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Midnight Meetings #2
The Lady Meets Her Match
LOCATING HER IS ONLY HALF THE BATTLE
Cyrus Ryland didn't become England's wealthiest bachelor by being a pushover, but the mysterious beauty he discovers sneaking around at his grand ball enflames his curiosity. When the clock chimes midnight and she's nowhere to be found, Cyrus vows to scour all of London to uncover who she is. Little does he know that not only does Claire Mayhew not want to be found, but she wants nothing to do with him at all...
Cyrus Ryland didn't become England's wealthiest bachelor by being a pushover, but the mysterious beauty he discovers sneaking around at his grand ball enflames his curiosity. When the clock chimes midnight and she's nowhere to be found, Cyrus vows to scour all of London to uncover who she is. Little does he know that not only does Claire Mayhew not want to be found, but she wants nothing to do with him at all...
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2015
72 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
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Gina Conkle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
September 10, 2016
I had to crank up the snark-o-meter for this one. I gave it at D at AAR.
If AAR had a Special Titles Listing for “Books with no discernible plot in which 90% of the story is basically the protagonists lusting after each other”, then The Lady Meets Her Match would most certainly be on it. This is the second book in Ms. Conkle’s series of Georgian-set historical romances which are very loosely based on classic fairy tales. I listened to and reviewed the audiobook version of the previous book Meet the Earl at Midnight, and while I wasn’t bowled over by the story, the audio had the considerable benefit of an excellent performance by narrator Marian Hussey.
With no such enhancement to distract my attention, the weaknesses in the storytelling, characterisation and writing in The Lady Meets Her Match are very apparent, and were such that I was frequently tempted to set the book aside and read something else.
Normally when I write a review, I start out by giving a brief summary of the plot, trying very hard to avoid giving away important plot-points or spoilers. We have a general rule here that anything in the publisher’s blurb or the first one hundred pages is fair game, but after that we keep plot details fairly vague. The problem with this book is that when I came to write a summary of the story, I realised I wouldn’t be able to stick to that rule because between the first chapter and the 85% mark there is no plot to speak of.
The opening is loosely based on the Cinderella story, as the heroine, Claire Mayhew, sneaks into the hero’s study at a masked ball in order to copy his signature so she can later fraudulently append it to the lease of the shop she wants to obtain. Naturally, he – Cyrus Ryland, a very wealthy self-made business man – discovers her, although not until after she’s copied the signature. The pair flirt, the mental lusting commences, he dances with her (and we get a second-by-second account of what brushes against what and what heats up where that sounds more like a set of instructions from IKEA than anything vaguely sexy) – but of course when midnight strikes and it’s time for the unmasking, she legs it, leaving behind a worn shoe.
All that happens in the first couple of chapters, so then we’ve got Cyrus looking for her, finding her, discovering her fraudulent intent but forgiving her anyway… and all the while there is much more mental lusting going on with a bit of groping thrown in. There’s a bit of a kerfuffle at a lunch party when the food items Claire had supplied are found to have been dusted in salt and not sugar, and this later ties into the minuscule plot-thread in which it seems that someone is out to send Cyrus a message.
This person has a grudge to settle and debts he can’t afford to pay, so naturally, marrying his daughter to a wealthy “cit” is the perfect solution to his problems. Cyrus is warned of this likely course of events and decides to tell Claire what’s going on so she won’t get upset when he pretends to be uninterested in her in order to protect her. Excellent – I thought – there’s no time for a Big Misunderstanding anyway, because the book’s nearly finished. Oh, how wrong I was. Because Cyrus, instead of using the three hours he had that morning between getting out of Claire’s bed and going home decided instead to spend them shagging and never said a word. What a complete plonker.
Both Claire and Cyrus had the potential to be interesting characters, but never got as far as even the two dimensional. She appeared in the previous book as the rather mysterious housekeeper to the reclusive Earl of Greenwich. Late in that story, we discovered that she had in fact been seduced by his brother and abandoned because the daughter of a land steward was not a suitable marriage prospect for the heir to an earldom. Shortly after that she leaves the earl’s employ in order to pursue an independent life…as the owner of a London coffee shop. Well, there’s an anti-climax if ever there was one. Given her enigmatic nature in the previous book, I’d expected her to be heading off to proclaim her true identity as the bastard of French royalty, or for adventure on the high seas – not to run a shop!
I’ve often said that I rather enjoy books in which nothing much happens other than two people falling in love. I don’t need spy capers or other sorts of adventure yarns to keep me interested in a book when the author keeps the romance front and centre and makes the story one about a developing relationship. The problem with The Lady Meets Her Match is that while it’s true that not much happens, there is also no sense of getting to know the central characters and no relationship development. They meet. They lust after each other. They part. They meet again. They lust after each other some more. They part. They meet again…you get the picture. The scenes in which they explore that attraction short of having full-on sex were so interminable I pretty much skim-read them, and by the time the couple had sex, I’d had enough of the author continually telling me about all the different parts of the hero that “clenched” in anticipation (at one point, I thought the poor guy wouldn’t make it to the end of the book without medical attention) or the heroine’s underwear fetish. Seriously – whether she was wearing cotton or silk, she was always aware of the feeling of her undergarments against her skin when she started feeling horny, especially when they rubbed against her “there”. I couldn’t help wondering if they were a size too small, given the number of wedgies she seemed to have to contend with.
I also had a huge issue with the number of Americanisms that appeared in the story, one of which was completely unforgiveable. There is no such place as “midtown” in London. I’m a Londoner born and bred and that place does not exist. We have the West End and the City – and reading the place and street names, Claire’s coffee shop is obviously in the City of London. It’s easy to check, yet the word “midtown” is used constantly – my Kindle tells me of 41 uses of “midtown”, but there were “midtowners” and other similar expressions, too. It’s easy to look up on the internet and I have no doubt there would be plenty of fellow authors able to advise, so there is absolutely no excuse for such a howler. I know that my frustration over the use of non-idiomatic English expressions is something I refer to a lot in my reviews, but I find it incredible that an author – no matter their nationality – setting their story in my country wouldn’t bother to find out the correct terminology for certain things. Not only that – it’s insulting. If ever I were to write a book set in Washington D.C, (and I won’t, so don’t worry!) I would go out of my way to make sure I got those things right.
There were erroneous word choices in the copy I read – something was described as being “eminent” instead of “imminent”, for example. Had the story and characters been more engaging, perhaps these errors would have been less noticeable, although I doubt it given their frequency.
It will come as no surprise that I’m going to suggest there are better things to do with your time and hard-earned cash than read The Lady Meets Her Match.
If AAR had a Special Titles Listing for “Books with no discernible plot in which 90% of the story is basically the protagonists lusting after each other”, then The Lady Meets Her Match would most certainly be on it. This is the second book in Ms. Conkle’s series of Georgian-set historical romances which are very loosely based on classic fairy tales. I listened to and reviewed the audiobook version of the previous book Meet the Earl at Midnight, and while I wasn’t bowled over by the story, the audio had the considerable benefit of an excellent performance by narrator Marian Hussey.
With no such enhancement to distract my attention, the weaknesses in the storytelling, characterisation and writing in The Lady Meets Her Match are very apparent, and were such that I was frequently tempted to set the book aside and read something else.
Normally when I write a review, I start out by giving a brief summary of the plot, trying very hard to avoid giving away important plot-points or spoilers. We have a general rule here that anything in the publisher’s blurb or the first one hundred pages is fair game, but after that we keep plot details fairly vague. The problem with this book is that when I came to write a summary of the story, I realised I wouldn’t be able to stick to that rule because between the first chapter and the 85% mark there is no plot to speak of.
The opening is loosely based on the Cinderella story, as the heroine, Claire Mayhew, sneaks into the hero’s study at a masked ball in order to copy his signature so she can later fraudulently append it to the lease of the shop she wants to obtain. Naturally, he – Cyrus Ryland, a very wealthy self-made business man – discovers her, although not until after she’s copied the signature. The pair flirt, the mental lusting commences, he dances with her (and we get a second-by-second account of what brushes against what and what heats up where that sounds more like a set of instructions from IKEA than anything vaguely sexy) – but of course when midnight strikes and it’s time for the unmasking, she legs it, leaving behind a worn shoe.
All that happens in the first couple of chapters, so then we’ve got Cyrus looking for her, finding her, discovering her fraudulent intent but forgiving her anyway… and all the while there is much more mental lusting going on with a bit of groping thrown in. There’s a bit of a kerfuffle at a lunch party when the food items Claire had supplied are found to have been dusted in salt and not sugar, and this later ties into the minuscule plot-thread in which it seems that someone is out to send Cyrus a message.
This person has a grudge to settle and debts he can’t afford to pay, so naturally, marrying his daughter to a wealthy “cit” is the perfect solution to his problems. Cyrus is warned of this likely course of events and decides to tell Claire what’s going on so she won’t get upset when he pretends to be uninterested in her in order to protect her. Excellent – I thought – there’s no time for a Big Misunderstanding anyway, because the book’s nearly finished. Oh, how wrong I was. Because Cyrus, instead of using the three hours he had that morning between getting out of Claire’s bed and going home decided instead to spend them shagging and never said a word. What a complete plonker.
Both Claire and Cyrus had the potential to be interesting characters, but never got as far as even the two dimensional. She appeared in the previous book as the rather mysterious housekeeper to the reclusive Earl of Greenwich. Late in that story, we discovered that she had in fact been seduced by his brother and abandoned because the daughter of a land steward was not a suitable marriage prospect for the heir to an earldom. Shortly after that she leaves the earl’s employ in order to pursue an independent life…as the owner of a London coffee shop. Well, there’s an anti-climax if ever there was one. Given her enigmatic nature in the previous book, I’d expected her to be heading off to proclaim her true identity as the bastard of French royalty, or for adventure on the high seas – not to run a shop!
I’ve often said that I rather enjoy books in which nothing much happens other than two people falling in love. I don’t need spy capers or other sorts of adventure yarns to keep me interested in a book when the author keeps the romance front and centre and makes the story one about a developing relationship. The problem with The Lady Meets Her Match is that while it’s true that not much happens, there is also no sense of getting to know the central characters and no relationship development. They meet. They lust after each other. They part. They meet again. They lust after each other some more. They part. They meet again…you get the picture. The scenes in which they explore that attraction short of having full-on sex were so interminable I pretty much skim-read them, and by the time the couple had sex, I’d had enough of the author continually telling me about all the different parts of the hero that “clenched” in anticipation (at one point, I thought the poor guy wouldn’t make it to the end of the book without medical attention) or the heroine’s underwear fetish. Seriously – whether she was wearing cotton or silk, she was always aware of the feeling of her undergarments against her skin when she started feeling horny, especially when they rubbed against her “there”. I couldn’t help wondering if they were a size too small, given the number of wedgies she seemed to have to contend with.
I also had a huge issue with the number of Americanisms that appeared in the story, one of which was completely unforgiveable. There is no such place as “midtown” in London. I’m a Londoner born and bred and that place does not exist. We have the West End and the City – and reading the place and street names, Claire’s coffee shop is obviously in the City of London. It’s easy to check, yet the word “midtown” is used constantly – my Kindle tells me of 41 uses of “midtown”, but there were “midtowners” and other similar expressions, too. It’s easy to look up on the internet and I have no doubt there would be plenty of fellow authors able to advise, so there is absolutely no excuse for such a howler. I know that my frustration over the use of non-idiomatic English expressions is something I refer to a lot in my reviews, but I find it incredible that an author – no matter their nationality – setting their story in my country wouldn’t bother to find out the correct terminology for certain things. Not only that – it’s insulting. If ever I were to write a book set in Washington D.C, (and I won’t, so don’t worry!) I would go out of my way to make sure I got those things right.
There were erroneous word choices in the copy I read – something was described as being “eminent” instead of “imminent”, for example. Had the story and characters been more engaging, perhaps these errors would have been less noticeable, although I doubt it given their frequency.
It will come as no surprise that I’m going to suggest there are better things to do with your time and hard-earned cash than read The Lady Meets Her Match.
April 1, 2015
Originally posted
HERE
.
The Lady Meets Her Match isn’t *quite* the perfect historical romance, but it surprised me so much with its original plot, interesting characters and believable setting (Georgian, not Regency or Victorian) that I couldn’t put it down. It has the world’s trashiest and most misleading packaging, and the blurb hardly tells you the first thing about what a complex story it is.
Book two in a series, and I couldn’t tell at all. It is a total standalone read, but I’m definitely interested in investigating the author’s other books now.
First, I have to address this: the cover. It has nothing to do with the characters. Claire is supposed to have astonishing white-blonde hair that nobody forgets because it’s so rare. Cyrus is supposed to be a man from the mid-1700s (and frighteningly big). That means long hair tied back, not modern-day Captain America! I was given the impression this was going to be a silly, flimsy read, and it turned out to be a serious and slightly dark story set in London’s less than rich and elegant areas.
The Cinderella aspect of the story is dealt with in the first chapter or two, and then there is much more going on. The world of Georgian London was captured beautifully, and the author has well and truly done her research (but why they were cooking with apples that weren’t invented for another century – and in Australia at that! – I do not know).
I was glued to this book, and especially the two lead characters. I loved that Cyrus’ size was considered a bad, not a good thing. That the attitudes from the aristocracy were more in line with the past. No anachronistic nonsense of 18th century women liking the same physical characteristics women tend to today.
I liked that the heroine was beautiful and independent, but that this brought her other issues.
I loved that the hero had period-appropriate attitudes to gender differences. That the conflict began because he wasn’t prepared to rent to a woman running her own business. I liked that the problems they faced were from the times, not modern-day issues.
I LOVED that they actually took the time to fall in love. I believed it.
However, one of my absolute favourite things was the attitude to women and the connections between the female characters:
I wish all romance authors could write like this instead of pitting women against each other!
My criticism of the book is that the author makes a lot of errors with her language. It’s not even that she uses American terminology (there is a little bit of that), but that she makes the common mistake of assuming working class people from England speak the same way working class people in America do. The odd grammar (the lack of adverbs, for example) and expressions had me thinking of Tennessee, not rural Britain!
It was distracting because everything else was so good. This is a problem I have with another favourite author: Madeline Hunter. In fact, Gina Conkle’s writing isn’t the same, but I like both their books for the same reasons.
I just really, really enjoyed this book. The only thing that could have made it a better read for me would be if someone with a better grasp of British English had done some proofreading and made some adjustments.
Highly recommended.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
The Lady Meets Her Match isn’t *quite* the perfect historical romance, but it surprised me so much with its original plot, interesting characters and believable setting (Georgian, not Regency or Victorian) that I couldn’t put it down. It has the world’s trashiest and most misleading packaging, and the blurb hardly tells you the first thing about what a complex story it is.
Book two in a series, and I couldn’t tell at all. It is a total standalone read, but I’m definitely interested in investigating the author’s other books now.
First, I have to address this: the cover. It has nothing to do with the characters. Claire is supposed to have astonishing white-blonde hair that nobody forgets because it’s so rare. Cyrus is supposed to be a man from the mid-1700s (and frighteningly big). That means long hair tied back, not modern-day Captain America! I was given the impression this was going to be a silly, flimsy read, and it turned out to be a serious and slightly dark story set in London’s less than rich and elegant areas.
The Cinderella aspect of the story is dealt with in the first chapter or two, and then there is much more going on. The world of Georgian London was captured beautifully, and the author has well and truly done her research (but why they were cooking with apples that weren’t invented for another century – and in Australia at that! – I do not know).
I was glued to this book, and especially the two lead characters. I loved that Cyrus’ size was considered a bad, not a good thing. That the attitudes from the aristocracy were more in line with the past. No anachronistic nonsense of 18th century women liking the same physical characteristics women tend to today.
I liked that the heroine was beautiful and independent, but that this brought her other issues.
I loved that the hero had period-appropriate attitudes to gender differences. That the conflict began because he wasn’t prepared to rent to a woman running her own business. I liked that the problems they faced were from the times, not modern-day issues.
I LOVED that they actually took the time to fall in love. I believed it.
However, one of my absolute favourite things was the attitude to women and the connections between the female characters:
The best surprise from making her way in London was discovering the friendships of women.
I wish all romance authors could write like this instead of pitting women against each other!
My criticism of the book is that the author makes a lot of errors with her language. It’s not even that she uses American terminology (there is a little bit of that), but that she makes the common mistake of assuming working class people from England speak the same way working class people in America do. The odd grammar (the lack of adverbs, for example) and expressions had me thinking of Tennessee, not rural Britain!
It was distracting because everything else was so good. This is a problem I have with another favourite author: Madeline Hunter. In fact, Gina Conkle’s writing isn’t the same, but I like both their books for the same reasons.
I just really, really enjoyed this book. The only thing that could have made it a better read for me would be if someone with a better grasp of British English had done some proofreading and made some adjustments.
Highly recommended.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
December 8, 2021
3.5 stars. Claire and Cyrus. A Cinderella story. Good chemistry between them. This story is a nice one to read when one is looking for a story about regular folks. Cyrus is a very rich bachelor and Claire is on her way to becoming a business woman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2015
4.5 Blossoms--Originally Posted at addictofromance.com
Summary
Claire, needs to find a way to make her own way as a business woman, where there is disapproval everywhere she goes. She is on the hunt, she needs to attend a ball, and the host, Cyrus Ryland, the most richest and renown bachelor in all of London. So she goes searching for something of his, something that will help gain her what she needs for her coffee and pastry shop. But then she runs across the infamous Cyrys Ryland himself, they engage on some harmless flirtation and dance, but at midnight when there is the unmasking, Claire knows he can never know her true identity and flees when a opportuity arises. Cyrus must find Claire, the mysterious woman who made him feel bright and alive with excitement, a woman that almost had him kissing her on the dance floor in front of all of London society, all he has left of her is a worn shoe and a cloak of hers. But he is driven to find her, but what he doesn’t know is that she doesn’t want to be found. Claire has worked hard to make a life for herself, a life above being a servant, and having her own establishment, but when Cyrus finds her again, she doesn’t know if she can hide her true feelings, or the desire she feels for him, knowing she could never have a future with him, or can she dare trust the man who has stolen her heart with his slow seduction and tender touches, and his willingness to share every part of himself…
The Hero
Cyrus Ryland, may be a rich bachelor, looking for one day his sister to make a match among the Ton. But what most don’t know is that he was once a lowly farmer and pugilist. But it took years of hard work to get to successful businessman he is now. Cyrus is driven, dedicated and loyal. Cyrus is a man who goes after what he desires, whatever that may be. When he first meets Claire, he is enthralled by her beauty, her wit, and the playful relationship they start to have…and when she leaves abruptly he goes on the hunt for his prey. Cyrus was a great hero, and there is more to him than meets the eye. At first all you see is a rich bachelor, who likes his bachelorhood just fine. But you also start to see how he so much more, that he is dedicated to supporting his family, and dedicating everything he has to them. How he is driven because he has had to be, because he feels as if he has failed his family when he was younger. He blames himself for past mistakes, you see the gentle and kind man that he is, that he is starved for love and affection, but hides it well beneath his tough exterior.
The Heroine
Claire, is a woman who once fell in love when she was younger, but was used and she came to London, for a fresh start, to start her own business, and to be in charge of her own future without a man. She is compassionate and caring, she has a heart of gold, her co workers, came from the streets, prostitutes and thiefs…but she offered them a better way of living, an honest way. When Claire finds herself in dire straits, she must take something from Cyrus, and she never imagined that she would see him again, or that he would see at the core of who she is. Claire was a delightful heroine, and I loved her character, and she made the story captivating. She is just as driven as our hero is, trying to make her own way, she is passionate and has this inner strength that is formidable and as strong as the tide of the oceans. She doesn’t let what anyone else say or think to determine how she views herself and the way she lives her life. She was refreshing and lively, and had a will of iron.
Plot and Story Line
The Lady Meets Her Match is the second book in the series, and this is my first book from this author and I am impressed. At the beginning I had a challenging time to get into it, and I wondered if this would have to be put down before I finished it, but well I definitely got into it and it caught my attention. It took about 50 pages, but once I reached that point, I just couldn’t put this one down. This is a fairy tale retelling, but one that I fell in love with, and had a different feel to it. It is based on the story of Cinderella, but what a story this turned out to be. At the beginning, it is very obvious it is based on Cinderella. We have that special evening, a masked ball, and two people meet and the heroine leaves behind her slipper. Then Cyrus…The prince of the story, chases after his Cinderella. But he has met his match with Claire at the helm, she is no ordinary Cinderella. He is shocked to discover that she is one of his business tenants, she pays rents to him every month, and he can’t resist her. I loved seeing claire stand on her own two feet with Cyrus, she is committed to living her own life, despite the desire she feels for Cyrus. At first she isn’t too welcoming of his attentions, but then you see her slowly soften toward him, and I loved the courting dancing they have going on, neither is good about giving in, both stubborn and strong-willed, but both in need of someone to come home to. You see the loneliness they both feel, and I loved seeing these two iron willed people, give in to what they are feeling and trust in where their relationship can lead. I was very impressed with the flow of the story, how it weaved and blended together in ways I couldn’t imagine, various aspects formed into a story that was heartwarming and engaging.
The Cover
I adored this cover, it has a flirty and fun feel to it. I love Claire’s gown, and she is just as the author describes her in the story. The hero…now he looks good enough to eat, the half-open look, with those gorgeous locks of hair–I wish I could run my fingers through it, and that facial expression, as if he can win any game or capture any prey he is on the search for….I would mind being his Cinderella.
Overall View
The Lady Meets Her Match is an enchanting story, with a fairy tale them, that captures your attention, that weaves a tapestry of endearing characters, deep emotion entrenched on every page, a story guaranteed to steal your heart, take your breath away, and enthrall you….a love story to remember!! SPLENDID!!
Summary
Claire, needs to find a way to make her own way as a business woman, where there is disapproval everywhere she goes. She is on the hunt, she needs to attend a ball, and the host, Cyrus Ryland, the most richest and renown bachelor in all of London. So she goes searching for something of his, something that will help gain her what she needs for her coffee and pastry shop. But then she runs across the infamous Cyrys Ryland himself, they engage on some harmless flirtation and dance, but at midnight when there is the unmasking, Claire knows he can never know her true identity and flees when a opportuity arises. Cyrus must find Claire, the mysterious woman who made him feel bright and alive with excitement, a woman that almost had him kissing her on the dance floor in front of all of London society, all he has left of her is a worn shoe and a cloak of hers. But he is driven to find her, but what he doesn’t know is that she doesn’t want to be found. Claire has worked hard to make a life for herself, a life above being a servant, and having her own establishment, but when Cyrus finds her again, she doesn’t know if she can hide her true feelings, or the desire she feels for him, knowing she could never have a future with him, or can she dare trust the man who has stolen her heart with his slow seduction and tender touches, and his willingness to share every part of himself…
The Hero
Cyrus Ryland, may be a rich bachelor, looking for one day his sister to make a match among the Ton. But what most don’t know is that he was once a lowly farmer and pugilist. But it took years of hard work to get to successful businessman he is now. Cyrus is driven, dedicated and loyal. Cyrus is a man who goes after what he desires, whatever that may be. When he first meets Claire, he is enthralled by her beauty, her wit, and the playful relationship they start to have…and when she leaves abruptly he goes on the hunt for his prey. Cyrus was a great hero, and there is more to him than meets the eye. At first all you see is a rich bachelor, who likes his bachelorhood just fine. But you also start to see how he so much more, that he is dedicated to supporting his family, and dedicating everything he has to them. How he is driven because he has had to be, because he feels as if he has failed his family when he was younger. He blames himself for past mistakes, you see the gentle and kind man that he is, that he is starved for love and affection, but hides it well beneath his tough exterior.
The Heroine
Claire, is a woman who once fell in love when she was younger, but was used and she came to London, for a fresh start, to start her own business, and to be in charge of her own future without a man. She is compassionate and caring, she has a heart of gold, her co workers, came from the streets, prostitutes and thiefs…but she offered them a better way of living, an honest way. When Claire finds herself in dire straits, she must take something from Cyrus, and she never imagined that she would see him again, or that he would see at the core of who she is. Claire was a delightful heroine, and I loved her character, and she made the story captivating. She is just as driven as our hero is, trying to make her own way, she is passionate and has this inner strength that is formidable and as strong as the tide of the oceans. She doesn’t let what anyone else say or think to determine how she views herself and the way she lives her life. She was refreshing and lively, and had a will of iron.
Plot and Story Line
The Lady Meets Her Match is the second book in the series, and this is my first book from this author and I am impressed. At the beginning I had a challenging time to get into it, and I wondered if this would have to be put down before I finished it, but well I definitely got into it and it caught my attention. It took about 50 pages, but once I reached that point, I just couldn’t put this one down. This is a fairy tale retelling, but one that I fell in love with, and had a different feel to it. It is based on the story of Cinderella, but what a story this turned out to be. At the beginning, it is very obvious it is based on Cinderella. We have that special evening, a masked ball, and two people meet and the heroine leaves behind her slipper. Then Cyrus…The prince of the story, chases after his Cinderella. But he has met his match with Claire at the helm, she is no ordinary Cinderella. He is shocked to discover that she is one of his business tenants, she pays rents to him every month, and he can’t resist her. I loved seeing claire stand on her own two feet with Cyrus, she is committed to living her own life, despite the desire she feels for Cyrus. At first she isn’t too welcoming of his attentions, but then you see her slowly soften toward him, and I loved the courting dancing they have going on, neither is good about giving in, both stubborn and strong-willed, but both in need of someone to come home to. You see the loneliness they both feel, and I loved seeing these two iron willed people, give in to what they are feeling and trust in where their relationship can lead. I was very impressed with the flow of the story, how it weaved and blended together in ways I couldn’t imagine, various aspects formed into a story that was heartwarming and engaging.
The Cover
I adored this cover, it has a flirty and fun feel to it. I love Claire’s gown, and she is just as the author describes her in the story. The hero…now he looks good enough to eat, the half-open look, with those gorgeous locks of hair–I wish I could run my fingers through it, and that facial expression, as if he can win any game or capture any prey he is on the search for….I would mind being his Cinderella.
Overall View
The Lady Meets Her Match is an enchanting story, with a fairy tale them, that captures your attention, that weaves a tapestry of endearing characters, deep emotion entrenched on every page, a story guaranteed to steal your heart, take your breath away, and enthrall you….a love story to remember!! SPLENDID!!
December 7, 2017
A Cinderella tale. I have to love those! And hey, not one of them is a lord or a lady!
Claire needs something and she has to get it, and into the Ball she sneaks. She knew what she wanted and that was not easy in this age. I admired her, and yes she has made her share of mistakes too.
Cyrus is all about money and business. Making a better life for his sister and nephews. He is a good guy, even if he has some silly ideas. But hey that is why needs to meet a strong woman to put him straight.
It takes place in Georgian England, which is nice for a strange. Just a little vibe to make it different.
Anyway, they meet, he can not forget her (and she does something so not right), and then the road there is long and filled with tension, romance and some danger.
Narrator Marian Hussey
I liker her voice and how she played the characters. It was great listening too.
Claire needs something and she has to get it, and into the Ball she sneaks. She knew what she wanted and that was not easy in this age. I admired her, and yes she has made her share of mistakes too.
Cyrus is all about money and business. Making a better life for his sister and nephews. He is a good guy, even if he has some silly ideas. But hey that is why needs to meet a strong woman to put him straight.
It takes place in Georgian England, which is nice for a strange. Just a little vibe to make it different.
Anyway, they meet, he can not forget her (and she does something so not right), and then the road there is long and filled with tension, romance and some danger.
Narrator Marian Hussey
I liker her voice and how she played the characters. It was great listening too.
March 4, 2015
Was a good book it kept me on my toes when i thought i had it figured out it would change. Had a really good view on a woman trying to make her own way in an era that you had to have a man back you for everything.
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April 13, 2015
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book... for more, visit Punya Reviews...
Gina Conkle’s historical romance series, Midnight Meetings, is based on little twists on well-known fairytales. And they’re well-written too, as I’ve come to expect from her in the past years. I do love a good story with a little Cinderella-twist and #2, The Lady Meets Her Match, is one those books that’d leave you craving for more. I had a grand time throughout!
Book 1, Meet the Earl at Midnight, was based on the long cherished tale of the Beauty and the Beast. The Beast being “The Greenwich Recluse”, “the Enigma Earl”... Edward, the Earl of Greenwich. Nerd-extraordinaire, he grew up as the spare, rather than the heir so he had other plans for his life. He wanted to be an explorer, his interest being in anything scientific, most especially the botany-kind. It all changed when his elder brother, Jonathan, died suddenly, leaving him the heir instead. With that Edward’s life’s plan was inevitably altered. Edward didn’t like mingling with people, so socializing is his least favorite thing to do. But there’s a twist there too. On a long ago voyage to some faraway country, he was attacked. Though he barely escaped alive, a side of his face was scarred forever. That was another reason why Edward chose to become a recluse. Now, he has a plan; another voyage to be precise. But, due to his circumstances, he can’t just up and leave anymore. What if he doesn’t return? The Earldom needs to be secured with an heir, and soon. That is where Lydia comes in. She was ‘given’ to Edward by her slimy stepfather who had a huge debt. Edward was looking for a fast escape route in the form of a fast marriage because his ship sails soon and he had no time for courting any debutante. In fact, he never had any interest in those debutantes! Though Lydia is nowhere near the nobility Edward’s perfectionist mother would endorse, he had no other choice. After seeing Lydia for the first time, he doesn’t want any other choice. Edward’s completely taken with her and only Lydia will do as his wife, to much dismay and disgruntlement of the dowager.
There are some conflict along the way since Edward was way too adamant (for my and Lydia’s liking) to leave for this voyage, from where there’s every possibility that he might not return. He was going to leave Lydia alone with a child, so I was very sympathetic towards her plight. And God, he tried his best to tamp down any attraction they might’ve shared, seeing it only as a hindrance to his plans. But as fate would have it, somewhere along the way, they fell in love nevertheless. Lydia wasn’t hiding it, but she was helpless because of Edward’s obstinacy. Her desperation led her to do something so that Edward can’t leave. It leads to the ultimate misunderstanding… In the later parts of the story, he got to strew in the misery of his own making too. He just needed to be reminded what he’ll be missing if he leaves Lydia here all alone; a chance of finding true happiness.
Now, book 1 doesn’t really connect book 2 but for the fact that we met the H, Cyrus and h, Claire in it. Claire was, at that time, a housekeeper to Greenwich Park. She is young and very beautiful, and for that, came under Lydia’s scrutiny more than once because she was jealous. Edward was way too polite and rather affectionate of her than anyone should be of their housekeeper. Not to worry since there was nothing untoward in that relationship. It was resolved soon, with Lydia finding a friend in Claire. It’s then, we’re hinted at her having a ‘past’ of sort, without any further explanation. Cyrus, on the other hand, was a mysterious and distant figure that I didn’t think until the last moment, would be getting his own book... with Claire.
In book 2 we find that Claire has already left Greenwich Park in search of a better life. Her independent streak brought her to London with a hope to make an honest, if laborious, living. She has been trying open up a coffee shop, yet had been unsuccessful, actually more rebuffed from the landlord than unsuccessful in business. She won’t be given the proprietorship because she’s a woman. Unfortunately, the Man of Commerce, the rich and famous, Cyrus Ryland owns her shop (the entire portion of that area), who doesn’t seem to have any big illusions about a woman’s capabilities when it comes to business, or so his man would tell Claire. But she can’t just stand back and watch her dreams die an immature death. This is her only way of an honest living, so Claire plans on something drastic, and pretty dangerous by any measure. She only needed a signature of Mr. Ryland to show his approval, which she’s going to obtain somehow.
And the Cinderella was born. That night, a masked ball was being held at the Ryland House. Claire knew the housekeeper, who agreed on helping her. With the help of her French modiste friend, Juliette, she is able to manage a pretty gown to show off her best aspects too. All she has to do is to be brave, march in (or snick in whatever suits the occasion), go to his library, make a copy of his signature and leave through the back entrance.
Would that things were as simple as it sounded.
Claire gets caught by none other than the man himself, who was having a horrible time with people he can barely tolerate and decided to escape to have a moment all to himself. But she had her mask on, so Cyrus couldn’t identify her and thought the same of her. Yet, that Cinderella-ish meeting in that library and the subsequent, surprisingly friendly, chat turns out to be something far more meaningful. It starts out light with flirtation as both were attracted to each-other on spot. Claire could see the big and muscular Cyrus with quicksilver eyes pretty well. She had seen him in Greenwich Park on occasion as he’s an acquaintance of Edward. Cyrus, on the other hand, was smitten with whatever he could see without the mask; the beautiful skin, the flaxen hair and those blue-green eyes. Not to mention her quick wit that showed she wasn’t scared of him. Oh most were scared of Cyrus’s size, the reason I’ll reveal later. But it had to be the fact that both came from a working class background, so they connected on a level that Cyrus knew he couldn’t have with someone from the Ton he’s trying to be a part of. He, at first, deems Claire as someone’s mistress... then she wasn’t... then they dance and flirt some more... yet when the clock struck midnight, she was gone, running out of his door, completely bend on never revealing her identity. Cyrus is hurt and angry. For the first time, he found someone with whom he clicked, yet it was very apparent that she didn’t think of him that way. He even makes inquiries, hiring runners to search her but came up with nothing. It’s as if she had disappeared into the thin air!
Cyrus had no noble blood in his body. But years of hard labor and later, well-thought-out investments had made him as rich, if not more, as Croesus. His parents died when he was younger and was left to take care of his brood of sisters all by himself. Why I said people were scared of his size, is for the fact that Cyrus is big. And his favorite sport used to be bare-knuckled fighting. He used to take part in matches, earned from it, until when he got rich and had no time beyond his work and investments. Besides, by then, his target was to make a place in the Ton by maintaining a pristine reputation. His remaining unmarried sister, Lucinda, also needed to be married off well. He had plans for her too that included furthering his ambitions. But no matter, Cyrus can definitely use his size and intensity to intimidate someone if needs be. Yet, the Cinderella, who only introduced herself as ‘Claire’, wasn’t intimidated. Not in the least. His visceral reaction to that unknown woman completely baffled him, and so, Cyrus needed to find out who she was as soon as possible.
I was thankful that the author didn’t drag on this search as a plot-twist because I’d be horribly frustrated if it was. Cyrus soon discovers Claire, very much in flesh, even though it was a co-incidence. He went into this new coffee shop, the New Union, with a pal and was struck dumb by the fair hair proprietress. Even with her back turned, he knew he had seen her somewhere. And when a few strands of that lustrous hair escaped her mobcap, Cyrus had the same visceral reaction. He knew it was her. He just knew. That shade of hair is very uncommon in the throng of heads with the powder and polish. Cyrus just needed to have a look at Claire’s face to know he was right. That expressive face couldn’t hide a thing, though she tried her best. I was struck dumb myself when Claire gives up all pretense and up and tells Cyrus exactly why she was in his house. It goes to show that the chat they had in the library was pivotal to their relationship, though they still were virtual strangers to each-other. A connection was forged, built on trust. Instant trust that I couldn’t deny. Claire knew Cyrus won’t bring charges against her, which he had no plans of because Cyrus was too taken with her beauty and intelligence to even bother. He trusted Claire enough to let it go. But as the very devil (or the landlord, however one sees it), he tempts her with a challenge; pay your first bill timely to win my approval. Cyrus knew one thing; what lovely Miss Mayhew can’t disregard is a challenge. Oh boy, here we go! *grins*
From there on, it becomes a battle of wit and charm, both Cyrus and Claire trying to hide their feeling for practical reasons, yet not quite succeeding in the process. From her past experience, Claire was aware that mingling with someone way out of her bounds would only bring heartache, while Cyrus was trying to figure out what to do with this attraction. He wanted her so much, yet there were those plans he’d made to realize his ambitions. But that didn’t deter Cyrus from sending out thoughtful gifts to win Claire over, to what I definitely thought some sort of courting. Both kinda knew that they’d probably end up together sooner or later, the chemistry so sizzling between them. The more days passed, the harder it become ignoring what’s between them.
Amidst all these, Claire was still trying to keep her business afloat, and there was a piece of jewelry that marked her ‘downfall’ in Greenwich. It was authentic and her only piece of security if you can say so. Claire held no emotional attachment to it any longer, not any more than her own independence, and escape from her ruined reputation and sad past. She was determined to pawn or sell it as needed, until one day it goes missing from its secret hiding place. And with that, one of the boys who were helping out in the shop, Nate, also goes missing. Claire’s shop was very auspiciously run by a few down-on-luck peeps; Anne, the former prostitute who was forced into that trade until she escaped somehow. Nate and another boy, both were pickpockets and guilty of small thievery at one time or the other in their young lives. But it seemed they were quite grateful to Claire for giving them a chance at a better life. Annie admired Claire, while Nate was pretty protective of their beautiful proprietress. Claire returned their affection just as much, yet when the implication of Nate’s disappearance struck, she was hurt at his betrayal. I was a bit surprised that she immediately though it was Cyrus who probably paid Nate to prove his point (there was a scene where Cyrus pays Nate to keep an eye out for Claire, which she, from inside of the shop, interpreted as something else). That she as a woman and can’t keep a business running. What she still didn’t know that Cyrus had a tremendous change of heart since he met her. So, an angry and desperate Claire goes out in search of that devilish man, straight to Ryland House. Uninvited, dripping wet from the rain, because she refused to give up.
There though, the moment Claire’s eyes clap on Cyrus, she knew how futile and odd her demands sound. When Cyrus tells her he has no idea what she’s talking about, she knew he’s telling the truth. But she didn’t want to bring charges against Nate, hoping to find the boy and make him understand. At that same library, they also share a few scorching kisses; as if to reminisce of their time in that masked ball. Claire and Cyrus both knew they were in trouble. That their mutual attraction had come to a point where there’s no turning back. After that comes one of the best scenes of the story. When a dejected Claire prepares to go to bed at night in her lonely shop, Nate returns. When he tells her that it wasn’t him who stole the jewel, and that the thief can no longer be apprehended, Claire trusts him too. But her trust was put to test when Nate asks her to follow him somewhere, in the middle of the night and bring in every single coin she had. Apparently, he has a plan to save her shop; all he wanted was Claire’s trust in this.
In a rundown part of London, near the docks, Claire finds herself in a big warehouse, which seemed full of all sorts of men at that hour of the night. Soon it’s explained too. Secret bare-knuckled matches are held in this warehouse with insane bets flying all over. If you win, it’d make your day for sure! Claire still had no idea what’s Nate playing at, but that he’s asking her to give up all her coins to place a bet against someone called the Stretford Bruiser. He’s also the popular one having majority of the bets on his side. This is madness, Claire thought, yet she was also very intrigued, never having been present in a match like this. They slog through the throng of people to the front where she can view the fighters and one, whose back was turned to the spectators, catches her eyes instantly. And oh my, the description of his bare torso, even from behind... hot, Hot, HOT! Claire was mesmerized by that man, and that silky fall of hair at his back, tied with a black ribbon. While Claire was hyperventilating, feeling all hot and bothered, I had this feeling I knew what’s going to happen next. Then, when the man known as the Stretford Bruiser turns towards the crowd, and her, she’s completely taken aback. Oh yes, yessss! It was none other than Cyrus Ryland; the rich and famous Man of Commerce also apparently takes part in illegal matches held in dingy warehouses! It was then Nate puts his plan to motion, the ultimate weapon to bring the Bruiser down. All he had to do was to push Claire forward and reveal her beautiful hair and face at the right time... And it was done.
I LOVED that scene and how Cyrus was literally brought down on his knees... er, back. It was just... inevitable. Cyrus was coming to realize that Claire already has that power over him. As the reigning champion he was sure to have won and this match was his last match before retirement. He couldn’t risk his ‘other world’ finding out about his not-so-gentlemanly nightly activities. When he came to, finding Claire taking care of him... it was close to haven for Cyrus. He understood Nate and admired the boy. He obviously cared for Claire enough to take this risk and Cyrus certainly appreciated it.
On their way home, Claire and Cyrus have a chat about their past. We finally come to know what happened to Claire and how Cyrus became so very successful and rich from the son of a pig farmer. I felt for Claire because her regard for Jonathan, Edward’s elder brother, was totally genuine. But the match was doomed from the start and Jonathan, though he took her virginity with aplomb, apparently wasn’t strong enough to see his promises through. It only served to ruin Claire in the end. I already knew that if it wasn’t for Edward’s support, she probably couldn’t even live in Greenwich for as long as she did. Cyrus’s story, on the other hand, had its own ups and downs and the dark sides, yet very admirable for a teenage boy who was forced to take big responsibilities at such a young age. He was forced to grow up and do things to save his family. He has carried enormous guilt inside for not being able to be there to save his father from that accident but Cyrus has, in the end, become a man one can look up to with adoration. Claire certainly did! And she did her best to assure Cyrus of his self-worth.
Yet, the danger for them comes from that same world of so-called aristocrats, in the form of a desperate old coot, the Duke of Marlborough. He wanted to snare Cyrus for his only daughter to save his rundown Dukedom from financial ruin. To him, it was as if Cyrus should’ve been grateful for this ‘opportunity’ and should’ve already started pouring out all his money on queue! When that didn’t happen, he resorted to something more degrading. The the a$$ already knew about Claire. Knowing Cyrus might be getting out of reach for a ‘nobody’, she becomes his target for blackmailing Cyrus. Cyrus didn’t really do anything to hide his association with Claire which told me plenty of his regards for her, just as Claire never denied that she had the hots for him. He was a complete goner, so much so that when he gets the wind of trouble and that Claire also might be in danger, his first thought was to protect her at all cost, reputation be damned! It also seemed that their long anticipated dance of seduction was finally going to be consummated. That scene was hot!!!
Even though there was another misunderstanding in the end, I knew nothing could keep Claire and Cyrus apart. They were just meant to be together, their connection to each-other was that good. I was so glad that didn’t drag through, hurting both Cyrus and Claire (and me) in the process. Absolutely adored the epilogue, so yah, I finished The Lady Meets Her Match with a great big contended sigh, grinning all the way. :D
I’m still not sure who is getting the next in the series, but whoever it is, I’ll be eagerly waiting to find out what tricks Gina Conkle has up her sleeve for us. 4.5 stars and totally recommended!
I received this ARC, courtesy of Sourcebooks Casablanca, via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
Gina Conkle’s historical romance series, Midnight Meetings, is based on little twists on well-known fairytales. And they’re well-written too, as I’ve come to expect from her in the past years. I do love a good story with a little Cinderella-twist and #2, The Lady Meets Her Match, is one those books that’d leave you craving for more. I had a grand time throughout!
Book 1, Meet the Earl at Midnight, was based on the long cherished tale of the Beauty and the Beast. The Beast being “The Greenwich Recluse”, “the Enigma Earl”... Edward, the Earl of Greenwich. Nerd-extraordinaire, he grew up as the spare, rather than the heir so he had other plans for his life. He wanted to be an explorer, his interest being in anything scientific, most especially the botany-kind. It all changed when his elder brother, Jonathan, died suddenly, leaving him the heir instead. With that Edward’s life’s plan was inevitably altered. Edward didn’t like mingling with people, so socializing is his least favorite thing to do. But there’s a twist there too. On a long ago voyage to some faraway country, he was attacked. Though he barely escaped alive, a side of his face was scarred forever. That was another reason why Edward chose to become a recluse. Now, he has a plan; another voyage to be precise. But, due to his circumstances, he can’t just up and leave anymore. What if he doesn’t return? The Earldom needs to be secured with an heir, and soon. That is where Lydia comes in. She was ‘given’ to Edward by her slimy stepfather who had a huge debt. Edward was looking for a fast escape route in the form of a fast marriage because his ship sails soon and he had no time for courting any debutante. In fact, he never had any interest in those debutantes! Though Lydia is nowhere near the nobility Edward’s perfectionist mother would endorse, he had no other choice. After seeing Lydia for the first time, he doesn’t want any other choice. Edward’s completely taken with her and only Lydia will do as his wife, to much dismay and disgruntlement of the dowager.
There are some conflict along the way since Edward was way too adamant (for my and Lydia’s liking) to leave for this voyage, from where there’s every possibility that he might not return. He was going to leave Lydia alone with a child, so I was very sympathetic towards her plight. And God, he tried his best to tamp down any attraction they might’ve shared, seeing it only as a hindrance to his plans. But as fate would have it, somewhere along the way, they fell in love nevertheless. Lydia wasn’t hiding it, but she was helpless because of Edward’s obstinacy. Her desperation led her to do something so that Edward can’t leave. It leads to the ultimate misunderstanding… In the later parts of the story, he got to strew in the misery of his own making too. He just needed to be reminded what he’ll be missing if he leaves Lydia here all alone; a chance of finding true happiness.
Now, book 1 doesn’t really connect book 2 but for the fact that we met the H, Cyrus and h, Claire in it. Claire was, at that time, a housekeeper to Greenwich Park. She is young and very beautiful, and for that, came under Lydia’s scrutiny more than once because she was jealous. Edward was way too polite and rather affectionate of her than anyone should be of their housekeeper. Not to worry since there was nothing untoward in that relationship. It was resolved soon, with Lydia finding a friend in Claire. It’s then, we’re hinted at her having a ‘past’ of sort, without any further explanation. Cyrus, on the other hand, was a mysterious and distant figure that I didn’t think until the last moment, would be getting his own book... with Claire.
In book 2 we find that Claire has already left Greenwich Park in search of a better life. Her independent streak brought her to London with a hope to make an honest, if laborious, living. She has been trying open up a coffee shop, yet had been unsuccessful, actually more rebuffed from the landlord than unsuccessful in business. She won’t be given the proprietorship because she’s a woman. Unfortunately, the Man of Commerce, the rich and famous, Cyrus Ryland owns her shop (the entire portion of that area), who doesn’t seem to have any big illusions about a woman’s capabilities when it comes to business, or so his man would tell Claire. But she can’t just stand back and watch her dreams die an immature death. This is her only way of an honest living, so Claire plans on something drastic, and pretty dangerous by any measure. She only needed a signature of Mr. Ryland to show his approval, which she’s going to obtain somehow.
And the Cinderella was born. That night, a masked ball was being held at the Ryland House. Claire knew the housekeeper, who agreed on helping her. With the help of her French modiste friend, Juliette, she is able to manage a pretty gown to show off her best aspects too. All she has to do is to be brave, march in (or snick in whatever suits the occasion), go to his library, make a copy of his signature and leave through the back entrance.
Would that things were as simple as it sounded.
Claire gets caught by none other than the man himself, who was having a horrible time with people he can barely tolerate and decided to escape to have a moment all to himself. But she had her mask on, so Cyrus couldn’t identify her and thought the same of her. Yet, that Cinderella-ish meeting in that library and the subsequent, surprisingly friendly, chat turns out to be something far more meaningful. It starts out light with flirtation as both were attracted to each-other on spot. Claire could see the big and muscular Cyrus with quicksilver eyes pretty well. She had seen him in Greenwich Park on occasion as he’s an acquaintance of Edward. Cyrus, on the other hand, was smitten with whatever he could see without the mask; the beautiful skin, the flaxen hair and those blue-green eyes. Not to mention her quick wit that showed she wasn’t scared of him. Oh most were scared of Cyrus’s size, the reason I’ll reveal later. But it had to be the fact that both came from a working class background, so they connected on a level that Cyrus knew he couldn’t have with someone from the Ton he’s trying to be a part of. He, at first, deems Claire as someone’s mistress... then she wasn’t... then they dance and flirt some more... yet when the clock struck midnight, she was gone, running out of his door, completely bend on never revealing her identity. Cyrus is hurt and angry. For the first time, he found someone with whom he clicked, yet it was very apparent that she didn’t think of him that way. He even makes inquiries, hiring runners to search her but came up with nothing. It’s as if she had disappeared into the thin air!
Cyrus had no noble blood in his body. But years of hard labor and later, well-thought-out investments had made him as rich, if not more, as Croesus. His parents died when he was younger and was left to take care of his brood of sisters all by himself. Why I said people were scared of his size, is for the fact that Cyrus is big. And his favorite sport used to be bare-knuckled fighting. He used to take part in matches, earned from it, until when he got rich and had no time beyond his work and investments. Besides, by then, his target was to make a place in the Ton by maintaining a pristine reputation. His remaining unmarried sister, Lucinda, also needed to be married off well. He had plans for her too that included furthering his ambitions. But no matter, Cyrus can definitely use his size and intensity to intimidate someone if needs be. Yet, the Cinderella, who only introduced herself as ‘Claire’, wasn’t intimidated. Not in the least. His visceral reaction to that unknown woman completely baffled him, and so, Cyrus needed to find out who she was as soon as possible.
I was thankful that the author didn’t drag on this search as a plot-twist because I’d be horribly frustrated if it was. Cyrus soon discovers Claire, very much in flesh, even though it was a co-incidence. He went into this new coffee shop, the New Union, with a pal and was struck dumb by the fair hair proprietress. Even with her back turned, he knew he had seen her somewhere. And when a few strands of that lustrous hair escaped her mobcap, Cyrus had the same visceral reaction. He knew it was her. He just knew. That shade of hair is very uncommon in the throng of heads with the powder and polish. Cyrus just needed to have a look at Claire’s face to know he was right. That expressive face couldn’t hide a thing, though she tried her best. I was struck dumb myself when Claire gives up all pretense and up and tells Cyrus exactly why she was in his house. It goes to show that the chat they had in the library was pivotal to their relationship, though they still were virtual strangers to each-other. A connection was forged, built on trust. Instant trust that I couldn’t deny. Claire knew Cyrus won’t bring charges against her, which he had no plans of because Cyrus was too taken with her beauty and intelligence to even bother. He trusted Claire enough to let it go. But as the very devil (or the landlord, however one sees it), he tempts her with a challenge; pay your first bill timely to win my approval. Cyrus knew one thing; what lovely Miss Mayhew can’t disregard is a challenge. Oh boy, here we go! *grins*
From there on, it becomes a battle of wit and charm, both Cyrus and Claire trying to hide their feeling for practical reasons, yet not quite succeeding in the process. From her past experience, Claire was aware that mingling with someone way out of her bounds would only bring heartache, while Cyrus was trying to figure out what to do with this attraction. He wanted her so much, yet there were those plans he’d made to realize his ambitions. But that didn’t deter Cyrus from sending out thoughtful gifts to win Claire over, to what I definitely thought some sort of courting. Both kinda knew that they’d probably end up together sooner or later, the chemistry so sizzling between them. The more days passed, the harder it become ignoring what’s between them.
Amidst all these, Claire was still trying to keep her business afloat, and there was a piece of jewelry that marked her ‘downfall’ in Greenwich. It was authentic and her only piece of security if you can say so. Claire held no emotional attachment to it any longer, not any more than her own independence, and escape from her ruined reputation and sad past. She was determined to pawn or sell it as needed, until one day it goes missing from its secret hiding place. And with that, one of the boys who were helping out in the shop, Nate, also goes missing. Claire’s shop was very auspiciously run by a few down-on-luck peeps; Anne, the former prostitute who was forced into that trade until she escaped somehow. Nate and another boy, both were pickpockets and guilty of small thievery at one time or the other in their young lives. But it seemed they were quite grateful to Claire for giving them a chance at a better life. Annie admired Claire, while Nate was pretty protective of their beautiful proprietress. Claire returned their affection just as much, yet when the implication of Nate’s disappearance struck, she was hurt at his betrayal. I was a bit surprised that she immediately though it was Cyrus who probably paid Nate to prove his point (there was a scene where Cyrus pays Nate to keep an eye out for Claire, which she, from inside of the shop, interpreted as something else). That she as a woman and can’t keep a business running. What she still didn’t know that Cyrus had a tremendous change of heart since he met her. So, an angry and desperate Claire goes out in search of that devilish man, straight to Ryland House. Uninvited, dripping wet from the rain, because she refused to give up.
There though, the moment Claire’s eyes clap on Cyrus, she knew how futile and odd her demands sound. When Cyrus tells her he has no idea what she’s talking about, she knew he’s telling the truth. But she didn’t want to bring charges against Nate, hoping to find the boy and make him understand. At that same library, they also share a few scorching kisses; as if to reminisce of their time in that masked ball. Claire and Cyrus both knew they were in trouble. That their mutual attraction had come to a point where there’s no turning back. After that comes one of the best scenes of the story. When a dejected Claire prepares to go to bed at night in her lonely shop, Nate returns. When he tells her that it wasn’t him who stole the jewel, and that the thief can no longer be apprehended, Claire trusts him too. But her trust was put to test when Nate asks her to follow him somewhere, in the middle of the night and bring in every single coin she had. Apparently, he has a plan to save her shop; all he wanted was Claire’s trust in this.
In a rundown part of London, near the docks, Claire finds herself in a big warehouse, which seemed full of all sorts of men at that hour of the night. Soon it’s explained too. Secret bare-knuckled matches are held in this warehouse with insane bets flying all over. If you win, it’d make your day for sure! Claire still had no idea what’s Nate playing at, but that he’s asking her to give up all her coins to place a bet against someone called the Stretford Bruiser. He’s also the popular one having majority of the bets on his side. This is madness, Claire thought, yet she was also very intrigued, never having been present in a match like this. They slog through the throng of people to the front where she can view the fighters and one, whose back was turned to the spectators, catches her eyes instantly. And oh my, the description of his bare torso, even from behind... hot, Hot, HOT! Claire was mesmerized by that man, and that silky fall of hair at his back, tied with a black ribbon. While Claire was hyperventilating, feeling all hot and bothered, I had this feeling I knew what’s going to happen next. Then, when the man known as the Stretford Bruiser turns towards the crowd, and her, she’s completely taken aback. Oh yes, yessss! It was none other than Cyrus Ryland; the rich and famous Man of Commerce also apparently takes part in illegal matches held in dingy warehouses! It was then Nate puts his plan to motion, the ultimate weapon to bring the Bruiser down. All he had to do was to push Claire forward and reveal her beautiful hair and face at the right time... And it was done.
I LOVED that scene and how Cyrus was literally brought down on his knees... er, back. It was just... inevitable. Cyrus was coming to realize that Claire already has that power over him. As the reigning champion he was sure to have won and this match was his last match before retirement. He couldn’t risk his ‘other world’ finding out about his not-so-gentlemanly nightly activities. When he came to, finding Claire taking care of him... it was close to haven for Cyrus. He understood Nate and admired the boy. He obviously cared for Claire enough to take this risk and Cyrus certainly appreciated it.
On their way home, Claire and Cyrus have a chat about their past. We finally come to know what happened to Claire and how Cyrus became so very successful and rich from the son of a pig farmer. I felt for Claire because her regard for Jonathan, Edward’s elder brother, was totally genuine. But the match was doomed from the start and Jonathan, though he took her virginity with aplomb, apparently wasn’t strong enough to see his promises through. It only served to ruin Claire in the end. I already knew that if it wasn’t for Edward’s support, she probably couldn’t even live in Greenwich for as long as she did. Cyrus’s story, on the other hand, had its own ups and downs and the dark sides, yet very admirable for a teenage boy who was forced to take big responsibilities at such a young age. He was forced to grow up and do things to save his family. He has carried enormous guilt inside for not being able to be there to save his father from that accident but Cyrus has, in the end, become a man one can look up to with adoration. Claire certainly did! And she did her best to assure Cyrus of his self-worth.
Yet, the danger for them comes from that same world of so-called aristocrats, in the form of a desperate old coot, the Duke of Marlborough. He wanted to snare Cyrus for his only daughter to save his rundown Dukedom from financial ruin. To him, it was as if Cyrus should’ve been grateful for this ‘opportunity’ and should’ve already started pouring out all his money on queue! When that didn’t happen, he resorted to something more degrading. The the a$$ already knew about Claire. Knowing Cyrus might be getting out of reach for a ‘nobody’, she becomes his target for blackmailing Cyrus. Cyrus didn’t really do anything to hide his association with Claire which told me plenty of his regards for her, just as Claire never denied that she had the hots for him. He was a complete goner, so much so that when he gets the wind of trouble and that Claire also might be in danger, his first thought was to protect her at all cost, reputation be damned! It also seemed that their long anticipated dance of seduction was finally going to be consummated. That scene was hot!!!
Even though there was another misunderstanding in the end, I knew nothing could keep Claire and Cyrus apart. They were just meant to be together, their connection to each-other was that good. I was so glad that didn’t drag through, hurting both Cyrus and Claire (and me) in the process. Absolutely adored the epilogue, so yah, I finished The Lady Meets Her Match with a great big contended sigh, grinning all the way. :D
I’m still not sure who is getting the next in the series, but whoever it is, I’ll be eagerly waiting to find out what tricks Gina Conkle has up her sleeve for us. 4.5 stars and totally recommended!
I received this ARC, courtesy of Sourcebooks Casablanca, via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
3 Stars.
This review is going to be difficult for me to write, so I'll try to be black and white. If I had read this title when I received it, not going back to read book #1 first, my thoughts and rating would have been significantly higher. I would have walked away after reading this book with a smile on my face and momentary warm and fuzzy feelings. I would have quickly written a review, knowing the story wouldn't ride my thoughts long while I hitched a ride on the next read.
I didn't do that. I did read book #1, finishing it and immediately starting this book. So I can't help but compare the two. After writing a glowing review, finding Meet the Earl at Midnight on my favorites shelf as one of the wittiest books I've ever read, I found the follow-up to be lackluster. The first book I read cover-to-cover in one sitting, going without sleep... this took me the better part of three days to read.
The Lady Meets Her Match is a fun, quick read to offer a few hours of sweet entertainment. The beginning of the story hooks you right in, keeping you interested in what's to happen next. Especially so, after meeting Claire in the previous book. Claire's mission is an interesting one in the opening, as is her meeting with Cyrus. But I will point out that their meeting doesn't have the same chemistry, wit, and flair as Lydia and Edward from book 1.
I kept wondering when the story was going to evolve, as we were still on the initial meeting until 17% of the book. In actuality, I felt that the reason they met was the only plot of the story that was fully developed. Once it met its conclusion, the book stalled as the reader waited for something to happen next. What did happen was thrown in there piecemeal, and then quickly resolved but never truly pushed the story forward.
One noticeable difference is the amount of romance, lusty thoughts, and inner monologues of physical attraction that were not present in book 1. Pages of how simple touches felt: the brush of a fingertip, the caress of a thigh against thigh, a kiss to a hand, the scent of the lover. While in moderation, this is thrilling. When done in excess, it bogs down the story.
I should mention, while I love romance, I like the journey the best. So when it's injected too soon, or too heavily with the physical aspects of attraction, I tend to get annoyed with the characters. I feel as if they are shallow and empty not to connect on a deeper level. To be blunt, everything I praised in book 1 was absent from book 2. Which doesn't necessarily mean readers won't love this book. I'm a serious, mature reader who is more into wit than looks.
Claire has a great backstory, one that was never broached. The necklace was shown since the first book, with a simple blip of explanation & a non-developed but easily written away theft. As well as Claire's connection to Johnathan never truly being injected into the story- at least not by Claire. She never showed any true emotions over it. The man she loved since childhood betrayed her, and then died. While this led to her independence, I felt the lack of emotion showed Claire as one-dimensional. Also, I was a bit disappointed in never seeing or hearing from Edward. He was so worried about Claire in book one, not allowing Lydia to throw down an it's Claire or me edict, never to write, or visit, or be a passing thought in Claire's head after spending all 26 years of her life as his friend.
By comparison, The Lady Meets her Match wasn't as fully developed as Meet the Earl at Midnight. (I did receive an ARC, so I'm not speaking of formatting issues or proofreading errors). The historical accuracy, sentence structure, the voice, it didn't feel the same to me after reading the two books back-to-back. While the book opened just as strong, the premise never moved forward from there, where it relied on mis-communications, inner monologue telling the reader about physical attraction, and a mystery thrown into the mix near the end of the book which was resolved a chapter later.
My advice: if you are reading this review prior to reading either of the books in this series, read this book (The Lady Meets her Match) first, and you will get the warm and fuzzies and a smile on your face. I promise you will enjoy it and be entertained. I also guarantee you will not spoil anything that happened in book #1 (Meet the Earl at Midnight) Then read book #1, and be blown away.
Genre: Historical Romance | Saccharine Romance | Off-scene wedding | experienced woman | independent woman | Rags to riches | Blackmail/extortion |
Historical Accuracy: I'm not a stickler on this. I don't mind modern words being introduced in the storyline either. When I'm engaged with a read, I don't notice much of anything but the story itself. But I did notice this wasn't as accurate as it could have been.
Romance/sex: Filled to the max with sweet romance. Strong physical connection with a lot of intense flirting. A few scenes of sexual contact, but not explicit or overtly detailed.
Recommended: Romance Fans | Historical Romance Fans | Lovers of the warm and fuzzies where emotional depth isn't necessary.
Will I read more by this author: Yes, absolutely. Even though this book didn't resonate with me, I still cannot wait to see what Gina Conkle will write next.
3 Stars.
This review is going to be difficult for me to write, so I'll try to be black and white. If I had read this title when I received it, not going back to read book #1 first, my thoughts and rating would have been significantly higher. I would have walked away after reading this book with a smile on my face and momentary warm and fuzzy feelings. I would have quickly written a review, knowing the story wouldn't ride my thoughts long while I hitched a ride on the next read.
I didn't do that. I did read book #1, finishing it and immediately starting this book. So I can't help but compare the two. After writing a glowing review, finding Meet the Earl at Midnight on my favorites shelf as one of the wittiest books I've ever read, I found the follow-up to be lackluster. The first book I read cover-to-cover in one sitting, going without sleep... this took me the better part of three days to read.
The Lady Meets Her Match is a fun, quick read to offer a few hours of sweet entertainment. The beginning of the story hooks you right in, keeping you interested in what's to happen next. Especially so, after meeting Claire in the previous book. Claire's mission is an interesting one in the opening, as is her meeting with Cyrus. But I will point out that their meeting doesn't have the same chemistry, wit, and flair as Lydia and Edward from book 1.
I kept wondering when the story was going to evolve, as we were still on the initial meeting until 17% of the book. In actuality, I felt that the reason they met was the only plot of the story that was fully developed. Once it met its conclusion, the book stalled as the reader waited for something to happen next. What did happen was thrown in there piecemeal, and then quickly resolved but never truly pushed the story forward.
One noticeable difference is the amount of romance, lusty thoughts, and inner monologues of physical attraction that were not present in book 1. Pages of how simple touches felt: the brush of a fingertip, the caress of a thigh against thigh, a kiss to a hand, the scent of the lover. While in moderation, this is thrilling. When done in excess, it bogs down the story.
I should mention, while I love romance, I like the journey the best. So when it's injected too soon, or too heavily with the physical aspects of attraction, I tend to get annoyed with the characters. I feel as if they are shallow and empty not to connect on a deeper level. To be blunt, everything I praised in book 1 was absent from book 2. Which doesn't necessarily mean readers won't love this book. I'm a serious, mature reader who is more into wit than looks.
Claire has a great backstory, one that was never broached. The necklace was shown since the first book, with a simple blip of explanation & a non-developed but easily written away theft. As well as Claire's connection to Johnathan never truly being injected into the story- at least not by Claire. She never showed any true emotions over it. The man she loved since childhood betrayed her, and then died. While this led to her independence, I felt the lack of emotion showed Claire as one-dimensional. Also, I was a bit disappointed in never seeing or hearing from Edward. He was so worried about Claire in book one, not allowing Lydia to throw down an it's Claire or me edict, never to write, or visit, or be a passing thought in Claire's head after spending all 26 years of her life as his friend.
By comparison, The Lady Meets her Match wasn't as fully developed as Meet the Earl at Midnight. (I did receive an ARC, so I'm not speaking of formatting issues or proofreading errors). The historical accuracy, sentence structure, the voice, it didn't feel the same to me after reading the two books back-to-back. While the book opened just as strong, the premise never moved forward from there, where it relied on mis-communications, inner monologue telling the reader about physical attraction, and a mystery thrown into the mix near the end of the book which was resolved a chapter later.
My advice: if you are reading this review prior to reading either of the books in this series, read this book (The Lady Meets her Match) first, and you will get the warm and fuzzies and a smile on your face. I promise you will enjoy it and be entertained. I also guarantee you will not spoil anything that happened in book #1 (Meet the Earl at Midnight) Then read book #1, and be blown away.
Genre: Historical Romance | Saccharine Romance | Off-scene wedding | experienced woman | independent woman | Rags to riches | Blackmail/extortion |
Historical Accuracy: I'm not a stickler on this. I don't mind modern words being introduced in the storyline either. When I'm engaged with a read, I don't notice much of anything but the story itself. But I did notice this wasn't as accurate as it could have been.
Romance/sex: Filled to the max with sweet romance. Strong physical connection with a lot of intense flirting. A few scenes of sexual contact, but not explicit or overtly detailed.
Recommended: Romance Fans | Historical Romance Fans | Lovers of the warm and fuzzies where emotional depth isn't necessary.
Will I read more by this author: Yes, absolutely. Even though this book didn't resonate with me, I still cannot wait to see what Gina Conkle will write next.
April 8, 2015
3.5 stars. I’m torn about this book, because on the one hand there’s a really lovely love story between an independent young business woman and a rich man who worked his way up from nothing, but on the other there are so many poorly done details that kept disrupting my enjoyment of the story. If you’re not bothered by historical inaccuracies in a historical romance, then ignore the rest of this review, because I am bothered by it and I’m going to talk about it. Normally I can let a few things slide here and there, but there were several things in this book that just kept throwing me out of the story meaning I couldn’t enjoy it – even the bits I really, really wanted to.
I shall try to be brief:
– I have never heard any part of London described as Midtown. Cornhill is part of the City, as in the original city of London and that’s how I’ve always known it. Also, aren’t East Enders better known as Cockneys?
– Manchester is not in the Midlands. It’s part of Lancashire which is part of the North. I realise that to most non-Brits most accents likely sound the same, but there really isn’t much similarity between a Lancaster accent and a Midland one.
– Normally I let references to ladies underwear pass, but since so much is made of Claire’s drawers – no, just no. Women don’t really start wearing drawers until the 19th century, until then they’re considered quite scandalous.
– I’m not a fan of using real people in fiction, unless they’re prominent characters. So the use of the Duke of Bridgewater is fine, because he really did build the canals. The Duke of Marlborough, though… I was pretty iffy on the use of him to begin with, but thanks to Wikipedia I’ve now learned that there actually wasn’t a 2nd Duke, because John Churchill’s son predeceased him and the title passed to his daughter (who technically became the 2nd Duchess), who again lived longer than her son, so it was then passed onto her cousin (3rd duke). Meaning the use of the 2nd Duke of Marlborough here as the son of John Churchill is not only wrong, it’s badly inaccurate since this is set in 1768, by which time the title had passed to the fourth duke. I found this all out just now on Wiki, and all because I wasn’t certain John Churchill could lose Blenheim since it technically (like Wellington’s home) belongs to the nation, since it was built for them in gratitude for their military victories.
– Greenwich is a royal park and has been a very long time. It surprised me to find there’s an earl there… apparently.
– And while we’re on the subject of the aristocracy, why can’t people get courtesy titles right? Elizabeth Churchill would be Lady Elizabeth, not Lady Churchill, and the Marquess of North’s brother would have been Lord Marcus, not Lord whoever he was.
There might have been more, but I can’t remember them now. Normally I’d let things like the drawers and even courtesy titles pass me by, because they’re errors I see a lot in these books, but the rest threw me out of the story every time I read them and that annoyed me. A lot.
As for the story itself, I liked large parts of it. The beginning is really lovely, with Claire creeping into Cyrus’ study to forge his signature (though why she ever thought that was a good idea…). Their conversation and sensual flirtation followed by a dance was gorgeous. I also liked that it takes time for them to fall in love and into bed. It’s sweetly done. I did, however, find Cyrus’ opinions of women rather surprising considering he has so many sisters who he claims are outspoken. I’m not entirely sure he ever really changes his mind either, though his protective streak towards Claire turns quite adorable towards the end and his reasons for buying her clothing is very sweet.
As for Claire, I liked her, mostly. I just wish she hadn’t been quite so slap-dash in her business practices. I wanted her to be brilliant and to prove to Cyrus that women not only can run business by themselves, but they deserve the right to. Which would have been shocking at a time when a single woman couldn’t open a bank account, so perhaps she’s a product of her time. Although as a housekeeper for an earl surely she would have learnt about keeping track of expenditure and income, even though she seems awfully young for such an important post.
Which again proves that I spent more time while reading this book thinking over things that were wrong or didn’t make sense than actually enjoying it. There’s a minor plot about sabotage and a bit of blackmail, but to be honest it’s mostly a tale of a working girl and a working guy getting together and sorting things out between themselves, with a bit of historical set dressing. It’s enjoyable, especially if you’re not bothered by accuracy, but after the beginning I had hoped for more.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I shall try to be brief:
– I have never heard any part of London described as Midtown. Cornhill is part of the City, as in the original city of London and that’s how I’ve always known it. Also, aren’t East Enders better known as Cockneys?
– Manchester is not in the Midlands. It’s part of Lancashire which is part of the North. I realise that to most non-Brits most accents likely sound the same, but there really isn’t much similarity between a Lancaster accent and a Midland one.
– Normally I let references to ladies underwear pass, but since so much is made of Claire’s drawers – no, just no. Women don’t really start wearing drawers until the 19th century, until then they’re considered quite scandalous.
– I’m not a fan of using real people in fiction, unless they’re prominent characters. So the use of the Duke of Bridgewater is fine, because he really did build the canals. The Duke of Marlborough, though… I was pretty iffy on the use of him to begin with, but thanks to Wikipedia I’ve now learned that there actually wasn’t a 2nd Duke, because John Churchill’s son predeceased him and the title passed to his daughter (who technically became the 2nd Duchess), who again lived longer than her son, so it was then passed onto her cousin (3rd duke). Meaning the use of the 2nd Duke of Marlborough here as the son of John Churchill is not only wrong, it’s badly inaccurate since this is set in 1768, by which time the title had passed to the fourth duke. I found this all out just now on Wiki, and all because I wasn’t certain John Churchill could lose Blenheim since it technically (like Wellington’s home) belongs to the nation, since it was built for them in gratitude for their military victories.
– Greenwich is a royal park and has been a very long time. It surprised me to find there’s an earl there… apparently.
– And while we’re on the subject of the aristocracy, why can’t people get courtesy titles right? Elizabeth Churchill would be Lady Elizabeth, not Lady Churchill, and the Marquess of North’s brother would have been Lord Marcus, not Lord whoever he was.
There might have been more, but I can’t remember them now. Normally I’d let things like the drawers and even courtesy titles pass me by, because they’re errors I see a lot in these books, but the rest threw me out of the story every time I read them and that annoyed me. A lot.
As for the story itself, I liked large parts of it. The beginning is really lovely, with Claire creeping into Cyrus’ study to forge his signature (though why she ever thought that was a good idea…). Their conversation and sensual flirtation followed by a dance was gorgeous. I also liked that it takes time for them to fall in love and into bed. It’s sweetly done. I did, however, find Cyrus’ opinions of women rather surprising considering he has so many sisters who he claims are outspoken. I’m not entirely sure he ever really changes his mind either, though his protective streak towards Claire turns quite adorable towards the end and his reasons for buying her clothing is very sweet.
As for Claire, I liked her, mostly. I just wish she hadn’t been quite so slap-dash in her business practices. I wanted her to be brilliant and to prove to Cyrus that women not only can run business by themselves, but they deserve the right to. Which would have been shocking at a time when a single woman couldn’t open a bank account, so perhaps she’s a product of her time. Although as a housekeeper for an earl surely she would have learnt about keeping track of expenditure and income, even though she seems awfully young for such an important post.
Which again proves that I spent more time while reading this book thinking over things that were wrong or didn’t make sense than actually enjoying it. There’s a minor plot about sabotage and a bit of blackmail, but to be honest it’s mostly a tale of a working girl and a working guy getting together and sorting things out between themselves, with a bit of historical set dressing. It’s enjoyable, especially if you’re not bothered by accuracy, but after the beginning I had hoped for more.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
February 17, 2015
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Based on Cinderella, The Lady Meets Her Match is a delightful Historical Romance following the independent Claire and the man she wants to avoid, Cyrus. All Claire wants is to own her own business and live in peace, but Cyrus refuses to rent to a woman. He demands that she get her father, brother, or husband to sign the lease for her. Well, Claire isn't having any of that, so she sneaks into his masked ball in order to raid his office for something with his signature that she can forge it. Of course, she has to be nearly caught by Cyrus himself. He becomes completely intrigued by this mystery woman, but she disappears right as the unmasking is going on. But she left behind her first name and her shoe, so he aims to track her down.
I loved this twist on the classic tale. The Lady Meets Her Match starts off based on the fairy tale, but soon diverts into its own great romance. I actually really liked how in the beginning Cyrus wasn't sure if he was looking for Claire to return her shoe, get to know her better, or find out if she robbed him! He's completely baffled by why she ran off so suddenly, but that doesn't stop him from feeling something for the outspoken young woman. I also liked that her forging his signature wasn't some drawn out thing and the focus of the conflict. He stumbles upon her in her new coffee shop and she admits what she did and why. While Cyrus may have traditional values when it comes to women in business, he does admire her backbone. Good for him!
Claire doesn't want or need a man her life, but she does find herself falling for Cyrus. She doesn't play games with him though. She speaks her mind, and even discloses that she is not a virgin! Gasp! But then again, she does discover one of his dirty secrets while trying to earn some extra money to support her store. I definitely didn't see that one coming! Although I was wondering why the "King of Commerce" was so muscular...
In the end, I really enjoyed The Lady Meets Her Match. Cyrus knocks down Claire's defenses and shows her that she can still be her own woman while also having love. She shows him that women don't always need the protection of a man. It's just a really sweet romance.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Based on Cinderella, The Lady Meets Her Match is a delightful Historical Romance following the independent Claire and the man she wants to avoid, Cyrus. All Claire wants is to own her own business and live in peace, but Cyrus refuses to rent to a woman. He demands that she get her father, brother, or husband to sign the lease for her. Well, Claire isn't having any of that, so she sneaks into his masked ball in order to raid his office for something with his signature that she can forge it. Of course, she has to be nearly caught by Cyrus himself. He becomes completely intrigued by this mystery woman, but she disappears right as the unmasking is going on. But she left behind her first name and her shoe, so he aims to track her down.
I loved this twist on the classic tale. The Lady Meets Her Match starts off based on the fairy tale, but soon diverts into its own great romance. I actually really liked how in the beginning Cyrus wasn't sure if he was looking for Claire to return her shoe, get to know her better, or find out if she robbed him! He's completely baffled by why she ran off so suddenly, but that doesn't stop him from feeling something for the outspoken young woman. I also liked that her forging his signature wasn't some drawn out thing and the focus of the conflict. He stumbles upon her in her new coffee shop and she admits what she did and why. While Cyrus may have traditional values when it comes to women in business, he does admire her backbone. Good for him!
Claire doesn't want or need a man her life, but she does find herself falling for Cyrus. She doesn't play games with him though. She speaks her mind, and even discloses that she is not a virgin! Gasp! But then again, she does discover one of his dirty secrets while trying to earn some extra money to support her store. I definitely didn't see that one coming! Although I was wondering why the "King of Commerce" was so muscular...
In the end, I really enjoyed The Lady Meets Her Match. Cyrus knocks down Claire's defenses and shows her that she can still be her own woman while also having love. She shows him that women don't always need the protection of a man. It's just a really sweet romance.
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
October 21, 2017
I added this to my reading list because I like stories involving the time period and I liked the idea of a strong woman character who goes against what is expected to open her on business. However, I missed the fact that this is a romance book. There was much eye-rolling involved during the reading and I almost abandoned it part way through.
January 12, 2015
A charming romance that showed a slice of life from the oft-overlooked middle class of the era, The Lady Meets Her Match was a lovely read. With engaging character and sweet romance, this book was a thoroughly enjoyable romance.
Claire was a great heroine. She was clever and determined to be independent. Though, at first, she thought being independent meant being alone, she realized over the course of the books that it wasn't necessarily true, with the right man. I thought she was a lovely character.
Cyrus was a delight. Extremely smart and driven, his number one focus in life was to take care of his family. Nothing was more important to him that ensuring their safety. And, when he fell for Claire, that umbrella of protection expanded to include her as well. Add to that how sweet he could be and we have a perfect hero.
The romance was very sweet. Claire and Cyrus were infatuated with each other from when they first met and it didn't take long for those feelings to deepen. They had genuine respect for each other, which made them a couple that was on equal footing. And, they definitely had enough chemistry to lead to some steamy scenes.
The plot moved quickly, keeping me hooked all the way through. There were a few unexpected challenges along the way, but nothing would stop Claire and Cyrus from getting what they wanted. I really liked the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
The Lady Meets Her Match was a delightful historical romance and I really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth the read.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Claire was a great heroine. She was clever and determined to be independent. Though, at first, she thought being independent meant being alone, she realized over the course of the books that it wasn't necessarily true, with the right man. I thought she was a lovely character.
Cyrus was a delight. Extremely smart and driven, his number one focus in life was to take care of his family. Nothing was more important to him that ensuring their safety. And, when he fell for Claire, that umbrella of protection expanded to include her as well. Add to that how sweet he could be and we have a perfect hero.
The romance was very sweet. Claire and Cyrus were infatuated with each other from when they first met and it didn't take long for those feelings to deepen. They had genuine respect for each other, which made them a couple that was on equal footing. And, they definitely had enough chemistry to lead to some steamy scenes.
The plot moved quickly, keeping me hooked all the way through. There were a few unexpected challenges along the way, but nothing would stop Claire and Cyrus from getting what they wanted. I really liked the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
The Lady Meets Her Match was a delightful historical romance and I really enjoyed reading it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth the read.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
February 9, 2015
4.5 Stars
A lovely Cinderella adaptation that takes place in historical London. This is the 2nd book in a series, but the novel can be read as a stand-alone (although I suggest reading both, especially since the leading lady of this book is briefly introduced in Meet the Earl at Midnight). Both MCs are likeable, independent, and a bit stubborn and many of the supporting characters are fun. It's nice to have characters from different social levels too. The romance is thoughtful and alluring without being over the top. The writing and the plot are witty and light-hearted and there are plenty of characters to choose from for a third installment. Recommended for fans of historical romances and fairy tale adaptations.
Net Galley Feedback
A lovely Cinderella adaptation that takes place in historical London. This is the 2nd book in a series, but the novel can be read as a stand-alone (although I suggest reading both, especially since the leading lady of this book is briefly introduced in Meet the Earl at Midnight). Both MCs are likeable, independent, and a bit stubborn and many of the supporting characters are fun. It's nice to have characters from different social levels too. The romance is thoughtful and alluring without being over the top. The writing and the plot are witty and light-hearted and there are plenty of characters to choose from for a third installment. Recommended for fans of historical romances and fairy tale adaptations.
Net Galley Feedback
January 16, 2015
This book had a lot of redeeming qualities as well as some things that didn't appeal to me.
I always enjoy a historical that focuses on the common people and this one did an excellent job of exploring the merchant class in a period often studded with Dukes and Princes.
There was also a great sense of the transition from the once unlimited power of the nobility to the more modern model of money and hard work leading to success.
Given all that I really wanted to love the story, but found the prose a little labored and a bit too flowery for my taste.
The love story also seemed to conclude too quickly and abruptly considering the characters involved.
Still, a pleasant story with a unique premise.
I always enjoy a historical that focuses on the common people and this one did an excellent job of exploring the merchant class in a period often studded with Dukes and Princes.
There was also a great sense of the transition from the once unlimited power of the nobility to the more modern model of money and hard work leading to success.
Given all that I really wanted to love the story, but found the prose a little labored and a bit too flowery for my taste.
The love story also seemed to conclude too quickly and abruptly considering the characters involved.
Still, a pleasant story with a unique premise.
March 23, 2015
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway and really enjoyed it. The hero and heroine each made an appearance in the first book of this series, "Meet the Earl at Midnight". While I liked that book, I think this one was better. I do not write plot spoilers, but I can say that Cyrus and Claire are not aristocrats. He is very wealthy and she wants her own business. The rest you will have to read. I think you'll like this book. It's available April 7th!
December 3, 2017
This is a nice light read that enjoyed. You did not have to have read the other book to read this one although I did read both.
Read
May 22, 2022DNF at 6% because I am tired of romance love interests starting out super-misogynistic. why would I read this when I could read anything else.
April 9, 2015
For lovers of Historical romance in the Regency type era, be warned. This is a bit different. There is a touch of the pomp and grandeur of a grand ball. The story begins with the heroine crashing a masked ball. But otherwise, this story is about *gasp* commoners.
The hero – Cyrus Ryland – is a former shareholder farmer who has managed to make himself into the “King of Commerce” and become extremely rich. Therefore, the aristocratic elite have found a tolerance for him. He is even being courted to wed the daughter of a Duke. How very enterprising for him. What I find most interesting about this character is that in spite of his lack of title or antecedents, he is just as arrogantly confident that he is right and entitled as any titled member of the aristocracy. Maybe it is more a guy thing. *grin*
Seriously, Cyrus owns many properties in London to include warehouses on the shores of the Thames and shops in the center of bustling London. He literally rules an empire. He is strong and focused on his goals – provide a good life for his mother and sisters. After all it is a man’s job to look after his women folk. Then he meets Claire.
Claire is a young woman who actually did grow up on an estate. All be it, she was the steward’s daughter, but she did have some advantages. The least of which was hanging with the Lord’s sons. But that didn’t work out well, so now she is in London making her own way as an independent woman. Easier said than done when the archaic idea that a woman must have a man to sponsor her still exists. But she is determined. She will have her coffee shop and she will succeed.
I liked these characters. They were both strong minded. They had each lead hard lives that brought them to this place and time. The attraction they felt for each other had the potential of destroying everything they had each built. They had much to learn about each other and about love.
All of the elements were here for a good story. Strong characters. Interesting premise. Conflict. Scandal. Should have kept me clued to the page. But, I found myself nodding off. The pacing was slow. It was a struggle to continue reading to the satisfying ending. But, I did make it to the happy ever after, so all was not lost.
This is the type story to appeal to those who enjoy a slow amble. Although there is some tense moments, I would not call them heart stopping or gasp worthy. Just a bit tense. The romance of this story was nice, sweet even. Some of the action was fairly predictable so not surprising. This would be a good read for that snowed in day.
Oh yes, this does read very well as a stand-alone novel. I have not read the first book of this series and do not feel I missed anything. It would appear that it is the “meeting at midnight” that binds this series, not the characters. So jump in, the water is fine.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The hero – Cyrus Ryland – is a former shareholder farmer who has managed to make himself into the “King of Commerce” and become extremely rich. Therefore, the aristocratic elite have found a tolerance for him. He is even being courted to wed the daughter of a Duke. How very enterprising for him. What I find most interesting about this character is that in spite of his lack of title or antecedents, he is just as arrogantly confident that he is right and entitled as any titled member of the aristocracy. Maybe it is more a guy thing. *grin*
Seriously, Cyrus owns many properties in London to include warehouses on the shores of the Thames and shops in the center of bustling London. He literally rules an empire. He is strong and focused on his goals – provide a good life for his mother and sisters. After all it is a man’s job to look after his women folk. Then he meets Claire.
Claire is a young woman who actually did grow up on an estate. All be it, she was the steward’s daughter, but she did have some advantages. The least of which was hanging with the Lord’s sons. But that didn’t work out well, so now she is in London making her own way as an independent woman. Easier said than done when the archaic idea that a woman must have a man to sponsor her still exists. But she is determined. She will have her coffee shop and she will succeed.
I liked these characters. They were both strong minded. They had each lead hard lives that brought them to this place and time. The attraction they felt for each other had the potential of destroying everything they had each built. They had much to learn about each other and about love.
All of the elements were here for a good story. Strong characters. Interesting premise. Conflict. Scandal. Should have kept me clued to the page. But, I found myself nodding off. The pacing was slow. It was a struggle to continue reading to the satisfying ending. But, I did make it to the happy ever after, so all was not lost.
This is the type story to appeal to those who enjoy a slow amble. Although there is some tense moments, I would not call them heart stopping or gasp worthy. Just a bit tense. The romance of this story was nice, sweet even. Some of the action was fairly predictable so not surprising. This would be a good read for that snowed in day.
Oh yes, this does read very well as a stand-alone novel. I have not read the first book of this series and do not feel I missed anything. It would appear that it is the “meeting at midnight” that binds this series, not the characters. So jump in, the water is fine.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2015
Gina Conkle has used a Cinderella-like story, mixed in non-titled people and brought us to London in this unique historical romance.
Claire is a middle class woman, determined to make a success of a business of her very own. Unfortunately, the owner of the property she wishes to rent is completely unwilling to rent to a woman. Cyrus is an up and coming ‘king of industry’ with some utterly archaic ideas. His refusal to believe that a woman can succeed in business, and his unwillingness to consider that as an option make him a bit difficult to deal with at first.
Claire will not accede to Cyrus’ demands for a male signatory for the lease agreement, so she decides to attend a masked ball held at Cyrus’ house, to snoop in his office and obtain a signature. When she disappears just before the unmasking, leaving only her first name and her shoe, Cyrus is intrigued.
The two enter into a tentative dance as they get to know one another. While Cyrus isn’t certain of the motivations behind his interest, Clare is utterly convinced that she doesn’t want an entanglement. And she is very honest and vocal about her past and desires, something totally unusual for Cyrus. And, with the discovery of a dark secret that Cyrus holds, the balance of power certainly shifts…
While the plot was clever and I really enjoyed the characters, the frequent lapses into flowery prose did leave the storytelling feeling a bit forced and tortured on occasion. Whether this was an homage to the fairy tale genesis of the story, a sort of nod to the style of many of the stories or just a writing device not particularly well integrated I’m not completely certain. But, despite those lapses, there was enough interest in both Claire and Cyrus as they maneuvered in their relationship to keep me intrigued and reading along.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Claire is a middle class woman, determined to make a success of a business of her very own. Unfortunately, the owner of the property she wishes to rent is completely unwilling to rent to a woman. Cyrus is an up and coming ‘king of industry’ with some utterly archaic ideas. His refusal to believe that a woman can succeed in business, and his unwillingness to consider that as an option make him a bit difficult to deal with at first.
Claire will not accede to Cyrus’ demands for a male signatory for the lease agreement, so she decides to attend a masked ball held at Cyrus’ house, to snoop in his office and obtain a signature. When she disappears just before the unmasking, leaving only her first name and her shoe, Cyrus is intrigued.
The two enter into a tentative dance as they get to know one another. While Cyrus isn’t certain of the motivations behind his interest, Clare is utterly convinced that she doesn’t want an entanglement. And she is very honest and vocal about her past and desires, something totally unusual for Cyrus. And, with the discovery of a dark secret that Cyrus holds, the balance of power certainly shifts…
While the plot was clever and I really enjoyed the characters, the frequent lapses into flowery prose did leave the storytelling feeling a bit forced and tortured on occasion. Whether this was an homage to the fairy tale genesis of the story, a sort of nod to the style of many of the stories or just a writing device not particularly well integrated I’m not completely certain. But, despite those lapses, there was enough interest in both Claire and Cyrus as they maneuvered in their relationship to keep me intrigued and reading along.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
April 2, 2015
I really enjoyed THE LADY MEETS HER MATCH. There are elements of Cinderella that play into the beginning of the novel, but once ‘Cinderella’ leaves the ball, the real fun begins. Set in the Georgian period, this exciting novel explores the slightly darker aspects of life. And the complexity of both the plot and characters was a fresh, but realistic take on period life. The heroine is a woman struggling to find independence and prove her business acumen, so while I loved that she was spirited and independent, this novel explored the more realistic consequences of having those traits in a time period that frowned upon such things. Even the hero, whom we are supposed to love and cheer for, held realistic beliefs regarding women and their alleged inability to function without a man’s guidance.
Claire and Cyrus are well-matched and learn important life lessons from the other. Claire shows Cyrus that women fully capable of making strategic and informed business decisions without help from men and Cyrus teaches Claire that she can fall in love and still maintain her independence. Theirs is a sweet, unexpected romance with a fun mystery to solve as the plot develops. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, there’s a great plot twist that will spin everything you think you know on its head.
I had no idea this was part of a series, so you can quite easily pick this book up without having to have read the first book in the series. It reads as a complete standalone.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Claire and Cyrus are well-matched and learn important life lessons from the other. Claire shows Cyrus that women fully capable of making strategic and informed business decisions without help from men and Cyrus teaches Claire that she can fall in love and still maintain her independence. Theirs is a sweet, unexpected romance with a fun mystery to solve as the plot develops. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, there’s a great plot twist that will spin everything you think you know on its head.
I had no idea this was part of a series, so you can quite easily pick this book up without having to have read the first book in the series. It reads as a complete standalone.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 22, 2015
This is book 2 in the Midnight Meetings series.
Claire Mayhew wants nothing more than to open her shop and make a living. Unfortunately, the owner of the property she wants, won't rent to women. So she does the only thing that will get her that lease: she sneaks into the owner's home to find his signature and forges it on the documents saying that he approves of her having the lease. She didn't count on the man himself catching her in his home and her attraction to him.
Cyrus Ryland can't get the woman he found in his home out of his mind. He has searched all over London and she is nowhere to be found...that is until he happens to go into her coffee shop. He soon learns why she invaded his home that night, but it doesn't dim his curiosity about her.
As attracted to each other as they are, can these two find the love that neither of them was looking for?
I really enjoyed this story. It was nice to read a story that didn't involve members of the ton. You have two people just trying to make a place for themselves in the world and doing everything in their power to achieve it.
Claire was a very strong heroine. She left the employment of her best friend (Edward from Meet the Earl at Midnight) to have something of her own. She will do anything to achieve that goal, including showing up at a ball she was not invited to and forging a signature. Cyrus has worked his way up from nothing. He doesn't let anyone or anything get in his way. They make a formidable duo!
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Thanks go out to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
Claire Mayhew wants nothing more than to open her shop and make a living. Unfortunately, the owner of the property she wants, won't rent to women. So she does the only thing that will get her that lease: she sneaks into the owner's home to find his signature and forges it on the documents saying that he approves of her having the lease. She didn't count on the man himself catching her in his home and her attraction to him.
Cyrus Ryland can't get the woman he found in his home out of his mind. He has searched all over London and she is nowhere to be found...that is until he happens to go into her coffee shop. He soon learns why she invaded his home that night, but it doesn't dim his curiosity about her.
As attracted to each other as they are, can these two find the love that neither of them was looking for?
I really enjoyed this story. It was nice to read a story that didn't involve members of the ton. You have two people just trying to make a place for themselves in the world and doing everything in their power to achieve it.
Claire was a very strong heroine. She left the employment of her best friend (Edward from Meet the Earl at Midnight) to have something of her own. She will do anything to achieve that goal, including showing up at a ball she was not invited to and forging a signature. Cyrus has worked his way up from nothing. He doesn't let anyone or anything get in his way. They make a formidable duo!
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Thanks go out to Sourcebooks via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
February 25, 2015
**eARC for honest review via netgalley**
The Lady Meets Her Match follows the love story of Claire and Cyrus. What is quite refreshing in this book is the characters aren't titled or from a high parentage, they're common people and I really liked that. In a historical world drowned by lord and ladies, it felt really good to read for once a different story.
The Heroes
Claire is a determined, hard-working patroness who crosses the path of Cyrus, a stubborn and prejudice-filled King of Commerce as he refuses to let her etablish herself since she's an unmarried woman. Their conversations were full of wit and I really loved how both of them gained from this, how the characters actually evolved thanks to each others.
The writing
Gina Conkle has a knack for sassy dialogues and a quite flowery prose. It was very agreeable to read.
Overall
It was a good romance. I liked the second characters which just added more punch to the book.
The Lady Meets Her Match follows the love story of Claire and Cyrus. What is quite refreshing in this book is the characters aren't titled or from a high parentage, they're common people and I really liked that. In a historical world drowned by lord and ladies, it felt really good to read for once a different story.
The Heroes
Claire is a determined, hard-working patroness who crosses the path of Cyrus, a stubborn and prejudice-filled King of Commerce as he refuses to let her etablish herself since she's an unmarried woman. Their conversations were full of wit and I really loved how both of them gained from this, how the characters actually evolved thanks to each others.
The writing
Gina Conkle has a knack for sassy dialogues and a quite flowery prose. It was very agreeable to read.
Overall
It was a good romance. I liked the second characters which just added more punch to the book.
April 13, 2015
Claire Mayhew has jumped to the top of my favorite historical romance heroines. She is an independent woman that refuses to accept that she needs a man to life her life. But she does need a man to approve the lease of her store, and that man doesn't believe that women can be in business on their own.
Cyrus isn't a bad guy - he just holds view that most men of his time held. Women need to be married or living with a male relative to keep the out of trouble and protected. It may sound sweet, but I couldn't imagine actually living that way. When he falls for Claire and finds out who she really is, he makes it his mission to find a way to show her he's right.
Well, saying that doesn't go as planned would be quite the understatement. This may sound like a fluff plot, but dig just a bit deeper and we have a mystery, sabotage, and threats on people's life going on at the same time. All this is woven so beautifully together. One of the best and most original historical romances I've read in a long time
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Cyrus isn't a bad guy - he just holds view that most men of his time held. Women need to be married or living with a male relative to keep the out of trouble and protected. It may sound sweet, but I couldn't imagine actually living that way. When he falls for Claire and finds out who she really is, he makes it his mission to find a way to show her he's right.
Well, saying that doesn't go as planned would be quite the understatement. This may sound like a fluff plot, but dig just a bit deeper and we have a mystery, sabotage, and threats on people's life going on at the same time. All this is woven so beautifully together. One of the best and most original historical romances I've read in a long time
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
April 7, 2015
Dreams and desires________3.5 stars
1768 during the Georgian period. When a woman has a dream and wants to make an independent foray into the world of business all sorts of prejudices and people can be obstacles. When Claire Mayhew decides to take matters into her own hands life becomes very interesting for Cyrus Ryland, a wealthy merchant and businessman who strongly believes that women should be protected and that only men can and should prosper in commercial endeavours
Stealing into a man's house to further your cause amidst masked revellers might seem like a good idea but the unveiling at the stroke of midnight causes all sorts of problems. With nothing left of an encounter with a mysterious woman but a leather shoe one can be forgiven for thinking the world of fantasy and reality have interlocked. Certainly this slightly different Cinderella story is a satisfying read littered as it is with romance and intrigue.
A NetGalley ARC
1768 during the Georgian period. When a woman has a dream and wants to make an independent foray into the world of business all sorts of prejudices and people can be obstacles. When Claire Mayhew decides to take matters into her own hands life becomes very interesting for Cyrus Ryland, a wealthy merchant and businessman who strongly believes that women should be protected and that only men can and should prosper in commercial endeavours
Stealing into a man's house to further your cause amidst masked revellers might seem like a good idea but the unveiling at the stroke of midnight causes all sorts of problems. With nothing left of an encounter with a mysterious woman but a leather shoe one can be forgiven for thinking the world of fantasy and reality have interlocked. Certainly this slightly different Cinderella story is a satisfying read littered as it is with romance and intrigue.
A NetGalley ARC
April 16, 2015
Hott Review:
What I liked: The Lady Meets Her Match is quite fun. It begins with a bit of a Cinderella-ish scene and morphs into a great book. It is pretty steamy but mostly it’s just flirting. The steam doesn’t seem very graphic and that’s probably because of the verbiage Ms. Conkle used.
What I didn’t like: While The Lady Meets Her Match is a really good story I didn’t feel as immersed in it as I do many books. It was written in such a way that I didn’t feel like I was one of the characters (knowing their thoughts and feelings) but instead felt like I was watching a play.
I missed the first book in this series & need to grab it!
More…
Author: Gina Conkle
Source: Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley | This is a loan in exchange for an honest reviwe
Grade: B+
Ages: 18+
Steam: AMore than Adult but Less than Schorching… Somewhere above Rated R and R-17ish…
Setting: London, England 1738
What I liked: The Lady Meets Her Match is quite fun. It begins with a bit of a Cinderella-ish scene and morphs into a great book. It is pretty steamy but mostly it’s just flirting. The steam doesn’t seem very graphic and that’s probably because of the verbiage Ms. Conkle used.
What I didn’t like: While The Lady Meets Her Match is a really good story I didn’t feel as immersed in it as I do many books. It was written in such a way that I didn’t feel like I was one of the characters (knowing their thoughts and feelings) but instead felt like I was watching a play.
I missed the first book in this series & need to grab it!
More…
Author: Gina Conkle
Source: Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley | This is a loan in exchange for an honest reviwe
Grade: B+
Ages: 18+
Steam: AMore than Adult but Less than Schorching… Somewhere above Rated R and R-17ish…
Setting: London, England 1738
April 13, 2015
Cyrus is more cheeky than Edward, he's more blunt, "I don’t mix sex with business, Miss Mayhew.” His Midlands accent dropped to an intimate note. “But I’ll admit, I want to see your… accounts in full." He is just in awe with Claire, "I could watch you pin and unpin your hair… again and again and never get tired of the view,” he marveled." I just loved Cyrus, "I'm sure he did.” Cyrus let his lids fall shut again. “And since your hand is on my bare chest, we can dispense with proprieties. Call me Cyrus." As Claire gets more comfortable with Cyrus the bolder she becomes, "you have me nearly flat on my back, sir.” A lazy hand unloosed his waistcoat buttons. She opened his shirt and spread her fingers wide over his chest." I want the next book in this series now I'm loving it.
April 13, 2015
OH, LA, LA!
Granted, the French lady shows up very little, but she has as much depth as the hero. The hero (and his sister) are appropriately complicated, but the heroine - now that is a lovely lady with secrets.
The story starts as a simple love story, but quite suddenly, a layer of almost invisible darkness creeps in. As the book progresses, the love story intensifies, in an almost humorous manner. So does the suspense, until, finally, a dark mystery story is laid in over the love story. The resolution of both stories creates several poignant scenes that really tie up all the loose ends, and the epilogue puts on a final bit of icing.
Granted, the French lady shows up very little, but she has as much depth as the hero. The hero (and his sister) are appropriately complicated, but the heroine - now that is a lovely lady with secrets.
The story starts as a simple love story, but quite suddenly, a layer of almost invisible darkness creeps in. As the book progresses, the love story intensifies, in an almost humorous manner. So does the suspense, until, finally, a dark mystery story is laid in over the love story. The resolution of both stories creates several poignant scenes that really tie up all the loose ends, and the epilogue puts on a final bit of icing.
October 29, 2016
This started out so promisingly: for the first half of the book I was sure I'd found a new favorite author, but by the time I hit the last third of the story I was so ready for it to end. It just seemed to lose itself in a tangle of overwrought adjectives - or at least it lost my interest. I finished, just because I hate to abandon a book, but it was close.
December 5, 2017
I was so delighted to read about Claire Mayhew's story (Housekeeper from Meet an Earl at Midnight). I loved that this story was a Regency but the hero and heroine were not titled or members of the ton! They were both ordinary people who worked very hard to find their happily ever after. Claire wants to own and operate her coffee shop without a man. Unheard of, especially from the Landlord who believes no woman should be alone in business...Well he meets Claire and realizes she will do whatever is needed to make her business a success. He respects that and does his best to make sure he is apart of enterprises. She is a strong woman with a compassionate heart! He worked his way up to support a mother and seven sisters!! Seven! He is an envy of the nobility but only wants to find love and respect from Claire. They both work very hard to put all else aside and realize they can work together without the Ton's help or influence! Loved this story!
December 26, 2017
Fantastic Georgian Romantic Suspense.
I loved reading about two people who are not aristocrats in London where only one's aristocratic roots is valued. Cyrus pulled himself (and his family) up by his bootstraps. Now he's the King of Commerce. Yet, he has the "old-fashioned" attitude that women need protecting to the extent that a woman alone can't lease one of his buildings for a shop. All Claire needs is Cyrus' signature to open her tea shop, a signature she can forge if she has a sample. Breaking into his study while he's busy with a masquerade ball should be a piece of cake. Until he catches her.
I just discovered Gina Conkle's books. (Shame on me for not reading them sooner.) So intriguing and enticing. Strong characters, a suspenseful plot, and enough humor to lighten the tension. Ms. Conkle's books are a real treat.
I loved reading about two people who are not aristocrats in London where only one's aristocratic roots is valued. Cyrus pulled himself (and his family) up by his bootstraps. Now he's the King of Commerce. Yet, he has the "old-fashioned" attitude that women need protecting to the extent that a woman alone can't lease one of his buildings for a shop. All Claire needs is Cyrus' signature to open her tea shop, a signature she can forge if she has a sample. Breaking into his study while he's busy with a masquerade ball should be a piece of cake. Until he catches her.
I just discovered Gina Conkle's books. (Shame on me for not reading them sooner.) So intriguing and enticing. Strong characters, a suspenseful plot, and enough humor to lighten the tension. Ms. Conkle's books are a real treat.
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