The Art of Ruining a Rake

The Scandalous Spinsters #3

by Emma Locke, Marian Hussey (Narrator)

HE WANTS HER...
Practiced rake Roman Alexander never meant to seduce his best friend's sister. He certainly never intends to do it again. The handsome scoundrel has never felt more compelled to be a better man. But the damage has been done, for his buttoned-up spinster refuses to marry a bounder like him—and maddeningly, she doesn't seem to like him. Nevertheless, he can't seem to forget her, or her passionate response to his kisses. How much danger could there be in one more try?

SHE WANTS REVENGE
Practical headmistress Lucy Lancester naively believes her charming rogue has moved on to his next conquest, leaving her free to cherish their one night together for the rest of her bluestocking days. Until the afternoon he arrives at her school intent on proving their one night together wasn't enough—and this time, the scandal can't be contained. Well, two can play at that. How hard can it be to ruin a rake?

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Regency, British Literature, Fiction, Historical Fiction

Audiobook

First published July 21, 2015

About the author

Emma Locke is a USA Today Bestselling Author of smart, sensual Regency romances. Her current books make up the Scandalous Spinsters series, a double trilogy featuring three courtesans and three country hoydens who marry into the notorious Alexander family. She is also an engineer living in the Pacific Northwest, where she loves hiking with her dog, hot yoga and riding out the annual 330 days of rain.

You can Like Emma on Facebook at Facebook.com/AuthorEmmaLocke, follow her on Twitter @EmmaLocke_ or check out her books and appearances at www.emmalocke.com.

Reviews

[Tracy T. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not a good story. Fantastic narration by Marian Hussey (audible review)

Well, this was a real struggle to get through. The hero, Roman was the male courtesan in this story and trying to change his ways and redeem himself. She seduced him for revenge against all the women, ruining herself. I didn't care for it at all.

This book was very long. I keep thinking the books in this series will get better. Nope, they don't. Seem to be getting worse. I have to give up on this author. Sorry. The story line and plot was not good. The characters were just too hard to even like.

As for the narration, it was fantastic! I love Marian Hussey. She is an amazing narrator (she couldn't even help this story) She does such a good job. The men sound like men, and everyone gets their own distinct voice. She reads with emotion and has very nice reading voice.

F for story
A +++ for narration.

[Tin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last time I read about Roman Alexander was in his brother's book in 2013, and, if it's any indication of how great Emma Locke is, I haven't forgotten about Roman all these years. It's been an agonising wait, and, I was beyond thrilled when Locke finally announced the release of Roman's book. And, of course, being the fan that I am, I spent the whole night reading it -- and up to 1 in the morning thinking about it, before reading select chapters again until 2 in the morning. (Did I mention I needed to wake up at 5:30 that morning because it's a school day?)

Roman Alexander holds the distinction for being the most transparent man in all of London: Roman doesn't keep many secrets, and all of his motivations and actions are clear to everyone. Everyone knows him, everyone knows what he does, and everyone knows what to expect of him. It's a bit tragic how Roman has been pigeon-holed into this role -- by his brothers, by his friends, and by society. He's expected to entertain and amuse and look pretty -- and nothing more.

But Roman Alexander also holds the distinction for being the most misunderstood man in all of London -- everyone thinks they have figured him out. Everyone thinks they know everything about him. Everything thinks they know how he'll act and react in certain situations. But, everyone is so very wrong about Roman.

While not intended, I appreciate the break between the stories of Constantine and Roman because it allowed me to reflect on how I've perceived Roman's character since I first read about him in The Trouble with being Wicked, Emma Locke's debut novel. And I realised I had loved him for all the wrong reasons back then -- much in the same way Lucy did. I think Lucy first loved (and hated) the danger and excitement that Roman's life presented. Lucy had been living under the watchful eye of her always-correct brother, Trestin, but Lucy knew she wanted more from her life than what her brother had planned for her.

Roman's world was London, and it seemed so liberating to Lucy. But Lucy also thought Roman was a typical rake who just needed to be reformed, and Lucy would not be the one to do so. Lucy's family history is one of infidelity, jealousy and tragic death. Lucy is afraid that she has followed in her mother's footsteps, and inheriting her madness. Lucy is afraid that she would end up hurting Roman, the same way her mother had hurt (and killed) her faithless father.

Oh, but he was wrong. There would be consequences. Her broken heart, for one. His cold, dead body for another. When she looked at him, all she saw was his blood on her hands.
- Chapter 1

Throughout the story, the idea of "love" is called into question many times -- Roman claims to love Lucy, but Celeste and Trestin don't believe it's real. Lucy thought she was firmly and decidedly in love with Roman, but realised that the love she felt for him was conditional. Roman on the pedestal was safe for Lucy to love. She was able to idealise him in all his imperfection, but, Roman up close and personal is very different and difficult to love, but equally difficult to hate. Lucy realises this when she sees more and more of Roman's world, and when Roman reveals more and more of himself.

Love is constantly tested at every turn and encounter -- there were so many opportunities where Lucy could have just given up -- surrendered, packed up her toys and left -- but she continued to stay. And it didn't drive her mad.

In the same way, Roman's love for Lucy was also constantly challenged. Roman could've been content with their current arrangement -- where lust and passion overcome reason. Roman could've chosen not to tell Lucy all of his secrets. He could have chosen to allow Lucy to cling on to her image and idea of him -- but that would not be real, and it would not be love.

... Who was he, really, besides a man even he didn't want to like?

He turned away from the house. He should have refused Lucy's request to introduce her to his friends. She might be in disgrace, but there was no need to corrupt her with his brand of entertainment. No need to show her who he'd been, before. Who he still was because he had no idea how to be anyone else. And yet, there was no better way to gain her trust than to let her taste what she thought she wanted. Worldliness, vice, the lure of the forbidden.

Didn't those terms describe him, too?
- Chapter 8

Emma Locke calls this her Naughty Girls series, but it's also the Alexander Family series -- the drama of Roman's family unravels with every instalment. Dare's gambling troubles continue to snowball in this story -- and it's one of the calls to action that drives Roman forward, towards an unknown, but potentially promising future.

This is a novel with an amazing, amazing heart -- and that heart belongs to Roman Alexander. He might not be the hero we dream of, but, considering how bravely he bared himself, and wore his heart on his sleeve, I think he is a hero most worthy.

[Mandi]

This one isn't working for me. The heroine, who is so proud of her school, gets caught having sex with hero on her desk - and she isn't completely devastated? Then she gets caught kissing him the next day. Lady - goodness.

I needed to be worked up a little more to the chemistry between the h/h. I don't get their attraction and why the heroine would be so reckless.

[R.C. Matthews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where to start... I ran hot and cold with this story. The opening chapter had me laughing out loud. The situation was absolutely stunning and not funny at all for this time period. But I couldn't help laughing. Roman certainly is a rake and he starts out as a horribly selfish person. These kinds of stories are always hard to pull off because I inevitably wonder what it is about this 'hero' that the heroine is so attracted to - other than the obvious - his looks. Gasp! Women aren't allowed to pursue men for only their looks.

Only it turns out that some women do exactly that. I've never read a story about a male harlot - or cicisbeo as they were called. [I learned a new Regency term!] Roman sells his body to several young widows. A man's got to make a living somehow... and when your father gambles away the family fortune, there are few options for carrying on the lifestyle expected of a marquis.

Oh... what a delicious beginning. This story gives a whole new meaning to the concept of a rake. Why can we forgive men who are only sating their loins but we cringe at the idea of a man offering sex for money? If sex is 'just' sex, then why does it matter that money or goods exchanged hands? This is one of the many questions Lucy must grapple with.

I will say my heart broke a little for Roman when Lucy treated him exactly like the whore he was. Because she was dear to him. He didn't want 'just sex' between them. No, that wasn't enough. He wanted her complete and utter surrender. He wanted her to love him. This story takes us on quite a ride. Both characters have moments when I didn't like either of them. But in the end I was really happy they found their HEA. Still, after reading the entire story, I'm not sure I entirely understand why Lucy was so fascinated by Roman from the onset. A young girl's silly infatuation, I guess.

On a side note, I began reading this series with "The Danger in Daring a Lady" which is book #6 in this series. Oh my god, am I glad I read that first. Lord Darius Alexander, the hero in book #6, is Roman's brother. And I despised Darius in this book. He is a reckless gambler and a horrible person! Seriously, if I had read this book first, I don't think I would have taken the time to read "The Danger in Daring a Lady", which would've been a pity because I rated that book 5 stars. It is one thing to be told the hero was 'a rake and bad person' and quite another to be shown his character.

If you enjoy historical romances that take you down a dark and untrodden path, then I can highly recommend this one. This is not a story of young misses meeting their prince at the ball. An unconventional and delightful story.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a joy to discover a new author and fall head-over-heels in love with a book!

A year ago, Roman Alexander ruined Lucy Lancester, he offered to marry her but she refused because she told him she would rather remain independent. And he was not the kind of man she would marry anyway. Roman is broke, he is a true rake, but the thing is, he never meant to ruin Lucy; she tricked him. He doesn’t know that Lucy has always loved him, but he is so wrong in every way. Except that Roman is the most charming, handsome, adorable rogue and Lucy cannot resist him. But she does for a year, until they meet again, and things happen, and now Lucy is completely ruined, totally, irrevocably ruined. Roman proposes again, and again Lucy says no, to Roman’s utter astonishment. Lucy will have to exile herself to her brother’s and lose her School for Accomplished Young Ladies, for which she had worked so hard.


THE ART OF RUINING A RAKE is an absolutely fabulous historical romance! Ms. Locke is a fantastically talented writer, her prose is effortless, elegant and witty, the dialogues are spectacular, and the banter between Roman and Lucy is priceless; it reminds one of the true pleasure of reading. The characters are wonderfully complex and ever so enticing. Roman is a true rake, he’s a fop, a gigolo, he does nothing; we shouldn’t like him, and yet we do because he is so charismatic and irresistible, but as we get to know him, we get to see that there is much more than meets the eye. Lucy is also superb: she is very different from what we often see; she needs a purpose in life, if only she could resist her charming rake. I just loved Roman and Lucy so much; what a grand adventure THE ART OF RUINING A RAKE is! There is real passion, the character development is beyond compare, it’s fun, light, and lovely; THE ART OF RUINING A RAKE is a complete and utter delight!


I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[☽ Rhiannon ✭ Mistwalker ☾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

DO NOT READ THIS BEFORE READING A Game of Persuasion! Honestly I kinda wish I had had read the first two books in the series, despite them not appealing to me, as these books seem to build a lot on each other. My review of A Game of Persuasion is really a combo of that story and this book, since it’s really actually all one book:

I’m 62% in and frankly a bit embarrassed on behalf of the heroine due to her chasing the hero so hard no matter how many times he shoves his indifference to her in her face. Just when I think she’s wising up after he tells her that he is head over heels in love with a woman who knows about his feelings for her, she’s all “Perhaps she could change him.” Ugh.

Okay, finished and immediately dove into the second book, as this is a cliffhanger extended intro/prologue. It’s all one story so they kind of blend together, but I have to say, while there is some QUALITY angst and excellent steam, I just don’t quite understand the heroine’s confidence. She’s described as plain, she’s a spinster, he’s never noticed her, he’s in love with someone else and he is a rake that is coveted by every woman in the ton? While I enjoyed her anxiety about inheriting her mother’s “madness” - her mother killed her father for his infidelity, it eclipsed the angst I was seeking, namely a plain spinster pining for a man she should think could never care for her. I have a very specific trope that I look for, and frankly, this is not it.

This was it is well-written, I couldn’t put it down, and has unique characters with a very developed plot that was much more complex and non-tropey than I was expecting, so I’m giving it 4 stars, which is usually reserved for books that nail my favored tropes.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Roman Alexander is a known rake with mistress after mistress. But what most of the ton and that certainly includes Lucy Lancester, his friends little sister,doesn't know is that Roman has a secret. Roman’s father just about destroyed the family with his gambling which caused his own death in debtor’s prison, but also caused each of his sons to face that problem differently. Roman is the oldest and holds the title of Marquis, but it is his brother Tony that kept the business matters of the estate going as Roman gallivanted about town. When his father went to prison, Roman was immature and wanted costly things but had no money. When approached by a woman of the ton who offered in exchange for his ….ahem…personal favors she would cover his debts at one of his establishments, the young Roman Alexander had no problem with such agreements. Soon, Roman was a kept man by enough women that he earned the name of “whore” but which of course was spoken behind closed doors and not in polite society. The knowledge of what he has become rips Roman apart when he must open his secret up to Lucy and risk losing her.

Lucy Lancester has been in love with Roman since she was a little girl, but doesn’t believe she can offer anything other than a fling because of her Mother’s history. Her Mother was crazy and in a fit she killed Lucy’s father and then herself. Lucy believes she is the same as her Mother and that history will repeat itself. During a night of seduction, Lucy has her one night with Roman. She then steals away and begins a new life as headmistress of a girls school. Months later who should come knocking at her school but Roman! “Get out” she says, but somehow they are found in a compromising position with her legs wrapped around him not long after! Lucy is asked to step down as headmistress of her own school. Now what is she to do?

Roman wants to marry Lucy but she continually turns him down. What started out for him as asking to keep her from ruination, develops into quite the interest as he becomes closer to her and learning more about what makes Lucy, well Lucy. In trying to make an honest man of himself he sends notice to his women which all but one seems to accept. That one will make things very difficult for Roman and Lucy. Roman also throws himself in to his role of Marquis and begins his journey of maturing and building a life that he can include Lucy in. Lucy on the other hand is building her own life. She is to become an authoress and be famous!

As these two souls move forward and slide a bit now and then, they must also battle outside influences. They have jealousy from both men and women surrounding them, an arsonist on the loose, abounding titillating gossip and their own undeniable attraction for one another. Will these two finally get together? Will they finally share their secrets and admit their love or continue to deny that love as only a physical attraction? Who is the arsonist and what is their purpose? Ah, Roman and Lucy are quite the pair in this wonderful regency romance by Emma Locke.

The Art of Ruining a Rake is the fourth book in The Naughty Girls Series by Emma Locke. Roman and Lucy first begin their journey in the book 3, A Game of Persuasion: Extended Prologue for The Art of Ruining a Rake. I received this eBook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The Art of Ruining a Rake is a great read in a wonderful series. It was amusing to read a story where it wasn’t the woman who had the reputation for being a mistress but the man! Enjoyable read!

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review written: July 10, 2016
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☀☀☼

An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.

This has to be one of the saddest books I've read recently. Nothing about either family is happy - not a thing. Lucy's family is plagued by scandal, madness, and loving in all the "wrong" places for their station. Roman's family is plagued by scandal, penury, gambling, death, and "other things".

How then to make it all come out right? I'd have to say that while the romance comes out right in the end, not all things come out right by any means. There's still no money, still the scandals (in some ways just as bad), and still the jealousy.

It seems as if Lucy is meant to be strong, but she doesn't come across that way. She seems naive, foolish, fearful, and brash born from braggadocio rather than cool and calm. Her desires are what matter and not the feelings of others. She manages to wound Roman quite seriously by not considering that he had feelings let alone considering what they may be. She has almost no character arc. She's more like the Holy Grail if Roman can just get his act together. For his part, Roman has the better character arc. He goes from feelings of worthlessness to wanting to be better to feeling worthwhile. And for all that, he comes across and pitiable and feckless.

Secondary characters like Trestin and Dare easily frustrate and drive one crazy. Dare is a painful character in the extreme. His lack of worth is almost more painful than Roman's. Trestin just flat out tries too hard. Delilah has a quiet story in the background that I found rather sad but that I'm not sure I was supposed to feel sad about.

Despite the whole "fast set" conceit, there was plenty of acceding to the mores of the time, including concerns about who could visit whom and whether it would ruin certain young ladies' prospects.

I'm not sure exactly what it was I liked about this book, except that it touched my heart with all the pain so many seemed to be struggling with throughout the book. That gets to me every time.

This review is ©July 2016 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Passionate Stars!!!!!

Copy graciously provided by Net Galley. And I am SO pleased I was granted it!!

Whyyyyyy have I not read Emma Locke before?? Gosh!!! I guess better late than never eh?! I spotted this lovely cover as I quickly scanned Net Galley for something to read....

I read and love Historical Romances for the exact reason why I LOVED The Art of Ruining A Rake, it was full of angst and passion!!! Lord, some of the pages scorchedddd my fingers!!!! I absolutely LOVED (yes I am using SHOUTY CAPS frequently for this word, because I REALLY want how truly captivated I was, to come across loud and clear) that this story surrounded a Hero that was gut-wrenchingly in love and desperate for the heroine. She, Miss Lucy, did not make Roman's task easy!!!!! Le siiiigh. I was seriously enraptured from Page 1. This story made me think of some of the MOST romantic and passion-filled Historical Romances I have read, by some really amazing authors!!!

I haven't read any of the other books in the series (and I will be rectifying that over-sight very shortly!!!!) yet I did not feel like I was missing anything. The author gave us enough of the secondary characters, that I was intrigued and invested in the whole family, and the whole story.

Lots of Smiles and Tears reading this 'most ardent' Journey of passion AND love!!!

I already 1-clicked A Game of Persuasion, Roman and Lucy's ... night together!!

Can't wait to read the other stories in this series, and I CAN.NOT.WAIT.for.Dare.!!!!!!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typical man of course he blames his woman on certain things, “whose fault is it we aren’t married?” he asked her, his body rigid with tension. “We could be doing this—” He tugged her hand hard enough to bring her stumbling into his chest. Her palm splayed across his waistcoat, holding him back as his handsome face filled with disconcerting seriousness. “Every night. Without consequences.” Roman will not deny his woman anything, “mayhap, but I’m not a saint. If you kiss me, I will always kiss you back.” I enjoyed this book from page one I fell in love with Roman, and the banter between Lucy and Roman was amusing.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, I admit it. I judged this book by its cover, so I severley underestimated it. Having never heard of the author or read the previous books in the series I thought it would a light romance-- it was anything but. There is a depth to this story that I loved! The idea of love and the actualities of love are delved into and both main characters have real growth. Color me impressed! For fans of Courtney Milan and Sherry Thomas.

[Jen P · Rating 3 out of 5]

This took me 12 days to struggle through when it usually only takes me a few days to read a book. I didn't like the heroine of the book, I didn't like her in first book or her separate prologue. I wanted to but just didn't like her. I soldiered on and struggled to finish. The writing is great just didn't enjoy this story premise. Onto the next one hopefully it will be more my cup of tea.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

So the two main characters had some good chemistry, but this book was way too drawn out. It took me 3 separate sittings weeks apart to finish this book.

[Kelly Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.

I couldn't put it down! I was pulled in straight away with the backstory with her parents and that she refused to marry him. It's very clear from the way they can't keep their hand off of each other that there is something pulling them together, but so many things are keeping them apart at the same time. They both had to grow and learn about themselves and let go of the past. I loved how the writing of a book went along with everything. The ending is one that I wasn't for sure how it would happen.

Lucy had a mind of her own and a fear from the past that kept her from marrying. She is full of surprises and I never knew how she would react to something. I loved when she finally listened to her brother and her heart. 

Roman is a rake of a different kind. He had secrets in his past that needed to be told for everyone's sake. I loved how he was so willing to change and not just for himself, but his family too. He did what he had to for everyone.

I loved seeing Roman's working together and doing what they had to do.

[Ellen Klock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy Lancaster has a dilemma and it's not one with an easy solution. She is in love, even obsessed, with her older brother Lord Trestin's best friend Roman Alexander, the Marquis of Montborne. She needs to find a way to get close to the charming rake while keeping her distance since the love of her life is simply not marriage material, but before she goes off into a life of spinsterhood, Lucy wants to experience just one night of passion.

The prequel, The Game of Persuasion (The Naughty Girls, Book #2.5) by Emma Locke, explores Lucy's quest to get Roman to notice her. Lucy is able to persuade Celeste Gray, her brother's former girlfriend (who was discarded when it was revealed she was a courtesan in The Trouble With Being Wicked, The Naughty Girls #1), to assist her in developing the necessary wiles to attract the subject of her fascination. At first Lord Montborne's attention is focused on finding potential husbands for this young woman (now 24) who had trailed around after him like a puppy dog in her youth. Due to the Marquis' reputation in The Ton, the more time he spends with Lucy, the more other men start to take notice, despite the fact that Lucy isn't beautiful like her sister. On the night of her Coming Out Ball Roman is especially attentive, but although they spend time in witty, titilating conversation, they do not dance and there is no kiss, yet there is a certain something between the two. Lucy decides to up the ante, stealing an entry card to an unsavory masquerade ball which Roman plans to attend. Her scheme works and Roman whisks her away from the surrounding suitors so they can make passionate love throughout the night. Roman finds this mysterious woman alluring only because she so closely resembles his Lucy-love. In the morning, long after she has lost her virginity, Lucy reveals her true identity. Roman's first reaction is to propose marriage, since this is a Lady he has compromised. She hotly rejects his suit, especially since he has just "cheated" on her, despite the fact that she was the one to seduce him. When her brother discovers the truth, he demands a wedding, but Lucy convinces Trestin to allow her to go to Bath and start a school for young girls - a plan that Celeste is bankrolling.

In Bath, at the School for Accomplished Young Ladies, is where How To Ruin A Rake (The Naughty Girls, #3)'begins. Here we get to experience not only Lucy's thoughts and dreams, but also Roman's yearnings. He is a lost soul, not quite sure what to do, but inexplicably drawn to Lucy. She is unlike any other woman, and he realizes that he has fallen in love with her, despite her continued rejection. After their seven month separation, the two lovers are once again drawn towards each other. When Roman confronts Lucy in her office, their passion is so strong that they have a hard time keeping their hands to themselves. When Lucy reaches out to touch Roman, pulling him towards her for a kiss, he responds and takes it much further, all without her murmuring a dissent. A locked door would have been a good idea, because the two are caught in the act and Lucy is immediately dismissed, her reputation in ruins. Even though she will not be accepted back into The Ton unless she marries the cad who compromised her, she still refuses all Roman's marriage proposals.

As the book continues, the two protagonists interact. Now in London with her brother, Lucy allows Roman to introduce her to the artistic crowd where a tattered reputation is not an issue. She quickly becomes popular with the men who frequent such locales, although she allows no one to touch her except the captivating Roman. He begins to properly court her, taking her to the more risqué events which were previously taboo. While Lucy is unable to resist matters of the heart and even initiates passionate embraces, Roman does his best to control his urges until she admits her love. However, sometimes nature can't be halted and even a few days apart is agony for the two.

This book is Roman's story and it is one of pure romance. We are alternatively caught in the heads of both lovers, sympathizing with their feelings, horrified by past deeds, anticipating romantic interludes, and yearning for a happy ending. The flawed Roman tries so hard to be redeemed, yet his past is so sordid only one who truly loves can forgive. Although Lucy's love is strong, her jealousy and fears keeps them apart. With so much baggage there seems to be no hope for the two love birds, although eventually the past is revealed and the future is resolved.

While all the introspection strongly borders on too much repetition, the angst felt by both lovers keeps us reading to see how the story will eventually play out. Roman, even with his imperfections, is the most enticing of heroes (or should I say antihero) eliciting an urge to reform him into someone worthy. Like Lucy, we simply can't get the handsome, stylish Marquis out of our heads. Luckily, the anticipated climax is fulfilling, and there are enough obstacles to keep our interest. Even though this book can be read as a stand alone, many of these characters are found in other books in this tightly connected series. The prequel, a prolonged prologue (or novella) is a must read to get the full effect.

Well done Emma Locke, you've succeeded in the primary reason to write a Regency Romance - to make the reader's heart ache. I, too, am in love with the magnetic, sexy Roman. Four Stars.

A thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC of How to Ruin A Rake in exchange for an honest review. This review also appears on my blog, Gotta Read.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a continuation of a story that began in "The Trouble With Being Wicked" and was detailed in "A Game of Persuasion". Lucy, Lord Trestin's spinster sister, has successfully accomplished her goal of seducing Roman Alexander for a single night and moved away to open a school for girls. Seven months later, Roman shows up in her life again and their actions cause her reputation to be put on the line.

I enjoyed the story and the development of both Lucy's and Roman's characters. Now I just want an update on Lucy's sister, Delilah!

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Melissa Bharwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, but I must tell you I hated the beginning the fact that Lucy seduced Roman, and then Roman seduced her at school and got her fired. Oh my what a mess, and it just didn't seem accurate with what usually happens in historical romances. But The book was amazing! Just the right amount of love, romance sultry scenes. The way Locke developed the characters overtime were just wonderful. You end up hating Roman in the beginning and by the end of it all you fall in love with Roman.
Spoiler alert, love does in reality fix everything.

Ladies this book is worth reading I honestly couldn't keep it down.

[Debbie Keith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wondrous story of healing and forgiveness clothed in a very sensual scandalous romance. I loved Lucy's strong sense of purpose and watching Woman's awakening and becoming the man he was truly meant to be. I would give it a spice level of 4 out of 5.

[Becca12348 · Rating 2 out of 5]

So boring, and I didn’t care for either of the leads. I didn’t hate it, but certainly didn’t like it. 1.5 stars rounded to 2.

[CB]

Not interested - plot

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

After being in a terrible book slump, I’m pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. The premise was cute and I liked the writing style. There was just something very easy about it. It didn’t feel stuffy like other historical romance authors I’ve read. I haven’t read the other books in the series, so I was really confused at first. The author recapped enough that I was able to make sense of things, but it probably would have been better if I’d read the previous books. It did feel a bit like someone had ripped the first couple chapters of the book out. I kind of had to play detective, piecing things together as I read.

The true star of the book had to be Roman. Oh my god, I loved him so much. He was frivolous, immature, and god knows he had made terrible life decisions. However, for some reason, I couldn’t help but like his character. He was a good balance of being charming while also having a vulnerable side. Since I didn’t read the other books, maybe I didn’t get the full magnitude of the bad things he’s done, but I felt so horrible for how he was treated. Like 90% of the people in the story were complete jerks to him. Every time someone was mean to him I just wanted to wrap my arms around him and protect him from all the bad things in the world. Even when he was trying to better himself, people were constantly thinking the worst of him. I know you’re marked by your past, but still. I wanted to punch people like Barton-Wright and Letitia for taking advantage and using him. Words can’t describe how happy I was when he finally got his happy ending.

Overall, this was a pretty solid historical romance. Roman was so wonderful that he made up for anything else that I didn’t think was as well done. You could probably get away with not reading the first two books and still understand what was going on. At the very least, I’d highly recommend reading the prologue novella the author mentions once it is released, if you don’t want to be super confused for the majority of the book.

- I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review-

[Sharon Tyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Art of Ruining a Rake is the fourth book in The Naughty Girls series of historical romances by Emma Locke. Practiced rake Roman Alexander never meant to seduce his best friend's sister, and he certainly never intends to do it again. But the damage has been done. Lucy Lancester, his buttoned-up spinster refuses to marry a bounder like him and doesn't seem to like him. Nevertheless, he can't seem to forget her, or her passionate response to his kisses. When he arrives at her school intent on proving their one night together wasn't enough and this time the scandal can't be contained.

The Art of Ruining a Rake is the first book from the series that I remember reading, although some of the characters seemed familiar to me. I still caught on to the action pretty quick, although those that have read the previous books would likely have understood the dynamic between the characters already. Lucy is terrified of her similarities to her mother, who went mad and killed Lucy's father and then herself. she wanted to experience passion with Roman, but never wanted more that that- even though most of her body and heart would gladly take everything he has to offer. She is resigned to life alone and ready to resist any offers otherwise. Roman is much more than he seems, and has troubles and secrets galore. He wants to be a better man and is determined to prove himself to both Lucy and his brothers. However, not everyone is ready to more forward and baring all his secrets might just cost him the relationship he craves most.

The Art of Ruining a Rake is an interesting read, and might have been better for me if I knew everything before starting the book. While I think I caught on quickly, the number of siblings and intersecting issues kept tossing new surprises in my lap. I still enjoyed the read, and was glad to see a book that focused more on man's efforts to better himself and earn the trust of the woman he loves rather than resorting to smooth words, trickery, or the woman doing what she is told. Lucy has her own mind, and Roman seems to encourage this rather than trying to undermine in- which gave him bonus points in my book.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 3 out of 5]

**I received a eARC copy of this book from the publisher and netgalley in exchange for an honest review**

I will be honest - I haven't read any of the other books in this series and if I had I might have read this book. The title is misleading. Roman is not a rake in my opinion. He is an altogether different sort of man-ho. And if I had any idea of this, I would have never requested this book.

Because I hadn't read the other books (which to be fair the author does say this is a tightly connected series) I felt lost. It was like everyone knew what was going on except me. The author does give enough backstory to help me understand what is going on - but I think to really enjoy this book, you would have to have read all the books in order.

Lucy loves Roman - but she doesn't really know him. And her seduction of him must have happened in another book because at the start of this book six months have passed since that night. She has refused to marry him and for whatever reason he thinks he is in love with her.

Roman has issues and lots and lots of baggage. While I didn't dislike him, I felt that he was too mercurial and in love with being in love to really take seriously as a hero.

Lucy was also on the unbelievable side. She has been ruined twice over and still believes that she can do whatever she pleases and has no consideration for the consequences of her actions.

I did like the writing and thought the story flowed pretty well. I can't say I would go back and read this series - but that would be for subject reasons and would not have anything to do with the authors abilities. I would be happy to consider her work in future series.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Art of Ruining a Rake was an enjoyable book. Lucy fell in love with her brothers best friend and had a one night stand with him. Roman is besotted with Lucy and wants to marry her but she won't have him. After being caught in a compromising position with Roman, Lucy sets out to London to become an authoress and an independent woman. Meanwhile, Roman is bound and determined to change is rakish ways and prove to Lucy he is a man worthy of her love and to be her husband. Lucy is terrified that her love for Roman will make her go mad and kill him as her mother did to her father. the story has some laughs and it also will have you clenching your teeth and wanting to yell at them both to get on with already. Roman is in debt and has been selling his favors to cover his costs of living since his father wasted the family fortune and died in debtors prison. He has decided that he wants to take over all handling of the estate from his younger brother Tony and make become the Marquess he is suppose to be. Meanwhile Lucy is trying to make a new life for herself while trying to maintain an a4ms length friendship with Roman. She meets other men but none of them enrapture her the way he does. I give the story 4 stars because it some parts it seems unnecessarily drawn out. in all it was a great book and I would recommend it to others to read

[Toula · Rating 5 out of 5]

We see how Roman got used in the short novella. Lucy used him and left . She left for Bath and opened up her School. Before that Roman asked for her hand . She said NO . A few months down the road he shows up at her school and right off the bat he tries to make her feel guilty about not marring him . They get it on right on her desk... Thing is people walk in . Wow . So she is asked to leave the school the school that she owns .
When Roman leaves the school he goes shopping. Little do the ton know that he is a kept man he pleasures women and they pay his bills where ever he needs to shop either for birches or anything.
Lucy says a few hurtful things to him and wakes up his eyes . His own brother runs the estate not him the marquee. He knows he needs to change if he wants Lucy to marry him . He starts slowly. Meanwhile Lucy wants to be an author and run in the fast crown where Roman use to run . He tries to tell the woman who has kept him "No More " he wants to Change, he needs to Change . Meanwhile him and Lucy are changing positions . I can go on but then why spoil it . Grab it yourself and find out Did Lucy change Roman . Did he tell her he was a kept man . Did she become an author . Did she Ruin Roman as a rake . Did she finally say yes to the marriage proposal. There is so much to this story . Don't miss out

[Jan Goodard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free eARC from the publisher and netgallery for an honest review.
This book is the main event following the novella, A Game of Persuasion. Previously independent Lucy "seduced" Roman. She had always loved him, but for her love was not enough so she refused his marriage offer. She was able to attain her dream of running a school for girls. Unfortunately Roman follows they are caught when she just can not resist him and so starts this story.
Roman can not understand why she does not accept him but knows he must be a better person and needs to take the reins of his estate from his brother's hands. He needs to be the on in charge and to control their spending and right their finances. He just doesn't know how but throws himself into the task. You see he has spent most of his adult life as a kept man, a cicisbeo. He is ashamed of his past and knows he needs to tell her but does not want to risk losing her.
Lucy's mother killed her father in a jealous rage. She is afraid to put her faith in Roman, afraid she would end up doing the same. Relationships are a key story in this book, the relationship between the main characters as well as this with their families. The book does develop these relationships nicely with all their undercurrents. It is nice to read a book where the characters change for the better. I do recommend it as a worthwhile read.

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series sees courtesans and man-whores (cicisbeos) find their way to love and marital stability in a society that is not lenient with their past sins and is not always ready to allow them a chance to build a new life. Marquess Roman Alexander in particular seems to be a bit dense when it comes to understand genuine love and has a long way to go to first realise the error of his ways, then to realise he may have a love worth changing his ways and fighting for and should not risk wasting his chances and losing it, so long a way that his and his heroine's arch starts in book 1 The Trouble with Being Wicked, goes on in A Game of Persuasion and climaxes in this book with the long awaited Hea. This long dragging probably wore my patience and built my expextations on the resolution scene too high (certainly I would not have liked it to be in a corridor outside a room where they are eavesdropping in two other people having kinky sex... well, you'll have to read it for the details, but I found it rather annoying) but I did not find their hea as satisfying as Dare's story in The Danger of Daring a Lady. In any case, it's a well written romance, it was good to see Lucy's love finally reciprocated and exalted in her hero's redemption. It's a very good series, even if the courtesans and man-whores trope for 6 books is probably abused.

[MyChienneLit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Roman Alexander, never meant to ruin his best friend's sister. Twice. But there they were, on the desk,in flagrante delicto, when the door opened. Lucy Lancester was fired from the girls' school she founded, and her name was linked with the Marquess in the rag sheets and she is turned out of polite society. When Lucy declines his offer of marriage--twice--Roman must take a cold, hard look in the mirror and face that he does not like the shiftless degenerate he has become. After falling prey to his wiles not once, but twice, it is clear enough Roman's imagination is not running away with him, so why did Lucy seduce him in the first place if only to rebuff him later? Is there any hope for him to ever win her heart? Can Roman change his habits and be worthy of him in her eyes? Society's? His own?

This story is by turns delightful, laugh-out-loud funny, and yet poignant and painful as Roman grapples not just with his relationship with Miss Lancester, but also with his brothers and making a place for himself in their business. The dialogue is inspired, and the depth of Roman and Lucy's characters is rare. I am looking forward to reading more books in the Naughty Girls Series.

[Meghan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Going in I knew this was part of a series, but often books are and it doesn't make much of a difference if you've read the other books before the next. This book is not like that. The author does eventually give a quick summary of what led to the current situation of Lucy and Roman, but I still felt mostly lost in the complex relationship aspects of the story. I just knew there was something I was missing that was explained in earlier books I'm sure. I felt Lucy to be a silly, girlish character. She was more in love with the idea of Roman than the actual man I think. It was such a long held, childhood fantasy that she just couldn't stay away. I don't understand how after being caught in an "undesirable position" twice already with him she still thinks she can just do what she wants in society. Also if she loves him like she says (since she's been in love with him so long), then why doesn't she just marry him already! Overall I just didn't think Lucy was a very good character, but I am going to read the small book that comes before this in order to hopefully understand it all better.

**I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a review**

[Mariel Hoss · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

The 4th in The Naughty Girls series is a good stand-alone but is more enjoyable if you've had the pleasure of reading the preceding books in the series - giving a meatier backstory to both Roman and Lucy and the great supporting cast.

Roman Alexander is rake with a parade of mistresses, a somewhat sordid past and present dictated by his immaturity at a pivotal time in his life (when his father got sent to prison) and is now facing a very hard brick wall (man-whore status). Lucy who has been in love with Roman forever, does not believe she is capable of falling in love without losing her senses, literally (Mom went nuts and killed Dad over a fit of jealousy) but thinks she can assuage her feelings by indulging in Roman just once.

Though their are heavy psychological issues plaguing both Roman and Lucy, their encounters are both funny and heart-warming. They build the relationship alongside building their lives...maturing and learning. Both hilarious and cringe-worthy events ensue that will keep you entertained to the last page...a definite one-sitting read. Recommend.