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Ladies of Passion #1
How to Play the Game of Love
When Miss Rose Wellesley's father threatens an arranged marriage, she knows she'd better settle on a choice quickly or end up having no say in who she marries. Fortunately, she's garnered a rare invitation to Lady Dunlop's Week of Love house party, an annual affair notorious for matchmaking. Her plans to expedite a proposal would go smoothly if not for the brash younger sister she must chaperone, her outspoken, disagreeable best friend, and the bullish Lord Hartfell who seems determined to dog her every step. Lord Hartfell embodies every last thing Rose dislikes in a man. He's domineering, tenacious, argumentative, and a little too casual with his nudity for her tastes. Worst of all, Rose can't seem to get him--or his kisses--out of her mind. Rose is determined to find a more appropriate husband, even if her heart disagrees with how unsuitable the stubborn lord is . . . Contains mature themes.
300 pages, ebook
Published October 17, 2016
108 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Harmony Williams
25 books156 followersHarmony Williams is the Canadian author of more than fifteen novels, including the Ladies of Passion trilogy and the Lady Katherine Regency Mysteries. She grew up in a historic rural town, where she spent most of her time with her nose in a book. Not much has changed in that respect, though she occasionally resurfaces long enough to play Dungeons and Dragons with her friends, teach her adorable niece the merits of reading, or exercise her 100-lb lapdog using her wheelchair or walker. She now lives in the suburbs with her partner, Mark, and their rescue dog, Edgar, in a house that is almost big enough to fit her book collection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 16, 2016
'How to Play the Game of Love' by Harmony Williams is book one in the "Ladies of Passion" series. This is the story of Miss Rose Wellesley and Lord Warren Hartfell.
Rose is attending a "Week of Love" party thrown by Lady Dunlop. At this party several people have come away married or engaged. Rose wants to be one of them after her father has told her he will be marrying her off to someone and she won't get a choice in the matter. So Rose thinks this party will help her find a true love and not have to marry the man her father has chosen. Rose has someone in mind, but Lord Hartfell seems to be getting in her way. Warren isn't someone she thinks she could love or put up with so she tries to continue her quest for a certain man. But is Rose really overlooking someone she could really love?
This is my first book by this author and I hope to read more. I loved the secondary characters and the story they were building too. I really couldn't put the book down once I started reading it!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Rose is attending a "Week of Love" party thrown by Lady Dunlop. At this party several people have come away married or engaged. Rose wants to be one of them after her father has told her he will be marrying her off to someone and she won't get a choice in the matter. So Rose thinks this party will help her find a true love and not have to marry the man her father has chosen. Rose has someone in mind, but Lord Hartfell seems to be getting in her way. Warren isn't someone she thinks she could love or put up with so she tries to continue her quest for a certain man. But is Rose really overlooking someone she could really love?
This is my first book by this author and I hope to read more. I loved the secondary characters and the story they were building too. I really couldn't put the book down once I started reading it!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/
http://romancebookreviewforyoublog.tu...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
November 5, 2016
Okay, I really enjoyed this. It took me awhile to get into the story because I am not a fan of the first point of view. The initial pages did tempt me and I continued reading and I am so happy I did. How to Play the Game of love was such a charming , witty, and humorous read. I found myself laughing out loud several times and eagerly clicking through the pages to get more of Rose and Warren. Their romance developed quite nicely, the chemistry was great and believable and had me smiling in pleasure. I also enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Francie. Looking forward to more from Harmony Williams.
October 24, 2016
This book was quite different from the usual historical romances that we find and a pleasant surprise.Light hearted,a little bit dramatic and a whole lot steamier, it almost read like a historical rom-com.
Rose is running out of time and Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party may be her last chance at happiness.She has rejected one too many suitors, and her father has decided that he is going to arrange a marriage for her if she doesn't choose soon.He has younger sister Daisy to think of, who will soon debut in society.He wants Rose married off before that.
The thing is Rose wants to get married for love.She has fancied herself in love a few times before,but has fallen out of it just as quickly when she found some faults in the men.At this houseparty, she hopes to meet the one person she might love to spend the rest of her life with.She sets her sights on someone.Too bad he doesn't seem that interested in her,despite the lengths she goes to in order to cross paths with him.
And he is not Lord Hartfell!Lord Hartfell is the last thing Rose needs right now, but he is determined to pursue her.To add insult to the injury he doesn't believe in love!He is like a dog with a bone and tenacious in his pursuit for her.But also arrogant,crude and quite rude at times.What will Rose do when she finds herself falling for him?And what will happen when a few secrets come to light?
Rose and Warren were quite a pair!Rose was funny,sarcastic and quite dramatic at times.The situations she got herself into were hilarious!At the same time she is also a loyal friend,sister and a loving person.I loved Rose and Warren's interactions!They locked horns at every turn,but the arguments were witty and so hot.The chemistry between them was downright sizzling!
Warren was a little irritating with his arrogance in the beginning.But even though he appeared domineering, he truly gave up control at every turn to Rose.Rose was actually the dominating one in the relationship.He was only determined to pursue her.And he had his reasons.
There wasn't any insta-love, and the plot was well-done!Never expected the things that the author came up with!The games that Lady Dunlop organized were also quite fun.
Aside from Warren and Rose's relationship, I loved the friendship she shared with Mary,Francine and Emily.The supporting cast was wonderful.
Though one might find Rose quite annoying at times, I think you must understand her true nature.It slowly unfolds as the story moves forward.This book is light hearted,so don't expect it to be too serious and stiff like other historical romances.But at the same time it has a wonderful romance,hilarious moments,cute friendships and a well developed plot.
So, give this one a try if you're looking for something different in the historical romance category!! :)
Rose is running out of time and Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party may be her last chance at happiness.She has rejected one too many suitors, and her father has decided that he is going to arrange a marriage for her if she doesn't choose soon.He has younger sister Daisy to think of, who will soon debut in society.He wants Rose married off before that.
The thing is Rose wants to get married for love.She has fancied herself in love a few times before,but has fallen out of it just as quickly when she found some faults in the men.At this houseparty, she hopes to meet the one person she might love to spend the rest of her life with.She sets her sights on someone.Too bad he doesn't seem that interested in her,despite the lengths she goes to in order to cross paths with him.
And he is not Lord Hartfell!Lord Hartfell is the last thing Rose needs right now, but he is determined to pursue her.To add insult to the injury he doesn't believe in love!He is like a dog with a bone and tenacious in his pursuit for her.But also arrogant,crude and quite rude at times.What will Rose do when she finds herself falling for him?And what will happen when a few secrets come to light?
Rose and Warren were quite a pair!Rose was funny,sarcastic and quite dramatic at times.The situations she got herself into were hilarious!At the same time she is also a loyal friend,sister and a loving person.I loved Rose and Warren's interactions!They locked horns at every turn,but the arguments were witty and so hot.The chemistry between them was downright sizzling!
Warren was a little irritating with his arrogance in the beginning.But even though he appeared domineering, he truly gave up control at every turn to Rose.Rose was actually the dominating one in the relationship.He was only determined to pursue her.And he had his reasons.
There wasn't any insta-love, and the plot was well-done!Never expected the things that the author came up with!The games that Lady Dunlop organized were also quite fun.
Aside from Warren and Rose's relationship, I loved the friendship she shared with Mary,Francine and Emily.The supporting cast was wonderful.
Though one might find Rose quite annoying at times, I think you must understand her true nature.It slowly unfolds as the story moves forward.This book is light hearted,so don't expect it to be too serious and stiff like other historical romances.But at the same time it has a wonderful romance,hilarious moments,cute friendships and a well developed plot.
So, give this one a try if you're looking for something different in the historical romance category!! :)
October 17, 2016
DNF @ 51%
This was so disappointing. I can see that the author was aiming for a humorous tale about husband hunting, but it widely missed the mark for me.
Rose is selfish, childish, fickle and obnoxious. Her ardent pursuit of a man she has barely even glimpsed is ridiculous, like her plans to play the proper miss right up until her marriage, when she will then revert to her natural not-so-ladylike ways. She’s also horrible about every woman she meets, always prefacing her love for her friends and family with some fault or other – while she of course is perfect. And beautiful, naturally.
Then there’s Lord Hartfell, or Warren as he’s also known. He easily sees through Rose’s schemes, but it’s obvious he likes her – and I have no idea why. Unless it’s for the purely shallow fact that she’s beautiful. On the outside anyway. He also has an unattractive habit of using his superior height and body mass to box Rose in at every opportunity. He never forces a kiss from her (that I read anyway) but I really didn’t like the way he treats her.
Pure stubbornness forced me to make it halfway through, determined to make it to the end in the hopes that something cataclysmic would happen to both of them. Still, when it came to the horse thing I had to give up. The idea that Warren would have been so clueless as to not know about a loose girth, or how to pick up a hoof, was almost as ridiculous as Rose’s superiority in showing him how wrong he was. Though, to be honest, I don’t think much of her as a horsewoman when she opts to go jumping while riding bareback and double mounted – especially when Warren claims to have never ridden bareback before. That’s an excellent way to injure both the horse and the pair of them. Alas, the humans survived, so I was done.
I guess this one just wasn’t for me.
(ARC from the publisher via NetGalley)
This was so disappointing. I can see that the author was aiming for a humorous tale about husband hunting, but it widely missed the mark for me.
Rose is selfish, childish, fickle and obnoxious. Her ardent pursuit of a man she has barely even glimpsed is ridiculous, like her plans to play the proper miss right up until her marriage, when she will then revert to her natural not-so-ladylike ways. She’s also horrible about every woman she meets, always prefacing her love for her friends and family with some fault or other – while she of course is perfect. And beautiful, naturally.
Then there’s Lord Hartfell, or Warren as he’s also known. He easily sees through Rose’s schemes, but it’s obvious he likes her – and I have no idea why. Unless it’s for the purely shallow fact that she’s beautiful. On the outside anyway. He also has an unattractive habit of using his superior height and body mass to box Rose in at every opportunity. He never forces a kiss from her (that I read anyway) but I really didn’t like the way he treats her.
Pure stubbornness forced me to make it halfway through, determined to make it to the end in the hopes that something cataclysmic would happen to both of them. Still, when it came to the horse thing I had to give up. The idea that Warren would have been so clueless as to not know about a loose girth, or how to pick up a hoof, was almost as ridiculous as Rose’s superiority in showing him how wrong he was. Though, to be honest, I don’t think much of her as a horsewoman when she opts to go jumping while riding bareback and double mounted – especially when Warren claims to have never ridden bareback before. That’s an excellent way to injure both the horse and the pair of them. Alas, the humans survived, so I was done.
I guess this one just wasn’t for me.
(ARC from the publisher via NetGalley)
October 23, 2016
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I only read the first five chapters, so this review is based on that. I couldn’t bear to make myself keep reading this drivel.
At first blush, I liked Rose. She had compassion for her lady’s maid, Emily, after the long journey in the coach. But that quickly faded at Rose’s constant self-indulgence. Rose openly admits to falling in, and out, of love on a whim. She has done so numerous times over the past few years, and yet cannot fathom why her sisters do not want to help her in her asinine schemes she concocts on a whim for whichever man has caught her current fancy. In one night she spots a man, declares she loves him, tries to speak to him repeatedly when he clearly has no interest in her, than trails him outside and tries to trap him into assisting her when she feigns a sprained ankle. Her selfish plan comes no fruition and yet she continues on in her attempts to get the Captain’s attention, when he is clearly courting another young lady.
I only read the first five chapters, so this review is based on that. I couldn’t bear to make myself keep reading this drivel.
At first blush, I liked Rose. She had compassion for her lady’s maid, Emily, after the long journey in the coach. But that quickly faded at Rose’s constant self-indulgence. Rose openly admits to falling in, and out, of love on a whim. She has done so numerous times over the past few years, and yet cannot fathom why her sisters do not want to help her in her asinine schemes she concocts on a whim for whichever man has caught her current fancy. In one night she spots a man, declares she loves him, tries to speak to him repeatedly when he clearly has no interest in her, than trails him outside and tries to trap him into assisting her when she feigns a sprained ankle. Her selfish plan comes no fruition and yet she continues on in her attempts to get the Captain’s attention, when he is clearly courting another young lady.
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October 15, 2016
ARC REVIEW: HOW TO PLAY THE GAME OF LOVE (LADIES OF PASSION) BY HARMONY WILLIAMS
READ AND REVIEW
HOW TO PLAY THE GAME OF LOVE (LADIES OF PASSION) BY HARMONY WILLIAMS
Release Date: October 17, 2016
SYNOPSIS
He’s everything she thinks she doesn’t want.When Miss Rose Wellesley’s father threatens an arranged marriage, she knows she'd better settle on a choice quickly or end up having no say in who she marries. Fortunately, she's garnered a rare invitation to Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party, an annual affair notorious for matchmaking. Her plans to expedite a proposal would go smoothly if not for the brash younger sister she must chaperone, her outspoken, disagreeable best friend, and the bullish Lord Hartfell who seems determined to dog her every step.Lord Hartfell embodies every last thing Rose dislikes in a man. He’s domineering, tenacious, argumentative, and a little too casual with his nudity for her tastes. Worst of all, Rose can't seem to get him—or his kisses—out of her mind.Rose is determined to find a more appropriate husband, even if her heart disagrees with how unsuitable the stubborn lord is…
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REVIEW: HOW TO PLAY THE GAME OF LOVE (LADIES OF PASSION) BY HARMONY WILLIAMS
How to Play the Game of Love by Harmony WilliamsMy rating: 3 of 5 starsARC Review: How to Play the Game of Love (Ladies of Passion) by Harmony WilliamsHarmony Williams and her cast of eccentric characters make for an amusing read. Told from Rose's point of view the reader is provided a glimpse into the heart of an independent minded women and her odd but lovable friends and family. Torn between what is expected of her and what she expects of herself, she has to decide what's more important. Listening to her heart or following the rules. Add in the mercurial chemistry between Rose and the wickedly frustrating Lord Hartfell and let the drama begin. I was more enamored of the secondary characters than the romance between Hartfell and Rose.View all my reviews
READ AND REVIEW
HOW TO PLAY THE GAME OF LOVE (LADIES OF PASSION) BY HARMONY WILLIAMS
Release Date: October 17, 2016
SYNOPSIS
He’s everything she thinks she doesn’t want.When Miss Rose Wellesley’s father threatens an arranged marriage, she knows she'd better settle on a choice quickly or end up having no say in who she marries. Fortunately, she's garnered a rare invitation to Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party, an annual affair notorious for matchmaking. Her plans to expedite a proposal would go smoothly if not for the brash younger sister she must chaperone, her outspoken, disagreeable best friend, and the bullish Lord Hartfell who seems determined to dog her every step.Lord Hartfell embodies every last thing Rose dislikes in a man. He’s domineering, tenacious, argumentative, and a little too casual with his nudity for her tastes. Worst of all, Rose can't seem to get him—or his kisses—out of her mind.Rose is determined to find a more appropriate husband, even if her heart disagrees with how unsuitable the stubborn lord is…
BUY LINKS
Amazon B & N Google Play Books IBooks Kobo
REVIEW: HOW TO PLAY THE GAME OF LOVE (LADIES OF PASSION) BY HARMONY WILLIAMS
How to Play the Game of Love by Harmony WilliamsMy rating: 3 of 5 starsARC Review: How to Play the Game of Love (Ladies of Passion) by Harmony WilliamsHarmony Williams and her cast of eccentric characters make for an amusing read. Told from Rose's point of view the reader is provided a glimpse into the heart of an independent minded women and her odd but lovable friends and family. Torn between what is expected of her and what she expects of herself, she has to decide what's more important. Listening to her heart or following the rules. Add in the mercurial chemistry between Rose and the wickedly frustrating Lord Hartfell and let the drama begin. I was more enamored of the secondary characters than the romance between Hartfell and Rose.View all my reviews
October 10, 2016
The premise of this book was interesting and started off well as a romantic comedy. Unfortunately, the farther I read, the less and less funny it got and the less and less I liked the heroine. She was shallow, immature, and fickle, sparing little thought for her sister or her friends and apparently having a history of getting men to fall in love with her and then dumping them. Frankly, the way she acted, I'm shocked that our hero fell in love with her! She was mean to him and continuously pushed him away while chasing a man who obviously had no interest in her, but was interested in one of the other characters. She claimed that she was looking for love but really seemed to want to trap someone into marriage by having him fall in love with the facade she presented, marry her, and once it was too late for him to escape, revert to her true self. It's obvious that she had no idea what love truly is. Another annoyance were the distinctly modern phrases and words peppered throughout the narrative, effectively dragging the reader away from the time period and back into the present. I was determined to finish the book but found myself frequently checking how much was left because I couldn't wait for it to be over! This book needs a good, professional editor to rescue it from itself. I'm afraid that I cannot recommend this book.
Disclaimer: this book was provided to me in exchange for an unbiased review.
Disclaimer: this book was provided to me in exchange for an unbiased review.
October 10, 2016
I loved this lighthearted novel. It's quite entertaining story, full of humour, intrigue, and romance. All the characters are amazing. I enjoyed reading it a lot, in fact I read it in one sitting, simply couldn't put it down once I started.
Rose wants to fall in love before she marries. She has rejected many suitors and her father is getting tired of her antics. So now she has been given a warning, either she accepts marriage proposal from one of many young men who have already proposed to her or else her father will arrange a marriage for her. Rose will not let him do that so it's up to her to find love as soon as possible. In fact she even has a man in sight. Little does she know that there is someone who has been watching her too.
Lord Hartfell might not believe in love but he must admit that there is something about Miss Rose that he simply cannot overlook or ignore. Since the moment he set eyes on her he wants to spent more time with her, getting to know her is quite fun actually. She may pose like a proper lady but teh truth is that she is wild. He likes that. So no matter how much Rose wants him to leave her alone he simply can't do that...
It's an interesting historical fiction which I loved reading. I'd recommend it to all romance readers.
Rose wants to fall in love before she marries. She has rejected many suitors and her father is getting tired of her antics. So now she has been given a warning, either she accepts marriage proposal from one of many young men who have already proposed to her or else her father will arrange a marriage for her. Rose will not let him do that so it's up to her to find love as soon as possible. In fact she even has a man in sight. Little does she know that there is someone who has been watching her too.
Lord Hartfell might not believe in love but he must admit that there is something about Miss Rose that he simply cannot overlook or ignore. Since the moment he set eyes on her he wants to spent more time with her, getting to know her is quite fun actually. She may pose like a proper lady but teh truth is that she is wild. He likes that. So no matter how much Rose wants him to leave her alone he simply can't do that...
It's an interesting historical fiction which I loved reading. I'd recommend it to all romance readers.
Read
July 15, 2019Read this book if you like:
• 1st person perspective
• Enemies to lovers
• Forced proximity
• Stolen kisses
• A competitive hero who never backs down from a challenge
• A prickly heroine who learns not to be so hard on herself and others
• A turbulent sibling relationship that grows closer by the end
• (my favorite part) best friends who are always there for each other
• 1st person perspective
• Enemies to lovers
• Forced proximity
• Stolen kisses
• A competitive hero who never backs down from a challenge
• A prickly heroine who learns not to be so hard on herself and others
• A turbulent sibling relationship that grows closer by the end
• (my favorite part) best friends who are always there for each other
October 11, 2016
Miss Rose Wellesley has been given a week to find a husband she wants or her father will choose for her. So she is off to a house party with her sister and best friends. The hostess is known as a matchmaker.
The one thing Rose is looking for is love.
Lord Warren Hartfell is doing all he can to stop Rose from being with anyone except him. The hostess is playing right into his hands.
This infuriates Rose no end.
This is a funny and at times emotional story. The silly games the hostess organises are designed to encourage romance. Our hero is a little arrogant. Our heroine is extremely stubborn and has been trying to hide her true character.
A light hearted and very enjoyable book. I loved it.
The one thing Rose is looking for is love.
Lord Warren Hartfell is doing all he can to stop Rose from being with anyone except him. The hostess is playing right into his hands.
This infuriates Rose no end.
This is a funny and at times emotional story. The silly games the hostess organises are designed to encourage romance. Our hero is a little arrogant. Our heroine is extremely stubborn and has been trying to hide her true character.
A light hearted and very enjoyable book. I loved it.
dnf
October 15, 2016I had to dnf, it was just too simple. The language not at all historical, they felt modern and the main character was not nice, the hero an ass. Just no. It felt ..self published, I guess like no one gave it a second look over
October 24, 2016
This book was amazing, it was a fun and quick read! The characters were really well developed and I loved their personalities. It was full of humor as well as romance, and just the right mix of the hot and steamy moments. It will keep you wondering how it will all turn out right in the end!
March 15, 2022
I give up. the h is unlikeable and she plays with the rules of society to suit her Whims/wants and that just does not make sense to me.
January 6, 2025
This book was quite different from the usual historical romances that we find and a pleasant surprise.Light hearted,a little bit dramatic and a whole lot steamier, it almost read like a historical rom-com.
Rose is running out of time and Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party may be her last chance at happiness.She has rejected one too many suitors, and her father has decided that he is going to arrange a marriage for her if she doesn't choose soon.He has younger sister Daisy to think of, who will soon debut in society.He wants Rose married off before that.
The thing is Rose wants to get married for love.She has fancied herself in love a few times before,but has fallen out of it just as quickly when she found some faults in the men.At this houseparty, she hopes to meet the one person she might love to spend the rest of her life with.She sets her sights on someone.Too bad he doesn't seem that interested in her,despite the lengths she goes to in order to cross paths with him.
And he is not Lord Hartfell!Lord Hartfell is the last thing Rose needs right now, but he is determined to pursue her.To add insult to the injury he doesn't believe in love!He is like a dog with a bone and tenacious in his pursuit for her.But also arrogant,crude and quite rude at times.What will Rose do when she finds herself falling for him?And what will happen when a few secrets come to light?
Rose and Warren were quite a pair!Rose was funny,sarcastic and quite dramatic at times.The situations she got herself into were hilarious!At the same time she is also a loyal friend,sister and a loving person.I loved Rose and Warren's interactions!They locked horns at every turn,but the arguments were witty and so hot.The chemistry between them was downright sizzling!
Warren was a little irritating with his arrogance in the beginning.But even though he appeared domineering, he truly gave up control at every turn to Rose.Rose was actually the dominating one in the relationship.He was only determined to pursue her.And he had his reasons.
There wasn't any insta-love, and the plot was well-done!Never expected the things that the author came up with!The games that Lady Dunlop organized were also quite fun.
Aside from Warren and Rose's relationship, I loved the friendship she shared with Mary,Francine and Emily.The supporting cast was wonderful.
Though one might find Rose quite annoying at times, I think you must understand her true nature.It slowly unfolds as the story moves forward.This book is light hearted,so don't expect it to be too serious and stiff like other historical romances.But at the same time it has a wonderful romance,hilarious moments,cute friendships and a well developed plot.
So, give this one a try if you're looking for something different in the historical romance category!! :)
Rose is running out of time and Lady Dunlop's "Week of Love" house party may be her last chance at happiness.She has rejected one too many suitors, and her father has decided that he is going to arrange a marriage for her if she doesn't choose soon.He has younger sister Daisy to think of, who will soon debut in society.He wants Rose married off before that.
The thing is Rose wants to get married for love.She has fancied herself in love a few times before,but has fallen out of it just as quickly when she found some faults in the men.At this houseparty, she hopes to meet the one person she might love to spend the rest of her life with.She sets her sights on someone.Too bad he doesn't seem that interested in her,despite the lengths she goes to in order to cross paths with him.
And he is not Lord Hartfell!Lord Hartfell is the last thing Rose needs right now, but he is determined to pursue her.To add insult to the injury he doesn't believe in love!He is like a dog with a bone and tenacious in his pursuit for her.But also arrogant,crude and quite rude at times.What will Rose do when she finds herself falling for him?And what will happen when a few secrets come to light?
Rose and Warren were quite a pair!Rose was funny,sarcastic and quite dramatic at times.The situations she got herself into were hilarious!At the same time she is also a loyal friend,sister and a loving person.I loved Rose and Warren's interactions!They locked horns at every turn,but the arguments were witty and so hot.The chemistry between them was downright sizzling!
Warren was a little irritating with his arrogance in the beginning.But even though he appeared domineering, he truly gave up control at every turn to Rose.Rose was actually the dominating one in the relationship.He was only determined to pursue her.And he had his reasons.
There wasn't any insta-love, and the plot was well-done!Never expected the things that the author came up with!The games that Lady Dunlop organized were also quite fun.
Aside from Warren and Rose's relationship, I loved the friendship she shared with Mary,Francine and Emily.The supporting cast was wonderful.
Though one might find Rose quite annoying at times, I think you must understand her true nature.It slowly unfolds as the story moves forward.This book is light hearted,so don't expect it to be too serious and stiff like other historical romances.But at the same time it has a wonderful romance,hilarious moments,cute friendships and a well developed plot.
So, give this one a try if you're looking for something different in the historical romance category!! :)
October 24, 2016
3.5 Stars
How to Play the Game of Love begins with Rose arriving at Lady Dunlop’s house party. She and her sister, along with a couple of friends, are there for the week. A very long week…….. Rose has her sights set on one man who is supposed to be in attendance as well. As the festivities begin, she is bound and determined to not only catch his eye, but to wrangle a proposal out of him as well. However, when he appears to have his sights set on someone else, coupled with the fact that he has a war to return to, Rose grows almost desperate. She tries to orchestrate “chance” meetings with him, only to be thwarted at every turn. It seems Lord Hartfell has made it his mission to keep her busy, if only she knew why….
How to Play the Game of Love has a good premise. Rose is determined to find her own husband, and I was on board with that. The supporting characters were interesting as well. I’m also all in for a stubborn woman wanting to make her own way, but Rose pushed stubborn so hard, she looked like a spoiled brat. The saving grace for me was Lord Hartfell. The way he stayed true to his cause and his pursuit of Rose was nicely written. I loved the way he handled her tantrums (albeit too many!) and I loved the way he fell for her. There were parts that were truly funny, especially the last quarter of the book. I know this is historical, but the way the “Week of Love” was handled was just too much. There were so many games the hostess had them play that I grew bored after the first few. With all of that said, the author did a good job keeping the story flowing, but it was just too long with all of the games and such. I do look forward to giving this series another go, because as I said earlier, the supporting characters were very interesting and I look forward to seeing who is up next.
How to Play the Game of Love begins with Rose arriving at Lady Dunlop’s house party. She and her sister, along with a couple of friends, are there for the week. A very long week…….. Rose has her sights set on one man who is supposed to be in attendance as well. As the festivities begin, she is bound and determined to not only catch his eye, but to wrangle a proposal out of him as well. However, when he appears to have his sights set on someone else, coupled with the fact that he has a war to return to, Rose grows almost desperate. She tries to orchestrate “chance” meetings with him, only to be thwarted at every turn. It seems Lord Hartfell has made it his mission to keep her busy, if only she knew why….
How to Play the Game of Love has a good premise. Rose is determined to find her own husband, and I was on board with that. The supporting characters were interesting as well. I’m also all in for a stubborn woman wanting to make her own way, but Rose pushed stubborn so hard, she looked like a spoiled brat. The saving grace for me was Lord Hartfell. The way he stayed true to his cause and his pursuit of Rose was nicely written. I loved the way he handled her tantrums (albeit too many!) and I loved the way he fell for her. There were parts that were truly funny, especially the last quarter of the book. I know this is historical, but the way the “Week of Love” was handled was just too much. There were so many games the hostess had them play that I grew bored after the first few. With all of that said, the author did a good job keeping the story flowing, but it was just too long with all of the games and such. I do look forward to giving this series another go, because as I said earlier, the supporting characters were very interesting and I look forward to seeing who is up next.
June 9, 2020
If I had read a first chapter excerpt, I doubt I'd have downloaded this. I nearly stopped reading during the first chapter. It seemed to me a too awkward try at humor through exaggeration. But I continued and must say I did enjoy reading of fickle Rose's exploits, although a bit predictable and the identity of Lord Hartfell's fiancé was easily guessed when first mentioned.
The story takes place at the house party of Lady Dunlop, a hostess known for successful matchmaking. Rose arrives with her not-yet-out sister and two friends, Mary and Francine.
Rose is supposed to chaperone her sister, but thinks nothing of crawling through a window into the unknown when she finds herself locked in a room with her friend.
- Spoiler alert - From what the reader can discern Hartfell was not one of Rose's suitors, therefore it is a mystery how the betrothal arranged by her father came to be.
The story takes place at the house party of Lady Dunlop, a hostess known for successful matchmaking. Rose arrives with her not-yet-out sister and two friends, Mary and Francine.
Rose is supposed to chaperone her sister, but thinks nothing of crawling through a window into the unknown when she finds herself locked in a room with her friend.
- Spoiler alert - From what the reader can discern Hartfell was not one of Rose's suitors, therefore it is a mystery how the betrothal arranged by her father came to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2023
Rose has 1 week at Lady Dunlop's Week of Love house party to find true love of her father will betroth her to someone she's already turned down. She finds her prey the first night Frederick the boy that was kind to her when they were children, but she can't seem to get him to pay her any attention and Warren, Lord Hartfell, has been interfering non stop and she can't seem to stop herself from kissing him which is frustrating when he tells her he doesn't believe in love and then infuriating when he tells her he's engaged.
I found Rose a bit frustrating because she falls in and out of love every other week it seems and Warren a bit frustrating for how he decided to go about wooing her just because it pricked his pride that she was interested in someone else. Once they started being more direct with each other it was much more interesting though.
I found Rose a bit frustrating because she falls in and out of love every other week it seems and Warren a bit frustrating for how he decided to go about wooing her just because it pricked his pride that she was interested in someone else. Once they started being more direct with each other it was much more interesting though.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This is an interesting story, with some twists and turns. Warren and Rose are interesting, complex, complicated, intriguing, entertaining characters. I enjoyed many of their interactions and exchanges. The house party is fun, with many things going on for different characters. The romance is interesting and entertaining to read. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story. The story is easy to read.
This is an interesting story, with some twists and turns. Warren and Rose are interesting, complex, complicated, intriguing, entertaining characters. I enjoyed many of their interactions and exchanges. The house party is fun, with many things going on for different characters. The romance is interesting and entertaining to read. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story. The story is easy to read.
February 8, 2018
I enjoyed this book and loved meeting all the woman and I look forward to seeing how their stories play out. I've gotten used to seeing the hero's point of view as well as the heroine so it was different just to see through the heroine's eyes. I was dying of embarrassment for her at the start of the party but it was funny too.
May 13, 2020
Fun Entertainment!
This is one of those stories that is very easy to read, is light with lots of fun parts, has lovely characters who engage you and make you want to find out what they will be getting up to next.
Loved this wonderful piece of good humor and entertainment and am definitely recommending it.
This is one of those stories that is very easy to read, is light with lots of fun parts, has lovely characters who engage you and make you want to find out what they will be getting up to next.
Loved this wonderful piece of good humor and entertainment and am definitely recommending it.
May 16, 2020
I loved it
This author reminds me of my favorite author Collette Cameron. Her writing style is very similar. I love the humour and eventually the romance that comes after all the pushing away. This is a good read much recommended
This author reminds me of my favorite author Collette Cameron. Her writing style is very similar. I love the humour and eventually the romance that comes after all the pushing away. This is a good read much recommended
June 17, 2020
Good book.
The story was good, the characters relatable and the plot was believable.
The only thing I was missing was a few twists to enliven the storyline. There was only one twist and it was boring in my opinion.
Enjoyable but also lacking.
The story was good, the characters relatable and the plot was believable.
The only thing I was missing was a few twists to enliven the storyline. There was only one twist and it was boring in my opinion.
Enjoyable but also lacking.
June 21, 2025
This book is in 1st person
Now I understand why people say that Historical Romances can't be in 1st person
Imagine being inside the mind of a young lady from the aristocracy over 100 years ago
I just couldn't finish it
Not even with one of my favorite narrators trying her best
Now I understand why people say that Historical Romances can't be in 1st person
Imagine being inside the mind of a young lady from the aristocracy over 100 years ago
I just couldn't finish it
Not even with one of my favorite narrators trying her best
October 23, 2017
A great read- about time we had something different in this genre! Thank you, Ms. Williams, for a fresh voice in Regency romance!
February 23, 2019
Delightful
Dialogue driven romantic romp no antagonist just the search for a love match that seemed ever elusive to our heroine
Dialogue driven romantic romp no antagonist just the search for a love match that seemed ever elusive to our heroine
Read
September 16, 2023Loved it
February 5, 2024
it was fine! not memorable and very repetitive. loved emily and mary <3
May 12, 2025
Seems a bit silly. Didn’t see them in love…wrapped up too fast.
May 18, 2025
It’s just…bad. Given how many books this author has written she should have figured out how to write a decent narrative with believable (non whiny!) characters.
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