What do you think?
Rate this book
The Heart of a Duke #6
The Heart of a Scoundrel
Ruthless, wicked, and dark, the Marquess of Rutland rouses terror in the breast of ladies and nobleman alike. All Edmund wants in life is power. After he was publically humiliated by his one love Lady Margaret, he vowed vengeance, using Margaret’s niece, as his pawn. Except, he’s thwarted by another, more enticing target—Miss Phoebe Barrett. Miss Phoebe Barrett knows precisely the shame she’s been born to. Because her father is a shocking letch she’s learned to form her own opinions on a person’s worth. After a chance meeting with the Marquess of Rutland, she is captivated by the mysterious man. He, too, is a victim of society’s scorn, but the more encounters she has with Edmund, the more she knows there is powerful depth and emotion to the jaded marquess. The lady wreaks havoc on Edmund’s plans for revenge and he finds he wants Phoebe, at all costs. As she’s drawn into the darkness of his world, Phoebe risks being destroyed by Edmund’s ruthlessness. And Phoebe who desires love at all costs, has to determine if she can ever truly trust the heart of a scoundrel.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2015
1003 people are currently reading
901 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,564 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
November 20, 2017
Surprisingly, this one is quite good:)
The hero is really a bad news and he true to his characters till almost end 😜
The guy didn’t know what to do when he found himself fall in love to the innocent chit, lol.
At the beginning I rather unhappy with the heroine’s naiveness but before half the book, her rose tinted glasses had been broken, after that the story is really good:)
I didn’t plan to read this book, what I wanted to read is this one, The Spy Who Seduced Her, which is the story of this heroine’s mother. Yes, the story with a mature couple which is very rare in Historical Romance, but from peek that book little bit, I feels like I need to read this one first and I’m happy I did it:)
Btw, I listened audiobook version, the Male narrator sounds like Julian Clary in Little Princess!:)
But sadly, he wasn’t him..
The hero is really a bad news and he true to his characters till almost end 😜
The guy didn’t know what to do when he found himself fall in love to the innocent chit, lol.
At the beginning I rather unhappy with the heroine’s naiveness but before half the book, her rose tinted glasses had been broken, after that the story is really good:)
I didn’t plan to read this book, what I wanted to read is this one, The Spy Who Seduced Her, which is the story of this heroine’s mother. Yes, the story with a mature couple which is very rare in Historical Romance, but from peek that book little bit, I feels like I need to read this one first and I’m happy I did it:)
Btw, I listened audiobook version, the Male narrator sounds like Julian Clary in Little Princess!:)
But sadly, he wasn’t him..
November 22, 2015
SLOW AND BORING!!
I didn't care about the H/H they both got on my nerves. Phoebe because she expected Edmund the Marquess Rutland to change from a cynical revengeful man to some drooling fool, because he loved her. I didn't care about Edmund because he should have know Phoebe couldn't see his pain and only thought about her own disappointment in him. With friends like Phoebe has she didn't need any enemies. Gillian and Honoria never gave her sound good advice, they just talked her out of trying to trust her love for her husband and give him time to change. Edmund never hurt or mistreated her. I just wished he would have set her straight and walked away from her. But of course he wanted her and had to have her. I got so sick of hearing this over and over and over!! The storyline is very repetitive. .The story is slow and boring. Just a Saga of there painful sexual attraction to each other. It was not a joyful or feel good storyline, Unnecessary attempted rape scene. Slow and boring.
I didn't care about the H/H they both got on my nerves. Phoebe because she expected Edmund the Marquess Rutland to change from a cynical revengeful man to some drooling fool, because he loved her. I didn't care about Edmund because he should have know Phoebe couldn't see his pain and only thought about her own disappointment in him. With friends like Phoebe has she didn't need any enemies. Gillian and Honoria never gave her sound good advice, they just talked her out of trying to trust her love for her husband and give him time to change. Edmund never hurt or mistreated her. I just wished he would have set her straight and walked away from her. But of course he wanted her and had to have her. I got so sick of hearing this over and over and over!! The storyline is very repetitive. .The story is slow and boring. Just a Saga of there painful sexual attraction to each other. It was not a joyful or feel good storyline, Unnecessary attempted rape scene. Slow and boring.
October 16, 2015
Okay so Edmund, the Marquess of Rutland has pretty much been a totally detestable man and he relishes in that fact. He has not real friends and seemingly couldn't care less. Thoughts of seeking revenge on his lost love fuel his every breath. Mamas of the ton keep their daughters far away from him and he has no qualms about that either. His plan involves his former love's niece and ruination, but the niece is one tough cookie, cynical and not easily swayed. Enter Miss Phoebe Barrett, one of the nieces best friends and someone Edmund is drawn to with her unconventional
Miss Phoebe Barrett is not a young woman who has blinders on. She knows what the world thinks of her and her family, thanks to her deviant of a father who selfishly thinks only of his own pleasures. Phoebe is resigned to the spinster life as long as it will keep her free from degenerate males. Meeting Rutland, however sparks an interest in Phoebe, who after hearing all the gossip believes they are alike in some ways.
Rutland decides to use Phoebe in his despicable plan of revenge, but his twisted sense of vindictiveness does a major backfire when he comes to understand that Phoebe is not only a exceptional young woman, but the object of his deeply hidden desires. After all the wrongs Rutland has committed, the man actually has a conscience and Phoebe brings that conscience out like no other woman could ever attempt. But Phoebe wants love and Rutland doesn't believe in it. What will it take for the scoundrel and the rare young miss to come to terms with what is right in front of them? Well, that would be an ending that only and author like Christi Caldwell can tell.
THE HEART OF A SCOUNDREL by the exceptionally talented Christi Caldwell is perfection in the form of novel. I can honestly say that since I began reading her books only a few scant months ago, that I have been awed by each and every tale she writes. Meeting this odious man in MORE THAN A DUKE evoked such feelings in this reader that I knew he had to have his own book. Rutland;s redemption is difficult task that Ms. Caldwell achieves with such finesse. Phoebe is one heroine to be admired. Her life hasn't been an easy one with the daily disgraces her sire commits, but she rises above all without pity or distress. One of the most memorable scenes for me is when former rogue, the Earl of Stanhope gives the conflicted Rutland a talking to that changes his perception completely and opens him to finally feel. Stories like this stay with you. Timeless as well as entertaining. Christi Caldwell reminds me of one of my favorite authors, Bertrice Small, whose tales have woven a web into my imagination as Ms. Caldwell now does as well.
October 10, 2015
I WILL NEVER GET ENOUGH!!! (**********)
Christi Caldwell creates heroes and heroines who have very human faults. Indeed, her books could be seen as psychological investigations into how to endure unpleasantness, and how to turn bad guys into great men. They delve into what bad experiences can do, quite often experiences that come out of nowhere and hit people who should not have been victims. Quite often, the success of the story hinges on someone teaching the erstwhile victim that they can find happiness, even if it has to be specifically adapted to their circumstances.
Writing that story is where Christi Caldwell shines.
No more!
Yes, Rutland started out as the nastiest gentleman in the town, and yes, he initially saw our salient heroine as just another step on the way to the ultimate get even. But he...failed.
No more.
The characters are standard Christi Caldwell. Strong women, dark men, the odd loathsome villain. The worst villain is made all the worse by his actual role. Fractured personalities and people who have managed to be whole despite pain. The underlying question of what makes a good person or a villain, even if they seem to have had many of the same experiences.
No more..
Potential spoilers...
The plot-to step toward the future, ultimately. Once again, Ms Caldwell teases us. Which heroine. How? Where, when, why.. and how will the man be redeemed. Frankly, even though I know the plot, I was worried about his redemption.
No more...
Like all of Christi's books, the story has a wounded hero, and like many wounded animals, he lashes out. Somewhere in the story, he starts to be involved in the "look of longing" the younger sister talks about, and from there on -
Ah, no more!
With the love of a lady, and a step toward the future, the heart of a scoundrel was gifted to a lady. Who used her womanly wit and wisdom to change a man's weaknesses to strengths.
Christi Caldwell creates heroes and heroines who have very human faults. Indeed, her books could be seen as psychological investigations into how to endure unpleasantness, and how to turn bad guys into great men. They delve into what bad experiences can do, quite often experiences that come out of nowhere and hit people who should not have been victims. Quite often, the success of the story hinges on someone teaching the erstwhile victim that they can find happiness, even if it has to be specifically adapted to their circumstances.
Writing that story is where Christi Caldwell shines.
No more!
Yes, Rutland started out as the nastiest gentleman in the town, and yes, he initially saw our salient heroine as just another step on the way to the ultimate get even. But he...failed.
No more.
The characters are standard Christi Caldwell. Strong women, dark men, the odd loathsome villain. The worst villain is made all the worse by his actual role. Fractured personalities and people who have managed to be whole despite pain. The underlying question of what makes a good person or a villain, even if they seem to have had many of the same experiences.
No more..
Potential spoilers...
The plot-to step toward the future, ultimately. Once again, Ms Caldwell teases us. Which heroine. How? Where, when, why.. and how will the man be redeemed. Frankly, even though I know the plot, I was worried about his redemption.
No more...
Like all of Christi's books, the story has a wounded hero, and like many wounded animals, he lashes out. Somewhere in the story, he starts to be involved in the "look of longing" the younger sister talks about, and from there on -
Ah, no more!
With the love of a lady, and a step toward the future, the heart of a scoundrel was gifted to a lady. Who used her womanly wit and wisdom to change a man's weaknesses to strengths.
January 13, 2016
This book started in a rather dubious manner with, Edmund, the Marquis of Rutland acting the role of villain, plotting the seduction and ill use of a young innocent lady, bosom friend of ever dreamy and effervescent Phoebe. While I love dark and tortured heroes, Edmund took it to dramatic extremes, being a caricature of the devil incarnate, complete with obligatory mad evil laughter into the darkness. Phoebe was his polar opposite with her light and perpetually happy disposition. It is a Beauty and the Beast story where beauty and beastliness pertained not to their outward appearances but their souls. As with this author's other books, this story took an angsty turn as Edmund tried in vain to dampen Phoebe's brightness and warmth, and then slowly found that he craved the source of her heat and illumination and that he desperately needed her to guide him out of the darkness he had been in for most of his life.
February 4, 2019
The Heart of a Scoundrel is book 6 in The Heart of the Duke series. Although these books can be read as stand alone stories, they are much richer read in order. The characters are often entwined. In this book, Caldwell takes a wretched villain and transforms him into a hero. I thought this work was masterfully written and very believable. There are some very steamy scenes in it. However, they flow with the story line. The beginning was a bit confusing for me, but once I got passed chapter 4 the story began to flow.
“Then a gentleman of his stunning beauty well knew the risk faced of being discovered, unchaperoned with a lady. He had the face and form that hinted at a masculine perfection that made a lady do foolish things.such as forgetting she was alone. With a gentleman. In a garden. Under the moonlight.”
Looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
“Then a gentleman of his stunning beauty well knew the risk faced of being discovered, unchaperoned with a lady. He had the face and form that hinted at a masculine perfection that made a lady do foolish things.such as forgetting she was alone. With a gentleman. In a garden. Under the moonlight.”
Looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
April 4, 2017
Great redemption story. Loved the dark H and how she made him a better man. I loved all their interactions. I hated his man ho past though and it caused so much angst. I hated the references to it too. If I hadn't seen how much he loved her it would tarnish the boomer e. But he truly loved her. So much.
December 15, 2018
3.5/5 Stars
Review to come soon.
Review to come soon.
December 5, 2017
Love this book
This is my second read of The Heart Of. Scoundrel! I can’t believe I didn’t review it the first time! I love all of this authors books and highly recommend them. Edmund is a hard hero to like in other stories yet Phoebe wins his cold heart and shows him how love makes you stronger not weaker. He has become one of my favorite heroes!
This is my second read of The Heart Of. Scoundrel! I can’t believe I didn’t review it the first time! I love all of this authors books and highly recommend them. Edmund is a hard hero to like in other stories yet Phoebe wins his cold heart and shows him how love makes you stronger not weaker. He has become one of my favorite heroes!
did-not-finish
October 8, 2022DNF
Didn't feel the connection between the hero and the heroine; she's falling for him already for no clear reason and as much as I was intrigued to maybe continue because his motives are so very evil, I was sick of hearing about his evil intentions (which seem way over the top, just because a woman rejected him once; geez, get over yourself) and didn't understand her her developing feelings for him. Instead, read the below Caldwell books.
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (4 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
Didn't feel the connection between the hero and the heroine; she's falling for him already for no clear reason and as much as I was intrigued to maybe continue because his motives are so very evil, I was sick of hearing about his evil intentions (which seem way over the top, just because a woman rejected him once; geez, get over yourself) and didn't understand her her developing feelings for him. Instead, read the below Caldwell books.
Caldwell's Sinful Brides Series
Book 1 — The Rogue's Wager (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Scoundrel's Honor (4 stars)
Book 3 — The Lady's Guard (4-4.5 stars)
Book 4 — The Heiress's Deception (4 stars)
Caldwell's Wicked Wallflowers Series
Book 1 — The Hellion (4 stars)
Book 2 — The Vixen (4.5 stars)
Book 3 — The Governess (TBR)
Book 4 — The Bluestocking (4.5 stars)
Book 5 — The Spitfire (TBR)
Other Caldwell Books I've Loved (and Enjoyed Out of Order)
The Lady Who Loved Him (The Brethren, #2) — 4.5 stars
Tempted by a Lady's Smile (Lords of Honor, #4) — 4 stars
To Tempt a Scoundrel (The Heart of a Duke, #15) — 4 stars
May 21, 2020
Die Geschichten der Autorin habe mir bisher immer richtig gut gefallen, leichte Unterhaltung mit Humor und mitunter auch Spannung. Zufällig habe ich nun dieses Buch auf meinem eReader entdeckt und es nun endlich gelesen. Enttäuscht wurde ich nicht.
Edmund hat einen Plan und zwar will er das Leben einer jungen Frau ruinieren, damit sie ihn heiraten muss. Die Idee klingt aus seiner Sicht vielversprechend, aber da taucht Phoebe auf und zwischen den beiden knistert es von Beginn an. Leider hat aber Phoebe nicht unbedingt die Herkunft, die sich Edmund wünscht.
Das Buch war toll. Es ist aus meiner Sicht ein typischer Vertreter eines historischen Romans. Die Autorin greift die Thematik der Heirat auf und wie diese damals geplant wurden und wie sich doch jeder gewünscht hat eine gute Partie zu machen. Stellenweise war dies hier sehr amüsant, denn wer kommt auf die Idee seine zukünftige Partnerin zu ruinieren, damit sie gezwungen sein wird, der Heirat zuzustimmen. Viele Überraschungen gibt es nicht, aber dennoch wurde ich toll unterhalten. Es war doch richtig nett zu sehen, wie sich Edmund und Phoebe annähern und es doch ein paar kleinere Schwierigkeiten gibt.
Die Geschichte spielt in London und wurde durch viele Details interessant und realistisch beschrieben. Mir hat die Atmosphäre sehr gut gefallen und ich konnte so wirklich gut in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Die Charaktere waren toll gezeichnet und Phoebe und Edmund waren überzeugend. Beide machten einen sympathischen Eindruck und gerade Phoebe fand ich richtig klasse.
Der Schreibstil war wunderbar. Alles war sehr einfach gehalten und ich bin so regelrecht durch die Geschichte geflogen. Alles war plausibel und gut nachvollziehbar. Die Handlung wird aus wechselnder Perspektive der beiden Hauptprotagonisten erzählt, was schön vielfältig war.
Das Cover ist recht stimmig zum Inhalt gestaltet und gefällt mir gut.
Fazit:
Reizender historischer Liebesroman. Gefällt mir gut und kann ich weiterempfehlen.
5 von 5 Sterne
Edmund hat einen Plan und zwar will er das Leben einer jungen Frau ruinieren, damit sie ihn heiraten muss. Die Idee klingt aus seiner Sicht vielversprechend, aber da taucht Phoebe auf und zwischen den beiden knistert es von Beginn an. Leider hat aber Phoebe nicht unbedingt die Herkunft, die sich Edmund wünscht.
Das Buch war toll. Es ist aus meiner Sicht ein typischer Vertreter eines historischen Romans. Die Autorin greift die Thematik der Heirat auf und wie diese damals geplant wurden und wie sich doch jeder gewünscht hat eine gute Partie zu machen. Stellenweise war dies hier sehr amüsant, denn wer kommt auf die Idee seine zukünftige Partnerin zu ruinieren, damit sie gezwungen sein wird, der Heirat zuzustimmen. Viele Überraschungen gibt es nicht, aber dennoch wurde ich toll unterhalten. Es war doch richtig nett zu sehen, wie sich Edmund und Phoebe annähern und es doch ein paar kleinere Schwierigkeiten gibt.
Die Geschichte spielt in London und wurde durch viele Details interessant und realistisch beschrieben. Mir hat die Atmosphäre sehr gut gefallen und ich konnte so wirklich gut in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Die Charaktere waren toll gezeichnet und Phoebe und Edmund waren überzeugend. Beide machten einen sympathischen Eindruck und gerade Phoebe fand ich richtig klasse.
Der Schreibstil war wunderbar. Alles war sehr einfach gehalten und ich bin so regelrecht durch die Geschichte geflogen. Alles war plausibel und gut nachvollziehbar. Die Handlung wird aus wechselnder Perspektive der beiden Hauptprotagonisten erzählt, was schön vielfältig war.
Das Cover ist recht stimmig zum Inhalt gestaltet und gefällt mir gut.
Fazit:
Reizender historischer Liebesroman. Gefällt mir gut und kann ich weiterempfehlen.
5 von 5 Sterne
December 15, 2021
Surprisingly, this was quite good. And after this one, I think I've exhausted all of Christi Caldwell's better books (unless you my fellow readers could sway me otherwise hehe).
Edmund had always been feared as the most ruthless man by the ton ... as he should be; he kept tabs of everyone's weaknesses and debts. It's no wonder no one dared to even look his way. He had one more revenge to exact; ruin the niece of a lady who once broke his heart and hurt the whole family. Only, his plan was wholly thwarted when he met Phoebe Barrett.
Phoebe was the naive, kind lady who, despite having a lecherous and despicable father, did not grow up to be a bitter person. She believed good in everyone. So when she met Edmund, she fell in love with him, not knowing who he was (and not caring).
The whole book was about 300 or so pages with some sexy times. Loved the misunderstandings (you know ... the one where one thought the other didn't love him/ her or did not care but in actuality, they cared). Quite good, I must say, just lacking a bit of angst (wished there were more).
Edmund had always been feared as the most ruthless man by the ton ... as he should be; he kept tabs of everyone's weaknesses and debts. It's no wonder no one dared to even look his way. He had one more revenge to exact; ruin the niece of a lady who once broke his heart and hurt the whole family. Only, his plan was wholly thwarted when he met Phoebe Barrett.
Phoebe was the naive, kind lady who, despite having a lecherous and despicable father, did not grow up to be a bitter person. She believed good in everyone. So when she met Edmund, she fell in love with him, not knowing who he was (and not caring).
The whole book was about 300 or so pages with some sexy times. Loved the misunderstandings (you know ... the one where one thought the other didn't love him/ her or did not care but in actuality, they cared). Quite good, I must say, just lacking a bit of angst (wished there were more).
July 3, 2022
I’m pretty much in love with the story. Edmund had been an annoying character since the start of the series. I’ve waited for his story to come because I wanna know how this ruthless man meet his downfall, and I absolutely loved Phoebe. While she might be a little naive, the innocence countered Edmund. Something about Phoebe just attracts Edmund and he soon falls in love with the person he was supposed to use for revenge. I think Edmund being Edmund made me want his happily ever after even more than the other books in this series. I wanted him to have the happiness he didn’t experience in his childhood, and for Phoebe to erase his loneliness. Phoebe, despite having a horrible father, completely believes in love and had believed she would marry for love. When she meets Edmund, she wasn’t aware of his reputation and even when people warned her, Phoebe didn’t care. She wanted to know him through their interactions and not a third party’s comment.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Heart of a Scoundrel. It was a delight!
Overall, I really enjoyed The Heart of a Scoundrel. It was a delight!
March 13, 2023
This the 6 th in the series. The h Phoebe Barrett and the H Edmund Deering the dreaded Marquess of Rutland. Phoebe is the eldest daughter of Viscount Waters who is a venerate gambler drunkard and whoremonger and has shamed his wife and family. Marquess of Rutland has been in book two and book three as the cold calculating revengeful rakehell.
Phoebe is seduced by Edmund and falls for him. Everyone warns her about his dark soul but she sees something good in him.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Phoebe is seduced by Edmund and falls for him. Everyone warns her about his dark soul but she sees something good in him.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 28, 2025
This was very poorly written. It’s WAY overwritten, like the author was purposely padding to make up the pages, and the plot is lacklustre and extremely repetitive. I think if this was edited down to remove the repetition, this would be a 60 page novella.
I think i found this on a “gut-punch moment” or “grovel” recommendation list and this book does not deliver on either of these. I wouldn’t read this author again.
I think i found this on a “gut-punch moment” or “grovel” recommendation list and this book does not deliver on either of these. I wouldn’t read this author again.
October 15, 2020
Phoebe and Edmund. Young and sweet Phoebe. Edmund-revenge seeking for a lost love from 11 years ago.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2015
I am super excited to be reviewing The Heart of a Scoundrel or as I like to call it Rutland’s Book! That’s right, Rutland finally meets his match!
Edmund; Marquess of Rutland is hell bent on revenge! Ever since a failed duel several years ago, Rutland has planned to destroy everyone he feels has crossed him. Now he has set his sights on the niece of the women that he entered the duel for…and the women that disregarded him, so he plans on getting close to the niece through her pretty friend. He owns her father, so why not use the chit! But he wasn’t expecting Miss Phoebe Barrett and the effect that she would have upon him.
Phoebe Barrett lives in constant shame! Shame of her father brings upon them, he is a disgusting man who doesn’t care for any of them, but gambles away their fortune and betrayals her mother with women of the night. But despite all this, Phoebe see the good in everyone (except her father), so when Rutland shows an interest in her; she looks for the good in him and allows herself to fall in love with him. But then Phoebe finds out the real reason Rutland is interested in her and she is absolutely devastated and wants nothing more to do with him, but Rutland blackmails her into staying with him.
Now Rutland has a wife, but the light within her has vanished; he doesn’t understand why he cares so much, but it all becomes clear when an enemy attacks Phoebe…but is it too late!
This truly is THE BEST Christi Caldwell book to date! This is the bad guy with a heart book and you honestly cannot stop yourself from caring for Rutland! Even though I truly think all of the characters in this book are amazing! The one who stands out the most is Andrew! Oh my goodness I crack up at his antics!
The book was beautifully written and without a plot hole to be found! The characters jump off the page at you and at times, the story simply blew my mind! By the end of the book, I was truly saddened to see these characters go.
I give this book 10 out of 10. It is a simply enchanting book; that proves everyone can find change in their heart.
Edmund; Marquess of Rutland is hell bent on revenge! Ever since a failed duel several years ago, Rutland has planned to destroy everyone he feels has crossed him. Now he has set his sights on the niece of the women that he entered the duel for…and the women that disregarded him, so he plans on getting close to the niece through her pretty friend. He owns her father, so why not use the chit! But he wasn’t expecting Miss Phoebe Barrett and the effect that she would have upon him.
Phoebe Barrett lives in constant shame! Shame of her father brings upon them, he is a disgusting man who doesn’t care for any of them, but gambles away their fortune and betrayals her mother with women of the night. But despite all this, Phoebe see the good in everyone (except her father), so when Rutland shows an interest in her; she looks for the good in him and allows herself to fall in love with him. But then Phoebe finds out the real reason Rutland is interested in her and she is absolutely devastated and wants nothing more to do with him, but Rutland blackmails her into staying with him.
Now Rutland has a wife, but the light within her has vanished; he doesn’t understand why he cares so much, but it all becomes clear when an enemy attacks Phoebe…but is it too late!
This truly is THE BEST Christi Caldwell book to date! This is the bad guy with a heart book and you honestly cannot stop yourself from caring for Rutland! Even though I truly think all of the characters in this book are amazing! The one who stands out the most is Andrew! Oh my goodness I crack up at his antics!
The book was beautifully written and without a plot hole to be found! The characters jump off the page at you and at times, the story simply blew my mind! By the end of the book, I was truly saddened to see these characters go.
I give this book 10 out of 10. It is a simply enchanting book; that proves everyone can find change in their heart.
July 25, 2017
The heart of a Scoundrel. Book 6
Of all of the Christi Caldwell series of "The Heart of a Duke" you are introduced to the character the Marquess of Rutland mostly in book 3, giving you a feeling of what this gentleman is like after being thrown over by a lady he loves who married a Duke and who played him against the Earl of Stanhope, whom he dueled thereby sustaining an injury. In the series, you see a very bitter and calculating individual, who is always trying to antagonize others. In Book 6, Heart of a Scoundrel, is his love story. Ms. Caldwell in this book has explicit sex scenes, but considering the character Rutland you expect it of him and his seduction of Phoebe, his heroine. I enjoyed the book as it gave the reason for his behavior, how he handled his feelings and what feelings he tried not to show as he wanted to maintain his ruthlessness and not show any weaknesses. Phoebe was also a strong character from her life experiences, who tries to help Rutland from being stuck in his quest of retribution. Excellent story and also excellent in the Audible book. Tim Campbell gives an excellent performance.
Of all of the Christi Caldwell series of "The Heart of a Duke" you are introduced to the character the Marquess of Rutland mostly in book 3, giving you a feeling of what this gentleman is like after being thrown over by a lady he loves who married a Duke and who played him against the Earl of Stanhope, whom he dueled thereby sustaining an injury. In the series, you see a very bitter and calculating individual, who is always trying to antagonize others. In Book 6, Heart of a Scoundrel, is his love story. Ms. Caldwell in this book has explicit sex scenes, but considering the character Rutland you expect it of him and his seduction of Phoebe, his heroine. I enjoyed the book as it gave the reason for his behavior, how he handled his feelings and what feelings he tried not to show as he wanted to maintain his ruthlessness and not show any weaknesses. Phoebe was also a strong character from her life experiences, who tries to help Rutland from being stuck in his quest of retribution. Excellent story and also excellent in the Audible book. Tim Campbell gives an excellent performance.
October 9, 2015
I have been waiting for the Marquess of Rutland's story to be told since we first met him in "More Than a Duke", where we caught a glimpse that there was more to him than just villainy. The wait was very much worth it.
Ms. Caldwell did an amazing job of telling his story and letting us see inside this supposedly heartless man. This isn't the sweet, pulling at your heartstrings, story that we have come to expect from this author. This villain turned hero has quite the journey to undertake and the road isn't smoothly paved but it is made a little easier when, the wonderfully written, Miss Phoebe Barrett chooses to go on the journey with him.
While this isn't your typical redemption story, it is a beautifully written tale of two people opening their hearts to love. And in my opinion, this is Christi Caldwell's Best Book to date, and I have read them all.
Ms. Caldwell did an amazing job of telling his story and letting us see inside this supposedly heartless man. This isn't the sweet, pulling at your heartstrings, story that we have come to expect from this author. This villain turned hero has quite the journey to undertake and the road isn't smoothly paved but it is made a little easier when, the wonderfully written, Miss Phoebe Barrett chooses to go on the journey with him.
While this isn't your typical redemption story, it is a beautifully written tale of two people opening their hearts to love. And in my opinion, this is Christi Caldwell's Best Book to date, and I have read them all.
October 29, 2015
WOW!! Another awesome read for Ms. Caldwell! Fast paced and exciting. A heartwarming tale with a dark side. The characters are engaging, endearing, challenging and passionate. The storyline is unique and intriguing. A must read story! Once again, Ms. Caldwell pulls her readers into this amazing tale and holds them in awe. I absolutely loved this story! Simply put, awesome, awesome read! Highly recommended!
Thank you, Ms. Caldwell, for writing such brilliantly written stories for fans like myself, who adore reading Historical Romance written with such aplomp and detail to history. Another must read by Ms. Caldwell!
* Personal Buy *
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Thank you, Ms. Caldwell, for writing such brilliantly written stories for fans like myself, who adore reading Historical Romance written with such aplomp and detail to history. Another must read by Ms. Caldwell!
* Personal Buy *
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
August 4, 2017
I felt the story dragged a little after they got married.
August 18, 2018
Ich habe über die Jahre hinweg sicherlich einige Bücher von Christi Caldwell gelesen allerdings alle auf Englisch, daher war dies doch eine wesentliche Umstellung für mich, da es für viele englische Begriffe keine passende Übersetzung (meiner Meinung nach) gibt.
Dieser Band ist der 6. In der „The Heart of a Duke”-Reihe und da wiederkehrende Personen vorkommen und Anspielungen auf die Vergangenheit der einzelnen Charaktere gemacht werden, erweist es sich sicherlich als hilfreich, wenn man die Bücher in der passenden Reihenfolge liest, auch wenn dies nicht unbedingt notwendig ist. Der Originaltitel lautet: The Heart of a Scoundrel.
Die Geschichte beginnt relativ einfach. Drei Freundinnen, alle ledig und nicht im großen Rahmen interessiert daran, sich einfach vermählen zu lassen, sind beisammen – Gillian, Honora und Phoebe. Phoebe, die weibliche Protagonistin der Geschichte, weiß über die unglückliche Ehe ihrer Eltern Bescheid, auch über den Schuldenberg des Vaters und seine Leichtsinnigkeit.
Der Marquess of Ruthland, Edmund, sieht seine große Chance im Leben darin, genau über die Schwächen seiner Mitmenschen Bescheid zu wissen. Wenn er sich an einen Pokertisch mit einem Lord setzt, weiß er genau, was dieser zu verlieren hat bzw. was er von ihm gewinnen kann. Ein Landhaus dort, eine Mitgift da. Doch es gibt etwas, das er noch nicht vollführt hat – seine Rache an Lady Margaret, um die er einst in einem Duell gekämpft hatte. Und um diese Rache durchzuführen, ist sein Plan, die geliebte Nichte der Lady zu verführen, sie zu heiraten, um Margaret einen Strich durch die Rechnung zu ziehen. Diese Idee geht so lange gut, bis er Phoebe kennenlernt, die er anfänglich für eine ihrer Freundinnen gehalten hat.
Ruthland eilt ein entsprechender Ruf voraus – kalt, berechnend, süchtig nach Macht und Geld. Er war niemand, mit dem man seine Tochter vor den Traualter schreiten sehen wollte. Doch sieht Phoebe etwas an und in ihm – etwas, das er vortäuscht, um seinem Ziel näher zu kommen.
Doch kann er ihrem Lächeln entgehen? Kann er sich rechtzeitig aus seinen eigenen Intrigen retten, ohne selbst draufzuzahlen?
Ein schön geschriebener Roman ohne wesentliche Längen. Ich muss allerdings zugeben, dass mich gegen Ende des Werkes beide Protagonisten schon etwas genervt haben, da sie nicht realistisch wirkten im Gegensatz zum Anfang. Herrscht nächtens unglaubliche Leidenschaft zwischen ihnen, gehen sie einander untertags entsprechend aus dem Weg. Auch wenn Ruthland vorhat, keine Geheimnisse vor Phoene zu haben, hat er sie.
Witzig sind die Butler, zwei alte Herren – einer im Hause von Phoebes Vater und einer in Ruthlands. So zu sagen ein „kleines Schmankerl“.
Alles in allem: 4 Sterne
*Ich habe das Buch von Netgalley zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen im Tausch gegen eine faire Review*
Dieser Band ist der 6. In der „The Heart of a Duke”-Reihe und da wiederkehrende Personen vorkommen und Anspielungen auf die Vergangenheit der einzelnen Charaktere gemacht werden, erweist es sich sicherlich als hilfreich, wenn man die Bücher in der passenden Reihenfolge liest, auch wenn dies nicht unbedingt notwendig ist. Der Originaltitel lautet: The Heart of a Scoundrel.
Die Geschichte beginnt relativ einfach. Drei Freundinnen, alle ledig und nicht im großen Rahmen interessiert daran, sich einfach vermählen zu lassen, sind beisammen – Gillian, Honora und Phoebe. Phoebe, die weibliche Protagonistin der Geschichte, weiß über die unglückliche Ehe ihrer Eltern Bescheid, auch über den Schuldenberg des Vaters und seine Leichtsinnigkeit.
Der Marquess of Ruthland, Edmund, sieht seine große Chance im Leben darin, genau über die Schwächen seiner Mitmenschen Bescheid zu wissen. Wenn er sich an einen Pokertisch mit einem Lord setzt, weiß er genau, was dieser zu verlieren hat bzw. was er von ihm gewinnen kann. Ein Landhaus dort, eine Mitgift da. Doch es gibt etwas, das er noch nicht vollführt hat – seine Rache an Lady Margaret, um die er einst in einem Duell gekämpft hatte. Und um diese Rache durchzuführen, ist sein Plan, die geliebte Nichte der Lady zu verführen, sie zu heiraten, um Margaret einen Strich durch die Rechnung zu ziehen. Diese Idee geht so lange gut, bis er Phoebe kennenlernt, die er anfänglich für eine ihrer Freundinnen gehalten hat.
Ruthland eilt ein entsprechender Ruf voraus – kalt, berechnend, süchtig nach Macht und Geld. Er war niemand, mit dem man seine Tochter vor den Traualter schreiten sehen wollte. Doch sieht Phoebe etwas an und in ihm – etwas, das er vortäuscht, um seinem Ziel näher zu kommen.
Doch kann er ihrem Lächeln entgehen? Kann er sich rechtzeitig aus seinen eigenen Intrigen retten, ohne selbst draufzuzahlen?
Ein schön geschriebener Roman ohne wesentliche Längen. Ich muss allerdings zugeben, dass mich gegen Ende des Werkes beide Protagonisten schon etwas genervt haben, da sie nicht realistisch wirkten im Gegensatz zum Anfang. Herrscht nächtens unglaubliche Leidenschaft zwischen ihnen, gehen sie einander untertags entsprechend aus dem Weg. Auch wenn Ruthland vorhat, keine Geheimnisse vor Phoene zu haben, hat er sie.
Witzig sind die Butler, zwei alte Herren – einer im Hause von Phoebes Vater und einer in Ruthlands. So zu sagen ein „kleines Schmankerl“.
Alles in allem: 4 Sterne
*Ich habe das Buch von Netgalley zur Verfügung gestellt bekommen im Tausch gegen eine faire Review*
August 28, 2018
Die Begierde des Herzogs
von Christi Caldwell
Amazon Publishing Deutschland
Cover:
Typisches Cover für historische Liebesromane.
Rezension:
"Edmund Deering, Marquis of Rutland, kennt nur ein Verlangen: Das Leben der Frau zu ruinieren, die ihm sein Herz gebrochen hat. Doch dann kreuzt die junge Miss Phoebe Barrett seinen Weg, und nichts ist mehr, wie es war. Phoebe ist durch ihren skandalträchtigen Vater häufig selbst Ziel des Klatsches der guten Gesellschaft. Als sie zufällig dem finsteren Marquis begegnet, ist sie sogleich von ihm fasziniert und erkennt, dass er wie sie selbst das Opfer vorschneller Verurteilung geworden ist. Je mehr Zeit sie mit dem attraktiven Nobelmann verbringt, desto gefährlicher wird er für ihre Seelenruhe und ihr Herz. Ehe Edmund sichs versieht, macht die bezaubernde Phoebe mit all seinen sorgsam geschmiedeten Plänen kurzen Prozess. Aber dann wirft seine düstere Vergangenheit Schatten auf ihr gemeinsames Schicksal. Kann Edmund sie und damit auch seine einzige Chance auf Liebe und Glück retten?"
Für mich war es der erste Band aus dieser Reihe. Es handelt sich hier um den 6. Teil. Daher waren mir auch noch keine der Charaktere bekannt und auch keinerlei Hintergrundwissen vorhanden, so dass ich vorbehaltlos ans Lesen gehen konnte. Die Charaktere im Buch wirken in den ersten 2/3 des Buches ziemlich authentisch und man kann sie mögen. Gegen Ende des Buches hatte ich aber das Gefühl, dass sie mich anfangen ein wenig zu nerven und unrealistischer rüber kamen. Dies kann jedoch auch nur meine Meinung sein. Die Handlung ist nicht unbedingt neu aber der Plot weist keine Längen auf, so dass weder der Schreibstil noch der Lesefluss beeinträchtigt wurden. Positiv heraus heben möchte ich gern zwei der Nebencharaktere, die beiden älteren Butler, die in den jeweiligen Häusern tätig sind. Sie haben mir wirklich Freude bereitet ihnen zu folgen. Was dem Buch auch noch etwas mehr Pluspunkte bescherte. Alles in allem ist dies ein Buch, welches sich schnell und leicht lesen lässt und dem Leser ein wenig den Alltag vergessen und träumen lässt. Eine leichte Lektüre für zwischendurch und Liebhaber historischer Liebesgeschichten. 3,5/5 Sterne
Ich bedanke mich bei Netgalley und Amazon Publishing für das Rezensionsexemplar und gebe gern meine realistische Meinung.
von Christi Caldwell
Amazon Publishing Deutschland
Cover:
Typisches Cover für historische Liebesromane.
Rezension:
"Edmund Deering, Marquis of Rutland, kennt nur ein Verlangen: Das Leben der Frau zu ruinieren, die ihm sein Herz gebrochen hat. Doch dann kreuzt die junge Miss Phoebe Barrett seinen Weg, und nichts ist mehr, wie es war. Phoebe ist durch ihren skandalträchtigen Vater häufig selbst Ziel des Klatsches der guten Gesellschaft. Als sie zufällig dem finsteren Marquis begegnet, ist sie sogleich von ihm fasziniert und erkennt, dass er wie sie selbst das Opfer vorschneller Verurteilung geworden ist. Je mehr Zeit sie mit dem attraktiven Nobelmann verbringt, desto gefährlicher wird er für ihre Seelenruhe und ihr Herz. Ehe Edmund sichs versieht, macht die bezaubernde Phoebe mit all seinen sorgsam geschmiedeten Plänen kurzen Prozess. Aber dann wirft seine düstere Vergangenheit Schatten auf ihr gemeinsames Schicksal. Kann Edmund sie und damit auch seine einzige Chance auf Liebe und Glück retten?"
Für mich war es der erste Band aus dieser Reihe. Es handelt sich hier um den 6. Teil. Daher waren mir auch noch keine der Charaktere bekannt und auch keinerlei Hintergrundwissen vorhanden, so dass ich vorbehaltlos ans Lesen gehen konnte. Die Charaktere im Buch wirken in den ersten 2/3 des Buches ziemlich authentisch und man kann sie mögen. Gegen Ende des Buches hatte ich aber das Gefühl, dass sie mich anfangen ein wenig zu nerven und unrealistischer rüber kamen. Dies kann jedoch auch nur meine Meinung sein. Die Handlung ist nicht unbedingt neu aber der Plot weist keine Längen auf, so dass weder der Schreibstil noch der Lesefluss beeinträchtigt wurden. Positiv heraus heben möchte ich gern zwei der Nebencharaktere, die beiden älteren Butler, die in den jeweiligen Häusern tätig sind. Sie haben mir wirklich Freude bereitet ihnen zu folgen. Was dem Buch auch noch etwas mehr Pluspunkte bescherte. Alles in allem ist dies ein Buch, welches sich schnell und leicht lesen lässt und dem Leser ein wenig den Alltag vergessen und träumen lässt. Eine leichte Lektüre für zwischendurch und Liebhaber historischer Liebesgeschichten. 3,5/5 Sterne
Ich bedanke mich bei Netgalley und Amazon Publishing für das Rezensionsexemplar und gebe gern meine realistische Meinung.
January 16, 2018
Another well written story by Christi Caldwell that will enrapture you from beginning to end.
Edmund, Marquess of Rutland is an angry, vengeful, black hearted man, hell bent on revenge. Growing up with two parents that had no love and enjoyed using him as a pawn to hurt each other, Edmund grew up with a lot of mental and emotional abuse and disheartened feeling towards love.
Phoebe Barrett is a lover of travel and history and the daughter of one of the tons most horrid letches..
.Will Phoebe be able change the heart of the Black Marquess or is she doomed to have her heart broken? Will Edmund stray from his plans of vengeance to capture Miss Phoebe or will he forgo any chance at happiness to seek the revenge he has been searching for all these years?
Christi Caldwell is known for her broken heroes/heroines and her stories are usually light. This time she has taken a step further and enters the dark side of a broken hero, a hero so far gone most would think he was beyond redemption. Christi has created a character that you want to hate and despise and smack silly most of the time and a heroine full of hope, desire to see the good in every one and a love so deep that could make any man want to change. Christi has always stayed true to her characters and once again she has accomplished the impossible. She shows the dark heart of Rutland that makes him so unlikable but at the same time she shows the true depth of the pain within his heart and you can’t help but want to hug him and sympathize with him. Christi has the uncanny ability to make her readers love and hope for redemption for her characters no matter how broken or dark or unforgivable their behavior may seem. Her heroines are usually just as broken and relatable as her heroes, and Phoebe follows that code. As scandalous as her father may be and as horrid as the gossips have been towards her, it doesn’t hold her back and make her any less loveable.
Edmund, Marquess of Rutland is an angry, vengeful, black hearted man, hell bent on revenge. Growing up with two parents that had no love and enjoyed using him as a pawn to hurt each other, Edmund grew up with a lot of mental and emotional abuse and disheartened feeling towards love.
Phoebe Barrett is a lover of travel and history and the daughter of one of the tons most horrid letches..
.Will Phoebe be able change the heart of the Black Marquess or is she doomed to have her heart broken? Will Edmund stray from his plans of vengeance to capture Miss Phoebe or will he forgo any chance at happiness to seek the revenge he has been searching for all these years?
Christi Caldwell is known for her broken heroes/heroines and her stories are usually light. This time she has taken a step further and enters the dark side of a broken hero, a hero so far gone most would think he was beyond redemption. Christi has created a character that you want to hate and despise and smack silly most of the time and a heroine full of hope, desire to see the good in every one and a love so deep that could make any man want to change. Christi has always stayed true to her characters and once again she has accomplished the impossible. She shows the dark heart of Rutland that makes him so unlikable but at the same time she shows the true depth of the pain within his heart and you can’t help but want to hug him and sympathize with him. Christi has the uncanny ability to make her readers love and hope for redemption for her characters no matter how broken or dark or unforgivable their behavior may seem. Her heroines are usually just as broken and relatable as her heroes, and Phoebe follows that code. As scandalous as her father may be and as horrid as the gossips have been towards her, it doesn’t hold her back and make her any less loveable.
July 12, 2017
Can I just say that out of all of Christi Caldwell's heroes, Edmund Deering, the Marquess of Rutland is my absolute favorite? I just want to get that out of the way.
I love this book. I love this book so much that I've read it multiple times. It's on auto repeat similar to a much loved song.
Let me tell you why. The character, Rutland, who was introduced in the novel, "More than a Duke," as a primary antagonist, is so complex.
It is my assertion that the antagonist in a well-written novel possesses, in many cases, more layers and more complexity than the protagonist. A skilled wordsmith will reveal those layers with finesse. This is exactly the case with Rutland.
Christi presents him to us as he is. He is a scary and powerful peer of the realm. He wields his power ruthlessly. People quake and stammer in his presence. At the same time, the author slowly peels back the layers and gives us the person underneath.
Enter our heroine, Miss Phoebe Barrett. A more unlikely pairing, you might never meet. Darkness meets light and light prevails. Christi excels in the art of taking broken, seemingly unredeemable characters and bringing them into the light. Rutland doesn't lose any of his power in the process. He simply becomes more.
As I stated earlier, Rutland is my personal favorite hero in Christi Caldwell's Regency HOAD world. I highly recommend this novel to all Regency readers. You will not be disappointed.
I love this book. I love this book so much that I've read it multiple times. It's on auto repeat similar to a much loved song.
Let me tell you why. The character, Rutland, who was introduced in the novel, "More than a Duke," as a primary antagonist, is so complex.
It is my assertion that the antagonist in a well-written novel possesses, in many cases, more layers and more complexity than the protagonist. A skilled wordsmith will reveal those layers with finesse. This is exactly the case with Rutland.
Christi presents him to us as he is. He is a scary and powerful peer of the realm. He wields his power ruthlessly. People quake and stammer in his presence. At the same time, the author slowly peels back the layers and gives us the person underneath.
Enter our heroine, Miss Phoebe Barrett. A more unlikely pairing, you might never meet. Darkness meets light and light prevails. Christi excels in the art of taking broken, seemingly unredeemable characters and bringing them into the light. Rutland doesn't lose any of his power in the process. He simply becomes more.
As I stated earlier, Rutland is my personal favorite hero in Christi Caldwell's Regency HOAD world. I highly recommend this novel to all Regency readers. You will not be disappointed.
March 3, 2019
I love Christi's books and am never disappointed as she always finds a way to grab and pull you and your emotions in to the story.
Our hero, Edmund, Marquess of Rutland, has been a broken, dark, miserable person since childhood and does not care whether the Ton likes him and all he desires is to drink, gamble and bed any women that want him - marital status not mattering.
He then meets our heroine, Miss Phoebe Barrett and she manages to upset his organized world. She forces him to look at his past and find ways to heal his dark, unloving and uncaring ways. Phoebe brings light to his otherwise dark life but will he ever be willing to admit it. She is such a strong young lady and even though she grew up with a disgusting, gambling, womanizing father, she still stays happy and positive. sudden he is struck dumbfounded by Miss Phoebe Barrett. She turns his world upside down. He is confronted with feelings he did not know how to handle. Phoebe is like a breath of fresh air in his stale life.
There were times in the story that I just wanted to smack Edmund over the head with a 2 X 4 to get his attention - but eventually he came around and I celebrated for Phoebe and Edmund's HEA. I highly recommend this book with all its up and down emotions - the entire series is a wonderful read!
Our hero, Edmund, Marquess of Rutland, has been a broken, dark, miserable person since childhood and does not care whether the Ton likes him and all he desires is to drink, gamble and bed any women that want him - marital status not mattering.
He then meets our heroine, Miss Phoebe Barrett and she manages to upset his organized world. She forces him to look at his past and find ways to heal his dark, unloving and uncaring ways. Phoebe brings light to his otherwise dark life but will he ever be willing to admit it. She is such a strong young lady and even though she grew up with a disgusting, gambling, womanizing father, she still stays happy and positive. sudden he is struck dumbfounded by Miss Phoebe Barrett. She turns his world upside down. He is confronted with feelings he did not know how to handle. Phoebe is like a breath of fresh air in his stale life.
There were times in the story that I just wanted to smack Edmund over the head with a 2 X 4 to get his attention - but eventually he came around and I celebrated for Phoebe and Edmund's HEA. I highly recommend this book with all its up and down emotions - the entire series is a wonderful read!
May 21, 2019
“We may have been gifted these hands by people we admire, abhor, or love, but ultimately they are our own hands and it is what we do with them that truly defines us.”
The Heart of a Scoundrel is book six in the Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. I don’t know which Christi Caldwell Family I like more, the Barretts or the Sinclairs. This is the first book where we meet the Barretts. Phoebe Barrett has nothing to feel optimistic, but she is. Her father has squandered the family fortune on drink and debauchery and her younger brother is determined to follow his path. Edmund Deering, The Marquess of Rutland, is out for revenge against his ex-lover. He thinks to seduce her niece, but Phoebe keeps getting in his way. At first, he thinks to use her to his advantage, but after continually spending time with her, Edmund becomes addicted to the happiness she brings him. But Edmund’s past actions get in the way and Phoebe almost becomes resigned to the fact that he’ll never change. We’ve seen sparks of humanity in Edmund in previous books, but I was truly happy to see him change and evolve with Phoebe’s love. No one had ever loved him before and that made all the difference. Love a good scoundrel turned hero.
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
The Heart of a Scoundrel is book six in the Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. I don’t know which Christi Caldwell Family I like more, the Barretts or the Sinclairs. This is the first book where we meet the Barretts. Phoebe Barrett has nothing to feel optimistic, but she is. Her father has squandered the family fortune on drink and debauchery and her younger brother is determined to follow his path. Edmund Deering, The Marquess of Rutland, is out for revenge against his ex-lover. He thinks to seduce her niece, but Phoebe keeps getting in his way. At first, he thinks to use her to his advantage, but after continually spending time with her, Edmund becomes addicted to the happiness she brings him. But Edmund’s past actions get in the way and Phoebe almost becomes resigned to the fact that he’ll never change. We’ve seen sparks of humanity in Edmund in previous books, but I was truly happy to see him change and evolve with Phoebe’s love. No one had ever loved him before and that made all the difference. Love a good scoundrel turned hero.
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
July 30, 2022
The plot is confusing: Edmund Deering, Marquess of Rutland, wants to take revenge on Margaret, so he decided to ruin and marry her niece Honoria, but in order toget to her, he courts her friend Phoebe?! Honoria doesn’t trust him so how on earth will he succeed in trapping Honoria by fake-courting her friend?
Anyway, her friends warn her that Edmund is no good; he’s a bitter, ruthless man. But Phoebe only sees the sunny side of life, so she’s nice to him, smiles and expects nothing but good from him. Then he suddenly decided he wants to marry her, bit of course she finds out about his original plan and is hurt and sad and loses all hope, despite her loving him after just one week.
But of course there is a HEA because he discovers he loves her.
Anyway, her friends warn her that Edmund is no good; he’s a bitter, ruthless man. But Phoebe only sees the sunny side of life, so she’s nice to him, smiles and expects nothing but good from him. Then he suddenly decided he wants to marry her, bit of course she finds out about his original plan and is hurt and sad and loses all hope, despite her loving him after just one week.
But of course there is a HEA because he discovers he loves her.
July 6, 2023
Edmund (Rutland) describes himself as an emotionally deadened, heartless Scoundrel who took his pleasure where he would. Phoebe is looking for a future husband who is honourable, respectable and good hearted. In an earlier book in this series there was a scene showing Rutland was not a complete scoundrel will Phoebe's influence unveil a good heart despite his quest for revenge? Phoebe believes they are "united in a bond that could only be experienced and shared by two who'd been scorned and whispered about by the cruel, merciless members of polite society."
"Sometimes it is easier when there is no barrier between you", said Wallace quietly. (Chapter 12)
Wallace is a gentle support for Edmund like a kind uncle.
"Sometimes it is easier when there is no barrier between you", said Wallace quietly. (Chapter 12)
Wallace is a gentle support for Edmund like a kind uncle.
February 7, 2019
Read This Book To Fall In Love
The plot seems cliché but the way it was written just blew me away. I read it twice. And when I feel like falling in love I will read it again.
We have the sweet and innocent Phoebe whose goodness and kindness touched the heart of the scoundrel that is Edmund. I will not get into the details because in terms of action and adventure this book did not have much of that. What it dis have was the development of the characters —- their thoughts, feelings, conversations and emotions. Christi Caldwell has achieved a love story that truly touches the heart. This book is just something you have to read.
The plot seems cliché but the way it was written just blew me away. I read it twice. And when I feel like falling in love I will read it again.
We have the sweet and innocent Phoebe whose goodness and kindness touched the heart of the scoundrel that is Edmund. I will not get into the details because in terms of action and adventure this book did not have much of that. What it dis have was the development of the characters —- their thoughts, feelings, conversations and emotions. Christi Caldwell has achieved a love story that truly touches the heart. This book is just something you have to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews