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The 1797 Club #1
The Daring Duke
The first book of the popular 1797 Club series from USA Today Bestselling author Jess Michaels. The wild and charismatic Duke of Abernathe is the kind of friend anyone would wish to have. He even formed the 1797 Club, consisting of ten men who would all be dukes. But he has full-throatedly declared he will never marry and no one understands why.But Miss Emma Liston doesn’t care why. A longtime wallflower with an absentee father who is a scandal waiting to happen, she needs to marry. Now. She decides to take a wild chance and ask the help of her friend Meg’s brother James. She asks him to pretend he’s interested in her just long enough to gain the attention of others. He agrees but is quickly taken aback by how easy everything is with Emma.When her father returns, threatening her with a terrible future, their courtship swiftly becomes all too real. Will James ever reveal the true man beneath the outer shell? And can Emma discover her own worthiness before it’s too late? Full-Length (70,000 words)Heat SizzlingThis book is the first in The 1797 Club series.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2017
354 people are currently reading
978 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
126 books1,571 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
July 9, 2019
4 1/2 stars
Jess Michaels is one of my favorite HR authors, and this first book in her most recent series is a strong start to a promising set of new regency historical romances.
As a youth, James was belittled, berated, and abused by his father (the Duke of Abernathe, one of the most well-known and influential dukedoms) who constantly informed him that he was a poor excuse for an heir. James' older brother from his father's first marriage was killed in an accident; the duke's first wife perished in childbirth, and so in order to obtain a new heir, the duke married James' mother. James' father cared nothing for his second wife, which led to her self-medicating her depression with excessive drinking. When James is mocked and slapped in front of his best friends (2 classmates who wae also future dukes), the three of them devise a plan to form a group intended to support one another: The 1797 Club. This club had a very exclusive membership as it consisted entirely of young dukes-to-be and is named for its year of founding when they were all adolescents. Because of his (now late) father's cruelty, James (the unofficial leader of the club) has vowed never to marry or produce an heir to spite his father's "the line must continue at any cost" philosophy, and he certainly doesn't believe in love from the example he had in his parents.
Emma Liston is the daughter of the 3rd son of a Viscount who was essentially disowned by his titled family because of his excesses (with respect to gambling and women) as well as because he is constantly inviting scandal. He has a tendency to disappear for months, and even up to years, at a time only to resurface to complicate and disrupt hers and her mother's lives. As she is barely considered part of English society, and thus has garnered little interest by possible suitors, she is entering her 4th season at the insistence by her mother to make a good match to give them financial security. Emma is happy to remain single and be categorized as a bluestocking wallflower, but she feels she must do her duty and find a suitable gentleman to wed. While attending a ball, Meg (James' younger sister) strikes up a conversation with Emma when Meg's mother begins to make a drunken scene in the middle of the soiree. Thinking on her feet, Emma jumps in to assist Meg with the duchess and helps avoid scandal. Meg convinces James to at least dance with Emma to garner some interest from other men for her as he is the most powerful duke who sets the fashion and trends. James reluctantly agrees, but he soon finds himself fascinated by Emma's straightforward manner and lack of interest in capturing his attention which is the complete opposite of how all other available females behave in his presence. James initially chalks it up to the novelty, but he can't seem to get Emma out of his mind and soon finds himself making a deal to help her that he may not be able to uphold.
What I liked:
--- Very good plot; even though the "I will pretend to like you so others will notice you" bit has been well-tread, this one had a fresh take and was more engaging
--- The characters were flawed by likeable
--- Good development of other characters that sets up the subsequent installments of the 1797 Club
What I didn't like as much:
--- While there was some foreplay stuff going on, there was only 1 time that they got together in the book; I prefer more steam, so that aspect fell short for me
--- James came across as a little full of himself at times, but I think it was mostly an overcompensation to hide the insecurities his father planted in him
Overall, a really good read that hooks the reader's interest to continue on in the series.
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Jess Michaels is one of my favorite HR authors, and this first book in her most recent series is a strong start to a promising set of new regency historical romances.
As a youth, James was belittled, berated, and abused by his father (the Duke of Abernathe, one of the most well-known and influential dukedoms) who constantly informed him that he was a poor excuse for an heir. James' older brother from his father's first marriage was killed in an accident; the duke's first wife perished in childbirth, and so in order to obtain a new heir, the duke married James' mother. James' father cared nothing for his second wife, which led to her self-medicating her depression with excessive drinking. When James is mocked and slapped in front of his best friends (2 classmates who wae also future dukes), the three of them devise a plan to form a group intended to support one another: The 1797 Club. This club had a very exclusive membership as it consisted entirely of young dukes-to-be and is named for its year of founding when they were all adolescents. Because of his (now late) father's cruelty, James (the unofficial leader of the club) has vowed never to marry or produce an heir to spite his father's "the line must continue at any cost" philosophy, and he certainly doesn't believe in love from the example he had in his parents.
Emma Liston is the daughter of the 3rd son of a Viscount who was essentially disowned by his titled family because of his excesses (with respect to gambling and women) as well as because he is constantly inviting scandal. He has a tendency to disappear for months, and even up to years, at a time only to resurface to complicate and disrupt hers and her mother's lives. As she is barely considered part of English society, and thus has garnered little interest by possible suitors, she is entering her 4th season at the insistence by her mother to make a good match to give them financial security. Emma is happy to remain single and be categorized as a bluestocking wallflower, but she feels she must do her duty and find a suitable gentleman to wed. While attending a ball, Meg (James' younger sister) strikes up a conversation with Emma when Meg's mother begins to make a drunken scene in the middle of the soiree. Thinking on her feet, Emma jumps in to assist Meg with the duchess and helps avoid scandal. Meg convinces James to at least dance with Emma to garner some interest from other men for her as he is the most powerful duke who sets the fashion and trends. James reluctantly agrees, but he soon finds himself fascinated by Emma's straightforward manner and lack of interest in capturing his attention which is the complete opposite of how all other available females behave in his presence. James initially chalks it up to the novelty, but he can't seem to get Emma out of his mind and soon finds himself making a deal to help her that he may not be able to uphold.
What I liked:
--- Very good plot; even though the "I will pretend to like you so others will notice you" bit has been well-tread, this one had a fresh take and was more engaging
--- The characters were flawed by likeable
--- Good development of other characters that sets up the subsequent installments of the 1797 Club
What I didn't like as much:
--- While there was some foreplay stuff going on, there was only 1 time that they got together in the book; I prefer more steam, so that aspect fell short for me
--- James came across as a little full of himself at times, but I think it was mostly an overcompensation to hide the insecurities his father planted in him
Overall, a really good read that hooks the reader's interest to continue on in the series.
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
January 14, 2022
This story was very sweet and the heroine was very strong in a quiet sort of way. I loved her. I am surprised by how much I enjoyed this sweet book and I will be reading more of this author for sure.
The plot of the second book was almost all played out for us, only our hero was too blind to see it.
The plot of the second book was almost all played out for us, only our hero was too blind to see it.
March 10, 2018
This was a colossal disappointment, and considering I was looking forward to reading the entire series, it has made me very nervous, as I suspect the other books will also fall flat for me. It started off well and I tried to hold off the little voice that started whispering in my ear that this was going downhill, but by the time I was about 60% done, I started skimming (something I rarely ever do).
The book is quite short, so things feel rushed, but that could have been overlooked. What I couldn't get over was how trite everything was; there was a lot of eye-rolling going on while I was reading and I didn't at all believe in any deeper connection between the hero and heroine ... don't even remember their names right now, whoops.
Were this categorized as romantica or erotica, it would seem more appropriate, frankly. Though there's not that much sex/almost-sex, they do get down and dirty quite quickly and a few times, which is why it feels to me like it's all just hormones, as opposed to anything else. Or what Michaels tries to spin for us: the fact that ::gasp:: she sees him as NO ONE ELSE does and senses the sadness in him ::dramatic sigh:: when he's able to pretend with everyone else. Yeah. Okay.
I'm shocked by all the high ratings. It seems to me that any experienced romance reader would not enjoy this, because it all feels so forced and fake; like a caricature of a romance book, rather than an actual romance book. Apparently I'm wrong though, because right now the average rating is 4.08 (!!!).
My personal opinion: skip it.
The book is quite short, so things feel rushed, but that could have been overlooked. What I couldn't get over was how trite everything was; there was a lot of eye-rolling going on while I was reading and I didn't at all believe in any deeper connection between the hero and heroine ... don't even remember their names right now, whoops.
Were this categorized as romantica or erotica, it would seem more appropriate, frankly. Though there's not that much sex/almost-sex, they do get down and dirty quite quickly and a few times, which is why it feels to me like it's all just hormones, as opposed to anything else. Or what Michaels tries to spin for us: the fact that ::gasp:: she sees him as NO ONE ELSE does and senses the sadness in him ::dramatic sigh:: when he's able to pretend with everyone else. Yeah. Okay.
I'm shocked by all the high ratings. It seems to me that any experienced romance reader would not enjoy this, because it all feels so forced and fake; like a caricature of a romance book, rather than an actual romance book. Apparently I'm wrong though, because right now the average rating is 4.08 (!!!).
My personal opinion: skip it.
May 18, 2017
Odlična. Dok čekam sledeću knjigu iz ovog serijala, moram da pročitam još neku Jessinu knjigu.
January 22, 2021
James Rylon, the Duke of Abernathe, is charming and well-liked, with many friends. He’s also the de facto leader of the 1797 Club, his closest friends, a group of ten men who banded together to help each other learn and cope with the responsibilities of running the dukedoms they would one day inherit. Despite his popularity and desirability among women, James is determined never to marry.
With a small dowry and a wastrel, absentee father, Emma Liston hasn’t exactly been a success on the marriage mart. She’s a wallflower but given that her father is a ticking timebomb of scandal, she needs to marry and soon. When she jokingly suggests a faux courtship to her new friend Meg’s brother, James, Emma is shocked when he agrees, citing the potential benefits to them both. James’ interest will help Emma attract more suitors and save James from the attentions of some of the more aggressive mamas. Only, everything with Emma is easy and feels right and James has no clue what to make of that or his increasingly possessive feelings towards her.
When her father returns at the most inopportune time, he presents Emma with a future that is most undesirable. The courtship between Emma and James is suddenly feeling very real for them both, but they each must put aside their own insecurities if a relationship between them is going to work.
This was a classic and well-executed example of the fake relationship trope. James was afraid of love because he hadn’t experienced much of it and both James and Emma harbored doubts about their own worthiness. Emma’s family was truly horrible, and I loved how James stepped in to defend her from their machinations. I thought Emma and James were very sweet together and I loved Meg as a supporting character, so I’m looking forward to listening to her story next.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
With a small dowry and a wastrel, absentee father, Emma Liston hasn’t exactly been a success on the marriage mart. She’s a wallflower but given that her father is a ticking timebomb of scandal, she needs to marry and soon. When she jokingly suggests a faux courtship to her new friend Meg’s brother, James, Emma is shocked when he agrees, citing the potential benefits to them both. James’ interest will help Emma attract more suitors and save James from the attentions of some of the more aggressive mamas. Only, everything with Emma is easy and feels right and James has no clue what to make of that or his increasingly possessive feelings towards her.
When her father returns at the most inopportune time, he presents Emma with a future that is most undesirable. The courtship between Emma and James is suddenly feeling very real for them both, but they each must put aside their own insecurities if a relationship between them is going to work.
This was a classic and well-executed example of the fake relationship trope. James was afraid of love because he hadn’t experienced much of it and both James and Emma harbored doubts about their own worthiness. Emma’s family was truly horrible, and I loved how James stepped in to defend her from their machinations. I thought Emma and James were very sweet together and I loved Meg as a supporting character, so I’m looking forward to listening to her story next.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
March 13, 2017
The Daring Duke 'The Daring Duke' by Jess Michaels is the First book in the "The 1797 Club". This is this is the story of James, Duke of Abernathe and Miss Emma Liston. The 1797 Club was started by James and his friends at school in the year 1797. The club is to help fellow Dukes grow into their position and to continue to help each other. They formed the Club after they saw how Jame's father treated and berated him. James didn't have a great childhood and has sworn off marrying anyone. Emma is a Wallflower who also has an upsetting family life. When Emma steps up to help Jame's sister Meg, it opens James up to helping Emma which started with a dance. Meg is taken with Emma and they become fast friends. Which has lead Meg to invite Emma to her house. This leads to James getting to know Emma better. This will supposedly be helping Emma gain attentions of single men with the end result that will lead to marriage. James is starting to find that Emma is different from other women he has known. But will he go forward with his growing feelings or live with the vow of never marring?This was another hot and exciting read by Ms. Michael's! "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1... https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68https:/... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
March 13, 2017
'The Daring Duke' by Jess Michaels is the First book in the "The 1797 Club". This is this is the story of James, Duke of Abernathe and Miss Emma Liston. The 1797 Club was started by James and his friends at school in the year 1797. The club is to help fellow Dukes grow into their position and to continue to help each other. They formed the Club after they saw how Jame's father treated and berated him. James didn't have a great childhood and has sworn off marrying anyone. Emma is a Wallflower who also has an upsetting family life. When Emma steps up to help Jame's sister Meg, it opens James up to helping Emma which started with a dance. Meg is taken with Emma and they become fast friends. Which has lead Meg to invite Emma to her house. This leads to James getting to know Emma better. This will supposedly be helping Emma gain attentions of single men with the end result that will lead to marriage. James is starting to find that Emma is different from other women he has known. But will he go forward with his growing feelings or live with the vow of never marring?
This was another hot and exciting read by Ms. Michael's!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
This was another hot and exciting read by Ms. Michael's!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
June 16, 2017
I really liked this short, romantic historical. We have an unlikely romance that develops between a duke with an abusive past and an insecure bluestocking. I liked that he saw value in her when others would have passed her by. It was not as erotic as some of Michaels' other books, but it was spicy enough. Overall, The Daring Duke was an enjoyable, fast read for me that commanded my attention. Good, solid historical romance.
April 25, 2020
How refreshing. A story where the couple actually communicates with each other and there’s not some long, overly drawn out complication based on a misunderstanding that could have been easily avoided if they’d just talked. So thank you for that.
Also, wallflower trope which is one of my favorites.
Also, wallflower trope which is one of my favorites.
December 1, 2020
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Recensione a cura di Saluinadia
Ho iniziato a dedicarmi alla lettura di romanzi appena terminata la scuola, avevo i miei 19 anni e da allora non ho mai mollato, tranne nei primi anni di vita di mio figlio, che richiedeva l’attenzione come ogni bambino, ma appena diventato autonomo ho ripreso senza più smettere e da allora sono passati anni.
Da quando ho iniziato, il mio genere preferito è stato lo storico, soprattutto quello con tinte hot, col passare del tempo è stato condiviso con altri generi, ma mai abbandonato.
Ora mi trovo qui ad esplicitare il mio pensiero su questa serie dal titolo curioso, ossia Il Club del 1797, per capire il perché di questo titolo bisogna entrare a farne parte, leggendone i romanzi. Il primo che dà inizio alla serie è Il Carisma del Duca, in questo caso facciamo la conoscenza di James Rylon, Duca di Abernathe.
Il suo è un fascino che nasconde sofferenza, dolore, ma che solo in pochi conoscono e che, tra il suo stesso stupore, imparerà a vederlo anche la signorina Emma Liston.
Il viso del duca era illuminato sia dalla luna che da alcune lanterne che guidavano il loro cammino. In quella tenue penombra, le venne da trattenere il respiro. Dio, quell’uomo era tutto angoli e curve. Tutto solida mascolinità e la faceva sentire piccola e morbida lì accanto a lui.
James si bloccò e un’espressione di disagio attraversò il suo bel viso. Fissò il cielo, dimentico di lei mentre rifletteva su qualunque problema avesse in mente. E di problemi ce n’erano. Li vedeva muoversi sul viso di James.
Emma Liston, invece, sa di non avere attrattive, di essere colei che fa da tappezzeria in un mare di sirene, ma si sa che non è il solo fascino a fare bella e desiderabile una donna, ci vuole anche tenacia, forza e voglia di rivalsa.
La signorina Liston era una timidona che ai balli faceva da tappezzeria. Sapeva solo questo di lei. I suoi capelli castani e la sua corporatura snella non erano il tipo di attributi fisici verso cui si rivolgeva normalmente quando aveva voglia di flirtare. Ma c’era una cosa in lei che l’aveva distinta. Aveva occhi verde-azzurro. Non aveva mai visto prima un colore simile. Occhi bellissimi
Più si avvicinava, più la osservava con attenzione. Non erano solo i suoi occhi ad essere belli. Aveva anche una bella bocca dalle labbra carnose. Labbra che si schiusero quando la giovane girò la testa e lo vide venire verso di lei.
James e Emma, due persone completamente differenti per nascita, per condizione sociale, ma così affini per la mancanza di amore da parte di chi li ha messi al mondo.
Il Carisma del Duca mette in evidenza anche l’importanza di avere attorno amici che riescono a consigliarti, a supportare le tue scelte e a porgerti quella mano che nel bisogno si cerca per non cadere.
Una storia che emoziona da subito, una storia che coinvolge e stravolge, una storia che ti fa battere forte il cuore e che non vedi l’ora di rileggere, una storia che ti porta al voler conoscere, presto, quelle seguenti che vedranno gli altri 9 protagonisti del club.
Una lettura fatta in un giorno perché scritta in modo scorrevole e fluido, con un linguaggio e dettagli sempre precisi e con la giusta dose di eros.
Io lo consiglio vivamente, intanto buona lettura, alla prossima.
Recensione a cura di Saluinadia
Ho iniziato a dedicarmi alla lettura di romanzi appena terminata la scuola, avevo i miei 19 anni e da allora non ho mai mollato, tranne nei primi anni di vita di mio figlio, che richiedeva l’attenzione come ogni bambino, ma appena diventato autonomo ho ripreso senza più smettere e da allora sono passati anni.
Da quando ho iniziato, il mio genere preferito è stato lo storico, soprattutto quello con tinte hot, col passare del tempo è stato condiviso con altri generi, ma mai abbandonato.
Ora mi trovo qui ad esplicitare il mio pensiero su questa serie dal titolo curioso, ossia Il Club del 1797, per capire il perché di questo titolo bisogna entrare a farne parte, leggendone i romanzi. Il primo che dà inizio alla serie è Il Carisma del Duca, in questo caso facciamo la conoscenza di James Rylon, Duca di Abernathe.
Il suo è un fascino che nasconde sofferenza, dolore, ma che solo in pochi conoscono e che, tra il suo stesso stupore, imparerà a vederlo anche la signorina Emma Liston.
Il viso del duca era illuminato sia dalla luna che da alcune lanterne che guidavano il loro cammino. In quella tenue penombra, le venne da trattenere il respiro. Dio, quell’uomo era tutto angoli e curve. Tutto solida mascolinità e la faceva sentire piccola e morbida lì accanto a lui.
James si bloccò e un’espressione di disagio attraversò il suo bel viso. Fissò il cielo, dimentico di lei mentre rifletteva su qualunque problema avesse in mente. E di problemi ce n’erano. Li vedeva muoversi sul viso di James.
Emma Liston, invece, sa di non avere attrattive, di essere colei che fa da tappezzeria in un mare di sirene, ma si sa che non è il solo fascino a fare bella e desiderabile una donna, ci vuole anche tenacia, forza e voglia di rivalsa.
La signorina Liston era una timidona che ai balli faceva da tappezzeria. Sapeva solo questo di lei. I suoi capelli castani e la sua corporatura snella non erano il tipo di attributi fisici verso cui si rivolgeva normalmente quando aveva voglia di flirtare. Ma c’era una cosa in lei che l’aveva distinta. Aveva occhi verde-azzurro. Non aveva mai visto prima un colore simile. Occhi bellissimi
Più si avvicinava, più la osservava con attenzione. Non erano solo i suoi occhi ad essere belli. Aveva anche una bella bocca dalle labbra carnose. Labbra che si schiusero quando la giovane girò la testa e lo vide venire verso di lei.
James e Emma, due persone completamente differenti per nascita, per condizione sociale, ma così affini per la mancanza di amore da parte di chi li ha messi al mondo.
Il Carisma del Duca mette in evidenza anche l’importanza di avere attorno amici che riescono a consigliarti, a supportare le tue scelte e a porgerti quella mano che nel bisogno si cerca per non cadere.
Una storia che emoziona da subito, una storia che coinvolge e stravolge, una storia che ti fa battere forte il cuore e che non vedi l’ora di rileggere, una storia che ti porta al voler conoscere, presto, quelle seguenti che vedranno gli altri 9 protagonisti del club.
Una lettura fatta in un giorno perché scritta in modo scorrevole e fluido, con un linguaggio e dettagli sempre precisi e con la giusta dose di eros.
Io lo consiglio vivamente, intanto buona lettura, alla prossima.
March 14, 2017
Jess Michaels is an author I have been wanting to read for a while now. I’ve heard good things about her other series, so when I saw this book on netgalley I requested it. Because it is the first book in what will be a 10 book series, I knew I wouldn’t be missing out on any backstory or character nuance and looked forward to getting in on the ground floor, as it were. I requested and received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
As the two star rating indicates, this book was ok. For the most part, it reminded me of middle school with all Emma’s worries about being popular vs a wallflower, her worries about not being on James’s same social level, and for all the times she needed reassuring that people genuinely liked her. I did not find that charming or endearing and really wanted to shake some self-esteem into her. Also, she claims to be a bluestocking, but never really shares how – no reading or science hobbies were mentioned. She’s just sort of there. As for James, he must be the most stubbornly obtuse man in creation. He can’t see that his sister and Simon are in love, that Graham doesn’t want to marry Meg, that James, himself, is in love with Emma. He’s supposed to be the leader of this club, but he really doesn’t act like the bon vivant he’s supposed to be. Instead, I felt like we had the same conversations – between Emma and Meg, Emma and her mother, James and Emma – repeatedly. Which led to pacing problems and I wound up putting this book down for a few days, reluctant to pick it back up for fear of more of the same.
Even the setting gave me trouble. The bulk of the story is set during a house party, but almost every event mentioned during the party was a ball. There were no other settings or amusements for James and Emma to find mischief or love together. They were always dancing when there could have been picnics, games, evenings in a salon, musicals, plays, or horseback rides on the grounds. That is a HUGE missed opportunity!
Don’t get me wrong, I really like the idea of a generation of dukes all coming of age and into their titles at the same time. Of them being school friends and helping each other through life’s ups and downs. So, in general, I have hope that the series will improve with each book and look forward to reading Meg and Simon’s story next.
As the two star rating indicates, this book was ok. For the most part, it reminded me of middle school with all Emma’s worries about being popular vs a wallflower, her worries about not being on James’s same social level, and for all the times she needed reassuring that people genuinely liked her. I did not find that charming or endearing and really wanted to shake some self-esteem into her. Also, she claims to be a bluestocking, but never really shares how – no reading or science hobbies were mentioned. She’s just sort of there. As for James, he must be the most stubbornly obtuse man in creation. He can’t see that his sister and Simon are in love, that Graham doesn’t want to marry Meg, that James, himself, is in love with Emma. He’s supposed to be the leader of this club, but he really doesn’t act like the bon vivant he’s supposed to be. Instead, I felt like we had the same conversations – between Emma and Meg, Emma and her mother, James and Emma – repeatedly. Which led to pacing problems and I wound up putting this book down for a few days, reluctant to pick it back up for fear of more of the same.
Even the setting gave me trouble. The bulk of the story is set during a house party, but almost every event mentioned during the party was a ball. There were no other settings or amusements for James and Emma to find mischief or love together. They were always dancing when there could have been picnics, games, evenings in a salon, musicals, plays, or horseback rides on the grounds. That is a HUGE missed opportunity!
Don’t get me wrong, I really like the idea of a generation of dukes all coming of age and into their titles at the same time. Of them being school friends and helping each other through life’s ups and downs. So, in general, I have hope that the series will improve with each book and look forward to reading Meg and Simon’s story next.
July 13, 2021
3 stars.
Here we have the story of yet another man who’s been totally fucked up by his father. The backstory of the hero and his subsequent reaction is similar to that of the first Bridgerton book, where the hero is treated like shit by his father and decides never to marry in order to punish his dead sire.
So long story short, the hero meets the heroine because his sister befriends her. He decides to help her get married to any other man by pretending to court her so other men will look more favorably upon her (see what I’m saying about this being similar to “The Duke and I”?) The hero and heroine start to catch feelings for each other pretty quickly but fight them because the hero WILL NEVER MARRY!!!! He would rather watch her marry OM even if it kills him a little on the inside. Anyways, he’s all set to let her do that, except something happens that he can’t abide and he decides to do the noble thing and sacrifice himself at the alter of marriage. Ofc this is a romance so he realizes his feelings and they all live HEA.
The story overall fell a little flat for me. It was a bit too predictable and the romance between the hero & heroine felt a bit forced. I really wanted to love this book, but it didn’t quite deliver the romance I wanted.
Safety is good for me, hero was def a ladies man, but I didn’t get the impression that he was a total manwhore. No one that he has been with is ever introduced in the book. No others for either during the book, virgin heroine. There’s some mild OM drama and mild OW drama in the form of a woman who offers herself to the hero but he refuses her. The heroine sees and assumes the worst.
Here we have the story of yet another man who’s been totally fucked up by his father. The backstory of the hero and his subsequent reaction is similar to that of the first Bridgerton book, where the hero is treated like shit by his father and decides never to marry in order to punish his dead sire.
So long story short, the hero meets the heroine because his sister befriends her. He decides to help her get married to any other man by pretending to court her so other men will look more favorably upon her (see what I’m saying about this being similar to “The Duke and I”?) The hero and heroine start to catch feelings for each other pretty quickly but fight them because the hero WILL NEVER MARRY!!!! He would rather watch her marry OM even if it kills him a little on the inside. Anyways, he’s all set to let her do that, except something happens that he can’t abide and he decides to do the noble thing and sacrifice himself at the alter of marriage. Ofc this is a romance so he realizes his feelings and they all live HEA.
The story overall fell a little flat for me. It was a bit too predictable and the romance between the hero & heroine felt a bit forced. I really wanted to love this book, but it didn’t quite deliver the romance I wanted.
Safety is good for me, hero was def a ladies man, but I didn’t get the impression that he was a total manwhore. No one that he has been with is ever introduced in the book. No others for either during the book, virgin heroine. There’s some mild OM drama and mild OW drama in the form of a woman who offers herself to the hero but he refuses her. The heroine sees and assumes the worst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2021
4-
La trama non è delle più originali ma la scrittura fluida lo rende una piacevole lettura
La trama non è delle più originali ma la scrittura fluida lo rende una piacevole lettura
March 7, 2017
This new series has started off with a bang In the form of James and Emma. Since Jess Michaels announced that she was making this series, I like a lot of her readers was very excited to read the 1797 Club. This has the Michaels’ magical touch that we have come to know and love. The many devastating Duke’s that we have in attendance in this series is astounding , and if James is anything to go by we are going to be losing our heart to these aristocratic rogues over and over again......
Full review at
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
Full review at
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
September 25, 2020
Great read! Emma and James had chemistry in and out of the study/office.
I loved how strong Emma was through everything that she had to go through. I couldn't even imagine being a woman in those times. I wanted to slap her mother, and knock her father out.
James came through in the end. I just knew something was going to happen to lead to this, I just hadn't factored all the people involved in the equation.
Now I'm wondering what's going on with Meg, Simon, and Graham.
I loved how strong Emma was through everything that she had to go through. I couldn't even imagine being a woman in those times. I wanted to slap her mother, and knock her father out.
James came through in the end. I just knew something was going to happen to lead to this, I just hadn't factored all the people involved in the equation.
Now I'm wondering what's going on with Meg, Simon, and Graham.
August 22, 2017
Another great read by Jess Michaels. Emma may be one of the sweetest heroines I have had the pleasure to read about. James was also a wonderful hero...strong but also vulnerable. They are such a lovely couple.
March 20, 2017
Jess Michaels just gets better and better! I cannot wait for the next book in June.
March 14, 2017
To marry--or not!
It's all here. The band of friends who have each other's back from their school days at Braxton Academy. They form the 1797 club, for the heirs of Dukes. That band of brothers' support carries over into their futures as peers and leaders of the land. A great premise for a series. The group is led by the gorgeous 'golden' James, the Duke of Abernathe.
Then there's the wall flower, the intellectual young woman, Miss Emma Liston, whose life has heavy secrets. Emma catches the interest of the Duke of Abenathe with her discrete interaction with his sister and mother in a difficult situation.
James is determined not to marry, to have his name die out. Emma is being pushed into marry by her mother, no matter the type of man as long as he can provide. What starts as a glancing comment to a solution to both their problems ends up taking root.
Emma's father's gambling habits lead to situations we've seen before. Here it is played out with somewhat less effect.
There is so much hinted at and happening in this novel, that the tension between James and Emma, the heated exchanges of more than one sort, became somewhat swamped. Emma is the more interesting of the two. James is somewhat wooden, but then with his upbringing it's no wonder.
I look forward to seeing how the rest of the series develops.
A NetGalley ARC
It's all here. The band of friends who have each other's back from their school days at Braxton Academy. They form the 1797 club, for the heirs of Dukes. That band of brothers' support carries over into their futures as peers and leaders of the land. A great premise for a series. The group is led by the gorgeous 'golden' James, the Duke of Abernathe.
Then there's the wall flower, the intellectual young woman, Miss Emma Liston, whose life has heavy secrets. Emma catches the interest of the Duke of Abenathe with her discrete interaction with his sister and mother in a difficult situation.
James is determined not to marry, to have his name die out. Emma is being pushed into marry by her mother, no matter the type of man as long as he can provide. What starts as a glancing comment to a solution to both their problems ends up taking root.
Emma's father's gambling habits lead to situations we've seen before. Here it is played out with somewhat less effect.
There is so much hinted at and happening in this novel, that the tension between James and Emma, the heated exchanges of more than one sort, became somewhat swamped. Emma is the more interesting of the two. James is somewhat wooden, but then with his upbringing it's no wonder.
I look forward to seeing how the rest of the series develops.
A NetGalley ARC
May 16, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Jess has done it again.
It’s taken me a while to begin reading this series, now I wonder why I waited .
Brilliant, addictive, sensitive, enthralling, romantic.
I could go on but nothing seems to describe it adequately.
Perfect is the nearest .
And so many more to come , I can hardly wait .
💋💋
Jess has done it again.
It’s taken me a while to begin reading this series, now I wonder why I waited .
Brilliant, addictive, sensitive, enthralling, romantic.
I could go on but nothing seems to describe it adequately.
Perfect is the nearest .
And so many more to come , I can hardly wait .
November 14, 2020
Voto: 3.5
Per leggere la recensione: https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
Per leggere la recensione: https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
March 12, 2022
3,5⭐️
Storia carina, anche se non molto originale
Storia carina, anche se non molto originale
March 22, 2017
The next one sounds like it's my catnip I can't wait hehe
December 28, 2020
qui la mia recensione https://booksdreamer.blogspot.com/202...
July 16, 2017
Love historicals? Well, you probably know that I do! I recently read The Daring Duke, the first in its series, and I have to say, I loved it! Historicals are easy for me to love, but this was different from a lot of historicals I've read.
I like a heroine who is a wallflower, as it's not only the outgoing, sassy ladies who deserved a HEA. And I really loved Emma. She came from such appalling parents and yet had integrity and goodness. She was content to be herself and live more simply if necessary instead of turning herself into a gold digger.
Read more http://devastatingreads.blogspot.ca/2...
I like a heroine who is a wallflower, as it's not only the outgoing, sassy ladies who deserved a HEA. And I really loved Emma. She came from such appalling parents and yet had integrity and goodness. She was content to be herself and live more simply if necessary instead of turning herself into a gold digger.
Read more http://devastatingreads.blogspot.ca/2...
February 22, 2017
My first book by this author, I found the writing initially a bit choppy and inconsistent, at times somewhat staccato-like in the way the characters spat out words and performed actions without being smoothed out by subtle nuances and mannerisms, and then interspersed with fairly astute observations and descriptions. The protagonists were able to elicit my sympathy, both in their own ways trying to rise above the bad behaviours of their parents and yet both scarred by their pasts enough to influence their outlooks on their futures. In particular, James, the Duke of Abernathe, in an affecting moment, went from an initially insecure young boy overwhelmed by his destined ducal responsibilities and intimidated by his brute of a father to proudly wield his title with devastating self-possession and sense of power, fully grown into his role as one of the most powerful peers in the country.
“I’m the Duke of Abernathe,” James said softly. “With more power and money and influence than the two of you sorry lot put together. I am the Duke of Abernathe and I can do whatever the bloody hell I want. I’m marrying Emma Liston and there is nothing you can do about it.”
Way to go, Your Grace!!
Overall, the booked ended up being much better than the beginning, both characters more complete and stronger and the writing too grew in strength and calibre.
He had said she was his. And she was. But he wasn’t hers. And she feared he might never be.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
“I’m the Duke of Abernathe,” James said softly. “With more power and money and influence than the two of you sorry lot put together. I am the Duke of Abernathe and I can do whatever the bloody hell I want. I’m marrying Emma Liston and there is nothing you can do about it.”
Way to go, Your Grace!!
Overall, the booked ended up being much better than the beginning, both characters more complete and stronger and the writing too grew in strength and calibre.
He had said she was his. And she was. But he wasn’t hers. And she feared he might never be.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
November 26, 2017
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews (Blog post MAY have additional content such as playlists, interviews, giveaways, etc).
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? A group of boys in line to become dukes form a club they call “The 1797 Club” in order to help each other navigate the world that they’ll soon be a part of. As adults they’ve become more like brothers and their unofficial leader James, The Duke of Abernathe has sworn never to marry. He's making good on his promise until he meets wallflower Emma Liston. When James finds out that Emma needs to marry and fast, he agrees to a pretend courtship to improve her chances of attracting suitors. Except it's too easy for James and Emma to be together and when her scandalous father reappears with news for Emma, James quickly steps in to save her. By marrying her.
Describe the hero in five words: Kind. Intelligent. Vulnerable. Funny. Loyal.
Did you like him? I fell in love with him.
Why? James was a powerful man, a duke but throughout the entire story I saw him as this kind, patient, passionate man who was more than a little bewildered by his attraction to Emma. He was genuinely shocked and unsure of himself when it came to her and that vulnerability was endearing to me. He didn’t act like the world revolved around him, he was more of a reluctant duke and he truly cared for those in his inner circle. I loved the glimpses of his relationship with the other members of the 1797 Club because it showed just how much these men respect and care for each other. However it was James’ relationship with his sister that really got me right in the heart. He adores his sister Meg and would do anything for her and that’s clear in the way the two interact. They’re true siblings, teasing and supporting each other. My heart ached for James and how he was forced to grow up but in some ways it made him into such a caretaker of those too weak to defend themselves. I was in love from the moment I saw how he was with his sister and then with Emma.
Describe the heroine in five words: Observant. Caring. Intelligent. Funny. Honest.
Did you like her? Yes. She’s best friend material.
Why? Despite Emma’s low view of her place in society, she’s a doll. She was kind and courteous even when people didn’t deserve it and she had a different kind of strength in her that came from having lived her life waiting for the other shoe to drop so to speak. I loved her pragmatic attitude but at the same time I loved watching Emma become more hopeful and trusting when it came to James and Meg. Emma was such a sweet and likable character that even I wanted to jump into the book and defend her whenever she was treated badly. I hardly ever feel like that about a character! Emma definitely had the most growth in the book, going from someone who didn’t dream of much happiness to someone who fought for the dreams she was starting to have and who started to stand up for herself because she her own worth. I love characters like that, especially female ones.
How convincing were the main characters as a couple? Jess Michaels brought the heat and sexual tension to the relationship but an added bonus was the deep friendship that James and Emma built along the way. They were both so honest with each other and it definitely influenced the direction and tone of their relationship in the best way, they saw through the other’s pretenses as well which definitely deepened their strong connection but their attraction to one another was what was surprising to both of them. I loved watching James and Emma navigate the unexpected obstacles that their attraction brought. Their frustrations, their self torment, all
Is there a “Scooby Gang” worth mentioning? With ten dukes being the focus of the series some or all of them were bound to make appearances. The 1797 Club isn’t a typical men’s club like had thought. These men have a great affection for each other beyond the regular shoulder slapping, drink guzzling, womanizing relationship that usually defines these kinds of clubs. To put it in more blunt terms, it’s one big bromance going on and I loved it. These men are bonded through emotional struggles, not physical ones and that did change the dynamic of their friendships. James’ closest friends are fun but they also knew when to let their guards down and be there for James. I’m dying to get to know all of them but it was Simon and Baldwin who drew my attention the most. Simon seemed to be hiding something having to do with James’ sister Meg whom James betrothed to his other friend Graham. And Baldwin had a moment with James where he offers some advice and it was a personal piece of advice that showed how much these men trust one another. The only supporting character I just couldn’t stand was Emma’s mother. I can’t stand a scheming, nagging, mother who expects to be taken care of. She drove me nuts!
How “Lost” did you get in the story? Oh man, it didn’t take me long to become engrossed in James and Emma’s romance. But it wasn’t just the romance though! There’s an entire cast that is both mysterious and engaging. Jess Michaels has something special here with her group of dukes who are more family to each other than anyone else. I loved the dynamics between the men and though all of the club members have yet to be introduced, if James is any indication on how these men are I just know that this is going to be one heck of a series.
Click It or Skip It? Click It and prepare to fall in love with James and his fellow club members!
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? A group of boys in line to become dukes form a club they call “The 1797 Club” in order to help each other navigate the world that they’ll soon be a part of. As adults they’ve become more like brothers and their unofficial leader James, The Duke of Abernathe has sworn never to marry. He's making good on his promise until he meets wallflower Emma Liston. When James finds out that Emma needs to marry and fast, he agrees to a pretend courtship to improve her chances of attracting suitors. Except it's too easy for James and Emma to be together and when her scandalous father reappears with news for Emma, James quickly steps in to save her. By marrying her.
Describe the hero in five words: Kind. Intelligent. Vulnerable. Funny. Loyal.
Did you like him? I fell in love with him.
Why? James was a powerful man, a duke but throughout the entire story I saw him as this kind, patient, passionate man who was more than a little bewildered by his attraction to Emma. He was genuinely shocked and unsure of himself when it came to her and that vulnerability was endearing to me. He didn’t act like the world revolved around him, he was more of a reluctant duke and he truly cared for those in his inner circle. I loved the glimpses of his relationship with the other members of the 1797 Club because it showed just how much these men respect and care for each other. However it was James’ relationship with his sister that really got me right in the heart. He adores his sister Meg and would do anything for her and that’s clear in the way the two interact. They’re true siblings, teasing and supporting each other. My heart ached for James and how he was forced to grow up but in some ways it made him into such a caretaker of those too weak to defend themselves. I was in love from the moment I saw how he was with his sister and then with Emma.
Describe the heroine in five words: Observant. Caring. Intelligent. Funny. Honest.
Did you like her? Yes. She’s best friend material.
Why? Despite Emma’s low view of her place in society, she’s a doll. She was kind and courteous even when people didn’t deserve it and she had a different kind of strength in her that came from having lived her life waiting for the other shoe to drop so to speak. I loved her pragmatic attitude but at the same time I loved watching Emma become more hopeful and trusting when it came to James and Meg. Emma was such a sweet and likable character that even I wanted to jump into the book and defend her whenever she was treated badly. I hardly ever feel like that about a character! Emma definitely had the most growth in the book, going from someone who didn’t dream of much happiness to someone who fought for the dreams she was starting to have and who started to stand up for herself because she her own worth. I love characters like that, especially female ones.
How convincing were the main characters as a couple? Jess Michaels brought the heat and sexual tension to the relationship but an added bonus was the deep friendship that James and Emma built along the way. They were both so honest with each other and it definitely influenced the direction and tone of their relationship in the best way, they saw through the other’s pretenses as well which definitely deepened their strong connection but their attraction to one another was what was surprising to both of them. I loved watching James and Emma navigate the unexpected obstacles that their attraction brought. Their frustrations, their self torment, all
Is there a “Scooby Gang” worth mentioning? With ten dukes being the focus of the series some or all of them were bound to make appearances. The 1797 Club isn’t a typical men’s club like had thought. These men have a great affection for each other beyond the regular shoulder slapping, drink guzzling, womanizing relationship that usually defines these kinds of clubs. To put it in more blunt terms, it’s one big bromance going on and I loved it. These men are bonded through emotional struggles, not physical ones and that did change the dynamic of their friendships. James’ closest friends are fun but they also knew when to let their guards down and be there for James. I’m dying to get to know all of them but it was Simon and Baldwin who drew my attention the most. Simon seemed to be hiding something having to do with James’ sister Meg whom James betrothed to his other friend Graham. And Baldwin had a moment with James where he offers some advice and it was a personal piece of advice that showed how much these men trust one another. The only supporting character I just couldn’t stand was Emma’s mother. I can’t stand a scheming, nagging, mother who expects to be taken care of. She drove me nuts!
How “Lost” did you get in the story? Oh man, it didn’t take me long to become engrossed in James and Emma’s romance. But it wasn’t just the romance though! There’s an entire cast that is both mysterious and engaging. Jess Michaels has something special here with her group of dukes who are more family to each other than anyone else. I loved the dynamics between the men and though all of the club members have yet to be introduced, if James is any indication on how these men are I just know that this is going to be one heck of a series.
Click It or Skip It? Click It and prepare to fall in love with James and his fellow club members!
February 10, 2021
https://emozionidicarta2020.blogspot....
Sulle sponde di un fiume nel 1797 James, insieme ai suoi amici Simon e Graham, fondano "Il Club del 1797" composto da dieci futuri Duchi.
Tredici anni dopo il Duca di Abernathe, James Rylon, (sarà lui il primo protagonista di questa serie) è diventato un uomo molto rispettato e benvoluto da tutti, poco incline al matrimonio proprio perché nella sua vita non ha mai conosciuto l'amore, disprezzato dal padre e indifferente alla madre, che per la maggior parte del tempo stava attaccata alla bottiglia, l'unica persona a cui è legato, è la sorella minore e i suoi amici.
Il Duca è un uomo bello, popolare e carismatico, chiunque seguiva la sua scia senza che lui se ne accorgesse, ma Emma riusciva a scorgere nei suoi occhi la tristezza e la sofferenza che con tanta fatica celava agli occhi degli altri.
"Voleva scappare da lei, ma una parte altrettanto forte di lui voleva restare. Lo stava guardando dentro, nel profondo della sua anima, e c’era una piccola parte di lui che voleva che lei vedesse la verità. Come se volesse che lei facesse esattamente ciò che lui affermava di non desiderare.
Salvarlo."
Emma Liston è una zitella che ha bisogno di trovare marito al più presto, se vuole evitate che il padre faccia scoppiare un altro scandalo, e per una serie di circostanze si ritrova a fare un patto con il fratello della sua migliore amica Meg, James, Duca di Abernathe.
«Dubito che ci sia una donna in questa stanza che possa indurmi ad amare, Northfield» ridacchiò. «Dovrebbe essere davvero straordinaria.»
James si fingerà interessato a lei per attirare l'interesse di altri gentiluomini e poter consentire ad Emma di trovare finalmente un marito, e nello stesso tempo allontanare possibili nobildonne interessate a lui. Quello che comincia come finzione diventerà ben presto molto di più.
"Emma si ritrovò ad alzare il mento, si scoprì a chiudere gli occhi come se fosse spinta a farlo da un antico istinto. E poi la bocca di James sfiorò la sua e ogni pensiero, ogni esitazione, ogni altra cosa al mondo, le svanì dalla mente."
Emma era diversa da tutte le altre dame che cercavano solo un buon pretesto per accalappiarlo, lei era schietta e sincera e James dal loro primo incontro non faceva che pensare a lei, al suo sorriso, alle sue labbra che avrebbe solo voluto baciare senza smettere mai.
Una vera e propria atmosfera che non può mancare in un Historical.
Balli sfarzosi, picnic, intrighi di corte, passione travolgente e un pizzico di piccante che non guasta mai in un buon libro. Ho apprezzato molto il cameratismo che si percepisce tra tutti i membri del Club 1797.
Sulle sponde di un fiume nel 1797 James, insieme ai suoi amici Simon e Graham, fondano "Il Club del 1797" composto da dieci futuri Duchi.
Tredici anni dopo il Duca di Abernathe, James Rylon, (sarà lui il primo protagonista di questa serie) è diventato un uomo molto rispettato e benvoluto da tutti, poco incline al matrimonio proprio perché nella sua vita non ha mai conosciuto l'amore, disprezzato dal padre e indifferente alla madre, che per la maggior parte del tempo stava attaccata alla bottiglia, l'unica persona a cui è legato, è la sorella minore e i suoi amici.
Il Duca è un uomo bello, popolare e carismatico, chiunque seguiva la sua scia senza che lui se ne accorgesse, ma Emma riusciva a scorgere nei suoi occhi la tristezza e la sofferenza che con tanta fatica celava agli occhi degli altri.
"Voleva scappare da lei, ma una parte altrettanto forte di lui voleva restare. Lo stava guardando dentro, nel profondo della sua anima, e c’era una piccola parte di lui che voleva che lei vedesse la verità. Come se volesse che lei facesse esattamente ciò che lui affermava di non desiderare.
Salvarlo."
Emma Liston è una zitella che ha bisogno di trovare marito al più presto, se vuole evitate che il padre faccia scoppiare un altro scandalo, e per una serie di circostanze si ritrova a fare un patto con il fratello della sua migliore amica Meg, James, Duca di Abernathe.
«Dubito che ci sia una donna in questa stanza che possa indurmi ad amare, Northfield» ridacchiò. «Dovrebbe essere davvero straordinaria.»
James si fingerà interessato a lei per attirare l'interesse di altri gentiluomini e poter consentire ad Emma di trovare finalmente un marito, e nello stesso tempo allontanare possibili nobildonne interessate a lui. Quello che comincia come finzione diventerà ben presto molto di più.
"Emma si ritrovò ad alzare il mento, si scoprì a chiudere gli occhi come se fosse spinta a farlo da un antico istinto. E poi la bocca di James sfiorò la sua e ogni pensiero, ogni esitazione, ogni altra cosa al mondo, le svanì dalla mente."
Emma era diversa da tutte le altre dame che cercavano solo un buon pretesto per accalappiarlo, lei era schietta e sincera e James dal loro primo incontro non faceva che pensare a lei, al suo sorriso, alle sue labbra che avrebbe solo voluto baciare senza smettere mai.
Una vera e propria atmosfera che non può mancare in un Historical.
Balli sfarzosi, picnic, intrighi di corte, passione travolgente e un pizzico di piccante che non guasta mai in un buon libro. Ho apprezzato molto il cameratismo che si percepisce tra tutti i membri del Club 1797.
March 13, 2017
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: http://wp.me/p3QRh4-vQ
James Rylon, Duke of Abernathe, was mistreated and despised by his father, who was bitter that his beloved first son and heir died, leaving James to carry on the title. The former duke's scorn also extended to his second wife, James's mother, causing her to seek oblivion in alcohol. With such dysfunctional parents, and only his sister, Meg, to love him, James and his friends at school formed a club of future dukes. The purpose was for them to teach and support each other, and these ten boys soon became as close as brothers. After his father's death, James even arranged a marriage between one of them and his sister.
Emma Liston has had four seasons. Without family connections, a large dowry, or great beauty, there is little chance she'll make a match. She's generally a wallflower, dancing only a dance or two. To her surprise, she's approached by Meg, sister to a duke, who strikes up a friendly conversation. When Meg's mother bursts in, obviously staggeringly drunk, Emma is quick to help Meg remove her on the pretense of her being ill. James has seen what was happening from across the room, and joins them, helping his mother leave before she creates a scene. James knows that Emma could gossip and cause them much grief, so he asks her for a dance, in order to find her intentions. Emma wastes no time in setting the duke straight, telling him she has no intention of spreading tales. James is not used to such forthright speaking, especially from a woman, and he begins to admire the wallflower with the lovely eyes.
Meg is also appreciative of Emma's support, and she begins inviting her to social activities. The two become best friends, almost amazingly instantaneously. This also means that James is now seeing a lot of Emma, who intrigues him with her honest speaking and lack of flattery. As these two become friends, they agree to pretend to have a romantic interest in each other - this will increase Emma's consequence with other gentlemen, and will discourage ladies hoping to snare James. Meg really would like to marry and have a family of her own, while James made a vow to himself never to marry after seeing the example his parents set.
As they get to know each other, Emma begins to fall in love, while James begins to fall in lust. James is too honorable to ruin Emma, but he can't seem to keep his hands off her, and her response to his advances is scorching. James has developed an outward charming facade, leading all to believe he's happy and devil-may-care, yet Emma is perceptive enough to see the hurt he still harbors from when he was a child. This hurt has twisted his thinking about love and marriage, and all he wants for his future is revenge on his father, who is no longer there to care. In spite of this, I love James, and the way he treated Emma as his equal. He sees her beauty and admires her character. Emma is kind and plainly spoken without being obnoxious. I adore that they always spoke the truth to each other.
I found THE DARING DUKE to be a fantastic read. James and Emma are both wonderful characters, who have suffered at the hands of their parents. I love that author Jess Michaels did not follow the easy path for this couple to come together through a well used plot device, but rather forced James to confront his own feelings. This first installment of the 1797 Club series is well written, well paced, emotional, and romantic. I recommend THE DARING DUKE highly, and can hardly wait for the next installment.
James Rylon, Duke of Abernathe, was mistreated and despised by his father, who was bitter that his beloved first son and heir died, leaving James to carry on the title. The former duke's scorn also extended to his second wife, James's mother, causing her to seek oblivion in alcohol. With such dysfunctional parents, and only his sister, Meg, to love him, James and his friends at school formed a club of future dukes. The purpose was for them to teach and support each other, and these ten boys soon became as close as brothers. After his father's death, James even arranged a marriage between one of them and his sister.
Emma Liston has had four seasons. Without family connections, a large dowry, or great beauty, there is little chance she'll make a match. She's generally a wallflower, dancing only a dance or two. To her surprise, she's approached by Meg, sister to a duke, who strikes up a friendly conversation. When Meg's mother bursts in, obviously staggeringly drunk, Emma is quick to help Meg remove her on the pretense of her being ill. James has seen what was happening from across the room, and joins them, helping his mother leave before she creates a scene. James knows that Emma could gossip and cause them much grief, so he asks her for a dance, in order to find her intentions. Emma wastes no time in setting the duke straight, telling him she has no intention of spreading tales. James is not used to such forthright speaking, especially from a woman, and he begins to admire the wallflower with the lovely eyes.
Meg is also appreciative of Emma's support, and she begins inviting her to social activities. The two become best friends, almost amazingly instantaneously. This also means that James is now seeing a lot of Emma, who intrigues him with her honest speaking and lack of flattery. As these two become friends, they agree to pretend to have a romantic interest in each other - this will increase Emma's consequence with other gentlemen, and will discourage ladies hoping to snare James. Meg really would like to marry and have a family of her own, while James made a vow to himself never to marry after seeing the example his parents set.
As they get to know each other, Emma begins to fall in love, while James begins to fall in lust. James is too honorable to ruin Emma, but he can't seem to keep his hands off her, and her response to his advances is scorching. James has developed an outward charming facade, leading all to believe he's happy and devil-may-care, yet Emma is perceptive enough to see the hurt he still harbors from when he was a child. This hurt has twisted his thinking about love and marriage, and all he wants for his future is revenge on his father, who is no longer there to care. In spite of this, I love James, and the way he treated Emma as his equal. He sees her beauty and admires her character. Emma is kind and plainly spoken without being obnoxious. I adore that they always spoke the truth to each other.
I found THE DARING DUKE to be a fantastic read. James and Emma are both wonderful characters, who have suffered at the hands of their parents. I love that author Jess Michaels did not follow the easy path for this couple to come together through a well used plot device, but rather forced James to confront his own feelings. This first installment of the 1797 Club series is well written, well paced, emotional, and romantic. I recommend THE DARING DUKE highly, and can hardly wait for the next installment.
May 16, 2017
'The Daring Duke' by Jess Michaels is the First book in the "The 1797 Club". It is the story of James, Duke of Abernathe and Miss Emma Liston.
The 1797 Club was started in the year 1797 by James and several of his friends who were also future dukes. Most of them were from abusive, non-caring, disinterested families -- especially the fathers. So, the club was a way for them to band together and help and protect each other since they weren't getting that from their families. James is the unofficial leader of the group.
James' father was a really terrible person. He absolutely hated James, his sister and his wife. He was mean, abusive, deceitful and absolutely despicable. So, James grew up feeling unworthy and totally disbelieving in love. He vowed never to marry so that the title that meant so much to his father would end with him.
Emma was a bluestocking wallflower whose parents are almost as bad as James' are -- but -- she has come out of it sweet, warm and caring. Her father shows up every few years when he's in trouble or it is in his interest to do so. Otherwise, he is elsewhere living a hedonistic life with no care or thought for his wife and daughter. Her mother is a desperate, manipulative woman who pushes Emma to marry in order to secure both Emma's and her future because they are running out of money. Yet, when her father does show up from time to time, her mother always totally changes and acts besotted with him.
Emma is chatting with James' sister Meg at a ball when James' mother drunkenly stumbles into them. Meg is devastated and so embarrassed. When Emma takes things in hand and helps Meg get her mother to the retiring room without creating a scene, Meg becomes her friend for life.
Meg begins inviting Emma to functions where she becomes acquainted with James. She and James find that they are very honest in their conversations and James decides to help her to find a husband. He puts the proposition to her by suggesting that he pretend to be interested in her in order to make other men become aware of her and interested in her. Now -- we ALL know how well that is going to work out don't we? :)
Their road to HEA isn't smooth, but it is steady. I loved the book so much that I read it straight through -- just couldn't put it down!
The 1797 Club was started in the year 1797 by James and several of his friends who were also future dukes. Most of them were from abusive, non-caring, disinterested families -- especially the fathers. So, the club was a way for them to band together and help and protect each other since they weren't getting that from their families. James is the unofficial leader of the group.
James' father was a really terrible person. He absolutely hated James, his sister and his wife. He was mean, abusive, deceitful and absolutely despicable. So, James grew up feeling unworthy and totally disbelieving in love. He vowed never to marry so that the title that meant so much to his father would end with him.
Emma was a bluestocking wallflower whose parents are almost as bad as James' are -- but -- she has come out of it sweet, warm and caring. Her father shows up every few years when he's in trouble or it is in his interest to do so. Otherwise, he is elsewhere living a hedonistic life with no care or thought for his wife and daughter. Her mother is a desperate, manipulative woman who pushes Emma to marry in order to secure both Emma's and her future because they are running out of money. Yet, when her father does show up from time to time, her mother always totally changes and acts besotted with him.
Emma is chatting with James' sister Meg at a ball when James' mother drunkenly stumbles into them. Meg is devastated and so embarrassed. When Emma takes things in hand and helps Meg get her mother to the retiring room without creating a scene, Meg becomes her friend for life.
Meg begins inviting Emma to functions where she becomes acquainted with James. She and James find that they are very honest in their conversations and James decides to help her to find a husband. He puts the proposition to her by suggesting that he pretend to be interested in her in order to make other men become aware of her and interested in her. Now -- we ALL know how well that is going to work out don't we? :)
Their road to HEA isn't smooth, but it is steady. I loved the book so much that I read it straight through -- just couldn't put it down!
March 15, 2017
FINAL DECISION: A pretty straight forward historical romance, the story of these characters is complicated by miserable families which have hurt them and made them question the institution of marriage. A good beginning of a new series premised on the improbable coincidence of a number of eligible dukes available for marriage at the same time.
THE STORY: James, Duke of Abernathe, is a founding member of the 1797 Club -- a group of young dukes who work together and help one another navigate their positions. A central part of being a duke is marrying to carry on the family, but James intends never to marry even though no one knows why. Miss Emma Liston is a bluestocking and wallflower and in four seasons has not found a spouse. She asks James to help her by pretending to be interested in her in order to increase her popularity among the other men of the ton.
OPINION: This is a book with immensely likeable main characters. Both Emma and James have been hurt by their dysfunctional families which has made both wary of marriage. Yet they quickly find in one another passion and friendship and eventually love.
Emma is a bluestocking and wallflower who wants love and marriage but has a father who threatens all her possible happiness. The book manages to keep the exact nature of her father's threat secret and gently moves toward the crisis in the book.
James is a man who is determined never to marry in revenge on the father who abused him as a child. James is a kind man who wants the best for his family but cannot forget the neglect and active abuse of his father who never wanted James as his heir. James wants Emma and uses the excuse of "helping" her find another man as an excuse to get closer to her -- even though James himself doesn't recognize that fact.
The book is highly focused on the couple in this book and the plot is really designed to bring these two together and thus doesn't have much impact other than that purpose.
My one complaint about the story is that Emma quickly agrees to engage in sexual acts with James without any intention of marriage. While the intense sexuality is expected in a Jess Michaels book, I thought that the innocent Emma too quickly agrees to allow James to debauch her as long as she remains technically a virgin.
This one complaint doesn't impair my overall enjoyment of the story primarily because the characters are so likeable.
WORTH MENTIONING: I can't wait to read James's sister's story.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE DARING DUKE is the first book in the 1797 Club series which tells the story of ten dukes.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received and ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
THE STORY: James, Duke of Abernathe, is a founding member of the 1797 Club -- a group of young dukes who work together and help one another navigate their positions. A central part of being a duke is marrying to carry on the family, but James intends never to marry even though no one knows why. Miss Emma Liston is a bluestocking and wallflower and in four seasons has not found a spouse. She asks James to help her by pretending to be interested in her in order to increase her popularity among the other men of the ton.
OPINION: This is a book with immensely likeable main characters. Both Emma and James have been hurt by their dysfunctional families which has made both wary of marriage. Yet they quickly find in one another passion and friendship and eventually love.
Emma is a bluestocking and wallflower who wants love and marriage but has a father who threatens all her possible happiness. The book manages to keep the exact nature of her father's threat secret and gently moves toward the crisis in the book.
James is a man who is determined never to marry in revenge on the father who abused him as a child. James is a kind man who wants the best for his family but cannot forget the neglect and active abuse of his father who never wanted James as his heir. James wants Emma and uses the excuse of "helping" her find another man as an excuse to get closer to her -- even though James himself doesn't recognize that fact.
The book is highly focused on the couple in this book and the plot is really designed to bring these two together and thus doesn't have much impact other than that purpose.
My one complaint about the story is that Emma quickly agrees to engage in sexual acts with James without any intention of marriage. While the intense sexuality is expected in a Jess Michaels book, I thought that the innocent Emma too quickly agrees to allow James to debauch her as long as she remains technically a virgin.
This one complaint doesn't impair my overall enjoyment of the story primarily because the characters are so likeable.
WORTH MENTIONING: I can't wait to read James's sister's story.
CONNECTED BOOKS: THE DARING DUKE is the first book in the 1797 Club series which tells the story of ten dukes.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received and ARC of this book via Netgalley in order to provide a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
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