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The Heart of a Duke #9
The Lure of a Rake
A Lady Dreaming of Love
Lady Genevieve Farendale has a scandalous past. Jilted at the altar years earlier and exiled by her family, she’s now returned to London to prove she can be a proper lady. Even though she’s not given up on the hope of marrying for love, she’s wary of trusting again. Then she meets Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans whose seductive ways set her heart aflutter. But with her sordid history, Genevieve knows a rake can also easily destroy her.
An Unlikely Pairing
What begins as a chance encounter between Cedric and Genevieve, becomes something more. As they continue to meet, passions stir. But with Genevieve's hope for true love, she fears Cedric will be unable to give up his wayward lifestyle. After all, Cedric has spent years protecting his heart, and keeping everyone out. Slowly, she chips away at all the walls he's built, but when he falters, Genevieve can't offer him redemption. Now, it's up to Cedric to prove to Genevieve that the love of a man is far more powerful than the lure of a rake.
Lady Genevieve Farendale has a scandalous past. Jilted at the altar years earlier and exiled by her family, she’s now returned to London to prove she can be a proper lady. Even though she’s not given up on the hope of marrying for love, she’s wary of trusting again. Then she meets Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans whose seductive ways set her heart aflutter. But with her sordid history, Genevieve knows a rake can also easily destroy her.
An Unlikely Pairing
What begins as a chance encounter between Cedric and Genevieve, becomes something more. As they continue to meet, passions stir. But with Genevieve's hope for true love, she fears Cedric will be unable to give up his wayward lifestyle. After all, Cedric has spent years protecting his heart, and keeping everyone out. Slowly, she chips away at all the walls he's built, but when he falters, Genevieve can't offer him redemption. Now, it's up to Cedric to prove to Genevieve that the love of a man is far more powerful than the lure of a rake.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2016
816 people are currently reading
610 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.
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October 22, 2018
2.5/5 stars.
For the love of all that is Holy, I will never never never understand why Christi Caldwell doesn't write Epilogue's for books that need one to make you like the blasted book. I mean you've written 300 pages already, how much longer will it take to write 10 more pages.
Meet Cedric Falcott, Marquess of something something. A man who is so rakish that your eyes will bleed from reading the words; rogue, wicked parties, forbidden pleasures, debauchery, drunkard, carnal pleasures and other synonyms for self-serving dickface. He seemed to be going through DID throughout the book; he was decent (enough to have me intrigued) for the first 30 - 40% and then truly despicable up until 75%. He was good-ish for the last few chapters, and I say that only because the writing of his inner turmoil was done really well. If only with too many repititions.
He's decided to live his life like an asshole because he's come to learn he's no different than his cold, devious and manipulative father. Even his mother saw the same ruthless, no-good scoundrel in his son as her husband. By the by, he comes to this conclusion from nothing but assumptions, and his belief that because his father is bad so he must also be bad, that his blood is tainted. It's like Caldwell just threw ideas for why he's a rake at the wall, and this one stuck. And his brilliant method of dealing with this realization is not to change his ways, not to prove that he wasn't his father, not to be a sensible mature frigging 30 year old man who looks after his young sister, or cares about his finances, or just about anything . Nope. Instead, he decides to just be exactly what he hates in his father and vow to not have a child so that his tainted blood isn't carried on.
Genevieve was.... okay? In the mess that is the plot and the drama I couldn't even deal with her. She's sweet, loving and kind. She suffers a great scandal years ago, and you truly feel for her and I definitely rooted for her to have a loving, wonderful HEA. I just wish it was with another hero goddammit. She faught back but only much much too late in the book, and in the end took him back way too easily. Not a win in my book.
The plot goes something like this. Cedric and Genevieve have an off-chance meeting and sparks fly, and it's quite sweet to read about. They both feel for another, but it seems like nothing will come to pass. She's ruined and he's a rake with no intentions to marry. But then put in the cliche plot of needing to marry or being cut off by his father, Cedric proposes a marraige of conveinience to Genevieve, even though he's started to feel for her. This man has mush for brain I swear.
He spends scant moments with her post marraige, terrified that he no longer was eager to get back to gambling, drinking and whoring. So he ensures that he spends an hour or two with her during the day, then despite her asking him to stay back with her, or take her out, he goes out every single night. Back to his den of depraved men; and just sits and drinks and broods while his friends try to tempt him with women. All the while he either does not know or does not care that his visits to this den, even if he isn't whoring, are written about in the papers. Papers read every day by his wife. He treats her almost as if she is nothing more than a women who he desires and quells himself every time he has emotions for her. Perish the thought.
“A whore is what you’d have me be, Cedric.”
Finally Genevieve starts to fight back, and he still doesn't change his ways. This book would have been decent for me if he'd changed when he realized that he did care for her, and that his behaviour was hurting her. Because it isn't as if he wanted to leave her alone, or go to his clubs, or want any other woman. But he continued to leave because... well who the fuck knows. Then he attends an infamous party known to be some shit out of that Eyes Wide Shut movie, AND even though he knows his wife is very curious about what happens here - he doesn't think it'll be a smart decision to stay home. No, he goes. And cut to Genevieve showing up and seeing him while a naked woman tries to seduce him.
She runs away from the scene, crying and is encountered upon by the man who jilted her years ago. Said man then proceeds to attempt to force himself on her, which of course her husbands stops and then proceeds to beat the shit out of her former bethroed. And this incident, the fact that she was basically sexually assaulted by a man is never spoken of again in the book. Like....
Post their inevitable conversation on how spectacularly he's broken her heart and ruined her life, he doesn't deny or even try to explain when she learns that he married her out of revenge. Ugh, I just cant.
“And her touch would, no doubt, have been a good deal more if not for my poor timing,” she said in tired tones that spoke of a woman who’d given up on him.
I've given up on you as a half decent hero as well Cedric. It's fine. I basically read only to see how much worse it could get. And guess what....
Things happen and she finally leaves him. We're treated to one half-decent grovelling session of his and it isn't nearly enough. Then over the course of a month that is described to us in 1 and 1/2 chapters, Cedric understands that he must change his ways, not for her but because of her. He drinks and simpers further into self-loathing and manpain, goes to visit the sister he's ignored for a decade and tries to feel again. Pain continues to slice through him every 3rd sentence and then he breaks down in tears over a sketch she made of their would have been child. Oh did I mention, he's a rake who secretly loves to sketch and garden, but his terrible terrible father was so cruel that he gave up those hobbies to be a... douchebag?
You know, I can and would have given a BOD to most of the things above, because despite my complaints, I definitely felt a lot of emotions while reading thing. Mostly anger and pain - but the characters and backstory was all there for a wonderful story. But for me where the author messed up was the rushed ending. Imagine all the stuff I've listed above resolved in a 3 minute conversation between Cedric and Genevieve. A basic conversation about how he loves her and has changed not for her but just because he wants to change. Ugh. To top it all up, there is no epilogue.
In conclusion, I think CC wrote a truly disturbed, beast of a hero and just did not do enough work to redeem him enough for us to like him. Or me, at least. I've read many books from her before, and I highly enjoy her books - but this one just hit all the wrong cords. Cedric was not a hero worth being a hero, and the only way he could be was if enough time was given to see the change in him. For both the readers and Genevieve. Won't deter me from reading her books in the future, but ugh this one was no fun.
"She deserved more than Cedric Falcot, worthless Marquess of St. Albans."
Damn right Caldwell. Best sentence in the entire book.
And the rushed ending and lack of epilogue just kill it.
Final thoughts -
For the love of all that is Holy, I will never never never understand why Christi Caldwell doesn't write Epilogue's for books that need one to make you like the blasted book. I mean you've written 300 pages already, how much longer will it take to write 10 more pages.
Meet Cedric Falcott, Marquess of something something. A man who is so rakish that your eyes will bleed from reading the words; rogue, wicked parties, forbidden pleasures, debauchery, drunkard, carnal pleasures and other synonyms for self-serving dickface. He seemed to be going through DID throughout the book; he was decent (enough to have me intrigued) for the first 30 - 40% and then truly despicable up until 75%. He was good-ish for the last few chapters, and I say that only because the writing of his inner turmoil was done really well. If only with too many repititions.
He's decided to live his life like an asshole because he's come to learn he's no different than his cold, devious and manipulative father. Even his mother saw the same ruthless, no-good scoundrel in his son as her husband. By the by, he comes to this conclusion from nothing but assumptions, and his belief that because his father is bad so he must also be bad, that his blood is tainted. It's like Caldwell just threw ideas for why he's a rake at the wall, and this one stuck. And his brilliant method of dealing with this realization is not to change his ways, not to prove that he wasn't his father, not to be a sensible mature frigging 30 year old man who looks after his young sister, or cares about his finances, or just about anything . Nope. Instead, he decides to just be exactly what he hates in his father and vow to not have a child so that his tainted blood isn't carried on.
Genevieve was.... okay? In the mess that is the plot and the drama I couldn't even deal with her. She's sweet, loving and kind. She suffers a great scandal years ago, and you truly feel for her and I definitely rooted for her to have a loving, wonderful HEA. I just wish it was with another hero goddammit. She faught back but only much much too late in the book, and in the end took him back way too easily. Not a win in my book.
The plot goes something like this. Cedric and Genevieve have an off-chance meeting and sparks fly, and it's quite sweet to read about. They both feel for another, but it seems like nothing will come to pass. She's ruined and he's a rake with no intentions to marry. But then put in the cliche plot of needing to marry or being cut off by his father, Cedric proposes a marraige of conveinience to Genevieve, even though he's started to feel for her. This man has mush for brain I swear.
He spends scant moments with her post marraige, terrified that he no longer was eager to get back to gambling, drinking and whoring. So he ensures that he spends an hour or two with her during the day, then despite her asking him to stay back with her, or take her out, he goes out every single night. Back to his den of depraved men; and just sits and drinks and broods while his friends try to tempt him with women. All the while he either does not know or does not care that his visits to this den, even if he isn't whoring, are written about in the papers. Papers read every day by his wife. He treats her almost as if she is nothing more than a women who he desires and quells himself every time he has emotions for her. Perish the thought.
“A whore is what you’d have me be, Cedric.”
Finally Genevieve starts to fight back, and he still doesn't change his ways. This book would have been decent for me if he'd changed when he realized that he did care for her, and that his behaviour was hurting her. Because it isn't as if he wanted to leave her alone, or go to his clubs, or want any other woman. But he continued to leave because... well who the fuck knows. Then he attends an infamous party known to be some shit out of that Eyes Wide Shut movie, AND even though he knows his wife is very curious about what happens here - he doesn't think it'll be a smart decision to stay home. No, he goes. And cut to Genevieve showing up and seeing him while a naked woman tries to seduce him.
She runs away from the scene, crying and is encountered upon by the man who jilted her years ago. Said man then proceeds to attempt to force himself on her, which of course her husbands stops and then proceeds to beat the shit out of her former bethroed. And this incident, the fact that she was basically sexually assaulted by a man is never spoken of again in the book. Like....
Post their inevitable conversation on how spectacularly he's broken her heart and ruined her life, he doesn't deny or even try to explain when she learns that he married her out of revenge. Ugh, I just cant.
“And her touch would, no doubt, have been a good deal more if not for my poor timing,” she said in tired tones that spoke of a woman who’d given up on him.
I've given up on you as a half decent hero as well Cedric. It's fine. I basically read only to see how much worse it could get. And guess what....
Things happen and she finally leaves him. We're treated to one half-decent grovelling session of his and it isn't nearly enough. Then over the course of a month that is described to us in 1 and 1/2 chapters, Cedric understands that he must change his ways, not for her but because of her. He drinks and simpers further into self-loathing and manpain, goes to visit the sister he's ignored for a decade and tries to feel again. Pain continues to slice through him every 3rd sentence and then he breaks down in tears over a sketch she made of their would have been child. Oh did I mention, he's a rake who secretly loves to sketch and garden, but his terrible terrible father was so cruel that he gave up those hobbies to be a... douchebag?
You know, I can and would have given a BOD to most of the things above, because despite my complaints, I definitely felt a lot of emotions while reading thing. Mostly anger and pain - but the characters and backstory was all there for a wonderful story. But for me where the author messed up was the rushed ending. Imagine all the stuff I've listed above resolved in a 3 minute conversation between Cedric and Genevieve. A basic conversation about how he loves her and has changed not for her but just because he wants to change. Ugh. To top it all up, there is no epilogue.
In conclusion, I think CC wrote a truly disturbed, beast of a hero and just did not do enough work to redeem him enough for us to like him. Or me, at least. I've read many books from her before, and I highly enjoy her books - but this one just hit all the wrong cords. Cedric was not a hero worth being a hero, and the only way he could be was if enough time was given to see the change in him. For both the readers and Genevieve. Won't deter me from reading her books in the future, but ugh this one was no fun.
"She deserved more than Cedric Falcot, worthless Marquess of St. Albans."
Damn right Caldwell. Best sentence in the entire book.
And the rushed ending and lack of epilogue just kill it.
Final thoughts -
May 5, 2016
Once again, the amazing Christi Caldwell slays me with her breathtaking storytelling and her fascinating characters.
Lady Genevieve Farendale was left jilted at the alter by her unscrupulous and unfeeling duke who spread evil lies about Genevieve and not just ruining her reputation, but pretty much burying it. Then to top off that lovely heartbreaking tragedy, her wonderfully obnoxious parents ship her off to the country estate of her maternal grandfather to ruminate for five years about the wrong SHE has done her family. This reader was a more than a tad angry and completely sucked into this story by this time.
Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans is a complete rake who thrives on ticking his reprobate of a father off whenever possible. Only problem is, his father, the duke holds the purse strings and if Cedric doesn't comply with his demands, he's going to cut him off. Seemingly unaffected by this pronouncement, Cedric vows to remain a bachelor until he sets eyes on the ruined Lady Genevieve brought back from the netherworld and thrust once again into a society who still whispers about her.
Cedric and Genevieve's chance meeting in the library is a shock to his system and even more to hers when she discovers his identity after sharing an interesting conversation and a mind blowing kiss with the handsome unrepentant rake. So hurt Genevieve has been by those close to her, that it's hard to normally let anyone in, but with Cedric's easy going manner of speech and his genuine interest in Genevieve's love of art, her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble with each meeting the two share.
At his wits end and looking to seek the ultimate revenge on his progenitor, at the nudging of his best friend, Cedric seeks Genevieve's hand in marriage, and this is where things get even more riveting. The expectations by both bride and groom differ in each one's opinion and these differences strive to make of break this relationship. As much a I would love to continue to give you my take on THE LURE OF A RAKE by the brilliant Christi Caldwell, I would much rather you grab this highly emotional tale yourself.
Wow is a word that comes out of my mouth repeatedly throughout reading this story. Both Cedric and Genevieve have been talked about amongst the ton. Rumors, lies and exaggerations have been bandied about and each knows how it feels to be the object of that talk. Knowing how rumor and and talk can change opinions about people, Genevieve still takes in what she's heard about Cedric being a rake, even though she has been the object of hurtful jibes, she still throws his reputation in his face. That is how much she was hurt but not only what her former betrothed did to her, but compounded by her mother and father's rash decisions to place blame on their innocent daughter all because she was born female. Cedric is the celebrated rake, the man who can pretty much do as he pleases and still be welcome into fickle society. The irony is astounding and all this irony is why I LOVE this story. Christi Caldwell does not push the envelope when it comes to telling it like it is. She dives in head first and succeeds in making a splash with THE LURE OF A RAKE. Bravo Ms. Caldwell.
Lady Genevieve Farendale was left jilted at the alter by her unscrupulous and unfeeling duke who spread evil lies about Genevieve and not just ruining her reputation, but pretty much burying it. Then to top off that lovely heartbreaking tragedy, her wonderfully obnoxious parents ship her off to the country estate of her maternal grandfather to ruminate for five years about the wrong SHE has done her family. This reader was a more than a tad angry and completely sucked into this story by this time.
Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans is a complete rake who thrives on ticking his reprobate of a father off whenever possible. Only problem is, his father, the duke holds the purse strings and if Cedric doesn't comply with his demands, he's going to cut him off. Seemingly unaffected by this pronouncement, Cedric vows to remain a bachelor until he sets eyes on the ruined Lady Genevieve brought back from the netherworld and thrust once again into a society who still whispers about her.
Cedric and Genevieve's chance meeting in the library is a shock to his system and even more to hers when she discovers his identity after sharing an interesting conversation and a mind blowing kiss with the handsome unrepentant rake. So hurt Genevieve has been by those close to her, that it's hard to normally let anyone in, but with Cedric's easy going manner of speech and his genuine interest in Genevieve's love of art, her carefully constructed walls begin to crumble with each meeting the two share.
At his wits end and looking to seek the ultimate revenge on his progenitor, at the nudging of his best friend, Cedric seeks Genevieve's hand in marriage, and this is where things get even more riveting. The expectations by both bride and groom differ in each one's opinion and these differences strive to make of break this relationship. As much a I would love to continue to give you my take on THE LURE OF A RAKE by the brilliant Christi Caldwell, I would much rather you grab this highly emotional tale yourself.
Wow is a word that comes out of my mouth repeatedly throughout reading this story. Both Cedric and Genevieve have been talked about amongst the ton. Rumors, lies and exaggerations have been bandied about and each knows how it feels to be the object of that talk. Knowing how rumor and and talk can change opinions about people, Genevieve still takes in what she's heard about Cedric being a rake, even though she has been the object of hurtful jibes, she still throws his reputation in his face. That is how much she was hurt but not only what her former betrothed did to her, but compounded by her mother and father's rash decisions to place blame on their innocent daughter all because she was born female. Cedric is the celebrated rake, the man who can pretty much do as he pleases and still be welcome into fickle society. The irony is astounding and all this irony is why I LOVE this story. Christi Caldwell does not push the envelope when it comes to telling it like it is. She dives in head first and succeeds in making a splash with THE LURE OF A RAKE. Bravo Ms. Caldwell.
May 17, 2016
Lady Genevieve Farendale - banished to the country for the scandal created by being jilted at the altar.; Never counting on coming to love the peacefulness and simplicity of country life she thought being banished was the worst thing that could happen to her. That is until two things happened: 1) she was summoned back to London and forced to endure the ton’s spiteful gossip and a marriage to a friend of her father’s; and 2) meeting Cedric Falcot.
Cedric Falcot, Marquess of St. Albans, main goal in life was to thwart his sire – 1) by never marrying; therefore, 2) never having a child to continue the disgusting Falcot bloodline. He was happy with drinking, gambling, women, and living only for himself. All things he learned at an early age from his father. What he didn’t count on was meeting Genevieve Farendale, the betrayal of a man he called friend or he’s father’s ultimate manipulation.
Cedric proposes a marriage of convenience to solve both his problem of needing a wife to counter a threat from his father and to give Genevieve freedom from gossip and freedom to do as she wishes. A plan he thought he had completely figured out; alas things don’t always go as one plans. Genevieve soon realizes the longings she thought dead were only buried below the surface.
Can Cedric become the man she needs and knows he can be? When she learns the true reasoning behind her marriage can she ever forgive him?
Can a story of two people who know nothing about the each other, each with their own scars, possibly have a happily ever after? If it’s written by the extremely talented Christi Caldwell it’s possible. However, the reader needs to make sure they have plenty of tissues handy because she does not make it easy for them and The Lure of a Rake is no exception. This reader is always amazed at the depth of emotions that Ms. Caldwell pulls forth in each new book. This reader didn’t know who she wanted to strangle more: Genevieve’s family, Cedric’s father, Cedric’s friend or Cedric himself. Nor did this reader expect to feel Genevieve’s emotions so deeply. This reader usually rates Ms. Caldwell’s books as 5 hankie reads but feels this one may require more. WELL DONE Ms. Caldwell!!!
Cedric Falcot, Marquess of St. Albans, main goal in life was to thwart his sire – 1) by never marrying; therefore, 2) never having a child to continue the disgusting Falcot bloodline. He was happy with drinking, gambling, women, and living only for himself. All things he learned at an early age from his father. What he didn’t count on was meeting Genevieve Farendale, the betrayal of a man he called friend or he’s father’s ultimate manipulation.
Cedric proposes a marriage of convenience to solve both his problem of needing a wife to counter a threat from his father and to give Genevieve freedom from gossip and freedom to do as she wishes. A plan he thought he had completely figured out; alas things don’t always go as one plans. Genevieve soon realizes the longings she thought dead were only buried below the surface.
Can Cedric become the man she needs and knows he can be? When she learns the true reasoning behind her marriage can she ever forgive him?
Can a story of two people who know nothing about the each other, each with their own scars, possibly have a happily ever after? If it’s written by the extremely talented Christi Caldwell it’s possible. However, the reader needs to make sure they have plenty of tissues handy because she does not make it easy for them and The Lure of a Rake is no exception. This reader is always amazed at the depth of emotions that Ms. Caldwell pulls forth in each new book. This reader didn’t know who she wanted to strangle more: Genevieve’s family, Cedric’s father, Cedric’s friend or Cedric himself. Nor did this reader expect to feel Genevieve’s emotions so deeply. This reader usually rates Ms. Caldwell’s books as 5 hankie reads but feels this one may require more. WELL DONE Ms. Caldwell!!!
November 28, 2017
"The Lure of a Rake" is a Heart Wrenching story with two mentally abused H/H by there parents. Parents are suppose to love you but the H/H Cedric Falcot Marquis of St. Albans, heir to the Duke of Ravenscourt and Lady Genevieve Ferndale daughter of a Marquis have the worst parents.
Genevieve age 18 has been jilted at the alter by the Duke of Aumere and he lies as to why he did this. Telling her parents and the ton that she lost her virtue to his brother. He lies on poor Genevieve and her parents and the ton believe him over her and she is sent to live with her grandfather in the country for 5 years. She had not receive not one letter or heard from her parent and sister in anyway. Until she is summoned back to London. Her father blames her because her younger sister has not receive any marriage proposal. So he must marry her off to and old elderly friend of his.
Cedric Falcot the Marquis of St. Albans father took him away from his mother and sister as the age of 5 to teach him how to be a Duke. To instill in him to be cold, never show emotions or compassion and never fall in love. Women are to be used to get heirs and whores for pleasure. Cedric's mother dies a few years after he was taken from her, so he never knew motherly love. His father brought him a whore to teach him how to have sex at the age of 13. Nothing Cedric did was enough for his father. Just like Genevieve they had uncaring, unloving parents. Who set them on a cold, lonely road of Apathy.
Until at a Ball Genevieve sneaks off to the library to remove her tight fitting shoes. The ball was for Cedric that his father was giving to make him choose a wife and get a heir or he will be cut off. No money and no property. Cedric is hiding out in the library and the two lonely loveless H/H meet.
This story was fast moving I stayed up all night reading it. Its was so emotional and you want this couple to find some love and some happiness together. They belong together. Two hurt wounded souls. That once they are married still struggle to except love. I fell in love with Genevieve and Cedric.
The only problem I had was the abrupt ending to the story. I would have liked to see an epilog. This was a really good story. That will have you routing for Cedric and Genevieve.
Genevieve age 18 has been jilted at the alter by the Duke of Aumere and he lies as to why he did this. Telling her parents and the ton that she lost her virtue to his brother. He lies on poor Genevieve and her parents and the ton believe him over her and she is sent to live with her grandfather in the country for 5 years. She had not receive not one letter or heard from her parent and sister in anyway. Until she is summoned back to London. Her father blames her because her younger sister has not receive any marriage proposal. So he must marry her off to and old elderly friend of his.
Cedric Falcot the Marquis of St. Albans father took him away from his mother and sister as the age of 5 to teach him how to be a Duke. To instill in him to be cold, never show emotions or compassion and never fall in love. Women are to be used to get heirs and whores for pleasure. Cedric's mother dies a few years after he was taken from her, so he never knew motherly love. His father brought him a whore to teach him how to have sex at the age of 13. Nothing Cedric did was enough for his father. Just like Genevieve they had uncaring, unloving parents. Who set them on a cold, lonely road of Apathy.
Until at a Ball Genevieve sneaks off to the library to remove her tight fitting shoes. The ball was for Cedric that his father was giving to make him choose a wife and get a heir or he will be cut off. No money and no property. Cedric is hiding out in the library and the two lonely loveless H/H meet.
This story was fast moving I stayed up all night reading it. Its was so emotional and you want this couple to find some love and some happiness together. They belong together. Two hurt wounded souls. That once they are married still struggle to except love. I fell in love with Genevieve and Cedric.
The only problem I had was the abrupt ending to the story. I would have liked to see an epilog. This was a really good story. That will have you routing for Cedric and Genevieve.
July 4, 2016
Enchanting
Caldwell spins a beautiful love story. The story centers around Cedric Marquess of St. Albans the wicked rake and son of the dastardly Duke of Ravenscourt. He meets the Lady Genevieve Farendale, the ruined and gossiped about daughter of two of the worse parents in all of Caldwell's books. When it comes to horrid parents this couple takes the cake. Genevieve parent's are actually worse than the Duke of Ravenscourt.
Caldwell pull a lot of emotions out of her characters and as a reader I was gutted by so much in this book. Caldwell always gives me a full emotion filled story, and this one really pulled at my heart. I really wanted to bitch slap characters on Genevieve behalf.
When it comes to sexual content this is one of the most scorching Caldwell has written. Her sex scenes are very passionate and the primal need in palpable.
The ending for me was a tad abrupt. I would have loved a intimate scene at the end, for him to remove all doubt from her mind as it was more that physical pleasure between the two of them. Where he said those intimate things as he made her realize physically it would always only be her.
There were some minor continuity issues, but they did not detract from my enjoyment of the book. Caldwell is one of my all time 'make me happy' authors. Her books always put a smile on my face.
Caldwell spins a beautiful love story. The story centers around Cedric Marquess of St. Albans the wicked rake and son of the dastardly Duke of Ravenscourt. He meets the Lady Genevieve Farendale, the ruined and gossiped about daughter of two of the worse parents in all of Caldwell's books. When it comes to horrid parents this couple takes the cake. Genevieve parent's are actually worse than the Duke of Ravenscourt.
Caldwell pull a lot of emotions out of her characters and as a reader I was gutted by so much in this book. Caldwell always gives me a full emotion filled story, and this one really pulled at my heart. I really wanted to bitch slap characters on Genevieve behalf.
When it comes to sexual content this is one of the most scorching Caldwell has written. Her sex scenes are very passionate and the primal need in palpable.
The ending for me was a tad abrupt. I would have loved a intimate scene at the end, for him to remove all doubt from her mind as it was more that physical pleasure between the two of them. Where he said those intimate things as he made her realize physically it would always only be her.
There were some minor continuity issues, but they did not detract from my enjoyment of the book. Caldwell is one of my all time 'make me happy' authors. Her books always put a smile on my face.
January 12, 2020
I honestly did not care at all about either one of these characters. They were both idiots and both naive.. in completely different ways.
February 8, 2019
The Lure of a Rake is book 9 in The Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. I sighed and sobbed my way through this book. What an amazing story! Cedric Falcot the Marquess of St. Albany is one of those dreamy swoon-worthy heroes that keeps me turning the pages. I loved his horrendous rakish ways and the way Genevieve could destroy his walled up heart.
“Her breath caught. The sky. His eyes harkened to the soft blue of the pure Kent countryside skies, when the sun beat on her neck…”
This book also contains one of the best love scenes I have ever read.
Can’t wait for book 10.
“Her breath caught. The sky. His eyes harkened to the soft blue of the pure Kent countryside skies, when the sun beat on her neck…”
This book also contains one of the best love scenes I have ever read.
Can’t wait for book 10.
September 8, 2020
War irgendwie genau meins und hat mich total abgeholt.
Ist mein Lieblingsbuch aus der „Herz“-Reihe von Christi Cadwell (:
Ist mein Lieblingsbuch aus der „Herz“-Reihe von Christi Cadwell (:
September 4, 2023
say it with me, girlies: men are morons.
this one had a lot of angst, it hurt.
love you genny.
this one had a lot of angst, it hurt.
love you genny.
January 30, 2024
Your books
They are the best in everything. I read a lot in my old age of 86. I read all I can get of your novels. Thank you so much for this as it makes me happy.
They are the best in everything. I read a lot in my old age of 86. I read all I can get of your novels. Thank you so much for this as it makes me happy.
May 9, 2016
Christi Caldwell has created a another masterpiece with The Lure of a Rake. She paints a real, raw and honest picture of the struggles Cedric and Genevieve have in trying to make their relationship work.
Genevieve and Cedric are two people who have been used and abused by those who were the closet to them. Genevieve betrayal found her exiled from her family and left alone. Cedric betrayal found him exiled in a prison of his own making. While Genevieve grew strong in her time away, Cedric became weak and believed he was nothing more than a monster.
When Cedric meets Genevieve, he finds a women who has no desire to use Cedric for his wealth or his title. Instead he meets a women who understands Cedric, sees the darkness that covers him, accepts him for who he is, but challenges him to be the man he could be. Genevieve is such a breath of fresh air, that he can't help but be intrigued by this women.
Genevieve has finally found a man who doesn't care about her past scandal. Cedric see's Genevieve for who she is, a smart, strong and capable women. He doesn't want to control her, but wants to encourage her in the things that make her happy.
Both Cedric and Genevieve are put in an impossible position, which leads them to agree to marry. However, their marriage is less than happy. Cedric is too wrapped up in his past. He is too afraid to let it go, as it is the only thing that has kept him warm all this years. His fear, has created a fractured marriage that appears to be irreparable, due Cedric's betrayal.
The books was ugly, messy and hard for me to read at times, but it painted a beautiful but tough picture of what it really takes to make a relationship work with a person who has a very dark past that has impacted his soul in more ways then one.
Genevieve and Cedric are two people who have been used and abused by those who were the closet to them. Genevieve betrayal found her exiled from her family and left alone. Cedric betrayal found him exiled in a prison of his own making. While Genevieve grew strong in her time away, Cedric became weak and believed he was nothing more than a monster.
When Cedric meets Genevieve, he finds a women who has no desire to use Cedric for his wealth or his title. Instead he meets a women who understands Cedric, sees the darkness that covers him, accepts him for who he is, but challenges him to be the man he could be. Genevieve is such a breath of fresh air, that he can't help but be intrigued by this women.
Genevieve has finally found a man who doesn't care about her past scandal. Cedric see's Genevieve for who she is, a smart, strong and capable women. He doesn't want to control her, but wants to encourage her in the things that make her happy.
Both Cedric and Genevieve are put in an impossible position, which leads them to agree to marry. However, their marriage is less than happy. Cedric is too wrapped up in his past. He is too afraid to let it go, as it is the only thing that has kept him warm all this years. His fear, has created a fractured marriage that appears to be irreparable, due Cedric's betrayal.
The books was ugly, messy and hard for me to read at times, but it painted a beautiful but tough picture of what it really takes to make a relationship work with a person who has a very dark past that has impacted his soul in more ways then one.
May 14, 2016
The Lure of a Rake by Christi Caldwell is #9 in the amazing "The Heart of a Duke" series, but can be read as a stand alone.
OMG! This series just keeps getting better and better! Once again, Ms. Caldwell has written a tale with intense emotions and personal struggles of the characters.
Fast paced, well written story of their personal struggles, challenges, tragedy, and romance. Both the H/H are strong, with emotional baggage and seaching for comfort, peace and a little happiness. I enjoyed watching this couple find themselves and overcome the powerful emotions their parents inflicted upon them. What a story!
Ms. Caldwell has once again, written a story with difficult topics, personal struggles, and powerful emotions. Step into Ms. Caldwell's world where the reader can relate to and feel the characters pain and their reality. Where they may find their HEA, afterall.
Strongly recommended! I absolutely adored the characters, the uniqueness of the story and the complex storyline. I believe this is my favorite "Heart of a Duke" story, yet. I don't know how Ms. Caldwell will top this one, emotionally and the complexity of the characters. But I can't wait to find out, what's next from her. Well done, Ms. Caldwell! Another must read from this author and a keeper. For fans of Romance in any genre, this is a must read. Hurry and pick up this beautifully written story, and read it for yourself, you will not regret your choice! Highly recommended!
Received for an honest review from the author, but all the opinions and thoughts within are my own.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
OMG! This series just keeps getting better and better! Once again, Ms. Caldwell has written a tale with intense emotions and personal struggles of the characters.
Fast paced, well written story of their personal struggles, challenges, tragedy, and romance. Both the H/H are strong, with emotional baggage and seaching for comfort, peace and a little happiness. I enjoyed watching this couple find themselves and overcome the powerful emotions their parents inflicted upon them. What a story!
Ms. Caldwell has once again, written a story with difficult topics, personal struggles, and powerful emotions. Step into Ms. Caldwell's world where the reader can relate to and feel the characters pain and their reality. Where they may find their HEA, afterall.
Strongly recommended! I absolutely adored the characters, the uniqueness of the story and the complex storyline. I believe this is my favorite "Heart of a Duke" story, yet. I don't know how Ms. Caldwell will top this one, emotionally and the complexity of the characters. But I can't wait to find out, what's next from her. Well done, Ms. Caldwell! Another must read from this author and a keeper. For fans of Romance in any genre, this is a must read. Hurry and pick up this beautifully written story, and read it for yourself, you will not regret your choice! Highly recommended!
Received for an honest review from the author, but all the opinions and thoughts within are my own.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
April 7, 2025
The hero and heroine were boring and their romance was unconvincing. The ending was appallingly rushed. And every aspect of the plot was flimsy.
“My husband has issues with his father and refuses to have children out of spite,” “I was a victim of a scandal of someone else’s making and sent into exile,” and “I cheated publicly to prove my masculinity but it doesn’t count because I only touched her, I never penetrated her” are all subplots that have been done better elsewhere.
This author has written some good books, too, which makes the depressing absurdity of this story even more frustrating. She tends to be extremely hit or miss. I wonder if she’s hired an incompetent ghostwriter (or if she’s writing herself, and her previous ghostwriter was more talented?)
“My husband has issues with his father and refuses to have children out of spite,” “I was a victim of a scandal of someone else’s making and sent into exile,” and “I cheated publicly to prove my masculinity but it doesn’t count because I only touched her, I never penetrated her” are all subplots that have been done better elsewhere.
This author has written some good books, too, which makes the depressing absurdity of this story even more frustrating. She tends to be extremely hit or miss. I wonder if she’s hired an incompetent ghostwriter (or if she’s writing herself, and her previous ghostwriter was more talented?)
September 20, 2018
I don’t understand why this book has such a high rating. I don’t feel like there was anything remarkable about this heroine. She did nothing strong or witty or unique. The hero’s regret about how he’s lived his life seems abrupt and overdone—I just couldn’t believe how completely he was reformed in so short a time. Additionally, I loathe historical romances where the couple gets married and the wife sits at home night after night while her husband cheats (or nearly cheats) on her. They just give me such a bleak, icky feeling.
December 26, 2016
4.25/5
January 14, 2024
4.5⭐️
This book tore me to pieces. This series, each couple, has torn me to pieces. But that abrupt ending was SUCH a cop out! What in the— it was like Christi had a deadline to meet and it was rushed through. Other than that, this book had me in a chokehold for a straight 24 hours. Every single waking hour, I was either reading or WAITING to go back to reading this. And I think this is just how good Christi is. She makes it so easy to get into a character’s world, that I sometimes have to be “ooookay, you’re not this character, don’t take on their emotions” 😂
Genevieve Fardendale was jilted at the alter, and not only that, but her former fiance spread awful scandalous rumors about her, which ultimately lead to her ruination. The scandal caused her parents to essentially disown her in hopes of saving her sisters reputation from the aftermath and secure a place for her in society (they were really wonderful people). So for 5 years, Genevieve was sent to live in the country with her grandfather. Innitially hating her move, Genevieve was able to create a calm life for herself reading, gardening and enjoying her own company. But all good things must come to an end. By order of her parents, she must return to London as her old scandal is still effecting her sister’s chances of finding a husband. They think the best way to remedy this is for Genevieve to act as if the scandal never happened, while also staying in the background as much as possible. At balls she’s given plain grey dresses and told to not draw any attention to herself because the focus should only be on her sister. ( I mean her parents are CLEARLY great).
When she needs a break from a ball she has attended she sneaks into the host’s library, thus coming face to face with a stranger.
That would be Cedric Falcot, Marquess of St. Albans.
Cedric is the ultimate rake. He drinks, gambles, whores etc and he does it in excess. He thrives on tormenting his father with his spending and stance on remaining a bachelor thus ending the Falcot line. The only problem is, his father demands he wed or he is completely cut off. His father forces him to attend his own ball where he stays in his own library until he wants to come out.
But when an innocent miss accidentally joins him, he is intrigued with her as she is honest and different than any other lady of the ton. Not giving her his identity, Genevieve expresses her disinterest for the Cedric as she thinks he’s rude. When this “stranger” kisses her, Genevieve’s world is turned upside down. And when his identity is revealed she is ultimately mortified, but Cedric still remains intrigued by her. Even with her scandalous past.
In the days after the ball, Cedric cannot stop thinking about Genevieve and tries to see her again. But when Cedric’s father presses that he must marry, his ultimate revenge on his father would be marrying Genevieve. Someone who his father disapproves of because of her scandal.
And being forced to marry a man almost 50 years older than her, Genevieve will do anything to see that fall through. When Cedric proposes marriage to her, he states that it will only be out of convenience for both of them. Cedric will continue living his rakish life, while Genevieve could move back to the country to resume her life. No love. No children and an end to his bloodline. Genevieve agrees, but Cedric did not make it clear that he did not want children. The marital bed, sure but absolutely no children.
Once they are married, and spend more time with each other, they both develop a passionate friendship with each other, but to Cedric there should be no more than that. Going to her bed nightly, and then going to his clubs after is the way it should be. No love. No romance. No strings attached.
But when Genevieve wants more, he will do whatever it takes to push her away from him including touching another woman right in front of her. (BARF) But the thing is, Cedric is starting to want more as well. His betrayal, ultimately breaks Genevieve and she wishes to be apart from him which destroys Cedric. So he must grow a pair and win her back.
I really did love this. It was bananas. So emotional, but Cedric is SUCH a bonehead. His love for excessive gambling and whoring isn’t too much out of the realm of what a man in the regency era would be doing, but he was just something else. At SOME point or another this 30 year old man should grow the F up. I fell in love with them as a couple, but jeeeez Genevieve couldn’t catch a break. Left and right people were HORRIBLE to her. It broke me a couple of times. I really just wish it wrapped up better. Like she COULDVE had a great epilogue showing them with a bunch of their kids etc etc is just was some abrupt?!
Cedric comes back to apologize and grovel at Genevieve’s feet— they reconcile. Kiss. BOOM. The end? Nooo?! What!! Like didn’t she think that was a weird way to end it? Other than that, I was hooked!
This book tore me to pieces. This series, each couple, has torn me to pieces. But that abrupt ending was SUCH a cop out! What in the— it was like Christi had a deadline to meet and it was rushed through. Other than that, this book had me in a chokehold for a straight 24 hours. Every single waking hour, I was either reading or WAITING to go back to reading this. And I think this is just how good Christi is. She makes it so easy to get into a character’s world, that I sometimes have to be “ooookay, you’re not this character, don’t take on their emotions” 😂
Genevieve Fardendale was jilted at the alter, and not only that, but her former fiance spread awful scandalous rumors about her, which ultimately lead to her ruination. The scandal caused her parents to essentially disown her in hopes of saving her sisters reputation from the aftermath and secure a place for her in society (they were really wonderful people). So for 5 years, Genevieve was sent to live in the country with her grandfather. Innitially hating her move, Genevieve was able to create a calm life for herself reading, gardening and enjoying her own company. But all good things must come to an end. By order of her parents, she must return to London as her old scandal is still effecting her sister’s chances of finding a husband. They think the best way to remedy this is for Genevieve to act as if the scandal never happened, while also staying in the background as much as possible. At balls she’s given plain grey dresses and told to not draw any attention to herself because the focus should only be on her sister. ( I mean her parents are CLEARLY great).
When she needs a break from a ball she has attended she sneaks into the host’s library, thus coming face to face with a stranger.
That would be Cedric Falcot, Marquess of St. Albans.
Cedric is the ultimate rake. He drinks, gambles, whores etc and he does it in excess. He thrives on tormenting his father with his spending and stance on remaining a bachelor thus ending the Falcot line. The only problem is, his father demands he wed or he is completely cut off. His father forces him to attend his own ball where he stays in his own library until he wants to come out.
But when an innocent miss accidentally joins him, he is intrigued with her as she is honest and different than any other lady of the ton. Not giving her his identity, Genevieve expresses her disinterest for the Cedric as she thinks he’s rude. When this “stranger” kisses her, Genevieve’s world is turned upside down. And when his identity is revealed she is ultimately mortified, but Cedric still remains intrigued by her. Even with her scandalous past.
In the days after the ball, Cedric cannot stop thinking about Genevieve and tries to see her again. But when Cedric’s father presses that he must marry, his ultimate revenge on his father would be marrying Genevieve. Someone who his father disapproves of because of her scandal.
And being forced to marry a man almost 50 years older than her, Genevieve will do anything to see that fall through. When Cedric proposes marriage to her, he states that it will only be out of convenience for both of them. Cedric will continue living his rakish life, while Genevieve could move back to the country to resume her life. No love. No children and an end to his bloodline. Genevieve agrees, but Cedric did not make it clear that he did not want children. The marital bed, sure but absolutely no children.
Once they are married, and spend more time with each other, they both develop a passionate friendship with each other, but to Cedric there should be no more than that. Going to her bed nightly, and then going to his clubs after is the way it should be. No love. No romance. No strings attached.
But when Genevieve wants more, he will do whatever it takes to push her away from him including touching another woman right in front of her. (BARF) But the thing is, Cedric is starting to want more as well. His betrayal, ultimately breaks Genevieve and she wishes to be apart from him which destroys Cedric. So he must grow a pair and win her back.
I really did love this. It was bananas. So emotional, but Cedric is SUCH a bonehead. His love for excessive gambling and whoring isn’t too much out of the realm of what a man in the regency era would be doing, but he was just something else. At SOME point or another this 30 year old man should grow the F up. I fell in love with them as a couple, but jeeeez Genevieve couldn’t catch a break. Left and right people were HORRIBLE to her. It broke me a couple of times. I really just wish it wrapped up better. Like she COULDVE had a great epilogue showing them with a bunch of their kids etc etc is just was some abrupt?!
Cedric comes back to apologize and grovel at Genevieve’s feet— they reconcile. Kiss. BOOM. The end? Nooo?! What!! Like didn’t she think that was a weird way to end it? Other than that, I was hooked!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2018
In some ways, this novel reminds me of Joanna Chamber's Unforgivable, however, I like this story more, it was great. In my opinion, Cedric was a better man than Gil (the male protagonist in Unforgivable). Though both male principal characters didn't grovel much, Cedric's confessions were more heartfelt. Then again, there were a few things that made me not add another star for this book:
1. It didn't hold my attention that much. I mean it was beautiful, but, it wasn't a page-turner for me.
2. Too many repetitions. The same sentiments and self-flagellations were well-nigh in every chapter.
3. No epilogue. The ending seems lacking, hence, it would be nice if there is an epilogue.
4. Incongruities
5. I find it obtuse that since Cedric long ago decided not to have children, yet didn't use any precautions sooner. Did he think that chanting and ingraining that resolution will prevent them conceiving when they were having, assumingly, uninterrupted copulation for almost two months?
Lastly, I hope there will be a story about Francesca Cornworthy soon. She seems to be a wonderful, guileless, kind woman and deserves a happy ending, too.
1. It didn't hold my attention that much. I mean it was beautiful, but, it wasn't a page-turner for me.
2. Too many repetitions. The same sentiments and self-flagellations were well-nigh in every chapter.
3. No epilogue. The ending seems lacking, hence, it would be nice if there is an epilogue.
4. Incongruities
- It was said that Cedric had more than seventeen years of debauched existence, however, it was narrated that he had his first whore at thirteen and he was nearing his thirties. Thus, shouldn't it be nearly thirty years, not over? Either the author was bad in math, or Cedric started his debauched life earlier than thirteen, or the writer doesn't know the meaning of nearly and over.
- Cedric and Genevieve's first disagreement didn't add up. They were married for only two days then, right? So how come their disharmony sounded like they were married for two weeks or so?
- Was the gown bought by Genevieve or given by her sister? Based on the conversation between Genevieve, Gillian and Francesca, Genevieve had the gown commissioned, but later it was recounted that Gillian gave her the gown.
5. I find it obtuse that since Cedric long ago decided not to have children, yet didn't use any precautions sooner. Did he think that chanting and ingraining that resolution will prevent them conceiving when they were having, assumingly, uninterrupted copulation for almost two months?
Lastly, I hope there will be a story about Francesca Cornworthy soon. She seems to be a wonderful, guileless, kind woman and deserves a happy ending, too.
June 12, 2019
“There is something to be said for the comfort to be had in familiarity.” “Yes,” she agreed. A small smile hovered on her lips. “But the thrill of the unfamiliar... now that is something to revel in.”
The Lure of a Rake is book nine in the Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans has a chip on his shoulder the size of his father, the Duke of Ravenscourt. The Duke wants his heir and Cedric is willing to do almost anything to thwart and embarrass his father, even if that means courting a ruined woman. Genevieve Farendale is ruined, not by her actions, but vicious rumor and innuendo. She’s been hidden away for the past few years and now her parents have decided to allow her to enter society again, the last thing she wants. Genevieve and Cedric meet in a library at a ball held by his father and Cedric pursues her doggedly after. With little options after her father’s pronouncement that she must marry, Cedric proposes and Genevieve hesitantly agrees. Cedric has deep seated issues with his manipulative father and those issues threaten their marriage. Cedric has to decide if Genevieve is more important than power and rebellion over his father. I always feel like Christi writes every day issues beautifully, she doesn’t need manufactured drama, life and all its problems are enough. This book is a really good example of that.
(Note: I love to hate the Duke of Ravenscourt. He’s so manipulative and unemotional, basically the only good things he’s done is push his two legitimate children towards happiness. I’m hoping for the best, in that he wants their happiness because he’s never had his own. I really want Christi to write his HEA, I want to read the woman that can get a one-up on him.)
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
The Lure of a Rake is book nine in the Heart of a Duke series by Christi Caldwell. Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans has a chip on his shoulder the size of his father, the Duke of Ravenscourt. The Duke wants his heir and Cedric is willing to do almost anything to thwart and embarrass his father, even if that means courting a ruined woman. Genevieve Farendale is ruined, not by her actions, but vicious rumor and innuendo. She’s been hidden away for the past few years and now her parents have decided to allow her to enter society again, the last thing she wants. Genevieve and Cedric meet in a library at a ball held by his father and Cedric pursues her doggedly after. With little options after her father’s pronouncement that she must marry, Cedric proposes and Genevieve hesitantly agrees. Cedric has deep seated issues with his manipulative father and those issues threaten their marriage. Cedric has to decide if Genevieve is more important than power and rebellion over his father. I always feel like Christi writes every day issues beautifully, she doesn’t need manufactured drama, life and all its problems are enough. This book is a really good example of that.
(Note: I love to hate the Duke of Ravenscourt. He’s so manipulative and unemotional, basically the only good things he’s done is push his two legitimate children towards happiness. I’m hoping for the best, in that he wants their happiness because he’s never had his own. I really want Christi to write his HEA, I want to read the woman that can get a one-up on him.)
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
November 6, 2023
Genevieve and Cedric meet in the Library on the night of The Duke of Ravenscourt Ball both are avoiding the ball. Genevieve due to her satin slippers and boredom and Cedric to annoy his father. But Genevieve has in Cedric thoughts 'she was enchanting. The manner of interesting that made a man brave boring balls and soirees just for the unexpectedness of whatever words she'd utter next.'
Genevieve challenges Cedric with her questions and seeing more to Cedric than the person he presents to society. Cedric is content being a Rake until he meets Genevieve but is unsure what to do beyond what his father, mother, his friend Montford and himself have shaped him into being over the years. Genevieve has been shaped by the Scandal from five years prior to not trust society, her parents or men with titles like Dukes or Marquess. Genevieve and Cedric have a love of art that is a safe place for them both to escape into, Cedric with sketching and Genevieve with her drawing that draws them together at a deeper level. Genevieve believes the scandal sheets to feed her disconnect more than her husbands words and moments together and only in her lowest moments tell him she loves him and runs away from Cedric even after he says he loves her and is as broken as she is but only focuses on herself despite all he has unveiled about his childhood.
Gillian's words and moments of support for Genevieve are fun and great moments throughout the book.
Genevieve challenges Cedric with her questions and seeing more to Cedric than the person he presents to society. Cedric is content being a Rake until he meets Genevieve but is unsure what to do beyond what his father, mother, his friend Montford and himself have shaped him into being over the years. Genevieve has been shaped by the Scandal from five years prior to not trust society, her parents or men with titles like Dukes or Marquess. Genevieve and Cedric have a love of art that is a safe place for them both to escape into, Cedric with sketching and Genevieve with her drawing that draws them together at a deeper level. Genevieve believes the scandal sheets to feed her disconnect more than her husbands words and moments together and only in her lowest moments tell him she loves him and runs away from Cedric even after he says he loves her and is as broken as she is but only focuses on herself despite all he has unveiled about his childhood.
Gillian's words and moments of support for Genevieve are fun and great moments throughout the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2023
after being jilted at the aisle, genevieve's reputation went down the drain. instead of finding fault in the to-be-groom, her parents sent her off because her reputation is forever tarnished and they want society to forget about this ever happening. AS IF ANY OF IT WERE HER FAULT?! anyway, five years later, she's back as demanded by her parents. genevieve is expected to be a quiet wallflower that doesn't attract any attention. but she somehow attracted the attention of a rake, a marquess. cedric has been living his life recklessly and without much thought. being brought up by a horrible father, cedric always thought that he would be like his father as well. a womaniser, an alcoholic, a cheater. he vowed to never have an heir and never marry because he wanted the bloodline to stop at him to spite his father.
regardless of what they wanted, genevieve and cedric's meeting in the library would be the start of their journey together. they would enter a marriage of convenience with one party in love with the other and the other party refusing to admit their growing feelings. there were moments that made my heart twinge because of the hardships the characters are going through. cedric's a great character but his refusal to give his heart brought so much hurt to genevieve which made it hard for me to cheer for him at times. however, when he finally realized what he wanted, all's good.
regardless of what they wanted, genevieve and cedric's meeting in the library would be the start of their journey together. they would enter a marriage of convenience with one party in love with the other and the other party refusing to admit their growing feelings. there were moments that made my heart twinge because of the hardships the characters are going through. cedric's a great character but his refusal to give his heart brought so much hurt to genevieve which made it hard for me to cheer for him at times. however, when he finally realized what he wanted, all's good.
April 6, 2021
I can't help rating these books higher than they really deserve because they can pack an emotional punch. But I'm tired of how heroines who read are somehow special, since basically every heroine in this world loves to read? Also there are way too many peers. I thought the number of dukes was bad, but it's even worse with earls and marquesses, and viscounts...there isn't one untitled hero among them. And nearly every heroine is a lady. I mean, really?
All the men have "unfashionably long locks". If it's so unfashionable, why do they all have them? And with all this talk of wickedness, the most wicked thing that's happened is some oral sex. In only two of them. The sex in these novels is tame, and not rakish at all.
Speaking of rakes, they are not. Not really. Jerks, sure. But not one of them has the pox.
All the men have "unfashionably long locks". If it's so unfashionable, why do they all have them? And with all this talk of wickedness, the most wicked thing that's happened is some oral sex. In only two of them. The sex in these novels is tame, and not rakish at all.
Speaking of rakes, they are not. Not really. Jerks, sure. But not one of them has the pox.
September 19, 2021
Da ich die Romane von Christi Caldwell sehr ins Herz geschlossen habe, war es nur folgerichtig, auch den 9. Band der "Herz des Herzogs"-Reihe anzufragen. Die Romane sind jedoch in sich geschlossen und können unabhängig voneinander gelesen werden.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren Genevieve und Cedric sind herrlich liebenswert und die knisternde Atmosphäre zwischen beiden mit Händen greifbar. Es ist köstlich, Cedric dabei zu beobachten, wie er sich selbst zu überzeugen versucht, dass er gar keine ehrenhaften Absichten verfolgt. Zugleich bricht es einem das Herz, wie lieblos und kaltherzig die eigenen Eltern sich Genevieve gegenüber verhalten.
Der Schreibstil ist flüssig, der Handlung leicht zu folgen. Dabei erhält man tiefe Einblicke in die Gedanken und Gefühle der Protagonist*innen.
Die beiden Hauptfiguren Genevieve und Cedric sind herrlich liebenswert und die knisternde Atmosphäre zwischen beiden mit Händen greifbar. Es ist köstlich, Cedric dabei zu beobachten, wie er sich selbst zu überzeugen versucht, dass er gar keine ehrenhaften Absichten verfolgt. Zugleich bricht es einem das Herz, wie lieblos und kaltherzig die eigenen Eltern sich Genevieve gegenüber verhalten.
Der Schreibstil ist flüssig, der Handlung leicht zu folgen. Dabei erhält man tiefe Einblicke in die Gedanken und Gefühle der Protagonist*innen.
April 17, 2019
I am not going to go into a detailed review of the book as there are many already written.
I loved this book and for as much as I loved and my heart hurt for Lady Genevieve Farendale; I in turn hated the rake Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans. There were so many emotional events that made Genevieve and Cedric become the people they were.
I highly recommend the book as Christi always manages to get you fully invested in her characters - the only thing I would have wished for would be a longer epilogue that told a little about what happened down the road between Genevieve and Cedric.
I loved this book and for as much as I loved and my heart hurt for Lady Genevieve Farendale; I in turn hated the rake Cedric Falcot, the Marquess of St. Albans. There were so many emotional events that made Genevieve and Cedric become the people they were.
I highly recommend the book as Christi always manages to get you fully invested in her characters - the only thing I would have wished for would be a longer epilogue that told a little about what happened down the road between Genevieve and Cedric.
March 29, 2021
die feine Gesellschaft ist in diesem Buch noch hirnloser wie sonst. Das Paar, besonders die Frau leiden unter der Borniertheit und Gedankenlosigkeit ihrer Gesellschaftsschicht zu der auch ihre Eltern gehören.
Sehr emotional ist hier eine Liebesgeschichte beschrieben die eigentlich keine Chance hat aber es geschehen ja immer wieder Wunder. Die Gefühle wurden nachvollziehbar beschrieben auch die Verhaltensweisen der anderen Figuren waren klar auch wenn man es sich schwer vorstellen kann da in unserer Zeit solche Handlungen in dieser Art und Weise kaum möglich sind. Aber das macht den Charme dieser Romane aus.
Sehr emotional ist hier eine Liebesgeschichte beschrieben die eigentlich keine Chance hat aber es geschehen ja immer wieder Wunder. Die Gefühle wurden nachvollziehbar beschrieben auch die Verhaltensweisen der anderen Figuren waren klar auch wenn man es sich schwer vorstellen kann da in unserer Zeit solche Handlungen in dieser Art und Weise kaum möglich sind. Aber das macht den Charme dieser Romane aus.
July 5, 2018
32 mentions of satin (no lie 32!)
24 curled toes or fingers
5 leather button sofas
umpteen misused commas
and too many to mention repetitive phrases from book to book to book
that is all I can see in Caldwell's books anymore. In a 15 book series you would think she would find one or two new descriptions, but no. Pull out 20 pat phrases, insert new names, repeat ad nauseum within the book, and go.
24 curled toes or fingers
5 leather button sofas
umpteen misused commas
and too many to mention repetitive phrases from book to book to book
that is all I can see in Caldwell's books anymore. In a 15 book series you would think she would find one or two new descriptions, but no. Pull out 20 pat phrases, insert new names, repeat ad nauseum within the book, and go.
March 14, 2019
No! Love like a Rake,s❣️
Reading this book took me awhile to get into it, it started out alittle dry, for lack of a better word, but by the middle, it got very good, and by the last 3 chapters it captured my heart, made me she'd a tear.Heart gripping.So if you're reading this book now! Don't stop reading, because you,LL miss out on something wonderful.
That's why I give it 5 stars, because sometimes, love is not like a hurricane, it just comes softly❣️
Thank you!
Reading this book took me awhile to get into it, it started out alittle dry, for lack of a better word, but by the middle, it got very good, and by the last 3 chapters it captured my heart, made me she'd a tear.Heart gripping.So if you're reading this book now! Don't stop reading, because you,LL miss out on something wonderful.
That's why I give it 5 stars, because sometimes, love is not like a hurricane, it just comes softly❣️
Thank you!
February 7, 2017
Poignantly spellbinding!
From start to finish, this book makes you feel every nuance of this couple's pain and pleasure. I was sorry to see "The end" as I would have loved an epilogue, just to get a tiny bit more about his couple. Ms. Caldwell has the gift of making her readers not only picture the scenes in her books, but you actually live the experiences. Very well done!
From start to finish, this book makes you feel every nuance of this couple's pain and pleasure. I was sorry to see "The end" as I would have loved an epilogue, just to get a tiny bit more about his couple. Ms. Caldwell has the gift of making her readers not only picture the scenes in her books, but you actually live the experiences. Very well done!
December 23, 2017
Wonderful as always!
Loved every minute of it, even the emotional parts. Christi had me crying again! The only thing I wished for from this book was that there was more of a resolution with both families. Other than that, which didn't hinder the book, I loved it!!
Loved every minute of it, even the emotional parts. Christi had me crying again! The only thing I wished for from this book was that there was more of a resolution with both families. Other than that, which didn't hinder the book, I loved it!!
February 14, 2018
Omg this book!!! All the feels!!! I wanted to hit Genevieve’s parents! And that shameful horror of a duke who killed her. I’m so glad she found her HEA with Cedric. So glad he found his heart with her. Sigh.
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