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The Beaucroft Girls #1
Ruse & Romance
Unjustly labeled a flirt, Kitty Beaucroft is in need of a fiancé. Lord Philip Butler’s father wants him to settle down before he can become a landowner. With no intention of following through, Kitty and Philip enter into a temporary engagement as a means to an end. Unfortunately, someone knows the truth and is determined to expose them. Will the ruse turn into a romance before it’s too late?
154 pages, ebook
First published September 8, 2014
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738 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
April 22, 2016
Another Kindle freebie from my historical romance binge the other night. Here we have an engagement of convenience between Kitty and Philip. Kitty was one of the shining stars of the London season, but she's rejected a few too many suitors -- including one who turns out to have a strong vindictive streak -- and is now labeled a heartless flirt and is getting the cold shoulder from society. Philip is a second son who's trying to buy a property from his father and is being forced to prove he's respectable, which in this case means get serious about marriage and starting a family. The engagement of convenience turns into a marriage, because of reasons, but both Phillip and Kitty start to think getting married is actually a good idea. Until things go wrong.
It's a fluffy, simplistic, predictable tale, chock-full of the typical tropes and cardboard characters. I didn't get irritated enough to DNF it, but there's nothing really compelling about this story.
Winner of my "Marshmallows are Less Fluffy" Award of the week.
It's a fluffy, simplistic, predictable tale, chock-full of the typical tropes and cardboard characters. I didn't get irritated enough to DNF it, but there's nothing really compelling about this story.
Winner of my "Marshmallows are Less Fluffy" Award of the week.
October 17, 2016
This book is a very sweet , and clean love story. Philip is a second son, and he needs a wife in order for his father to sell him the property, he has wanted for a while. Kitty, is to pretty, for her own good. She has had two seasons and still cannot find an honorable, and titled gentleman, she is attracted to. Her latest refusal has labeled her a flirt, in the eyes of the ton. Philip comes to her rescue , at a ball, and they both concoct a story, to avoid any scandal. This is a well used plot, but it was done very well. I really enjoyed the flirty conversation, and all the characters. The book ended to soon, and I hope in book two we find out more about Kitty, and Philip and their new estate. This basic story would be so easy to expand.
September 23, 2019
Audible book. I have really started enjoying audible books immensely and this story by Suzanne G Rogers is a prime example of what makes this medium so spectacular! The narrator Helen Taylor was brilliant in bringing the characters alive with her voices and subtle changes of emotions and language. I adored Philip and Kitty. She just wanted to marry for love and her family was pressuring her to just get married. She has been labeled a flirt and the last suitor she turned down is spreading rumors about her and she gets the cut from society.
Philip is a second son who trying to buy a property from his father so he can have something of his own and make it a success. But is father will only do the deal if he shows he is ready to settle down and marry so he needs to find a lady pronto.
When the man she spurned starts trouble, Philip steps in to save Kitty and one thing leads to another and they start a ruse of being engaged. That "ruse" creates all king of havoc and it seems they may be getting wed for real! Loved, Loved, Loved this story and could not wait for the second Beaucroft sister's story!
Philip is a second son who trying to buy a property from his father so he can have something of his own and make it a success. But is father will only do the deal if he shows he is ready to settle down and marry so he needs to find a lady pronto.
When the man she spurned starts trouble, Philip steps in to save Kitty and one thing leads to another and they start a ruse of being engaged. That "ruse" creates all king of havoc and it seems they may be getting wed for real! Loved, Loved, Loved this story and could not wait for the second Beaucroft sister's story!
September 16, 2014
Constance "Kitty" Beaucroft has had 2 seasons and 5 proposals with titles and fortunes. She has turned them all down and has earned the label "flirt." She has one ball left she can attend before she is shipped off to her grandma's house so her younger sister can enjoy the rest of the season untainted by her older sister's reputation as a flirt.
Philip Butler is a second son who champions long shots, ladies and dark horses. He wants to buy one of his father's properties, but his father won't even consider it until he attends a ball in London given by his cousin (his father has hopes that he will marry one day, even though he has no plans to).
He's given up on society. Society has given up on her. One fateful night brings them together. One vengeful suitor who is more interested in revenge than apologies will force them into a "ruse" that will solve one set of problems while creating an entirely different set of problems.
Content: Clean, no swearing.
Philip Butler is a second son who champions long shots, ladies and dark horses. He wants to buy one of his father's properties, but his father won't even consider it until he attends a ball in London given by his cousin (his father has hopes that he will marry one day, even though he has no plans to).
He's given up on society. Society has given up on her. One fateful night brings them together. One vengeful suitor who is more interested in revenge than apologies will force them into a "ruse" that will solve one set of problems while creating an entirely different set of problems.
Content: Clean, no swearing.
November 24, 2015
Cute read. Not amazing but entertaining enough.
Moral Note: Some talk of scandal, and a pregnancy out of marriage. An attempted rape, no details. Fade to black wedding night.
Moral Note: Some talk of scandal, and a pregnancy out of marriage. An attempted rape, no details. Fade to black wedding night.
September 15, 2014
After rejecting one too many suitors, Kitty Beaufort, London's beauty of the season, is in danger of a ruined reputation in her exclusive social circle. Furious, her father demands that she try to repair the damage she has done, and demands that she work her charms to snare Lord Gryphon, the latest gentleman to be sent packing by the now notorious society flirt. But it is too late to win back his interest, and Kitty is spurned by all the young men at the next ball.
That is except for Lord Phillip Butler, a second son with no inheritance, who wants to become a landowner by purchasing some of his father's estate. Lord Phillip takes pity on Kitty, and spends the night dancing with her, and even rescues her from the lecherous Gryphon. Soon, Kitty and Phillip devise a plan to restore her standing in society, and also give Phillip the means to persuade his father to sell him land.
Kitty and Phillip announce a sudden (and phony) engagement, enjoying their ruse. Before long, someone is determined to expose their deception, and the pair is again in danger of losing all they care for -- a place in society, and property. How can their romantic ruse give them their cake, and let the couple eat it, too?
That is except for Lord Phillip Butler, a second son with no inheritance, who wants to become a landowner by purchasing some of his father's estate. Lord Phillip takes pity on Kitty, and spends the night dancing with her, and even rescues her from the lecherous Gryphon. Soon, Kitty and Phillip devise a plan to restore her standing in society, and also give Phillip the means to persuade his father to sell him land.
Kitty and Phillip announce a sudden (and phony) engagement, enjoying their ruse. Before long, someone is determined to expose their deception, and the pair is again in danger of losing all they care for -- a place in society, and property. How can their romantic ruse give them their cake, and let the couple eat it, too?
June 23, 2021
Miss Kitty Beaucroft has turned away every suitor who has come along. Much to her father’s dismay, she’s also gained a reputation as a flirt.
As the second son, Lord Phillip Butler has no other prospects, but his father is quite reluctant to hand over a property that Phillip’s long set his heart on owning. His father won’t sell it to him for any sum—unless he settles down.
When Phillip saves Kitty when a rejected suitor tries to take his revenge, the hero and heroine come to an agreement of mutual benefit for both of them and announce their engagement—never mind they really don’t know one another. Will they be found out, or will their romance bloom out of their ruse? Fans of sweet and funny romances, you’ll have to read the delightful Ruse and Romance to find out. As ever, I enjoyed S.G. Rogers' book and hope to see Kitty and Phillip again. Am looking forward to the next in the series.
As the second son, Lord Phillip Butler has no other prospects, but his father is quite reluctant to hand over a property that Phillip’s long set his heart on owning. His father won’t sell it to him for any sum—unless he settles down.
When Phillip saves Kitty when a rejected suitor tries to take his revenge, the hero and heroine come to an agreement of mutual benefit for both of them and announce their engagement—never mind they really don’t know one another. Will they be found out, or will their romance bloom out of their ruse? Fans of sweet and funny romances, you’ll have to read the delightful Ruse and Romance to find out. As ever, I enjoyed S.G. Rogers' book and hope to see Kitty and Phillip again. Am looking forward to the next in the series.
February 8, 2016
Lovely story
I really enjoyed this book. The ruses and the romance were wonderful. I loved that Kitty. She knew what she wanted and was determined to not settle. Phillip was a wonderful character too. He was sincere and such a compassionate person. There were mistakes made that made the happy ending seem impossible but I certainly wanted them to work them out.
So many people working to break them apart, it was a very intricate story. I loved it.
I really enjoyed this book. The ruses and the romance were wonderful. I loved that Kitty. She knew what she wanted and was determined to not settle. Phillip was a wonderful character too. He was sincere and such a compassionate person. There were mistakes made that made the happy ending seem impossible but I certainly wanted them to work them out.
So many people working to break them apart, it was a very intricate story. I loved it.
October 21, 2014
I really enjoyed this and read it quickly. The story piqued my interest from the start and I was dying to know the result of the misunderstandings and Victorian-style "scandals". The fake engagement was really fun. If you enjoy sweet, clean historical romance, you'll love this one.
September 15, 2014
A sweet novella with wonderful characters, an interesting "ruse" and the consequences that follow - Ms. Rogers packs a lot in this historical romance!
October 23, 2016
Predictable fluff that promised more than it delivered. The ending was rushed and too many questions left unanswered.
August 5, 2022
Kitty Beaucroft needs a fiancé to avoid being labeled a flirt who has rejected her suitors’ proposals. Lord Philip Butler’s father will consider his offer to buy a piece of property only after he’s settled down. Realizing they can help each other, Kitty and Philip enter into a fake engagement. Unfortunately, the ruse backfires and marriage looms in their near future. Do they really want to end their arrangement, or would both of them like the betrothal to become real? This pleasant historical romance will keep you entertained.
May 10, 2020
Delightful regency tale
I really love this book! Ruse and Romance is a clean historical romance set in 1845 in England. It's a refreshing story, beautifully written with engaging characters. And the story is complete with a beautiful HEA. Looking forward to listening the next book (Juliet's story) in the series.
I really love this book! Ruse and Romance is a clean historical romance set in 1845 in England. It's a refreshing story, beautifully written with engaging characters. And the story is complete with a beautiful HEA. Looking forward to listening the next book (Juliet's story) in the series.
November 15, 2017
A lovely, light read.
November 22, 2018
Good
I found this a good book. I liked both the main characters and the adventures they got into. They seemed to have good chemistry between them.
I found this a good book. I liked both the main characters and the adventures they got into. They seemed to have good chemistry between them.
October 22, 2014
My ONLY complaint is that Ruse and Romance left me craving more. This is a shorter story and it managed to pull me in from the very beginning and kept me in until the very last page. I even took it with me in the car and read while sitting in the drive thru at the bank. S.G. Rogers was able to write a story that in just a few pages, the characters were well developed and likeable (well most of them were likable), the plot was well developed and engaging, and the reader was thoroughly entertained.
The story of Kitty and Philip is heart tugging sweet. While they are not instantly in love, the immediate attraction is obvious. It was fun to watch them circle each other and try to figure out what was romance and what was the ruse part of their relationship. I do not fault Kitty for how she felt, she is young and naïve. Philip was great. I loved the scenes when Kitty arrives at his country estate and he reacts to her arrival.
Ruse and Romance is a short story that I am happy to recommend.
The story of Kitty and Philip is heart tugging sweet. While they are not instantly in love, the immediate attraction is obvious. It was fun to watch them circle each other and try to figure out what was romance and what was the ruse part of their relationship. I do not fault Kitty for how she felt, she is young and naïve. Philip was great. I loved the scenes when Kitty arrives at his country estate and he reacts to her arrival.
Ruse and Romance is a short story that I am happy to recommend.
October 7, 2014
I am a huge fan of S. G. Rogers’ fantasy, and now I am a true fan of her romance. Ruse and Romance is everything a reader could want in a historical romance - a clear picture of the setting, characters to love, villains to hate, and a storyline that makes one eagerly turning the page to see what happens next. There is more than one ruse in this story, and I enjoyed seeing them play out.
Kitty is a lovely heroine, with just the right amount of spirit. Although at times she seems frivolous, she does have a heart, and she matures a lot during the story. She is a great match for Phillip, who is a refreshing change from the usual stodgy nobleman. He’s a second son, so he has to prove himself, and he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty - or bloody, if necessary. Their story made for a perfect “armchair getaway” on a cold evening!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kitty is a lovely heroine, with just the right amount of spirit. Although at times she seems frivolous, she does have a heart, and she matures a lot during the story. She is a great match for Phillip, who is a refreshing change from the usual stodgy nobleman. He’s a second son, so he has to prove himself, and he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty - or bloody, if necessary. Their story made for a perfect “armchair getaway” on a cold evening!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2016
Good l---. Why the torture? harhar
So that's why this was free, not even worth a dollar. The pacing is horrible, the descriptions are so plain, and the plot is so cliched. In general, the writing's crap--or to sugarcoat it, it is soooo bland. I didn't even finish it because of how pretentious the characters are.
Why'd I picked this up then if I have nothing good to say about it?
I don't know! It's probably 'cause it's free, again! Also, I'm being adventurous this weekend, perhaps? Or that maybe, I just want a new taste after going all Sherlock mode most of the year-round? Or that I just want to add a new book so I could catch up with the book challenge I set this year? Anyway, I really have to go away from titles that are too creative like this one.
So that's why this was free, not even worth a dollar. The pacing is horrible, the descriptions are so plain, and the plot is so cliched. In general, the writing's crap--or to sugarcoat it, it is soooo bland. I didn't even finish it because of how pretentious the characters are.
Why'd I picked this up then if I have nothing good to say about it?
I don't know! It's probably 'cause it's free, again! Also, I'm being adventurous this weekend, perhaps? Or that maybe, I just want a new taste after going all Sherlock mode most of the year-round? Or that I just want to add a new book so I could catch up with the book challenge I set this year? Anyway, I really have to go away from titles that are too creative like this one.
October 28, 2014
Rogers never disappoints! Once again she has written a wonderful regency romance and this one has little twists and turns I didn't see coming! I loved Kitty's character, that she was not just beautiful on the outside but on the inside as well. That is certainly rare for the time period! There is so much I want to say but can't because it will spoil the book, so just buy it already and read it!!! If you are a regency fan, cozy up in your favorite reading spot because you will not stop until you have finished this book!
October 16, 2014
A fun dip into the life of a second son and no prospects. Can virtue and honor triumph? Can a spoiled flirt find what she's been searching for in time? If I told you, it would spoil everything!
October 26, 2014
A decent rough draft of a story, but in no way an actual book.
January 15, 2015
This had a strange ending. What happened the day after... a month after? Did Prudence's father come around? I have so much questions about this, I wanted at least an Epilogue of some sorts.
November 23, 2015
When she turned down a proposal the man got vindictive and decided to ruin her. Our hero comes to her rescue and things just keep getting worse.
January 22, 2016
It was really 4 1/2 stars. I enjoyed this book a lot and finished it in one day. There were lots of elements that made me want to keep reading. It was very busy but not to hard to follow.
January 3, 2019
OVERVIEW OF STORY: A jilted suitor of Kitty's decides to destroy her reputation. To do this he says he has caught her, and Philip in a compromising position. To save face and the rest of Kitty’s younger sister, Juliet’s first season they concoct a ruse. They put forth that they took a moment to privately celebrate their engagement. When their farce comes to light, they find love developed amidst their pretend. After the wedding Kitty believes it was Philip who outed them when she finds a deed that stipulates, they must marry.
OPINION OF BOOK: Ruse and Romance has a good plot and storyline. Kitty is an enchanting leading lady. With a string of refusals behind her, she claims she isn't afraid to get married. She doesn't know exactly what she wants in a husband. But she does know she hasn't found the one yet. Philip is the endearing rouge-ish male heartthrob. Having the misfortune of being born the younger sibling he has nothing to offer a future spouse. A past prospective missus informed him he was aiming above his station. Now he is out to earn his own wealth, so he won't feel less than. The cast of supporting characters was a lively bunch that added flavor and drama of their own. There was a secret elopement to Scotland and an out of wedlock pregnancy. Thankfully, the secondaries didn’t take over or detract from the main storyline.
OPINION OF WRITING: This book was well written. The vocabulary used for this book was proper for setting the tone for the period in history it was set in. The verbiage was not such that it was impossible to understand. The tempo and timing were smooth and fluid, making the story flow along very nicely. I never got lost or confused about who was talking or where they were or what they were talking about.
OPINION OF NARRATION: The narrator did a wonderful job with this piece. She was easy to understand and her voice was pleasant to listen to. Her voice as Kitty was spot on. The changes in tone and cadence with other characters made it easy to follow along. With each voice, I could almost see who was talking.
OPINION OF BOOK: Ruse and Romance has a good plot and storyline. Kitty is an enchanting leading lady. With a string of refusals behind her, she claims she isn't afraid to get married. She doesn't know exactly what she wants in a husband. But she does know she hasn't found the one yet. Philip is the endearing rouge-ish male heartthrob. Having the misfortune of being born the younger sibling he has nothing to offer a future spouse. A past prospective missus informed him he was aiming above his station. Now he is out to earn his own wealth, so he won't feel less than. The cast of supporting characters was a lively bunch that added flavor and drama of their own. There was a secret elopement to Scotland and an out of wedlock pregnancy. Thankfully, the secondaries didn’t take over or detract from the main storyline.
OPINION OF WRITING: This book was well written. The vocabulary used for this book was proper for setting the tone for the period in history it was set in. The verbiage was not such that it was impossible to understand. The tempo and timing were smooth and fluid, making the story flow along very nicely. I never got lost or confused about who was talking or where they were or what they were talking about.
OPINION OF NARRATION: The narrator did a wonderful job with this piece. She was easy to understand and her voice was pleasant to listen to. Her voice as Kitty was spot on. The changes in tone and cadence with other characters made it easy to follow along. With each voice, I could almost see who was talking.
April 7, 2018
I really enjoy historical romance, it's one of the sub genres I will go to that cleanses my thoughts. This one is light and fun, and the characters easy to like. Kitty is being pushed into getting married by her family, but the suitors being set for her are not to her liking. Phillip is trying to find his way, he is the second in line in his family and is always the one getting in trouble. When these two bump into each other, it is evident that there is chemistry. But being from different statuses, they are not meant to be together. The ruse they set up is sure to be successful...or is it? Give this a listen, you are sure to love Phillip, be frustrated at times with Kitty and love to hate her suitors!
Suzanne G Rogers has written a wonderful love story, bringing two unlikely people together. It’s my first book by her, and with its throughly enjoyable plot it will not be my last. Narrated by the very talented Helen Taylor, she brought this cast of characters to life each with a definite voice and personality.
August 11, 2019
RUSE & ROMANCE
The Beaucroft Girls, Book One
SUZANNE G. ROGERS
Review by Roy Murry, Author
Kitty and Juliet are the Beaucroft girls who live in England during the mid-1800s. I won't tell you who is the prettiest because it is part of the story, but I will say to you Kitty is the oldest, and during the times and in proper society, she should be the first to marry an eligible wealth titled bachelor.
The 'Season' has begun in London, and their wealthy parents are expecting one of the girls to woo a man of the Lordly class. Let the games begin, and they do.
A scandalous event Kitty between and a Lord presents a socially unacceptable result. To save Kitty's status, another Lord involved, and her parents contrive The Ruse, which leads into a Romance, that is not proper enough for Kitty's parents.
Then there are twist and turns after The Ruse is in place, which makes for enjoyable reading for the romantic in you. The reader of this pleasant novel will keep waiting for the end, but this is book one, and the hook catches - the reader will want more of The Beaucroft Girls.
The prose and background are in the 1800s English but not overwhelming. The novel is a quick, enjoyable read.
The Beaucroft Girls, Book One
SUZANNE G. ROGERS
Review by Roy Murry, Author
Kitty and Juliet are the Beaucroft girls who live in England during the mid-1800s. I won't tell you who is the prettiest because it is part of the story, but I will say to you Kitty is the oldest, and during the times and in proper society, she should be the first to marry an eligible wealth titled bachelor.
The 'Season' has begun in London, and their wealthy parents are expecting one of the girls to woo a man of the Lordly class. Let the games begin, and they do.
A scandalous event Kitty between and a Lord presents a socially unacceptable result. To save Kitty's status, another Lord involved, and her parents contrive The Ruse, which leads into a Romance, that is not proper enough for Kitty's parents.
Then there are twist and turns after The Ruse is in place, which makes for enjoyable reading for the romantic in you. The reader of this pleasant novel will keep waiting for the end, but this is book one, and the hook catches - the reader will want more of The Beaucroft Girls.
The prose and background are in the 1800s English but not overwhelming. The novel is a quick, enjoyable read.
August 9, 2019
A most unlikely couple
Lord Philip Butler is an avowed bachelor. He is the second son of a marquess with no property of his own.
Lady Constance Beaucroft is considered the most beautiful debutante and would never consider marrying beneath her. She also wants to marry for love and has refused five offers to date. The last offer was from Lord Gryphon, a most unpleasant man.
Lord Gryphon decided to take his revenge on her and set about blackening her reputation. Lord Philip stepped in to the rescue and, before they knew it, they were engaged.
This is a nice little story showing how gossip and innuendo can make or break a person (or couple!) and why you should never accept things at face value.
Suitable for all ages.
Lord Philip Butler is an avowed bachelor. He is the second son of a marquess with no property of his own.
Lady Constance Beaucroft is considered the most beautiful debutante and would never consider marrying beneath her. She also wants to marry for love and has refused five offers to date. The last offer was from Lord Gryphon, a most unpleasant man.
Lord Gryphon decided to take his revenge on her and set about blackening her reputation. Lord Philip stepped in to the rescue and, before they knew it, they were engaged.
This is a nice little story showing how gossip and innuendo can make or break a person (or couple!) and why you should never accept things at face value.
Suitable for all ages.
August 21, 2017
Irresistible story
It should be titled "My Dear Lord Phillips". I can see this book make for a movie. It reminds me with movies like Love Actually, Bridget Jones', My Best Friend's Wedding, is sweet and yet complicated, funny and yet very touching, it has all elements even little conversations of passing characters are delightful, witty and refreshingly funny. Put a smile on my face from the beginning to the end.
The only cons is just too short (I prefer my books over 300 kindle pages). Clean story, your heart will warm instantly. Def. will add SGR on my author to read list.
It should be titled "My Dear Lord Phillips". I can see this book make for a movie. It reminds me with movies like Love Actually, Bridget Jones', My Best Friend's Wedding, is sweet and yet complicated, funny and yet very touching, it has all elements even little conversations of passing characters are delightful, witty and refreshingly funny. Put a smile on my face from the beginning to the end.
The only cons is just too short (I prefer my books over 300 kindle pages). Clean story, your heart will warm instantly. Def. will add SGR on my author to read list.
December 21, 2018
Time may run out before the romance even begins. Regrettably, somebody recognized the reality and is resolute to shine a light on goings-ons. Unfairly branded a seducer, Kitty Beaucroft was in desperate need of a fiancé. Lord Philip Butler’s dad desired him to settle down before he turned into a landlord. This tale will take you back to an olden day era full of charisma and intrigue. The depiction of times and aristocratic people drew me in as well as the lovely clean sophisticated writing style of author Suzanne G. Rogers. The storyline moves flawlessly through conspiracy, suspense, drama and romance. It is undeniably charming as well as generous in word pictures.
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