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The Rake Review #1
Rejeitado em Janeiro
Não. Absolutamente não. Persephone Cuthbert prefere andar sobre brasas a dizer uma única palavra ao homem que lhe partiu o coração – quanto mais ajudá-lo.
Quem escreve Libertinos Magazine pode tê-lo declarado o homem mais casável de Londres, mas Persephone sabe a verdade. Edward Johns é o canalha frio que partiu seu coração. E não permitirá que ele a engane ou engane às damas desavisadas de Londres.
Mas o trabalho da vida de Persephone é ajudar as pessoas. Como ela pode recusar quando a vida de um homem está em perigo?
Dez anos atrás, Edward Johns abandonou o amor da sua vida por causa do dever familiar. Ele endureceu o coração e não tem nenhum desejo de se casar — pretende deixar tudo isso para o seu irmão mais novo, Alfred. Até que o referido esbanjador desaparece sem deixar rasto.
Naturalmente, a única mulher em Londres que pode ajudá-lo é o anjo que assombra seus sonhos há uma década. Mas a família sempre vem em primeiro lugar. Para salvar seu irmão, Edward manterá as mãos longe – na maior parte do tempo – e o coração trancado a sete chaves — não importa o quanto seu anjo tenha se tornado encantadora.
Rejeitado em janeiro é o primeiro livro da série de vários autores, Libertinos Magazine. Este romance da Regência, cheio de sensualidade, segundas chances e cortejos falsos, vai mantê-lo grudado nas páginas e suando de emoção – tenha um leque à mão!
Quem escreve Libertinos Magazine pode tê-lo declarado o homem mais casável de Londres, mas Persephone sabe a verdade. Edward Johns é o canalha frio que partiu seu coração. E não permitirá que ele a engane ou engane às damas desavisadas de Londres.
Mas o trabalho da vida de Persephone é ajudar as pessoas. Como ela pode recusar quando a vida de um homem está em perigo?
Dez anos atrás, Edward Johns abandonou o amor da sua vida por causa do dever familiar. Ele endureceu o coração e não tem nenhum desejo de se casar — pretende deixar tudo isso para o seu irmão mais novo, Alfred. Até que o referido esbanjador desaparece sem deixar rasto.
Naturalmente, a única mulher em Londres que pode ajudá-lo é o anjo que assombra seus sonhos há uma década. Mas a família sempre vem em primeiro lugar. Para salvar seu irmão, Edward manterá as mãos longe – na maior parte do tempo – e o coração trancado a sete chaves — não importa o quanto seu anjo tenha se tornado encantadora.
Rejeitado em janeiro é o primeiro livro da série de vários autores, Libertinos Magazine. Este romance da Regência, cheio de sensualidade, segundas chances e cortejos falsos, vai mantê-lo grudado nas páginas e suando de emoção – tenha um leque à mão!
209 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2026
440 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Cara Maxwell
25 books127 followersBringing fresh perspective and punch to the genre readers already know and love, Cara Maxwell is dedicated to writing spirited heroines and irresistible rogues who you will root for every time. A lifetime reader of romance, Cara put pen to paper (or rather, fingers to keyboard) in 2019 and published her first book. She hasn’t slowed down from there.
Cara is an avid traveler. As she explores new places, she imagines her characters walking hand-in-hand down a cobblestone path or sharing a passionate kiss in a secluded alcove. Cara is living out her own happily ever after in Seattle, Washington, where she resides with her husband, daughter, and two cats, RoseArt and Etch-o-Sketch.
Cara is an avid traveler. As she explores new places, she imagines her characters walking hand-in-hand down a cobblestone path or sharing a passionate kiss in a secluded alcove. Cara is living out her own happily ever after in Seattle, Washington, where she resides with her husband, daughter, and two cats, RoseArt and Etch-o-Sketch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
January 12, 2024
So there are a few authors I read that I call my “go to” authors. "Go-to" is when I have read all my "regular" authors new releases and looking for more to read until the next group of new releases come out. Cara Maxwell is one of those authors. Nothing against not calling her one of my “regular authors” because I really enjoy her books and always get a good read. I just picked up her books way later than some of the other authors I read. This is my 12th book by Cara Maxwell and I just started reading her in Aug, 2022. I enjoy her writing and her stories. This is a new series with 11 other authors that will write about a Rake a month.
I really liked Persephone and Edward and their story. It was such a different read from my usual tons book and I really enjoyed it. I like that no matter what, through years apart and prejudices they were steadfast with their feelings. I don't think I'm giving anything away as every single book I read is a HEA story. Can't wait to reach each Rake's monthly story.
I really liked Persephone and Edward and their story. It was such a different read from my usual tons book and I really enjoyed it. I like that no matter what, through years apart and prejudices they were steadfast with their feelings. I don't think I'm giving anything away as every single book I read is a HEA story. Can't wait to reach each Rake's monthly story.
May 4, 2024
CW:
My reading slump continues, so I was really surprised I managed to read this one almost in one sitting.
But, what a gorgeous and deliciously hot book it was!
I’m planning to read the whole Rake Review series, and its first installment only makes me more excited for it.
Jilted in January was a beautiful ‘second chance’ romance, with such a likable and well developed characters.
I loved both Edward and Persephone.
The chemistry between them was electric and smoldering hot; each scene they shared sparkled with tension and deep longing. Oh, and the scenes in the warehouse? So sexy!
Edward was broody and almost cold, but underneath his carefully constructed public persona he was passionate and tortured man. I loved how he immediately came to life every time he was even near Persephone. He almost couldn’t help himself to respond to her banter, to her presence alone.
No surprise here, as she was such a fun and clever heroine – I loved her strength and the way she was a formidable partner for Edward. Her being the Lady Fixer was a charming subplot and
I really enjoyed scenes when she “worked” the ton to gather information.
The social commentary about emigrants and the difficulties they faced living in the 19th century London was so well intertwined with the main story - it never felt imposing on the romance, but so nicely added to Edward’s motivation and actions.
Jilted in January was such a gorgeous surprise! It was wonderfully romantic, emotional, charming and clever; I loved every page. Highly recommend!
5/5 stars
My reading slump continues, so I was really surprised I managed to read this one almost in one sitting.
But, what a gorgeous and deliciously hot book it was!
I’m planning to read the whole Rake Review series, and its first installment only makes me more excited for it.
Jilted in January was a beautiful ‘second chance’ romance, with such a likable and well developed characters.
I loved both Edward and Persephone.
The chemistry between them was electric and smoldering hot; each scene they shared sparkled with tension and deep longing. Oh, and the scenes in the warehouse? So sexy!
Edward was broody and almost cold, but underneath his carefully constructed public persona he was passionate and tortured man. I loved how he immediately came to life every time he was even near Persephone. He almost couldn’t help himself to respond to her banter, to her presence alone.
No surprise here, as she was such a fun and clever heroine – I loved her strength and the way she was a formidable partner for Edward. Her being the Lady Fixer was a charming subplot and
I really enjoyed scenes when she “worked” the ton to gather information.
The social commentary about emigrants and the difficulties they faced living in the 19th century London was so well intertwined with the main story - it never felt imposing on the romance, but so nicely added to Edward’s motivation and actions.
Jilted in January was such a gorgeous surprise! It was wonderfully romantic, emotional, charming and clever; I loved every page. Highly recommend!
5/5 stars
January 2, 2024
It's been a while since I've read a historical romance and, to be fair, I really enjoyed the Persephone and Edward story, because it was very light and romantic.
Their story was a second chance romance. 10 years ago they were supposed to be married, but Edward broke Persephone's heart by leaving her. To nurture her wounds, she goes to America. Years later, she comes back to London for a new season, being "The Lady Fixer" - a woman that helps people find certain things.
Suddenly, Edward needs the help of "The Fixer", not knowing that she is Persephone. From then on, their past romance starts blooming again.
I have to admit that I was happy that Persephone almost refused to help him, because even after all those years she was still hurt and angry. But she loved his brother as her own and she still loved Edward deeply. From the first moment he met her again, Edward felt that his love for her never stopped. He did lie a little bit, so he could have the chance to be with her and make her fall in love with him again. A bold move on his point, but one that won her heart in the end. To be honest, Edward still needed a little push from his mother, because he still had prejudice about being with Persephone. They were deeply bonded in his mind and he thought that her being with him would not be taken lightly by London society.
For me, Persephone and Edward were meant to be, and they deserved to finally be happy together.
Overall, I really enjoyed "Jilted in January" and I can't wait to read the other books from "The Rake Review" series.
***I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.***
Their story was a second chance romance. 10 years ago they were supposed to be married, but Edward broke Persephone's heart by leaving her. To nurture her wounds, she goes to America. Years later, she comes back to London for a new season, being "The Lady Fixer" - a woman that helps people find certain things.
Suddenly, Edward needs the help of "The Fixer", not knowing that she is Persephone. From then on, their past romance starts blooming again.
I have to admit that I was happy that Persephone almost refused to help him, because even after all those years she was still hurt and angry. But she loved his brother as her own and she still loved Edward deeply. From the first moment he met her again, Edward felt that his love for her never stopped. He did lie a little bit, so he could have the chance to be with her and make her fall in love with him again. A bold move on his point, but one that won her heart in the end. To be honest, Edward still needed a little push from his mother, because he still had prejudice about being with Persephone. They were deeply bonded in his mind and he thought that her being with him would not be taken lightly by London society.
For me, Persephone and Edward were meant to be, and they deserved to finally be happy together.
Overall, I really enjoyed "Jilted in January" and I can't wait to read the other books from "The Rake Review" series.
***I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.***
January 1, 2024
"Are you afraid that if I say I love you, that I have always loved you, that I will love you until the day I die... are you afraid you will want want to say it back? Because I do. And I have. And I will."
5 stars!
This book was such a fantastic way to end my 2023 reading year! I cannot believe that this was my first book by Cara Maxwell, but I can say that it will definitely not be my last as I enjoyed her writing so much. Edward and Persephone have loved each other forever, but Edward's unconventional background prevented him from following his heart and marrying his love. They meet again ten years later when Edward discovers that his lovely Persephone is secretly the Lady Fixer, the one person who can help him find his wayward brother. As they spend increasingly more and more time together, both Edward and Persephone are forced to acknowledge their past feelings if they can ever hope to have a future together.
The love story between Edward and Persephone was beautiful yet heartbreaking. I don't think I've ever read a historical romance where racial discrimination played such a central part to the story and romance, but I think Cara Maxwell executed it brilliantly. My heart broke for Edward and his struggle between his love for Persephone and his determination to protect her from the discrimination he faces on a daily basis. The banter and chemistry between them was top-tier and sooo steamy; neither could deny the pull they felt towards each other, and their clandestine meetings seriously fogged up my kindle. I am so excited to continue this series by so many amazing HR authors🖤
Happy New Year, bookish friends🥂
Tropes: secondchance romance, hate-to-love-you, self-made hero, jilted heroine, 'it's always been you' vibes, secret identity, fake relationship, 'you deserve better than me' vibes, mystery-to-solve, racial discrimination, class difference, interracial relationship, slow burn, STEAMY🔥
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
February 17, 2026
Oh, this was an unexpected gem! ✨️
"Here I am, and here I will stay,” she said, planting her hand on the tabletop. “Unless you plan on trussing me up like a chicken and returning me to Mayfair.”
Stubborn, willful, beautiful woman. “That is precisely what I want to do.”
“Since that is out of the question, we ought to focus our energy on the more relevant task at hand.”
He wanted to spank her, kiss her, and then kill her. In that order.
I literally had zero expectations going in, haven't even read the summary really. Even though this is a short story, I could understand and, most importantly, feel the regret and longing both Edward and Persephone had toward one another - I could feel those ten years of seperation between them, could believe how that passage of time instantly vanished when they saw each other again. It was wonderful. They are both such kind and gentle souls, I really enjoyed them as characters ☺️
The only reason why this isn't a five stars book is that little voice in my head that keeps saying how this would've been even better and angstier and just MORE of it was a proper length novel 🤷🏻♀️
special mention to edward's mom, she reminds of my dad so so much! especially when she said that the world keeps changing and how we should not let it, and life, make us love hard 🥺
-> "The world will do as it wishes. It is a different world now than it was when I first arrived in this country. There was no Limehouse, no place I could walk on the street and feel safe.” Which explained why once Limehouse did grow up, it had become her safe haven. Perhaps it was not that she felt she couldn’t leave Limehouse; but rather, she simply did not want to.
“It will undoubtedly change by the time you counsel your own children,” she continued. A soft sigh. “Do not let life make your love hard.”
-> "You cannot know what Persephone will choose unless you let her make the choice. You decided for her all those years ago. She is a woman grown, Edward. She knows the way of the world. Give her the respect of making her own choice, choosing her own path. Choosing you.”
“Mā,” Edward said, his voice as small as a child’s.
The hard line of her mouth did not soften. But her dark, wise eyes did. “What are you really afraid of, Edward?”
“That someday, she will realize her mistake."
"Here I am, and here I will stay,” she said, planting her hand on the tabletop. “Unless you plan on trussing me up like a chicken and returning me to Mayfair.”
Stubborn, willful, beautiful woman. “That is precisely what I want to do.”
“Since that is out of the question, we ought to focus our energy on the more relevant task at hand.”
He wanted to spank her, kiss her, and then kill her. In that order.
I literally had zero expectations going in, haven't even read the summary really. Even though this is a short story, I could understand and, most importantly, feel the regret and longing both Edward and Persephone had toward one another - I could feel those ten years of seperation between them, could believe how that passage of time instantly vanished when they saw each other again. It was wonderful. They are both such kind and gentle souls, I really enjoyed them as characters ☺️
The only reason why this isn't a five stars book is that little voice in my head that keeps saying how this would've been even better and angstier and just MORE of it was a proper length novel 🤷🏻♀️
special mention to edward's mom, she reminds of my dad so so much! especially when she said that the world keeps changing and how we should not let it, and life, make us love hard 🥺
-> "The world will do as it wishes. It is a different world now than it was when I first arrived in this country. There was no Limehouse, no place I could walk on the street and feel safe.” Which explained why once Limehouse did grow up, it had become her safe haven. Perhaps it was not that she felt she couldn’t leave Limehouse; but rather, she simply did not want to.
“It will undoubtedly change by the time you counsel your own children,” she continued. A soft sigh. “Do not let life make your love hard.”
-> "You cannot know what Persephone will choose unless you let her make the choice. You decided for her all those years ago. She is a woman grown, Edward. She knows the way of the world. Give her the respect of making her own choice, choosing her own path. Choosing you.”
“Mā,” Edward said, his voice as small as a child’s.
The hard line of her mouth did not soften. But her dark, wise eyes did. “What are you really afraid of, Edward?”
“That someday, she will realize her mistake."
January 5, 2024
It was very serendipitous that my first read I finish this year was Cara Maxwell’s Jilted in January from The Rake Review. The Rake Review is a fun monthly themed multi author book series releasing throughout this year.
In an attempt to clean up his brother’s mess Mr Edward Johns unknowingly reaches out to the mysterious Lady Fixer looking for help, only defined that she is also Lady Persephone, the love of his life that he broke his engagement with 10 years ago!
Lady Persephone wants nothing to do with Edward and it definitely not still in love with him… but she can’t resist helping him find who is kidnapped and ransom his brother.
The only way Edward will accept her help now, is if she agrees to work together and to sweeten the deal, he will begin a fake courtship with her to help her, attract attention in her own marital search.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Edward and Persephone. These two have sparks that light up between them whenever they’re together and their witty banter is delicious.
Edward Johns is the sun of a duke and a Chinese immigrant and he has faced racism and prejudice, his whole life, thus precipitating the end of his relationship with Persephone. How can you put her through what he’s been through if he actually loves her? Persephone is a grown woman and that was 10 years ago and she’s able to make her own decisions on what’s important to her and how she wants to live her life. Both of these characters have to grow over their time together, and during their investigation to accept the new versions of themselves and each other and realize that they can’t wait another 10 years to write this wrong and reunite!
This book was fun and fast paced as the characters relationship evolved in the mystery unraveled, definitely one you don’t want to put down until the end!
Jilted in January by Cara Maxwell is available now!
Thank you to author, Cara Maxwell for my e-book review copy to Courtney McCaskill for my Rake Review calendar!
#jiltedinJanuary #caramaxwell #therakereview
In an attempt to clean up his brother’s mess Mr Edward Johns unknowingly reaches out to the mysterious Lady Fixer looking for help, only defined that she is also Lady Persephone, the love of his life that he broke his engagement with 10 years ago!
Lady Persephone wants nothing to do with Edward and it definitely not still in love with him… but she can’t resist helping him find who is kidnapped and ransom his brother.
The only way Edward will accept her help now, is if she agrees to work together and to sweeten the deal, he will begin a fake courtship with her to help her, attract attention in her own marital search.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Edward and Persephone. These two have sparks that light up between them whenever they’re together and their witty banter is delicious.
Edward Johns is the sun of a duke and a Chinese immigrant and he has faced racism and prejudice, his whole life, thus precipitating the end of his relationship with Persephone. How can you put her through what he’s been through if he actually loves her? Persephone is a grown woman and that was 10 years ago and she’s able to make her own decisions on what’s important to her and how she wants to live her life. Both of these characters have to grow over their time together, and during their investigation to accept the new versions of themselves and each other and realize that they can’t wait another 10 years to write this wrong and reunite!
This book was fun and fast paced as the characters relationship evolved in the mystery unraveled, definitely one you don’t want to put down until the end!
Jilted in January by Cara Maxwell is available now!
Thank you to author, Cara Maxwell for my e-book review copy to Courtney McCaskill for my Rake Review calendar!
#jiltedinJanuary #caramaxwell #therakereview
January 1, 2024
I have read several by her and I think this is my favorite – although I did really like the Hesitant Husbands series… 🤔
It is a second chance romance that has a hero who is half Chinese and a heroine who is a duke’s daughter. The hero’s ethnicity played a significant role, and I was glad to see the concerns and issues that a person of color may have dealt with during the time be an important part of the story.
I enjoyed the romance and the longing between the two main characters, even though there was a brief moment that I wanted the heroine to bop the hero over the head with whatever heavy object she could pick up. Anyhoo, I am still a bit miffed at the hero for his action. 🤨.
I am not generally a fan of intrigue and mysteries to solve in my romance novels. Too often I feel that kind of plot takes over and the romance is lost or is a secondary thought. Sometimes it also triggers my anxiety and that is certainly no fun. However! The mystery here was more a problem to solve. I enjoyed the way it was wrapped up. I loved that it didn’t takeover the story and was instead a way for the author to move the romance forward. I would 100% read another similar story by the author.
Bonus points! It was nice to see characters from former books make appearances!
Find the book on Kindle Unlimited or just buy it from Amazon!
It is a second chance romance that has a hero who is half Chinese and a heroine who is a duke’s daughter. The hero’s ethnicity played a significant role, and I was glad to see the concerns and issues that a person of color may have dealt with during the time be an important part of the story.
I enjoyed the romance and the longing between the two main characters, even though there was a brief moment that I wanted the heroine to bop the hero over the head with whatever heavy object she could pick up. Anyhoo, I am still a bit miffed at the hero for his action. 🤨.
I am not generally a fan of intrigue and mysteries to solve in my romance novels. Too often I feel that kind of plot takes over and the romance is lost or is a secondary thought. Sometimes it also triggers my anxiety and that is certainly no fun. However! The mystery here was more a problem to solve. I enjoyed the way it was wrapped up. I loved that it didn’t takeover the story and was instead a way for the author to move the romance forward. I would 100% read another similar story by the author.
Bonus points! It was nice to see characters from former books make appearances!
Find the book on Kindle Unlimited or just buy it from Amazon!
December 25, 2023
Let the Rakes and Brazen Belles begin
This is a second chance romance.
This story is refreshing because of the fact we have a mixed couple.
He is your typical rake however he is willing to put everything aside to find his brother and make sure he is safe however in order to do so he ends up working with the one person he thought he would never see again, the woman he jilted 10 years prior.
She's returned to London with the ultimate goal of finding a husband and having children along with solving petty crimes amongst the ton but what she didn't expect to happen was to help the one person who broke her heart 10 years prior to find his brother.
This will be not only be simply hard for them both but it will be torturous, however with 10 years being separated not only did they mature but their love is stronger than ever. And strong enough to withstand the prejudice of the ton that they will face because he is Chinese..
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end.
I definitely can't wait for the next story in this collection.
I received this story as a gift from the author in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own opinion and that of no one else.
This is a second chance romance.
This story is refreshing because of the fact we have a mixed couple.
He is your typical rake however he is willing to put everything aside to find his brother and make sure he is safe however in order to do so he ends up working with the one person he thought he would never see again, the woman he jilted 10 years prior.
She's returned to London with the ultimate goal of finding a husband and having children along with solving petty crimes amongst the ton but what she didn't expect to happen was to help the one person who broke her heart 10 years prior to find his brother.
This will be not only be simply hard for them both but it will be torturous, however with 10 years being separated not only did they mature but their love is stronger than ever. And strong enough to withstand the prejudice of the ton that they will face because he is Chinese..
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end.
I definitely can't wait for the next story in this collection.
I received this story as a gift from the author in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own opinion and that of no one else.
February 22, 2026
В предверии нового сезона “Бриджертонов” захотелось почитать какой-нибудь исторический любовный романчик. Выбор пал на эту малышку. Красивый, но в целом целомудренный мужик на обложке? Есть! Маленький объем? Всего 200 страниц! Подходит по сезону? Слово “январь” прямо в названии! Берем!
Господамы, искала медь, а нашла золото! Оказывается это не одиночка - а первая книга целой серии, где каждая посвящена отдельному месяцу в году и написана разными авторами. Таким образом суммарно их 12. Было решено замутить такой вот книжный адвент, где каждый месяц я буду читать по книге из этой серии.
Связь между книгами довольно условная: Главным Героем оказывается мужчина, которому “посчастливилось” попасть в ежемесячный “Обзор Повес” от некой дамы, которая скрывается за псевдонимом Наглая Красавица.
Главным Героем “Брошенной в Январе” является Мистер Эдвард Джонс, владелец мореходного бизнеса, который благодаря нажитому богатству смог пробится в высшие круги. Аристократы Лондона не особо жалуют Эдварда не только из-за отсутствия у него титула, но и из-за его происхождения: отец - белый британец, а мать - китаянка. К чести, Эдварду все эти светские мероприятия тоже до лампочки, но на бал в честь Нового Года он пошел с конкретной целью: найти некую Леди Наладчицу и заручится ее помощью. За несколько дней до начала книги Эдварду пришла записка с требованием выкупа взамен на свободу его брата, и по-совместительству семейной головной боли, Альфреда. Весь план Эдварда летит к чертям как только выясняется, что Леди Наладчица - никто иная, как его бывшая невеста Персефона Катберт. Ну знаете, та самая брошенная в январе из названия.
Персефона в свои 27 уже считается старой девой. После того, как десять лет назад Эдвард бросил ее, она уехала в Америку, и начала предоставлять свои услуги в виде Леди Наладчицы. Такая небольшая детективная работенка для души. Теперь она вернулась в Лондон с твердым намерением выйти замуж, но всю малину ей портит бывший жених. С одной стороны, иметь дел с Эдвардом ей не хочется, но с другой – Альфред всегда относился к ней хорошо, а поэтому она обязана его спасти. Посему бывшие возлюбленные заключают договор: Персефона поможет найти Алфреда, а Эдвард, как Повеса Месяца, будет появляться с ней на светских вечеринках, чтобы повысить интерес потенциальных ухажеров.
Изначально понятно, что Персефона и Эдвард сойдутся вновь, потому что, несмотря на время и расстояние, они друг друга не забыли. Мне понравилось, как автор расписала причину их расставания и при этом не сделала виноватым кого-то конкретного. Как я уже говорила, у Эдварда нет титула, а Персефона является дочерью герцога. Он ниже ее по классовой лестнице, брак с ним Персефоне не выгоден. Помимо этого, расовая принадлежность Эдварда - это аспект, который значительно осложняет ему жизнь и осложнит жизнь его избраннице. Мать Эдварда жила в чужой стране чуть ли не в полной изоляции от общества. Она обрела какое-то окружение только после того, как в страну стали заселяться другие мигранты из Китая. Саму Персефону перестали приглашать на светские мероприятия еще во время периода ухаживаний.
Большую часть книги Персефона настолько ослеплена собственной болью, что не видит весомость доводов Эдварда. Ее глаза открываются только после того, как она лично становится свидетелем нападения на расовой почве на него. Несмотря на то, что ситуация теперь другая (Эдвард теперь чуть ли не самый богатый человек в Лондоне) проблемы и нетерпимость не исчезли, но именно сама Персефона должна выбрать готова она с этим мирится или нет. И это интересно, и небанально! Побеждает коммуникация!
Разумеется, тут хэппи энд со свадьбой. Брат оказывается жив и невредим. Более того, он сам подстроил свое похищение, с целью стрясти с родных денег, выкупить свою возлюбленную-проститутку и жениться на ней. Ее, кстати, тоже приняли в семью. Вот так вот.
Первая книга в серии была довольно приятной, поэтому ждем февраля.
Серия “Обзор Повес”
1. Кара Максвелл - Брошенная в Январе
2. Чарли Лэйн - Фальшивый Февральский Повеса
3. Сэйди Боск - Безумный Мартовский Герцог
4. Аннабель Андерс - Дождь из Повес в Апреле
5. Кортни МакКаскилл - Один Прекрасный Май
6. Фенна Эджвуд - Шотландец, Который Сделал Июнь Жарким
7. Кейт Бейтман - Скандал в Июле
8. Кэтлин Айерс - Наследница для Августа
9. Диана Болд - Соблазнение Сентябрьского Негодяя
10. Табита Уэйт - Охота на Мистера Октября
11. Шана Гален - Мистер Печально Известный и Гнусный Ноябрь
12. Трэйси Самнер - Высокий, Темный и Декабрь
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Господамы, искала медь, а нашла золото! Оказывается это не одиночка - а первая книга целой серии, где каждая посвящена отдельному месяцу в году и написана разными авторами. Таким образом суммарно их 12. Было решено замутить такой вот книжный адвент, где каждый месяц я буду читать по книге из этой серии.
Связь между книгами довольно условная: Главным Героем оказывается мужчина, которому “посчастливилось” попасть в ежемесячный “Обзор Повес” от некой дамы, которая скрывается за псевдонимом Наглая Красавица.
Главным Героем “Брошенной в Январе” является Мистер Эдвард Джонс, владелец мореходного бизнеса, который благодаря нажитому богатству смог пробится в высшие круги. Аристократы Лондона не особо жалуют Эдварда не только из-за отсутствия у него титула, но и из-за его происхождения: отец - белый британец, а мать - китаянка. К чести, Эдварду все эти светские мероприятия тоже до лампочки, но на бал в честь Нового Года он пошел с конкретной целью: найти некую Леди Наладчицу и заручится ее помощью. За несколько дней до начала книги Эдварду пришла записка с требованием выкупа взамен на свободу его брата, и по-совместительству семейной головной боли, Альфреда. Весь план Эдварда летит к чертям как только выясняется, что Леди Наладчица - никто иная, как его бывшая невеста Персефона Катберт. Ну знаете, та самая брошенная в январе из названия.
Персефона в свои 27 уже считается старой девой. После того, как десять лет назад Эдвард бросил ее, она уехала в Америку, и начала предоставлять свои услуги в виде Леди Наладчицы. Такая небольшая детективная работенка для души. Теперь она вернулась в Лондон с твердым намерением выйти замуж, но всю малину ей портит бывший жених. С одной стороны, иметь дел с Эдвардом ей не хочется, но с другой – Альфред всегда относился к ней хорошо, а поэтому она обязана его спасти. Посему бывшие возлюбленные заключают договор: Персефона поможет найти Алфреда, а Эдвард, как Повеса Месяца, будет появляться с ней на светских вечеринках, чтобы повысить интерес потенциальных ухажеров.
Изначально понятно, что Персефона и Эдвард сойдутся вновь, потому что, несмотря на время и расстояние, они друг друга не забыли. Мне понравилось, как автор расписала причину их расставания и при этом не сделала виноватым кого-то конкретного. Как я уже говорила, у Эдварда нет титула, а Персефона является дочерью герцога. Он ниже ее по классовой лестнице, брак с ним Персефоне не выгоден. Помимо этого, расовая принадлежность Эдварда - это аспект, который значительно осложняет ему жизнь и осложнит жизнь его избраннице. Мать Эдварда жила в чужой стране чуть ли не в полной изоляции от общества. Она обрела какое-то окружение только после того, как в страну стали заселяться другие мигранты из Китая. Саму Персефону перестали приглашать на светские мероприятия еще во время периода ухаживаний.
Большую часть книги Персефона настолько ослеплена собственной болью, что не видит весомость доводов Эдварда. Ее глаза открываются только после того, как она лично становится свидетелем нападения на расовой почве на него. Несмотря на то, что ситуация теперь другая (Эдвард теперь чуть ли не самый богатый человек в Лондоне) проблемы и нетерпимость не исчезли, но именно сама Персефона должна выбрать готова она с этим мирится или нет. И это интересно, и небанально! Побеждает коммуникация!
Разумеется, тут хэппи энд со свадьбой. Брат оказывается жив и невредим. Более того, он сам подстроил свое похищение, с целью стрясти с родных денег, выкупить свою возлюбленную-проститутку и жениться на ней. Ее, кстати, тоже приняли в семью. Вот так вот.
Первая книга в серии была довольно приятной, поэтому ждем февраля.
Серия “Обзор Повес”
1. Кара Максвелл - Брошенная в Январе
2. Чарли Лэйн - Фальшивый Февральский Повеса
3. Сэйди Боск - Безумный Мартовский Герцог
4. Аннабель Андерс - Дождь из Повес в Апреле
5. Кортни МакКаскилл - Один Прекрасный Май
6. Фенна Эджвуд - Шотландец, Который Сделал Июнь Жарким
7. Кейт Бейтман - Скандал в Июле
8. Кэтлин Айерс - Наследница для Августа
9. Диана Болд - Соблазнение Сентябрьского Негодяя
10. Табита Уэйт - Охота на Мистера Октября
11. Шана Гален - Мистер Печально Известный и Гнусный Ноябрь
12. Трэйси Самнер - Высокий, Темный и Декабрь
Мой Телеграм Канал
December 19, 2024
I skimmed 50% of this book. Boring.
March 20, 2024
Great start to a new series
A heart stirring second chance love story, a tale of class differences, an emotional telling of racial inequalities, and an enthralling mystery all combine in Jilted in January, the first book in an entertaining new series. Persephone, the heroine of this enjoyable book and the daughter of a Duke, has recently returned to London from New York and is striving to start a new life by finding a husband and using her talents to solve or “fix” small mysteries for members of the ton. Edward, the son of a wealthy self-made man (the grandson of a Duke) and his Chinese wife, is looking to solve the mystery of his brother’s kidnapping while avoiding emotional entanglement. Will Persephone and Edward be able to put their shared past behind them and work together to find Edward’s brother? Or, will their past love for each other be rekindled? If it is, can they succeed as a couple with their differences? I thought that the author did a good job of trying to explain the cultural and racial inequalities that Edward faced daily while creating a sizzling hot romance. I loved that Persephone used her intelligence to methodically solve problems and mysteries and that she saw past race when meeting people. I do hope that the reader will catch up with Persephone and Edward in future books. The Rake Review, a monthly series by different authors, is off to a great start with this initial book.
A heart stirring second chance love story, a tale of class differences, an emotional telling of racial inequalities, and an enthralling mystery all combine in Jilted in January, the first book in an entertaining new series. Persephone, the heroine of this enjoyable book and the daughter of a Duke, has recently returned to London from New York and is striving to start a new life by finding a husband and using her talents to solve or “fix” small mysteries for members of the ton. Edward, the son of a wealthy self-made man (the grandson of a Duke) and his Chinese wife, is looking to solve the mystery of his brother’s kidnapping while avoiding emotional entanglement. Will Persephone and Edward be able to put their shared past behind them and work together to find Edward’s brother? Or, will their past love for each other be rekindled? If it is, can they succeed as a couple with their differences? I thought that the author did a good job of trying to explain the cultural and racial inequalities that Edward faced daily while creating a sizzling hot romance. I loved that Persephone used her intelligence to methodically solve problems and mysteries and that she saw past race when meeting people. I do hope that the reader will catch up with Persephone and Edward in future books. The Rake Review, a monthly series by different authors, is off to a great start with this initial book.
February 11, 2024
Cara Maxwell has done it again, another book finished in tears. I am broken! The beauty in this story encompasses so many levels. The heartache of longing, the anguish of standing right beside your love and knowing you cannot have them and the harsh truths of a world full of prejudice. These all come together to paint a stunning picture of the realities of this world and the overwhelming healing power of unguarded love. Persephone’s anger and hurt is so justified, and yet equally felt is Edward’s all too real fear. He thinks he is protecting her, he is willing to destroy himself in order to keep her from every hurt. Their connection draws you into their story and you cannot help but feel every slight, every maddening excuse and every gut wrenching step back. In the end the solutions come from the most wisened source of all, his mama! Truly if there is one person who can see clearly and have the guts to tell you the cold, hard facts, it’s your mom. I loved her interactions in this story. Of course, we are blessed with our promised HEA but not before I was a sobbing mess. Then in the authors notes, seeing Nora’s story, The Duchess Who Dared mentioned, it all came flooding back and I was taken back to the beginning of the story and seeing little Nora and melting. I did not place it until then, but oh how I loved her story. Trust me when I say, you need to read this story for it is a very enlightening take on the prejudices that surround us everyday and how important it is to be brave enough to grasp your happiness and hold on tight.
May 28, 2024
Great start to a series! Enjoyable characters and a diverse hero. Loved it!
April 27, 2025
Fun second-chance story!
I would have liked a little more on Persephone and Edward's relationship from 10 years ago. There's glimpses and you're able to infer that they loved each other, but it felt like (even with the glimpses we got from Edward's POV) that things just went from 60 to 0 fast enough to make everyone's head twirl. And on the one hand, I could kind of see Edward's reasonings/revelations, I did wish he'd bothered to ask Persephone rather than just deciding for her. Granted, if he'd done that, we wouldn't have gotten the yearning from the current time so maybe it worked out!
I liked Persephone and her whole Lady Fixer persona. I would have liked a little more about how she created it/put it to use in New York though. We did see a little of it here, both with helping Edward and one or two of the cases she was helping with with other members of the ton. There were a couple she'd referenced that I don't think got solved, which would have been interesting to see. While I get her being hurt by what Edward had done, at one point she tells Madison that one of the interactions is what made her finally realize what Edward went through. For someone as smart as she is, it just felt like maybe at this point, she'd have been able to understand it. Not saying she couldn't still be hurt, but it felt like she was blaming Edward for just walking away, rather than blaming him for not giving her the choice.
Edward was decent. I did laugh at his internal monologue when it came to Persephone because man was gone for her from the beginning. The reveal on how far he was willing to go to prevent his parents from dealing with Alfred was interesting but I did like that as mad as he got at Alfred, he still cared for him and his parents. Yes, he'd been going about with not quite right thought assumptions, but he was trying to help. His mom made me laugh; I loved the way she cut through his BS and called him out on his idiocy regarding Persephone. We only really saw it in action once, but I liked when he got in the fight in the alley, how he was able to defend himself so well but also how most of his thought process was doing it to protect Persephone. I was glad that he was finally able to acknowledge his feelings and then he went after Persephone instead of calling it "for her own good" and walking away again. Granted, I'm sure if he tried, his mother would have thrown her shoe at him.
Overall, this was an interesting intro to The Rake Review, and I liked that little cameo from The Brazen Belle there at the end. Definitely intrigued and I want to see what other rakes come up!
I would have liked a little more on Persephone and Edward's relationship from 10 years ago. There's glimpses and you're able to infer that they loved each other, but it felt like (even with the glimpses we got from Edward's POV) that things just went from 60 to 0 fast enough to make everyone's head twirl. And on the one hand, I could kind of see Edward's reasonings/revelations, I did wish he'd bothered to ask Persephone rather than just deciding for her. Granted, if he'd done that, we wouldn't have gotten the yearning from the current time so maybe it worked out!
I liked Persephone and her whole Lady Fixer persona. I would have liked a little more about how she created it/put it to use in New York though. We did see a little of it here, both with helping Edward and one or two of the cases she was helping with with other members of the ton. There were a couple she'd referenced that I don't think got solved, which would have been interesting to see. While I get her being hurt by what Edward had done, at one point she tells Madison that one of the interactions is what made her finally realize what Edward went through. For someone as smart as she is, it just felt like maybe at this point, she'd have been able to understand it. Not saying she couldn't still be hurt, but it felt like she was blaming Edward for just walking away, rather than blaming him for not giving her the choice.
Edward was decent. I did laugh at his internal monologue when it came to Persephone because man was gone for her from the beginning. The reveal on how far he was willing to go to prevent his parents from dealing with Alfred was interesting but I did like that as mad as he got at Alfred, he still cared for him and his parents. Yes, he'd been going about with not quite right thought assumptions, but he was trying to help. His mom made me laugh; I loved the way she cut through his BS and called him out on his idiocy regarding Persephone. We only really saw it in action once, but I liked when he got in the fight in the alley, how he was able to defend himself so well but also how most of his thought process was doing it to protect Persephone. I was glad that he was finally able to acknowledge his feelings and then he went after Persephone instead of calling it "for her own good" and walking away again. Granted, I'm sure if he tried, his mother would have thrown her shoe at him.
Overall, this was an interesting intro to The Rake Review, and I liked that little cameo from The Brazen Belle there at the end. Definitely intrigued and I want to see what other rakes come up!
January 4, 2025
Over the holidays I kept seeing The Rake Review series popping up all over my social media. Since the series is now complete, I decided it was time to dive in. And Jilted in January was a great start.
First, I just wanted to appreciate that Jilted in January is a Regency romance, but the male main character is half Chinese. I'm 99% sure this is the first time that I've read a Regency, set in London with Asian representation in this sense. And I liked it. In fact, I wish the author leaned a little more into it as I was expecting more following an author's note at the beginning of the book.
I ultimately gave this book 3.5 stars and it was mostly because I was getting frustrated with how Edward kept treating Persephone. And she kept basically taking it. I mean, it's a romance so we all know how it's going to turn out, but it was a head-banging ride. And this is a "me" thing, but it's also why second chance romances are often hit and miss for me.
This was the first Cara Maxwell book I've read and I don't think it'll be my last. And I can't wait to read more of this series to discover more new-to-me authors.
First, I just wanted to appreciate that Jilted in January is a Regency romance, but the male main character is half Chinese. I'm 99% sure this is the first time that I've read a Regency, set in London with Asian representation in this sense. And I liked it. In fact, I wish the author leaned a little more into it as I was expecting more following an author's note at the beginning of the book.
I ultimately gave this book 3.5 stars and it was mostly because I was getting frustrated with how Edward kept treating Persephone. And she kept basically taking it. I mean, it's a romance so we all know how it's going to turn out, but it was a head-banging ride. And this is a "me" thing, but it's also why second chance romances are often hit and miss for me.
This was the first Cara Maxwell book I've read and I don't think it'll be my last. And I can't wait to read more of this series to discover more new-to-me authors.
January 28, 2024
This was a good book to start off the 12 book series, The Rake Review! A similar notion to Bridgerton where The Brazen Belle writes a gossip column once a month and names a new rake for the ton to note.
I really appreciated the heritage of hero Edward Johns, who is a half-Chinese man. His second chance romance with Persephone Cuthbert is very touching. Each of them having changed over the ten years apart, each keeping the flame for the other kept burning, only to be rekindled and set aflame when Edward requests the assistance of the "Lady Fixer" to aid him in finding his supposed kidnapped brother. It's amazing what time and space can do for a person and one's perspective. They both overcame adversity in their own ways.
I cannot wait to continue the series in "February!"
I really appreciated the heritage of hero Edward Johns, who is a half-Chinese man. His second chance romance with Persephone Cuthbert is very touching. Each of them having changed over the ten years apart, each keeping the flame for the other kept burning, only to be rekindled and set aflame when Edward requests the assistance of the "Lady Fixer" to aid him in finding his supposed kidnapped brother. It's amazing what time and space can do for a person and one's perspective. They both overcame adversity in their own ways.
I cannot wait to continue the series in "February!"
January 11, 2025
This was alright...
I'm excited to venture into this historical romance series! While this first entry wasn't the best for me, I still appreciated the writing style and some of the story elements such as the mystery/adventure theme.
Looking forward to continuing this series!
I'm excited to venture into this historical romance series! While this first entry wasn't the best for me, I still appreciated the writing style and some of the story elements such as the mystery/adventure theme.
Looking forward to continuing this series!
January 1, 2024
Fun book to start this multi-author series!
I love that Penelope is older than so many heroines in Regency romances. She’s strong and smart, and Edward is dreamy.
This book suits the genre well, with plenty of scenes at ton events and some fun steamy scenes too. Edward’s mom is my favorite character, though. She’s not in many scenes, but I love her personality.
I look forward to February’s book in The Rake Review.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I love that Penelope is older than so many heroines in Regency romances. She’s strong and smart, and Edward is dreamy.
This book suits the genre well, with plenty of scenes at ton events and some fun steamy scenes too. Edward’s mom is my favorite character, though. She’s not in many scenes, but I love her personality.
I look forward to February’s book in The Rake Review.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
February 29, 2024
As a fan of themed reading, I am stoked about this series! A new book by a different author for each month? Yes, please.
January features a self made hero, the son of a Chinese immigrant and the great-grandson of a Duke. And a heroine returning to London from America, determined to find a husband only to run into our hero who needs her help, after 10 years and a broken engagement.
I have come to the conclusion that 2nd chance romance (with a few exceptions) is one of my least favorite tropes. But I'm rounding this up to a 4 because the problem was completely mine. Cara Maxwell is a new to me author and I'm really excited to read more. Because although the trope isn't my cup of tea, the writing style was great!
•1820's London
•2nd chance romance
•Self made hero
•Heroine with a secret alter ego
•Class difference
•Slow burn
•Steamy! 4 🔥
January features a self made hero, the son of a Chinese immigrant and the great-grandson of a Duke. And a heroine returning to London from America, determined to find a husband only to run into our hero who needs her help, after 10 years and a broken engagement.
I have come to the conclusion that 2nd chance romance (with a few exceptions) is one of my least favorite tropes. But I'm rounding this up to a 4 because the problem was completely mine. Cara Maxwell is a new to me author and I'm really excited to read more. Because although the trope isn't my cup of tea, the writing style was great!
•1820's London
•2nd chance romance
•Self made hero
•Heroine with a secret alter ego
•Class difference
•Slow burn
•Steamy! 4 🔥
April 4, 2024
Generally, this is a bare bones basic romance novel with a fake mystery that is painfully obvious from the start, a fake dating trope that is painfully unnecessary, and not much emotion, drama, character to fuel the story. The author cribs from Julia Quinn’s Lady Whistledown in lieu of exposition with The Belle gossip pages. Unfortunately, there isn’t even a tiny bit of tension in the question of will they or won’t they because obviously they will from page 1.
Hilariously, as is typical in these modern “historical” romances, the fmc is an expert at performing sexual acts despite never having had sex.
The words are spelled correctly and the author takes great pains to include a racial element, which is a twist from the typical fare.
Hilariously, as is typical in these modern “historical” romances, the fmc is an expert at performing sexual acts despite never having had sex.
The words are spelled correctly and the author takes great pains to include a racial element, which is a twist from the typical fare.
March 24, 2024
Not worth a (re-)read
I am not very forgiving so I could not forgive Edward. How many times can a woman be rejected??!! Then after the initial rejection, the man who proclaims to love you sleep with every widow in London. She should have married someone else. The three stars is for the writing.
I am not very forgiving so I could not forgive Edward. How many times can a woman be rejected??!! Then after the initial rejection, the man who proclaims to love you sleep with every widow in London. She should have married someone else. The three stars is for the writing.
March 27, 2024
Good at showing sexual tension between former lovers--awful for the Regency period. Soft porn and 21st century characters sooo if that is your preference, why not write current novels.
December 29, 2023
Thanks to the author for the ARC copy of this ebook, the first in the multi-author series, the Rake Review. This is my freely given opinion.
This first book of the series, Jilted in January by Cara Maxwell, really hit several of the right notes for me - namely a bit of colour, a second chance at love, and a hint of intrigue and mystery, and a strong-minded, independent female.
Edward Johns broke Persephone Cuthbert's heart 10 years prior when he broke off their engagement, and proceeded to become a noted rake, a partner in his father's shipping company, and wealthy merchant in his own right. Despite being the great-grandson of a duke, he is barely accepted by Society because of his bi-racial background, namely being half Chinese. He is only accepted now because other peers have become rich because of his industry and success in trading, and the Society women enjoy having the notorious rake in their bed.
What he has hidden though is that while he broke Persephone's heart, his heart was also broken as well, because he broke off their connection because of his own desire to protect her. While he is tenuously accepted in Society now, 10 years prior, as a young, untried man with no wealth successes of his own, he was not viewed in Society's eyes as an acceptable match for the daughter of a peer, such as Persephone, and his social snubs started to affect Persephone the more they associated publicly. To prevent Persephone from being cut and shunned, he ended their engagement harshly.
Persephone, the daughter of a duke, took herself off the America and using her ability to think abstractly and make connections, learned to become an investigator and fixer, focusing on helping other women. After doing so successfully and integrating in New York society for years, she has finally returned to London, with the plans to continue being the Lady Fixer, but also to move on with her life, finding a husband and starting a family.
What she did not expect was to be confronted by Edward at a ball, because he was looking for the Lady Fixer, not realizing it was Persephone, to help him with a looming problem. He had received a ransom note for his missing younger brother, and needed help to find him before his parents find out the situation, and the ransom becomes due.
This becomes a second chance for Edward, because he never stopped loving Persephone. But he has to overcome his past with her, and continues to face the prejudice of Society, despite gaining some greater acceptance because of his wealth and success. Lady Persephone doesn't trust Edward because of their past, and his rakish reputation, but she hold great fondness for his younger brother and wishes to help find the missing young man. Edward, for reasons of his own, is not overly concerned about his brother's situation, but uses it to help him to become closer to Persephone, and perhaps regain her favour again. As they spend more time together, Persephone learns more about some of the prejudices and barriers that Edward faced and gains some understanding of what happened to cause their break up years prior.
I loved the romantic story of Persephone and Edward, and the racial context. It is not often I see an Asian main character and I love when it happens and their social perspective and context is written into the story. Edward's mother and their little community made me think of my own mother and grandmother (and no, asking their friends to keep secrets from them just would be stupid - gossip while communal cooking or mahjong were what made my grandmother thrive, and she would have exploded trying to keep a child's relationship secret from their mother).
There was a lot more I wanted from the story after reading it though, and none of this detracted from the story for me - I just wanted more. For one, I was curious about Edward's extended family - being that his father was the grandson of a duke, I was wondering if he was cut off, after marrying a Chinese woman and bringing her to England, or if Edward had any relationships with the paternal side of the family - were they positive/negative and how did that affect his place in Society and his perspective? My presumption from the writing was that he had not ties with them. Two, considering the two families approved the match between Persephone and Edward 10 years prior, how did her parents view Edward and his family, and how were they connected? Afterall, it sounds like they were more open minded than most, approving the match, and then supporting Persephone in her independent travels to America for such a long time. This is also something I connect with and am curious about too, being in a mixed race relationship as well.
Also, after reading about Edward's relationship with his mother, and his own misconceptions of their relationship and the difficulties he thought his mother faced, it made me want to know more about the senior Johns and how their relationship came to be.
4.25 stars out of 5
This first book of the series, Jilted in January by Cara Maxwell, really hit several of the right notes for me - namely a bit of colour, a second chance at love, and a hint of intrigue and mystery, and a strong-minded, independent female.
Edward Johns broke Persephone Cuthbert's heart 10 years prior when he broke off their engagement, and proceeded to become a noted rake, a partner in his father's shipping company, and wealthy merchant in his own right. Despite being the great-grandson of a duke, he is barely accepted by Society because of his bi-racial background, namely being half Chinese. He is only accepted now because other peers have become rich because of his industry and success in trading, and the Society women enjoy having the notorious rake in their bed.
What he has hidden though is that while he broke Persephone's heart, his heart was also broken as well, because he broke off their connection because of his own desire to protect her. While he is tenuously accepted in Society now, 10 years prior, as a young, untried man with no wealth successes of his own, he was not viewed in Society's eyes as an acceptable match for the daughter of a peer, such as Persephone, and his social snubs started to affect Persephone the more they associated publicly. To prevent Persephone from being cut and shunned, he ended their engagement harshly.
Persephone, the daughter of a duke, took herself off the America and using her ability to think abstractly and make connections, learned to become an investigator and fixer, focusing on helping other women. After doing so successfully and integrating in New York society for years, she has finally returned to London, with the plans to continue being the Lady Fixer, but also to move on with her life, finding a husband and starting a family.
What she did not expect was to be confronted by Edward at a ball, because he was looking for the Lady Fixer, not realizing it was Persephone, to help him with a looming problem. He had received a ransom note for his missing younger brother, and needed help to find him before his parents find out the situation, and the ransom becomes due.
This becomes a second chance for Edward, because he never stopped loving Persephone. But he has to overcome his past with her, and continues to face the prejudice of Society, despite gaining some greater acceptance because of his wealth and success. Lady Persephone doesn't trust Edward because of their past, and his rakish reputation, but she hold great fondness for his younger brother and wishes to help find the missing young man. Edward, for reasons of his own, is not overly concerned about his brother's situation, but uses it to help him to become closer to Persephone, and perhaps regain her favour again. As they spend more time together, Persephone learns more about some of the prejudices and barriers that Edward faced and gains some understanding of what happened to cause their break up years prior.
I loved the romantic story of Persephone and Edward, and the racial context. It is not often I see an Asian main character and I love when it happens and their social perspective and context is written into the story. Edward's mother and their little community made me think of my own mother and grandmother (and no, asking their friends to keep secrets from them just would be stupid - gossip while communal cooking or mahjong were what made my grandmother thrive, and she would have exploded trying to keep a child's relationship secret from their mother).
There was a lot more I wanted from the story after reading it though, and none of this detracted from the story for me - I just wanted more. For one, I was curious about Edward's extended family - being that his father was the grandson of a duke, I was wondering if he was cut off, after marrying a Chinese woman and bringing her to England, or if Edward had any relationships with the paternal side of the family - were they positive/negative and how did that affect his place in Society and his perspective? My presumption from the writing was that he had not ties with them. Two, considering the two families approved the match between Persephone and Edward 10 years prior, how did her parents view Edward and his family, and how were they connected? Afterall, it sounds like they were more open minded than most, approving the match, and then supporting Persephone in her independent travels to America for such a long time. This is also something I connect with and am curious about too, being in a mixed race relationship as well.
Also, after reading about Edward's relationship with his mother, and his own misconceptions of their relationship and the difficulties he thought his mother faced, it made me want to know more about the senior Johns and how their relationship came to be.
4.25 stars out of 5
January 16, 2024
This one is BAD. Twice in as many months, I have read two books that I highly anticipated and which turned out to be utter duds. The other is 'The Duke starts a scandal' by Sophie Jordan ICYWW.
I wish I wasn't a completionist. But oh well! Here are the many many issues. First the objectively bad stuff in the book:
- H is a complete rake. He has slept with every second widow/unhappily married woman in the ton. He also visits brothels (but more on this later....) Now, lest you forget this vital fact, the author beats us over the head with it every 10 sentences in the first 30 pages. First he wonders about his sleeping around, then she thinks about it and then his amorous exploits actually come up for discussion in three separate interactions between our two leads. WTF!
- The author wants us to believe H has always been in love with h. While he has proceeded to bed countless women and probably spread STDs all around, at one point H wants to tell her he is in love with her in the same conversation as discussing his nocturnal activities. BTW, this is only their second meeting after re-acquaintance. How is this romance? There is also another instance of H thinking how he has always been hers - heart, body and soul. umm... no dude you haven't
- Contradictory explanations for H's behaviour . We are first told that H is a rake. This is not a discreet activity of his but a very known fact in the ton since three separate women approach him at balls for a quickie. Also it comes out in the gossip columns. Then at some point, H thinks that he has only survived (and risen up) in the ton because of his perfect reputation.... and how one slip could damage it all... Good God! The author needs to make up her mind here.
- The H actually goes to a brothel . The author tries to be clever here because H does not actually bed any woman. But I don't know who the joke is on here because the exact line is 'Tonight it wasn't about pride. Tonight he was here to satiate another need.' Then there are two paragraphs about how the ton women weren't enough for him and so he also went to brothels over the past decade. Another example of contradictory writing - We are told the harlots were more prejudiced than the ton widows. Later we are told he came there because it was different when money was involved.
My other issues:
- 10 years is a bit much . I find any second-chance love story more than 5ish years just unbelievable. 10 years pining over someone is just unhealthy.
- No chemistry . Much like Sophie Jordan's book, our two leads keep thinking about how much they love each other separately - there are pages and pages of this - but their actual verbal interactions are either transactional or plain antagonistic. For example, h is constantly shown to be eating sweet treats. The H never comments on this, much less bring a bagful of them for her.
- The worst steamy scenes. The first time they perform oral on each other in a random place. The second time they make love in a random place where he spills inside her. (making me wonder how many other times he may have done so). Both times he immediately thinks he should not be with her. Kill me now.
There are so many other issues - absentee elder brother & his wife, the h indefinitely putting up at a friend's place, the Duke apparently alright with the engagement of his only daughter to a half-Chinese dude, and even more bafflingly okay with that dude jilting her!, the mother not bothering to knock some sense into him the first time around, h hanging around for at least 3 years watching him sleep around before leaving for New York.
I personally would have liked it a lot more had the H actually jilted her while promising himself that he would become a powerful man and ask for her hand in marriage if she still remained single. That at least would have given him some motivation for him breaking up with her.
OR if he had kept tabs on her - finding out that she had arrived back in London, etc.
Even as he does become richer than Midas in 10 years, there is no indication that he would have sought her out because he LOVED HER SOOO MUCH! As things go, I believe this with complete certainty that H would have slept with one of those two women at that first ball had he not been looking for Lady Fixer. He saw H, found out she is still single and therefore goes on to believe and let her believe how she has always been his one true love.
I wish I wasn't a completionist. But oh well! Here are the many many issues. First the objectively bad stuff in the book:
- H is a complete rake. He has slept with every second widow/unhappily married woman in the ton. He also visits brothels (but more on this later....) Now, lest you forget this vital fact, the author beats us over the head with it every 10 sentences in the first 30 pages. First he wonders about his sleeping around, then she thinks about it and then his amorous exploits actually come up for discussion in three separate interactions between our two leads. WTF!
- The author wants us to believe H has always been in love with h. While he has proceeded to bed countless women and probably spread STDs all around, at one point H wants to tell her he is in love with her in the same conversation as discussing his nocturnal activities. BTW, this is only their second meeting after re-acquaintance. How is this romance? There is also another instance of H thinking how he has always been hers - heart, body and soul. umm... no dude you haven't
- Contradictory explanations for H's behaviour . We are first told that H is a rake. This is not a discreet activity of his but a very known fact in the ton since three separate women approach him at balls for a quickie. Also it comes out in the gossip columns. Then at some point, H thinks that he has only survived (and risen up) in the ton because of his perfect reputation.... and how one slip could damage it all... Good God! The author needs to make up her mind here.
- The H actually goes to a brothel . The author tries to be clever here because H does not actually bed any woman. But I don't know who the joke is on here because the exact line is 'Tonight it wasn't about pride. Tonight he was here to satiate another need.' Then there are two paragraphs about how the ton women weren't enough for him and so he also went to brothels over the past decade. Another example of contradictory writing - We are told the harlots were more prejudiced than the ton widows. Later we are told he came there because it was different when money was involved.
My other issues:
- 10 years is a bit much . I find any second-chance love story more than 5ish years just unbelievable. 10 years pining over someone is just unhealthy.
- No chemistry . Much like Sophie Jordan's book, our two leads keep thinking about how much they love each other separately - there are pages and pages of this - but their actual verbal interactions are either transactional or plain antagonistic. For example, h is constantly shown to be eating sweet treats. The H never comments on this, much less bring a bagful of them for her.
- The worst steamy scenes. The first time they perform oral on each other in a random place. The second time they make love in a random place where he spills inside her. (making me wonder how many other times he may have done so). Both times he immediately thinks he should not be with her. Kill me now.
There are so many other issues - absentee elder brother & his wife, the h indefinitely putting up at a friend's place, the Duke apparently alright with the engagement of his only daughter to a half-Chinese dude, and even more bafflingly okay with that dude jilting her!, the mother not bothering to knock some sense into him the first time around, h hanging around for at least 3 years watching him sleep around before leaving for New York.
I personally would have liked it a lot more had the H actually jilted her while promising himself that he would become a powerful man and ask for her hand in marriage if she still remained single. That at least would have given him some motivation for him breaking up with her.
OR if he had kept tabs on her - finding out that she had arrived back in London, etc.
Even as he does become richer than Midas in 10 years, there is no indication that he would have sought her out because he LOVED HER SOOO MUCH! As things go, I believe this with complete certainty that H would have slept with one of those two women at that first ball had he not been looking for Lady Fixer. He saw H, found out she is still single and therefore goes on to believe and let her believe how she has always been his one true love.
December 18, 2023
Tropes:
Second chance
Fake Dating
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Forbidden Love/Class Conflict
sex before 50% – no
On page sex scenes – 3
FMC is virgin – probably not
MMC is virgin – no
Steam level 3
Jilted in January is the first book in a multi author series, The Rake Review. 12 books in total are planned with a new one being released each month.
I enjoy an historical romance where I learn a little bit about the era. Set in 1820 our main male character is the son of a Duke's grandson and a Chinese immigrant. Finding main characters of color in a regency romance is always a treat. Especially when the circumstances of birth are handled with plausibility for the era. while the characters race does play an important role in our story, the romance takes centerstage. After reading the book, I found myself interested in the history of the Limehouse area of London.
The MMC and the FMC have history that dates 10 years prior to this book. A chance meeting found them at an event of the Ton that led to love and an unofficial betrothal. One that was supported by both of their parents. Which was pleasantly surprising, since the FMC is a Duke's daughter. The MMC unceremoniously breaks things off after the FMC has been given the direct cut by some stodgy Grande Dame of the Ton.
Heartbroken, she escapes to New York City where she does a little salon sleuthing as the "Lady Fixer" uncovering petty theft, and tracking down errant second sons draining the family coffers.
She returns to London with two goals in mind, one she wants to continue her role as the Lady Fixer for the Ton and she wants to find a husband because she has a biological clock that's ticking pretty loudly. Especially after witnessing the heartwarming love match of her host/chaperone the Marchioness of Clydon... who is making an encore appearance from the author's "Hesitant Husbands" series.
The past 10 years have found the MMC accumulating more wealth than Midas and his presence is begrudgingly accepted by the Ton. Sure he’s a rake, he’s pursued by matrons and widows alike, but he’s never gotten over Persephone. He’s got a lot of self loathing going on.
When his younger brother is held for ransom, he seeks out the Fixer to help find him. He doesn’t realize until it’s too late that the renown "Fixer" from New York City is actually the "Lady Fixer", his long lost love.
The story moved at a decent pace, I think I would’ve liked a few more mystery elements with a bit more of the Lady Fixer's process, but there’s only so much story that can be told in 213 pages.
This is the first time I’m reading a book from Cara Maxwell. I found the book to be well researched, I really enjoyed the authors note, providing context about the era and the experience of families of Chinese origin in Regency, London.
Even though this is a standalone and I didn’t feel lost,not having read the other books. I’ll be adding the "Hesitant Husbands" series to my TBR shelf. Being a fan of the multi book series, I’m sure checking in with known characters, will be fun if you’ve read the author's other books.
As far as The Rake Review, multi author concept, this is the first time I am making an attempt to read a series of this sort, looking forward to the coming months, and seeing what other authors have to offer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Second chance
Fake Dating
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Forbidden Love/Class Conflict
sex before 50% – no
On page sex scenes – 3
FMC is virgin – probably not
MMC is virgin – no
Steam level 3
Jilted in January is the first book in a multi author series, The Rake Review. 12 books in total are planned with a new one being released each month.
I enjoy an historical romance where I learn a little bit about the era. Set in 1820 our main male character is the son of a Duke's grandson and a Chinese immigrant. Finding main characters of color in a regency romance is always a treat. Especially when the circumstances of birth are handled with plausibility for the era. while the characters race does play an important role in our story, the romance takes centerstage. After reading the book, I found myself interested in the history of the Limehouse area of London.
The MMC and the FMC have history that dates 10 years prior to this book. A chance meeting found them at an event of the Ton that led to love and an unofficial betrothal. One that was supported by both of their parents. Which was pleasantly surprising, since the FMC is a Duke's daughter. The MMC unceremoniously breaks things off after the FMC has been given the direct cut by some stodgy Grande Dame of the Ton.
Heartbroken, she escapes to New York City where she does a little salon sleuthing as the "Lady Fixer" uncovering petty theft, and tracking down errant second sons draining the family coffers.
She returns to London with two goals in mind, one she wants to continue her role as the Lady Fixer for the Ton and she wants to find a husband because she has a biological clock that's ticking pretty loudly. Especially after witnessing the heartwarming love match of her host/chaperone the Marchioness of Clydon... who is making an encore appearance from the author's "Hesitant Husbands" series.
The past 10 years have found the MMC accumulating more wealth than Midas and his presence is begrudgingly accepted by the Ton. Sure he’s a rake, he’s pursued by matrons and widows alike, but he’s never gotten over Persephone. He’s got a lot of self loathing going on.
When his younger brother is held for ransom, he seeks out the Fixer to help find him. He doesn’t realize until it’s too late that the renown "Fixer" from New York City is actually the "Lady Fixer", his long lost love.
The story moved at a decent pace, I think I would’ve liked a few more mystery elements with a bit more of the Lady Fixer's process, but there’s only so much story that can be told in 213 pages.
This is the first time I’m reading a book from Cara Maxwell. I found the book to be well researched, I really enjoyed the authors note, providing context about the era and the experience of families of Chinese origin in Regency, London.
Even though this is a standalone and I didn’t feel lost,not having read the other books. I’ll be adding the "Hesitant Husbands" series to my TBR shelf. Being a fan of the multi book series, I’m sure checking in with known characters, will be fun if you’ve read the author's other books.
As far as The Rake Review, multi author concept, this is the first time I am making an attempt to read a series of this sort, looking forward to the coming months, and seeing what other authors have to offer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2024
Loving her was always easy, but having faith love can withstand prejudice, certainly is not!
What a wonderful way to start the New Year! An exciting new author for me, coupled with a deliciously steamy new series...heaven!
A do love a hardened rake, especially one who has been running in fear from the intensity of his feelings, whilst secretly dreaming of his first love with equal zeal, passion and longing, since he jilted her. Even more so, if upon reunion, a blazing anger within her, seeded by that crippling sting of rejection, refuses to trump the heady, blazing hot passion and simmering attraction that still so palpably thrums between them, even now ten years later.
I really did enjoy this well written, second chance romance, entangled within a time sensitive, hunting to the ground mystery. As Fixer, Persephone, pushes aside the pain of heartbreak and deep seated longing to help the one man she can't stop thinking about, her first love, Edward, in his quest to secretly find his missing, brother.
With fate at the wheel to lend a hand, can Edward woo his heart's desire a second time around? Will his insecurities rooted in the hateful prejudice and stigma, he is forced to face on a daily basis because of his mixed race, once again threaten to overshadow any possibility of a much coveted happy future and soul-deep reconnection? Or, will the spark of hope that promises once again to tempt him with a glimpse of all-consuming love, finally be strong enough to face life's uncertainties? I really did enjoy finding out.
Edward and Persephone strummed with chemistry, yearning desire and haunting fear. As well as this statisfying confidence and strength that resonated, despite the difficulties lying in their path, their constant stumbles backwards and the refreshing twists and angst bleeding turns, revealed upon their bumpy road to togetherness, that merged so bittersweetly with the touches of heart-pounding, hard to resist - in all its heated glory, sometimes I wanted so badly to shake him - fun that got them there.
Hence, why I so applauded Persephone's ability not to bend over backwards instantly, to make him work to win back her trust, despite so desperately wanting to be so deliciously seduced. Mingled with Edward's regret, fear of future hardships and rejection being their downfall and this heady drive to keep her safe at all costs and so body-tingling near. All added to the charming, close proximity intrigue and sexual tension that exploded with such steam, tender intimacy, haunting insecurities and pining want. I was well as truly invested.
I can't wait to see where this multi-author written series leads next. Especially, if it continues in the same passion fueled, romance led, mystery incorporated vein. Waiting with eager anticipation for the next edition of the Rake Review!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
What a wonderful way to start the New Year! An exciting new author for me, coupled with a deliciously steamy new series...heaven!
A do love a hardened rake, especially one who has been running in fear from the intensity of his feelings, whilst secretly dreaming of his first love with equal zeal, passion and longing, since he jilted her. Even more so, if upon reunion, a blazing anger within her, seeded by that crippling sting of rejection, refuses to trump the heady, blazing hot passion and simmering attraction that still so palpably thrums between them, even now ten years later.
I really did enjoy this well written, second chance romance, entangled within a time sensitive, hunting to the ground mystery. As Fixer, Persephone, pushes aside the pain of heartbreak and deep seated longing to help the one man she can't stop thinking about, her first love, Edward, in his quest to secretly find his missing, brother.
With fate at the wheel to lend a hand, can Edward woo his heart's desire a second time around? Will his insecurities rooted in the hateful prejudice and stigma, he is forced to face on a daily basis because of his mixed race, once again threaten to overshadow any possibility of a much coveted happy future and soul-deep reconnection? Or, will the spark of hope that promises once again to tempt him with a glimpse of all-consuming love, finally be strong enough to face life's uncertainties? I really did enjoy finding out.
Edward and Persephone strummed with chemistry, yearning desire and haunting fear. As well as this statisfying confidence and strength that resonated, despite the difficulties lying in their path, their constant stumbles backwards and the refreshing twists and angst bleeding turns, revealed upon their bumpy road to togetherness, that merged so bittersweetly with the touches of heart-pounding, hard to resist - in all its heated glory, sometimes I wanted so badly to shake him - fun that got them there.
Hence, why I so applauded Persephone's ability not to bend over backwards instantly, to make him work to win back her trust, despite so desperately wanting to be so deliciously seduced. Mingled with Edward's regret, fear of future hardships and rejection being their downfall and this heady drive to keep her safe at all costs and so body-tingling near. All added to the charming, close proximity intrigue and sexual tension that exploded with such steam, tender intimacy, haunting insecurities and pining want. I was well as truly invested.
I can't wait to see where this multi-author written series leads next. Especially, if it continues in the same passion fueled, romance led, mystery incorporated vein. Waiting with eager anticipation for the next edition of the Rake Review!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
January 6, 2024
This is going to be a great read if all the books in this new series are as good as this one. I have read several of Cara’s books and have never been disappointed yet. This is a different kind of regency as our couples both have fathers from society. Persephone is the daughter of a Duke and as such she is used to a life of privilege, wealth and being acceptable to all society events. While Edwards, father is the grandson of a Duke, he has not been welcomed by the ton. His father did the unthinkable and married a Chinese woman! He has had to fight bullying all his life. He lost the only women he loved trying to save her standing and reputation. Now known as a rake and willing to take widows and lonely women any time they want only he never promises anything or risks his heart again. Over the last ten years he has built up his father's shipping empire and is now very wealthy and even more handsome, smart and strong. Women fall at his feet. But now he has a new problem, his younger brother is missing. He has been told a lady from American, called The Fixer can help him. He isn’t sure what Alfred has gotten himself in this time but wants to find him before his parents find out he is missing. He was given a coded description of ‘The Fixer”. Heaven help him when he spots her, life cannot be this unfair and mean. She is the only woman who has always held his heart and who he walked away from ten years ago. Breaking her heart, she hates him! He will need a miracle for her to help him. Persephone can’t believe Edward is back in London, in this ball room and walking Stright to her! He left her then went on to become a rake taking many women. She is beyond shocked. She can’t have any scandal due to her new business of helping other women. As they meet and she finds out what he wants, she can’t help solving the mystery for Alfred even if it means working with Edward. As our couple use each other for their own reason, past memories and feeling resurface. How will they work together, without letting secrets and fears out? Where is Alfred? Will they find him in time? This is a fast paced, somewhat steamy story with lots of twists and turns. Many times, I really wanted to slap Edward upside the head what was he thinking? Persephone was a smart woman but couldn’t just explain her fears and desires. The banter and feeling between our couple are wonderful to watch. Loved both of Edwards parents, his mother is a peach. Be sure not to miss this one as book two will be out in Feb. I can’t wait. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
June 8, 2024
3 Stars
New to me author though I've seen their books around. Their writing was beautiful and polished. It really brought the story to life.
I felt the plot for this one was a bit odd. I wasn't entirely sold on the FMC being some sort of fixer for ladies. It seemed a bit far fetched even though how she described her past successes as such did bring a sort of enlightenment to the general idea. Add in the kidnapping plot about the MMCs younger brother and frankly it was all a little strange.
I found the motives for why the hero pushed for the heroine to help him sweet despite the underlying truth behind it.
I think their last as young lovers was a nice foundation for the story and I loved that the heroine was so outspoken and strong.
The fact the hero was half Chinese was just as fascinating especially because the author did a great job of depicting the sort of prejudice he and his family experienced and what drove him to protect the heroine when they were younger.
If I had to complain about one thing it's be this: the fact the hero is labeled a rake. Which by all the facts was true. However, I didn't appreciate how the book opens with him telling us the reader how he'd usually spend his time at a ball finding a merry widow to enjoy and then telling us about the two currently looking at him suggestively across the room. Then all that is dropped once he realizes the fixer he's looking for was "the love of his life."
Now I'm not usually one of those bothered by the hero being a rake or player before meeting the heroine, or even during a long separation if they're broken up. But it all depends on how it's written and depicted for me. In this case not long after the opening chapters the hero is claiming he still belongs to the heroine in his thoughts and how he loves her so much and has all these years. This was rather annoying to me because I kept wondering how you could feel so deeply and for so long for the woman you claimed was the love of your life but still sleep around even knowing she would likely hear of it at some point?
I eventually got over this annoyance but it definitely was a fumble for me at the beginning.
Despite a little bumpiness regarding the ebb and flow of the story I enjoyed this. I did find it amusing it's labeled as a spicy romance as I know it's subjective to each person but to me it was very tame. Two sexual scenes and only one full love making and they both took place after 70%. So, no. Hardly spicy but it was well written and I enjoyed his Chinese mother's appearances there in the latter half of the story.
I'll definitely look for this author in the future.
New to me author though I've seen their books around. Their writing was beautiful and polished. It really brought the story to life.
I felt the plot for this one was a bit odd. I wasn't entirely sold on the FMC being some sort of fixer for ladies. It seemed a bit far fetched even though how she described her past successes as such did bring a sort of enlightenment to the general idea. Add in the kidnapping plot about the MMCs younger brother and frankly it was all a little strange.
I found the motives for why the hero pushed for the heroine to help him sweet despite the underlying truth behind it.
I think their last as young lovers was a nice foundation for the story and I loved that the heroine was so outspoken and strong.
The fact the hero was half Chinese was just as fascinating especially because the author did a great job of depicting the sort of prejudice he and his family experienced and what drove him to protect the heroine when they were younger.
If I had to complain about one thing it's be this: the fact the hero is labeled a rake. Which by all the facts was true. However, I didn't appreciate how the book opens with him telling us the reader how he'd usually spend his time at a ball finding a merry widow to enjoy and then telling us about the two currently looking at him suggestively across the room. Then all that is dropped once he realizes the fixer he's looking for was "the love of his life."
Now I'm not usually one of those bothered by the hero being a rake or player before meeting the heroine, or even during a long separation if they're broken up. But it all depends on how it's written and depicted for me. In this case not long after the opening chapters the hero is claiming he still belongs to the heroine in his thoughts and how he loves her so much and has all these years. This was rather annoying to me because I kept wondering how you could feel so deeply and for so long for the woman you claimed was the love of your life but still sleep around even knowing she would likely hear of it at some point?
I eventually got over this annoyance but it definitely was a fumble for me at the beginning.
Despite a little bumpiness regarding the ebb and flow of the story I enjoyed this. I did find it amusing it's labeled as a spicy romance as I know it's subjective to each person but to me it was very tame. Two sexual scenes and only one full love making and they both took place after 70%. So, no. Hardly spicy but it was well written and I enjoyed his Chinese mother's appearances there in the latter half of the story.
I'll definitely look for this author in the future.
January 1, 2024
Well this was a fun way to ring in the New Year, enjoying the story of Persephone and Edward. As the first book in the Rake Review series, Cara Maxwell sets up the rest of the year with a promising start. I love a non-traditional rake and as the son to a Chinese mother and British father, Edward has faced prejudices from the ton on a daily basis. And yet Edward has earned himself a reputation with widows and lonely women as someone they can call on to take care of them. He’s undeniably handsome, tall like his father, and extremely fit due to his pugilist regimen that began when he needed to know how to fight as a young boy. Edward has not always been a rake, but it’s been ten years since he jilted his secretly betrothed and he’s done everything in his power to forget about her.
Persephone was a breath of fresh air. She is the daughter of a duke but has started her own business helping women, she has lived in America for the past ten years, but now desires to marry and have children. I love it when a heroine knows who she is and what she wants.
The first meeting between Edward and Persephone is priceless and their story slowly unfolds over the first half of the book as they come together to mutually help one another. Edward needs help locating his ransomed brother and Persephone needs Edward’s help making the men of the ton notice her as a desirable female of the marrying kind. It’s a bit of a slow burn learning why their relationship didn’t work out and although it’s eventually discussed, I wished that I knew more of the reasons initially. The mystery aspect is fun and I could see Alfred getting his own book (or bonus scene?)—there’s definitely still more story there and more personality to uncover with him. I would’ve loved to see more time with Edward and Persephone once they got their HEA as well. They seem like the kind of couple that would be really thoughtful and sweet towards each other and although the epilogue is fantastic, it came just a little too quickly for me (one of the rare cases where I’d love to have more to read!). I also have to say that although there is a nod to the only one bed trope (and it’s a good one!), this book did a great job of avoiding the stereotypical plot traps. There are approximately two steamy scenes beginning around 60% that solidified the romance and helped drive the narrative. I look forward to reading more from Cara Maxwell in the future and loved that this book contained characters tied to some of her other books that I hope to read. I received an advanced copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Persephone was a breath of fresh air. She is the daughter of a duke but has started her own business helping women, she has lived in America for the past ten years, but now desires to marry and have children. I love it when a heroine knows who she is and what she wants.
The first meeting between Edward and Persephone is priceless and their story slowly unfolds over the first half of the book as they come together to mutually help one another. Edward needs help locating his ransomed brother and Persephone needs Edward’s help making the men of the ton notice her as a desirable female of the marrying kind. It’s a bit of a slow burn learning why their relationship didn’t work out and although it’s eventually discussed, I wished that I knew more of the reasons initially. The mystery aspect is fun and I could see Alfred getting his own book (or bonus scene?)—there’s definitely still more story there and more personality to uncover with him. I would’ve loved to see more time with Edward and Persephone once they got their HEA as well. They seem like the kind of couple that would be really thoughtful and sweet towards each other and although the epilogue is fantastic, it came just a little too quickly for me (one of the rare cases where I’d love to have more to read!). I also have to say that although there is a nod to the only one bed trope (and it’s a good one!), this book did a great job of avoiding the stereotypical plot traps. There are approximately two steamy scenes beginning around 60% that solidified the romance and helped drive the narrative. I look forward to reading more from Cara Maxwell in the future and loved that this book contained characters tied to some of her other books that I hope to read. I received an advanced copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 24, 2024
The Rake Review is a new multi-author series set in Regency England. The Brazen Belle writes a gossip column about those who stand out in society including their antics and scandals, their comings and goings. Cara Mitchell has penned “Jilted in January” to start this series. I like Cara Mitchell’s work, she is usually on the top of her game. I was excited when I read the synopsis of this book, I liked the plot explanation and the characters sounded interesting. However, this story wasn’t as good as it could be. Edward Johns and Persephone were getting reacquainted after a ten year split. Ten years was definitely way too long. To approach Persephone, Edward used Persephone’s deductive prowess to aid him in searching for his wayward brother. In this story, once they were reacquainted, both main characters spent a lot of time in their own heads, going over the past, remembering the highs and lows of their initial relationship, and both trying to decide their current feelings and whether to act on them. Edward was constantly fearful of Persephone’s place in society and the act of getting cut by her peers because of their relationship and his race. Edward is a half Chinese man, poor ten years prior with no respect from the ton, he amassed a fortune in the shipping industry, has earned some respect and is considered a rake with women. Persephone was the daughter of a duke. Persephone desired marriage and a family and to continue with her business, solving the problems of society women. Even though Persephone was still angry with Edward for dumping her, she agreed to help decipher the clues to his brother’s whereabouts and to enter into a fake courtship. to attract marriageable gentlemen. What these two didn’t have was an honest to goodness, heart to heart conversation. I wanted Persephone to speak up to Edward and be bold with him. This story needed more romance and more happiness. Edward and Persephone had grown and changed a lot in ten years, their place in life was different yet they were too invested in the past when the future beckoned. The author’s inclusion of the information on Chinese immigration, settlements around London, and the notes on the (Chinese/Mandarin) language Edward spoke was a great idea although I think it should be before the beginning of the story instead of the end. This would allow the reader to be aware of the information while reading the story. I do recommend this start to a new series that is published once a month and look forward to more of the Rake Review series.
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