SYou'll have to read this book to learn all the inside scoop and who gets to keep the house.
These characters are fully fleshed
October 27, 2021
Hedley was locked in the attic by her family after experience trauma relating to a terrible carriage accident, under the excuse of "madness". Lots of "Cinderella" tones in this one.
Again, generally likable and enjoyable, but a bit of ableism here
Also as with the prior book
Again, generally likable and enjoyable, but a bit of ableism here
Also as with the prior book
February 18, 2023
I quite liked this, Hedley is a wonderful heroine, and right up my alley trope-wise. Overall a solid read, except While I liked that Hedley was fragile in some ways, but not a doormat, I would have thought she’d be a little more unsure of herself, and need some reassurance from Rafe, who basically provides none. Great setup, but just an ok resolution, for my taste anyways. (3.5 stars)
January 22, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. Hedley was a sweet heroine, who was treated very poorly by her family. It was interesting reading about a heroine who was unsure of social etiquette and society rules. Rafe was also wonderful as well. My major complaint was about Hedley's awful sister, Ursa, and Ursa's husband. It was a major let down that after everything they did, they just sailed away back to America without any retribution or comeuppance. I would have liked for them to have had to pay Hedley back for all the damage to her house at the very least. Plus, it would have been nice to have read about Rafe's reaction to Hedley's news at the end of the story. Otherwise, it was a good read. I look forward to reading Montwood's story.
October 29, 2017
Buku ke-150. Yay!!
I've completed the challenge.
Hedley akhirnya bisa mendapatkan rumahnya sendiri, Greyson Park, sebagai warisan dari kakeknya. Hanya saja bukan cuma Hedley yang menginginkan rumah itu. Mantan tunangan kakaknya, Rafe Danvers juga menginginkan rumah itu.
Hedley dengan masa lalunya yang sangat buruk.menyisakan banyak trauma pada dirinya. Begitu mendengar kakaknya ingin mencari harta karun di rumah itu, mau tak mau Hedley meminta bantuan pada satu-satunya orang yang dia percaya ingin melindungi Greyson Park.
Kedekatan mereka membuahkan hasil. Seru juga membaca cemburunya Rafe. Tapi yang paling menarik.adalah bagaimana Hedley mengatasi ketakutannya di masa lalu.
I've completed the challenge.
Hedley akhirnya bisa mendapatkan rumahnya sendiri, Greyson Park, sebagai warisan dari kakeknya. Hanya saja bukan cuma Hedley yang menginginkan rumah itu. Mantan tunangan kakaknya, Rafe Danvers juga menginginkan rumah itu.
Hedley dengan masa lalunya yang sangat buruk.menyisakan banyak trauma pada dirinya. Begitu mendengar kakaknya ingin mencari harta karun di rumah itu, mau tak mau Hedley meminta bantuan pada satu-satunya orang yang dia percaya ingin melindungi Greyson Park.
Kedekatan mereka membuahkan hasil. Seru juga membaca cemburunya Rafe. Tapi yang paling menarik.adalah bagaimana Hedley mengatasi ketakutannya di masa lalu.
March 18, 2022
4-4.5 stars
I liked this a lot more than the previous book in the series. The emotional connection between the MCs felt more real, Hedley was incredibly sympathetic and had more personality than Calliope, and the plot was more than just waiting around for more romantic interactions (which I felt for the first book). I can’t state enough how much I loved Hedley’s strength, tenacity, and complete openness and lack of guile. Watching her overcome her fear was so satisfying (and Danvers protectiveness while she did was also satisfying). And I have to admit, I loved the jealousy aspects, too.
I’m excited for Montwood’s book, which I assume is next. He was very sweet and mysterious in this one.
I liked this a lot more than the previous book in the series. The emotional connection between the MCs felt more real, Hedley was incredibly sympathetic and had more personality than Calliope, and the plot was more than just waiting around for more romantic interactions (which I felt for the first book). I can’t state enough how much I loved Hedley’s strength, tenacity, and complete openness and lack of guile. Watching her overcome her fear was so satisfying (and Danvers protectiveness while she did was also satisfying). And I have to admit, I loved the jealousy aspects, too.
I’m excited for Montwood’s book, which I assume is next. He was very sweet and mysterious in this one.
April 10, 2024
notes to self -
2.5 stars
hedley and rafe
troubled home life for FMC - abused, PTSD from childhood accident - MMC helps
commoner MMC but sorta rich
HEA - FMC suspects she's pregnant in the epilogue
recurring character from this and other series but not too much that it's annoying.
FMC's evil sister needs to die yesterday
their love story wasn't convincing, kinda insta love on FMC's side and i couldn't really tell *why* they loved each other.
safety - virgin FMC, MMC's past not clear but definitely not a virgin, had mistresses and ONS in the past. mild jealousy for FMC whereas MMC punched his friend due to jealousy lol.
2.5 stars
hedley and rafe
troubled home life for FMC - abused, PTSD from childhood accident - MMC helps
commoner MMC but sorta rich
HEA - FMC suspects she's pregnant in the epilogue
recurring character from this and other series but not too much that it's annoying.
FMC's evil sister needs to die yesterday
their love story wasn't convincing, kinda insta love on FMC's side and i couldn't really tell *why* they loved each other.
safety - virgin FMC, MMC's past not clear but definitely not a virgin, had mistresses and ONS in the past. mild jealousy for FMC whereas MMC punched his friend due to jealousy lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 8, 2019This is the second book in this series, which is so much fun!! Danvers finds himself entranced with Hedley, who inherited the home that used to be in his family. He has vowed to get it back by winning the wager between the 3 men renting Fallow Hall but finds himself falling in love with Hedley., even though she is falling in love with him. She also happens to be the younger sister of the woman who jilted Danvers at the altar, and a member of the family he hates. since she was hidden from the world for years, no one knew she even existed. It is great fun.
August 2, 2025
I'm not entirely sure how Hedley got herself to Greyson Park given her crippling anxiety about carriages. I think the author snuck that in before getting to the anxiety and hoped we wouldn't notice because there was really no other way to set up the scenario. Outside of that, this was a really enjoyable read. While the "falling for her while trying to set her up with someone else" trope isn't exactly original, it's one of my favourites when done well.
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