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Heart of Enquiry #6
The Gentleman Who Loved Me
In this sweeping finale to USA Today Bestseller Grace Callaway's Heart of Enquiry series, a flawed heroine seeking redemption meets the hero who is everything she needs, but who can't give her the one thing she wants... ~Winner of the Passionate Plume Award~
~Finalist for the Maggie Award for Excellence~ Her Goal is Respectability
The product of her mama's youthful indiscretion, Primrose Kent makes the painful discovery that, in Society's eyes, neither her beauty nor her charm can overcome the fact that she's a bastard--and one with a murky past. After her attempts to gain respectability backfire, Rosie resorts to desperate measures to salvage her reputation. Yet her plan leads to further peril and throws her into the arms of a devilishly attractive man--a stranger who feels achingly familiar... and who will guarantee her ruination... His Business is Scandal
A former prostitute and now the owner of London's most successful pleasure house, Andrew Corbett is certain of one he's no gentleman. His notoriety has never bothered him until he encounters Primrose Kent, the girl he'd once loved like a sister, but who, as a woman, captures his heart in an entirely different way. He'll stop at nothing to protect Rosie from her enemies--but he must also shield her from his own ungovernable desires... Their Attraction is Irresistible... and Dangerous
As Rosie and Andrew struggle to contain their passion and a love too powerful to resist, danger stalks their every move. They must battle not only their present foes but the looming shadows of the past. In their journey to happily ever after, the pair discover that love isn't what you think you want... but what you truly need. Grace's books feature sizzling hot historical romance, fun and feel-good happily ever afters, and intriguing mystery and adventure. This book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel and as a part of Grace's interconnected series. Heart of Enquiry (The Kents)
Prequel The Widow Vanishes (Will & Annabel)
1. The Duke Who Knew Too Much (Alaric & Emma)
2. M is for Marquess (Gabriel & Thea)
3. The Lady Who Came in from the Cold (Marcus & Penny)
4. The Viscount Always Knocks Twice (Richard & Violet)
5. Never Say Never to an Earl (Sinjin & Polly)
6. The Gentleman Who Loved Me (Andrew & Primrose)
Game of Dukes
1. The Duke Identity (Harry & Tessa)
2. Enter the Duke (Ransom & Maggie)
3. Regarding the Duke (Garrity & Gabby)
4. The Duke Redemption (Wickham & Beatrice)
5. The Return of the Duke (Knight & Fancy)
6. Steamy Winter A Hot Historical Romance Short Story (featuring characters from all of Grace's series) Lady Charlotte's Society of Angels
1. Lady Olivia and the Masked Duke (Olivia & Ben)
2. Pippa and the Prince of Secrets (Pippa & Cull)
3. Fiona and the Enigmatic Earl (Fiona & Thomas, Preorder today!)
Mayhem in Mayfair
1. Her Husband's Harlot (Helena & Nicholas)
2. Her Wanton Wager (Percy & Gavin)
3. Her Protector's Pleasure (Marianne & Ambrose)
4. Her Prodigal Passion (Charity & Paul) ~~~
What Readers are "This writer to me is in the leagues of Johanna Lindsey, Lisa Kleypas, Julia Quinn and Amanda Quick.” -Kathie, Amazon Reviews "Grace Callaway writes the way Loretta Chase would if she got kind of dark and VERY naughty.” -Nicole, Goodreads “The Kents remind me so much of the Mallory-Anderson saga from Johanna Lindsey or the Spy series from Julie Garwood. I’ve read those books so many times and now I find myself rereading Grace’s books.” -Vivian, Amazon Reviews
~Finalist for the Maggie Award for Excellence~ Her Goal is Respectability
The product of her mama's youthful indiscretion, Primrose Kent makes the painful discovery that, in Society's eyes, neither her beauty nor her charm can overcome the fact that she's a bastard--and one with a murky past. After her attempts to gain respectability backfire, Rosie resorts to desperate measures to salvage her reputation. Yet her plan leads to further peril and throws her into the arms of a devilishly attractive man--a stranger who feels achingly familiar... and who will guarantee her ruination... His Business is Scandal
A former prostitute and now the owner of London's most successful pleasure house, Andrew Corbett is certain of one he's no gentleman. His notoriety has never bothered him until he encounters Primrose Kent, the girl he'd once loved like a sister, but who, as a woman, captures his heart in an entirely different way. He'll stop at nothing to protect Rosie from her enemies--but he must also shield her from his own ungovernable desires... Their Attraction is Irresistible... and Dangerous
As Rosie and Andrew struggle to contain their passion and a love too powerful to resist, danger stalks their every move. They must battle not only their present foes but the looming shadows of the past. In their journey to happily ever after, the pair discover that love isn't what you think you want... but what you truly need. Grace's books feature sizzling hot historical romance, fun and feel-good happily ever afters, and intriguing mystery and adventure. This book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel and as a part of Grace's interconnected series. Heart of Enquiry (The Kents)
Prequel The Widow Vanishes (Will & Annabel)
1. The Duke Who Knew Too Much (Alaric & Emma)
2. M is for Marquess (Gabriel & Thea)
3. The Lady Who Came in from the Cold (Marcus & Penny)
4. The Viscount Always Knocks Twice (Richard & Violet)
5. Never Say Never to an Earl (Sinjin & Polly)
6. The Gentleman Who Loved Me (Andrew & Primrose)
Game of Dukes
1. The Duke Identity (Harry & Tessa)
2. Enter the Duke (Ransom & Maggie)
3. Regarding the Duke (Garrity & Gabby)
4. The Duke Redemption (Wickham & Beatrice)
5. The Return of the Duke (Knight & Fancy)
6. Steamy Winter A Hot Historical Romance Short Story (featuring characters from all of Grace's series) Lady Charlotte's Society of Angels
1. Lady Olivia and the Masked Duke (Olivia & Ben)
2. Pippa and the Prince of Secrets (Pippa & Cull)
3. Fiona and the Enigmatic Earl (Fiona & Thomas, Preorder today!)
Mayhem in Mayfair
1. Her Husband's Harlot (Helena & Nicholas)
2. Her Wanton Wager (Percy & Gavin)
3. Her Protector's Pleasure (Marianne & Ambrose)
4. Her Prodigal Passion (Charity & Paul) ~~~
What Readers are "This writer to me is in the leagues of Johanna Lindsey, Lisa Kleypas, Julia Quinn and Amanda Quick.” -Kathie, Amazon Reviews "Grace Callaway writes the way Loretta Chase would if she got kind of dark and VERY naughty.” -Nicole, Goodreads “The Kents remind me so much of the Mallory-Anderson saga from Johanna Lindsey or the Spy series from Julie Garwood. I’ve read those books so many times and now I find myself rereading Grace’s books.” -Vivian, Amazon Reviews
358 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2017
242 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Grace Callaway
51 books1,083 followers
Preorder GLORY AND THE MASTER OF SHADOWS (Lady Charlotte's Society of Angels #4) for March 28th!
Put it on your "To Read" shelf ➤
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Don't miss this thrilling new historical romance by USA Today Bestseller Grace Callaway! Set during the Opium Wars, this steamy and spellbinding Charlie’s Angels meets Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon romance will leave you breathless...
Their love is forbidden…and irresistible.
The daughter of a half-Chinese duke and a lady fossil hunter, Lady Glory Cavendish is a free-spirited campaigner for justice. She belongs to a secret society of lady detectives whose goal is to help women in need. During her latest case involving a dastardly dognapping, Glory crosses paths with the handsome and mysterious Wei Chen, a master of healing and martial arts. Fascinated by the noble shifu, Glory convinces him to take her on as a pupil; the more time she spends with him, however, the more she longs for lessons of a more intimate nature.
Master Wei Chen has led a life of discipline focused on a single goal: avenging his murdered kin. His journey takes him to London where, by day, he treats opium users in his East End clinic and, by night, he secretly hunts the villain who destroyed his family. Yet for the first time, temptation distracts Wei: his spirited and lovely new pupil stirs dangerous needs in him. Desires that are forbidden between a shifu and his student…and between a commoner and a duke’s daughter.
As Wei and Glory’s slow-burn romance ignites into fiery passion, they are drawn into a web of betrayal and deceit. Torn between honor and desire, revenge and love, the pair must decide if they will let the past determine their future…or if they will fight the shadows for their chance at happily ever after.
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➤Google Books: https://gracecallaway.com/glorygoogle...
About Grace
USA Today & International Bestselling Author Grace Callaway writes hot and heart-melting historical romance filled with mystery and adventure. Her debut novel was a Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® Finalist and a #1 National Regency Bestseller, and her subsequent novels have topped national and international bestselling lists. She is the winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, the Maggie Award for Excellence in Historical Romance, the Golden Leaf, and the Passionate Plume Award for Historical Novel. She holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan and lives with her family in a valley close to the sea. When she’s not writing, she enjoys dancing, exploring the great outdoors with her rescue pup, and cheering on her favorite basketball team.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 26, 2022
This book was so entirely compelling it has stayed with me for days. Callaway went deep into her main characters hearts and minds in this one and if you missed that, you may want to go for a re-read because there are many layers to this one. One of the most sensual and sensitive historical romances I've read, it will live forever on my keeper shelf. Both the Hero and heroine of this story were captivating as they came to discover each other and their own flawed selves, overcoming their pasts, inner turmoil and allowing themselves to find happiness. Wickedly wild and packed with grit, intrigue, passion, yearning, playfulness, and the quest for understanding. Absolutely brilliant...heartsoaring. A story about survival and creating one's place in the world. I loved it....a wonderful end to a riveting series.
January 2, 2023
I am giving this...5 Blisteringly Forceful Stars.
So... I know people hate this book because of Rosie. I can, kind of, see why. But I've got to say... I'm not on that boat.
It’s been a couple weeks while I digested this book, how it made me feel, and how I think it was executed.
Warning: this review is rambling and effusive with praise and references the entire progression of Callaway’s Kent universe almost completely in the abstract. So, if you haven’t read any of her work, I am sorry. But I recommend you do read her, wholeheartedly!
So yeah. I think this book is actually—excuse my language, but I simply must swear to convey my emotions—fucking brilliant.
I found Rosie’s behaviour an incredibly introspective way to explore the consequences of her mother (Marianne, Her Protector's Pleasure) and Rosie’s choices over the course of the two series (Mayhem in Mayfair and Heart of Enquiry). Because when I think about the decade and a half of dissociative behaviors etc. that Marianne and Primrose engaged in, it is no wonder Rosie is how she is. How would you respond if there was such a hovering question mark that has, rightly so, coloured every aspect of your life and gone glaringly undermentioned, and unresolved ? From her internal attempts to emulate her porcelain doll collection, her total lack of self-worth, her low self-esteem, her fear of commitment… Her pettishness, her selfishness… It all made sense and I thought it was masterful. It was consistently written too: this internal dialogue of the constantly feeling a sense of insecurity and need to mask it. And as the story progresses, Rosie doesn’t change per say—I think she will always be a little vain, a little daft as Andrew says etc. etc.—but she confronts those aspects of herself, accepts them, and then embraces the better parts of herself that she doesn’t think exist. And I think that is the best sort of character development. I don’t know, I enjoyed being frustrated with Rosie because then when she would visualize fine porcelain and shake off bad thoughts, I’d remember Rosie is very traumatized and very sad. Then I’d feel sad for her. And then when Rosie felt her love for Andrew, I felt that too. When she was afraid, I understood. Like, Rosie is intentionally written as fickle. It wasn’t a consequence of sloppy writing (Ahem…The Heiress Hunt, and my very angry review) but was intentionally done (that was my feeling, anyways). And for me, it yanked at my heart, squashed it, slapped it around. When I read the epilogue, it was so fulfilling and earned.
Andrew too, was this beautifully written character who is—yes, a pimp—but quintessentially good. Steady. A lot like Ambrose (Rosie's stepfather, Her Protector's Pleasure), but in my opinion, even better. That Andrew is the person that helps her through everything, made complete sense because like Rosie says, they are more alike that one might think.
I seriously adored everything about this book, from the meeting to the head-over-heels love Andrew throws himself into, to Rosie’s (I argue, logical) mercuriality and fear, to the various external threats, the conflict…
It could have become bloated with too many plotlines, but I felt it worked here. And to quote Stephen Chbosky, "We accept the love we think we deserve.” This felt very much like an exploration of and overcoming of that reality. It also felt like a case study of how ambiguous people and love can be. In this way, the book reminded me of Eve Pendle’s work (which is sublime btw, but not everyone's cup of HR tea). Now, if you read my reviews, you know I like flawed, three-dimensional characters. Often the characters that loads of readers hate… I love. So, if you don’t think you could handle fickle heroines… I’d say this might not be for you. But if you are like me, you might want to give it a go. I’d say to feel the full impact of this book it is advisable to read through Callaway’s series and work towards this Heart of Enquiry finale. If you love a good cry, this could give you that.
In conclusion, I don’t care if Callaway didn’t write this book as I’ve interpreted it, only that this love story struck me as unique and uniquely poignant. I can’t say I’ve read any other HR with this plot, or these types of characters. It felt deeper than a lot of HR I have read. All I can say is, this is a new favourite and will stick with me for a long while.
So... I know people hate this book because of Rosie. I can, kind of, see why. But I've got to say... I'm not on that boat.
It’s been a couple weeks while I digested this book, how it made me feel, and how I think it was executed.
Warning: this review is rambling and effusive with praise and references the entire progression of Callaway’s Kent universe almost completely in the abstract. So, if you haven’t read any of her work, I am sorry. But I recommend you do read her, wholeheartedly!
So yeah. I think this book is actually—excuse my language, but I simply must swear to convey my emotions—fucking brilliant.
I found Rosie’s behaviour an incredibly introspective way to explore the consequences of her mother (Marianne, Her Protector's Pleasure) and Rosie’s choices over the course of the two series (Mayhem in Mayfair and Heart of Enquiry). Because when I think about the decade and a half of dissociative behaviors etc. that Marianne and Primrose engaged in, it is no wonder Rosie is how she is. How would you respond if there was such a hovering question mark that has, rightly so, coloured every aspect of your life and gone glaringly undermentioned, and unresolved ? From her internal attempts to emulate her porcelain doll collection, her total lack of self-worth, her low self-esteem, her fear of commitment… Her pettishness, her selfishness… It all made sense and I thought it was masterful. It was consistently written too: this internal dialogue of the constantly feeling a sense of insecurity and need to mask it. And as the story progresses, Rosie doesn’t change per say—I think she will always be a little vain, a little daft as Andrew says etc. etc.—but she confronts those aspects of herself, accepts them, and then embraces the better parts of herself that she doesn’t think exist. And I think that is the best sort of character development. I don’t know, I enjoyed being frustrated with Rosie because then when she would visualize fine porcelain and shake off bad thoughts, I’d remember Rosie is very traumatized and very sad. Then I’d feel sad for her. And then when Rosie felt her love for Andrew, I felt that too. When she was afraid, I understood. Like, Rosie is intentionally written as fickle. It wasn’t a consequence of sloppy writing (Ahem…The Heiress Hunt, and my very angry review) but was intentionally done (that was my feeling, anyways). And for me, it yanked at my heart, squashed it, slapped it around. When I read the epilogue, it was so fulfilling and earned.
Andrew too, was this beautifully written character who is—yes, a pimp—but quintessentially good. Steady. A lot like Ambrose (Rosie's stepfather, Her Protector's Pleasure), but in my opinion, even better. That Andrew is the person that helps her through everything, made complete sense because like Rosie says, they are more alike that one might think.
I seriously adored everything about this book, from the meeting to the head-over-heels love Andrew throws himself into, to Rosie’s (I argue, logical) mercuriality and fear, to the various external threats, the conflict…
It could have become bloated with too many plotlines, but I felt it worked here. And to quote Stephen Chbosky, "We accept the love we think we deserve.” This felt very much like an exploration of and overcoming of that reality. It also felt like a case study of how ambiguous people and love can be. In this way, the book reminded me of Eve Pendle’s work (which is sublime btw, but not everyone's cup of HR tea). Now, if you read my reviews, you know I like flawed, three-dimensional characters. Often the characters that loads of readers hate… I love. So, if you don’t think you could handle fickle heroines… I’d say this might not be for you. But if you are like me, you might want to give it a go. I’d say to feel the full impact of this book it is advisable to read through Callaway’s series and work towards this Heart of Enquiry finale. If you love a good cry, this could give you that.
In conclusion, I don’t care if Callaway didn’t write this book as I’ve interpreted it, only that this love story struck me as unique and uniquely poignant. I can’t say I’ve read any other HR with this plot, or these types of characters. It felt deeper than a lot of HR I have read. All I can say is, this is a new favourite and will stick with me for a long while.
June 17, 2021
I don't know how to feel about this one...
First of all since it is the last book of the series, I will say that I definitely recommend it if you're into HR or want to get into it. The Kent siblings are unique and likeable in my opinion. The series does have flaws here and there that's why it might not be one of my favorites...but still just for Ambrose (do men like him even exist?) and Marianne's relationship I may read it again!
Now about Rosie's story...It kind of disappointed me. Not only was it for me to even like Rosie, the fact that the H knew/protected the h since he was 18 and she 4 did not sit right with me... I understand that the whole thing is played as a 'I treated like my sister but now I want to be with her' in the book but so many things did not feel right. It felt like a daughter/father relationship in my opinion. For instance Corbett keeps the doll that she had when she was a kid...a thing a parent would do right? Also, age gaps are not really my thing in general (at least not over 5 years) and this story really proved why. Rosie is just so immature and Corbett again acts like a figure of authority to protect her for herself...
About Rosie, her character really disappointed me. She appeared very selfish and just stupid honestly... I mean she grew up around a loving family, her parents are literally GOALS but she would rather have respectability than a loving husband...I don't get it. Besides the fact that their relationship made me cringe, I find that Rosie did not deserve Corbett. He was already in love with her and did not acknowledge any of her flaws or mistakes...Oh wait he did call her a hussy bc she was flirting with every men she could. yeah idk about that.
Anyway I somehow still enjoyed this book. Callaway's writing definitely is a plus. Looking forward to Harry's story!
First of all since it is the last book of the series, I will say that I definitely recommend it if you're into HR or want to get into it. The Kent siblings are unique and likeable in my opinion. The series does have flaws here and there that's why it might not be one of my favorites...but still just for Ambrose (do men like him even exist?) and Marianne's relationship I may read it again!
Now about Rosie's story...It kind of disappointed me. Not only was it for me to even like Rosie, the fact that the H knew/protected the h since he was 18 and she 4 did not sit right with me... I understand that the whole thing is played as a 'I treated like my sister but now I want to be with her' in the book but so many things did not feel right. It felt like a daughter/father relationship in my opinion. For instance Corbett keeps the doll that she had when she was a kid...a thing a parent would do right? Also, age gaps are not really my thing in general (at least not over 5 years) and this story really proved why. Rosie is just so immature and Corbett again acts like a figure of authority to protect her for herself...
About Rosie, her character really disappointed me. She appeared very selfish and just stupid honestly... I mean she grew up around a loving family, her parents are literally GOALS but she would rather have respectability than a loving husband...I don't get it. Besides the fact that their relationship made me cringe, I find that Rosie did not deserve Corbett. He was already in love with her and did not acknowledge any of her flaws or mistakes...Oh wait he did call her a hussy bc she was flirting with every men she could. yeah idk about that.
Anyway I somehow still enjoyed this book. Callaway's writing definitely is a plus. Looking forward to Harry's story!
May 12, 2019
The only good thing about this book is Andrew. He's dynamic and confident and sure of himself, and he brings up everyone around him.
Primrose is a brat who takes way too long to grow up, and by that time it's too little too late, in my opinion.
Primrose is a brat who takes way too long to grow up, and by that time it's too little too late, in my opinion.
June 15, 2019
4.5 stars
Another one in this series that I have read and re-read! Honestly, this is one of the best HR series out there, so grab these up if you love great plots with complex characters, some elements of suspense/danger, and steamy goodness!
As was revealed earlier in the series, Rosie was kidnapped as a young child by a madam who sold her to the highest bidder, a man who told her that she was his "sweet little girl" all the while waiting for her to get a little older (still disgustingly young though) so that he could "pluck his little flower." Ew. Anyway, she is saved by the combined efforts of her dedicated mother and the man her mother fell in love (former inspector Ambrose Kent) with as he helped her solve the kidnapping case and return Rosie back to where she belonged. The madam who kidnapped her had a paramour --- a young and imminently attractive (not to mention well endowed) man named Andrew who protected Rosie when she was a child and helped reunite her with her mother years ago. Andrew, the son of a prostitute who was "sold" by his mother at age 14 to support them (and later passed away), has since "retired" from his work as a male prostitute and runs a high-class bawdy house with a twist --- he actually cares about and helps his employees by providing them with his protection, offering them safety, and caring for those who end up pregnant like his mother once found herself. He has always cared about Rosie --- first as a sweet and beautiful child he did his best to protect, and now he finds her breathtakingly gorgeous --- and completely off-limits. Rosie is a recently widowed woman whose marriage was never consummated as her titled husband was killed after they eloped. She was not in love with him, but he could offer her something she never had as a bastard daughter: respectability in the eyes of the ton. But now she has a problem -- no one can find out that the marriage was never consummated, so she turns to an old friend to help her with that little problem: Andrew. While Andrew is equal parts shocked and tempted by Rosie's offer, he knows he can never touch something so pure and beautiful. He refuses her time and again, but Rosie is determined to have her way. Will Andrew give in to the irrepressible chemistry between them? Can Rosie ever be satisfied being with a man who cannot provide her with the respect she has sought for so long?
What I liked:
--- Rosie developed as a likeable character (I was a little worried bc she came across as spoiled and immature in the book before this one)
--- How can you not fall in love with a man like Andrew? He came across as classy despite his previous occupation and was a true gentleman
--- Interesting plot with some twists and elements of danger
--- Steamy goodness!
What I didn't like as much:
--- Rosie was a little too hung up on the opinions of others for longer than I felt was reasonable
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Characters --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- nothing graphic (some allusions to prostitution and mistreatment of ladies of the night)
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
(*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all)
Another one in this series that I have read and re-read! Honestly, this is one of the best HR series out there, so grab these up if you love great plots with complex characters, some elements of suspense/danger, and steamy goodness!
As was revealed earlier in the series, Rosie was kidnapped as a young child by a madam who sold her to the highest bidder, a man who told her that she was his "sweet little girl" all the while waiting for her to get a little older (still disgustingly young though) so that he could "pluck his little flower." Ew. Anyway, she is saved by the combined efforts of her dedicated mother and the man her mother fell in love (former inspector Ambrose Kent) with as he helped her solve the kidnapping case and return Rosie back to where she belonged. The madam who kidnapped her had a paramour --- a young and imminently attractive (not to mention well endowed) man named Andrew who protected Rosie when she was a child and helped reunite her with her mother years ago. Andrew, the son of a prostitute who was "sold" by his mother at age 14 to support them (and later passed away), has since "retired" from his work as a male prostitute and runs a high-class bawdy house with a twist --- he actually cares about and helps his employees by providing them with his protection, offering them safety, and caring for those who end up pregnant like his mother once found herself. He has always cared about Rosie --- first as a sweet and beautiful child he did his best to protect, and now he finds her breathtakingly gorgeous --- and completely off-limits. Rosie is a recently widowed woman whose marriage was never consummated as her titled husband was killed after they eloped. She was not in love with him, but he could offer her something she never had as a bastard daughter: respectability in the eyes of the ton. But now she has a problem -- no one can find out that the marriage was never consummated, so she turns to an old friend to help her with that little problem: Andrew. While Andrew is equal parts shocked and tempted by Rosie's offer, he knows he can never touch something so pure and beautiful. He refuses her time and again, but Rosie is determined to have her way. Will Andrew give in to the irrepressible chemistry between them? Can Rosie ever be satisfied being with a man who cannot provide her with the respect she has sought for so long?
What I liked:
--- Rosie developed as a likeable character (I was a little worried bc she came across as spoiled and immature in the book before this one)
--- How can you not fall in love with a man like Andrew? He came across as classy despite his previous occupation and was a true gentleman
--- Interesting plot with some twists and elements of danger
--- Steamy goodness!
What I didn't like as much:
--- Rosie was a little too hung up on the opinions of others for longer than I felt was reasonable
Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Characters --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3.5/5
Violence --- nothing graphic (some allusions to prostitution and mistreatment of ladies of the night)
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
(*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all)
February 21, 2022
i'm really having a hard time finding Grace Callway's book that I enjoy
dnf @20%
dnf @20%
June 24, 2017
This is the first Grace Callaway book I haven't liked.
Primrose is an annoying heroine who is more spoilt harpy than any of the other Kent women.
She is mean, selfish, and careless, and I cannot like her--no matter how much Grace says Primrose has matured or changed.
Also, the romance was an insta-love/lust thing that weakened the tension in the book to dull levels. Andrew got the girl much too easy, which meant the chase was over before midway through the book.
While it was nice to see the Kents and their husbands, I couldn't care less about Primrose or Andrew. Sorry Grace.
Primrose is an annoying heroine who is more spoilt harpy than any of the other Kent women.
She is mean, selfish, and careless, and I cannot like her--no matter how much Grace says Primrose has matured or changed.
Also, the romance was an insta-love/lust thing that weakened the tension in the book to dull levels. Andrew got the girl much too easy, which meant the chase was over before midway through the book.
While it was nice to see the Kents and their husbands, I couldn't care less about Primrose or Andrew. Sorry Grace.
April 13, 2025
Kobo+ Mad About Series Challenge 2024 HRBC. #6 in the Heart of Enquiry Series. Tropes: HR, Regency Romance, Romance/Mystery, Extended Family and Friends, Erotica, Class Difference, Knight in Shining Armor.
MC's h Primrose Kent, daughter of Marianne and Ambrose Kent, Ambrose adopted her when he married Marriane a widow. H Andrew Corbett, Bawdy house owner and helped watch over Primrose when she was a toddler - 4 years of age. He gave her her first doll and has been protecting her reputation from afar.
Couples in this series:
1. The Duke Who Knew Too Much- Alaric McLeod, Duke of Strathaven & Emma Kent (Olivia)
2. M is for Marquess - Gabriel Ridgley, Marquess of Tremont & Dorothea (Thea)Kent ( Gabriel's son Freddy)
3. The Lady Who Came in From the Cold- Marcus Harrington, Marquess of Blackwood & Pandora Harrington ( three sons) not related to the Kents Pandora former spy like Alaric and Gabriel
4. The Viscount Always Knocks Twice - Richard Murray, Viscount Carlisle & Violet Kent (sons (Jamie &)
5. Never Say Never to An Earl - Sinjin Pelham, Earl of Revelstoke & Polly Kent ( son )
6. The Gentleman Who Loved Me - Andrew Corbett & Primrose Kent ( Marianne & Ambrose parents) three children: Miranda, Oliver and Lily- Andrew Knighted.
family at Polly's wedding Olivia(Emma's) and Francesca?
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MC's h Primrose Kent, daughter of Marianne and Ambrose Kent, Ambrose adopted her when he married Marriane a widow. H Andrew Corbett, Bawdy house owner and helped watch over Primrose when she was a toddler - 4 years of age. He gave her her first doll and has been protecting her reputation from afar.
Couples in this series:
1. The Duke Who Knew Too Much- Alaric McLeod, Duke of Strathaven & Emma Kent (Olivia)
2. M is for Marquess - Gabriel Ridgley, Marquess of Tremont & Dorothea (Thea)Kent ( Gabriel's son Freddy)
3. The Lady Who Came in From the Cold- Marcus Harrington, Marquess of Blackwood & Pandora Harrington ( three sons) not related to the Kents Pandora former spy like Alaric and Gabriel
4. The Viscount Always Knocks Twice - Richard Murray, Viscount Carlisle & Violet Kent (sons (Jamie &)
5. Never Say Never to An Earl - Sinjin Pelham, Earl of Revelstoke & Polly Kent ( son )
6. The Gentleman Who Loved Me - Andrew Corbett & Primrose Kent ( Marianne & Ambrose parents) three children: Miranda, Oliver and Lily- Andrew Knighted.
family at Polly's wedding Olivia(Emma's) and Francesca?
********************************************************************************
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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January 1, 2025I’ll have to think about this one.
I enjoy this author’s writing but the h is an acquired taste.
Still think book #5 was the better one in this series.
I enjoy this author’s writing but the h is an acquired taste.
Still think book #5 was the better one in this series.
August 13, 2022
The Gentleman Who Loved Me
3 Stars
Andrew Corbett, a former prostitute and current owner of a successful pleasure house, has never been concerned with his origins, profession, or lack of respectability . . . until now. Due to her questionable birth and murky past, Primrose Kent craves the acceptance of the ton and desires nothing more than marriage to a peer . . . or does she. From their first encounter, Andrew and Rosie struggle against their attraction, but the hearts wants what it wants. Will this unlikely pair overcome the obstacles, both internal and external, to their happiness?
Unfortunately, this is the weakest installment in the series mainly due to the unlikeable heroine. Rosie is selfish, spoiled and immature. While she does eventually learn and grow, this is not enough to compensate for her initial characterization as vain and self-absorbed.
Andrew, in contrast, is a wonderful hero. Strong, resilient, and caring - his only flaw is his love for Rosie, which is incomprehensible. In fact, their entire relationship is problematic considering that he , which adds a somewhat icky tone to their romance.
Unlike the previous books, the mystery takes a back seat to the romance and only begins about 1/3 into the story. It is a pretty straightforward "who-dun-it", and the way the Kents and their spouses rally around Rosie and Andrew is the highlight of the book. Their interactions are a delight.
Overall, not the best but still entertaining. As this series is a spin-off of the Mayhem in Mayfair books, I will be going back to read that one before continuing with the Game of Dukes spin-off.
3 Stars
Andrew Corbett, a former prostitute and current owner of a successful pleasure house, has never been concerned with his origins, profession, or lack of respectability . . . until now. Due to her questionable birth and murky past, Primrose Kent craves the acceptance of the ton and desires nothing more than marriage to a peer . . . or does she. From their first encounter, Andrew and Rosie struggle against their attraction, but the hearts wants what it wants. Will this unlikely pair overcome the obstacles, both internal and external, to their happiness?
Unfortunately, this is the weakest installment in the series mainly due to the unlikeable heroine. Rosie is selfish, spoiled and immature. While she does eventually learn and grow, this is not enough to compensate for her initial characterization as vain and self-absorbed.
Andrew, in contrast, is a wonderful hero. Strong, resilient, and caring - his only flaw is his love for Rosie, which is incomprehensible. In fact, their entire relationship is problematic considering that he , which adds a somewhat icky tone to their romance.
Unlike the previous books, the mystery takes a back seat to the romance and only begins about 1/3 into the story. It is a pretty straightforward "who-dun-it", and the way the Kents and their spouses rally around Rosie and Andrew is the highlight of the book. Their interactions are a delight.
Overall, not the best but still entertaining. As this series is a spin-off of the Mayhem in Mayfair books, I will be going back to read that one before continuing with the Game of Dukes spin-off.
May 17, 2018
I am sorry to see that this is the last book in the Heart of Enquiry series. But I am more sorry that I disliked the heroine Primrose/Rosie Kent. She was an spoiled, selfish narcissi. What a disappointment. I have been waiting for Rosie's story since she was first introduced in her mothers Marianne Draven/Kent story, Her Protector's Pleasure bk 3 in Mayhem in Mayfair series. This is the first time I have read one of Grace Callaway's stories were she wrote and idiot acting lead female character.
The way the story is written you can assume since Rosie didn't have a maiden head by the time she has sex with Andrew Corbett the hero in the story. That she did in fact lose it to her husband on her wedding night when the Earl was found dead in her bed. But the reason for Rosie not having a maiden head is muddled. Andrew believes it is because some women have lost there virginity by horse back riding. That's possible but Rosie never rides horse's in any of the previous stories she is mentioned in and not in her own story. So That stinky old Earl 31 years Her Senior who she said stinks and needs to bath, fat and balding with teeth missing is the one who deflowered her. YUCK!! Rosie eloped with him because she wanted a Title and to be excepted by the Ton but that just went to far. It would have been better if Grace had written in past out and die as soon as he entered there room. This section of the book doesn't work. Its like Grace Callaway couldn't make up her mind of Rosie would be a virgin or not when she fell in love with Andrew and they make Hot Erotic Love.
This story is very Erotic!!
The story is saved by the hero Andrew Corbett who was everything you want to see in the lead male character of the book. He was written very well.
There are murders in the story and an attempted murder on Rosie. It take a bit of listening to the characters who might have committed the murders, but I figured this one out. It was a conversation in the book that sparked my attention. It was a brief statement but it was a clue to the murderer.
The story as a whole was very good but I just wish the author had wrote Rosie like she does all her other female leads. With honesty and integrity. Not a Self Absorbed Brat of a Spinster!!
The way the story is written you can assume since Rosie didn't have a maiden head by the time she has sex with Andrew Corbett the hero in the story. That she did in fact lose it to her husband on her wedding night when the Earl was found dead in her bed. But the reason for Rosie not having a maiden head is muddled. Andrew believes it is because some women have lost there virginity by horse back riding. That's possible but Rosie never rides horse's in any of the previous stories she is mentioned in and not in her own story. So That stinky old Earl 31 years Her Senior who she said stinks and needs to bath, fat and balding with teeth missing is the one who deflowered her. YUCK!! Rosie eloped with him because she wanted a Title and to be excepted by the Ton but that just went to far. It would have been better if Grace had written in past out and die as soon as he entered there room. This section of the book doesn't work. Its like Grace Callaway couldn't make up her mind of Rosie would be a virgin or not when she fell in love with Andrew and they make Hot Erotic Love.
This story is very Erotic!!
The story is saved by the hero Andrew Corbett who was everything you want to see in the lead male character of the book. He was written very well.
There are murders in the story and an attempted murder on Rosie. It take a bit of listening to the characters who might have committed the murders, but I figured this one out. It was a conversation in the book that sparked my attention. It was a brief statement but it was a clue to the murderer.
The story as a whole was very good but I just wish the author had wrote Rosie like she does all her other female leads. With honesty and integrity. Not a Self Absorbed Brat of a Spinster!!
October 27, 2020
Unfortunately, this book was not my cup of tea. For a heroine to be courageous yet daft left me so frustrated. She made the dumbest decisions, drawing the most naiive conclusions and to top it all, her leading man was a guy 14 years her senior, who took care of her from infant to 4 years of age, who saw her as a sister? (She was 4 when he was 18 then they are together in the end?) Sorry but i think that is a little twisted and wrong. I hope this series doesnt end with this book because that was an awful ending. Additonally, there wasnt enough depth with the stories of andrew, his beef with black's son in law (who prevented doctors from helping the prostitutes give birth) or ms fossey. Convoluted, confusing yet shallow backgrounds. How is that possible? So disappointed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2017
I enjoyed the previous books in the series, but I really had a hard time finishing this one. Andrew is an interesting character who I enjoyed but Primrose, what a self-centered, whinny child. And I mean child even though she has had four seasons. Understand that she does have a lot of baggage, being a known illegitimate child of Marianne's, but there is no excuse for the really stupid actions she takes.
Luckily for her, Andrew has been keeping an eye on her, the little girl he once knew. There were so many times that I just wanted see him tell her to "grow up".
This does not take away from the series, which was actually quite good, it was just this book I did not enjoy.
Luckily for her, Andrew has been keeping an eye on her, the little girl he once knew. There were so many times that I just wanted see him tell her to "grow up".
This does not take away from the series, which was actually quite good, it was just this book I did not enjoy.
May 20, 2023
Loved Rosie and Andrew’s story! It is about overcoming the past, accepting it and moving forward. I think the Kent family series is my favorite of Grace Callaway’s books. I love seeing all of the couples and their children. As I have read her next two series, I love see other characters’ stories unfold and their children as well.
did-not-finish
December 28, 2022DNF @ 16%
I am not interested in anything this story is trying to do, and I noticed several plot inconsistencies with what's been said in previous books in this extremely interconnected universe. A miss and a disappointment, but I am not bothering to force myself to finish something that I am certain will not get better for me just for the sake of completeness.
I am not interested in anything this story is trying to do, and I noticed several plot inconsistencies with what's been said in previous books in this extremely interconnected universe. A miss and a disappointment, but I am not bothering to force myself to finish something that I am certain will not get better for me just for the sake of completeness.
September 9, 2021
4.5 stars
July 28, 2017
This was a pretty good read, but it is my least favourite one in the Heart of Enquiry series. The book was still really well written, as expected from Ms. Callaway.
At first, I had a hard time connecting with Primrose, but I think the author did a fantastic job peeling all the layers. I was stunned to find out that Primrose was actually insecure and vulnerable beneath it all. Andrew was a very well written character too. Ms. Callaway has a way with writing unconventional characters and she always does justice by them and Andrew is no exception. There was so much more to him and we finally got to fill in the holes regarding .
The first half of the book was a little tedious mostly because of Primrose's stubbornness, but I did enjoy the second half of the novel. Andrew and Primrose had great chemistry, but they didn't exactly click for me like the other couples in this series. In fact, all the Sinjin and Polly scenes made me really nostalgic. However, I do think that Andrew is Primrose's perfect mate in that he truly understood her when nobody else did.
One of my other complaints had to do with the animosity between Primrose and Fanny, which I did not really appreciate. I personally thought it was useless and annoying. And to be quite honest, I really shipped Fanny and Grier and I wish we had a few passages with their POV.
In terms of the series overall, I'm still concerned about one loose end: Gabby made a deal with Garrity, but we still don't know anything about that. We don't even know what happened to her after that.
Anyway, I am super excited for Ms. Callaway's upcoming series and I can't wait to read Harry's book. I'm very excited to find out he'll end up with .
At first, I had a hard time connecting with Primrose, but I think the author did a fantastic job peeling all the layers. I was stunned to find out that Primrose was actually insecure and vulnerable beneath it all. Andrew was a very well written character too. Ms. Callaway has a way with writing unconventional characters and she always does justice by them and Andrew is no exception. There was so much more to him and we finally got to fill in the holes regarding .
The first half of the book was a little tedious mostly because of Primrose's stubbornness, but I did enjoy the second half of the novel. Andrew and Primrose had great chemistry, but they didn't exactly click for me like the other couples in this series. In fact, all the Sinjin and Polly scenes made me really nostalgic. However, I do think that Andrew is Primrose's perfect mate in that he truly understood her when nobody else did.
One of my other complaints had to do with the animosity between Primrose and Fanny, which I did not really appreciate. I personally thought it was useless and annoying. And to be quite honest, I really shipped Fanny and Grier and I wish we had a few passages with their POV.
In terms of the series overall, I'm still concerned about one loose end: Gabby made a deal with Garrity, but we still don't know anything about that. We don't even know what happened to her after that.
Anyway, I am super excited for Ms. Callaway's upcoming series and I can't wait to read Harry's book. I'm very excited to find out he'll end up with .
July 4, 2018
Well I finished reading this, but it was a slog to get through it. This is the first book from this author that I didn't like; not the storyline or the H and h. 3☆
April 18, 2022
This was the final book in the Heart of Enquiry series. I adored Andrew but Primrose was my least favorite heroine of the series. Superficial and flighty are the best words to describe her. I understand she longed for acceptance bc of being a bastard, but she was just overkill and ridiculous at some points. It was hard to be in her corner the way she treated Andrew at times. Andrew was an amazing hero. Steadfast, loyal, and solid in his pursuits and exploits. He was a true gentleman, even tho he had been a prostitute and brothel owner. I’m so glad his societal contributions were recognized by the King bc he is a good man.
All in all, their story was enjoyable - Primrose just lacked maturity and confidence and it made her character a bit unlikeable. The Daltry relatives were real pieces of work and deserved everything that happened to them, and in a way, Primrose deserved what they put her through (maybe not being held by gun point, but sticking her superficiality to her). I probably won’t read the book again, but I’m glad I finally finished the series.
All in all, their story was enjoyable - Primrose just lacked maturity and confidence and it made her character a bit unlikeable. The Daltry relatives were real pieces of work and deserved everything that happened to them, and in a way, Primrose deserved what they put her through (maybe not being held by gun point, but sticking her superficiality to her). I probably won’t read the book again, but I’m glad I finally finished the series.
April 13, 2024
I liked this book, one thing I noticed this author doing with this séries was taking topics that people whisper about, but rarely openly discuss and make that the theme. She pulled it off. I can’t explain it I wanted to dislike the h because of here attitude (which this type of attitude in most books would have made me majorly dislike the h, but with this one, I just couldn’t hate her, and I don’t know why ha ha. I loved the H.
Plot 7 (1-10) steaminess 9(1-10)
Plot 7 (1-10) steaminess 9(1-10)
December 20, 2021
I have loved this series by Grace Callaway. Andrew Corbett, the hero, made this book for me.
December 4, 2020
I really enjoy Ms. Calloway’s writing. I’ve read all of her novels and I find them to be very compelling and enjoy the psychological aspect she brings to her stories. I also love that they’re not always a boy meets girl story, but at times can start in the middle of a marriage. She brings an interesting take on your typical HR.
That being said this was my least favorite of her books. I had two big issues with this novel, one of them actually leads into the other.
My biggest problem was the huge age gap between the H & H. I often find in HR books whenever there is a 10+ year age gap, the heroine always, always comes across as immature. (At least 9 times out of 10) Whereas when the H & H are within the same age range I feel like they’re on the same emotional level. I think what made this age gap especially hard to get over was the H & H’s shared past. While the relationship was described in the blurb as a sibling relationship, to me the dynamic felt more like a father/daughter dynamic. He even kept her childhood doll as a reminder of her, which felt like something a parent would do. So when they met again and began a relationship it felt icky to me. I think had they been closer in age, perhaps if he was 9/10 and being groomed to be a sex worker, the relationship would have worked for me more. Ms. Calloway does acknowledge the hero’s discomfort at first with his attraction to Primrose, but for me it was hard to overlook. I did like Andrew and felt he was a well rounded, complex character.
Which brings me to the second problem. Because of the huge age gap, Primrose’s immaturity just becomes glaringly obvious and it is difficult to connect with her and it made me wonder what the H saw in her. Her need for a title/social standing doesn’t feel fully fleshed out and comes across as superficial. I can understand having a need to feel accepted, but since she was doted on and raised in a loving home it didn’t add up for me. Her reasons just weren’t compelling enough for me to want to root for her, and I didn’t see her character growth. I understand what the author was going for from an emotional aspect, but the result just didn’t work. While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as her other novels, I still would recommend Ms. Calloway’s novels. She’s a talented writer and brings a fresh perspective to the genre.
That being said this was my least favorite of her books. I had two big issues with this novel, one of them actually leads into the other.
My biggest problem was the huge age gap between the H & H. I often find in HR books whenever there is a 10+ year age gap, the heroine always, always comes across as immature. (At least 9 times out of 10) Whereas when the H & H are within the same age range I feel like they’re on the same emotional level. I think what made this age gap especially hard to get over was the H & H’s shared past. While the relationship was described in the blurb as a sibling relationship, to me the dynamic felt more like a father/daughter dynamic. He even kept her childhood doll as a reminder of her, which felt like something a parent would do. So when they met again and began a relationship it felt icky to me. I think had they been closer in age, perhaps if he was 9/10 and being groomed to be a sex worker, the relationship would have worked for me more. Ms. Calloway does acknowledge the hero’s discomfort at first with his attraction to Primrose, but for me it was hard to overlook. I did like Andrew and felt he was a well rounded, complex character.
Which brings me to the second problem. Because of the huge age gap, Primrose’s immaturity just becomes glaringly obvious and it is difficult to connect with her and it made me wonder what the H saw in her. Her need for a title/social standing doesn’t feel fully fleshed out and comes across as superficial. I can understand having a need to feel accepted, but since she was doted on and raised in a loving home it didn’t add up for me. Her reasons just weren’t compelling enough for me to want to root for her, and I didn’t see her character growth. I understand what the author was going for from an emotional aspect, but the result just didn’t work. While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as her other novels, I still would recommend Ms. Calloway’s novels. She’s a talented writer and brings a fresh perspective to the genre.
January 10, 2025
Primrose is a beautiful dolt and Andrew used to sell his body to keep a roof over their heads... because for a very brief few years when they were children he was shacked up with her guardian and considered her his sister. Fortunately we get past that fairly quickly and on to the matters at hand, mainly who is going about murdering people this time? And why is Primrose so horny for Andrew all the time?! This is peak Romance Reasons but just feed it to me with a spoon!
Series review: A highly entertaining, spicy, series with old school vibes of the good kind. How many times can one family get kidnapped and/or almost murdered?! Disability & Mental Health Rep. Sex Worker Positivity. Regency set. Connected to the previous & next series. Read in order recommended. Audio and eBook currently available on KoboPlus!
Series review: A highly entertaining, spicy, series with old school vibes of the good kind. How many times can one family get kidnapped and/or almost murdered?! Disability & Mental Health Rep. Sex Worker Positivity. Regency set. Connected to the previous & next series. Read in order recommended. Audio and eBook currently available on KoboPlus!
April 13, 2018
I have loved this series since the Duke who Knew Too Much. It is hard to say goodbye to this cast of characters, but Grace Callaway did a tremendous job of wrapping up this series.
Primrose Kent has always been a bit high strung. To be honest, I had difficulty liking her based on what she did in the previous book. However, Callaway redeemed her. Yes, Rose acted in a headstrong fashion, but as a reader I finally understood why she acted the way that she did. As a bastard, she would always be an outsider. Rose was determined to be accepted, and the only way to do that was to marry a titled aristocrat.
Andrew Corbett has a history with Rose when she was a child. He has watched over her from afar, and now that her actions to gain a titled husband have become desperate, he is forced to step in. Their reconnection sets of a fire of passion in him and in her. Andrew knows that because of his life he is no good for Rose, but he can't stay away from her. I love his passionate tender care for Rose.
All of the characters from the rest of the series step in to help Rose and Andrew to their happily ever after (it was so good to see old friends!) and solve the mysterious attacks that had come against Rose.
This wonderful book can be read as a standalone, but I do hope that the readers then choose to go back to the beginning and read the rest of this delightful series.
Primrose Kent has always been a bit high strung. To be honest, I had difficulty liking her based on what she did in the previous book. However, Callaway redeemed her. Yes, Rose acted in a headstrong fashion, but as a reader I finally understood why she acted the way that she did. As a bastard, she would always be an outsider. Rose was determined to be accepted, and the only way to do that was to marry a titled aristocrat.
Andrew Corbett has a history with Rose when she was a child. He has watched over her from afar, and now that her actions to gain a titled husband have become desperate, he is forced to step in. Their reconnection sets of a fire of passion in him and in her. Andrew knows that because of his life he is no good for Rose, but he can't stay away from her. I love his passionate tender care for Rose.
All of the characters from the rest of the series step in to help Rose and Andrew to their happily ever after (it was so good to see old friends!) and solve the mysterious attacks that had come against Rose.
This wonderful book can be read as a standalone, but I do hope that the readers then choose to go back to the beginning and read the rest of this delightful series.
February 14, 2018
Enjoyed
I loved reading this series and this was my favorite sisters story. It is a standalone but you will appreciate and understand it more if you read the other books in the series.
The hero Andrew was a male prostitute who is now the successful owner of brothels. His Mother was a prostitute who basically sold him into prostitution but he is honorable and kind. You learn the intertwining history between the hero and heroine and you root for them to be together.
The Mother of Primrose our heroine is a high born lady who was pregnant when she married. ( baby's father died in an accident before they could marry) The evil husband gives the baby away and her Mother searches for her after the evil husband dies. We later learn what life has been like growing up illegitimate and not being truly accepted by the ton.
Their is a lot of baggage both hero and heroine must work out themselves before they can reach a happy ending.
This is a hot historical with some explicit sex scenes. All in all I like this Author and can't wait to read her next series about Primrose's brother Harry.
I loved reading this series and this was my favorite sisters story. It is a standalone but you will appreciate and understand it more if you read the other books in the series.
The hero Andrew was a male prostitute who is now the successful owner of brothels. His Mother was a prostitute who basically sold him into prostitution but he is honorable and kind. You learn the intertwining history between the hero and heroine and you root for them to be together.
The Mother of Primrose our heroine is a high born lady who was pregnant when she married. ( baby's father died in an accident before they could marry) The evil husband gives the baby away and her Mother searches for her after the evil husband dies. We later learn what life has been like growing up illegitimate and not being truly accepted by the ton.
Their is a lot of baggage both hero and heroine must work out themselves before they can reach a happy ending.
This is a hot historical with some explicit sex scenes. All in all I like this Author and can't wait to read her next series about Primrose's brother Harry.
February 25, 2020
I really loved how emotionally mature and kind and generous Andrew is, even though he went through a lot in life. It didn't make him jaded and he never felt like he was a victim and the world had been bad to him. That's a wonderful quality to have. I did not understand his reason to fall in love with Rose however.
Rose went through a lot of things in her childhood , but most of it she did not remember. So I didn't completely understand her resentment towards the world and her self-pitying, especially when she had such a loving and supportive family. I would have understood an arc where one went from being selfish and daft and overly dramatic to finding confidence and maturity, but her moods and actions kept going back and forth , giving me a mental whiplash. I just felt like she remained insecure and immature until the very end and she did not repay Andrew's devotion and patience with her own evolution. Loved all the characters except her.
Rose went through a lot of things in her childhood , but most of it she did not remember. So I didn't completely understand her resentment towards the world and her self-pitying, especially when she had such a loving and supportive family. I would have understood an arc where one went from being selfish and daft and overly dramatic to finding confidence and maturity, but her moods and actions kept going back and forth , giving me a mental whiplash. I just felt like she remained insecure and immature until the very end and she did not repay Andrew's devotion and patience with her own evolution. Loved all the characters except her.
October 26, 2019
Not for me
I am a big fan of Grace Callaway, but this book was the worst in the series. I could not connect to Rosie at all. She was selfish and spoiled. Andrew was wonderful. He is the reason I gave two stars. I was very dissappointed for the first time with a book in the series and the series before this one. I will continue to purchase and read Ms. Callaway's books because most of them are enjoyable and light. This one was just dark and troubling.
I am a big fan of Grace Callaway, but this book was the worst in the series. I could not connect to Rosie at all. She was selfish and spoiled. Andrew was wonderful. He is the reason I gave two stars. I was very dissappointed for the first time with a book in the series and the series before this one. I will continue to purchase and read Ms. Callaway's books because most of them are enjoyable and light. This one was just dark and troubling.
July 8, 2022
I wish I had stopped reading this series after the 4th book. When a book uses sex as a vehicle to describe a relationship or explain a significant event in the main characters development, I appreciate it. This last book seemed to be an orgy of a vehicle and I am done with references to “meat poles” and “dewey pearls.” The storyline was barely visible between sexual events…. I did enjoy the first books in this series. Not this one.
June 30, 2020
Not the best, not the worst in this series.
I'm giving this final book a 3 star because the writing is good and the plot idea was good, though it didn't quite work for me. I wish, though, the author stopped using the 'oh my' that is reminiscent of E.L. James' 50 Shades series (unless, of course, Callaway is a pseudonym and you are really James in disguise since so little is written about you). Anyway, that's an aside. What bothers me about this particular book is the fact that these 2 people are both incredibly damaged and despite the era which had no psychoanalysis—and yet the author is described as a psychologist—to me, the psychology presented is false. Rosie is absolutely unpleasant and hard to get behind. Her background, yes, is the reason. But her turnaround and sudden consciousness and awareness doesn't work. This needed longer and further development and I'm not buying the wondrous change in her. Andrew is more believable in that his background is also horrible but he's older, pulled himself up and created a life. Despite deep-seated problems that will seriously infect this relationship in the future, these 2 go off into the sunset together as do all the couples in this series. This, I suppose, is how it goes with romance/mystery novels. I'm new to this genre. I've read a few other authors. And I've read this entire series now and I probably won't read anymore. The goal seems to be to marry and have children, so the romance part (with a multitude of sexual scenes that over the series are so repetitious it's silly) is difficult to accept: EVERY female in this family and at least one of the 2 males in the Kent world has a wondrous, happy and sensual relationship, oodles of money and a title, said relationship still full of eroticism and attentive males after many children and decades of marriage. Again, I suppose this is what readers want, something apart from either their own relationship or an image of an idealized relationship they hope to have. Kudos to the author as a wordsmith. Good plots that might have worked—some did, some didn't. And bringing in all the characters in the building series. But for the rest, feh. At least I've explored this genre and know it's not for me.
I'm giving this final book a 3 star because the writing is good and the plot idea was good, though it didn't quite work for me. I wish, though, the author stopped using the 'oh my' that is reminiscent of E.L. James' 50 Shades series (unless, of course, Callaway is a pseudonym and you are really James in disguise since so little is written about you). Anyway, that's an aside. What bothers me about this particular book is the fact that these 2 people are both incredibly damaged and despite the era which had no psychoanalysis—and yet the author is described as a psychologist—to me, the psychology presented is false. Rosie is absolutely unpleasant and hard to get behind. Her background, yes, is the reason. But her turnaround and sudden consciousness and awareness doesn't work. This needed longer and further development and I'm not buying the wondrous change in her. Andrew is more believable in that his background is also horrible but he's older, pulled himself up and created a life. Despite deep-seated problems that will seriously infect this relationship in the future, these 2 go off into the sunset together as do all the couples in this series. This, I suppose, is how it goes with romance/mystery novels. I'm new to this genre. I've read a few other authors. And I've read this entire series now and I probably won't read anymore. The goal seems to be to marry and have children, so the romance part (with a multitude of sexual scenes that over the series are so repetitious it's silly) is difficult to accept: EVERY female in this family and at least one of the 2 males in the Kent world has a wondrous, happy and sensual relationship, oodles of money and a title, said relationship still full of eroticism and attentive males after many children and decades of marriage. Again, I suppose this is what readers want, something apart from either their own relationship or an image of an idealized relationship they hope to have. Kudos to the author as a wordsmith. Good plots that might have worked—some did, some didn't. And bringing in all the characters in the building series. But for the rest, feh. At least I've explored this genre and know it's not for me.
March 7, 2022
Andrew Makes This Worth It
I have to be honest about my mixed feelings about this one.
Grace Callaway explores what truly makes a man a gentleman in The Gentleman Who Loved Me, an age gap romance between a prostitute turned pimp and the young woman he'd never forgotten. Watching the adorable hero, Andrew Corbett, realize his own self worth makes this a fine read despite the shallow and spoiled heroine.
Not that I entirely blame her. The illegitimate product of her mother's youthful indiscretion, Primrose Kent reunited with her mother and now adopted father at 8 yrs of age. They're pretty much spoiled her to make up for her early years in the hands of first a brothel owner then a lecher. Furthermore, her mother kept the truth of those early 8 years from Primrose, who forgot her past as she matured.
.
The heroine does go on a painful journey into her dark beginnings, when she'd been just a toddler & Andrew a young teen prostitute trying to keep her safe. But you have to read quite deeply into the story for her to realize that her hell-bent pursuit of respectability is not going to get her true happiness. The average reader might not stick with this that long -- especially when she elopes early on with a gross middle aged peer who dies on their wedding night and it's not altogether clear if he'd "done the deed" or not. Abandon the story and miss out on a great happily ever after ending.
Grace Callaway delivers this dark, spicy story with skill. Cameos from previous pairs make this also enjoyable for fans. There's plenty of Ambrose & Marianne Kent from Her Protectors Pleasure to satisfy.
So the 36 yr old former prostitute hero with the heart of gold who will do anything to protect the woman he loves gets 5 stars.
The 22 yr old spoiled, petulant heroine who is self conscious about her own legitimate origins but who might mature by the story's conclusion 4 stars.
The yuck elope with a man not the hero & the slight ick factor that the hero knew the heroine as a toddler, & I didn't see much lovable about the heroine 3 stars.
Like I said, mixed emotions.
4 stars overall.
I have to be honest about my mixed feelings about this one.
Grace Callaway explores what truly makes a man a gentleman in The Gentleman Who Loved Me, an age gap romance between a prostitute turned pimp and the young woman he'd never forgotten. Watching the adorable hero, Andrew Corbett, realize his own self worth makes this a fine read despite the shallow and spoiled heroine.
Not that I entirely blame her. The illegitimate product of her mother's youthful indiscretion, Primrose Kent reunited with her mother and now adopted father at 8 yrs of age. They're pretty much spoiled her to make up for her early years in the hands of first a brothel owner then a lecher. Furthermore, her mother kept the truth of those early 8 years from Primrose, who forgot her past as she matured.
.
The heroine does go on a painful journey into her dark beginnings, when she'd been just a toddler & Andrew a young teen prostitute trying to keep her safe. But you have to read quite deeply into the story for her to realize that her hell-bent pursuit of respectability is not going to get her true happiness. The average reader might not stick with this that long -- especially when she elopes early on with a gross middle aged peer who dies on their wedding night and it's not altogether clear if he'd "done the deed" or not. Abandon the story and miss out on a great happily ever after ending.
Grace Callaway delivers this dark, spicy story with skill. Cameos from previous pairs make this also enjoyable for fans. There's plenty of Ambrose & Marianne Kent from Her Protectors Pleasure to satisfy.
So the 36 yr old former prostitute hero with the heart of gold who will do anything to protect the woman he loves gets 5 stars.
The 22 yr old spoiled, petulant heroine who is self conscious about her own legitimate origins but who might mature by the story's conclusion 4 stars.
The yuck elope with a man not the hero & the slight ick factor that the hero knew the heroine as a toddler, & I didn't see much lovable about the heroine 3 stars.
Like I said, mixed emotions.
4 stars overall.
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