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Lords of Essex #1
My Rogue, My Ruin: Lords of Essex, Book 1
The cold and aloof marquess of Hawksfield is the worst peer in London. He has no friends, no fortune, and no time for fools. The dissolute ways of the ton disgust him. But when Archer assumes the identity of the mysterious and devilish Masked Marauder, he is free to do as he pleases.
Sheltered heiress Lady Briannon Findlay is a wallflower and prefers it that way. Until she meets the nefarious Masked Marauder, a gentleman thief waylaying carriages from London to Essex, who awakens sensual impulses she never knew she had. Provocative and darkly attractive, his artful seduction leaves her wanting more.
When Brynn discovers that Archer and the Masked Marauder are one and the same, trust and attraction collide. But after a murder is committed by an imposter marauder, they must risk everything to find the real killer...including their love.
Contains mature themes.
Sheltered heiress Lady Briannon Findlay is a wallflower and prefers it that way. Until she meets the nefarious Masked Marauder, a gentleman thief waylaying carriages from London to Essex, who awakens sensual impulses she never knew she had. Provocative and darkly attractive, his artful seduction leaves her wanting more.
When Brynn discovers that Archer and the Masked Marauder are one and the same, trust and attraction collide. But after a murder is committed by an imposter marauder, they must risk everything to find the real killer...including their love.
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
First published November 21, 2016
204 people are currently reading
870 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Howard
46 books3,268 followersAMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, most notably of The Beast of Beswick, “a smart, sexy, deliciously feminist romance,” and one of O-The Oprah Magazine’s Top 24 Best Historicals to Read. She is the co-author of the #1 bestsellers in regency romance and Scottish historical romance, My Rogue, My Ruin and What A Scot Wants, and has also penned several young adult novels, critically acclaimed by Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, VOYA, School Library Journal, and Booklist, including Waterfell, The Almost Girl, and Alpha Goddess, a Kid’s INDIE NEXT selection. Of Indo-Caribbean descent, she has written articles on multicultural fiction for The Portland Book Review and Ravishly magazine. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and three children. Visit her at amaliehoward.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
October 21, 2025
Português
Livro com um enredo envolvente que combina romance e mistério numa narrativa ágil. Depois de um encontro inesperado, as vidas dos dois protagonistas entrelaçam-se; a relação amorosa cresce em paralelo a segredos que vão sendo desvelados aos poucos. Peripécias emocionantes mantêm o ritmo, alternando momentos íntimos com reviravoltas que aumentam a tensão até um desfecho que achei bastante satisfatório para as personagens.
English
A novel with a gripping plot that blends romance and mystery in a brisk narrative. After an unexpected encounter, the lives of the two protagonists become intertwined; their romantic relationship grows alongside secrets that are gradually revealed. Exciting escapades keep the pace taut, alternating intimate moments with twists that increase the tension until a conclusion I found quite satisfying for the characters.
Livro com um enredo envolvente que combina romance e mistério numa narrativa ágil. Depois de um encontro inesperado, as vidas dos dois protagonistas entrelaçam-se; a relação amorosa cresce em paralelo a segredos que vão sendo desvelados aos poucos. Peripécias emocionantes mantêm o ritmo, alternando momentos íntimos com reviravoltas que aumentam a tensão até um desfecho que achei bastante satisfatório para as personagens.
English
A novel with a gripping plot that blends romance and mystery in a brisk narrative. After an unexpected encounter, the lives of the two protagonists become intertwined; their romantic relationship grows alongside secrets that are gradually revealed. Exciting escapades keep the pace taut, alternating intimate moments with twists that increase the tension until a conclusion I found quite satisfying for the characters.
June 6, 2017
I think this book demonstrates clearly that any good writer can produce a romantic fiction novel. The genre has many easily reproducible factors including of course the seemingly arrogant (but secretly charming) alpha male and the stunningly beautiful (yet amazingly short of admirers) female. However it takes more than being a good writer to make the novel shine.
This one does not shine. Nevertheless it is an entertaining book with a reasonable story, a mystery and of course a convoluted love affair. There is probably a tad more sex than is usual but that is a good or bad thing depending on the tastes of the reader.
Sadly I never 'felt' the romance. I did not develop an attachment to any of the characters and was not at any time worried for them. Characters also appeared to change at random none more markedly than the murderer. I realise that it was fun for the totally unexpected to occur but really? Do NOT read this spoiler if you have not read the book yet!
Anyway if you like your Historical Romance with sex scenes you will probably like this. It is a very readable book but to me just lacking a certain something. I did not have to reach for the tissues once.
This one does not shine. Nevertheless it is an entertaining book with a reasonable story, a mystery and of course a convoluted love affair. There is probably a tad more sex than is usual but that is a good or bad thing depending on the tastes of the reader.
Sadly I never 'felt' the romance. I did not develop an attachment to any of the characters and was not at any time worried for them. Characters also appeared to change at random none more markedly than the murderer. I realise that it was fun for the totally unexpected to occur but really? Do NOT read this spoiler if you have not read the book yet!
Anyway if you like your Historical Romance with sex scenes you will probably like this. It is a very readable book but to me just lacking a certain something. I did not have to reach for the tissues once.
November 18, 2016
2.5 stars.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
My Rogue, My Ruin by Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan
Book One of the Lords of Essex series
Publisher: Entangled Select
Publication Date: November 21, 2016
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
The Marquess of Hawksfield’s lineage is impeccable and his title coveted, but Archer Croft is as far from his indulgent peers as he can get. His loathing for the beau monde has driven him to don a secret identity and risk everything in order to steal their riches and distribute them to the less fortunate.
Lady Briannon Findlay embraces her encounter with the Masked Marauder, a gentleman thief waylaying carriages from London to Essex. The marauder has stirred Brynn’s craving for adventure, and she discovers an attraction deeper than the charming thief’s mask.
Brynn is a revelation, matching Archer in intelligence, wit, and passion. Stubborn and sensuous in equal measure, she astonishes him at every turn, but when someone sinister impersonates Archer’s secret personality, and a murder is committed, Archer begins to think he doesn’t stand a fighting chance without her.
What I Liked:
An okay first attempt at historical romance, but not great and definitely not a new favorite. This book came highly recommended to me, and I was looking forward to reading it. I think I had more issues with this book than things that I liked, but I am still giving this book a somewhat favorable rating. I know these two authors are experienced Young Adult writers, so I expect them to grow in their historical romance writing.
Archer, the Marquess of Hawksfield, is a lord by day, and Robin Hood by night. He's not actually Robin Hood, but he has been masquerading as a charming bandit, robbing rich lords and ladies and giving the money from the jewels to orphanages and homeless people. One night, Lady Briannon and her family are robbed by the Masked Marauder, and everything changes. She has an attraction for this charming bandit, but she also finds herself drawn to the surly and cold Lord Archer. She'll soon discover that they are one and the same. But when an impostor is masquerading as the Masked Marauder, and disaster strikes in Archer's family, Archer and Briannon will have to make choices that they may not want to face.
Briannon - Brynn - is a feisty and independent unmarried lady, paraded around in balls and social events by her parents (namely, her mother), who want her to get married. Except she wants to marry for love, and not for title or arrangement. One thing is for certain - she really does not want to marry the cold and handsome Lord Archer, whom she's known since they were younger.
Archer seems cold and distant, but he is brimming with selflessness and a passion for helping the less fortunate. He is the heir to a dukedom in dire straits, so donning the Robin-Hood-esque disguise is how he helps the poor. Archer is noble and honorable, extremely polite and perfectly groomed. He's also wickedly charming and considerate, but few know this side of him. Most think that he is a cold and mysterious man. But he's the heir to a dukedom, so most people don't care about his antisocial behavior.
I do like hate-to-love romances, and the romance in this book was just about that. Granted, I thought a lot of Briannon's hostility towards Archer was unwarranted and uncalled for, but the general dynamic between the two of them was really passionate. They clashed like fire and ice. And there were a few steamy kisses, one (yes, one) sex scene which was okay, nothing special. I liked the development of the relationship, but I definitely thought there could have been more heat to the romance, especially given how passionate both of them are.
Overall, this wasn't bad. But read on for what I didn't necessarily like.
What I Did Not Like:
Briannon got on my nerves. I understand that the authors are trying to portray a strong and independent woman, and I'm all for it. But they authors should definitely keep in mind that they're writing in a 1700s/1800s setting. Yes, this is fiction, but it is historical fiction. Briannon was entirely too unconventional and got away with way too many acts and attitudes that were too brash.
And then there was the fact that, even for modern times, Briannon was brash. She was downright hostile towards Archer, and I couldn't quite understand why. Especially since she was attracted to him, started to like him, but was still hostile towards him. It was rude and petty. The authors were going for a strong woman, but she also appeared to be a bit cruel.
I liked Archer, but I thought that he and Briannon were both one-dimensional. There wasn't much character growth, for Briannon, and I was hoping for more from Archer. He showed the most character development, but even he felt flat to me.
I have so many unanswered questions, and this bothered me probably the most, out of anything else. Graham, Briannon's older brother, teaches her swordplay and how to shoot a gun. I wanted to know WHY he was doing that (since it is very rare in this time period). What was the reason? The pair both said over and over how their mother would kill them if she found out. So, why? I support this but it's not quite historically accurate. Especially swordplay - what was the point of introducing swordplay? Shooting comes in handy in the book, but not swordplay.
Another question - why was Archer rumored to have a rakish reputation? He's supposedly cold and unfeeling - oh, and a rake by reputation. Where did that reputation come from? We literally meet NO ex-lovers, And it's clear, after reading from his POV, that he isn't like that. So where did that reputation come from? The authors drop that in there (probably to make him seem like more of a "bad boy/alpha"), but never expounded upon this.
Same with Graham! Graham isn't a huge part of the story, but he also supposedly has a rakish reputation. And yet, Briannon talks as if he is not a rake. But Archer knew him when they were younger, and Archer knew him to be a rake. This inconsistency was never addressed. And I'm still not sure if he actually is a rake, or not. It matters because there are two reputations for Graham (and Archer), and the authors did not make either clear.
And there is the history between the men. They went to school together, or something, and they got along. But Graham hates Archer now, and Archer doesn't love Graham. We get no details as to what happened. Was it a woman? Did Graham think Archer was never good enough to be associated with his family? I'm not sure where the animosity came from, why the men were at odds, but I know for sure that the authors never addressed this. Again, they dropped the detail into the story, and didn't explain it at all.
And can we talk about how Briannon doesn't know Archer or his personal life at all? Archer is not as one-dimensional as Briannon, and he does have a pretty rough past, and his familial life sucks too (past and present). I didn't get the sense that Briannon wanted to ask Archer questions about himself, or wanted to dig deeper. There was a lot of lust on the surface, but did she really care to get to know him? I felt bad for the guy. He gets to know her well, but she's a cold, cruel, and selfish woman.
All of things might seem minor or subjective, so it's best if you form your own opinion (assuming you were previously interested in this book). The little things add up though!
Would I Recommend It:
I don't recommend this book. It's not the best example of historical romance, or even close to such. I could recommend so many better authors/series (Elizabeth Hoyt, Tessa Dare, Elizabeth Boyle, Caroline Linden, Katharine Ashe, etc.). This was an okay first attempt by this duo, but it was not great. Not worth rereading. Not worth reading if you'd never heard of this book or weren't already interested.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded up to 3 stars. I think this book had potential, and I might continue with the series. Maybe. I had high hopes, because of the Robin Hood aspect. I'm somewhat disappointed, though I don't regret giving this book a chance.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
My Rogue, My Ruin by Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan
Book One of the Lords of Essex series
Publisher: Entangled Select
Publication Date: November 21, 2016
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
The Marquess of Hawksfield’s lineage is impeccable and his title coveted, but Archer Croft is as far from his indulgent peers as he can get. His loathing for the beau monde has driven him to don a secret identity and risk everything in order to steal their riches and distribute them to the less fortunate.
Lady Briannon Findlay embraces her encounter with the Masked Marauder, a gentleman thief waylaying carriages from London to Essex. The marauder has stirred Brynn’s craving for adventure, and she discovers an attraction deeper than the charming thief’s mask.
Brynn is a revelation, matching Archer in intelligence, wit, and passion. Stubborn and sensuous in equal measure, she astonishes him at every turn, but when someone sinister impersonates Archer’s secret personality, and a murder is committed, Archer begins to think he doesn’t stand a fighting chance without her.
What I Liked:
An okay first attempt at historical romance, but not great and definitely not a new favorite. This book came highly recommended to me, and I was looking forward to reading it. I think I had more issues with this book than things that I liked, but I am still giving this book a somewhat favorable rating. I know these two authors are experienced Young Adult writers, so I expect them to grow in their historical romance writing.
Archer, the Marquess of Hawksfield, is a lord by day, and Robin Hood by night. He's not actually Robin Hood, but he has been masquerading as a charming bandit, robbing rich lords and ladies and giving the money from the jewels to orphanages and homeless people. One night, Lady Briannon and her family are robbed by the Masked Marauder, and everything changes. She has an attraction for this charming bandit, but she also finds herself drawn to the surly and cold Lord Archer. She'll soon discover that they are one and the same. But when an impostor is masquerading as the Masked Marauder, and disaster strikes in Archer's family, Archer and Briannon will have to make choices that they may not want to face.
Briannon - Brynn - is a feisty and independent unmarried lady, paraded around in balls and social events by her parents (namely, her mother), who want her to get married. Except she wants to marry for love, and not for title or arrangement. One thing is for certain - she really does not want to marry the cold and handsome Lord Archer, whom she's known since they were younger.
Archer seems cold and distant, but he is brimming with selflessness and a passion for helping the less fortunate. He is the heir to a dukedom in dire straits, so donning the Robin-Hood-esque disguise is how he helps the poor. Archer is noble and honorable, extremely polite and perfectly groomed. He's also wickedly charming and considerate, but few know this side of him. Most think that he is a cold and mysterious man. But he's the heir to a dukedom, so most people don't care about his antisocial behavior.
I do like hate-to-love romances, and the romance in this book was just about that. Granted, I thought a lot of Briannon's hostility towards Archer was unwarranted and uncalled for, but the general dynamic between the two of them was really passionate. They clashed like fire and ice. And there were a few steamy kisses, one (yes, one) sex scene which was okay, nothing special. I liked the development of the relationship, but I definitely thought there could have been more heat to the romance, especially given how passionate both of them are.
Overall, this wasn't bad. But read on for what I didn't necessarily like.
What I Did Not Like:
Briannon got on my nerves. I understand that the authors are trying to portray a strong and independent woman, and I'm all for it. But they authors should definitely keep in mind that they're writing in a 1700s/1800s setting. Yes, this is fiction, but it is historical fiction. Briannon was entirely too unconventional and got away with way too many acts and attitudes that were too brash.
And then there was the fact that, even for modern times, Briannon was brash. She was downright hostile towards Archer, and I couldn't quite understand why. Especially since she was attracted to him, started to like him, but was still hostile towards him. It was rude and petty. The authors were going for a strong woman, but she also appeared to be a bit cruel.
I liked Archer, but I thought that he and Briannon were both one-dimensional. There wasn't much character growth, for Briannon, and I was hoping for more from Archer. He showed the most character development, but even he felt flat to me.
I have so many unanswered questions, and this bothered me probably the most, out of anything else. Graham, Briannon's older brother, teaches her swordplay and how to shoot a gun. I wanted to know WHY he was doing that (since it is very rare in this time period). What was the reason? The pair both said over and over how their mother would kill them if she found out. So, why? I support this but it's not quite historically accurate. Especially swordplay - what was the point of introducing swordplay? Shooting comes in handy in the book, but not swordplay.
Another question - why was Archer rumored to have a rakish reputation? He's supposedly cold and unfeeling - oh, and a rake by reputation. Where did that reputation come from? We literally meet NO ex-lovers, And it's clear, after reading from his POV, that he isn't like that. So where did that reputation come from? The authors drop that in there (probably to make him seem like more of a "bad boy/alpha"), but never expounded upon this.
Same with Graham! Graham isn't a huge part of the story, but he also supposedly has a rakish reputation. And yet, Briannon talks as if he is not a rake. But Archer knew him when they were younger, and Archer knew him to be a rake. This inconsistency was never addressed. And I'm still not sure if he actually is a rake, or not. It matters because there are two reputations for Graham (and Archer), and the authors did not make either clear.
And there is the history between the men. They went to school together, or something, and they got along. But Graham hates Archer now, and Archer doesn't love Graham. We get no details as to what happened. Was it a woman? Did Graham think Archer was never good enough to be associated with his family? I'm not sure where the animosity came from, why the men were at odds, but I know for sure that the authors never addressed this. Again, they dropped the detail into the story, and didn't explain it at all.
And can we talk about how Briannon doesn't know Archer or his personal life at all? Archer is not as one-dimensional as Briannon, and he does have a pretty rough past, and his familial life sucks too (past and present). I didn't get the sense that Briannon wanted to ask Archer questions about himself, or wanted to dig deeper. There was a lot of lust on the surface, but did she really care to get to know him? I felt bad for the guy. He gets to know her well, but she's a cold, cruel, and selfish woman.
All of things might seem minor or subjective, so it's best if you form your own opinion (assuming you were previously interested in this book). The little things add up though!
Would I Recommend It:
I don't recommend this book. It's not the best example of historical romance, or even close to such. I could recommend so many better authors/series (Elizabeth Hoyt, Tessa Dare, Elizabeth Boyle, Caroline Linden, Katharine Ashe, etc.). This was an okay first attempt by this duo, but it was not great. Not worth rereading. Not worth reading if you'd never heard of this book or weren't already interested.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded up to 3 stars. I think this book had potential, and I might continue with the series. Maybe. I had high hopes, because of the Robin Hood aspect. I'm somewhat disappointed, though I don't regret giving this book a chance.
November 19, 2016
4.5 Rating
'My Rogue, My Ruin' by Amalie Howard is the story of Archer Croft, The Marquess of Hawksfield and Lady Briannon "Brynn" Findlay. This is my first book by Ms. Howard and I truly enjoyed it. I am so glad to have found this author. Archer and Brynn have been neighbors since they were both young and each played with the others sibling. But Brynn was sick a lot with issues with her lungs so her parents were protective of her so they didn't see to much of each other later in life. But on Brynn's way home with her parents they are set upon by a bandit who is charming but takes their jewelry and money. Brynn is very feisty with him tries to keep a necklace that her grandmother gave her. This sparks some interest in her but he leaves her (and takes that necklace!). Later she meets Archer at a party and she starts to think he might have been the bandit but then why would he be doing this? Archer is attracted to Brynn but thinks very poorly of the town due to his childhood with his father and how his sister is treated by the town. His father doesn't even claim her. So Archer is harden somewhat to the town but does try to to help the poor. I truly liked how Brynn wasn't letting her family slow her down in what she wanted to do. I also liked Archer a lot and how he was fighting he feelings. The secondary characters were some of the best I have read! I truly hope we will be reading their stories too!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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'My Rogue, My Ruin' by Amalie Howard is the story of Archer Croft, The Marquess of Hawksfield and Lady Briannon "Brynn" Findlay. This is my first book by Ms. Howard and I truly enjoyed it. I am so glad to have found this author. Archer and Brynn have been neighbors since they were both young and each played with the others sibling. But Brynn was sick a lot with issues with her lungs so her parents were protective of her so they didn't see to much of each other later in life. But on Brynn's way home with her parents they are set upon by a bandit who is charming but takes their jewelry and money. Brynn is very feisty with him tries to keep a necklace that her grandmother gave her. This sparks some interest in her but he leaves her (and takes that necklace!). Later she meets Archer at a party and she starts to think he might have been the bandit but then why would he be doing this? Archer is attracted to Brynn but thinks very poorly of the town due to his childhood with his father and how his sister is treated by the town. His father doesn't even claim her. So Archer is harden somewhat to the town but does try to to help the poor. I truly liked how Brynn wasn't letting her family slow her down in what she wanted to do. I also liked Archer a lot and how he was fighting he feelings. The secondary characters were some of the best I have read! I truly hope we will be reading their stories too!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
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July 8, 2021
Rollicking twisty ride
Murder and mayhem and masked mauraders, oh my! Crazy book but it was good. The hero was annoying at times but he definitely ended up atoning for his actions. The heroine had weak lungs and was a sickly child. She still had spells and she was never cured of it either. The hero was pretending to be a highwayman, or I should say was a highwayman, and robbed from the rich and have to the poor. Someone started impersonating him but they were evil and abusive. Jersey out to find them. His Father was a pig for sure and ends up chasing after the heroine, wanting her for his wife. He was a lecher and I didn't know where the book was heading or if I even wAnted to continue on that journey, but there is a shocking turn of events and a murder. It all gets a little crazy but the end was still good. This introduced a lot of characters but as much as I have enjoyed this author, the remaining books in the series don't sound appealing to me. I read the 1st and the 4th, and the Tartans and Titans series which ties all this together and should be read before this series, though honestly I read them backwards and it still was good. I like these authors and will read her again.
Murder and mayhem and masked mauraders, oh my! Crazy book but it was good. The hero was annoying at times but he definitely ended up atoning for his actions. The heroine had weak lungs and was a sickly child. She still had spells and she was never cured of it either. The hero was pretending to be a highwayman, or I should say was a highwayman, and robbed from the rich and have to the poor. Someone started impersonating him but they were evil and abusive. Jersey out to find them. His Father was a pig for sure and ends up chasing after the heroine, wanting her for his wife. He was a lecher and I didn't know where the book was heading or if I even wAnted to continue on that journey, but there is a shocking turn of events and a murder. It all gets a little crazy but the end was still good. This introduced a lot of characters but as much as I have enjoyed this author, the remaining books in the series don't sound appealing to me. I read the 1st and the 4th, and the Tartans and Titans series which ties all this together and should be read before this series, though honestly I read them backwards and it still was good. I like these authors and will read her again.
November 22, 2016
Light, entertaining, surprisingly deep and absolutely slow-burning.
It was my first book by Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan duet, and unexpectedly a good one. I am a sucker for masked heroes a-la Robin Hood or Zorro who steal from the rich to give to the poor, and in the process save/fall in love with a princess or a heiress in our case, who has quite a temper of her own. Such annotation promises a lot of fun, don't you think? And My Rogue, My Ruin delivers quite well on its promise.
But I wouldn't call this book all funny and light. The authors touched some topics that were quite serious: disbalance between rich and poor; the only thing that defines whether a person is going to be born into a life of privilege or hard-work is title. The other issue is what does it mean for a person to be an illegitimate child; you can't have a decent future if you a bustard child of a lord, shunned by society.
The other thing I really liked and was surprised by is the villain. I am telling you: no way I would've guessed the culprit. It was quite an unexpected move that made me appreciate this book even more. A decently done mystery is a rare thing in Historical Romance genre, so I am applauding the authors for the excellently done job in the villain department.
The romance between main characters was hot and slow-burning; there wasn't rush decisions or instant love proclamations. The characters were believable and likable in both romance and in fighting their own demons.
One more thing I absolutely liked about this book is how the authors gave us hints and little snippets of the secondary characters' stories. I think we'll see more books from their POVs - so far I counted two more potential stories - and I am really intrigued to read them.
Like from any adult romance, I expected sex scenes and lewd phrases in this book. The good thing, it doesn't have much of the latter: everything was rather decent and without overly explicit scenes. Not that I don't like hot in romance books, I totally do, but I am glad this book kept the sexy on a decent level.
The other thing that bothered me a little is the lack of the masked bandit. I know, I know, I said this book was about the masked bandit, but it felt like there wasn't enough of the said bandit: a couple of scenes and most of the time only talk of him and his doings. I wish there were more Zorro-like scenes, because what girl can resist Zorro, right?
All in all, a really nice historical romance debut. If you are looking for a good mystery story in a romance book with reasonable characters and slow-burning romance, this book might keep you company for an evening or two.
*A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
February 4, 2017
When I read the storyline of My Rogue, My Ruin – in which the hero is a kind of latter-day Robin Hood – it was obvious I was going to have to be prepared to suspend my disbelief to a larger degree than normal. But that’s okay. I was in the mood for an adventure story, and if an author (in this case authors) can spin a good yarn without too many contrivances and create interesting characters I can root for, then I can accept a degree of implausibility. And as Ms. Howard and Ms. Morgan quite quickly managed to do both, things went swimmingly for the first part of the book. There’s the usual (unfortunate) smattering of Americanisms and a few small anachronisms, but the characters and motivations were established well and I was enjoying the story. But as the book progressed and the pacing started to flag, those errors and inconsistencies began to happen more frequently, culminating in an inaccuracy so large, that I had to ask myself not only if the authors had done any research at all, but also if they’d ever read an historical romance before.
But I’m getting ahead of myself, because in spite of what I’ve just said, there ARE things to enjoy in this book, which saved it from receiving a much lower rating.
Archer Croft, Marquess of Hawkesfield has a reputation for being aloof, ruthless and bad-tempered, all things that make him the complete opposite of his life-and-soul-of-the-party father, the Duke of Bradburne, whose sobriquet of ‘The Dancing Duke’ pretty much sums him up. He lives for wine, women and song – probably not so much the song – indulging his dissolute lifestyle to the extent that he has nearly bankrupted his estate and forced his son to assume the reins of the dukedom far earlier than he would otherwise have done. His constant infidelities were naturally a matter of great unhappiness for Archer’s late mother, who actually took in one of the duke’s by-blows and brought her up as her ward. But Bradburne refused to acknowledge Eloise as his daughter, and pretty much ignored her, behaviour that has continued since his wife’s death some years earlier, in a fire which also left Eloise badly scarred.
Unlike many of his peers, Archer is strongly motivated to improve the lot of the less fortunate in society, and he spares as much money as he can for charitable causes. But that isn’t – and can never be – enough, and it’s this that has led him to turn highwayman; but he takes only from those who can afford it and uses all the proceeds to help those in need.
When the book opens, Archer – or rather, the Masked Marauder – is in the process of robbing Lord and Lady Dinsmore and their daughter, Lady Briannon, on the road that joins their two estates. Even though they are neighbours, he hasn’t seen Briannon for years, and is impressed with the way she refuses to give ground even as he is stealing from her and her family.
In the days following the robbery Briannon – or Brynn as she is referred to in the chapters from her PoV – is shocked to find her thoughts so preoccupied by the handsome highwayman, and especially by the reaction evoked by the memory of the gentleness of his touch as he relieved her of her grandmother’s pearls. But that doesn’t mean she doesn’t despise both him and his way of life.
Archer was similarly entranced by the glimpses of fire in Lady Briannon’s eyes that night, but can’t afford to become emotionally attached to anyone. He has recently received a couple of anonymous notes which indicate that someone else is aware of his secret occupation and he must focus on tracking down that person and finding out what they know. And I will say at this point that the authors do a great job of concealing the villain’s identity, because I couldn’t narrow down the list of suspects to just one.
So far, so good. Both principals are well-drawn, and Archer’s motivations – which stem from his mother’s desire to atone for the duke’s treatment of Eloise’s mother and women like her – are effectively explained and make sense. I liked the set-up, with Archer now having to fear exposure from an unknown source, and expected the story to be about his search for that source while trying to keep his secret and falling in love with Briannon. But then, the authors ramp up the tension with the introduction of a copy-cat highwayman whose vicious, violent acts are laid at the door of the Masked Marauder, making life for Archer even more difficult and dangerous.
But the pacing starts to lag around the middle of the book; a terrible murder is committed, and it seems that someone is trying to point the finger at Archer for that, too – but somehow the tension slacks off instead of heightening, and even though this allows room for some romantic development, both Briannon and Archer act inconsistently. They indulge in heated kisses and passionate interludes, but then one of them pushes the other away for reasons I couldn’t quite make out, and this continues until almost the end of the book.
The last quarter of the story picks up again with the couple coming up with a plan to draw out the villain – but this is where the authors drop the most enormous clanger. Without giving too much away, Archer and Briannon host a ball just a week after the death of a family member. Anyone who has read only a few historical romances, or who has done the thirty seconds’ research I just did by Googling “nineteenth century mourning conventions” would know that people in mourning – which could last for months or years – were not supposed to socialise at all, let alone host a massive society event. I had already suffered through the lack of knowledge of men’s and ladies’ attire (there was no such thing as a Dinner Jacket and ladies didn’t wear bloomers – mostly because they hadn’t been invented yet!), the scene of our heroine attempting to dress a gunshot wound to the thigh sustained by the hero but instead spending her time ogling his wedding tackle, and the ridiculousness of a highwayman holding up a coach in the middle of London – but the ball-in-mourning was a faux-pas too far, and it threw me so far out of the story that instead of being eager for the dénouement, I just wanted it to be over. And speaking of wanting it to be over, the sex scene that takes place right before the epilogue is unnecessary and feels as though it’s been tacked on because, hey, it’s a romance and there has to be some nookie.
It’s obvious that I’m not going to recommend My Rogue, My Ruin. BUT – the authors have shown that they can craft a decent plot and create engaging characters who possess depth and insight. There are clearly more stories to be told – I was intrigued by Lana, the Russian maid; and Rhiannon’s brother, Gray, will make an attractive hero. So I may try another book by Ms. Howard and Ms. Morgan in the hope that next time, they will do some actual research into their historical setting and perhaps delay the ogling of manly bulges until the hero isn’t almost unconscious and in excruciating pain.
But I’m getting ahead of myself, because in spite of what I’ve just said, there ARE things to enjoy in this book, which saved it from receiving a much lower rating.
Archer Croft, Marquess of Hawkesfield has a reputation for being aloof, ruthless and bad-tempered, all things that make him the complete opposite of his life-and-soul-of-the-party father, the Duke of Bradburne, whose sobriquet of ‘The Dancing Duke’ pretty much sums him up. He lives for wine, women and song – probably not so much the song – indulging his dissolute lifestyle to the extent that he has nearly bankrupted his estate and forced his son to assume the reins of the dukedom far earlier than he would otherwise have done. His constant infidelities were naturally a matter of great unhappiness for Archer’s late mother, who actually took in one of the duke’s by-blows and brought her up as her ward. But Bradburne refused to acknowledge Eloise as his daughter, and pretty much ignored her, behaviour that has continued since his wife’s death some years earlier, in a fire which also left Eloise badly scarred.
Unlike many of his peers, Archer is strongly motivated to improve the lot of the less fortunate in society, and he spares as much money as he can for charitable causes. But that isn’t – and can never be – enough, and it’s this that has led him to turn highwayman; but he takes only from those who can afford it and uses all the proceeds to help those in need.
When the book opens, Archer – or rather, the Masked Marauder – is in the process of robbing Lord and Lady Dinsmore and their daughter, Lady Briannon, on the road that joins their two estates. Even though they are neighbours, he hasn’t seen Briannon for years, and is impressed with the way she refuses to give ground even as he is stealing from her and her family.
In the days following the robbery Briannon – or Brynn as she is referred to in the chapters from her PoV – is shocked to find her thoughts so preoccupied by the handsome highwayman, and especially by the reaction evoked by the memory of the gentleness of his touch as he relieved her of her grandmother’s pearls. But that doesn’t mean she doesn’t despise both him and his way of life.
Archer was similarly entranced by the glimpses of fire in Lady Briannon’s eyes that night, but can’t afford to become emotionally attached to anyone. He has recently received a couple of anonymous notes which indicate that someone else is aware of his secret occupation and he must focus on tracking down that person and finding out what they know. And I will say at this point that the authors do a great job of concealing the villain’s identity, because I couldn’t narrow down the list of suspects to just one.
So far, so good. Both principals are well-drawn, and Archer’s motivations – which stem from his mother’s desire to atone for the duke’s treatment of Eloise’s mother and women like her – are effectively explained and make sense. I liked the set-up, with Archer now having to fear exposure from an unknown source, and expected the story to be about his search for that source while trying to keep his secret and falling in love with Briannon. But then, the authors ramp up the tension with the introduction of a copy-cat highwayman whose vicious, violent acts are laid at the door of the Masked Marauder, making life for Archer even more difficult and dangerous.
But the pacing starts to lag around the middle of the book; a terrible murder is committed, and it seems that someone is trying to point the finger at Archer for that, too – but somehow the tension slacks off instead of heightening, and even though this allows room for some romantic development, both Briannon and Archer act inconsistently. They indulge in heated kisses and passionate interludes, but then one of them pushes the other away for reasons I couldn’t quite make out, and this continues until almost the end of the book.
The last quarter of the story picks up again with the couple coming up with a plan to draw out the villain – but this is where the authors drop the most enormous clanger. Without giving too much away, Archer and Briannon host a ball just a week after the death of a family member. Anyone who has read only a few historical romances, or who has done the thirty seconds’ research I just did by Googling “nineteenth century mourning conventions” would know that people in mourning – which could last for months or years – were not supposed to socialise at all, let alone host a massive society event. I had already suffered through the lack of knowledge of men’s and ladies’ attire (there was no such thing as a Dinner Jacket and ladies didn’t wear bloomers – mostly because they hadn’t been invented yet!), the scene of our heroine attempting to dress a gunshot wound to the thigh sustained by the hero but instead spending her time ogling his wedding tackle, and the ridiculousness of a highwayman holding up a coach in the middle of London – but the ball-in-mourning was a faux-pas too far, and it threw me so far out of the story that instead of being eager for the dénouement, I just wanted it to be over. And speaking of wanting it to be over, the sex scene that takes place right before the epilogue is unnecessary and feels as though it’s been tacked on because, hey, it’s a romance and there has to be some nookie.
It’s obvious that I’m not going to recommend My Rogue, My Ruin. BUT – the authors have shown that they can craft a decent plot and create engaging characters who possess depth and insight. There are clearly more stories to be told – I was intrigued by Lana, the Russian maid; and Rhiannon’s brother, Gray, will make an attractive hero. So I may try another book by Ms. Howard and Ms. Morgan in the hope that next time, they will do some actual research into their historical setting and perhaps delay the ogling of manly bulges until the hero isn’t almost unconscious and in excruciating pain.
March 5, 2023
The story was okay. A little bit of an adventure, a little bit of romance, and a murder mystery.
Archer, our hero, is a marquess (and a duke's heir) by day and a highwayman called The Masked Marauder by night. He robs the rich (no violence) and gives to the poor. Someone knows his secret and is impersonating the Masked Marauder using violence. I thought there was a better solution to helping the poor than putting his neck on the line because if he's ever caught, he'll be hanged.
Briannon or Brynn, our heroine, is an unconventional lady. She can fence and shoot a pistol. She rides astride and wears her brother's old breeches. She is sickly (something is wrong with her lungs). I do like that she has a loving family (2 parents and a brother named Graham). That isn't to say that her mother doesn't want her to find a suitor and marry.
They're neighbors but know so little about each other and that is never explained. Archer and Graham attended school together but don't like each other now. Brynn and Eloise (Archer's half-sister) used to be friends but now they're just acquaintances.
There was a scene in which I was surprised by the heroine's actions.
At first, I suspected the copycat Masked Marauder was
The pacing was slow and the H/h did not make love until 96% mark. Fortunately, the authors gave readers some kisses and some touch and feel along the way to sustain us.
I want more romance in my HRs so I won't be continuing this series.
Archer, our hero, is a marquess (and a duke's heir) by day and a highwayman called The Masked Marauder by night. He robs the rich (no violence) and gives to the poor. Someone knows his secret and is impersonating the Masked Marauder using violence. I thought there was a better solution to helping the poor than putting his neck on the line because if he's ever caught, he'll be hanged.
Briannon or Brynn, our heroine, is an unconventional lady. She can fence and shoot a pistol. She rides astride and wears her brother's old breeches. She is sickly (something is wrong with her lungs). I do like that she has a loving family (2 parents and a brother named Graham). That isn't to say that her mother doesn't want her to find a suitor and marry.
They're neighbors but know so little about each other and that is never explained. Archer and Graham attended school together but don't like each other now. Brynn and Eloise (Archer's half-sister) used to be friends but now they're just acquaintances.
There was a scene in which I was surprised by the heroine's actions.
At first, I suspected the copycat Masked Marauder was
The pacing was slow and the H/h did not make love until 96% mark. Fortunately, the authors gave readers some kisses and some touch and feel along the way to sustain us.
I want more romance in my HRs so I won't be continuing this series.
to-read-maybe-maybe-not
May 17, 202029% DNF (17/5/2020)
I may come back to this at some point, but the plot and characters are not drawing me in
I may come back to this at some point, but the plot and characters are not drawing me in
November 22, 2016
Shadow's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
This was a rousing romp of an adventure story, with a bad boy hero, a strong heroine and a captivating story line.
Although the setting is Regency England, bring it forward a dozen decades and the hero, Archer Croft, The Marquess of Hawksfield , would be a rebel on a motorcycle. Set it back a few decades and he would be Robin Hood. As it is, in protest of his father's ways and treatment of his mother, Archer turns himself into a highwayman, with all the proceeds from his activities donated to the poor. Unfortunately for him, one of his first robberies turns out to be the neighbors, including their lovely daughter, Lady Briannon Findlay. Unlike most of the simpering misses of the ton, Lady Briannon is miffed that she doesn't have her pistol with her to stop the robbery. Unconventional in every sense, Briannon rides astride and bareback, calmly takes on a wild boar, shoots a highwayman, and yet can dance and converse in the loftiest society circles.
As the two are thrown together, both in social circles and as neighbors, Briannon begins to realize who the highwayman really is-but when an imposter begins robbing people-and hurting them-she is prepared to turn him into the authorities. Can Archer find a way to stop the imposter, clear his name, and keep Briannon safe?
Both main characters were easy to like, and the story line kept the reader's interest. There were no obvious anachronisms, although a lady wearing pants and riding astride would have been unheard of in Regency England.
A very pleasant read with charming characters, a strong story, and a glimpse at a far different age, this one rates 4 stars.
ARC provided with no expectations.
This was a rousing romp of an adventure story, with a bad boy hero, a strong heroine and a captivating story line.
Although the setting is Regency England, bring it forward a dozen decades and the hero, Archer Croft, The Marquess of Hawksfield , would be a rebel on a motorcycle. Set it back a few decades and he would be Robin Hood. As it is, in protest of his father's ways and treatment of his mother, Archer turns himself into a highwayman, with all the proceeds from his activities donated to the poor. Unfortunately for him, one of his first robberies turns out to be the neighbors, including their lovely daughter, Lady Briannon Findlay. Unlike most of the simpering misses of the ton, Lady Briannon is miffed that she doesn't have her pistol with her to stop the robbery. Unconventional in every sense, Briannon rides astride and bareback, calmly takes on a wild boar, shoots a highwayman, and yet can dance and converse in the loftiest society circles.
As the two are thrown together, both in social circles and as neighbors, Briannon begins to realize who the highwayman really is-but when an imposter begins robbing people-and hurting them-she is prepared to turn him into the authorities. Can Archer find a way to stop the imposter, clear his name, and keep Briannon safe?
Both main characters were easy to like, and the story line kept the reader's interest. There were no obvious anachronisms, although a lady wearing pants and riding astride would have been unheard of in Regency England.
A very pleasant read with charming characters, a strong story, and a glimpse at a far different age, this one rates 4 stars.
ARC provided with no expectations.
July 24, 2025
3.5 stars. No real complaints for this historical romance/murder mystery! Actually, I suppose my only halfhearted complaint is the cover – for some reason, I found myself embarrassed whenever my husband would grab the book, shake the cover in my face, and demand, “Who’s this??” Haha.
THE GOOD
1) Even though I guessed the villain of the story from the beginning, I thought it was a good twist that would keep you guessing as to the identity of the killer.
2) I enjoyed the Robin Hood-esque twist to what might otherwise have been just another Regency romance.
3) The rare instance where the male main character is not a notorious rake.
THE MEH
Just book chemistry, really.
THE GOOD
1) Even though I guessed the villain of the story from the beginning, I thought it was a good twist that would keep you guessing as to the identity of the killer.
2) I enjoyed the Robin Hood-esque twist to what might otherwise have been just another Regency romance.
3) The rare instance where the male main character is not a notorious rake.
THE MEH
Just book chemistry, really.
November 21, 2016
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
It has been a long time since I’ve read a historical romance and I’m really glad I picked this one up. My Rogue, My Ruin was a wonderful blend of romance and mystery with a retelling twist. I enjoyed this one from beginning to end.
Both Brynn and Archer are great characters and I especially loved their dynamic and banter. Brynn is so fierce, especially for the time period, and I so so loved that. And I loved even more that this is exactly why Archer fell for her. He didn’t notice her until he saw behind her proper mask. He loved that she was strong. I also loved that Archer was a bit on the grumpy side. Archer also has such a big heart and you can’t help but love him. Their romance is great and I loved watching them fall for one another.
I also really loved the mystery aspect. I really enjoyed putting the pieces together and trying to figure out who was sabotaging Archer. I had my suspicions, but I never one hundred percent guessed who was behind it all. I thought this added another layer to the story that really kept the reader engaged.
The only thing with My Rogue, My Ruin is that it does take a bit to get going and there is a lot of inner monologue. This is not a quick read; it’s more of a slow burn where you really pull apart the mystery piece by piece. The slower pace was both great at building the suspense and great at frustrating the reader to no end. In the end I think it worked for the story.
My Rogue, My Ruin is a very good read. It’s a really enjoyable historical romance with a fun Robin Hood twist thrown in. Definitely one I recommend.
It has been a long time since I’ve read a historical romance and I’m really glad I picked this one up. My Rogue, My Ruin was a wonderful blend of romance and mystery with a retelling twist. I enjoyed this one from beginning to end.
Both Brynn and Archer are great characters and I especially loved their dynamic and banter. Brynn is so fierce, especially for the time period, and I so so loved that. And I loved even more that this is exactly why Archer fell for her. He didn’t notice her until he saw behind her proper mask. He loved that she was strong. I also loved that Archer was a bit on the grumpy side. Archer also has such a big heart and you can’t help but love him. Their romance is great and I loved watching them fall for one another.
I also really loved the mystery aspect. I really enjoyed putting the pieces together and trying to figure out who was sabotaging Archer. I had my suspicions, but I never one hundred percent guessed who was behind it all. I thought this added another layer to the story that really kept the reader engaged.
The only thing with My Rogue, My Ruin is that it does take a bit to get going and there is a lot of inner monologue. This is not a quick read; it’s more of a slow burn where you really pull apart the mystery piece by piece. The slower pace was both great at building the suspense and great at frustrating the reader to no end. In the end I think it worked for the story.
My Rogue, My Ruin is a very good read. It’s a really enjoyable historical romance with a fun Robin Hood twist thrown in. Definitely one I recommend.
November 18, 2020
I liked the smart heroine who has real health concerns. She's smart, independent and a good person. The plot makes the H into a ridiculous character. I really didn't like him, as he's a weak person, arrogant in his righteousness. I did like the h's reaction when she saw him in his drawers, and kept her hands to herself. She showed her integrity, his was missing. It's also got a murder mystery and I had no clue who was the baddie until the end. Didn't like 'Robin Hood' plot.
April 22, 2023
Well, this really didn't work for me.
If it had been way shorter I would probably have enjoyed it more. But there's only so many times I can read about one MC thinking about the other MC and how much they turn them on or how drive them crazy or whatever.
Brynn wasn't the worst case of not-like-other-girls but it was there all the same. Archer was so boring. I'm supposed to believe he cares about poor people and robbing others is the only way he can help them but bitch plz. You are the son of a Duke. Atl try to fight more for systemic change. And then you plan to improve your finances through investments, cause there's never any negatives or shadiness there. To me, it felt like big part of why he was the Marauder was just to make himself feel better. Just as his sis said.
And the reveal of the whodunit. That whole case was lackluster but the reveal... Really didn't work. I didn't see it coming, sure, but that doesn't make it good. That character deserved way better and it was such a huuuuge shift in character. Blah.
The 3 men who get the next stories do intrigue me (esp the scarred one and the scot) but not sure I will give them a go.
If it had been way shorter I would probably have enjoyed it more. But there's only so many times I can read about one MC thinking about the other MC and how much they turn them on or how drive them crazy or whatever.
Brynn wasn't the worst case of not-like-other-girls but it was there all the same. Archer was so boring. I'm supposed to believe he cares about poor people and robbing others is the only way he can help them but bitch plz. You are the son of a Duke. Atl try to fight more for systemic change. And then you plan to improve your finances through investments, cause there's never any negatives or shadiness there. To me, it felt like big part of why he was the Marauder was just to make himself feel better. Just as his sis said.
And the reveal of the whodunit. That whole case was lackluster but the reveal... Really didn't work. I didn't see it coming, sure, but that doesn't make it good. That character deserved way better and it was such a huuuuge shift in character. Blah.
The 3 men who get the next stories do intrigue me (esp the scarred one and the scot) but not sure I will give them a go.
July 28, 2021
I listened to this on Hoopla, and I really liked it. Bravo to the Narrator, Paul Woodson.
August 1, 2021
Amalie Howard's historicals are always fun, and I love how much trouble the female lead is causing our male lead ... in both of their public and secret identities. I was looking forward to what they'd get up to once they each realize who the other one is and was not disappointed.
Was not expecting that ending at all. The bad guy was a complete surprise, which I love. I'm a little sad over it, honestly, but the overall story is a good one, and liked how it eventually wrapped up.
Was not expecting that ending at all. The bad guy was a complete surprise, which I love. I'm a little sad over it, honestly, but the overall story is a good one, and liked how it eventually wrapped up.
February 8, 2023
Not bad.
January 12, 2023
Wonderful story filled with intrigue and romance. Lord Archer Croft, the Marquess of Hawksfield has met his match in Lady Briannon Findlay, and watching the journey is a great read. Couldn't put it down.
November 21, 2016
I love reading historical romance to break my usual YA marathons with something different, so when I heard that Amalie Howard & Angie Morgan (two YA writers that I love) were going to write historical romance together, I was so very excited and I'm happy to hear, the resulting product didn't disappoint!
I was quite intrigued from the very beginning, with the meet up of our characters in a rather unexpected way! I love how both Brynn and Archer are both rather unusual in their own ways, even if Briannon has to curb her self and her insticts because as a lady of the ton, she's not supposed to want anything different than snagging a duke. I love that she's got her rebellions and her strength despite having being a sickly child & still being smothered a bit by her mother and her protective brother.
Archer was unusual in his own way too, not only because he was raised with different values than the rest of the aristocracy and that shapes the way he acts, the alter ego he takes up at night, and the problem he find himself in with a blackmailer and an impostor, and if that was not enough, murder suspect!
The chemistry between Brynn and Archer was rather off the charts, but those two kept being on denial for such a long time and I really wanted to shake them and push them together!
I was completely surprised with the reveal of the bad guy and I really liked that there was more than just the romance in the book, with a murder mystery and the mystery of who is the impostor Masked Marauder that's making the stakes so much higher for Archer!
With a heroine that can shoot & ride and a hero that can sew and be rake at the same time, this was a fantastic fast read, even if it had a little bit more of emotional drama that I usually prefer!
Now I cannot wait till I get my hands on the next book in the series, since I got confirmation that will be about Gray and Lana!
Very much deserved 4 stars for My Rogue, My Ruin! I need all the Amalie & Angie historical romance, please and thank you!
I was quite intrigued from the very beginning, with the meet up of our characters in a rather unexpected way! I love how both Brynn and Archer are both rather unusual in their own ways, even if Briannon has to curb her self and her insticts because as a lady of the ton, she's not supposed to want anything different than snagging a duke. I love that she's got her rebellions and her strength despite having being a sickly child & still being smothered a bit by her mother and her protective brother.
Archer was unusual in his own way too, not only because he was raised with different values than the rest of the aristocracy and that shapes the way he acts, the alter ego he takes up at night, and the problem he find himself in with a blackmailer and an impostor, and if that was not enough, murder suspect!
The chemistry between Brynn and Archer was rather off the charts, but those two kept being on denial for such a long time and I really wanted to shake them and push them together!
I was completely surprised with the reveal of the bad guy and I really liked that there was more than just the romance in the book, with a murder mystery and the mystery of who is the impostor Masked Marauder that's making the stakes so much higher for Archer!
With a heroine that can shoot & ride and a hero that can sew and be rake at the same time, this was a fantastic fast read, even if it had a little bit more of emotional drama that I usually prefer!
Now I cannot wait till I get my hands on the next book in the series, since I got confirmation that will be about Gray and Lana!
Very much deserved 4 stars for My Rogue, My Ruin! I need all the Amalie & Angie historical romance, please and thank you!
December 13, 2016
I appreciate that new voices are appearing in the world of Historical Romances when only a few years ago some claimed the genre was dead. Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan have some good ideas to bring to the table in their first release My Rogue, My Ruin but not everything in the story works within the constraints of its historical setting.
What drew me into the story was the promise of a Robin Hood type hero and Lord Hawksfield is certainly dedicated to his mission to rob from the rich to give back to the poor. Archer Croft sees the debauched behavior of his father, the Duke of Bradburne, as the worst example of the privileged few controlling the wealth while the masses struggle daily. His mother was the first to teach him charity and compassion towards others when she raised one of her husband’s bastard children as her own daughter. After the duchess died, Archer took it upon himself to continue her charitable work but found that the family’s coffers were being drained constantly by his father’s dissolute lifestyle. Having no control over his the duke’s expenditures, Archer instead turns towards other peers by creating a highwayman persona of the Masked Marauder who robs the carriages of the elite. Their wealth is redistributed and Archer’s conscience is clear since no one is truly hurt in the exchange.
During one of his evening raids as the Marauder, Archer stops the carriage of his neighbor Lord Dinsmore and his family. The plan for this robbery was the same as all of the others until he sees the man’s daughter, Lady Briannon. He’s impressed with the young woman’s bravery in the face of danger and there’s just a hint of attraction sparking between them even as he takes her jewelry.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
What drew me into the story was the promise of a Robin Hood type hero and Lord Hawksfield is certainly dedicated to his mission to rob from the rich to give back to the poor. Archer Croft sees the debauched behavior of his father, the Duke of Bradburne, as the worst example of the privileged few controlling the wealth while the masses struggle daily. His mother was the first to teach him charity and compassion towards others when she raised one of her husband’s bastard children as her own daughter. After the duchess died, Archer took it upon himself to continue her charitable work but found that the family’s coffers were being drained constantly by his father’s dissolute lifestyle. Having no control over his the duke’s expenditures, Archer instead turns towards other peers by creating a highwayman persona of the Masked Marauder who robs the carriages of the elite. Their wealth is redistributed and Archer’s conscience is clear since no one is truly hurt in the exchange.
During one of his evening raids as the Marauder, Archer stops the carriage of his neighbor Lord Dinsmore and his family. The plan for this robbery was the same as all of the others until he sees the man’s daughter, Lady Briannon. He’s impressed with the young woman’s bravery in the face of danger and there’s just a hint of attraction sparking between them even as he takes her jewelry.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
November 21, 2016
It's an intriguing historical novel, full of mystery, adventure, and romance. I loved it. The story is quite good and well-written. I loved Archer and Briannon. Both are unconventional and looking for adventure, which they find soon enough.
Archer doesn't agree with his father on anything. He has made his own life, away from the ton. But he is not ready to share this life with anyone. He is considered aloof and rude. He likes it that way, he likes to keep everyone at arm's length. But Brynn is different. She is unlike any Lady he knows, and she intrigues him.
Brynn doesn't like Archer at all. Although he is very handsome and she cannot deny the attraction she feels but she knows that he is not good enough for her. Her brother agrees. So when Archer decides to keep an eye on her, it annoys her to no end. She doesn't want to spend any time with him, yet they constantly find themselves in each others company.
But soon things become serious and may be even dangerous for them. There is someone out there who doesn't have Archer's best interest at heart. He must find that person before things get out of hand.
I quite enjoyed reading it and would recommend to all historical fiction fans.
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Archer doesn't agree with his father on anything. He has made his own life, away from the ton. But he is not ready to share this life with anyone. He is considered aloof and rude. He likes it that way, he likes to keep everyone at arm's length. But Brynn is different. She is unlike any Lady he knows, and she intrigues him.
Brynn doesn't like Archer at all. Although he is very handsome and she cannot deny the attraction she feels but she knows that he is not good enough for her. Her brother agrees. So when Archer decides to keep an eye on her, it annoys her to no end. She doesn't want to spend any time with him, yet they constantly find themselves in each others company.
But soon things become serious and may be even dangerous for them. There is someone out there who doesn't have Archer's best interest at heart. He must find that person before things get out of hand.
I quite enjoyed reading it and would recommend to all historical fiction fans.
http://www.mineofbooks.blogspot.com/
November 25, 2016
My Rogue, My Ruin has just the right amount of romance and mystery with a twist that keeps the reader invested in the read. Who doesn’t love a mask man who pulls you in giving you a feel of mystery and danger? This was a very intriguing read from start to finish with delightful characters you get hook from the start. For me it started out a little slow but soon took over my mind as the authors give you a few twists.
Both main characters have their own strengths and weaknesses which blend together very well. Archer not only strong but very intelligent where Brynn was passionate and very determined they really bring out the best in each other. Archer is a type of Robin Hood taking from the rich giving to the poor.
When Brynn is held up at gun point with the mask man taking her grandma's pearls he leaves a lasting impression on her she just can’t seem to forget him. When someone mimetic him with violence and murder he turns to Brynn he needs her help to bring them out. This is a story that is full of surprises it will shock you to find out who the imposters are. I thought it was well written keeping the readers attention giving you a highly entertaining read you get lost in.
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Both main characters have their own strengths and weaknesses which blend together very well. Archer not only strong but very intelligent where Brynn was passionate and very determined they really bring out the best in each other. Archer is a type of Robin Hood taking from the rich giving to the poor.
When Brynn is held up at gun point with the mask man taking her grandma's pearls he leaves a lasting impression on her she just can’t seem to forget him. When someone mimetic him with violence and murder he turns to Brynn he needs her help to bring them out. This is a story that is full of surprises it will shock you to find out who the imposters are. I thought it was well written keeping the readers attention giving you a highly entertaining read you get lost in.
********************************
November 21, 2016
This is my first time reading both of these authors and I must admit that the cover was the first thing that attracted me to this story. I mean, HELLO!!! Just look at it! The second being the book blurb. It really set up the story well and I couldn't wait to read it.
There is precedence of two authors co-writing one novel and most of the time this concept works. This is not the case with this book. It didn't take me long to figure out what went wrong, but before I get to it, let me say that the writing wasn't bad. It was decent and I could tell these two authors could write. I just don't think they should write together. I think the characterization, plot and pace suffered because the reader is left baffled by storylines not finished and characters that are mostly one-dimensional.
I'm really sorry to say, but I wouldn't recommend it and I don't think I'll continue with the series.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
There is precedence of two authors co-writing one novel and most of the time this concept works. This is not the case with this book. It didn't take me long to figure out what went wrong, but before I get to it, let me say that the writing wasn't bad. It was decent and I could tell these two authors could write. I just don't think they should write together. I think the characterization, plot and pace suffered because the reader is left baffled by storylines not finished and characters that are mostly one-dimensional.
I'm really sorry to say, but I wouldn't recommend it and I don't think I'll continue with the series.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
December 15, 2018
Amalie Howard and Angie Morgan have never failed to entertain as Y/A authors. And now they are thrilling readers with historical romance tales! MY ROGUE, MY RUIN will have you turning pages into the wee hours and then dreaming of the adventures of the daring hero. Perhaps even a swoon or two?
December 20, 2018
My Rogue, My Ruin was an absolutely delightful romance with a charming Robin Hood-esque twist.
The Marquess of Hawksfield, Archer Croft, despises the over-indulgence of his peers in the ton. Due to his hatred, he has become the Masked Marauder, who waylays unsuspecting carriages to relieve the passengers of their riches in order to give back to the less fortunate. On one such occasion, Lady Briannon Findlay and her family are stopped by the Marauder and forced to give up their possessions. Brynn is reluctant to give up a necklace gifted to her by her grandmother and engages in a battle of wills with the thief. Despite knowing better, Brynn feels an attraction to this thief and so begins the adventure Brynn has longed for all her life.
Brynn is by far my favorite character in this book. She's strong-willed, intelligent and fights for what she wants in life. Despite an illness that has plagued her for her entire life, Brynn doesn't let anything stop her from living life to the fullest. She excels at activities traditionally reserved for men, such as fencing and shooting, and has a wonderful outlook on life. She also has the a great sense of humor. Archer is a much more reserved and serious individual than Brynn. After losing his mother in a tragic accident, he's set himself on a path to give back to those less fortunate as that was one of his mother's passions. Archer does not believe in love and happily ever after due to the way his father leads his life.
I enjoyed the relationship between Archer and Brynn immensely. Their first meeting, with Archer as himself, went horribly and I wondered at how the authors would turn things around. I enjoyed the banter that developed between these two and I loved when they got to be alone and let their true selves come out. Also, the physical attraction between these two was off the charts and I very much enjoyed watching them act on that attraction. It was also so much fun seeing them deal with Archer's secret identity and how much Brynn did or didn't know.
The mystery of who knew Archer’s secret and who was impersonating him and committing violent crimes kept me guessing throughout the book. I suspected a number of the characters at one point or another, but never actually the one who ended up being the culprit. The authors did a wonderful job at concealing who the impostor was and I enjoyed how they wrapped up that storyline. I will say this book went longer than I expected it to after the impostor was unmasked and I kept expecting the story to end much sooner than it actually did.
Overall, My Rogue, My Ruin was a very enjoyable read and I absolutely loved these characters. I’m excited to get to the sequel, My Darling, My Disaster, soon as I was quite intrigued by Lana’s character and am eager to find out more about her.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
The Marquess of Hawksfield, Archer Croft, despises the over-indulgence of his peers in the ton. Due to his hatred, he has become the Masked Marauder, who waylays unsuspecting carriages to relieve the passengers of their riches in order to give back to the less fortunate. On one such occasion, Lady Briannon Findlay and her family are stopped by the Marauder and forced to give up their possessions. Brynn is reluctant to give up a necklace gifted to her by her grandmother and engages in a battle of wills with the thief. Despite knowing better, Brynn feels an attraction to this thief and so begins the adventure Brynn has longed for all her life.
Brynn is by far my favorite character in this book. She's strong-willed, intelligent and fights for what she wants in life. Despite an illness that has plagued her for her entire life, Brynn doesn't let anything stop her from living life to the fullest. She excels at activities traditionally reserved for men, such as fencing and shooting, and has a wonderful outlook on life. She also has the a great sense of humor. Archer is a much more reserved and serious individual than Brynn. After losing his mother in a tragic accident, he's set himself on a path to give back to those less fortunate as that was one of his mother's passions. Archer does not believe in love and happily ever after due to the way his father leads his life.
I enjoyed the relationship between Archer and Brynn immensely. Their first meeting, with Archer as himself, went horribly and I wondered at how the authors would turn things around. I enjoyed the banter that developed between these two and I loved when they got to be alone and let their true selves come out. Also, the physical attraction between these two was off the charts and I very much enjoyed watching them act on that attraction. It was also so much fun seeing them deal with Archer's secret identity and how much Brynn did or didn't know.
The mystery of who knew Archer’s secret and who was impersonating him and committing violent crimes kept me guessing throughout the book. I suspected a number of the characters at one point or another, but never actually the one who ended up being the culprit. The authors did a wonderful job at concealing who the impostor was and I enjoyed how they wrapped up that storyline. I will say this book went longer than I expected it to after the impostor was unmasked and I kept expecting the story to end much sooner than it actually did.
Overall, My Rogue, My Ruin was a very enjoyable read and I absolutely loved these characters. I’m excited to get to the sequel, My Darling, My Disaster, soon as I was quite intrigued by Lana’s character and am eager to find out more about her.
**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
July 4, 2021
Very nice cover
Lady Briannon and Lord Archer
Really a well written book. Good couple, interesting side characters.
But the killer didn't make any sense to me. As a Bastard the killer would be left alone with no means of support and no way to make a living. I took 1 star 🌟 off for that.
Lady Briannon and Lord Archer
Really a well written book. Good couple, interesting side characters.
But the killer didn't make any sense to me. As a Bastard the killer would be left alone with no means of support and no way to make a living. I took 1 star 🌟 off for that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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February 9, 2023
Could not get into this. Which is surprising cause the story should be fun and adventurous, but just bland writing. Sorry but skip it.
December 31, 2022
I am left awestruck!
Thank you ladies.
Thank you ladies.
July 6, 2023
good till the real villain was revealed, then I was annoyed and resentful of all the prior storyline repetition. But story was still interesting with a gothic mystery feel at times
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