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The Cavensham Heiresses #2
The Bride Who Got Lucky
He would do anything to protect her. Even marry her…
The son of a cold-hearted duke, Nicholas St. Mauer isn’t one to involve himself in society…or open his own heart to anyone. But driven by honor, the reclusive Earl of Somerton feels obliged to keep a watchful eye on Lady Emma Cavensham. She possesses a penchant for passions unbecoming a woman that finds Nick in constant peril of losing his well-structured solitude. She even dared kiss Nick once―an utterly unladylike, and delightful, lapse...
Emma can’t deny the appeal of the earl’s attention, and occasional affection, but she has no need for a man. There are worse fates than spinsterhood, as Emma knows too well. She still mourns the loss of her dear friend Lena, and is determined to prove Lena’s husband responsible for her death before he lures another innocent woman into a brutal marriage. But as Emma pursues her prey, a compromising moment upends all her plans. Now, with gossip swirling and her reputation in tatters, Nick may be the only man brave enough to join in Emma’s cause.. and fight for her heart.
The son of a cold-hearted duke, Nicholas St. Mauer isn’t one to involve himself in society…or open his own heart to anyone. But driven by honor, the reclusive Earl of Somerton feels obliged to keep a watchful eye on Lady Emma Cavensham. She possesses a penchant for passions unbecoming a woman that finds Nick in constant peril of losing his well-structured solitude. She even dared kiss Nick once―an utterly unladylike, and delightful, lapse...
Emma can’t deny the appeal of the earl’s attention, and occasional affection, but she has no need for a man. There are worse fates than spinsterhood, as Emma knows too well. She still mourns the loss of her dear friend Lena, and is determined to prove Lena’s husband responsible for her death before he lures another innocent woman into a brutal marriage. But as Emma pursues her prey, a compromising moment upends all her plans. Now, with gossip swirling and her reputation in tatters, Nick may be the only man brave enough to join in Emma’s cause.. and fight for her heart.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2017
247 people are currently reading
1479 people want to read
About the author
Janna MacGregor
30 books1,151 followersJanna MacGregor was born and raised in the bootheel of Missouri. She credits her darling mom for introducing her to the happily-ever-after world of romance novels. Janna writes stories where compelling and powerful heroines meet and fall in love with their equally matched heroes. She is the mother of triplets and lives in Kansas City with her very own dashing rogue, and two smug, but not surprisingly, perfect pugs. She loves to hear from readers.
Visit her at www.JannaMacGregor.com.
Twitter: @JannaMacGregor
Facebook: Janna MacGregor
Sign up for her newsletter at www.JannaMacGregor.com
Visit her at www.JannaMacGregor.com.
Twitter: @JannaMacGregor
Facebook: Janna MacGregor
Sign up for her newsletter at www.JannaMacGregor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
October 19, 2017
3.5 stars
***I won a copy from First Reads GoodReads giveaway. First US resident to pm me I'll pay it forward and mail my copy to them.***
Claimed
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.
Ever since his father coldly rejected him in front of his peers, Nick has closed himself off from any semblance of love. He devotes himself to his business and stays clear from any marriage market shenanigans.
Blaming herself for not helping her dear friend Lena, Emma is determined to never marry and provide women with an opportunity to be at least somewhat self-sufficient.
Nick and Emma have danced around a friendship for years but when reputations are on the line, they find themselves forced into a situation they never wanted. Or so they thought.
Second in the Cavensham Heiresses series, The Bride Who Got Lucky stars Nick and Emma. They were introduced in the first and while the author starts us off from a situation that developed there, new readers would still have no problem starting here. You'd miss how Emma’s cousin and husband came together who are featured here but otherwise the author does a great job showing how Emma and Nick's friendship started to develop.
With a deep sigh, he lay on his back and draped an arm across his forehead. His other rested beside hers.
She dared to slide her hand over his, and he wove their fingers together. Her fear gradually receded little by little like the outgoing tide.
What I loved the most about this story was the beginning friendship that Nick and Emma shared. Right off the bat they captured me with their sensual tension that blazed from their back and forth conversations and crackling physical closeness. They danced around each other beautifully in the beginning that had me highly anticipating their journey. The resolve came much too quickly for me as their relationship started full steam ahead at around the 30% mark and fairly soon rushed to a higher sexual degree. I was settled in for a more gradual build and was a bit disappointed in how the heroine became pretty sexual and drove the focus to bedroom scenes instead of teasing tension filled hesitant touches. The bedroom scenes were well written but they became the focus for too long and took away from their friendship and the plot that brings them together.
"Sometimes, if you're lucky, a woman consumes you."
Nick was a pretty great hero, he gives Emma a book!, and the opening prologue where his father crushes their relationship provided a solid base for his contained, bury the pain personality. He had moments of sexiness and caring but also paled a bit in comparison to the deeper flushed out Emma. Emma feels deep guilt over not being there for her bestfriend when her husband was abusing her. This leads to her having a fear of marrying (an often used trope but felt real and believable here) and wanting to open a lending bank to women. Her thoughts and feelings she relays and conversations she struggles to be understood in will have you joining in with her frustration. She's a believable regency feminist who is fearful and angry about what happened to her friend and how she doesn't really have any recourse for justice or protect herself from the same fate.
While I liked all the themes and relationships happening here, there was also a bit of a disjointed feel to all the storylines. I couldn't help but feel that a feminist heroine box was being checked and the heavy sexual tone and number of sexual scenes not only disappointed me in the lack of time given to a more tension filled build-up, it also seemed to overly cover up the justice for the bestfriend thread. The heavy emotion from domestic violence and how it affected Emma and the women of the time doesn't get its due and the danger from the villain wasn't able to be fully felt because of how it is pushed to the side, in what seems to be, in favor of more sex scenes.
The writing veered at times to flowery, I would have liked more tension build-up, and the ending was a bit too pat. However, the author's ability to write great chemistry between her leads and such wonderful multifaceted relationships between family members and friends will definitely have me continuing on in the series. She has introduced a couple secondary characters that I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.
His darkness gave way to her, like the night to the day.
She had found him and brought him home.
Claimed
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.
Ever since his father coldly rejected him in front of his peers, Nick has closed himself off from any semblance of love. He devotes himself to his business and stays clear from any marriage market shenanigans.
Blaming herself for not helping her dear friend Lena, Emma is determined to never marry and provide women with an opportunity to be at least somewhat self-sufficient.
Nick and Emma have danced around a friendship for years but when reputations are on the line, they find themselves forced into a situation they never wanted. Or so they thought.
Second in the Cavensham Heiresses series, The Bride Who Got Lucky stars Nick and Emma. They were introduced in the first and while the author starts us off from a situation that developed there, new readers would still have no problem starting here. You'd miss how Emma’s cousin and husband came together who are featured here but otherwise the author does a great job showing how Emma and Nick's friendship started to develop.
With a deep sigh, he lay on his back and draped an arm across his forehead. His other rested beside hers.
She dared to slide her hand over his, and he wove their fingers together. Her fear gradually receded little by little like the outgoing tide.
What I loved the most about this story was the beginning friendship that Nick and Emma shared. Right off the bat they captured me with their sensual tension that blazed from their back and forth conversations and crackling physical closeness. They danced around each other beautifully in the beginning that had me highly anticipating their journey. The resolve came much too quickly for me as their relationship started full steam ahead at around the 30% mark and fairly soon rushed to a higher sexual degree. I was settled in for a more gradual build and was a bit disappointed in how the heroine became pretty sexual and drove the focus to bedroom scenes instead of teasing tension filled hesitant touches. The bedroom scenes were well written but they became the focus for too long and took away from their friendship and the plot that brings them together.
"Sometimes, if you're lucky, a woman consumes you."
Nick was a pretty great hero, he gives Emma a book!, and the opening prologue where his father crushes their relationship provided a solid base for his contained, bury the pain personality. He had moments of sexiness and caring but also paled a bit in comparison to the deeper flushed out Emma. Emma feels deep guilt over not being there for her bestfriend when her husband was abusing her. This leads to her having a fear of marrying (an often used trope but felt real and believable here) and wanting to open a lending bank to women. Her thoughts and feelings she relays and conversations she struggles to be understood in will have you joining in with her frustration. She's a believable regency feminist who is fearful and angry about what happened to her friend and how she doesn't really have any recourse for justice or protect herself from the same fate.
While I liked all the themes and relationships happening here, there was also a bit of a disjointed feel to all the storylines. I couldn't help but feel that a feminist heroine box was being checked and the heavy sexual tone and number of sexual scenes not only disappointed me in the lack of time given to a more tension filled build-up, it also seemed to overly cover up the justice for the bestfriend thread. The heavy emotion from domestic violence and how it affected Emma and the women of the time doesn't get its due and the danger from the villain wasn't able to be fully felt because of how it is pushed to the side, in what seems to be, in favor of more sex scenes.
The writing veered at times to flowery, I would have liked more tension build-up, and the ending was a bit too pat. However, the author's ability to write great chemistry between her leads and such wonderful multifaceted relationships between family members and friends will definitely have me continuing on in the series. She has introduced a couple secondary characters that I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.
His darkness gave way to her, like the night to the day.
She had found him and brought him home.
July 23, 2019
(Tropes: Emotional scars (his), Opposites Attract)
Great 1st half, weak 2nd half.
*****
Somewhere within the past few moments his exasperated free will had gone home—alone. Beside her, he was unable to move as his rational mind sounded the alarm and cried “Retreat.” He raised the white flag, surrendered the fight, and leaned toward her.
*****
Quick plot: When Lady Emma Cavensham decides to take it upon herself to solve her best friend’s alleged murder, reclusive friend of the family Duke Nicholas St Mauer, whom Emma shared a kiss with a few years prior, decides to intervene.
1st half almost shines (apart from the 3 year delay between their first kiss and the events actually start.)
- “You can’t kidnap me,” she whispered and forced herself to lean back.
He was so close, his breath brushed against her cheek like a kiss. Without thinking, she ran her fingers over his lips. She’d never noticed before, but his mouth was perfect. Perfectly kissable.
She jerked her hand away and mumbled, “Pardon me.”
- She boldly surveyed his body again. There was no padding in his clothing.
“Are you finished with your examination, or shall I turn around so you can study my backside?” Somerton challenged her with a raised eyebrow.
“If it wouldn’t be a bother? I’ve had my fill of the front.”
- In one swallow, Alex finished the second cup. “You always seem a little more, how shall I say, animated when she’s present.”
“Lady Emma?” Nick hid his unease by pretending to study another prospectus. A prickly heat crept up his neck when he realized the document was upside down.
- “I am flattered you’re concerned for my welfare. Rest assured those who have need of my social calendar are fully informed of my daily activities.” Her body simmered with a mixture of peevishness and amusement at the idea that he actually believed he could dictate her actions. “You, sir, are not one of those individuals.”
- With one bite, he demolished half of the first pastry. Emma rewarded him with a smile so uninhibited he would have sworn the entire street grew quiet at the sight. The only thing he heard was the blood swooshing through his ears.
- “Well, I think we’ve accomplished quite a lot, don’t you?” Her meek and docile tone would have disarmed most men to think the storm had passed. He knew better. “We’ve established you’re a proper, not to mention honorable, unmitigated arse,” she announced.
But his possessive and ill-tempered personality ruins the 2nd half.
- “Is this the first time you’ve been kissed?” His low voice mesmerized her. A ripple of excitement swept through her, but a sting of mortification soon replaced it. Was it that obvious?
“Yes.…”
“Good.”
- The heat of his anger radiated around them.
- “Absolutely not. I forbid it. You’re my wife and my responsibility.” Running his hand through his hair, he continued. “I take care of you. You’ll not drag your family into this.”
“I don’t want to be your responsibility. I want to be your equal, your partner.”
“I don’t want to argue,” he bit out.
- Do I have your agreement?” The silkiness in his voice didn’t hide the resolution in his request.
Great 1st half, weak 2nd half.
*****
Somewhere within the past few moments his exasperated free will had gone home—alone. Beside her, he was unable to move as his rational mind sounded the alarm and cried “Retreat.” He raised the white flag, surrendered the fight, and leaned toward her.
*****
Quick plot: When Lady Emma Cavensham decides to take it upon herself to solve her best friend’s alleged murder, reclusive friend of the family Duke Nicholas St Mauer, whom Emma shared a kiss with a few years prior, decides to intervene.
1st half almost shines (apart from the 3 year delay between their first kiss and the events actually start.)
- “You can’t kidnap me,” she whispered and forced herself to lean back.
He was so close, his breath brushed against her cheek like a kiss. Without thinking, she ran her fingers over his lips. She’d never noticed before, but his mouth was perfect. Perfectly kissable.
She jerked her hand away and mumbled, “Pardon me.”
- She boldly surveyed his body again. There was no padding in his clothing.
“Are you finished with your examination, or shall I turn around so you can study my backside?” Somerton challenged her with a raised eyebrow.
“If it wouldn’t be a bother? I’ve had my fill of the front.”
- In one swallow, Alex finished the second cup. “You always seem a little more, how shall I say, animated when she’s present.”
“Lady Emma?” Nick hid his unease by pretending to study another prospectus. A prickly heat crept up his neck when he realized the document was upside down.
- “I am flattered you’re concerned for my welfare. Rest assured those who have need of my social calendar are fully informed of my daily activities.” Her body simmered with a mixture of peevishness and amusement at the idea that he actually believed he could dictate her actions. “You, sir, are not one of those individuals.”
- With one bite, he demolished half of the first pastry. Emma rewarded him with a smile so uninhibited he would have sworn the entire street grew quiet at the sight. The only thing he heard was the blood swooshing through his ears.
- “Well, I think we’ve accomplished quite a lot, don’t you?” Her meek and docile tone would have disarmed most men to think the storm had passed. He knew better. “We’ve established you’re a proper, not to mention honorable, unmitigated arse,” she announced.
But his possessive and ill-tempered personality ruins the 2nd half.
- “Is this the first time you’ve been kissed?” His low voice mesmerized her. A ripple of excitement swept through her, but a sting of mortification soon replaced it. Was it that obvious?
“Yes.…”
“Good.”
- The heat of his anger radiated around them.
- “Absolutely not. I forbid it. You’re my wife and my responsibility.” Running his hand through his hair, he continued. “I take care of you. You’ll not drag your family into this.”
“I don’t want to be your responsibility. I want to be your equal, your partner.”
“I don’t want to argue,” he bit out.
- Do I have your agreement?” The silkiness in his voice didn’t hide the resolution in his request.
March 12, 2021
This is an entertaining, well-written, steamy, historical romance novel. It has likable, engaging characters, a strong and capable female protagonist, the heartbreak of domestic violence, a wedding toast that brought tears to my eyes, a fabulous, empowering wedding gift, a heart-warming romance, and a happily ever after ending. I am looking forward to reading the other entries in Ms. MacGregor's Cavensham Heiresses series with great anticipation. I listened to the audio version of this novel and the narrator, Ms. Rosalyn Landor, has a lovely voice and does an outstanding job depicting the voices and expressing the personalities of the characters.
October 31, 2017
Emma is on a mission to find justice.
I really enjoyed The Bride who got Lucky. It was packed with all the things I’ve come to adore in my historical romance. The characters, while stubborn at times, were also lovable. Both the hero and heroine have faced hurt and frustration which has made them the people they are. What made this story interesting, was their growth from the characters they were at the beginning.
It’s amazing what humiliation can lead you to. In the case of our hero, at a young age, his father made certain that he knew he was not wanted. Dumped at boarding school when he was five, he felt alone. With each hurt dealt by his father, a brick was added to the barrier around his heart. Eventually, he learnt to ignore feelings and focus his mind on his work. That helped him…until a kiss was offered as payment for a book.
Our heroine is on a mission to make women matter. It hurts her heart knowing that women are treated as possessions and used as commodities of trade and advancement. Her aim is to help women and if she can succeed, hopefully, she will reduce her feelings of guilt. One of her dearest friends died and she’s convinced it was at the hands of her husband. If only the men in her life would stop getting in her way when she tries to bring the dastardly man to justice.
There were times I shed a tear while reading, frustrated with the injustices of the time. Women were treated so badly and men who claim to love them allowed it to happen. It can seem quite appealing when decisions are left to a strong man who has good intentions. Bossy husbands can have their appeal when it is done with devotion, love and protection behind it. Where it loses its appeal, is when choice, individuality and safety is compromised. It was enlightening to see it shown so clearly in these opposing ways. Definitely a case of seeing the plusses and minuses.
Now talking about stubborn, these two knuckleheads were a wee bit frustrating. I could see where they both were coming from and understood their determination. Each time they butted heads, neither was willing to compromise. What made it more frustrating for me was the time it took for them to realise the errors in their ways. Her expectations of him to forsake his rules and convictions that lead him to be the man he is. His determination to keep her a step away from the barrier around his heart. I wanted to knock their bloody heads together. Eventually, they come good.
This was an extra steamy read and even I found that there was a wee bit more than needed. But who am I to complain? I’ll take too much than none at all.
This series keeps improving and Janna MacGregor's voice gets stronger with each instalment. I will definitely be going on in the series to see how March and Michael get along.
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.
I really enjoyed The Bride who got Lucky. It was packed with all the things I’ve come to adore in my historical romance. The characters, while stubborn at times, were also lovable. Both the hero and heroine have faced hurt and frustration which has made them the people they are. What made this story interesting, was their growth from the characters they were at the beginning.
It’s amazing what humiliation can lead you to. In the case of our hero, at a young age, his father made certain that he knew he was not wanted. Dumped at boarding school when he was five, he felt alone. With each hurt dealt by his father, a brick was added to the barrier around his heart. Eventually, he learnt to ignore feelings and focus his mind on his work. That helped him…until a kiss was offered as payment for a book.
Our heroine is on a mission to make women matter. It hurts her heart knowing that women are treated as possessions and used as commodities of trade and advancement. Her aim is to help women and if she can succeed, hopefully, she will reduce her feelings of guilt. One of her dearest friends died and she’s convinced it was at the hands of her husband. If only the men in her life would stop getting in her way when she tries to bring the dastardly man to justice.
There were times I shed a tear while reading, frustrated with the injustices of the time. Women were treated so badly and men who claim to love them allowed it to happen. It can seem quite appealing when decisions are left to a strong man who has good intentions. Bossy husbands can have their appeal when it is done with devotion, love and protection behind it. Where it loses its appeal, is when choice, individuality and safety is compromised. It was enlightening to see it shown so clearly in these opposing ways. Definitely a case of seeing the plusses and minuses.
Now talking about stubborn, these two knuckleheads were a wee bit frustrating. I could see where they both were coming from and understood their determination. Each time they butted heads, neither was willing to compromise. What made it more frustrating for me was the time it took for them to realise the errors in their ways. Her expectations of him to forsake his rules and convictions that lead him to be the man he is. His determination to keep her a step away from the barrier around his heart. I wanted to knock their bloody heads together. Eventually, they come good.
This was an extra steamy read and even I found that there was a wee bit more than needed. But who am I to complain? I’ll take too much than none at all.
This series keeps improving and Janna MacGregor's voice gets stronger with each instalment. I will definitely be going on in the series to see how March and Michael get along.
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 13, 2017
DNF at 50%...
I'm sorry, but it was so dry that I just couldn't go on... It took me the whole day to read half of it!!! O_O
I'm sorry, but it was so dry that I just couldn't go on... It took me the whole day to read half of it!!! O_O
April 29, 2018
This fell incredibly flat for me which is disappointing as it had a lot of promise.
The hero is brutally abandoned by his father at fifteen and has to make his way on his own, vowing to make even more money than his father the Duke. Lots of Dukes here. For an embittered hero with Daddy issues, he is remarkably lighthearted and charming.
The heroine is women's right activist with the need to avenge her BF's death at the hands of her husband and a strident reluctance to get married. Her father is a Duke too. As a Duke's daughter she should know better that when you place yourself in a compromising position, you must be married or else be ostracized. I wanted to strangle her.
Despite periods of beautiful writing, the slow pace, the irritating heroine, some anachronisms (It was the least he could do for the lousy dinner), and major character betrayal the story derailed for me.
Character BetrayalThe hero:
The sister of the man that bullied the H horribly as a kid needs a loan so she won't have to marry the murderous man that killed the h's BF. The H is steadfast that he will not lend any money to the man that made his life a misery even though it means the sister will have to marry a murderer. It makes no sense as up until now the hero was actually a sane and kind man.
The hero's father:
He's been writing his son for years although the H refuses to read his letters. Daddy Duke shows up a beaten man, eaten up with remorse because of how he abandoned his son so many years ago. He knew as soon as he left the school. So? Why not turn around or reach out at any time in the fifteen years?
Oh well.
Top marks for a nice seduction on the wedding night and a duel.
The hero is brutally abandoned by his father at fifteen and has to make his way on his own, vowing to make even more money than his father the Duke. Lots of Dukes here. For an embittered hero with Daddy issues, he is remarkably lighthearted and charming.
The heroine is women's right activist with the need to avenge her BF's death at the hands of her husband and a strident reluctance to get married. Her father is a Duke too. As a Duke's daughter she should know better that when you place yourself in a compromising position, you must be married or else be ostracized. I wanted to strangle her.
Despite periods of beautiful writing, the slow pace, the irritating heroine, some anachronisms (It was the least he could do for the lousy dinner), and major character betrayal the story derailed for me.
Character BetrayalThe hero:
The sister of the man that bullied the H horribly as a kid needs a loan so she won't have to marry the murderous man that killed the h's BF. The H is steadfast that he will not lend any money to the man that made his life a misery even though it means the sister will have to marry a murderer. It makes no sense as up until now the hero was actually a sane and kind man.
The hero's father:
He's been writing his son for years although the H refuses to read his letters. Daddy Duke shows up a beaten man, eaten up with remorse because of how he abandoned his son so many years ago. He knew as soon as he left the school. So? Why not turn around or reach out at any time in the fifteen years?
Oh well.
Top marks for a nice seduction on the wedding night and a duel.
May 19, 2020
Felt like a shake-and-bake for a romance novel—but ingredients didn't come together right (2.5 stars)
Summary. Lady Emma Cavensham (25), daughter of a duke, has no interest in ever getting married; rather, she wants to open a bank specifically for women. She is devastated when her best friend dies at the hands of her husband, after suffering years of domestic violence, and is determined that he will pay for his crimes. Nicholas "Nick" Mauer, Earl of Somerton (32) has had an on-again off-again kind-of-flirting with Emma, though for the most part he stays pretty isolated. He is estranged from his only living relative (that we know of), his father. His best friend married Emma's cousin (their story was in Book 1) and so whenever he does spend time with anyone or when it comes to the winter holidays, he always spends it with his best friend and by extension, Emma and her family.
Emma is a bit of a wildcard; she has no interest in Society and lives life to her own tune (is that an expression? I think not, but I can't remember the correct one). On several different occasions, Nick ends up playing a type of guardian role to her and is put in the position of protecting her from herself, for lack of a better phrase. The relationship between them develops progressively throughout, but there are still many doubts on both sides. Unfortunately, one of these occasions ends up have repercussions that forces their hands, and they have to decide whether to take a chance on love, giving up the structured and somewhat-lonely lives they had both settled on for themselves.
Praise. I'm going to preface by saying that everything I'm about to say has a big "but" that will follow. I liked Emma's independence and her spitfire attitude; Nick is a total contrast from that, but from the beginning he's a very sweet guy that your heart goes out to, because he's had a rough go of it and has isolated himself so much—just wanted to cuddle him! The book focuses a lot on domestic violence and I thought it dealt with the issue very well; it took on a heavy subject that not many romances deal with. The chemistry between Emma and Nick was sizzling and all the supporting characters were very three-dimensional and made for a nice, full cast of characters.
Criticism. Okay. So. Now for the but's. I ended up skimming through some parts and the whole thing seemed to drag a bit, I don't know if that's because it was more drawn out than it needed to be, or if it just felt that way because I was bothered by so many small issues. My issues with the book were for the most part not plot-related, and that's important to understand; it also makes it difficult for me in some instances to explain succinctly and clearly what the problem was, but I'll try.
In some instances, I had no idea what the characters were feeling and was super confused, because the clues we're given are inconsistent and/or conflicting. When Emma comes back from one of her escapades, for example, I was completely unclear on whether she was nervous about seeing her parents because she thought they were going to be angry or because they would have been worried. At the beginning, I also couldn't tell from how the Duke and Duchess's reactions which way it was going to go either. And this wasn't an issue of them feeling both—it was clearly supposed to be in one direction or the other, and it was just a confusing mess. Or after an exchange between Emma and Nick, I was completely unclear on what each was thinking and what had driven them to act the way they did; one could guess, but there were several different possibilities that would have made sense, so ...??
There were also smaller things, like him calling her "sweet Emma" way earlier in their relationship than it seems appropriate; it ends up sounding super corny and awkward, because they haven't progressed to that point yet. Another few times, he stands so close to her that his lips "brush her cheek" or some shit like that and given the scene, that just seems awkward and physically impossible, or it's when they're on the dance floor or somewhere totally inappropriate where this would SO not happen. Then there's an exchange between them and with her parting phrase, he reacts by laughing ... but there was nothing funny, why is he laughing? It was like the dialogue had been edited, but MacGregor forgot to update the response. That was, a lot of times, the problem—it either seemed like certain edits had been made and other jarring parts left in that didn't match, or that she couldn't decide in which direction she wanted to go for something and so instead kept zig-zagging between multiple options. Or he says something super sweet, she throws back a very mean and sharp volley ... and that makes him then feel apologetic and he sees how he handled that badly; what??
And to thrown in a random last one, at one point Nick thinks she's "breathtakingly beautiful in her grief" ... wtf?? That's just weird.
Bottom Line. It wasn't my cup of tea. I ended up skimming certain sections and looking back, I wish I had used my time to read something else. There was definite promise, but I couldn't stop myself from getting hung-up on the amateurish feel of several aspects. It was definitely far better than Book 1, which I couldn't even get 1/3 of the way through, so MacGregor is improving; I'm hoping Book 3 will show the same improvement and hit it out of the park (for me). ... And writing this review makes me realize I should give it 2.5 stars instead of 3. So 2.5 stars it is!
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
"Explain to me why I am any of your interest? You're not my keeper."I did end up enjoying this better than Book 1, but it would have been difficult not to—I DNF'd the first one (read my review). This still wasn't great though, and I'm a little befuddled at the high average rating. In my opinion, Janna MacGregor needs to mature a bit as a writer and get tighter in her storytelling; the base and potential is definitely there, but I hate to say this ... at times, it read quite amateurish. And it was the same issues as with Book 1, though again, it was better this time around, so maybe Book 3 will be even better and maybe Book 4 will become a favorite (one can hope!).
He stiffened, and a muscle clenched in his jaw. She'd shocked him, and it delighted her he failed to have a ready answer.
Slowly, one of his devastating, incandescent smiles—the ones designed to melt a woman's heart—transformed his face. "Because you're one of the very few people in this world I enjoy."
Summary. Lady Emma Cavensham (25), daughter of a duke, has no interest in ever getting married; rather, she wants to open a bank specifically for women. She is devastated when her best friend dies at the hands of her husband, after suffering years of domestic violence, and is determined that he will pay for his crimes. Nicholas "Nick" Mauer, Earl of Somerton (32) has had an on-again off-again kind-of-flirting with Emma, though for the most part he stays pretty isolated. He is estranged from his only living relative (that we know of), his father. His best friend married Emma's cousin (their story was in Book 1) and so whenever he does spend time with anyone or when it comes to the winter holidays, he always spends it with his best friend and by extension, Emma and her family.
Emma is a bit of a wildcard; she has no interest in Society and lives life to her own tune (is that an expression? I think not, but I can't remember the correct one). On several different occasions, Nick ends up playing a type of guardian role to her and is put in the position of protecting her from herself, for lack of a better phrase. The relationship between them develops progressively throughout, but there are still many doubts on both sides. Unfortunately, one of these occasions ends up have repercussions that forces their hands, and they have to decide whether to take a chance on love, giving up the structured and somewhat-lonely lives they had both settled on for themselves.
Praise. I'm going to preface by saying that everything I'm about to say has a big "but" that will follow. I liked Emma's independence and her spitfire attitude; Nick is a total contrast from that, but from the beginning he's a very sweet guy that your heart goes out to, because he's had a rough go of it and has isolated himself so much—just wanted to cuddle him! The book focuses a lot on domestic violence and I thought it dealt with the issue very well; it took on a heavy subject that not many romances deal with. The chemistry between Emma and Nick was sizzling and all the supporting characters were very three-dimensional and made for a nice, full cast of characters.
Criticism. Okay. So. Now for the but's. I ended up skimming through some parts and the whole thing seemed to drag a bit, I don't know if that's because it was more drawn out than it needed to be, or if it just felt that way because I was bothered by so many small issues. My issues with the book were for the most part not plot-related, and that's important to understand; it also makes it difficult for me in some instances to explain succinctly and clearly what the problem was, but I'll try.
In some instances, I had no idea what the characters were feeling and was super confused, because the clues we're given are inconsistent and/or conflicting. When Emma comes back from one of her escapades, for example, I was completely unclear on whether she was nervous about seeing her parents because she thought they were going to be angry or because they would have been worried. At the beginning, I also couldn't tell from how the Duke and Duchess's reactions which way it was going to go either. And this wasn't an issue of them feeling both—it was clearly supposed to be in one direction or the other, and it was just a confusing mess. Or after an exchange between Emma and Nick, I was completely unclear on what each was thinking and what had driven them to act the way they did; one could guess, but there were several different possibilities that would have made sense, so ...??
There were also smaller things, like him calling her "sweet Emma" way earlier in their relationship than it seems appropriate; it ends up sounding super corny and awkward, because they haven't progressed to that point yet. Another few times, he stands so close to her that his lips "brush her cheek" or some shit like that and given the scene, that just seems awkward and physically impossible, or it's when they're on the dance floor or somewhere totally inappropriate where this would SO not happen. Then there's an exchange between them and with her parting phrase, he reacts by laughing ... but there was nothing funny, why is he laughing? It was like the dialogue had been edited, but MacGregor forgot to update the response. That was, a lot of times, the problem—it either seemed like certain edits had been made and other jarring parts left in that didn't match, or that she couldn't decide in which direction she wanted to go for something and so instead kept zig-zagging between multiple options. Or he says something super sweet, she throws back a very mean and sharp volley ... and that makes him then feel apologetic and he sees how he handled that badly; what??
And to thrown in a random last one, at one point Nick thinks she's "breathtakingly beautiful in her grief" ... wtf?? That's just weird.
Bottom Line. It wasn't my cup of tea. I ended up skimming certain sections and looking back, I wish I had used my time to read something else. There was definite promise, but I couldn't stop myself from getting hung-up on the amateurish feel of several aspects. It was definitely far better than Book 1, which I couldn't even get 1/3 of the way through, so MacGregor is improving; I'm hoping Book 3 will show the same improvement and hit it out of the park (for me). ... And writing this review makes me realize I should give it 2.5 stars instead of 3. So 2.5 stars it is!
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
May 16, 2019
2nd time around and still a 5 Star read for me. This time I listened to the audio book and loved it!
Janna MacGregor has really done something here, she's written the first book I've read that reminds me of a McNaught. <3 I am a new forever fan.
I feel like I hit the jackpot. I read this book a month ago and Somerset and Emma are still vividly with me. Miss MacGregor takes pieces of little known history and shows us how women have been supporting one another for centuries. The hero is not only alpha, but he's soft hearted and gentle too, a reasonable man in a time when they didn't have to be.
Janna MacGregor has really done something here, she's written the first book I've read that reminds me of a McNaught. <3 I am a new forever fan.
I feel like I hit the jackpot. I read this book a month ago and Somerset and Emma are still vividly with me. Miss MacGregor takes pieces of little known history and shows us how women have been supporting one another for centuries. The hero is not only alpha, but he's soft hearted and gentle too, a reasonable man in a time when they didn't have to be.
October 25, 2017
Series: The Cavensham Heiresses #2
Publication Date: 10/31/17
I have read several other reviews for this book and I appear to be in the minority with my rating – so take that for what it is worth. I read the first book in the series and liked it much better than this one. Janna MacGregor is a new author – I believe this is her second book – and I feel she is still finding her writing legs. All-in-all, I liked the book okay.
There are things I liked about the books and things I didn’t. I’ll cover some of them below. I think the pacing was pretty good and the writing was good, but I don’t think it was as good as in the first book in the series. I think there are some odd word choices, odd phrasing and maybe some awkward transitions, but this is an ARC and I’m sure a good editor will find and help fix those before publication.
I liked the hero, Nicholas St. Mauer, Earl of Somerton and heir to Drake St. Mauer, Duke of Renton. His mother died giving him birth and his father just couldn’t get past that, so he was very aloof from Nick as he grew up. Nick was sent to school at five and was moved from school to school because he was so smart – but that kept him from forming friendships. At the age of 15, he was at Eton and his father delivered a shaming rebuke to him – in front of his schoolmates. You’ll just have to read the story to see what gosh-awful things the old reprobate said, but it certainly defined Nick’s life from that point on. That is quite a burden for an already lonely young man, so you can see why he is cold, aloof, and set revenge on his father and the boys who ridiculed him at school after his father’s rebuke. He ran pretty true to character throughout the book and it was nice to see him grow and learn that he wasn’t worthless and that he really could love. I got really upset with him at about the 80% mark and thought he had really blown it with Emma.
Unlike everyone else, I didn’t care for the heroine so much. She actually set my teeth on edge! She was written about as being full of sunshine and light and everybody loved her as soon as they met her. I don’t doubt that she had the capability to love and that she was deeply upset about the death of her friend in such a horrendous manner. However, I also think that she is like so many of the heroines I read about in historical romances. She’s portrayed as brave – but is that really the case? I see her as more totally unaware and uncaring for her safety, the safety of others and the worry and heartache she causes others. She cannot be so naïve as to think that nothing could possibly happen to a lone woman meeting a man at a pub or even traveling to another city. She surely has to know that her family will be horribly upset to find she’s gone to another city – requiring overnight stays – totally alone. Surely she understands that, aside from the hurt and worry she’s causing them – they could pay a price socially if she is caught. Evidently, none of that mattered to her. Also – while I totally support (in today’s society) her feminist stances, I don’t believe for a minute that she would have been so vocal or outspoken in that actual time period. Then, there is the matter of her bank – great idea – but – men of the aristocracy weren’t supposed to be in ‘trade’ during that period and women weren’t allowed any sort of employment. She would have been shunned and ostracized.
Lady Emma Cavensham is the daughter of a duke. Her home and family is filled with love and respect for one another. Her parents are totally in love as is her cousin and her husband. She has many, many examples of happy, loving, equal-partner marriages right in her own family. However, her friend Lena married a monstrous man who murdered her. So, from this example, Emma ignores all of the love with which she is surrounded and believes that marriage is a prison and she will never give up her freedom and marry. She is hell-bent on bringing the villain to justice but feels powerless to do that. And, in that time, I’m sure she would have been. What I didn’t understand though – her family adores her, dotes on her and they are extremely powerful – they saw her deep sorrow and would do nothing to help her get justice – I just don’t buy that. Doesn’t run true to what they are supposed to be as a family.
After her brothers and parents leave for various destinations, she sneaks off to the coast to investigate and find a first-hand witness to Lena’s murder. The trip is a full day’s travel away and requires staying overnight – but she thinks maybe she’ll stay a bit longer. She’s very close to the villains home and all alone – no maid – no chaperone – no able-bodied male for protection – so we all know that the villain will never find out - right – he’ll never cause trouble - right . . . . I’m sorry – she just seems to be one of those TSTL heroines to me. But – here comes the hero to save her.
Nick has loved her for a long time and wants to protect her – but he doesn’t want marriage because he feels she deserves better than him. Of course, they end up having to marry and they both love each other. It is nice watching them grow and learn and become better people.
Emma becomes a much more likable character after the marriage. She gives up her reckless behaviors and concentrates on her bank where she helps women get the loans that they could not get at another bank. She shows her understanding of what drives many women and makes solid judgments on who can be trusted to repay – even if there is little if any, real collateral for the loan. She provides a service that is much needed. I loved how she explained it to Nick.
Please check out my blog at: https://flippinpages.blog/
"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 read several other reviews for this book and I appear to be in the minority with my rating – so take that for what it is worth. I read the first book in the series and liked it much better than this one. Janna MacGregor is a new author – I believe this is her second book – and I feel she is still finding her writing legs. All-in-all, I liked the book okay.
There are things I liked about the books and things I didn’t. I’ll cover some of them below. I think the pacing was pretty good and the writing was good, but I don’t think it was as good as in the first book in the series. I think there are some odd word choices, odd phrasing and maybe some awkward transitions, but this is an ARC and I’m sure a good editor will find and help fix those before publication.
I liked the hero, Nicholas St. Mauer, Earl of Somerton and heir to Drake St. Mauer, Duke of Renton. His mother died giving him birth and his father just couldn’t get past that, so he was very aloof from Nick as he grew up. Nick was sent to school at five and was moved from school to school because he was so smart – but that kept him from forming friendships. At the age of 15, he was at Eton and his father delivered a shaming rebuke to him – in front of his schoolmates. You’ll just have to read the story to see what gosh-awful things the old reprobate said, but it certainly defined Nick’s life from that point on. That is quite a burden for an already lonely young man, so you can see why he is cold, aloof, and set revenge on his father and the boys who ridiculed him at school after his father’s rebuke. He ran pretty true to character throughout the book and it was nice to see him grow and learn that he wasn’t worthless and that he really could love. I got really upset with him at about the 80% mark and thought he had really blown it with Emma.
Unlike everyone else, I didn’t care for the heroine so much. She actually set my teeth on edge! She was written about as being full of sunshine and light and everybody loved her as soon as they met her. I don’t doubt that she had the capability to love and that she was deeply upset about the death of her friend in such a horrendous manner. However, I also think that she is like so many of the heroines I read about in historical romances. She’s portrayed as brave – but is that really the case? I see her as more totally unaware and uncaring for her safety, the safety of others and the worry and heartache she causes others. She cannot be so naïve as to think that nothing could possibly happen to a lone woman meeting a man at a pub or even traveling to another city. She surely has to know that her family will be horribly upset to find she’s gone to another city – requiring overnight stays – totally alone. Surely she understands that, aside from the hurt and worry she’s causing them – they could pay a price socially if she is caught. Evidently, none of that mattered to her. Also – while I totally support (in today’s society) her feminist stances, I don’t believe for a minute that she would have been so vocal or outspoken in that actual time period. Then, there is the matter of her bank – great idea – but – men of the aristocracy weren’t supposed to be in ‘trade’ during that period and women weren’t allowed any sort of employment. She would have been shunned and ostracized.
Lady Emma Cavensham is the daughter of a duke. Her home and family is filled with love and respect for one another. Her parents are totally in love as is her cousin and her husband. She has many, many examples of happy, loving, equal-partner marriages right in her own family. However, her friend Lena married a monstrous man who murdered her. So, from this example, Emma ignores all of the love with which she is surrounded and believes that marriage is a prison and she will never give up her freedom and marry. She is hell-bent on bringing the villain to justice but feels powerless to do that. And, in that time, I’m sure she would have been. What I didn’t understand though – her family adores her, dotes on her and they are extremely powerful – they saw her deep sorrow and would do nothing to help her get justice – I just don’t buy that. Doesn’t run true to what they are supposed to be as a family.
After her brothers and parents leave for various destinations, she sneaks off to the coast to investigate and find a first-hand witness to Lena’s murder. The trip is a full day’s travel away and requires staying overnight – but she thinks maybe she’ll stay a bit longer. She’s very close to the villains home and all alone – no maid – no chaperone – no able-bodied male for protection – so we all know that the villain will never find out - right – he’ll never cause trouble - right . . . . I’m sorry – she just seems to be one of those TSTL heroines to me. But – here comes the hero to save her.
Nick has loved her for a long time and wants to protect her – but he doesn’t want marriage because he feels she deserves better than him. Of course, they end up having to marry and they both love each other. It is nice watching them grow and learn and become better people.
Emma becomes a much more likable character after the marriage. She gives up her reckless behaviors and concentrates on her bank where she helps women get the loans that they could not get at another bank. She shows her understanding of what drives many women and makes solid judgments on who can be trusted to repay – even if there is little if any, real collateral for the loan. She provides a service that is much needed. I loved how she explained it to Nick.
Please check out my blog at: https://flippinpages.blog/
"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."
October 31, 2017
Three stars. There are aspects of The Bride Who Got Lucky that I liked and there are things about it that I hope the publishers addressed before the publication date.
I liked that the heroine Lady Emma is very passionate about her causes - her fight to get justice for the death of her friend Lena and her desire to help women in need by setting up a bank. I liked that she's brave and that she loves to read.
I liked that Nick is a self-made man, that he amassed his own fortune. I liked that he is so protective of Emma even though he kept fighting his feelings for her. It is admirable that he stands firm on his principles and is not wishy-washy.
I appreciate that Ms. MacGregor has them waiting until they got married to consummate their relationship.
I also liked that the whole family gets involved and although I haven't read the first book, I appreciate that the story of Alex and Claire gets an update.
There are things that are questionable. The reason for Emma's banishment is flimsy. Getting caught sneaking off to meet someone to buy a rare book from him is hardly worth the punishment she received. Nobody outside of the family knew about it so there wasn't any scandal.
The forms of address among the nobility are inconsistent. I've read hundreds of historical novels and never have I seen two Earls address each other as Lord so and so except here. The way the Duke addressed his kids didn't sound right as well.
The transitions between scenes don't flow smoothly. Why would you put a conversation about the hero's estrangement with his father right after a love scene? It doesn't make sense. The emotions go up and down within the course of a conversation, it was difficult to follow.
The deus ex machina of that duel that killed the villain is an unsatisfactory way of resolving the main conflict. Also, the villain is a caricature. He's not a compelling character, he was just a prop necessary to follow the formula.
Some of the word selections (gavotting?) and phrasing (... the Duke overtook the room ...) are awkward, but that's nitpicking and may have been changed already.
Overall, The Bride Who Got Lucky is a good read.
NetGalley requested my honest review of this advance copy.
I liked that the heroine Lady Emma is very passionate about her causes - her fight to get justice for the death of her friend Lena and her desire to help women in need by setting up a bank. I liked that she's brave and that she loves to read.
I liked that Nick is a self-made man, that he amassed his own fortune. I liked that he is so protective of Emma even though he kept fighting his feelings for her. It is admirable that he stands firm on his principles and is not wishy-washy.
I appreciate that Ms. MacGregor has them waiting until they got married to consummate their relationship.
I also liked that the whole family gets involved and although I haven't read the first book, I appreciate that the story of Alex and Claire gets an update.
There are things that are questionable. The reason for Emma's banishment is flimsy. Getting caught sneaking off to meet someone to buy a rare book from him is hardly worth the punishment she received. Nobody outside of the family knew about it so there wasn't any scandal.
The forms of address among the nobility are inconsistent. I've read hundreds of historical novels and never have I seen two Earls address each other as Lord so and so except here. The way the Duke addressed his kids didn't sound right as well.
The transitions between scenes don't flow smoothly. Why would you put a conversation about the hero's estrangement with his father right after a love scene? It doesn't make sense. The emotions go up and down within the course of a conversation, it was difficult to follow.
The deus ex machina of that duel that killed the villain is an unsatisfactory way of resolving the main conflict. Also, the villain is a caricature. He's not a compelling character, he was just a prop necessary to follow the formula.
Some of the word selections (gavotting?) and phrasing (... the Duke overtook the room ...) are awkward, but that's nitpicking and may have been changed already.
Overall, The Bride Who Got Lucky is a good read.
NetGalley requested my honest review of this advance copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2017
This is Janna MacGregor’s second book and I loved it as much as the first one. It can be read without reading the first book in this series though some of the characters from The Bad Luck Bride appear in this one. Lady Emma Cavensham loves to read and covets rare books. While sneaking off to buy a rare book, she is stopped by reclusive Nick St. Mauer, Earl of Somerton. Her cousin Claire has sent Nick to find her and prevent a scandal. (Nick’s best friend is Claire’s husband Alex.) As punishment, her parents are sending her to their country estate, but before she leaves Nick gives her his copy of the book she was trying to obtain and her first kiss.
Nick is the Duke of Renton’s son and heir, but they have been estranged since Nick was sent to school as a child. Nick’s goal is to amass more money than his father and never let anyone into his heart.
Three years later, Emma is grieving the death of her best friend, Lena, who fell down the stairs while pregnant. Emma believes Lena’s husband killed her and is determined to find proof as Lena’s brother is off fighting Napoleon. Emma wants justice for Lena. She sneaks off to Portsmouth to find Lena’s maid and while dining at an inn, Lena’s husband threatens her. Nick has discovered where she went and follows her. Found by her brothers in her room at the inn, they inform her she’ll have to marry Nick. Emma has her own ideas of what she’d like to do but Nick convinces her to wed.
There is a lot more going on in this book and I hope I’ve said enough to entice you to read it without ruining the story. I highly recommend this book. Best line: “Books could take you on the grandest adventures.” Thanks to Janna and her publisher for giving me this ARC. No one asked me to write a review.
Nick is the Duke of Renton’s son and heir, but they have been estranged since Nick was sent to school as a child. Nick’s goal is to amass more money than his father and never let anyone into his heart.
Three years later, Emma is grieving the death of her best friend, Lena, who fell down the stairs while pregnant. Emma believes Lena’s husband killed her and is determined to find proof as Lena’s brother is off fighting Napoleon. Emma wants justice for Lena. She sneaks off to Portsmouth to find Lena’s maid and while dining at an inn, Lena’s husband threatens her. Nick has discovered where she went and follows her. Found by her brothers in her room at the inn, they inform her she’ll have to marry Nick. Emma has her own ideas of what she’d like to do but Nick convinces her to wed.
There is a lot more going on in this book and I hope I’ve said enough to entice you to read it without ruining the story. I highly recommend this book. Best line: “Books could take you on the grandest adventures.” Thanks to Janna and her publisher for giving me this ARC. No one asked me to write a review.
October 21, 2017
The Bride Who Got Lucky was an absolutely charming romance featuring a strong-willed heroine, a noble hero and a quest for justice.
Nicholas St. Mauer, at the behest of his friend Lord Pembrooke, keeps an eye on Lady Emma Cavensham who has a tendency to get herself into unfortunate situations despite her innocent intentions. While Emma admires the reclusive Earl's efforts, she doesn't need a man to look after her and simply wishes to go about her business in her own way. However, while seeking to avenge the death of her best friend Lena, Emma is caught in a compromising position and the Earl may be the only one who can help her.
Emma is firm in her belief that women should have a better place in society and sets out with the goal of helping women have more choice in their lives. I admired her goal of opening a bank for women and enjoyed watching her work towards her goal. Emma feels a lot of grief over the fact she couldn't help her best friend escape her marriage and I understand why she would be so stubborn about righting the wrong of her death. Her anger over Lena's death also gives weight to Emma's fear of marriage and helped me understand why she felt the way she did.
Nick was cut off by his father after a misunderstanding in his youth and has dedicated his life to becoming a successful businessman with the goal of surpassing his father's wealth. This confrontation with his father also reinforced Nick's beliefs about cutting those who wronged him out of his life. Nick became an incredibly reserved individual and he avoids closeness with anyone in order to avoid ever being hurt again.
At the start of the story, we see the onset of Emma and Nick's friendship that builds naturally over the course of the book. Nick is intrigued by Emma's spirit from their first meeting and Emma sees in Nick a kindred spirit willing to fight for what they believe at all costs. Their friendship was one of my favorite aspects of their relationship as romance couples don't always start off with that foundation. From the start Emma and Nick have great chemistry and an attraction that's obvious to anyone but them. When things progress the physical aspects are very steamy and incredibly well done.
Overall, The Bride Who Got Lucky was a very past-paced read that improves upon the first book in the series and I can't wait for the third book in the series, The Luck of the Bride, to release next year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Nicholas St. Mauer, at the behest of his friend Lord Pembrooke, keeps an eye on Lady Emma Cavensham who has a tendency to get herself into unfortunate situations despite her innocent intentions. While Emma admires the reclusive Earl's efforts, she doesn't need a man to look after her and simply wishes to go about her business in her own way. However, while seeking to avenge the death of her best friend Lena, Emma is caught in a compromising position and the Earl may be the only one who can help her.
Emma is firm in her belief that women should have a better place in society and sets out with the goal of helping women have more choice in their lives. I admired her goal of opening a bank for women and enjoyed watching her work towards her goal. Emma feels a lot of grief over the fact she couldn't help her best friend escape her marriage and I understand why she would be so stubborn about righting the wrong of her death. Her anger over Lena's death also gives weight to Emma's fear of marriage and helped me understand why she felt the way she did.
Nick was cut off by his father after a misunderstanding in his youth and has dedicated his life to becoming a successful businessman with the goal of surpassing his father's wealth. This confrontation with his father also reinforced Nick's beliefs about cutting those who wronged him out of his life. Nick became an incredibly reserved individual and he avoids closeness with anyone in order to avoid ever being hurt again.
At the start of the story, we see the onset of Emma and Nick's friendship that builds naturally over the course of the book. Nick is intrigued by Emma's spirit from their first meeting and Emma sees in Nick a kindred spirit willing to fight for what they believe at all costs. Their friendship was one of my favorite aspects of their relationship as romance couples don't always start off with that foundation. From the start Emma and Nick have great chemistry and an attraction that's obvious to anyone but them. When things progress the physical aspects are very steamy and incredibly well done.
Overall, The Bride Who Got Lucky was a very past-paced read that improves upon the first book in the series and I can't wait for the third book in the series, The Luck of the Bride, to release next year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
October 28, 2017
Emma is a wild, independent character, allowed to be so by her parents. She has known Nick for a while although only on the sidelines of her most recent years. However, when he intercepts one of her wild adventures and the repercussions have her sent off during the season, they find themselves afterwards growing a bit closer.
Now that Emma is seeking justice as well as absolution for her best friend’s death, Nick is adamant that he will stop her from her foolishness. The end result is not what either anticipated but what both ultimately desire.
I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters. Emma needed to be free to help women who suffered and Nick was capable of giving her that freedom up to a point. However, when it crosses a line that he dug into the sand as a young man, they both struggle to find a solution to their uncompromising ways.
The first three-fourths of this book was quite entertaining and I adored getting to know not only the main characters, but the secondary ones sprinkled throughout. However, I did anticipate some action as the story progressed and was disappointed to find that this was all character driven. The resulting answers to their issues were all based on how they evolved as individuals as well as a couple. Many readers will love it but I just needed a little more “oomph” to my story.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
Dual POV
Safe
Possible Triggers – heroine’s best friend was abused by her husband
Now that Emma is seeking justice as well as absolution for her best friend’s death, Nick is adamant that he will stop her from her foolishness. The end result is not what either anticipated but what both ultimately desire.
I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters. Emma needed to be free to help women who suffered and Nick was capable of giving her that freedom up to a point. However, when it crosses a line that he dug into the sand as a young man, they both struggle to find a solution to their uncompromising ways.
The first three-fourths of this book was quite entertaining and I adored getting to know not only the main characters, but the secondary ones sprinkled throughout. However, I did anticipate some action as the story progressed and was disappointed to find that this was all character driven. The resulting answers to their issues were all based on how they evolved as individuals as well as a couple. Many readers will love it but I just needed a little more “oomph” to my story.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
Dual POV
Safe
Possible Triggers – heroine’s best friend was abused by her husband
September 5, 2017
BUY BUY BUY BUY BUY BOOK!
Riveting, enthralling, sweet, funny, touching, ... it has it all!
This novel was one that has every single level you could desire in a great great book! From it touching every single one of my emotions to the way it caught held and captivated me in reading. I was touched by the way it portrayed a horrible side of even now domestic violence but still keeping the focus on important issues. From the start to the finish I was enthralled by the way the writer has of forming the movie pictures in my mind while reading. My heart was totally happy at the end and I will be rereading this book for another wonderful night of enjoyment. I will also keep my eyes on this author for more! I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom
Riveting, enthralling, sweet, funny, touching, ... it has it all!
This novel was one that has every single level you could desire in a great great book! From it touching every single one of my emotions to the way it caught held and captivated me in reading. I was touched by the way it portrayed a horrible side of even now domestic violence but still keeping the focus on important issues. From the start to the finish I was enthralled by the way the writer has of forming the movie pictures in my mind while reading. My heart was totally happy at the end and I will be rereading this book for another wonderful night of enjoyment. I will also keep my eyes on this author for more! I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom
October 31, 2017
I know I am in the minority here, but I did not care for this book.
Basically the heroine Emma (cousin to Claire from the previous book) is on a mission. Her dearest friend Lena has died and Emma believes Lena’s husband is responsible. Emma is determined to bring the man to justice, single handedly if necessary. Once she has accomplished this, she wants to open a bank that serves only women, thus giving them a way to be independent.
Unable to ignore a death she feels partially responsible for, Emma asks her parents and brothers for help. But when they tell her to let it go, she ends up makes one bad decision after another.
Nick, Earl of Somerton and heir to the Duke of Renton also is on a mission, his one and only desire in life is to make a fortune greater than his estranged father’s and then flaunt it in his father’s face. He doesn’t have time for nonsense or for a wife - but thanks to Emma’s inability to stay out of trouble, he is going to end up with both.
When Nick saves Emma (yet again) from herself, they are caught in an inn together and to save their reputations, marry.
As wedding present Nick gave her the funds needed to start her bank and it seems like Emma has matured and has come to peace with Lena’s death. That is, until she doesn’t get her way then her true colors come out.
I personally found Emma to be one of the most annoying and manipulative heroines I have ever read. And while the story had potential, the execution fell flat. The plot was flimsy and at times down right unbelievable. Nick was the one high point in this book, if not for him, I may have broken my own steadfast ARC rule and not finished the book.
In the previous book, I felt like the author added too many elements and the story ended up being too busy. In this book she managed to stay on point, but the plot line she choose just didn’t work for me - it was not true to the era and was riddled with contradictions. I am not sure if I would be willing to read the next book in the series, but I do know that I would not be conformable recommending this book to my friends.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an UNCORRECTED ARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
Basically the heroine Emma (cousin to Claire from the previous book) is on a mission. Her dearest friend Lena has died and Emma believes Lena’s husband is responsible. Emma is determined to bring the man to justice, single handedly if necessary. Once she has accomplished this, she wants to open a bank that serves only women, thus giving them a way to be independent.
Unable to ignore a death she feels partially responsible for, Emma asks her parents and brothers for help. But when they tell her to let it go, she ends up makes one bad decision after another.
Nick, Earl of Somerton and heir to the Duke of Renton also is on a mission, his one and only desire in life is to make a fortune greater than his estranged father’s and then flaunt it in his father’s face. He doesn’t have time for nonsense or for a wife - but thanks to Emma’s inability to stay out of trouble, he is going to end up with both.
When Nick saves Emma (yet again) from herself, they are caught in an inn together and to save their reputations, marry.
As wedding present Nick gave her the funds needed to start her bank and it seems like Emma has matured and has come to peace with Lena’s death. That is, until she doesn’t get her way then her true colors come out.
I personally found Emma to be one of the most annoying and manipulative heroines I have ever read. And while the story had potential, the execution fell flat. The plot was flimsy and at times down right unbelievable. Nick was the one high point in this book, if not for him, I may have broken my own steadfast ARC rule and not finished the book.
In the previous book, I felt like the author added too many elements and the story ended up being too busy. In this book she managed to stay on point, but the plot line she choose just didn’t work for me - it was not true to the era and was riddled with contradictions. I am not sure if I would be willing to read the next book in the series, but I do know that I would not be conformable recommending this book to my friends.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an UNCORRECTED ARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
October 29, 2017
I'm bedazzled!
Oh my! I loved this. I adored the intelligent, stubborn Lady Emma Cavensham trying to find justice for her dead friend Lady Lena Eaton.
I was smitten with the damaged the Earl of Somerton, Nicholas St. Mauer who had been alone and rejected from an early age. It was after a terrible encounter with his father at Eaton, that Alex Pembrooke interfered when Nick was being bullied by other students. This later becomes the doorway into to a relationship with Pembrooke and Emma's family.
Rejection by his father, Drake St. Mauer, the Duke of Renton, has put Nick onto the trajectory of desiring to surpass his father’s wealth and to isolate himself from the hurt of meaningful relationships. He has decided to not marry. Nick focuses all his attention on the acquisition of wealth. He engages in trade to do with merchant ships and their cargoes, and purchases ships for new trade routes. Vengeance would be sweet. 'He could taste victory.'
I love the sometimes dim witted (where Emma's concerned), but fiercely loyal men of the Cavensham family. Their presence is a wonderful addition to the story.
Lord Somerton keeps encountering Emma on her forays into what could be dangerous, or at the very least scandalous places, and coming to her rescue, or imposing rescue on her, whichever fits the bill. His thwarting of Emma frustrates her. The repartee they engage in is amusing and invigorating. I loved Emma's thoughts after the first such encounter, When 'his laughter followed her all the way to her carriage. Insufferable cur.'
When Emma is driven to investigate her dearest friend Lena's husband, the despicable, hateful Lord Aulton, to make him pay for Lena's murder its Somerset who keeps rescuing Emma from her own fearlessness. With her brothers and father just a few paces behind.
These rescues ultimately takes a course that is in keeping with the times.
The last scenes left me somewhat teary with happiness.
As far as I'm concerned this is a rare winner in the regency romance stakes, complete with intrigue, interest and wonderful lead characters.
A NetGalley ARC
Oh my! I loved this. I adored the intelligent, stubborn Lady Emma Cavensham trying to find justice for her dead friend Lady Lena Eaton.
I was smitten with the damaged the Earl of Somerton, Nicholas St. Mauer who had been alone and rejected from an early age. It was after a terrible encounter with his father at Eaton, that Alex Pembrooke interfered when Nick was being bullied by other students. This later becomes the doorway into to a relationship with Pembrooke and Emma's family.
Rejection by his father, Drake St. Mauer, the Duke of Renton, has put Nick onto the trajectory of desiring to surpass his father’s wealth and to isolate himself from the hurt of meaningful relationships. He has decided to not marry. Nick focuses all his attention on the acquisition of wealth. He engages in trade to do with merchant ships and their cargoes, and purchases ships for new trade routes. Vengeance would be sweet. 'He could taste victory.'
I love the sometimes dim witted (where Emma's concerned), but fiercely loyal men of the Cavensham family. Their presence is a wonderful addition to the story.
Lord Somerton keeps encountering Emma on her forays into what could be dangerous, or at the very least scandalous places, and coming to her rescue, or imposing rescue on her, whichever fits the bill. His thwarting of Emma frustrates her. The repartee they engage in is amusing and invigorating. I loved Emma's thoughts after the first such encounter, When 'his laughter followed her all the way to her carriage. Insufferable cur.'
When Emma is driven to investigate her dearest friend Lena's husband, the despicable, hateful Lord Aulton, to make him pay for Lena's murder its Somerset who keeps rescuing Emma from her own fearlessness. With her brothers and father just a few paces behind.
These rescues ultimately takes a course that is in keeping with the times.
The last scenes left me somewhat teary with happiness.
As far as I'm concerned this is a rare winner in the regency romance stakes, complete with intrigue, interest and wonderful lead characters.
A NetGalley ARC
September 30, 2017
I love reading historical, regency romances just for the pure enjoyment of it. If the author captures my interest from the start, and the book has me neglecting other things because I just can't seem to put it down, or I refuse to go to bed til the wee hours of the morning, I think it's pretty much a winner. "The Bride Who Got Lucky" was that and more! Great story, well written, with so much to offer. Just the right mixture of passion, drama, danger, and most important, love and romance.
Emma is such a strong beautiful lady, a true champion of women who find themselves alone with no one in their corner. Nick is an honorable gentleman, with a kind heart and giving spirit. He's a friend to the Langham family, so their early interaction is one of social meetings, a growing physical attraction, and combative, yet somewhat flirtatious, banter resulting from his natural inclination to protect her from what he sees as her own independent recklessness. They each have deep emotional struggles that will threaten the feelings beginning to build between them.
I love the layers and depths to this writer's characters, not only with the H/h, but also those within the circle of family and friends appearing in this and the first of this series. Enjoyed the interactions among all these amazing characters. A great read from the beginning to the turn of the last page.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. Definitely recommend reading, and anxious for what comes next with The Cavensham Heiresses.
Emma is such a strong beautiful lady, a true champion of women who find themselves alone with no one in their corner. Nick is an honorable gentleman, with a kind heart and giving spirit. He's a friend to the Langham family, so their early interaction is one of social meetings, a growing physical attraction, and combative, yet somewhat flirtatious, banter resulting from his natural inclination to protect her from what he sees as her own independent recklessness. They each have deep emotional struggles that will threaten the feelings beginning to build between them.
I love the layers and depths to this writer's characters, not only with the H/h, but also those within the circle of family and friends appearing in this and the first of this series. Enjoyed the interactions among all these amazing characters. A great read from the beginning to the turn of the last page.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. Definitely recommend reading, and anxious for what comes next with The Cavensham Heiresses.
August 24, 2017
The Bride Who Got Lucky is an interesting, fast-paced historical romance featuring a strong-spirited, soft-hearted heroine and a hero who grows to support her.
Lady Emma Cavensham is an atypical society lady. She has a passion for rare (and sometimes forbidden) books and a strong desire to support struggling women in society gain independence from the terrifying men in their lives. Nicholas St. Mauer grew up rejected by his father and has since become wildly successful, channeling his anger and bitterness into amassing a huge fortune. The two run across each other when Nick's friend (Emma's brother-in-law) sends him to prevent Emma from making a dangerous meeting...to purchase a rare book. The two grow to learn and respect one another as they both battle their demons.
I enjoyed this historical romance mainly because it took a stab at exploring how truly bound women at the time were to the men in their lives, for better or for worse. The heroine was strong willed and knew her mind, even as she exposed her vulnerabilities. The hero supported her unconventional dreams and wild ideas and allowed her to challenge him. It was a good, heart-warming read and was quick-paced so makes a great fast read.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
Lady Emma Cavensham is an atypical society lady. She has a passion for rare (and sometimes forbidden) books and a strong desire to support struggling women in society gain independence from the terrifying men in their lives. Nicholas St. Mauer grew up rejected by his father and has since become wildly successful, channeling his anger and bitterness into amassing a huge fortune. The two run across each other when Nick's friend (Emma's brother-in-law) sends him to prevent Emma from making a dangerous meeting...to purchase a rare book. The two grow to learn and respect one another as they both battle their demons.
I enjoyed this historical romance mainly because it took a stab at exploring how truly bound women at the time were to the men in their lives, for better or for worse. The heroine was strong willed and knew her mind, even as she exposed her vulnerabilities. The hero supported her unconventional dreams and wild ideas and allowed her to challenge him. It was a good, heart-warming read and was quick-paced so makes a great fast read.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
April 4, 2019
Janna MacGregor's novels in this series are gradually getting close to book 5, my highest rating. This was a nice comfortable read with very good narration.
November 2, 2017
5+ STARS!
One of those rare books that touched all of my emotions. It made me laugh, cry, swoon, and left me with a heartfelt happily-ever-after. I fell so deep in love with Emma and Nick. MacGregor has written a beautiful, spellbinding story to rival my favorites by Lisa Kleypas and Eloisa James.
I completely connected with Emma. When she was frustrated, so was I. When she was angry, so was I. And when she swooned, falling in ocean-deep love with Nick Somerton, SO DID I. He is the perfect combination of gentlemen and alpha male, trying to resist his woman, and failing miserably. I loved every single minute of this one. Another winner by MacGregor! And I cannot WAIT for the next one.
Recommended to any and every historical romance lover.
One of those rare books that touched all of my emotions. It made me laugh, cry, swoon, and left me with a heartfelt happily-ever-after. I fell so deep in love with Emma and Nick. MacGregor has written a beautiful, spellbinding story to rival my favorites by Lisa Kleypas and Eloisa James.
I completely connected with Emma. When she was frustrated, so was I. When she was angry, so was I. And when she swooned, falling in ocean-deep love with Nick Somerton, SO DID I. He is the perfect combination of gentlemen and alpha male, trying to resist his woman, and failing miserably. I loved every single minute of this one. Another winner by MacGregor! And I cannot WAIT for the next one.
Recommended to any and every historical romance lover.
gave-it-a-shot
December 8, 2017I received this book via a Goodreads Giveaway.
I tried to suffer through this but between the extremely choppy writing, the lackadaisical characterization, and the shoddy world-building, the only correct verb was truly suffer.
I tried to suffer through this but between the extremely choppy writing, the lackadaisical characterization, and the shoddy world-building, the only correct verb was truly suffer.
September 20, 2017
What a delightful book! Ms. MacGregor has a flair for creating real characters--their wants, passions, regrets and mistakes. I loved Nick, Earl of Somerton. He had been treated horribly by his cruel father, the Duke of Renton, as a child, but Nick was a survivor and when he grew older, he built a trading empire that made him a very wealthy man. Lots of money and no one to share it with, that is, until he meets Emma Cavensham. With her brother as one of his best friends, he was present at many Cavensham's family events and his admiration for the strong-willed Emma grew. When a scandal threatens to ruin her, Nick steps up and weds her.
The book kept my interest throughout and I eagerly kept turning the pages to find out what would befall Emma and Nick next. I was not disappointed as Ms. MacGregor painted a masterful stroke of Nick and Emma's relationship. Their passion for each other was undeniable, but even with great love comes misunderstandings and heartache. Would Nick ever learn how to open his heart and fully embrace Emma as his wife and partner in life? Fans of Regency romance will definitely enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 31, 2017
The Bride Who Got Lucky by Janna MacGregor is one of those books that grabbed my heart and gave it a good squeeze. For me those are rare and she had me on an emotional roller coaster throughout the whole story, and thankfully a teary eye happy ending. She has created a heroine who knows her own mind and stands by her convictions. Emma Caversham wants her life to mean something beyond the marriage mart of the aristocracy, and does what she can to avenge the death of her good friend Lena. Nicholas St. Mauer aka the Earl of Somerton has become acquainted with Emma and finds her fascinating and has been to her aid to keep her out of harm’s and scandal’s way. He likes his solitude life and Emma is a nice diversion but he isn’t cut out for marriage. Or is he?
Emma and Nicholas/Nick were characters that were evenly matched because they didn’t always conform to social norms and sparred with one another, and even did the unexpected. Emma was filled with guilt and needed to do everything in her power to get justice for her friend’s death and alieve the guilt she feels for her part in it. Nicholas has been driven by a singular purpose ever since his father cut him from his life. No one was going to get in his way of topping his father, even if Emma needs him more than ever. Love came slowly for these two because they had been friends for so long and never wanted to marry ever, so they never looked at the other that way. Emma has always been surrounded by love and didn’t need that in her life from a man or marriage. She was surprised how it enriched her life more than she thought possible. Nick didn’t recognize it and didn’t know how to react to it or deal with it. What I really liked about Nicholas is the fact that he cared so much for Emma and her beliefs he went to extreme measures to give her what she wanted in life; a bank.
Janna MacGregor is a new voice in historical romance and is off to a resounding great start. She has created wonderful and compelling characters and delves into relevant and interesting topics, women’s rights and spousal abuse, worth writing about. I had the pleasure of meeting her recently when she was promoting book one, The Bad Luck Bride, and was an unknown. I can’t wait to meet her again and let her know how much I love her writing and the feelings she invokes with her stories. Any fan of historical should give them a try. You will fall in love just like I did.
September 24, 2017
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is pretty much your typical Historical Romance novel. The author does try to give the book a little uniqueness but making the heroine a feminist but other than that the plot formula is the same. It's the second in the series and while there are mentions of events from the first book you don't have to have actually read the first book.
The plot is familiar but the writing is good. If you pick this up looking for an easy read you won't be disappointed.
This is pretty much your typical Historical Romance novel. The author does try to give the book a little uniqueness but making the heroine a feminist but other than that the plot formula is the same. It's the second in the series and while there are mentions of events from the first book you don't have to have actually read the first book.
The plot is familiar but the writing is good. If you pick this up looking for an easy read you won't be disappointed.
November 8, 2017
This is the second book that I have read by Janna McGregor. Her debut novel and first book in this series impressed me with her use of language and depth of emotion in the characters. This time, she brings those strengths to this book and adds a captivating plot with a mystery and revenge. Oh, and feminists! Read on.
The Story-
Emma is desperate to prove that her best friend's death was not an accident and to make sure the man responsible pays for his sins, but she might get in a bit over her head on this quest for revenge. Nick has something to prove to himself and to society, but whenever he is around Emma, his guard is down and he just wants to protect her. When she sets off on a mysterious scheme, he is compelled to do what he can to keep her safe.
My Thoughts-
What a heroine! Emma knows her own mind and what she wants, and will stop at nothing to get it. She is a feminist; she actually reminded me of some Courtney Milan heroines with her intelligence, self-worth, and passion. Sometimes she gets a little stubborn, but isn't that how real people are? I love how Nick is so completely smitten by her that it changes him and makes him a better man in her presence. My only critique is that I would have liked to see the bad guy get his due in a more drastic, on-screen, fulfilling way, But, I like paranormal where the bad guy usually gets decapitated or something, so maybe that's just my bloodlust talking. The heat level of this book is very nice for historical; there is one scene in particular that is so sensual and surprising... Don't be fooled by the blushing bride on the cover. (wink) The character development and the development of the relationship is what I believe McGregor is best at, and she does it so well here. This is not one of those books where you wonder if they are right for one another or if they are only physically attracted to each other. The romance is built like a well-constructed tower to the point where you know they are the perfect fit, and no one else would do.
The Bottom Line-
I am so excited that this new historical writer has answered a wonderful debut with an even more enjoyable follow-up. I will be reading Janna McGregor for years to come, and if you like historical romance, you should too. 5 stars
The Story-
Emma is desperate to prove that her best friend's death was not an accident and to make sure the man responsible pays for his sins, but she might get in a bit over her head on this quest for revenge. Nick has something to prove to himself and to society, but whenever he is around Emma, his guard is down and he just wants to protect her. When she sets off on a mysterious scheme, he is compelled to do what he can to keep her safe.
My Thoughts-
What a heroine! Emma knows her own mind and what she wants, and will stop at nothing to get it. She is a feminist; she actually reminded me of some Courtney Milan heroines with her intelligence, self-worth, and passion. Sometimes she gets a little stubborn, but isn't that how real people are? I love how Nick is so completely smitten by her that it changes him and makes him a better man in her presence. My only critique is that I would have liked to see the bad guy get his due in a more drastic, on-screen, fulfilling way, But, I like paranormal where the bad guy usually gets decapitated or something, so maybe that's just my bloodlust talking. The heat level of this book is very nice for historical; there is one scene in particular that is so sensual and surprising... Don't be fooled by the blushing bride on the cover. (wink) The character development and the development of the relationship is what I believe McGregor is best at, and she does it so well here. This is not one of those books where you wonder if they are right for one another or if they are only physically attracted to each other. The romance is built like a well-constructed tower to the point where you know they are the perfect fit, and no one else would do.
The Bottom Line-
I am so excited that this new historical writer has answered a wonderful debut with an even more enjoyable follow-up. I will be reading Janna McGregor for years to come, and if you like historical romance, you should too. 5 stars
October 31, 2017
I love Janna MacGregor books and I already can't wait for the third book. This the second book in the Cavensham Heiresses its about the Emma Cavensham and friend of the family Nick, the Earl of Somerton. Nick is the sone of a cold hearted duke and he is not accepted in society. But he feels that he has to watch out for Emma Cavensham. Emma really likes the earls attention but she does not need a man. She is still mourning her friend Lena death and she thinks Lena husband is responsible for her death. I really loved the twists and turns of the book and I will be reading the whole series again and again.
August 19, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel was a great read and I could not put it down!! I enjoyed this novel much more so than the first novel in the series. You do not need to read the first novel, but if you want some background about the supporting characters, you can read it. I love how the author incorporated a strong, independent woman with a strong, independent man. Both had different goals there were trying to achieve, but their determination to do so was an entertaining match.
Lady Emma Cavensham is the daughter of a duke and believes woman should have the same rights as men. During this time, woman are treated like possessions and have to obey their husbands. When Emma learns of her friend Lena's death, along with Lena's child, she seeks justice against Lena's husband based on information she received. She keeps pursuing this, which draws the attention of Nicholas St. Mauer, Earl of Somerton.
Nick grew up without love, since his mother died in childbirth and his father wanted nothing to do with him. Nick's past has greatly affected his current life. Until he can comes to terms with people from his past, he will not achieve what he desires most. Nick made a vow he would make it on his own and his fortunes would surpass his father's. Everything was going to plan, until he met Emma. Emma is like a breathe of fresh air to Nick, one of the few people he truly cares about. However, Emma swears off marriage, seeing the independence it takes away from women. Nick has no intentions of marrying either. However, due to Emma's persistence in Lena's death, Emma and Nick find themselves getting married to avoid a scandal, even though the ignite the passion in each other. With neither willing to compromise, it leads to a battle of wills when Nick's past interferes with Emma's work to help women who find themselves in troubling situations. Their love for each other is there, even if they do not admit to each other, but will their stubborn natures end their relationship before it truly has begun?
This novel was a great read and I could not put it down!! I enjoyed this novel much more so than the first novel in the series. You do not need to read the first novel, but if you want some background about the supporting characters, you can read it. I love how the author incorporated a strong, independent woman with a strong, independent man. Both had different goals there were trying to achieve, but their determination to do so was an entertaining match.
Lady Emma Cavensham is the daughter of a duke and believes woman should have the same rights as men. During this time, woman are treated like possessions and have to obey their husbands. When Emma learns of her friend Lena's death, along with Lena's child, she seeks justice against Lena's husband based on information she received. She keeps pursuing this, which draws the attention of Nicholas St. Mauer, Earl of Somerton.
Nick grew up without love, since his mother died in childbirth and his father wanted nothing to do with him. Nick's past has greatly affected his current life. Until he can comes to terms with people from his past, he will not achieve what he desires most. Nick made a vow he would make it on his own and his fortunes would surpass his father's. Everything was going to plan, until he met Emma. Emma is like a breathe of fresh air to Nick, one of the few people he truly cares about. However, Emma swears off marriage, seeing the independence it takes away from women. Nick has no intentions of marrying either. However, due to Emma's persistence in Lena's death, Emma and Nick find themselves getting married to avoid a scandal, even though the ignite the passion in each other. With neither willing to compromise, it leads to a battle of wills when Nick's past interferes with Emma's work to help women who find themselves in troubling situations. Their love for each other is there, even if they do not admit to each other, but will their stubborn natures end their relationship before it truly has begun?
September 28, 2017
A regency era romance that historical nuts may or may not be thrilled with due to storylines that were so obviously not historically accurate (cough*BANK*cough...A bank for and by women is a lovely idea, but in 1814??? It rang totally false for me) but there was such originality in our intelligent, book loving, crusader heroine and our stiff, starch, quietly loyal hero that I was absolutely able to look past this well meaning storyline. Their romance was the type of romance that romantics will love, it was so sweet it really sparkled. And even when they were both overcoming their own, individual neuroses they didn't lose sight of their love for the other person. I admit, I sniffled through a few scenes in this book.
There was an initial awkwardness at being dropped into a story that so obviously did not originate in this book but in one prior. Once I got past that, however, I was able to completely fall in love with this heartfelt romance between a woman ahead of her time and a man wanting to prop her up- not stifle her. Definitely check this one out!
Obviously, this is my first book of the author's but I will absolutely be back for more.
There was an initial awkwardness at being dropped into a story that so obviously did not originate in this book but in one prior. Once I got past that, however, I was able to completely fall in love with this heartfelt romance between a woman ahead of her time and a man wanting to prop her up- not stifle her. Definitely check this one out!
Obviously, this is my first book of the author's but I will absolutely be back for more.
October 3, 2017
Thanks St. Martin's Press and netgalley for this ARC.
Jenna McGregor gets this right all the way! Love the danger, love, and family camaraderie
Jenna McGregor gets this right all the way! Love the danger, love, and family camaraderie
December 9, 2020
Mostly 1811 England and 3 yrs on. The bride did not feel
lucky?!
Lady Emma, dtr of a duke, insisted on her own way. She
wanted: revenge for her friend who died a domestic vio-
lence victim & to establish a bank for women. Nick, an
earl & his sire were estranged. He attended Eaton with
tormenting boys who he assumed would be the same as
adults. He acted bossy toward Emma. Didn't feel the love.
This story had a tad too much angst for me.
lucky?!
Lady Emma, dtr of a duke, insisted on her own way. She
wanted: revenge for her friend who died a domestic vio-
lence victim & to establish a bank for women. Nick, an
earl & his sire were estranged. He attended Eaton with
tormenting boys who he assumed would be the same as
adults. He acted bossy toward Emma. Didn't feel the love.
This story had a tad too much angst for me.
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