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Playful Brides #8
The Right Kind of Rogue
Can two star-crossed lovers come together―until death do they part?
Viscount Hart Highgate has decided to put his rakish ways behind him and finally get married. He may adore a good brandy or a high-speed carriage race, but he takes his duties as heir to the earldom seriously. Now all he has to do is find the right kind of woman to be his bride―ideally, one who’s also well-connected and well-funded. . .
Meg Timmons has loved Hart, the brother of her best friend, ever since she was an awkward, blushing schoolgirl. If only she had a large dowry―or anything to her name at all. Instead, she’s from a family that’s been locked in a bitter feud with Hart’s for years. And now she’s approaching her third London season, Meg’s chances with him are slim to none. Unless a surprise encounter on a deep, dark night could be enough to spark a rebellious romance. . .for all time?
Viscount Hart Highgate has decided to put his rakish ways behind him and finally get married. He may adore a good brandy or a high-speed carriage race, but he takes his duties as heir to the earldom seriously. Now all he has to do is find the right kind of woman to be his bride―ideally, one who’s also well-connected and well-funded. . .
Meg Timmons has loved Hart, the brother of her best friend, ever since she was an awkward, blushing schoolgirl. If only she had a large dowry―or anything to her name at all. Instead, she’s from a family that’s been locked in a bitter feud with Hart’s for years. And now she’s approaching her third London season, Meg’s chances with him are slim to none. Unless a surprise encounter on a deep, dark night could be enough to spark a rebellious romance. . .for all time?
307 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 31, 2017
78 people are currently reading
1292 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Bowman
55 books1,569 followersValerie Bowman is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance.
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
Valerie’s debut novel was published in 2012. Since then, her books have received starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and Kirkus. She’s been an RT Reviewers’ Choice nominee for Best First Historical Romance and Best Historical Romance Love and Laughter. Two of her books have been nominated for the Kirkus Prize for fiction.
Valerie grew up in Illinois with six sisters (she’s number seven) and a huge supply of romance novels. After a cold and snowy stint earning a degree in English Language and Literature with a minor in history at Smith College, she moved to Florida the first chance she got. Valerie now lives in Jacksonville with her family including her rascally dogs. When she’s not writing, she keeps busy reading, traveling, or vacillating between watching crazy reality TV and PBS.
Visit Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and sign-up for her newsletter at: https://valeriebowmanbooks.com/newsle...
Be sure to follow Valerie Bookbub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/valer...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
September 30, 2017
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
With her family riddled with debt and on her third season, Meg knows it's her last chance to find a husband. When she hears that her long time crush has decided to finally search for a wife, she knows it's time to make her move.
With Hart's sister and friends all getting leg shackled, he knows it's time to do the same. His wife must be beautiful, from a good family, and rich. This makes his sudden attraction to his little sister’s best-friend highly inconvenient.
With family drama, debts, and schemes, Hart and Meg will have quite the journey to get to their happily ever after.
With a gorgeous cover (and a cover dress that appears in the story) The Right Kind of Rogue is the eighth installment in the Playful Brides series. I started off here and had no problems, except for the occasional interest in obvious previous characters that filtered through and curious about their personal stories.
Sarah's older brother, Hart, the heir to the earldom, a viscount in his own right, was clever, handsome, witty, and extremely eligible. He was also entirely off limits to Meg.
She had loved him for years.
Our heroine Meg is the wallflower by circumstance who pines for her best-friend's older brother that never fails to capture my attention. She has no dowry because her father gambled it all away and a mother who unloads her disappoint in life onto her. Hart stuck up for her against her mother when they were younger and that cemented her love of him. I understood the hero worship from this moment but it ended up being the only instance provided for Meg and me as a reader to hold onto. Throughout the story Hart remains a man who drinks fairly heavily and doesn't do a whole heck of a lot to demonstrate any maturity; he honestly seemed a bit vacuous to me.
Most of the story is Meg, with help from a friend named Lucy, trying to set-up schemes to get Hart to notice her enough to marry her and later to sleep with her. Surprisingly, with this desire, they don’t spend a lot of time together in the first half which didn't help me understand what Meg saw in this adult version of Hart. Even towards the end when Hart has a chance to shine and go after Meg, he instead stays home and drinks. It made their romance/relationship seem very childish from Meg's stand point and very weak from Harts'.
This was written in a very easy reading style and if you've read the rest in the series, you'd probably enjoy reentering this world with previous characters making appearances. The friend Lucy helping Meg out was a bit annoying at times with her rude obtuse "My way is always right" but the emphasis on female relationships was enjoyable.
With a lack of mature emotional connection and solid reasoning for why Meg and Hart were in love and Hart not stepping up to the plate enough, I ultimately ended up be disappointed in the romance.
With her family riddled with debt and on her third season, Meg knows it's her last chance to find a husband. When she hears that her long time crush has decided to finally search for a wife, she knows it's time to make her move.
With Hart's sister and friends all getting leg shackled, he knows it's time to do the same. His wife must be beautiful, from a good family, and rich. This makes his sudden attraction to his little sister’s best-friend highly inconvenient.
With family drama, debts, and schemes, Hart and Meg will have quite the journey to get to their happily ever after.
With a gorgeous cover (and a cover dress that appears in the story) The Right Kind of Rogue is the eighth installment in the Playful Brides series. I started off here and had no problems, except for the occasional interest in obvious previous characters that filtered through and curious about their personal stories.
Sarah's older brother, Hart, the heir to the earldom, a viscount in his own right, was clever, handsome, witty, and extremely eligible. He was also entirely off limits to Meg.
She had loved him for years.
Our heroine Meg is the wallflower by circumstance who pines for her best-friend's older brother that never fails to capture my attention. She has no dowry because her father gambled it all away and a mother who unloads her disappoint in life onto her. Hart stuck up for her against her mother when they were younger and that cemented her love of him. I understood the hero worship from this moment but it ended up being the only instance provided for Meg and me as a reader to hold onto. Throughout the story Hart remains a man who drinks fairly heavily and doesn't do a whole heck of a lot to demonstrate any maturity; he honestly seemed a bit vacuous to me.
Most of the story is Meg, with help from a friend named Lucy, trying to set-up schemes to get Hart to notice her enough to marry her and later to sleep with her. Surprisingly, with this desire, they don’t spend a lot of time together in the first half which didn't help me understand what Meg saw in this adult version of Hart. Even towards the end when Hart has a chance to shine and go after Meg, he instead stays home and drinks. It made their romance/relationship seem very childish from Meg's stand point and very weak from Harts'.
This was written in a very easy reading style and if you've read the rest in the series, you'd probably enjoy reentering this world with previous characters making appearances. The friend Lucy helping Meg out was a bit annoying at times with her rude obtuse "My way is always right" but the emphasis on female relationships was enjoyable.
With a lack of mature emotional connection and solid reasoning for why Meg and Hart were in love and Hart not stepping up to the plate enough, I ultimately ended up be disappointed in the romance.
October 22, 2017
I found nothing Right in this kind of Rogue
My mother always told me that hate was not a nice word, so, I've created an *I disliked immensely* shelf. Unfortunately The Right Kind of Rogue was not a winner for me. Seriously, I haven't hated a hero this much in a very long time. And, the bloody heroine, she's a silly twit. And, her "friends", well I've met nicer enemies.
97% is way too late in the game to be showing (well, trying to show) yourself in a better light. The way you did it, by humiliating the love of your life, well, let's say that I'm not convinced you have a better light.
Two stars (instead of one) because it was well written and I did manage to finish it, I was just scowling the whole way through with a scoff at the HEA.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
My mother always told me that hate was not a nice word, so, I've created an *I disliked immensely* shelf. Unfortunately The Right Kind of Rogue was not a winner for me. Seriously, I haven't hated a hero this much in a very long time. And, the bloody heroine, she's a silly twit. And, her "friends", well I've met nicer enemies.
97% is way too late in the game to be showing (well, trying to show) yourself in a better light. The way you did it, by humiliating the love of your life, well, let's say that I'm not convinced you have a better light.
Two stars (instead of one) because it was well written and I did manage to finish it, I was just scowling the whole way through with a scoff at the HEA.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
November 2, 2017
This story was fast-paced with short chapters, which made it an easy read. I think for many it would be a fun, diverting read. My issues with it stem from the superficial characters and the cavalier attitude toward drinking problems. Also, the makeover-a-wallflower-to-get-the-hero-to-notice-the-heroine trope is one I need to be well-convinced of the merits of the plot before I buy-in.
Honestly, the way most of the characters dealt with their problems through over indulgence of drink dropped this a star. It was a major turn off for me. Both fathers of the hero and heroine are drunks. The heroine's mother is a drunk and the hero's valet is a drunk. Then there is the hero, who is turns to the bottle at every difficulty. Even the heroine has a moment of over indulgence. This is all treated as acceptable behavior. There's a moment toward the end where the hero think maybe he drinks too much and decides to restrain his inclinations. It was much too little too late for me.
The character development was average, and I found most of the secondary characters annoying. All in all, this just wasn't a very satisfying read.
*I received an ARC for this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, the way most of the characters dealt with their problems through over indulgence of drink dropped this a star. It was a major turn off for me. Both fathers of the hero and heroine are drunks. The heroine's mother is a drunk and the hero's valet is a drunk. Then there is the hero, who is turns to the bottle at every difficulty. Even the heroine has a moment of over indulgence. This is all treated as acceptable behavior. There's a moment toward the end where the hero think maybe he drinks too much and decides to restrain his inclinations. It was much too little too late for me.
The character development was average, and I found most of the secondary characters annoying. All in all, this just wasn't a very satisfying read.
*I received an ARC for this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2017
The Right Kind of Rogue was an excellent historical romance with a scheming matchmaker, love interests on opposite sides of feuding families and a wallflower who really comes into her own.
Meg Timmons has been in love with her best friend’s brother, Hart Highgate, since she was sixteen years old. Now that Hart has decided it’s time he marry, Meg knows this may be her last chance. However, her quest for love is hindered by the fact she has no dowry and her and Hart’s families have been feuding for years. Hart had always thought of Meg as his little sister’s best friend, but after a surprise encounter late at night, Hart hasn’t been able to get Meg out of his head. Soon, Meg and Hart are caught up in the schemes of a matchmaker and will have to decide what they’re willing to do for the chance at the love of a lifetime.
The Right Kind of Rogue is the eighth book in the Playful Brides series and it’s the first one I’ve read. There are a lot of scenes with characters I’ve since learned were the main couples in the rest of the books. However, I do believe this book stands well on its own and you could jump right into this one without having read the others. I never felt lost and other than my lack of knowledge on who was who, I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything.
Meg is an incredibly kind and caring person and would willingly help a stranger without a second thought. She’s very loyal to those she cares about, even if they’re undeserving of that loyalty. After spending the last few seasons as a wallflower, Meg has learned how to be alone and amuse herself. That’s not to say she doesn’t feel lonely, she does, but she does well on her own. Despite the fact her relationship with her family is strained, she does her best to please them and not cause issues.
Hart’s character works well as the classic rogue hero often seen in historical romances, which is by far one of my favorite types of hero. He very easily charms women and has a devil may care attitude regarding life. He cares deeply for his younger sister Sarah and I loved their relationship. The one thing I disliked about his character was that he had a tendency to drink too much. Instead of trying to fix his problems, his first instinct was to reach for a bottle.
At first I didn’t understand Meg’s crush on Hart, but once they had a few scenes together I didn’t care as I loved their chemistry. They’re very playful with each other and there’s some great banter, which I love. Their physical scenes were great and I definitely enjoyed them. There was the inevitable drama towards the end, but I liked how the author resolved everything.
Overall, The Right Kind of Rogue was a fun, quick read and definitely has me interested in checking out the rest of the series soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Meg Timmons has been in love with her best friend’s brother, Hart Highgate, since she was sixteen years old. Now that Hart has decided it’s time he marry, Meg knows this may be her last chance. However, her quest for love is hindered by the fact she has no dowry and her and Hart’s families have been feuding for years. Hart had always thought of Meg as his little sister’s best friend, but after a surprise encounter late at night, Hart hasn’t been able to get Meg out of his head. Soon, Meg and Hart are caught up in the schemes of a matchmaker and will have to decide what they’re willing to do for the chance at the love of a lifetime.
The Right Kind of Rogue is the eighth book in the Playful Brides series and it’s the first one I’ve read. There are a lot of scenes with characters I’ve since learned were the main couples in the rest of the books. However, I do believe this book stands well on its own and you could jump right into this one without having read the others. I never felt lost and other than my lack of knowledge on who was who, I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything.
Meg is an incredibly kind and caring person and would willingly help a stranger without a second thought. She’s very loyal to those she cares about, even if they’re undeserving of that loyalty. After spending the last few seasons as a wallflower, Meg has learned how to be alone and amuse herself. That’s not to say she doesn’t feel lonely, she does, but she does well on her own. Despite the fact her relationship with her family is strained, she does her best to please them and not cause issues.
Hart’s character works well as the classic rogue hero often seen in historical romances, which is by far one of my favorite types of hero. He very easily charms women and has a devil may care attitude regarding life. He cares deeply for his younger sister Sarah and I loved their relationship. The one thing I disliked about his character was that he had a tendency to drink too much. Instead of trying to fix his problems, his first instinct was to reach for a bottle.
At first I didn’t understand Meg’s crush on Hart, but once they had a few scenes together I didn’t care as I loved their chemistry. They’re very playful with each other and there’s some great banter, which I love. Their physical scenes were great and I definitely enjoyed them. There was the inevitable drama towards the end, but I liked how the author resolved everything.
Overall, The Right Kind of Rogue was a fun, quick read and definitely has me interested in checking out the rest of the series soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
October 5, 2017
2.75 stars (I originally had this down as 2 stars, but I usually reserve 2 stars for the books I didn't really like. This was better than that but I very much doubt I'd ever read it again).
I wanted to like this more, but unfortunately, I never quite understood why Meg loved Hart so much. I could understand why she was infatuated with him, but other than that, I didn't get it. Hart was a pretty passive hero so I never connected with him. He waited for other people to tell him what to do before he did anything. Even at the end, it's other people who encourage him to seek out Meg and talk to her before he finally does, even though he wants to. So he was a bit...meh.
My main problem, however, was with Lucy. She meddles into things that have nothing to do with her, even when she's told to back off. Not once is she sorry for what she's done, regardless of how much she hurts other people. So when everything works out for the best, she gets to sit back with a smug smile and let everyone know SHE'S responsible for making that happen. I wanted someone to put her in her place, but no one really ever does. There's a half-hearted effort by Meg, but of course, they all decide that more game playing is the way to win Hart's love.
I really felt for Meg and I wanted there to be a huge "Oh shit!" moment from the hero when he realises she didn't lie to him, but...she loves him too much so once again, puts her heart on the line for it to be stomped on. Luckily he remembers a conversation he had with his brother-in-law about fighting for his marriage, because I doubt he would've come up with that thought on his own.
Needless to say, others might enjoy this. It's certainly a well-written book and I definitely held my interest as I read it all in one go. I just wish Meg realised she deserved more and that Hart actually stepped up sooner. But then I guess we wouldn't have a story then.
*Netgalley ARC*
I wanted to like this more, but unfortunately, I never quite understood why Meg loved Hart so much. I could understand why she was infatuated with him, but other than that, I didn't get it. Hart was a pretty passive hero so I never connected with him. He waited for other people to tell him what to do before he did anything. Even at the end, it's other people who encourage him to seek out Meg and talk to her before he finally does, even though he wants to. So he was a bit...meh.
My main problem, however, was with Lucy. She meddles into things that have nothing to do with her, even when she's told to back off. Not once is she sorry for what she's done, regardless of how much she hurts other people. So when everything works out for the best, she gets to sit back with a smug smile and let everyone know SHE'S responsible for making that happen. I wanted someone to put her in her place, but no one really ever does. There's a half-hearted effort by Meg, but of course, they all decide that more game playing is the way to win Hart's love.
I really felt for Meg and I wanted there to be a huge "Oh shit!" moment from the hero when he realises she didn't lie to him, but...she loves him too much so once again, puts her heart on the line for it to be stomped on. Luckily he remembers a conversation he had with his brother-in-law about fighting for his marriage, because I doubt he would've come up with that thought on his own.
Needless to say, others might enjoy this. It's certainly a well-written book and I definitely held my interest as I read it all in one go. I just wish Meg realised she deserved more and that Hart actually stepped up sooner. But then I guess we wouldn't have a story then.
*Netgalley ARC*
July 29, 2021
✨Huzzah for hiccups✨
This one was a hell of a ride. I thought I was going to get a slightly angsty but overall light best-friend’s-brother read. Instead, I got a book filled with schemes and plots and questionable characters.
This is a little more than a three star read because I was hooked by the end and needed to see how it all played out. I do wonder why the whole family feud was such a secret like all of those parents are terrible people and it’s not hard to suss that out. I also really liked the hiccup scene and Hart’s quick thinking. I did kinda balk at their relationship because he really did only notice her when she had nice things. I know they kissed before but I dunno he didn’t care enough to even ~deign~ marrying her because she was so lowly. The whole dowry thing was also odd. Like the father really doesn’t have a say does he? He’s not going to disown his heir and they’re rich enough. I guess I just really wanted the love to feel more natural and deep-seated.
I found Hart’s anger pretty righteous and I was pumping my fist right along with him at times. Lucy was seriously misguided and made me very mad. I really didn’t appreciate that whole plot line. I suppose I didn’t mind the whole marriage-in-crisis because it was fun and interesting but I still didn’t like the intentional trap. I think Meg was more guilty than the characters finally believed. However, when we saw Hart with M.T. I saw red. Men really suck don’t they.
It ended well though and I loved the grand-gesture moment!! I always want scenes of that scale and truths of that volume to happen and they rarely do. Giant “fuck yous” like that to one’s enemies make me feel all warm and fluffy inside. Little red hearts surround my smiling face as I type.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
This one was a hell of a ride. I thought I was going to get a slightly angsty but overall light best-friend’s-brother read. Instead, I got a book filled with schemes and plots and questionable characters.
This is a little more than a three star read because I was hooked by the end and needed to see how it all played out. I do wonder why the whole family feud was such a secret like all of those parents are terrible people and it’s not hard to suss that out. I also really liked the hiccup scene and Hart’s quick thinking. I did kinda balk at their relationship because he really did only notice her when she had nice things. I know they kissed before but I dunno he didn’t care enough to even ~deign~ marrying her because she was so lowly. The whole dowry thing was also odd. Like the father really doesn’t have a say does he? He’s not going to disown his heir and they’re rich enough. I guess I just really wanted the love to feel more natural and deep-seated.
I found Hart’s anger pretty righteous and I was pumping my fist right along with him at times. Lucy was seriously misguided and made me very mad. I really didn’t appreciate that whole plot line. I suppose I didn’t mind the whole marriage-in-crisis because it was fun and interesting but I still didn’t like the intentional trap. I think Meg was more guilty than the characters finally believed. However, when we saw Hart with M.T. I saw red. Men really suck don’t they.
It ended well though and I loved the grand-gesture moment!! I always want scenes of that scale and truths of that volume to happen and they rarely do. Giant “fuck yous” like that to one’s enemies make me feel all warm and fluffy inside. Little red hearts surround my smiling face as I type.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
October 27, 2017
I received an ARC of this novel courtesy of Goodreads (giveaway) and the publisher.
This is the first book I've ever read by Ms. Bowman, and it will be, quite emphatically, my last. I made it about 1/4 of the way through before the "are you kidding me?!"s became vocal. I would've DNFed this book if not for the fact that I received it for review.
The summary sounded like 1000% my catnip, but the book was a complete disappointment - bad, but not so bad it's good, or even funny. Allow me to explain:
Things I liked about this novel:
*Though it is the 8th in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I had no trouble following the plot or the scads of characters, who were introduced in pairings I can only assume came from the previous books.
*Side character Lucy Hunt was a riot, until she wasn't. She was the only character with any sort of discernible personality, proving that this author can write interesting characters if she puts her mind to it. Lucy was totally OTT just like the other characters, but at least she was interesting.
Things I did not like about this novel:
*There is nothing even approaching historical accuracy in this book. I couldn't even call this a wallpaper historical - the only signpost that we have that this book is supposed to take place in the Regency period is the pretty, pretty dresses. Seriously. The characters don't address each other correctly, and certainly don't behave in a manner befitting their station. For example: the heroine (daughter of a baron) and the hero (a viscount heir to an earl) are guests at a duchess's dinner party when said hero splashes soup on his cravat. The heroine (daughter of a baron) insists on going to find silver polish in a servant's closet herself, dismissing the servants waiting at the ready, and then when she (inevitably) gets locked in said closet, the duchess sends the hero after her. I mean - come on. By all means allow your characters to be unconventional but let's not break the suspension of disbelief altogether in service to the silly plot.
*The plot is not only silly, but it is far too predictable, and really more suited to contemporary YA. This author has the sort of flair for foreshadowing akin to a brick: it's really heavy and really obvious. Every tired plot element that you can imagine of the girl-in-love-with-BFF's-older-brother trope is trotted out, right down to the girls gossiping across the hall from the boy as they stare longingly in his direction.
*The characters have no emotional depth or internal consistency at all - they are the very definition of plot-driven, reacting however is dictated by their surroundings. The hero's alcoholism isn't touched on until the very end of the story; the heroine is supposedly a timid little wallflower; both are at turns submissive and assertive. How exactly is the hero a rogue? Ooh, he has a mistress! Whom he never sleeps with! He hangs out at his club and buys horses and boxes, presumably at Gentleman Jackson's. For a supposedly fully grown adult man, he certainly allows his father to run his life. The heroine is not much better - at turns stubborn to the point of stupidity, then soft-hearted, then insanely jealous. Her parents are so OTT evil that you can practically see them twirling mustaches at stage right. The only character with any sort of personality is Lucy Hunt, the duchess, but even she is too much. She runs roughshod not only over the hero, but the heroine she's supposedly "helping." The collective have the emotional maturity of a group of 12-year-olds (though to be honest, that's probably an insult to 12-year-olds everywhere). They run around being stupid and jealous and oblivious to even the most obvious of setups (like said servant's closet above - neither of them could deduce that the meddling duchess set them up for a compromising solution).
And don't even get me started on theadults parents. It's amazing that they are even more petty, petulant, and impulsive than their supposedly adult children. The heroine's father owes massive gambling debts, and decides the best thing to do is run away to the Continent - and declares they're doing so in two weeks' time, right in the middle of the Season. He does, however, quite conveniently have *three* weeks to repay his debts. (Seriously??)
*The prose is serviceable, but uninspired. I could practically see the author's outline as I went along, and it was very disappointing that there were no twists at all. This reads like an amateur author's very first fanfic - there is no nuance, no emotional attachment between the reader and the book, or the characters to each other. I have no idea why the heroine and the hero were attracted to each other - their "true love" certainly didn't ring true (and the admission of said love is a huge, irritating Big Misunderstanding plot point that drags all the way through the novel). Every plot point is telegraphed way in advance, and then is rehashed by the characters after the fact, as if the reader is too dense to understand what is going on (I, for one, do not appreciate being insulted.) This is at least this author's 8th novel, and if we suppose that writers get better with practice, I shudder to think what that first book must look like o.O
Even worse, the author seemed to lose interest about halfway through the book, and, like me, kept plowing on to the end just to be done with it. Did she have a word count or page limit to fill? Because I can't really think of any reason the last 1/3 of the novel even needed to happen.
So - if you care about something approaching historical accuracy, consistent characterization, interesting prose, and at least a variation on a well-worn theme, I suggest giving this book a wide berth.
This is the first book I've ever read by Ms. Bowman, and it will be, quite emphatically, my last. I made it about 1/4 of the way through before the "are you kidding me?!"s became vocal. I would've DNFed this book if not for the fact that I received it for review.
The summary sounded like 1000% my catnip, but the book was a complete disappointment - bad, but not so bad it's good, or even funny. Allow me to explain:
Things I liked about this novel:
*Though it is the 8th in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I had no trouble following the plot or the scads of characters, who were introduced in pairings I can only assume came from the previous books.
*Side character Lucy Hunt was a riot, until she wasn't. She was the only character with any sort of discernible personality, proving that this author can write interesting characters if she puts her mind to it. Lucy was totally OTT just like the other characters, but at least she was interesting.
Things I did not like about this novel:
*There is nothing even approaching historical accuracy in this book. I couldn't even call this a wallpaper historical - the only signpost that we have that this book is supposed to take place in the Regency period is the pretty, pretty dresses. Seriously. The characters don't address each other correctly, and certainly don't behave in a manner befitting their station. For example: the heroine (daughter of a baron) and the hero (a viscount heir to an earl) are guests at a duchess's dinner party when said hero splashes soup on his cravat. The heroine (daughter of a baron) insists on going to find silver polish in a servant's closet herself, dismissing the servants waiting at the ready, and then when she (inevitably) gets locked in said closet, the duchess sends the hero after her. I mean - come on. By all means allow your characters to be unconventional but let's not break the suspension of disbelief altogether in service to the silly plot.
*The plot is not only silly, but it is far too predictable, and really more suited to contemporary YA. This author has the sort of flair for foreshadowing akin to a brick: it's really heavy and really obvious. Every tired plot element that you can imagine of the girl-in-love-with-BFF's-older-brother trope is trotted out, right down to the girls gossiping across the hall from the boy as they stare longingly in his direction.
*The characters have no emotional depth or internal consistency at all - they are the very definition of plot-driven, reacting however is dictated by their surroundings. The hero's alcoholism isn't touched on until the very end of the story; the heroine is supposedly a timid little wallflower; both are at turns submissive and assertive. How exactly is the hero a rogue? Ooh, he has a mistress! Whom he never sleeps with! He hangs out at his club and buys horses and boxes, presumably at Gentleman Jackson's. For a supposedly fully grown adult man, he certainly allows his father to run his life. The heroine is not much better - at turns stubborn to the point of stupidity, then soft-hearted, then insanely jealous. Her parents are so OTT evil that you can practically see them twirling mustaches at stage right. The only character with any sort of personality is Lucy Hunt, the duchess, but even she is too much. She runs roughshod not only over the hero, but the heroine she's supposedly "helping." The collective have the emotional maturity of a group of 12-year-olds (though to be honest, that's probably an insult to 12-year-olds everywhere). They run around being stupid and jealous and oblivious to even the most obvious of setups (like said servant's closet above - neither of them could deduce that the meddling duchess set them up for a compromising solution).
And don't even get me started on the
*The prose is serviceable, but uninspired. I could practically see the author's outline as I went along, and it was very disappointing that there were no twists at all. This reads like an amateur author's very first fanfic - there is no nuance, no emotional attachment between the reader and the book, or the characters to each other. I have no idea why the heroine and the hero were attracted to each other - their "true love" certainly didn't ring true (and the admission of said love is a huge, irritating Big Misunderstanding plot point that drags all the way through the novel). Every plot point is telegraphed way in advance, and then is rehashed by the characters after the fact, as if the reader is too dense to understand what is going on (I, for one, do not appreciate being insulted.) This is at least this author's 8th novel, and if we suppose that writers get better with practice, I shudder to think what that first book must look like o.O
Even worse, the author seemed to lose interest about halfway through the book, and, like me, kept plowing on to the end just to be done with it. Did she have a word count or page limit to fill? Because I can't really think of any reason the last 1/3 of the novel even needed to happen.
So - if you care about something approaching historical accuracy, consistent characterization, interesting prose, and at least a variation on a well-worn theme, I suggest giving this book a wide berth.
August 10, 2017
* * * ARC received from Publisher/NetGalley * * *
I've enjoyed this author's previous books, but this one just didn't work for me. The heroine has been in love with her best friend's brother for years, but the hero has barely noticed the heroine. They somehow end up kissing and all of the sudden the hero is attracted to the heroine. Even though he's known her for years, he knows almost nothing about her other than she is nice and loyal. which makes her sound like the family dog. There is a point in the book where he tries to talk to her to learn more about her and she really doesn't have anything to say to him. Her reasons for being in love with him were equally as flimsy. Also, the heroine is given a makeover by her friends and all of the sudden the hero notices how gorgeous she is.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, but the actions of the heroine were kind of inexcusable, especially given what she knew about the hero. She kept trying to manipulate him afterwards rather than just talking to him. She finally stood up for herself towards the end of the book, but it was too little too late. Finally, the last few chapters of the book seemed very rushed. I would recommend some of the earlier books in this series, but not this one.
I've enjoyed this author's previous books, but this one just didn't work for me. The heroine has been in love with her best friend's brother for years, but the hero has barely noticed the heroine. They somehow end up kissing and all of the sudden the hero is attracted to the heroine. Even though he's known her for years, he knows almost nothing about her other than she is nice and loyal. which makes her sound like the family dog. There is a point in the book where he tries to talk to her to learn more about her and she really doesn't have anything to say to him. Her reasons for being in love with him were equally as flimsy. Also, the heroine is given a makeover by her friends and all of the sudden the hero notices how gorgeous she is.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, but the actions of the heroine were kind of inexcusable, especially given what she knew about the hero. She kept trying to manipulate him afterwards rather than just talking to him. She finally stood up for herself towards the end of the book, but it was too little too late. Finally, the last few chapters of the book seemed very rushed. I would recommend some of the earlier books in this series, but not this one.
October 24, 2017
Review: THE RIGHT KIND OF ROGUE by Valerie Bowman THE RIGHT KIND OF ROGUE by Valerie Bowman is book 8 in the "Playful Brides" series. This is the story of Viscount Hart Highgate and Meg Timmons. I have read (and LOVED) the other book in this series but feel this can easily be a standalone book. Meg is a spinster wallflower of sorts with her a father that gambles. Meg has always loved Hart who was her friend's brother. But their parents do not get along and in addition they are on different social levels. Hart's sister does try to put them together. This is Meg's third attempt and the marriage mart and Hart first attempt to settling down and take his family publications to heart. I did enjoy seeing their story come together!https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
October 18, 2017
This was a deliciously adorable book!
I absolutely loved Meg and Hart’s story. They are both set on marrying, Hart to a woman who could provide a healthy dowry, and Meg to Hart. With the help of a friend, Meg sets out to win Hart’s heart.
Hart hasn’t had a very good example of what a healthy marriage looks like so he’s willing to settle. However, as he watches Meg move from being a wallflower to the main attraction of the ton, he finds himself falling more and more under her spell. Of course, he’s just trying to help her out. She’s not the kind of woman he’ll one day marry. And then in the midst of scheming and passion, the unthinkable happens…with help from Meg’s friend.
This is a fast paced read with fun, sassy secondary characters and a great hero and heroine. Meg is learning to stand up for what she wants and Hart is learning, albeit slowly, what love and jealousy feel like.
I haven’t read anything by this author before and I was quite entertained from beginning to end. The fact that he didn’t really see her until she became a butterfly doesn’t really play into this so don’t let that dissuade you. Read it and you’ll see.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press.
Dual POV
Safe – some ow/om drama but it’s not much
No apparent triggers
I absolutely loved Meg and Hart’s story. They are both set on marrying, Hart to a woman who could provide a healthy dowry, and Meg to Hart. With the help of a friend, Meg sets out to win Hart’s heart.
Hart hasn’t had a very good example of what a healthy marriage looks like so he’s willing to settle. However, as he watches Meg move from being a wallflower to the main attraction of the ton, he finds himself falling more and more under her spell. Of course, he’s just trying to help her out. She’s not the kind of woman he’ll one day marry. And then in the midst of scheming and passion, the unthinkable happens…with help from Meg’s friend.
This is a fast paced read with fun, sassy secondary characters and a great hero and heroine. Meg is learning to stand up for what she wants and Hart is learning, albeit slowly, what love and jealousy feel like.
I haven’t read anything by this author before and I was quite entertained from beginning to end. The fact that he didn’t really see her until she became a butterfly doesn’t really play into this so don’t let that dissuade you. Read it and you’ll see.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press.
Dual POV
Safe – some ow/om drama but it’s not much
No apparent triggers
November 4, 2017
Earlier this year, I discovered Valerie Bowman through her last release "Never Love a Pirate". I was thrilled to find such a breezy, funny author who has a different tone from most Regency authors today. Not surprisingly, I was pretty excited to read this new entry in the Playful Brides series.
The Story-
Meg has friends in high places, but she doesn't have much to recommend her: her parents, though part of society, have mountains of debt; she is entering her third season as a wallflower; and, she doesn't even have nice dresses. When her best friend and a duchess friend decide to sponsor her and give her a makeover to make this "her season", they don't know that she only has one guy in mind. Hart never paid much attention to his sister's mousy best friend until she showed up to a recent ball looking like a princess.
My Thoughts-
While I really enjoyed Meg's character and the makeover bits with the duchess, I never felt like Hart's depth of feelings for her was enough. He is constantly thinking about how attractive she is and how he is physically attracted to her, but the emotional/personality side? Not so much. Bowman's humor is back here in full force, especially with a hilarious silver closet incident. The conflict is a bit meh with a misunderstanding that could simply be talked out dominating the latter part of the book. That being said, I read it in one evening, which speaks to pacing and plot development. I also enjoyed the little Romeo and Juliet nods.
The Bottom Line-
If you are a fan of fun and easy Regency romance, you must read Valerie Bowman. This book is a little breath of fresh air, and I will continue to look forward to each release, despite my small niggles with this book. 4 stars
The Story-
Meg has friends in high places, but she doesn't have much to recommend her: her parents, though part of society, have mountains of debt; she is entering her third season as a wallflower; and, she doesn't even have nice dresses. When her best friend and a duchess friend decide to sponsor her and give her a makeover to make this "her season", they don't know that she only has one guy in mind. Hart never paid much attention to his sister's mousy best friend until she showed up to a recent ball looking like a princess.
My Thoughts-
While I really enjoyed Meg's character and the makeover bits with the duchess, I never felt like Hart's depth of feelings for her was enough. He is constantly thinking about how attractive she is and how he is physically attracted to her, but the emotional/personality side? Not so much. Bowman's humor is back here in full force, especially with a hilarious silver closet incident. The conflict is a bit meh with a misunderstanding that could simply be talked out dominating the latter part of the book. That being said, I read it in one evening, which speaks to pacing and plot development. I also enjoyed the little Romeo and Juliet nods.
The Bottom Line-
If you are a fan of fun and easy Regency romance, you must read Valerie Bowman. This book is a little breath of fresh air, and I will continue to look forward to each release, despite my small niggles with this book. 4 stars
October 24, 2017
2.5 stars - My review cross-posted from
Wit and Sin
Meg Timmons has been in love with Viscount Hart Highgate since she was a teenager, but she knows she’ll have to take drastic measures to get his attention. Not only are their families feuding, but Meg is a penniless wallflower and not the well-connected heiress Hart’s father wants him to wed. When she hears that Hart is determined to find a bride, Meg takes the plunge and asks infamous plotter Lucy Hunt to help her capture Hart’s heart. But even the best-laid plans have a tendency to go awry…
The Right Kind of Rogue is part Romeo and Juliet, part Cinderella, but manages to feel like its own story instead of a retelling of either. I adore Valerie Bowman’s Playful Brides series and I’ve been highly anticipating Meg and Hart’s book, as heroines who are in love with their best friend’s brother is a favorite romance trope of mine. Yet while I liked this book – mostly due to Ms. Bowman’s writing style, which I enjoy – I didn’t love it like I wanted to.
Meg is a likeable heroine whose rather horrid family makes her a sympathetic heroine. She’s been infatuated with Hart for years, but though she explains why she falls in love with him, I’m not sure why she stays that way. Hart is a good man with some good qualities, but you have to get past the drinking and self-centeredness to find a hero worth rooting for. While I have no problem with a protagonist who starts out unlikeable (it gives them room to grow), Hart took way too long to finally stop being selfish and to appreciate Meg. Most frustrating of all, Hart never took an active part in his own story. Meg bends over backwards for him, and even though she makes mistakes, she tries – something Hart never does. I find stories where the hero and heroine would never have gotten together without tons of pushing from their friends to be frustrating. Which brings me to the third main character of The Right Kind of Rogue : Lucy Hunt. The Duchess of Claringdon (and the first Playful Brides heroine) feels like she has nearly as much page time as Meg and Hart. Lucy starts out as a fairy godmother type, but she turns into a veritable tornado, uncaring of the damage she causes so long as the end result is what she planned. While I like seeing past heroes and heroines pop up in a series (Sarah and Christian of The Legendary Lord were charming in this story), Lucy steals the spotlight in this book and that’s not a good thing.
While I did have some issues with The Right Kind of Rogue , I don’t want to make it sound like a bad book. Ms. Bowman’s light, effervescent style still shines and I was drawn into the story even when I wanted to shake Hart. The romance also has some sweet moments and there is definite chemistry between Meg and Hart. So while Meg and Hart’s romance wasn’t all I’d hoped it would be, I still adore Ms. Bowman’s writing and I cannot wait to read the next Playful Brides book.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Meg Timmons has been in love with Viscount Hart Highgate since she was a teenager, but she knows she’ll have to take drastic measures to get his attention. Not only are their families feuding, but Meg is a penniless wallflower and not the well-connected heiress Hart’s father wants him to wed. When she hears that Hart is determined to find a bride, Meg takes the plunge and asks infamous plotter Lucy Hunt to help her capture Hart’s heart. But even the best-laid plans have a tendency to go awry…
The Right Kind of Rogue is part Romeo and Juliet, part Cinderella, but manages to feel like its own story instead of a retelling of either. I adore Valerie Bowman’s Playful Brides series and I’ve been highly anticipating Meg and Hart’s book, as heroines who are in love with their best friend’s brother is a favorite romance trope of mine. Yet while I liked this book – mostly due to Ms. Bowman’s writing style, which I enjoy – I didn’t love it like I wanted to.
Meg is a likeable heroine whose rather horrid family makes her a sympathetic heroine. She’s been infatuated with Hart for years, but though she explains why she falls in love with him, I’m not sure why she stays that way. Hart is a good man with some good qualities, but you have to get past the drinking and self-centeredness to find a hero worth rooting for. While I have no problem with a protagonist who starts out unlikeable (it gives them room to grow), Hart took way too long to finally stop being selfish and to appreciate Meg. Most frustrating of all, Hart never took an active part in his own story. Meg bends over backwards for him, and even though she makes mistakes, she tries – something Hart never does. I find stories where the hero and heroine would never have gotten together without tons of pushing from their friends to be frustrating. Which brings me to the third main character of The Right Kind of Rogue : Lucy Hunt. The Duchess of Claringdon (and the first Playful Brides heroine) feels like she has nearly as much page time as Meg and Hart. Lucy starts out as a fairy godmother type, but she turns into a veritable tornado, uncaring of the damage she causes so long as the end result is what she planned. While I like seeing past heroes and heroines pop up in a series (Sarah and Christian of The Legendary Lord were charming in this story), Lucy steals the spotlight in this book and that’s not a good thing.
While I did have some issues with The Right Kind of Rogue , I don’t want to make it sound like a bad book. Ms. Bowman’s light, effervescent style still shines and I was drawn into the story even when I wanted to shake Hart. The romance also has some sweet moments and there is definite chemistry between Meg and Hart. So while Meg and Hart’s romance wasn’t all I’d hoped it would be, I still adore Ms. Bowman’s writing and I cannot wait to read the next Playful Brides book.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 18, 2017
What's a wallflower to do? Meg Timmons hasn't had a new gown since the beginning of her first Season, and with her spendthrift father deep in debt, she isn't likely to get one this season either. Her chances for marriage diminishing by the day, she falls into utter despair when her best friend Sarah lets drop the fact that Sarah's older brother Hart plans to select a bride.
Hart Highgate needs a bride to satisfy his demanding father; preferably a wealthy, compliant, beautiful one who will provide the required heir sooner rather than later. Meg Timmons, impoverished daughter of his father's enemy, is the last girl he should be considering as a potential marriage prospect.
Enter an interfering duchess who fancies herself a matchmaker, and suddenly Meg is transformed from the dowdy girl on the outskirts of the ballroom to a diamond of the Ton. Hart can't possibly marry her, but he can't take his eyes off her either.
Meg's plight becomes urgent when her father's debtors become insistent. She has just weeks to secure a marriage proposal from someone - anyone - before her family must flee to the Continent. The problem is, the only man she's ever even considered is Hart, and he doesn't seem to have marriage in mind.
This is an absolute delight of a book; I was rooting for Meg to get her happily ever after from the very beginning. Hart was an absolute darling who never even suggested she was being overly dramatic; after a bad experience with a fortune-hunter in the past he didn't exactly take the duchess' meddling well, but he also got over himself and did a fabulous grovel to Meg once he'd realized the error of his ways.
The Right Kind Of Rogue is the kind of Cinderella story where the prince suddenly realizes what he wants has been right under his nose all along. I couldn't stop smiling for ages after I finished reading it. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Hart Highgate needs a bride to satisfy his demanding father; preferably a wealthy, compliant, beautiful one who will provide the required heir sooner rather than later. Meg Timmons, impoverished daughter of his father's enemy, is the last girl he should be considering as a potential marriage prospect.
Enter an interfering duchess who fancies herself a matchmaker, and suddenly Meg is transformed from the dowdy girl on the outskirts of the ballroom to a diamond of the Ton. Hart can't possibly marry her, but he can't take his eyes off her either.
Meg's plight becomes urgent when her father's debtors become insistent. She has just weeks to secure a marriage proposal from someone - anyone - before her family must flee to the Continent. The problem is, the only man she's ever even considered is Hart, and he doesn't seem to have marriage in mind.
This is an absolute delight of a book; I was rooting for Meg to get her happily ever after from the very beginning. Hart was an absolute darling who never even suggested she was being overly dramatic; after a bad experience with a fortune-hunter in the past he didn't exactly take the duchess' meddling well, but he also got over himself and did a fabulous grovel to Meg once he'd realized the error of his ways.
The Right Kind Of Rogue is the kind of Cinderella story where the prince suddenly realizes what he wants has been right under his nose all along. I couldn't stop smiling for ages after I finished reading it. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
September 15, 2017
This was just how I like my HR! I read it a day :D Sure the not communication thing was somewhat annoying at the end, just shout it out girl. Damn it.
Hart is a rogue, but come on, aren't they always ;) He wants to marry some sensible, nice, good ton woman with lots of money. Not that he needs it.
Meg is poor and owns 3 dresses. Sure she may be of the same class, but...yup poor as a church mouse and a spinster cos who cares about the poor girl who always wears the same dress. But she IS besties with Hart's sis, and she has been in love with him for years.
And now he needs a wife and she wants to catch him. Let's the games begin. Aye, you know how it goes, of course he will fancy her, but he needs a better wife. And of course there will be some drama at the end. But I liked that the road there was sweet and it was fun to read.
It did make me want to read the rest in the series and see if they have the same tone.
I enjoyed it :)
Hart is a rogue, but come on, aren't they always ;) He wants to marry some sensible, nice, good ton woman with lots of money. Not that he needs it.
Meg is poor and owns 3 dresses. Sure she may be of the same class, but...yup poor as a church mouse and a spinster cos who cares about the poor girl who always wears the same dress. But she IS besties with Hart's sis, and she has been in love with him for years.
And now he needs a wife and she wants to catch him. Let's the games begin. Aye, you know how it goes, of course he will fancy her, but he needs a better wife. And of course there will be some drama at the end. But I liked that the road there was sweet and it was fun to read.
It did make me want to read the rest in the series and see if they have the same tone.
I enjoyed it :)
June 6, 2018
3/5 stars.
0.5 more than I anticipated because 60% of the book kept me occupied when I was on a plane so it deserved a little more love.
Meg has been in love with her friend's brother since she was 16. But she did never held on to any hope because he was a rake and she was a wallflower. You can guess where this is going.
I would have enjoyed this book much more if the level of mis communication and mis understandings weren't so ..... pedestrian. It's a good one time feel good book for all you HR lovers, but it won't stay with you
0.5 more than I anticipated because 60% of the book kept me occupied when I was on a plane so it deserved a little more love.
Meg has been in love with her friend's brother since she was 16. But she did never held on to any hope because he was a rake and she was a wallflower. You can guess where this is going.
I would have enjoyed this book much more if the level of mis communication and mis understandings weren't so ..... pedestrian. It's a good one time feel good book for all you HR lovers, but it won't stay with you
November 14, 2017
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
The Right Kind Of Rogue is the most recent addition in the Playful Bride series by Valerie Bowman. I confess I have only read the first book of the series, but boy I really need to read the other books in the series since I just had a jolly good time with this one even if it was a bit dramatic at times. But this wonderful author has brought has a stunning Romeo and Juliet romance without the suicides and a happy ending.
The Right Kind Of Rogue is a story that begins with our heroine Meg Timmons. Meg has been in love with Viscount Hart Highgate ever since she was a teenager. But it would be near impossible for them to ever be together because their parents hate each other and hve a terrible feud. But when she learns that Hart has declared himself ready for marriage and is on the lookout for a wife, time is running out. So she goes to get help from an infamous matchmaker, Lucy. But as she takes on Lucy's advice, and acts more bolder than she has ever been, she and Hart discover a passion but will it be ruined by lack of trust and scandal?
What a story and boy I had a really fun time with this one. And I just breezed right through it, I was pretty surprised that it only took a couple hours to read this story but then from what I have read from Bowman...that is typical. I always become sucked into the story. I really liked the set up of the story, seeing this more reserved wallflower, go after the man she loves. What I was impressed with was the heroine. Especially in how she treats the hero. She wants to win his heart in a very honest and true ways. But her new found friend Lucy is unconventional and tricky, which as a matchmaker makes sense. Now I did like Lucy (she is the heroine in book one) so it was nice seeing her character again, but I grew to admire Meg in how she stands up to Lucy in how she wants to win over Hart so that there is no deceit. She wants Hart to want her and marry her for the right reasons and not because of trickery.
There is also a family feud here to deal with as well. Now Meg is best friends with Hart's younger sister. So Harts parents have always accepted Meg but they are very against a match between Hart and Meg. There is a terrible secret that Hart and Meg's parents are hiding, a scandal erupts and we see how Meg and Hart have to overcome matters of mistrust and trickery not of their own making. Even though I wasn't a fan in the dramatics toward the end, I did love the way this romance builds between Hart and Meg. They definitely have some great chemistry of course, but there is way more to their relationship. I love see two people who have known each other since they were children and try to find a way to reach their HEA despite the other factors surrounding them that make it near impossible for them to be together.
I have always been a fan of Romeo and Juliet retellings and I felt that Valerie Bowman handled it really well. Especially when we see these two find their HEA, and we solve the mystery revolving around the two families and I liked the drama and fun times that Lucy and the other ladies bring to the story and her "interference" is pretty entertaining.
Overall I found The Right Kind Of Rogue to be a sexy, lively, full of laughs and a romance to leave you with a smile, a highly engaging romance that entertains and delights!
[foogallery id="46073"]
The Right Kind Of Rogue is the most recent addition in the Playful Bride series by Valerie Bowman. I confess I have only read the first book of the series, but boy I really need to read the other books in the series since I just had a jolly good time with this one even if it was a bit dramatic at times. But this wonderful author has brought has a stunning Romeo and Juliet romance without the suicides and a happy ending.
The Right Kind Of Rogue is a story that begins with our heroine Meg Timmons. Meg has been in love with Viscount Hart Highgate ever since she was a teenager. But it would be near impossible for them to ever be together because their parents hate each other and hve a terrible feud. But when she learns that Hart has declared himself ready for marriage and is on the lookout for a wife, time is running out. So she goes to get help from an infamous matchmaker, Lucy. But as she takes on Lucy's advice, and acts more bolder than she has ever been, she and Hart discover a passion but will it be ruined by lack of trust and scandal?
What a story and boy I had a really fun time with this one. And I just breezed right through it, I was pretty surprised that it only took a couple hours to read this story but then from what I have read from Bowman...that is typical. I always become sucked into the story. I really liked the set up of the story, seeing this more reserved wallflower, go after the man she loves. What I was impressed with was the heroine. Especially in how she treats the hero. She wants to win his heart in a very honest and true ways. But her new found friend Lucy is unconventional and tricky, which as a matchmaker makes sense. Now I did like Lucy (she is the heroine in book one) so it was nice seeing her character again, but I grew to admire Meg in how she stands up to Lucy in how she wants to win over Hart so that there is no deceit. She wants Hart to want her and marry her for the right reasons and not because of trickery.
There is also a family feud here to deal with as well. Now Meg is best friends with Hart's younger sister. So Harts parents have always accepted Meg but they are very against a match between Hart and Meg. There is a terrible secret that Hart and Meg's parents are hiding, a scandal erupts and we see how Meg and Hart have to overcome matters of mistrust and trickery not of their own making. Even though I wasn't a fan in the dramatics toward the end, I did love the way this romance builds between Hart and Meg. They definitely have some great chemistry of course, but there is way more to their relationship. I love see two people who have known each other since they were children and try to find a way to reach their HEA despite the other factors surrounding them that make it near impossible for them to be together.
I have always been a fan of Romeo and Juliet retellings and I felt that Valerie Bowman handled it really well. Especially when we see these two find their HEA, and we solve the mystery revolving around the two families and I liked the drama and fun times that Lucy and the other ladies bring to the story and her "interference" is pretty entertaining.
Overall I found The Right Kind Of Rogue to be a sexy, lively, full of laughs and a romance to leave you with a smile, a highly engaging romance that entertains and delights!
[foogallery id="46073"]
October 23, 2017
The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman
Playful Brides #8
Lucy has loved Hart, her best friend’s brother, since she was sixteen. Their parents have been enemies forever. In her third year on the marriage market in London and the season beginning she hears Hart is finally ready to find a wife so she enlists the aid of her friend Lucy in finding a way to have Hart see her as his potential wife. With Lucy’s machinations often going awry, both sets of parents creating trouble, Meg definitely wanting Hart and Hart definitely against love or devious women the stage is set for problems aplenty…and that is just what happens…until both Hart and Meg find a way to a HEA.
This book was so-so for me. I ended up skimming parts of it because it seemed contrived and at times silly. I had trouble believing the story, the reactions, the interactions, the idea that Meg would share so much and trust those she shared with implicitly. I couldn’t see a 29 year old man being so immature and doing and saying and behaving as he often did. I had trouble understanding why Meg could love Hart and hold a torch for for him for four or five years. I guess it takes all types to make the world go around but Meg and Hart made me feel there has to be more. And, that said, I looked back over books I have read in this series and found that I loved and rated one five stars so will continue on hoping there will be another such book to read in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3 Stars
Playful Brides #8
Lucy has loved Hart, her best friend’s brother, since she was sixteen. Their parents have been enemies forever. In her third year on the marriage market in London and the season beginning she hears Hart is finally ready to find a wife so she enlists the aid of her friend Lucy in finding a way to have Hart see her as his potential wife. With Lucy’s machinations often going awry, both sets of parents creating trouble, Meg definitely wanting Hart and Hart definitely against love or devious women the stage is set for problems aplenty…and that is just what happens…until both Hart and Meg find a way to a HEA.
This book was so-so for me. I ended up skimming parts of it because it seemed contrived and at times silly. I had trouble believing the story, the reactions, the interactions, the idea that Meg would share so much and trust those she shared with implicitly. I couldn’t see a 29 year old man being so immature and doing and saying and behaving as he often did. I had trouble understanding why Meg could love Hart and hold a torch for for him for four or five years. I guess it takes all types to make the world go around but Meg and Hart made me feel there has to be more. And, that said, I looked back over books I have read in this series and found that I loved and rated one five stars so will continue on hoping there will be another such book to read in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3 Stars
October 29, 2017
Another star crossed romance!
Really, by now the ladies of the ton should know better than to entertain Lucy Hunt's grand schemes relating to marriage.
'Lucy Hunt. The young, dashing Duchess of Claringdon was a favorite of the ton. She was rich. She was beautiful. She was outspoken. And she was master of planning plots' always a near disaster and with a generous helping of agonizing anticipation.
Meg has loved her best friend Sarah's brother, Viscount Hart Highgate, since she was sixteen. Hart has decided to marry but his parents' example leaves him cold. There's no way Hart would even consider Meg, especially as they're parents have been at odds for years. With parents like these two have who needs enemies. Although he does have five good reasons to help Sarah find Meg a husband.
Lucy Hunt decides to take Meg Timmons under her wing and help the situation along. Talk about from the frying pan into the fire! Meg's romantic efforts guided by Lucy certainly run that course.
Sometimes a romance starts with a kiss and life unfolds beautifully, but for Meg and Hart the obstacle course is rough with gaping pitfalls.
A NetGalley ARC
Really, by now the ladies of the ton should know better than to entertain Lucy Hunt's grand schemes relating to marriage.
'Lucy Hunt. The young, dashing Duchess of Claringdon was a favorite of the ton. She was rich. She was beautiful. She was outspoken. And she was master of planning plots' always a near disaster and with a generous helping of agonizing anticipation.
Meg has loved her best friend Sarah's brother, Viscount Hart Highgate, since she was sixteen. Hart has decided to marry but his parents' example leaves him cold. There's no way Hart would even consider Meg, especially as they're parents have been at odds for years. With parents like these two have who needs enemies. Although he does have five good reasons to help Sarah find Meg a husband.
Lucy Hunt decides to take Meg Timmons under her wing and help the situation along. Talk about from the frying pan into the fire! Meg's romantic efforts guided by Lucy certainly run that course.
Sometimes a romance starts with a kiss and life unfolds beautifully, but for Meg and Hart the obstacle course is rough with gaping pitfalls.
A NetGalley ARC
October 25, 2017
The Playful Brides series has been fun and light hearted for me. I have found something or another to keep me coming back and making an excuse to revisit old friends and make new ones. This time around things have a little turn of events. I loved visiting the old couples that have come before. Their antics have been fun to watch. Now with Hart and Meg there seems to be a new precedent set for me. Hart was not just a reluctant future husband. He was doing all because his friends were married or marrying starting families.
I had my fun with watching how things would fall in to place since Hart of course wanted a future wife with money, good family and beautiful. Instead he finds the one woman that he should probably stay away from. No money. A family his family has a feud with. She no dogg, but she is on her third season. Something is not right.
I could not muster the strength to battle my hero through the book. I got my fun and light hearted read but I did not connect with Hart.
I had my fun with watching how things would fall in to place since Hart of course wanted a future wife with money, good family and beautiful. Instead he finds the one woman that he should probably stay away from. No money. A family his family has a feud with. She no dogg, but she is on her third season. Something is not right.
I could not muster the strength to battle my hero through the book. I got my fun and light hearted read but I did not connect with Hart.
August 15, 2017
It is seemingly impossible to find a Valerie Bowman book that I don't love. She is such a great story teller, and this 8th book in the Playful Brides series did not disappoint.
Check out my full review on my blog For the Love of Words.
Check out my full review on my blog For the Love of Words.
October 15, 2017
Series: Playful Brides #8
Publication Date: 10/31/17
I have loved all the Playful Brides books and this one is no exception. I loved the book, the characters, and the writing. I read this book while traveling and even with the interruptions I could hardly put it down. I read it straight through.
Hart Highgate is a Viscount in his own right as well as being the heir to an Earldom. He drinks too much, lives recklessly, loves horses and horse racing and has absolutely no good thoughts about marriage. When you meet his parents, you quickly understand why he doesn’t look forward to marriage. However, he has decided that this is the season he will choose a wife.
Meg Timmons is the daughter of an impoverished Baron. She is in her third season and has worn the same three gowns all three seasons, her gloves are graying and her slippers are fraying. She’s also madly, desperately, totally in love with her best friend’s brother – Hart Highgate. However, Hart doesn’t even know she is alive and even if he did, she wouldn’t be his choice for a bride. His family would never allow it because her family and his family are bitter enemies.
Sarah, Hart’s sister and the heroine from book 6, The Legendary Lord, is determined to find a match for Meg this season. Sarah knows that Meg loves Hart, but she also believes that Hart is not the right man for Meg. She knows that Hart doesn’t look forward to marriage nor does he have any respect for it. Hart, Sarah is sure, will break Meg’s heart. So she sets out to find a good match for her friend.
When Meg learns that Hart has determined to marry this season, she knows she is out of time, so she asks Lucy Hunt, Duchess of Claringdon to help her win Hart. However, she makes Lucy promise that there will be no trapping Hart into marriage. Meg only wants it to be a real loving marriage and if Hart feels the same.
Lucy, as in every book, is over the top. She believes she is always right and expects everybody to go along with her. Actually, she really is usually right. However, this time, she really hurts both Meg and Hart and almost destroys any chance they have of making a successful match.
Meg and Hart’s HEA is very hard won and you begin to wonder if it will really happen. Both are stubborn as they can be and both families are against them. I liked both of the characters and was really rooting for them and their relationship.
In the interest of being frank here – the forms of address and the casual way they speak and refer to each other is totally off base. I know that Lucy and the others are supposed to be ‘unconventional’, but unconventional in that time period would still not be so casual.
Now, I am already anxiously awaiting the next book in the series – especially so I can get an update on what is going on with Hart and Meg!
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 10/31/17
I have loved all the Playful Brides books and this one is no exception. I loved the book, the characters, and the writing. I read this book while traveling and even with the interruptions I could hardly put it down. I read it straight through.
Hart Highgate is a Viscount in his own right as well as being the heir to an Earldom. He drinks too much, lives recklessly, loves horses and horse racing and has absolutely no good thoughts about marriage. When you meet his parents, you quickly understand why he doesn’t look forward to marriage. However, he has decided that this is the season he will choose a wife.
Meg Timmons is the daughter of an impoverished Baron. She is in her third season and has worn the same three gowns all three seasons, her gloves are graying and her slippers are fraying. She’s also madly, desperately, totally in love with her best friend’s brother – Hart Highgate. However, Hart doesn’t even know she is alive and even if he did, she wouldn’t be his choice for a bride. His family would never allow it because her family and his family are bitter enemies.
Sarah, Hart’s sister and the heroine from book 6, The Legendary Lord, is determined to find a match for Meg this season. Sarah knows that Meg loves Hart, but she also believes that Hart is not the right man for Meg. She knows that Hart doesn’t look forward to marriage nor does he have any respect for it. Hart, Sarah is sure, will break Meg’s heart. So she sets out to find a good match for her friend.
When Meg learns that Hart has determined to marry this season, she knows she is out of time, so she asks Lucy Hunt, Duchess of Claringdon to help her win Hart. However, she makes Lucy promise that there will be no trapping Hart into marriage. Meg only wants it to be a real loving marriage and if Hart feels the same.
Lucy, as in every book, is over the top. She believes she is always right and expects everybody to go along with her. Actually, she really is usually right. However, this time, she really hurts both Meg and Hart and almost destroys any chance they have of making a successful match.
Meg and Hart’s HEA is very hard won and you begin to wonder if it will really happen. Both are stubborn as they can be and both families are against them. I liked both of the characters and was really rooting for them and their relationship.
In the interest of being frank here – the forms of address and the casual way they speak and refer to each other is totally off base. I know that Lucy and the others are supposed to be ‘unconventional’, but unconventional in that time period would still not be so casual.
Now, I am already anxiously awaiting the next book in the series – especially so I can get an update on what is going on with Hart and Meg!
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
September 5, 2017
One of my favorites of this series!
Meg Timmons and Sarah, Lady Berkeley, have been friends for a long time even though their fathers are sworn enemies. Meg has been in love with Sarah’s brother, Hart, since she was 16 and he stood up to her mother for berating her. This season Sarah’s goal is to find Meg a husband. In pursuit of that goal, they enlist Lucy Hunt, Duchess of Claringdon, to help Meg with her clothes and invitations. Meg is no longer a wallflower.
Meg’s life was going well, until Lucy “accidently” locks Meg and Hart in the silver closet and later sets them up to be caught kissing in her garden. Hart is angry about being trapped into marriage and is sure Meg set him up. They marry and he ignores her even while helping her parents. Meg is determined to make their marriage work and tries seduction but he is still angry with her for setting him up.
Of course, there is a HEA, but you’ll have to read this very good book to know how it happens. Thanks to Valerie Bowman, the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC. Available October 31st.
Meg Timmons and Sarah, Lady Berkeley, have been friends for a long time even though their fathers are sworn enemies. Meg has been in love with Sarah’s brother, Hart, since she was 16 and he stood up to her mother for berating her. This season Sarah’s goal is to find Meg a husband. In pursuit of that goal, they enlist Lucy Hunt, Duchess of Claringdon, to help Meg with her clothes and invitations. Meg is no longer a wallflower.
Meg’s life was going well, until Lucy “accidently” locks Meg and Hart in the silver closet and later sets them up to be caught kissing in her garden. Hart is angry about being trapped into marriage and is sure Meg set him up. They marry and he ignores her even while helping her parents. Meg is determined to make their marriage work and tries seduction but he is still angry with her for setting him up.
Of course, there is a HEA, but you’ll have to read this very good book to know how it happens. Thanks to Valerie Bowman, the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC. Available October 31st.
October 31, 2017
"He's a rogue, an unrepentant charmer."
FINAL DECISION: A Romeo and Juliet type romance between two warring families (with humor and less death). A wallflower finally being noticed by the man she has loved for years, this is a story where I liked the characters quite a bit.
THE STORY: Viscount Hart Highgate is searching for a wife who is well-connected socially and brings her own funds with her. Meg Timmons has loved the raking Hart for years but as a wallflower not only doesn't she fit the requirements that Hart has set down, but she comes from a family that is involved in a feud with Hart's family. Meg is taken under the wing of a matchmaker who transforms her into the belle of the ball who knows she desperately needs to marry someone to save her family from ruin -- even as she only wants the one man she knows she cannot have.
OPINION: I like the combination of humor and drama that is part of this book. There is also a fairy tale aspect (Cinderella) combined with a bit of Romeo and Juliet (without the teenage death).
There is a sweetness to this story as Hart and Meg get to know one another as he is supposed to be helping her find a husband. After first noticing that she is a beautiful woman, he actually gets to know her as a person. At the same time, Meg had a crush on Hart that becomes love as the two dance and laugh and get to know one another.
I really liked Meg who is a genuinely nice person who cares about those around her. But she also makes mistakes as the story demonstrates. Hart is described as a rogue and a rake, but we actually don't get to see much of that but rather he shows a very nice and gentle side for most of the story.
In other hands this might have been a light and fluffy romance, but the darkness and dysfunctional parents of the hero and heroine and Hart's own history brings some hard moments into this story, but things stay on the lighter side. This story is not dark so those that prefer their historical romance a bit lighter will enjoy this one. There were scenes where I laughed out loud at the interactions.
My only complaint about the book is that I thought that the resolution of the story demanded a little more than what we got. The conflict was so acute at that point that I expected a more dramatic resolution -- or perhaps the break seemed to demand something more. Despite this, I enjoyed this book and I especially liked seeing characters from the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: Hiccups.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE RIGHT KIND OF ROGUE is the eighth book in the Playful Brides series. This book can be read on its own, but there are a number of cross-over characters (especially from THE LEGENDARY LORD) so I think the book is more enjoyable read as part of the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
FINAL DECISION: A Romeo and Juliet type romance between two warring families (with humor and less death). A wallflower finally being noticed by the man she has loved for years, this is a story where I liked the characters quite a bit.
THE STORY: Viscount Hart Highgate is searching for a wife who is well-connected socially and brings her own funds with her. Meg Timmons has loved the raking Hart for years but as a wallflower not only doesn't she fit the requirements that Hart has set down, but she comes from a family that is involved in a feud with Hart's family. Meg is taken under the wing of a matchmaker who transforms her into the belle of the ball who knows she desperately needs to marry someone to save her family from ruin -- even as she only wants the one man she knows she cannot have.
OPINION: I like the combination of humor and drama that is part of this book. There is also a fairy tale aspect (Cinderella) combined with a bit of Romeo and Juliet (without the teenage death).
There is a sweetness to this story as Hart and Meg get to know one another as he is supposed to be helping her find a husband. After first noticing that she is a beautiful woman, he actually gets to know her as a person. At the same time, Meg had a crush on Hart that becomes love as the two dance and laugh and get to know one another.
I really liked Meg who is a genuinely nice person who cares about those around her. But she also makes mistakes as the story demonstrates. Hart is described as a rogue and a rake, but we actually don't get to see much of that but rather he shows a very nice and gentle side for most of the story.
In other hands this might have been a light and fluffy romance, but the darkness and dysfunctional parents of the hero and heroine and Hart's own history brings some hard moments into this story, but things stay on the lighter side. This story is not dark so those that prefer their historical romance a bit lighter will enjoy this one. There were scenes where I laughed out loud at the interactions.
My only complaint about the book is that I thought that the resolution of the story demanded a little more than what we got. The conflict was so acute at that point that I expected a more dramatic resolution -- or perhaps the break seemed to demand something more. Despite this, I enjoyed this book and I especially liked seeing characters from the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: Hiccups.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE RIGHT KIND OF ROGUE is the eighth book in the Playful Brides series. This book can be read on its own, but there are a number of cross-over characters (especially from THE LEGENDARY LORD) so I think the book is more enjoyable read as part of the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
November 5, 2017
Posted on What I'm Reading
Talk about getting heart palpitations, The Right Kind of Rogue wasn't an easy read. Seriously, we have I worried for Meg Timmons throughout the story. I had cause for worry, because she enlisted the help of Lucy Hunt. No good ever comes when she gets in the thick of things, but does she causes some havoc on Meg's life. Luckily it all works out for Meg, but there were some nail biting instants.
We have Meg who has been in love with Hart Highgate since she was 16. A long time to be in love with a guy. Anyway, she decides to put aside her dreams of Hart realizing she's the woman for him, and decides to find a husband. However, Lucy gets involve to help her win Hart, because there is hope that he loves her too. Hart decided it was high time to find the perfect wife, and help Meg find a husband too. This is where the nail biting comes into play. This was rough seeing Hart fight his feelings, but wasn't quite sure if he had feelings for Meg. Seriously, it was stressful. Plus, it gets a little ugly at this time.
Anyway, Valerie is masterful at making a story come to life, even one that makes you anxious you hope that everything goes according to plan. Yes, you will find bumps along the path in the story, because there's always bumps when Lucy gets involve. The Right Kind of Rogue is like a Romeo & Juliet kind of story. Fortunately, no one ends up dying. It's a happier ending that story. Like I said the road to true love is a little bumpy, and Hart's a bit stubborn. He's kind of a jerk towards Meg. I'm surprise no smacked him upside the head, which would have been perfectly acceptable. Valerie brings out another fun read in the Playful Brides books.
Copy provided by author
Rating:
4 1/2 Stars
Talk about getting heart palpitations, The Right Kind of Rogue wasn't an easy read. Seriously, we have I worried for Meg Timmons throughout the story. I had cause for worry, because she enlisted the help of Lucy Hunt. No good ever comes when she gets in the thick of things, but does she causes some havoc on Meg's life. Luckily it all works out for Meg, but there were some nail biting instants.
We have Meg who has been in love with Hart Highgate since she was 16. A long time to be in love with a guy. Anyway, she decides to put aside her dreams of Hart realizing she's the woman for him, and decides to find a husband. However, Lucy gets involve to help her win Hart, because there is hope that he loves her too. Hart decided it was high time to find the perfect wife, and help Meg find a husband too. This is where the nail biting comes into play. This was rough seeing Hart fight his feelings, but wasn't quite sure if he had feelings for Meg. Seriously, it was stressful. Plus, it gets a little ugly at this time.
Anyway, Valerie is masterful at making a story come to life, even one that makes you anxious you hope that everything goes according to plan. Yes, you will find bumps along the path in the story, because there's always bumps when Lucy gets involve. The Right Kind of Rogue is like a Romeo & Juliet kind of story. Fortunately, no one ends up dying. It's a happier ending that story. Like I said the road to true love is a little bumpy, and Hart's a bit stubborn. He's kind of a jerk towards Meg. I'm surprise no smacked him upside the head, which would have been perfectly acceptable. Valerie brings out another fun read in the Playful Brides books.
Copy provided by author
Rating:
4 1/2 Stars
October 31, 2017
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review. This book tells the story of Meg (Margaret) Timmons, a wallflower who desperately wants to be noticed by her friends brother. Hart Highgate, Sarah's brother (Sarah was the heroine of The Legendary Lord, where we first meet Hart and Meg) has recently decided its high time he settle down and find a wife. Even though Meg knows that Hart hates a scheming manipulator, she enlists Lucy's help (Lucy was the heroine of the first book in the series) to at least get Hart to notice her. Lucy, of course, takes things a bit too far and ends up ensnaring Meg and Hart in a sticky situation. Plus even though they both have feelings for each other, their families hate each other and have refused a match between the two. So do they really have any hope of being together?
Overall I liked this book ok. I thought that both Meg and Hart's characters could have been developed a little more than they were but their story was still a sweet love story. Lucy in the story compares Meg and Hart to Romeo and Juliet, due to them being star crossed lovers, which I mostly understood except for how hard-headed and not in love Hart was for most of the book. It got to be a little frustrating that no one could talk about their feelings or tell the truth. And the few times someone actually told the truth they weren't listened to. It got to be quite irksome after awhile. They (obviously) worked it out in the end though and it was a sweet ending. This one wasn't my favorite but it was a sweet, easy and quick read so I'd recommend it.
Overall I liked this book ok. I thought that both Meg and Hart's characters could have been developed a little more than they were but their story was still a sweet love story. Lucy in the story compares Meg and Hart to Romeo and Juliet, due to them being star crossed lovers, which I mostly understood except for how hard-headed and not in love Hart was for most of the book. It got to be a little frustrating that no one could talk about their feelings or tell the truth. And the few times someone actually told the truth they weren't listened to. It got to be quite irksome after awhile. They (obviously) worked it out in the end though and it was a sweet ending. This one wasn't my favorite but it was a sweet, easy and quick read so I'd recommend it.
October 17, 2017
3.5/5
The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman ended up being such an enchanting read. It was fast paced and kept me enthralled from the beginning to the end. The overall feeling is very light heart from the banter to the women's scheming.
Meg Timmons wants one thing in life and that is Hart Highgate, but she has everything against her to get him. I really like Meg as o ur main lady. She has everything against her, but she remains strong and fights for what she wants. She is loving and kind even to those who don't deserve it. She is loyal, fierce, and intelligent.
Hart is my favorite type of leading gents. He is witty, a bit arrogant, and oh so charming. It takes him a while to get his head out of his a** where Meg is concern. Hart is also fiercely protective of those loves, and will do anything to see them safe and happy. Overall, he is what I would call "a great guy."
The only thing that bothered me and I felt was missing was more interaction and growth between Meg and Hart. I feel like all the feeling came and there really wasn't any pivotal talking, and realizing I love you. There is some, don't get me wrong, I just like there to be more to make it feel little more real. I find that I have this complaint with a lot of books actually, so it might just be a "me" thing.
Overall, this was a great, easy, and light read that I was able to conquer in a very short amount of time. I was entertain and enjoyed, and I only have a very small and minor complaint. It is definitely worth checking out!
More of my reviews can be found @ Caught Reading Redheaded
The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman ended up being such an enchanting read. It was fast paced and kept me enthralled from the beginning to the end. The overall feeling is very light heart from the banter to the women's scheming.
Meg Timmons wants one thing in life and that is Hart Highgate, but she has everything against her to get him. I really like Meg as o ur main lady. She has everything against her, but she remains strong and fights for what she wants. She is loving and kind even to those who don't deserve it. She is loyal, fierce, and intelligent.
Hart is my favorite type of leading gents. He is witty, a bit arrogant, and oh so charming. It takes him a while to get his head out of his a** where Meg is concern. Hart is also fiercely protective of those loves, and will do anything to see them safe and happy. Overall, he is what I would call "a great guy."
The only thing that bothered me and I felt was missing was more interaction and growth between Meg and Hart. I feel like all the feeling came and there really wasn't any pivotal talking, and realizing I love you. There is some, don't get me wrong, I just like there to be more to make it feel little more real. I find that I have this complaint with a lot of books actually, so it might just be a "me" thing.
Overall, this was a great, easy, and light read that I was able to conquer in a very short amount of time. I was entertain and enjoyed, and I only have a very small and minor complaint. It is definitely worth checking out!
More of my reviews can be found @ Caught Reading Redheaded
September 27, 2017
Hart Highgate is a rogue who loves his bachelor ways. Saved from the parson's trap years before before, he despises manipulative women above all else. Now 29, he has finally decided it was time for him to settle down and take a wife, although he goes about it like he's walking to the guillotine. When his sister asks him to help her friend Meg Timmons garner the interest of a gentleman, he reluctantly agrees. He's known Meg his entire life--she is shy, kind and the ton's biggest wallflower. A little attention from Hart and his friends will definitely help her chances to attract a husband.
I've enjoyed Ms. Bowman's previous books and this one was sweet, although not my favorite. There was a lot of misunderstandings on both Hart's and Meg's parts. At one point, I just wanted Meg to finally shout out that she's loved him since she was 16, but then there wouldn't be a story. I thought Hart's character was a bit over the top when he thinks Meg deceived him especially since he's known her for years. He didn't stop to think things may not be what they seemed. He was quite cruel at one point and it made him unlikeable for me. As with all of Ms. Bowman's books, true love finally shines through. A definite read for fans of Regency romance.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I've enjoyed Ms. Bowman's previous books and this one was sweet, although not my favorite. There was a lot of misunderstandings on both Hart's and Meg's parts. At one point, I just wanted Meg to finally shout out that she's loved him since she was 16, but then there wouldn't be a story. I thought Hart's character was a bit over the top when he thinks Meg deceived him especially since he's known her for years. He didn't stop to think things may not be what they seemed. He was quite cruel at one point and it made him unlikeable for me. As with all of Ms. Bowman's books, true love finally shines through. A definite read for fans of Regency romance.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 31, 2017
Meg had always been in love with her best friend’s brother, Hart, but to him, she’s only ever been his sister’s friend and nothing more. Once she realizes Hart has decided it’s time to find a wife, Meg enlists the assistance of one of her friends to get him to notice her. Unfortunately what Meg didn’t account for was that every scheme they planned would go awry, even the one that got her what she wanted.
I thought it was a nice read overall. Meg is a sweet girl (yes, girl and she behaves as such) that has to put up with a horrible mother, a gambling father, and a close-to-destitution situation. Hart doesn’t want to marry but believes it’s time to do so, even if his parents are the worst example of what a marriage should be, and his relationship with them was nowhere better than Meg’s.
The thing is I just was not able to understand Meg’s infatuation for Hart. There is even a moment when someone asks her why she wants to marry him and she answers because of what he did in the past and I was actually expecting something deeper, with more resonance. They do get to know each other and they become friends but to me it was like she was chasing him for no good reason, at least not until he grows and that was close to the end. I also think I would have liked it more if Hart would have declared his love at a better time and not after he received an ultimatum and after being told so by everyone.
Like I said not bad but not my favorite either. 2.75 stars rounded to 3.
** I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
I thought it was a nice read overall. Meg is a sweet girl (yes, girl and she behaves as such) that has to put up with a horrible mother, a gambling father, and a close-to-destitution situation. Hart doesn’t want to marry but believes it’s time to do so, even if his parents are the worst example of what a marriage should be, and his relationship with them was nowhere better than Meg’s.
The thing is I just was not able to understand Meg’s infatuation for Hart. There is even a moment when someone asks her why she wants to marry him and she answers because of what he did in the past and I was actually expecting something deeper, with more resonance. They do get to know each other and they become friends but to me it was like she was chasing him for no good reason, at least not until he grows and that was close to the end. I also think I would have liked it more if Hart would have declared his love at a better time and not after he received an ultimatum and after being told so by everyone.
Like I said not bad but not my favorite either. 2.75 stars rounded to 3.
** I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
October 31, 2017
I enjoyed this book. It is not often that I read historical romances anymore. Not because I don't like this genre as I used to read them all the time. With this book, I liked how I was easily able to form a connection with the characters and story. Meg is not the shy wallflower that you might expect from these types of books. She does not need a hero like Hart to save her. Yet, she is not so strong that she is immune to Hart's charms. Although, when it came to Hart, I like that he was not ignorant or pompous. He was kind.
However, Meg and Hart were not the only stars of this book. Hart's younger, sister, Sarah and Duchess Lucy Hunt were great as well. They helped provide entertainment. Lucy being older spoke her mind. She seemed to be not cut from the same cloth as the rest of high society. Sarah is Meg's best friend and confidant.
Than there is the chemistry between Meg and Hart. It was there and it was real. I like that they shared a history together of having kissed before that no one else knew about. They made a good couple. Easy reading.
However, Meg and Hart were not the only stars of this book. Hart's younger, sister, Sarah and Duchess Lucy Hunt were great as well. They helped provide entertainment. Lucy being older spoke her mind. She seemed to be not cut from the same cloth as the rest of high society. Sarah is Meg's best friend and confidant.
Than there is the chemistry between Meg and Hart. It was there and it was real. I like that they shared a history together of having kissed before that no one else knew about. They made a good couple. Easy reading.
Want to read
August 10, 2017
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