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Love's Second Chance Complete Series #5
Despised & Desired: The Marquess' Passionate Wife
A tortured hero. A lady with the heart of a lion. And an unbreakable bond.
ELSBETH MUNFORD is set to marry a dashing viscount until an accident destroys her life. Devastated, Ellie resigns herself to a life of spinsterhood, her beauty tainted by ugly scars.
Until one day, when she receives a proposal of marriage…from a man she loved long ago.
FREDERICK LANCASTER, brother to the MARQUESS OF ELMRIDGE, returns home from war. Unable to make his peace with the past, he retreats into the dark until his brother dies unexpectedly and Frederick is thrust into a world of duty. In order to father an heir, he agrees to marry…a woman he does not remember.
Can Frederick see past Ellie’s scars? Will Ellie be able to heal his wounded soul?
This tale by a USA TODAY bestselling author of two broken souls searching for love shows that sometimes the most painful scars are the ones we cannot see.
If you like marriage of convenience stories with a touch of mystery, a dash of humour as well as heartfelt emotion, then you’ll love this instalment of Bree Wolf’s emotionally charged Love’s Second Chance Series. Buy DESPISED AND DESIRED, grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite reading spot and start this swoon worthy romance now!
Love's Second Chance Series
#1 Forgotten & Remembered - The Duke's Late Wife (Rosabel & Graham)
#2 Cursed & Cherished - The Duke's Wilful Wife (Anna & Edmond)
#3 Despised & Desired - The Marquess' Passionate Wife (Ellie & Frederick)
#4 Abandoned & Protected - The Marquis' Tenacious Wife (Henrietta & Connor)
#5 Ruined & Redeemed - The Earl's Fallen Wife (Charlotte & Sebastian)
#6 Betrayed & Blessed - The Viscount's Shrewd Wife (Beth & Tristan)
#7 Deceived & Honoured - The Baron’s Vexing Wife (Madeline & Derek)
More to follow:
#8 Sacrificed & Reclaimed - The Soldier's Daring Widow (Meagan & Edward) (Bonus Novella)
A Forbidden Love Novella Series
#1 The Wrong Brother
#2 A Brilliant Rose
#3 The Forgotten Wife
#4 An Unwelcome Proposal
#5 Rules to Be Broken
#6 Hearts to Be Mended
To Follow:
#7 Winning her Hand
#8 Conquering her Heart
ELSBETH MUNFORD is set to marry a dashing viscount until an accident destroys her life. Devastated, Ellie resigns herself to a life of spinsterhood, her beauty tainted by ugly scars.
Until one day, when she receives a proposal of marriage…from a man she loved long ago.
FREDERICK LANCASTER, brother to the MARQUESS OF ELMRIDGE, returns home from war. Unable to make his peace with the past, he retreats into the dark until his brother dies unexpectedly and Frederick is thrust into a world of duty. In order to father an heir, he agrees to marry…a woman he does not remember.
Can Frederick see past Ellie’s scars? Will Ellie be able to heal his wounded soul?
This tale by a USA TODAY bestselling author of two broken souls searching for love shows that sometimes the most painful scars are the ones we cannot see.
If you like marriage of convenience stories with a touch of mystery, a dash of humour as well as heartfelt emotion, then you’ll love this instalment of Bree Wolf’s emotionally charged Love’s Second Chance Series. Buy DESPISED AND DESIRED, grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite reading spot and start this swoon worthy romance now!
Love's Second Chance Series
#1 Forgotten & Remembered - The Duke's Late Wife (Rosabel & Graham)
#2 Cursed & Cherished - The Duke's Wilful Wife (Anna & Edmond)
#3 Despised & Desired - The Marquess' Passionate Wife (Ellie & Frederick)
#4 Abandoned & Protected - The Marquis' Tenacious Wife (Henrietta & Connor)
#5 Ruined & Redeemed - The Earl's Fallen Wife (Charlotte & Sebastian)
#6 Betrayed & Blessed - The Viscount's Shrewd Wife (Beth & Tristan)
#7 Deceived & Honoured - The Baron’s Vexing Wife (Madeline & Derek)
More to follow:
#8 Sacrificed & Reclaimed - The Soldier's Daring Widow (Meagan & Edward) (Bonus Novella)
A Forbidden Love Novella Series
#1 The Wrong Brother
#2 A Brilliant Rose
#3 The Forgotten Wife
#4 An Unwelcome Proposal
#5 Rules to Be Broken
#6 Hearts to Be Mended
To Follow:
#7 Winning her Hand
#8 Conquering her Heart
314 pages, ebook
First published June 22, 2016
2259 people are currently reading
1631 people want to read
About the author
Bree Wolf
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Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
Excited for my new series? The Flames of Winter Series:
An epic love story that spans across an entire series. Ensure that you have a good cup of tea, something to nibble on and perhaps a box of tissues at hand before you dive into this slow-burn Regency romance full of enchanting moments between Sarah and Keir, the little wisp and the highlander.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
June 22, 2016
Despised and Desired is another wonderful heartfelt book by Bree Wolf. This woman brings the characters alive in the most beautiful way. Her characters are not flawless beauties of the first water. The characters in this story are beautiful in their deepest reaches inside.
Elsbeth Munford may very well have been a beauty except there was a terrible accident that scarred her and took away the man she was set to marry and took away the veil of beauty that most men were looking for.
When Frederick a guilt ridden, wounded soldier returns home from the war his life is turned upside down by the death of his father and then the unexpected title being dropped onto his head. His mother complicates the matter by stating his new goal is to marry and produce an heir.
Frederick is so cut off from his own emotions that he will not allow anyone into his heart. He can not because he questions his own self worth. He is a man broken inside. When Elsbeth ( Ellie) and Frederick meet again, they have much work to do if they are going to have a life together.
Once again, I loved this book. I love the little light of hope that Ellie offers Rick and I love the women that have supporting roles in this story. They all have a wonderful gift to share with each other. It was a lovely read.
Elsbeth Munford may very well have been a beauty except there was a terrible accident that scarred her and took away the man she was set to marry and took away the veil of beauty that most men were looking for.
When Frederick a guilt ridden, wounded soldier returns home from the war his life is turned upside down by the death of his father and then the unexpected title being dropped onto his head. His mother complicates the matter by stating his new goal is to marry and produce an heir.
Frederick is so cut off from his own emotions that he will not allow anyone into his heart. He can not because he questions his own self worth. He is a man broken inside. When Elsbeth ( Ellie) and Frederick meet again, they have much work to do if they are going to have a life together.
Once again, I loved this book. I love the little light of hope that Ellie offers Rick and I love the women that have supporting roles in this story. They all have a wonderful gift to share with each other. It was a lovely read.
April 26, 2020
Scarred war hero and scarred heroine!!
Best of the series so far!
Best of the series so far!
June 27, 2017
Couldn't get invested
Had higher hopes for this book. It was a lot of telling how the characters felt and what they went through but I never felt connected at all to them or felt for what they went through. Virtually no romance, interaction, or conversation between couple. It was a lot of 'they told each other their story and understood each other better' only once did we get to experience a conversation between them with actual dialogue.
Not the best but not the worst. I just could not get connected or invested in the characters. And too many women's names that began with "M"! Half the time I had to go back to see which character we were talking about.
Had higher hopes for this book. It was a lot of telling how the characters felt and what they went through but I never felt connected at all to them or felt for what they went through. Virtually no romance, interaction, or conversation between couple. It was a lot of 'they told each other their story and understood each other better' only once did we get to experience a conversation between them with actual dialogue.
Not the best but not the worst. I just could not get connected or invested in the characters. And too many women's names that began with "M"! Half the time I had to go back to see which character we were talking about.
March 12, 2018
I just started reading Bree Wolf's Love's Second Change series and this one has to be my favorite so far. Why? I love damaged souls and Frederick is exactly that. He comes home from war to become the Marquess of Elmridge. His mother chooses his bride and the last thing Frederick expected was to fall in love. Sweeping romance and I can't wait to read the next one.
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
June 28, 2016
The 3th instalment in this series but it is perfectly readable as a stand alone .
Bree Wolf has a very own writing style and she clearly has not followed the : How to write a Regency Romance Book course , which most of the new writers seem to have taken . She writes about deep feelings , emotions in an almost psychological way .
How the storyline goes ? well ... read the book and find out for yourself :-) Enjoy !!!
Bree Wolf has a very own writing style and she clearly has not followed the : How to write a Regency Romance Book course , which most of the new writers seem to have taken . She writes about deep feelings , emotions in an almost psychological way .
How the storyline goes ? well ... read the book and find out for yourself :-) Enjoy !!!
December 9, 2023
A little too.long
It just dragged on. The heroine was great. A little Pollyanna-ish but I liked her. The hero not so much. After they were married he was very cold to her and I hated that. He was just so depressing. But she brought him and his family back to life. But someone is not happy about it and tries to take it all away. It wasn't that suspenseful though and it seemed to be almost forgotten by the middle of the book. So I wasn't sure where it was going but it all came around. Clean story. Fade to black intimate scenes.
It just dragged on. The heroine was great. A little Pollyanna-ish but I liked her. The hero not so much. After they were married he was very cold to her and I hated that. He was just so depressing. But she brought him and his family back to life. But someone is not happy about it and tries to take it all away. It wasn't that suspenseful though and it seemed to be almost forgotten by the middle of the book. So I wasn't sure where it was going but it all came around. Clean story. Fade to black intimate scenes.
February 11, 2017
Loved it
This book was my favorite of the series. There were no spies, no evil kidnappings, no shallow characters, and it even had an epilogue! The characters were all fleshed out, they actually had conversations, rather than just having you read their thoughts. I'm looking forward to the next book. I like seeing other people of the series popping up and seeing interactions between them; just seeing a glimpse of where life has taken them.
This book was my favorite of the series. There were no spies, no evil kidnappings, no shallow characters, and it even had an epilogue! The characters were all fleshed out, they actually had conversations, rather than just having you read their thoughts. I'm looking forward to the next book. I like seeing other people of the series popping up and seeing interactions between them; just seeing a glimpse of where life has taken them.
June 22, 2016
Despised and Desired is another wonderful heartfelt book by Bree Wolf. This woman brings the characters alive in the most beautiful way. Her characters are not flawless beauties of the first water. The characters in this story are beautiful in their deepest reaches inside.
Elsbeth Munford may very well have been a beauty except there was a terrible accident that scarred her and took away the man she was set to marry and took away the veil of beauty that most men were looking for.
When Frederick a guilt ridden, wounded soldier returns home from the war his life is turned upside down by the death of his father and then the unexpected title being dropped onto his head. His mother complicates the matter by stating his new goal is to marry and produce an heir.
Fredrick is so cut off from his own emotions that he will not allow anyone into his heart. He can not because he questions his own self worth. He is a man broken inside. When Elsbeth ( Ellie) and Frederick meet again, they have much work to do if they are going to have a life together.
Once again, I loved this book. I love the little light of hope that Ellie offers Rick and I love the women that have supporting roles in this story. They all have a wonderful gift to share with each other. It was a lovely read.
Elsbeth Munford may very well have been a beauty except there was a terrible accident that scarred her and took away the man she was set to marry and took away the veil of beauty that most men were looking for.
When Frederick a guilt ridden, wounded soldier returns home from the war his life is turned upside down by the death of his father and then the unexpected title being dropped onto his head. His mother complicates the matter by stating his new goal is to marry and produce an heir.
Fredrick is so cut off from his own emotions that he will not allow anyone into his heart. He can not because he questions his own self worth. He is a man broken inside. When Elsbeth ( Ellie) and Frederick meet again, they have much work to do if they are going to have a life together.
Once again, I loved this book. I love the little light of hope that Ellie offers Rick and I love the women that have supporting roles in this story. They all have a wonderful gift to share with each other. It was a lovely read.
August 14, 2019
First thing, the female main character in the story has burn scars on her neck, arms, and hands, this is integral to the story and comes up over and over again. What's up with the book cover? It bothered me that there isn't even a hint of scarring on the very pretty book cover model. If they really couldn't find anyone with enough makeup skills to even fake a sunburn they could have found a good sized lace fan or something to strategically cover her neck. Instead the author/publisher emphasized the fact that only pretty perfect and thin girls get to be cover models for romance books, girls with scars need not apply. Ugh.
The second thing that just put me off completely was my problem with romance novels about people with serious mental or emotional problems who jump into a marriage and the spouse is then expected to "fix" them. The male main character in this one was pretty much suicidal and everyone from his mother to his best friend were all pointing fingers at his new wife as the solution.
Lastly, I just found the whole story kind of depressing and the happy ending a little forced and awkward with the epilogue being downright disturbing.
Violence, makeout scenes, mild language
The second thing that just put me off completely was my problem with romance novels about people with serious mental or emotional problems who jump into a marriage and the spouse is then expected to "fix" them. The male main character in this one was pretty much suicidal and everyone from his mother to his best friend were all pointing fingers at his new wife as the solution.
Lastly, I just found the whole story kind of depressing and the happy ending a little forced and awkward with the epilogue being downright disturbing.
Violence, makeout scenes, mild language
November 27, 2017
Bree did it again! I like her writing style, she makes you be part of the book and the characters become alive. I hope to read other books of this author as she has an amazing way of writing as she writes about deep feelings and emotions.
December 2, 2021
Very cliché with a very familiar plot line. Too much head talk. It is amazing how h knows what other people actually feels only through a blank look or a smile (no words spoken). She is too goody goody who is savior of everyone around her.
February 27, 2018
Beautiful story. Really enjoying this author’s writing. Looking forward to the next.
September 30, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This story broke my heart into a million pieces and then slowly, painstakingly stitched them back together. But I loved every minute of it. 😭
Overwhelmed with grief and guilt Frederick believes that the only way to find peace is to head back to the familiarity of the battlefield. It was so heartbreaking seeing Frederick struggle to fit in with society after returning home from war. I felt his anguish as he tried to cope with his scars, both physical and emotional.
Elsbeth was a breath of fresh air. She too has her own scars but she does a great job of remaining positive. Although some make insensitive/cutting remarks about her scars, I loved that she kept her head held high. I also admired her patience and resilience in helping Frederick. She not only understood him but was able to provide him with just what he needed to battle his demons.
I loved the author’s writing style. I was completely immersed into the story. I felt every emotion both MCs experiences and although they at times brought tears to my eyes, I enjoyed this book even more for it. Ellie and Rick’s journey to each other is a sweet and heart wrenching one. The main characters were outstanding, the supporting characters were amazing and the plot was phenomenal. I loved everything about this book, including the hint on suspense. I could not have asked for a better story. Will definitely be reading this again. 🥰🥰🥰
CONTENT
Romance: Clean, Fade to black intimacy
Violence: Moderate (talk of war)
Language: Mild
Overwhelmed with grief and guilt Frederick believes that the only way to find peace is to head back to the familiarity of the battlefield. It was so heartbreaking seeing Frederick struggle to fit in with society after returning home from war. I felt his anguish as he tried to cope with his scars, both physical and emotional.
Elsbeth was a breath of fresh air. She too has her own scars but she does a great job of remaining positive. Although some make insensitive/cutting remarks about her scars, I loved that she kept her head held high. I also admired her patience and resilience in helping Frederick. She not only understood him but was able to provide him with just what he needed to battle his demons.
I loved the author’s writing style. I was completely immersed into the story. I felt every emotion both MCs experiences and although they at times brought tears to my eyes, I enjoyed this book even more for it. Ellie and Rick’s journey to each other is a sweet and heart wrenching one. The main characters were outstanding, the supporting characters were amazing and the plot was phenomenal. I loved everything about this book, including the hint on suspense. I could not have asked for a better story. Will definitely be reading this again. 🥰🥰🥰
CONTENT
Romance: Clean, Fade to black intimacy
Violence: Moderate (talk of war)
Language: Mild
January 29, 2024
Well, i have officially finished my first audio book. While I enjoyed this story, I don't know if i would classify it as a romance, more like woman's fiction with romantic elements.
I loved the herione, Ellie. She was so strong, patient, and kind. She is what kept me reading. The hero Frederick left a little to be desired. I swear that dude bitched for almost the entire book. I have no idea how Ellie didn't just smack him.
Anyways, if you like historical romance and womans fiction, then I definitely recommend this book.
I loved the herione, Ellie. She was so strong, patient, and kind. She is what kept me reading. The hero Frederick left a little to be desired. I swear that dude bitched for almost the entire book. I have no idea how Ellie didn't just smack him.
Anyways, if you like historical romance and womans fiction, then I definitely recommend this book.
February 18, 2022
An enjoyable book. Good characters (though there wasn't a whole lot about the guy that endeared him to me).
I would have given it 4-stars, but the author got overly descriptive with some intimate scenes, to the point that I had to skip over several pages. Due to that, I won't be reading any more books from her.
I would have given it 4-stars, but the author got overly descriptive with some intimate scenes, to the point that I had to skip over several pages. Due to that, I won't be reading any more books from her.
June 7, 2025
2.5 rounded down.
It felt… long. It’s a slow burn, but technically only from his side. She’s in love with him from the beginning. There’s a lot of unnecessary suffering (really, did the brother have to die? wasn’t it enough with the PTSD?It doesn’t come up again until the last 15%) and why Rick’s mom (Teresa) chose Elsbeth to marry her son is not believable. These two women don’t know each other, they were never even introduced to each other, so it made no sense that his mother knew with absolute certainty Ellie would be the right choice. Of course she is, the author made it that way, but the mom wouldn’t have known that. Couldn’t have known that just from seeing her smile once.
There’s a lot of explaining the same feelings over and over, and of telling the reader exactly how people feel in addition to showing it, as if the author didn’t trust the reader to understand the subtext.
The “mystery” doesn’t play any role until the last 15% of the book, and because of that, it felt rushed. Not to mention it’s pretty obvious who is the culprit once you realise there’s only one character that could be the murderer. And the fact that they’re the protagonist of the next book, I don’t want to read that one. I’m sorry, but there’s no redemption from murder.
It took me so long to finish, mostly because I didn’t particularly care about the characters, and also nothing happened for the longest time, except Ellie being the family therapist and fixing everyone. Because, apparently, trauma makes you a good psychologist. And that puts a lot of pressure on Ellie, which seemed unfair on Teresa’s part.
Finally, there are no TW in the book, and there's very explicit triggering content. Graphic: Suicidal thoughts, Grief, Suicide attempt (side character tries to get MMC to kill her), Murder (and attempted murder), Pregnancy, Fire and Fire injury (fMC), Alcohol (MMC gets drunk), War (mentions of it in MMC's past), Injury/Injury detail.
Moderate: Death, Gore (several mentions of war and the kind of wounds cannons can inflict, kinda detailed but brief), Panic attacks/disorders (brief mention of bad dreams for both MCs, more detailed mention of night terrors from side character due to trauma), Forced institutionalization (antagonist and fMC for next book is forced into a mental institution).
Minor: Mental illness (antagonist is severely depressed, PTSD is implied for MMC).
It felt… long. It’s a slow burn, but technically only from his side. She’s in love with him from the beginning. There’s a lot of unnecessary suffering (really, did the brother have to die? wasn’t it enough with the PTSD?It doesn’t come up again until the last 15%) and why Rick’s mom (Teresa) chose Elsbeth to marry her son is not believable. These two women don’t know each other, they were never even introduced to each other, so it made no sense that his mother knew with absolute certainty Ellie would be the right choice. Of course she is, the author made it that way, but the mom wouldn’t have known that. Couldn’t have known that just from seeing her smile once.
There’s a lot of explaining the same feelings over and over, and of telling the reader exactly how people feel in addition to showing it, as if the author didn’t trust the reader to understand the subtext.
The “mystery” doesn’t play any role until the last 15% of the book, and because of that, it felt rushed. Not to mention it’s pretty obvious who is the culprit once you realise there’s only one character that could be the murderer. And the fact that they’re the protagonist of the next book, I don’t want to read that one. I’m sorry, but there’s no redemption from murder.
It took me so long to finish, mostly because I didn’t particularly care about the characters, and also nothing happened for the longest time, except Ellie being the family therapist and fixing everyone. Because, apparently, trauma makes you a good psychologist. And that puts a lot of pressure on Ellie, which seemed unfair on Teresa’s part.
Finally, there are no TW in the book, and there's very explicit triggering content. Graphic: Suicidal thoughts, Grief, Suicide attempt (side character tries to get MMC to kill her), Murder (and attempted murder), Pregnancy, Fire and Fire injury (fMC), Alcohol (MMC gets drunk), War (mentions of it in MMC's past), Injury/Injury detail.
Moderate: Death, Gore (several mentions of war and the kind of wounds cannons can inflict, kinda detailed but brief), Panic attacks/disorders (brief mention of bad dreams for both MCs, more detailed mention of night terrors from side character due to trauma), Forced institutionalization (antagonist and fMC for next book is forced into a mental institution).
Minor: Mental illness (antagonist is severely depressed, PTSD is implied for MMC).
April 13, 2025
3.5! It was essentially “The Earl Was Wrong” by Britt Belle but much cleaner 😆
January 11, 2023
Very boring. Kinda irritating.
TONS AND TONS OF TELLING but no showing. If I’m told one more time all about “the darkness” and “the pain” that overwhelms the hero, I think my eyes will never roll back into place.
Ugh, and the hero. I wish we don’t get his perspective. I am coming to really hate dual perspective. When it comes to romance, it often destroys chemistry, mystery, and tension. It certainly does in this book. Because we know exactly what he’s thinking, and it’s all about himself. Adding insult to injury, in this book, getting a peek into his thoughts also destroys his credibility. He is making the conscious decision to close his heart to all emotion, but that’s just not realistic; broken people aren’t that self aware. It’s cheesy to have his character articulate his emotions like this. I can’t stand the guy. Instead of being portrayed as a broken hero, his thoughts and actions make him seem like such a baby. He is a weak, whiny, fearful and callous character. Most of all, HE IS COMPLETELY SELF CENTERED. As the reader, I don’t like him in the least and couldn’t care less about him.
The heroine is alright, but it really bugs me that she shoulders the entire burden of trying to make their relationship bearable. He is so selfish that I don’t know how she likes him, much less how she loves or desires him. Consequently, I can’t relate with her at all.
THERE IS NO CHEMISTRY WHATSOEVER. Nothing more to say on that front.
I’ve touched on some of the issues with the writing, but one more thing nagged at me. When the characters told other characters about their dramatic past experiences that brought them so much pain, they use fanciful descriptions that make it sound like they are reading a novel about it. “The flames danced and licked up the walls as the smoke swirled all around,” or “the sounds of war drummed in my ears as the horses hooves pounded into battle.” (I’m not taking the time to find quotes, but this is similar to what it sounded like.) Please. No one talks like that, especially when verbally relating a traumatic personal experience.
I’m bored to tears and keep speeding up the narrator. I’m at 2.5 speed now and have 1.5 hours left. Sadly, I can’t take any more of this book. It’s kinda lame. DNF
Content-
No language, sex, or substance abuse content.
Narrator- not good. She made the hero sound like a pompous snob. Thankfully, on double speed it wasn’t nearly so irritating.
Cover- meh
TONS AND TONS OF TELLING but no showing. If I’m told one more time all about “the darkness” and “the pain” that overwhelms the hero, I think my eyes will never roll back into place.
Ugh, and the hero. I wish we don’t get his perspective. I am coming to really hate dual perspective. When it comes to romance, it often destroys chemistry, mystery, and tension. It certainly does in this book. Because we know exactly what he’s thinking, and it’s all about himself. Adding insult to injury, in this book, getting a peek into his thoughts also destroys his credibility. He is making the conscious decision to close his heart to all emotion, but that’s just not realistic; broken people aren’t that self aware. It’s cheesy to have his character articulate his emotions like this. I can’t stand the guy. Instead of being portrayed as a broken hero, his thoughts and actions make him seem like such a baby. He is a weak, whiny, fearful and callous character. Most of all, HE IS COMPLETELY SELF CENTERED. As the reader, I don’t like him in the least and couldn’t care less about him.
The heroine is alright, but it really bugs me that she shoulders the entire burden of trying to make their relationship bearable. He is so selfish that I don’t know how she likes him, much less how she loves or desires him. Consequently, I can’t relate with her at all.
THERE IS NO CHEMISTRY WHATSOEVER. Nothing more to say on that front.
I’ve touched on some of the issues with the writing, but one more thing nagged at me. When the characters told other characters about their dramatic past experiences that brought them so much pain, they use fanciful descriptions that make it sound like they are reading a novel about it. “The flames danced and licked up the walls as the smoke swirled all around,” or “the sounds of war drummed in my ears as the horses hooves pounded into battle.” (I’m not taking the time to find quotes, but this is similar to what it sounded like.) Please. No one talks like that, especially when verbally relating a traumatic personal experience.
I’m bored to tears and keep speeding up the narrator. I’m at 2.5 speed now and have 1.5 hours left. Sadly, I can’t take any more of this book. It’s kinda lame. DNF
Content-
No language, sex, or substance abuse content.
Narrator- not good. She made the hero sound like a pompous snob. Thankfully, on double speed it wasn’t nearly so irritating.
Cover- meh
September 3, 2018
It is not my usual read, it do like my heroes wounded but willing to find a way back to life.
This book was a very sad read, awesome but still sad.
Frederick comes home more than wounded, he is like an empty shell, guilty for his friend’s death and decided to mourn him by refusing to live and love.
Elsbeth had her life partly robbed because of an accident which left her scared. But instead of retreating and hiding, she decided to take what she can get, even if she has to lower her expectations.
“With her head held high, she had walked her path, knowing her limits but not allowing them to confine her.”
I do adored her, nothing seems to be able to crush her spirit, even her hurtful husband wounded her but she always regains her wits and fights back. She is no superhero, but her kind personality help to heal those around her.
“However, at some point, she had realised that a life of regret wasn’t a life worth living; and Ellie wanted to live.”
I very disliked her mother, how can she be so discriminative to the daughter who sacrificed so much to save her son?
“Despite the cruel hand fate had dealt her, her soul was pure, loving and innocent. The pain she suffered came from the people around her, not from within herself. Somehow she had walked through hell untouched, and a part of him desperately wanted to know how she had found the strength to do so.”
Frederick, I needed more time to love it, his need to destroy himself, his rejection of those who cared for him were all barriers to warm for him. He was suffering from a deep trauma, probably PTSD. Why it is near impossible to reach them, what ever you say, their logic can comprehend it but their brain rejects it. Ellie would have been an awesome psychologist, she experience hurt and pain, so she is one close to him able to reach his heart.
“Seeing equal determination to separate himself from everyone else around him in his eyes, Ellie only hoped that she would have the strength to stand her ground.”
A wonderful story of two wounded persons whose life gave a second chance.
“Holding on to him, Ellie revelled in the love that flowed through her; they had finally come full circle.”
This book was a very sad read, awesome but still sad.
Frederick comes home more than wounded, he is like an empty shell, guilty for his friend’s death and decided to mourn him by refusing to live and love.
Elsbeth had her life partly robbed because of an accident which left her scared. But instead of retreating and hiding, she decided to take what she can get, even if she has to lower her expectations.
“With her head held high, she had walked her path, knowing her limits but not allowing them to confine her.”
I do adored her, nothing seems to be able to crush her spirit, even her hurtful husband wounded her but she always regains her wits and fights back. She is no superhero, but her kind personality help to heal those around her.
“However, at some point, she had realised that a life of regret wasn’t a life worth living; and Ellie wanted to live.”
I very disliked her mother, how can she be so discriminative to the daughter who sacrificed so much to save her son?
“Despite the cruel hand fate had dealt her, her soul was pure, loving and innocent. The pain she suffered came from the people around her, not from within herself. Somehow she had walked through hell untouched, and a part of him desperately wanted to know how she had found the strength to do so.”
Frederick, I needed more time to love it, his need to destroy himself, his rejection of those who cared for him were all barriers to warm for him. He was suffering from a deep trauma, probably PTSD. Why it is near impossible to reach them, what ever you say, their logic can comprehend it but their brain rejects it. Ellie would have been an awesome psychologist, she experience hurt and pain, so she is one close to him able to reach his heart.
“Seeing equal determination to separate himself from everyone else around him in his eyes, Ellie only hoped that she would have the strength to stand her ground.”
A wonderful story of two wounded persons whose life gave a second chance.
“Holding on to him, Ellie revelled in the love that flowed through her; they had finally come full circle.”
February 10, 2018
A wonderful and a very passionate book!
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series...
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series...
March 8, 2024
This started off promising enough.
Ultimately I have several issues with the book and how its connected to the rest of this series.
As for the book itself, its very repetitive. Basically every section from Frederick's POV is him having the same handful of thoughts.
Literally his entire family's emotional well being becomes Ellie's problem; she's expected to "fix" all of them essentially. While not an unusual storyline for these sorts of books, it got very grating here.
Then there's my issues with it and how it relates to the series.
This was the first book I've read by the author and it will be the last.
Ultimately I have several issues with the book and how its connected to the rest of this series.
As for the book itself, its very repetitive. Basically every section from Frederick's POV is him having the same handful of thoughts.
Literally his entire family's emotional well being becomes Ellie's problem; she's expected to "fix" all of them essentially. While not an unusual storyline for these sorts of books, it got very grating here.
Then there's my issues with it and how it relates to the series.
This was the first book I've read by the author and it will be the last.
January 31, 2018
Too much drama (that failed to draw the proper feelings) and despite the so~called "emotionally charged" atmosphere of this series, the only feeling I have is impatience for it to end. Despite all the psychobabble there is not much empathy for me re~ the sensitive subject of PTSD for Frederick ~ the author failed to induce pathos and deeper sympathy for what surviving soldiers are truly undergoing. The intense conflict that Frederick felt in trying to regain his pre~war carefree days as a spare sans any responsibilities vis~a~vis the continuing reality (in his own mind) of the carnage he constantly participated in plus his guilt (though undeserved) in surviving while his friend Kenneth died, etc... were not presented in an empathic way (for me). This work is also too obviously American, that I feel I must protest, men in those days and even now are extremely reluctant to talk about their feelings, specially the English aristocracy. Where do you think the "stiff upper lip" phrase came from? And the setting is very much supposed to be on the other side of the pond, in England not in the bloody colonies. Just feeling the warped setting and reacting to it.
May 6, 2020
I was so happy with the prospective of reading a book about a scarred heroine. However, I was unable to read more than 30% of the book. There are some flaws I must relate.
First: this may not be a problem for many readers, but the lack of sexual tension always makes me feel like the characters are not human somehow. And the lack of details on their wedding night was a big turn off for me. Plus, the hero was detached and the heroine simply accepted that, not just for that night but for many to come. Question: how did she not bled? She must be very dry, but she does not complain of pain. It makes no sense to me.
Second: the heroine is too meak and does not voice her feelings well. She says she wants to reach the hero but does nothing to achieve that besides accept meakly everything the hero does. I started to get angry. I like shy heroines, but there is a limit between shy and stupid.
Actually I only have these complains. But they were enough to make me give this book just one star, something I never did before. 😔
(Sorry for possible errors in my gramar, english is not my mother language)
First: this may not be a problem for many readers, but the lack of sexual tension always makes me feel like the characters are not human somehow. And the lack of details on their wedding night was a big turn off for me. Plus, the hero was detached and the heroine simply accepted that, not just for that night but for many to come. Question: how did she not bled? She must be very dry, but she does not complain of pain. It makes no sense to me.
Second: the heroine is too meak and does not voice her feelings well. She says she wants to reach the hero but does nothing to achieve that besides accept meakly everything the hero does. I started to get angry. I like shy heroines, but there is a limit between shy and stupid.
Actually I only have these complains. But they were enough to make me give this book just one star, something I never did before. 😔
(Sorry for possible errors in my gramar, english is not my mother language)
October 25, 2018
Despised & Desired is a very emotional read. Ellie saved her brother from a fire but has scars as a reminder. Still trying to live a joyful life, she attends a ball where she sees Fredrick who has returned from the war. Fredrick has his own scars to overcome, but they are more of the mind. Parts of the story were a little depressing and repetitive with several scenes dealing with the fire and the war. Ellie is the stronger of the two characters. If not for her fortitude, all would have been lost. I loved the ending. It was not the usual happy ending. It was a nice surprise.
February 11, 2017
I just love seeing the struggles that both main characters go through and how they overcome everything together and help bring each other out of the dark!!! Beautiful story! ❤
October 8, 2021
I have to say, I'm liking each novel more as the series progresses! This novel is definitely my favourite so far.
Let me start with the characters. Ellie. How to describe her other than with WOW? I honestly loved her so much. Her determination and joy were contagious through the pages and I found myself admiring her immensely. The way that she managed to stay so hopeful and brave was inspirational and challenged my own perception of life. She wasn't naive or ignorant, but rather was such a mature character. I loved how understanding and patient she was, and her tenacious spirit made her even more loveable. Instead of being bitter, her gentleness and ferocity in spirit helped heal the hearts of the whole family.
"Now more than ever, Ellie knew that she deserved her happily-ever-after, and by God, she would get it."
I loved Frederick as well. As broken and hurting as he was, I couldn't help but sympathise with him. The way that Ellie was able to help him heal was just so beautiful to read!
The plot was great, and although it focused mainly on their relationship, I liked the added twists along the way.
Overall, a brilliant addition to the series!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Let me start with the characters. Ellie. How to describe her other than with WOW? I honestly loved her so much. Her determination and joy were contagious through the pages and I found myself admiring her immensely. The way that she managed to stay so hopeful and brave was inspirational and challenged my own perception of life. She wasn't naive or ignorant, but rather was such a mature character. I loved how understanding and patient she was, and her tenacious spirit made her even more loveable. Instead of being bitter, her gentleness and ferocity in spirit helped heal the hearts of the whole family.
"Now more than ever, Ellie knew that she deserved her happily-ever-after, and by God, she would get it."
I loved Frederick as well. As broken and hurting as he was, I couldn't help but sympathise with him. The way that Ellie was able to help him heal was just so beautiful to read!
The plot was great, and although it focused mainly on their relationship, I liked the added twists along the way.
Overall, a brilliant addition to the series!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 7, 2017
loved it ....This is the third book by Bree Wolf I have read and bree didnt disappoint ....well written ,,,, Ellie "s character so strong
i fell in love with her myself ....but Frederick came out as a weak & confused soul...the concept of d story is good wherein d author
gives a msg dat watever happens in life v ve to move ahead ...ve a zeal of life ...live it & be happy....
Frederick (Rick) and Elsbeth(Ellie's) story was amazing yet so sad....The story had a bit of suspense, murder, after affects of war, betrayal, love, and a happy endings...i normally shy away from sad or dark stories but the author bree kept up the balance though at times Frederick"s character analysis was frustrating....The story was well developed, written, and the characters well define. a worthable read ...
I got a free copy of dis book in exchange for a honest review..thank u again for dis book
i fell in love with her myself ....but Frederick came out as a weak & confused soul...the concept of d story is good wherein d author
gives a msg dat watever happens in life v ve to move ahead ...ve a zeal of life ...live it & be happy....
Frederick (Rick) and Elsbeth(Ellie's) story was amazing yet so sad....The story had a bit of suspense, murder, after affects of war, betrayal, love, and a happy endings...i normally shy away from sad or dark stories but the author bree kept up the balance though at times Frederick"s character analysis was frustrating....The story was well developed, written, and the characters well define. a worthable read ...
I got a free copy of dis book in exchange for a honest review..thank u again for dis book
October 27, 2019
Well written.
Enjoyed the plot (a hero who returns from war deeply troubled and with suicidal thoughts meets a woman with a kind heart and a smile that brightens the life of those she meets, a woman who is stronger than she looks). Nothing entirely new but still quite interesting.
Attention, though, there is one death in there that really got to me... Thought that was a bit unusual for some regency / historical romance novels.
MCs?
Thought the hero was too cold. Didn't like that he would seek the heroine out in bed only to then ignore her. Didn't enjoy that he didn't make her first time enjoyable... Wasn't so fond of him in the beginning but grew to like him towards the ending.
The heroine was pretty cool. She kept a lot in at first, wouldn't call the hero out. But I still thought she had been through a lot and I liked her strength.
Enjoyed the plot (a hero who returns from war deeply troubled and with suicidal thoughts meets a woman with a kind heart and a smile that brightens the life of those she meets, a woman who is stronger than she looks). Nothing entirely new but still quite interesting.
Attention, though, there is one death in there that really got to me... Thought that was a bit unusual for some regency / historical romance novels.
MCs?
Thought the hero was too cold. Didn't like that he would seek the heroine out in bed only to then ignore her. Didn't enjoy that he didn't make her first time enjoyable... Wasn't so fond of him in the beginning but grew to like him towards the ending.
The heroine was pretty cool. She kept a lot in at first, wouldn't call the hero out. But I still thought she had been through a lot and I liked her strength.
May 14, 2024
A gender-reversed sequel of Jane Eyre after Jane comes back and Rochester seduces her while they’re married
I love all of Bree Wolf’s books - they are my go-to comfort reads, but this one was swoony over and above.
Ellie and Frederick meet in their childhood. Years later, his soul is torn after the war while she bears the scars of a fire and an unlikely match is made. Ellie and her scars reminded me of Rochester while Frederick’s soul-searchings reminded me of Jane Eyre, actually. I enjoyed watching Ellie unthaw her husband by rather un-Regency means (or then saucy Regency) and I loved how Rick was slow on the uptake. Thank goodness for brooks and birthmarks is all I’m saying. Another enjoyable emotional rollercoaster from the Queen of Regency romances - loved it!
Recommended for lovers of clean and sweet Regency romances, strong heroines and Darcyesque torn heroes.
I love all of Bree Wolf’s books - they are my go-to comfort reads, but this one was swoony over and above.
Ellie and Frederick meet in their childhood. Years later, his soul is torn after the war while she bears the scars of a fire and an unlikely match is made. Ellie and her scars reminded me of Rochester while Frederick’s soul-searchings reminded me of Jane Eyre, actually. I enjoyed watching Ellie unthaw her husband by rather un-Regency means (or then saucy Regency) and I loved how Rick was slow on the uptake. Thank goodness for brooks and birthmarks is all I’m saying. Another enjoyable emotional rollercoaster from the Queen of Regency romances - loved it!
Recommended for lovers of clean and sweet Regency romances, strong heroines and Darcyesque torn heroes.
April 13, 2017
Incredible
This book is a little sad. He has returned from war broken. His family wants to support him but he is so broken he does not care. She is scarred and feels that now she will be a spinster. The characters are so real in their emotions and the situations they find themselves in. The plot is full bodied and is lush from the descriptions of the surroundings and the parts of the story I did not tell you about. I really loved the story and very highly recommend it.
This book is a little sad. He has returned from war broken. His family wants to support him but he is so broken he does not care. She is scarred and feels that now she will be a spinster. The characters are so real in their emotions and the situations they find themselves in. The plot is full bodied and is lush from the descriptions of the surroundings and the parts of the story I did not tell you about. I really loved the story and very highly recommend it.
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