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The Four Hundred #2
A Scandalous Deal
Joanna Shupe returns with another unforgettable novel set in the glittering world of New York City’s Gilded Age…
They call her Lady Unlucky…
With three dead fiancés, Lady Eva Hyde has positively no luck when it comes to love. She sets sail for New York City, determined that nothing will deter her dream of becoming an architect, certainly not an unexpected passionate shipboard encounter with a mysterious stranger. But Eva’s misfortune strikes once more when she discovers the stranger who swept her off her feet is none other than her new employer.
Or is it Lady Irresistible?
Phillip Mansfield reluctantly agrees to let the fiery Lady Eva oversee his luxury hotel project while vowing to keep their relationship strictly professional. Yet Eva is more capable—and more alluring—than Phillip first thought, and he cannot keep from drawing up a plan of his own to seduce her.
When a series of onsite “accidents” makes it clear someone wants Lady Unlucky to earn her nickname, Phillip discovers he’s willing to do anything to protect her—even if it requires A SCANDALOUS DEAL.
They call her Lady Unlucky…
With three dead fiancés, Lady Eva Hyde has positively no luck when it comes to love. She sets sail for New York City, determined that nothing will deter her dream of becoming an architect, certainly not an unexpected passionate shipboard encounter with a mysterious stranger. But Eva’s misfortune strikes once more when she discovers the stranger who swept her off her feet is none other than her new employer.
Or is it Lady Irresistible?
Phillip Mansfield reluctantly agrees to let the fiery Lady Eva oversee his luxury hotel project while vowing to keep their relationship strictly professional. Yet Eva is more capable—and more alluring—than Phillip first thought, and he cannot keep from drawing up a plan of his own to seduce her.
When a series of onsite “accidents” makes it clear someone wants Lady Unlucky to earn her nickname, Phillip discovers he’s willing to do anything to protect her—even if it requires A SCANDALOUS DEAL.
377 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 24, 2018
167 people are currently reading
1755 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Shupe
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http://www.joannashupe.com/newsletter/
USA Today bestselling author JOANNA SHUPE has always loved history, ever since she saw her first Schoolhouse Rock cartoon. Since 2015, her books have appeared on numerous yearly “best of” lists, including Publishers Weekly, The Washington Post, Kirkus Reviews, Kobo, and BookPage.
She currently lives in New Jersey with her two spirited daughters and a dashing husband.
http://www.joannashupe.com/newsletter/
USA Today bestselling author JOANNA SHUPE has always loved history, ever since she saw her first Schoolhouse Rock cartoon. Since 2015, her books have appeared on numerous yearly “best of” lists, including Publishers Weekly, The Washington Post, Kirkus Reviews, Kobo, and BookPage.
She currently lives in New Jersey with her two spirited daughters and a dashing husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 350 reviews
May 6, 2020
Translation widget on the blog!!!
O înțelegere scandaloasă este povestea dintre o lady britanică destul de faimoasă— Lady Eva Hyde, fiica unui celebru arhitect, care a fost poreclită de înalta societate Lady Ghinionista. Asta după fiecare dintre cei trei logodnici a decedat...
O tânără foarte sigură pe ea și care luptă din toate puterile pentru a-și atinge scopurile: vrea să fie revunoscută drept prima femeie arhitect. Tânăra are suficient curaj cât să încerce să pătrundă într-o lume dominată de bărbați care au o concepție aparte fată de atribuțiile femeilor.
Pentru a proiecta un hotel la New York este nevoită să facă uz de renumele tatălui său. Și nu doar atât... se vede nevoită să ascundă boala avansată a tatălui, din simplu motiv că tratamentul costă o mulțime de bani pe care fata nu îi are.
Îl cunoaștem pe Phillip Mansfield, un personaj aparte. Sigur pe el, puternic și dur, care luptă pentru ceea ce își dorește. Acesta este cel care construiește hotelul, un om intransigent, ale cărui opinii sunt de obicei ascultate fără comentarii.
Cei doi au parte de o întâlnire fierbinte pe vasul care revine pe continentul american. Iar Eva este șocată să descopere că aventura ei cu un străin a ajuns să se interpună și în viața ei de zi cu zi.
Astfel, avem parte de o poveste de dragoste cu multă pasiune și emoții care reușesc să prindă în mreje cititorul.
Recenzia mea completă o găsiți aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
O înțelegere scandaloasă este povestea dintre o lady britanică destul de faimoasă— Lady Eva Hyde, fiica unui celebru arhitect, care a fost poreclită de înalta societate Lady Ghinionista. Asta după fiecare dintre cei trei logodnici a decedat...
O tânără foarte sigură pe ea și care luptă din toate puterile pentru a-și atinge scopurile: vrea să fie revunoscută drept prima femeie arhitect. Tânăra are suficient curaj cât să încerce să pătrundă într-o lume dominată de bărbați care au o concepție aparte fată de atribuțiile femeilor.
Pentru a proiecta un hotel la New York este nevoită să facă uz de renumele tatălui său. Și nu doar atât... se vede nevoită să ascundă boala avansată a tatălui, din simplu motiv că tratamentul costă o mulțime de bani pe care fata nu îi are.
Îl cunoaștem pe Phillip Mansfield, un personaj aparte. Sigur pe el, puternic și dur, care luptă pentru ceea ce își dorește. Acesta este cel care construiește hotelul, un om intransigent, ale cărui opinii sunt de obicei ascultate fără comentarii.
Cei doi au parte de o întâlnire fierbinte pe vasul care revine pe continentul american. Iar Eva este șocată să descopere că aventura ei cu un străin a ajuns să se interpună și în viața ei de zi cu zi.
Astfel, avem parte de o poveste de dragoste cu multă pasiune și emoții care reușesc să prindă în mreje cititorul.
Recenzia mea completă o găsiți aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
February 5, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I am usually not a fan of historical romances set in New York City. But this one was just right!
I loved the flawed hero. He was a handsome business man with a brutish side. The savvy heroine was a survivor and a total badass.
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I am usually not a fan of historical romances set in New York City. But this one was just right!
I loved the flawed hero. He was a handsome business man with a brutish side. The savvy heroine was a survivor and a total badass.
May 1, 2018
In my goal to avoid reading the book that I actually want to read (a bit of a contradiction, I know), I thought I would read Joanna Shupe's newest addition to her The Four Hundred series last night.
After about 20-25% I started skim-reading. This is it. This is my last book by this author.
Yes, she is good at bringing the Gilded Age to life. She's good at showing how difficult it was for a woman to advance into male domains. She is good at presenting female friendships. But she seems to forget that she's writing a HR, and there's something that's chafing hard, the more I read these HR's. Apart from the romance lacking big time here to the point where it felt clinical, it sounds so very, very modern. Point in case:
I've tried this author again and again. At least four or five times. Enough now. Unless she publishes a book that gets high praises across the board.
After about 20-25% I started skim-reading. This is it. This is my last book by this author.
Yes, she is good at bringing the Gilded Age to life. She's good at showing how difficult it was for a woman to advance into male domains. She is good at presenting female friendships. But she seems to forget that she's writing a HR, and there's something that's chafing hard, the more I read these HR's. Apart from the romance lacking big time here to the point where it felt clinical, it sounds so very, very modern. Point in case:
Still, she didn’t presume to think she was the only woman currently in his orbit. The idea of him with another twisted her stomach, but she had to ask. “Are there not . . . others?”I think I'm becoming more and more irritable lately. I'm not even saying that 'exclusivity' was never discussed in those times. But it doesn't stop from sounding extremely modern to me. Besides, the whole dialogue sounded horribly impersonal, too.
His mouth opened, then closed. Reopened to ask, “Do you want there to be? I had assumed we would be exclusive.”
Exclusive was good. Exclusive worked for her. She shook her head. “No, I don’t. Nevertheless, I believe twice is sufficient for now.”
“Twice? Come now. I know you enjoyed yourself with me. Think of how much better it will become once we sort our likes and dislikes.”
Goodness, if this got any better it may very well kill her. “Twice, Phillip. I am quite busy these days, but we may revisit the schedule if we both feel it’s insufficient.”
I've tried this author again and again. At least four or five times. Enough now. Unless she publishes a book that gets high praises across the board.
April 26, 2018
3.5 stars.
I like it, but the characters and the dialogues feels too current!
Love the idea a female architect, but correct me if I’m wrong, how old the heroine is? Is she 22?
She started seriously learning at 14 for 8 years. And now she is in charge for a high rise luxurious hotel in 19th century? Er...seriously? 🙄🤨
Even in 21st century, when women can have any career they want that things won’t happened!
Oh well, but it was a fun story and who care with the fact right? Right?
I like it, but the characters and the dialogues feels too current!
Love the idea a female architect, but correct me if I’m wrong, how old the heroine is? Is she 22?
She started seriously learning at 14 for 8 years. And now she is in charge for a high rise luxurious hotel in 19th century? Er...seriously? 🙄🤨
Even in 21st century, when women can have any career they want that things won’t happened!
Oh well, but it was a fun story and who care with the fact right? Right?
May 31, 2018
I've given this a B at AAR.
This second book in Joanna Shupe’s The Four Hundred series introduces readers to Lady Eva Hyde, an intelligent and ambitious young woman who longs to make a career designing buildings. Her father, the world’s most famous architect, Lord Cassell (otherwise known as E.M. Hyde) has tutored her since she was a teenager, and she has studied and worked hard to hone her craft, but this is 1890, and she is barred from properly entering the profession because she is female. E.M. Hyde has recently been commissioned to design what is going to be America’s biggest, most modern and most luxurious hotel, the Mansfield, to be named after its owner, hotelier and millionaire, Philip Mansfield – but what the world at large does not know is that for the past two years, Eva’s father has been seriously ill, and in order to preserve his legacy and keep them afloat financially, his most recent designs – including those of the Mansfield Hotel – have been Eva’s work.
A Scandalous Deal opens as Eva is travelling to New York to meet with Mr. Mansfield and to oversee the project’s initial stages. Her plan is to explain that her father has been taken ill and is unable to make the trip to America and that she is fully versed on her his work and will act in his stead. The ship is not far from land when a bad storm blows up, leaving Eva and only one other passenger – a gentleman she’d met briefly a day or so earlier – prepared to brave the conditions and find themselves something to eat and drink for dinner. By the end of the evening, Eva is a little tipsy, but is still well able to appreciate the man’s handsome face and impressive physique – plus, the way he speaks to her, like an actual, intelligent person rather than as a delicate flower with nothing between the ears, makes her feel valued in a way no other man ever has. Deciding to throw caution to the wind – her marriage prospects in England are zero anyway, given she’s been nicknamed ‘Lady Unlucky’ due to the fact that she has been engaged three times and all her fiancés died – Eva has her first taste of real passion that night, although in the cold light of morning she realises she has perhaps been rather incautious.
It’s not going to come as a surprise (especially if you’ve read the book synopsis!) that the handsome stranger Eva met on the voyage turns out to be none other than Philip Mansfield himself. The mutual attraction that flared between them on the ship has not gone away, but given the circumstances – Eva is Philip’s employee and he’s not happy about the fact that she’s there and her father isn’t – both of them agree to put it behind them and to maintain a professional distance. Even so, Eva is somewhat dismayed when she learns that Philip is a very ‘hands on’ owner and manager, who spends most of his time at his sites; in her previous experiences, she, as her father’s representative, has been more or less left to oversee the work being undertaken, and she is unnerved at the prospect of having to maintain her deception on a day to day basis… as well as of seeing Philip every day and having to ignore the way he makes her feel. And Philip looks forward to the day that E.M Hyde is well enough to travel so that he will no longer need to see the infuriatingly desirable Eva every day.
But not seeing Eva and not thinking about her very soon becomes impossible and Philip finds it difficult to concentrate on anything else. It’s clear to him from her reactions that the desire he feels for Eva is reciprocated, so from then on there is only one solution. His proposal that they become the sort of friends who “on occasion, might not go home separately” is both scandalous and tantalising to Eva, who longs to experience again the passion she’d felt in Philip’s arms, but is also aware that she has a lot to lose should anyone find out.
There’s a lot to like about A Scandalous Deal. Eva and Philip are strongly drawn, attractive characters, the setting and the architectural details are lovingly described and have clearly been well researched and I really enjoyed the subplots concerning the corruption rife in the city at the time, the difficulties with the unions and Eva’s wonderfully inventive solution to the problems that arise as a result. The problem, though, is that there are too many subplots in the story – there’s one concerning the young woman Philip’s parents want him to marry and her father’s revenge when Philip makes it clear it’s not going to happen; another concerning a number of ‘accidents’ at the hotel site which threaten Eva’s safety and another about a commission from Philip’s formidable mother – that there’s not all that much room left over for the development of the central romance or for the principals to interact outside of the bedroom. The author establishes the attraction between Eva and Philip very well and there’s no question they have great chemistry; the love scenes are sensual and well-done, and I liked the way Eva wasn’t prepared to settle for anything less than a man who loved her for what she was and who would support her ambitions. I did, however, get annoyed with her when she jumped to conclusions about what Philip must be thinking simply because he looked or sighed the wrong way after they’d been intimate. It’s so transparently a plot device in a book that doesn’t need any more plot and makes Eva seem judgmental and unreasonable.
I did like the way that Philip is suddenly brought to realise that he had been applying one set of standards to one of his female friends and another to Eva, that he had ignored the importance she placed on retaining her independence and individuality. When he finally realises that he’s gone about things the wrong way, he’s big enough to admit his mistake and go all out – in a rather unusual but contextually appropriate Grand Gesture – to correct it and prove to Eva that he wants to support her in whatever she chooses to do.
A Scandalous Deal is an engaging and entertaining read, and Joanna Shupe continues to be one of the strongest writers of historical romance around. While there’s a lot of plot in the book, it’s all handled very well and there are no loose ends, but I can’t deny that I’d have liked the romance to have been more strongly developed in a more organic way. Nonetheless, it’s a solid addition to her current series, and I’ll definitely be looking out for book three later this year.
This second book in Joanna Shupe’s The Four Hundred series introduces readers to Lady Eva Hyde, an intelligent and ambitious young woman who longs to make a career designing buildings. Her father, the world’s most famous architect, Lord Cassell (otherwise known as E.M. Hyde) has tutored her since she was a teenager, and she has studied and worked hard to hone her craft, but this is 1890, and she is barred from properly entering the profession because she is female. E.M. Hyde has recently been commissioned to design what is going to be America’s biggest, most modern and most luxurious hotel, the Mansfield, to be named after its owner, hotelier and millionaire, Philip Mansfield – but what the world at large does not know is that for the past two years, Eva’s father has been seriously ill, and in order to preserve his legacy and keep them afloat financially, his most recent designs – including those of the Mansfield Hotel – have been Eva’s work.
A Scandalous Deal opens as Eva is travelling to New York to meet with Mr. Mansfield and to oversee the project’s initial stages. Her plan is to explain that her father has been taken ill and is unable to make the trip to America and that she is fully versed on her his work and will act in his stead. The ship is not far from land when a bad storm blows up, leaving Eva and only one other passenger – a gentleman she’d met briefly a day or so earlier – prepared to brave the conditions and find themselves something to eat and drink for dinner. By the end of the evening, Eva is a little tipsy, but is still well able to appreciate the man’s handsome face and impressive physique – plus, the way he speaks to her, like an actual, intelligent person rather than as a delicate flower with nothing between the ears, makes her feel valued in a way no other man ever has. Deciding to throw caution to the wind – her marriage prospects in England are zero anyway, given she’s been nicknamed ‘Lady Unlucky’ due to the fact that she has been engaged three times and all her fiancés died – Eva has her first taste of real passion that night, although in the cold light of morning she realises she has perhaps been rather incautious.
It’s not going to come as a surprise (especially if you’ve read the book synopsis!) that the handsome stranger Eva met on the voyage turns out to be none other than Philip Mansfield himself. The mutual attraction that flared between them on the ship has not gone away, but given the circumstances – Eva is Philip’s employee and he’s not happy about the fact that she’s there and her father isn’t – both of them agree to put it behind them and to maintain a professional distance. Even so, Eva is somewhat dismayed when she learns that Philip is a very ‘hands on’ owner and manager, who spends most of his time at his sites; in her previous experiences, she, as her father’s representative, has been more or less left to oversee the work being undertaken, and she is unnerved at the prospect of having to maintain her deception on a day to day basis… as well as of seeing Philip every day and having to ignore the way he makes her feel. And Philip looks forward to the day that E.M Hyde is well enough to travel so that he will no longer need to see the infuriatingly desirable Eva every day.
But not seeing Eva and not thinking about her very soon becomes impossible and Philip finds it difficult to concentrate on anything else. It’s clear to him from her reactions that the desire he feels for Eva is reciprocated, so from then on there is only one solution. His proposal that they become the sort of friends who “on occasion, might not go home separately” is both scandalous and tantalising to Eva, who longs to experience again the passion she’d felt in Philip’s arms, but is also aware that she has a lot to lose should anyone find out.
There’s a lot to like about A Scandalous Deal. Eva and Philip are strongly drawn, attractive characters, the setting and the architectural details are lovingly described and have clearly been well researched and I really enjoyed the subplots concerning the corruption rife in the city at the time, the difficulties with the unions and Eva’s wonderfully inventive solution to the problems that arise as a result. The problem, though, is that there are too many subplots in the story – there’s one concerning the young woman Philip’s parents want him to marry and her father’s revenge when Philip makes it clear it’s not going to happen; another concerning a number of ‘accidents’ at the hotel site which threaten Eva’s safety and another about a commission from Philip’s formidable mother – that there’s not all that much room left over for the development of the central romance or for the principals to interact outside of the bedroom. The author establishes the attraction between Eva and Philip very well and there’s no question they have great chemistry; the love scenes are sensual and well-done, and I liked the way Eva wasn’t prepared to settle for anything less than a man who loved her for what she was and who would support her ambitions. I did, however, get annoyed with her when she jumped to conclusions about what Philip must be thinking simply because he looked or sighed the wrong way after they’d been intimate. It’s so transparently a plot device in a book that doesn’t need any more plot and makes Eva seem judgmental and unreasonable.
I did like the way that Philip is suddenly brought to realise that he had been applying one set of standards to one of his female friends and another to Eva, that he had ignored the importance she placed on retaining her independence and individuality. When he finally realises that he’s gone about things the wrong way, he’s big enough to admit his mistake and go all out – in a rather unusual but contextually appropriate Grand Gesture – to correct it and prove to Eva that he wants to support her in whatever she chooses to do.
A Scandalous Deal is an engaging and entertaining read, and Joanna Shupe continues to be one of the strongest writers of historical romance around. While there’s a lot of plot in the book, it’s all handled very well and there are no loose ends, but I can’t deny that I’d have liked the romance to have been more strongly developed in a more organic way. Nonetheless, it’s a solid addition to her current series, and I’ll definitely be looking out for book three later this year.
February 12, 2021
Reseña completa: https://masromance.blogspot.com/2021/...
Una lectura muy entretenida que me ha gustado mucho. Aun así, hay conversaciones entre ambos que me han parecido demasiado «modernas» quizás por ello sería más un 3.5 que 4... pero ya sabemos el problema de las medias estrellitas
Ella me ha gustado mucho, un canto total a la defensa de la mujer en una época de cambios.
El tenía más potencial, pero creo que tiene poco protagonismo y, sí, es complicado de explicar pero lo intentaré cuando haga reseña, a ver si puedo
Otro de mis grandes peros es su relación, para mi gusto le ha faltado romance. Es cierto que la autora los describe a ambos como personas prácticas tanto que llevan su pragmatismo a esos extremos... pero le ha faltado unos cuantos momentos tiernos, creo... para endulzar un poco esa relación que, como dice el título, es totalmente un acuerdo
El entorno me ha gustado mucho, el tema de la construcción, sindicatos, moraleja incluida....
Esta autora me está gustando bastante, aunque sigo pensando que la forma en la que propicia las escenas de sexo siguen siendo algo forzadas.
Una lectura muy entretenida que me ha gustado mucho. Aun así, hay conversaciones entre ambos que me han parecido demasiado «modernas» quizás por ello sería más un 3.5 que 4... pero ya sabemos el problema de las medias estrellitas
Ella me ha gustado mucho, un canto total a la defensa de la mujer en una época de cambios.
El tenía más potencial, pero creo que tiene poco protagonismo y, sí, es complicado de explicar pero lo intentaré cuando haga reseña, a ver si puedo
Otro de mis grandes peros es su relación, para mi gusto le ha faltado romance. Es cierto que la autora los describe a ambos como personas prácticas tanto que llevan su pragmatismo a esos extremos... pero le ha faltado unos cuantos momentos tiernos, creo... para endulzar un poco esa relación que, como dice el título, es totalmente un acuerdo
El entorno me ha gustado mucho, el tema de la construcción, sindicatos, moraleja incluida....
Esta autora me está gustando bastante, aunque sigo pensando que la forma en la que propicia las escenas de sexo siguen siendo algo forzadas.
February 2, 2021
Lady Eva Hyde has a shipboard one-night-stand with Phillip Mansfield. When she realizes that he's her new employer, and also DOWN TO CLOWN, she has to decide what's really important: her dreams of being a kickass architect, or introducing herself to Phillip's boner on the regular.
1. I know; I know: you're thinking, "kris, if you hate the gilded age setting so much, why do you keep reading Shupe's novels?" and I'll tell you: it's like lucky socks. I don't like the way they fit, but I like the results so I'm going to keep wearing them. Except in this case, the socks are reading. I've been lucky to have found something to hold my attention for the space between breaths so I'm going to keep reading these dang gilded age novels until I run out of books or attention (or breaths, I guess).
2. Lady Eva was a pretty cool heroine. I liked her drive and exasperation with dudes and general bluntness.
3. Phillip's a standard too-rich-for-pants hero: he's better when he's naked and even then he's basically boring.
4. This is very much a modern romance dressed up with shirtwaists and olde time nonsense: it's not unenjoyable and it's a take I don't have issue with but these two dunderheads do straight up negotiate having sex on a schedule immediately following the first time they have sex IN MADISON SQUARE GARDEN so really: extend that disbelief right out the window.
5. The fact that Eva confirms the BATHTUB was cleaned but doesn't ask about the bed is just. WHAT WOMAN.
6. I don't think this is quite as strong as some others in Shupe's inventory: it's not terrible, but the writing felt a little less crisp, and the resolution was rushed, and there were just enough unnecessary missteps that I kept going more out of habit then actual enjoyment.
1. I know; I know: you're thinking, "kris, if you hate the gilded age setting so much, why do you keep reading Shupe's novels?" and I'll tell you: it's like lucky socks. I don't like the way they fit, but I like the results so I'm going to keep wearing them. Except in this case, the socks are reading. I've been lucky to have found something to hold my attention for the space between breaths so I'm going to keep reading these dang gilded age novels until I run out of books or attention (or breaths, I guess).
2. Lady Eva was a pretty cool heroine. I liked her drive and exasperation with dudes and general bluntness.
3. Phillip's a standard too-rich-for-pants hero: he's better when he's naked and even then he's basically boring.
4. This is very much a modern romance dressed up with shirtwaists and olde time nonsense: it's not unenjoyable and it's a take I don't have issue with but these two dunderheads do straight up negotiate having sex on a schedule immediately following the first time they have sex IN MADISON SQUARE GARDEN so really: extend that disbelief right out the window.
5. The fact that Eva confirms the BATHTUB was cleaned but doesn't ask about the bed is just. WHAT WOMAN.
6. I don't think this is quite as strong as some others in Shupe's inventory: it's not terrible, but the writing felt a little less crisp, and the resolution was rushed, and there were just enough unnecessary missteps that I kept going more out of habit then actual enjoyment.
April 26, 2021
J'ai lu cette saga dans un ordre totalement incohérent. Mais au final, j'en suis contente parce que si j'avais lu le tome 2 avant le 3, je ne pense pas que j'aurais lu ce dernier tome. Celui-ci est beaucoup beaucoup mieux que le 3 ; c'est torride, drôle et rythmé. Rien avoir avec le dernier tome.
On va aussi aborder la condition de la femme dans le mieux du travail et sa reconnaissance. De plus, les événements ont réellement eu lieu, même si les personnages sont fictifs.
Nos protagonistes dégagent une alchimie folle. J'ai été charmée par toutes les réparties et le dynamisme qui s'en dégage. Que demander de plus ?
Ce roman aura été pour moi un presque coup de cœur. Il se lit très vite et la plume fluide de l'auteure est d'une fluidité incroyable ! Je recommande !
On va aussi aborder la condition de la femme dans le mieux du travail et sa reconnaissance. De plus, les événements ont réellement eu lieu, même si les personnages sont fictifs.
Nos protagonistes dégagent une alchimie folle. J'ai été charmée par toutes les réparties et le dynamisme qui s'en dégage. Que demander de plus ?
Ce roman aura été pour moi un presque coup de cœur. Il se lit très vite et la plume fluide de l'auteure est d'une fluidité incroyable ! Je recommande !
April 4, 2018
I had enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to get this one.
I loved Eva and Phillip. She’s smart and stands up for herself. He’s stubborn and maybe a bit cocky. Together there’s a load of chemistry and button pushing. It was especially delightful to see Nora and Julius from the first book.
Plot wise, it was okay. There’s a lot of push and pull and while these two talked and talked often, it was never about what it needed to be. I loved all of the mentions of working women and the women supporting women. One of the best scenes involved Eva bringing in female family members.
Overall, it had a bit more deceit and miscommunication than I wanted, but I loved these characters. I can’t wait to read the next book.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Eva and Phillip. She’s smart and stands up for herself. He’s stubborn and maybe a bit cocky. Together there’s a load of chemistry and button pushing. It was especially delightful to see Nora and Julius from the first book.
Plot wise, it was okay. There’s a lot of push and pull and while these two talked and talked often, it was never about what it needed to be. I loved all of the mentions of working women and the women supporting women. One of the best scenes involved Eva bringing in female family members.
Overall, it had a bit more deceit and miscommunication than I wanted, but I loved these characters. I can’t wait to read the next book.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
February 21, 2023
This should have been titled Lady Eva Lies Through her Teeth and Overreacts to Everything.
Lady Eva and Phillip met while traveling to New York. They hooked up on the ship and then she disappeared. Once in NYC, Phillip gets back to being a Gilded Age billionaire and building a fancy hotel. The fancy hotel's architect is no other than Lady Eva. She's pretending to be her father's envoy (who is the architect Phillip originally hired) while he recovers from illness. But in truth, she's the one doing the work and her dad is afflicted with what sounds like Alzheimer's. Loads of sexism, and workers who refuse to work for her ensues. Also she starts boinking Phillip on the side while refusing to come clean about her father's condition and the fact that he will never come to New York.
Both MCs were unlikeable. Phillip was kind of a jerk and Eva was annoying. There was very little connection between them other than sexual. The sex scenes were on point tho. But there was zero romantic connection so when the declarations came it was kind of out of left field. Also, Phillip's change of heart and grand gesture at the end was puzzling. What made him change his mind about her abilities? Too sudden and their romance does not have enough development to be believable. Her friend Nora was obnoxious and meddling and I will not read her book. My blood pressure can't take it. The setting Gilded Age NYC gets a full star. Love how it comes alive here. Otherwise, meh.
⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥🔥🔥/5
Lady Eva and Phillip met while traveling to New York. They hooked up on the ship and then she disappeared. Once in NYC, Phillip gets back to being a Gilded Age billionaire and building a fancy hotel. The fancy hotel's architect is no other than Lady Eva. She's pretending to be her father's envoy (who is the architect Phillip originally hired) while he recovers from illness. But in truth, she's the one doing the work and her dad is afflicted with what sounds like Alzheimer's. Loads of sexism, and workers who refuse to work for her ensues. Also she starts boinking Phillip on the side while refusing to come clean about her father's condition and the fact that he will never come to New York.
Both MCs were unlikeable. Phillip was kind of a jerk and Eva was annoying. There was very little connection between them other than sexual. The sex scenes were on point tho. But there was zero romantic connection so when the declarations came it was kind of out of left field. Also, Phillip's change of heart and grand gesture at the end was puzzling. What made him change his mind about her abilities? Too sudden and their romance does not have enough development to be believable. Her friend Nora was obnoxious and meddling and I will not read her book. My blood pressure can't take it. The setting Gilded Age NYC gets a full star. Love how it comes alive here. Otherwise, meh.
⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥🔥🔥/5
July 15, 2023
Another review described this as more like "Gilded Age Women's Fiction" than "Gilded Age Romance," and I totally understand why. Not bad, but not what I expected.
A covert relationship unfolds between Eva, a talented British architect who wants to blaze trails but is relegated to shadows, and Phillip, an American hotelier who is "not like the other Old Money scions." Said relationship - the entire plot, really - is subject to Eva's Very Big Secret.
I usually love books with the Very Big Secret trope, because I love the angst that ensues. But, I didn't love it here 🤷🏻♀️ It was too big, and went on too long. Moreover, the way that their relationship evolved - or didn't evolve - left me cold. Eva keeping the Very Big Secret, even if largely understandable, stunted its growth. Meanwhile, Phillip alternated between open-minded and pigheaded. Sexual attraction was present, yes, but tangible and genuine emotions? Scarce.
The writing was absorbing, though, and the setting was fantastic. Gilded Age New York! A fascinating time in American history, with the rise of progressivism and women's rights, civil rights and workers' rights movements against bigotry and corruption. Those aspects totally worked for me. Alas, the romance fell mostly flat.
A covert relationship unfolds between Eva, a talented British architect who wants to blaze trails but is relegated to shadows, and Phillip, an American hotelier who is "not like the other Old Money scions." Said relationship - the entire plot, really - is subject to Eva's Very Big Secret.
I usually love books with the Very Big Secret trope, because I love the angst that ensues. But, I didn't love it here 🤷🏻♀️ It was too big, and went on too long. Moreover, the way that their relationship evolved - or didn't evolve - left me cold. Eva keeping the Very Big Secret, even if largely understandable, stunted its growth. Meanwhile, Phillip alternated between open-minded and pigheaded. Sexual attraction was present, yes, but tangible and genuine emotions? Scarce.
The writing was absorbing, though, and the setting was fantastic. Gilded Age New York! A fascinating time in American history, with the rise of progressivism and women's rights, civil rights and workers' rights movements against bigotry and corruption. Those aspects totally worked for me. Alas, the romance fell mostly flat.
July 8, 2018
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A Scandalous Deal is the second book in the Four Hundred series. The first book was a delight, but I really think I enjoyed this book even more than book one. *gasp* because I adored A Daring Arrangement . But this book, just held my attention even more. I don't know what it was, but the minute I started reading it, I LITERALLY couldn't put it down which is good that it's my day off or I might have been tempted to call in sick to work...that is how much this book held my attention, and I really didn't want to put it down...so yes it was read in one sitting which doesn't happen too often so its always a fun delight when it happens.
A Scandalous Deal starts off with our main co stars....Eva and Phillip. They are both headed to New York from England on a passenger ship. Eva first meets Phillip on the first day when he is barely holding his stomach together from motion sickness. Later they meet eating snacks and drinking champagne, and realize that they have some powerful chemistry and share some sensual moments in Phillip's cabin. But on the morning of their arrival to New York, Eva disappears despite Phillip's search for her because for the first time since the betrayal years previous, he wants another woman and a woman he doesn't want to let go of.
Eva has come to New York to carry on her father's work. She was taught by her father how to be a true designer and architect. But her father has been sick for almost two years and she has been taking on his work, posing as him. When she has the opportunity to build a prestigious hotel in New York, she knows that she will have to pose as her father to get the job. So she does just that, and her new boss, is known to be brutal and strict about his properties. But when she strides into his office, she never expected her boss to be the mysterious stranger she almost had sex with on her voyage here.
At first Phillip almost refuses to let Eva work for him in her father's stead, because one she is a woman and he knows the waves it would cause with his construction crew. But also because he wants the real architect on the project, not a stand in, but what he doesn't realize is that Eva is the true designer behind the plans for the hotel. Eva needs this job desperately, with the debts her father has owed, she needs the money this venture would bring. She just never thought her mixed feelings for her boss would interfere and now she has a serious dilemma on her hands. When to tell that man she is coming to love the real truth when he has already been betrayed once before?
*sigh*....this story was so delicious in so many ways and I honestly can say it was a blast to read and it was so easy to immerse myself into Phillip and Eva's romance. First off, the chemistry between them is explosive and I adored the way their love scenes were written.
They were written so well, and in such a way that it brings shivers to the reader. It had such a sensual and warm feel to the scene and I am really adoring this author style of writing. Then we have the office forbidden romance, with secrets abound. Now you undersand why Eva is keeping these secrets, but at the same time, you wonder when she will tell Phillip the truth because you just know he is NOT going to take the truth well. And the way it plays out, it really makes you wish the heroine hadn't waited so long because the way it comes out isn't the best way for him to learn the truth.
There are also other conflicts to this story. We have matchmaking mama's that want Phillip and another debutante to get married which Phillip will never do. We see him have a real friendship...a platonic one with another woman who is secretly in love with her maid and if her parents find out she will be institutionalized for it. Then we have the construction crew who are very much against Eva working as the architect because she is a woman. So we see how well Eva can handle herself with these situations. She has spice and sass and handles herself so well. I love how she just knows men and how to make them think her way so flawlessly. She doesn't complain much about working in a man's world, just accepts it as a fact of the world and does what she can to work with men instead of against them and I really enjoyed that about her character.
I really fell in love with just about everything about this book, the only aspect that kept this book from a full on 5 rating was how long the secret was kept from Phillip since secrets kinda drive me crazy. But it was written pretty well so I didn't mind it too much. This was a delightful read that had me flipping those pages as fast as I could get them read and brought another fun story in the Gilded Age era which is rarely written about so I had a fun time with it. I honestly can't recommend this author enough, and encourage any romance lover to grab up this series.
[foogallery id="58366"]
A Scandalous Deal is the second book in the Four Hundred series. The first book was a delight, but I really think I enjoyed this book even more than book one. *gasp* because I adored A Daring Arrangement . But this book, just held my attention even more. I don't know what it was, but the minute I started reading it, I LITERALLY couldn't put it down which is good that it's my day off or I might have been tempted to call in sick to work...that is how much this book held my attention, and I really didn't want to put it down...so yes it was read in one sitting which doesn't happen too often so its always a fun delight when it happens.
A Scandalous Deal starts off with our main co stars....Eva and Phillip. They are both headed to New York from England on a passenger ship. Eva first meets Phillip on the first day when he is barely holding his stomach together from motion sickness. Later they meet eating snacks and drinking champagne, and realize that they have some powerful chemistry and share some sensual moments in Phillip's cabin. But on the morning of their arrival to New York, Eva disappears despite Phillip's search for her because for the first time since the betrayal years previous, he wants another woman and a woman he doesn't want to let go of.
Eva has come to New York to carry on her father's work. She was taught by her father how to be a true designer and architect. But her father has been sick for almost two years and she has been taking on his work, posing as him. When she has the opportunity to build a prestigious hotel in New York, she knows that she will have to pose as her father to get the job. So she does just that, and her new boss, is known to be brutal and strict about his properties. But when she strides into his office, she never expected her boss to be the mysterious stranger she almost had sex with on her voyage here.
At first Phillip almost refuses to let Eva work for him in her father's stead, because one she is a woman and he knows the waves it would cause with his construction crew. But also because he wants the real architect on the project, not a stand in, but what he doesn't realize is that Eva is the true designer behind the plans for the hotel. Eva needs this job desperately, with the debts her father has owed, she needs the money this venture would bring. She just never thought her mixed feelings for her boss would interfere and now she has a serious dilemma on her hands. When to tell that man she is coming to love the real truth when he has already been betrayed once before?
*sigh*....this story was so delicious in so many ways and I honestly can say it was a blast to read and it was so easy to immerse myself into Phillip and Eva's romance. First off, the chemistry between them is explosive and I adored the way their love scenes were written.
There's no room to ravish you properly here. I need to thoroughly consume you, to wreck us both. I want to destroy you for all other men in both England and American. Hell, any country on the planet.
They were written so well, and in such a way that it brings shivers to the reader. It had such a sensual and warm feel to the scene and I am really adoring this author style of writing. Then we have the office forbidden romance, with secrets abound. Now you undersand why Eva is keeping these secrets, but at the same time, you wonder when she will tell Phillip the truth because you just know he is NOT going to take the truth well. And the way it plays out, it really makes you wish the heroine hadn't waited so long because the way it comes out isn't the best way for him to learn the truth.
Let everyone see that you're mine. And before you complain, this also allows everyone to see that I am yours. We're equals in this, Eva.
There are also other conflicts to this story. We have matchmaking mama's that want Phillip and another debutante to get married which Phillip will never do. We see him have a real friendship...a platonic one with another woman who is secretly in love with her maid and if her parents find out she will be institutionalized for it. Then we have the construction crew who are very much against Eva working as the architect because she is a woman. So we see how well Eva can handle herself with these situations. She has spice and sass and handles herself so well. I love how she just knows men and how to make them think her way so flawlessly. She doesn't complain much about working in a man's world, just accepts it as a fact of the world and does what she can to work with men instead of against them and I really enjoyed that about her character.
You captivated me from the moment we met and I don't ever want to be apart, not for one single day. I love you and I need you by my side. That is why I must marry you. I promise I will learn to compromise and never block you from the sun.
I really fell in love with just about everything about this book, the only aspect that kept this book from a full on 5 rating was how long the secret was kept from Phillip since secrets kinda drive me crazy. But it was written pretty well so I didn't mind it too much. This was a delightful read that had me flipping those pages as fast as I could get them read and brought another fun story in the Gilded Age era which is rarely written about so I had a fun time with it. I honestly can't recommend this author enough, and encourage any romance lover to grab up this series.
[foogallery id="58366"]
February 17, 2025
I always love a secret identity, post-hook-up trope and I definitely found the romance steamy, but I was very invested in the B plot about working women in the second half 🩵
Also shout out to the briefly featured sapphic pairing, Joanna please give us a full FF book 🙏
Also shout out to the briefly featured sapphic pairing, Joanna please give us a full FF book 🙏
June 12, 2018
Honestly, Philip should have grovelled more.
Lady Eva was great and I loved that her character refused to back down from her own individual aspirations, pushing for more from her future partner, although I am of the opinion that Philip could of done more than a grand gesture since I'm not completely convinced that he's reversed his thinking on women in the workforce. Sigh.
Lady Eva was great and I loved that her character refused to back down from her own individual aspirations, pushing for more from her future partner, although I am of the opinion that Philip could of done more than a grand gesture since I'm not completely convinced that he's reversed his thinking on women in the workforce. Sigh.
February 19, 2024
she lied for a good reason okay… don’t hate on my girl eva!
January 24, 2023
A Scandalous Deal was a great read about a female architect and her employer. Coming to New York from London, Eva meets Phillip on a boat; however, what she doesn't realize is that Peter is the person she is coming to work for to build a hotel.
I really loved Eva's character. She was a very strong female lead that knew exactly what she wanted and was willing to do what it takes to get it done. I loved that she didn't want anyone to get in her way, even Phillip.
Now Phillip... I have some thought on him. He really made me mad. But then again, he made Eva mad, so I'm pretty sure he was supposed to. This book had a lot to do with women discrimination within the workplace, and I really wanted to make Phillip have some more sense, especially in the beginning.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the third book in this series.
I really loved Eva's character. She was a very strong female lead that knew exactly what she wanted and was willing to do what it takes to get it done. I loved that she didn't want anyone to get in her way, even Phillip.
Now Phillip... I have some thought on him. He really made me mad. But then again, he made Eva mad, so I'm pretty sure he was supposed to. This book had a lot to do with women discrimination within the workplace, and I really wanted to make Phillip have some more sense, especially in the beginning.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the third book in this series.
April 23, 2018
Probably the sexiest book of Joanna Shupe's so far, in my opinion. Chapter 2 is a highlight for me with its combination of humor and high heat.
I like Eva's strength of will and her unwavering self-belief. But for me, Phillip had the most growth arc in this book with his acceptance of the changing roles of women in his world.
As always with Joanna's Gilded age setting, I adore "being there" at the time and place of A Scandalous Deal because she describes them exceptionally well.
I prefer for the deception to have been resolved much earlier, but I also appreciate the grand gestures both characters employed to get back together.
I give kudos to Joanna for being so very inclusive in her books, particularly this one. I also appreciate its feminist bent, although the execution could have been less forceful, especially in the last 20% of the book.
Overall, an enjoyable read. Big thanks to Avon for providing me a copy to review via Edelweiss.
I like Eva's strength of will and her unwavering self-belief. But for me, Phillip had the most growth arc in this book with his acceptance of the changing roles of women in his world.
As always with Joanna's Gilded age setting, I adore "being there" at the time and place of A Scandalous Deal because she describes them exceptionally well.
I prefer for the deception to have been resolved much earlier, but I also appreciate the grand gestures both characters employed to get back together.
I give kudos to Joanna for being so very inclusive in her books, particularly this one. I also appreciate its feminist bent, although the execution could have been less forceful, especially in the last 20% of the book.
Overall, an enjoyable read. Big thanks to Avon for providing me a copy to review via Edelweiss.
May 30, 2018
As much as I love the Regency romances that are the mainstay of my historicals, I am really enjoying the foray into New York’s Gilded Age I’m getting with this series. This is the second installment in Joanna Shupe’s The Four Hundred and–though I enjoyed the first one–if you want to jump in here, this holds up just fine as a standalone.
Lady Eva is a talented architect who learned her craft at the feet of her renowned father. Unfortunately, her dad has developed dementia and can no longer work. To make matters worse, he mismanaged their money and despite his success, she can’t pay the bills. So she decides to use her own skill to fix the situation. Of course, no one will hire a woman as an architect, so she takes a lucrative job in New York, pretending to serve in her father’s stead. After all, she’s been designing in his name for years. What could possibly go wrong?
On her voyage to America, Eva meets a gorgeous and captivating man who she allows herself to indulge in a few indiscretions with. She has no idea that Phillip is actually the hotel developer she is sailing to meet… and deceive. Their lingering attraction only makes the execution of her plan more complicated, but she knows that she’ll lose both the project and the man if he ever learns the truth.
I’m never a fan of a Big Secret trope. By necessity, as a reader, you’re always waiting for the other shoe to drop once the truth is revealed. And here, the truth takes a long time to come out. But in the meantime, I really enjoyed Eva, specifically her independence and competence. This woman is a master of her craft, and more than that, is smart enough about people to know how to handle them. I liked how she recognized her own self worth, how she went after what she wanted, and stayed true to herself, even when it could mean losing the man she loved.
I liked Phillip well enough. In some ways, obviously, he was a man of his time, with his ideas about women, their place, and what they were capable of. He’s also got some issues from a prior relationship that went bad. But he had some good moments. Most of them were during sexy times, but hey, he came through in the end.
This is a low angst romance, with a unique setting, and a satisfying HEA. I wasn’t super emotionally engaged, but it was a pleasant read.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
Lady Eva is a talented architect who learned her craft at the feet of her renowned father. Unfortunately, her dad has developed dementia and can no longer work. To make matters worse, he mismanaged their money and despite his success, she can’t pay the bills. So she decides to use her own skill to fix the situation. Of course, no one will hire a woman as an architect, so she takes a lucrative job in New York, pretending to serve in her father’s stead. After all, she’s been designing in his name for years. What could possibly go wrong?
On her voyage to America, Eva meets a gorgeous and captivating man who she allows herself to indulge in a few indiscretions with. She has no idea that Phillip is actually the hotel developer she is sailing to meet… and deceive. Their lingering attraction only makes the execution of her plan more complicated, but she knows that she’ll lose both the project and the man if he ever learns the truth.
I’m never a fan of a Big Secret trope. By necessity, as a reader, you’re always waiting for the other shoe to drop once the truth is revealed. And here, the truth takes a long time to come out. But in the meantime, I really enjoyed Eva, specifically her independence and competence. This woman is a master of her craft, and more than that, is smart enough about people to know how to handle them. I liked how she recognized her own self worth, how she went after what she wanted, and stayed true to herself, even when it could mean losing the man she loved.
I liked Phillip well enough. In some ways, obviously, he was a man of his time, with his ideas about women, their place, and what they were capable of. He’s also got some issues from a prior relationship that went bad. But he had some good moments. Most of them were during sexy times, but hey, he came through in the end.
This is a low angst romance, with a unique setting, and a satisfying HEA. I wasn’t super emotionally engaged, but it was a pleasant read.
Rating: B
*ARC provided by publisher
May 6, 2020
Oh my God! I just love Joanna Shupe. She is so good. She writes Gilded Age romances which are so good. So so good.
In this one, we have a lady architect from England and a American hotel magnate. And boy do sparks fly. Joanna Shupe's books are good for two reasons. One, the chemistry between the characters is wonderful. The second is how nicely historically informed they are. They usually show how life is changing and the struggles the female characters have in making their own way. They also show the corruption in 1890s New York City.
I can't wait to read the 3rd book in this series.
In this one, we have a lady architect from England and a American hotel magnate. And boy do sparks fly. Joanna Shupe's books are good for two reasons. One, the chemistry between the characters is wonderful. The second is how nicely historically informed they are. They usually show how life is changing and the struggles the female characters have in making their own way. They also show the corruption in 1890s New York City.
I can't wait to read the 3rd book in this series.
December 13, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Publisher via Edelweiss***
3.5 Stars
Eva and Phillip live in a time when a woman is not able to be respected in a "man's world" so even though her father is ailing, and not able to work, andthe plans for Phillip's hotel were drawn by Eva, she lies and convinces everyone that she is in New York temporarily, and only in charge until her father arrives.
Phillip and Eva meet on a ship, crossing from the UK to New York. They have an illicit encounter, and they don't see one another again...she gives him a false name and leaves while he is sleeping.
So, they are both surprised when she turns out to be the architect on his newest project...although the reader sort of sees it coming. But, not in a bad way...as there had to be meet cute, and there had to be a reason for them to continue to stay together.
The parts of the story that are Eva and Phillip are interesting. And, the times where they address the discrimination toward women were interesting at first, but they actually started to cause the book to drag for me. And, it felt like the issue was addressed, and they then addressed it again...and again. And, I am not naive, I know this is not an issue that goes away in one discussion...but, at the same time, the book is fiction and dealing with this issue caused the pace of the story itself to slow down.
I did still enjoy it, but I would have liked a little less of the plot focused on her being a woman, and attacked/disrespected/assumed incompetent...as, well, it seemed a little too much like real life for fiction that is supposed to feel like an escape.
I enjoyed this title, and I recommend it.
3.5 Stars
Eva and Phillip live in a time when a woman is not able to be respected in a "man's world" so even though her father is ailing, and not able to work, andthe plans for Phillip's hotel were drawn by Eva, she lies and convinces everyone that she is in New York temporarily, and only in charge until her father arrives.
Phillip and Eva meet on a ship, crossing from the UK to New York. They have an illicit encounter, and they don't see one another again...she gives him a false name and leaves while he is sleeping.
So, they are both surprised when she turns out to be the architect on his newest project...although the reader sort of sees it coming. But, not in a bad way...as there had to be meet cute, and there had to be a reason for them to continue to stay together.
The parts of the story that are Eva and Phillip are interesting. And, the times where they address the discrimination toward women were interesting at first, but they actually started to cause the book to drag for me. And, it felt like the issue was addressed, and they then addressed it again...and again. And, I am not naive, I know this is not an issue that goes away in one discussion...but, at the same time, the book is fiction and dealing with this issue caused the pace of the story itself to slow down.
I did still enjoy it, but I would have liked a little less of the plot focused on her being a woman, and attacked/disrespected/assumed incompetent...as, well, it seemed a little too much like real life for fiction that is supposed to feel like an escape.
I enjoyed this title, and I recommend it.
August 19, 2024
I loved it! Of course I did. Being an architect myself I could not but admire the heroine and her determination to succeed in a man-domineering world.
Eva and Phillip are a great couple and I loved equally their altercations and affection.
Eva and Phillip are a great couple and I loved equally their altercations and affection.
January 22, 2023
A Scandalous Deal is the second instalment in The Four Hundred series by Joanna Shupe. This is also set in gilded age New York and features Miss Eva Hyde, an architect and Philip Mansfield, a businessman.
Lady Eva Hyde is famous as Lady Unlucky after her three fiance bizarrely passed away one after the other. She has now given up the idea of marriage and wants to be an architect just like her father who is incapacitated at the moment and can't take up projects which they are in dire need of. Eva thus decides to pass of her own designs as her father's seeing as there was no other option left and is therefore hired as the on site architect for the construction of Philip's luxury hotel.
Eva was quite savvy and progressive for a historical romance lead and I enjoyed her character throughout the book. Philip's character however was a bit of an enigma for me. I liked him at times but then he also managed to infuriate me so much that I rather liked Eva on her own than being with a man who put her down so much.
I was hoping for Philip to take a stand for her and believe in her when no one else did and he albeit did so for the last chapters but I would have liked it to come much earlier than it actually did. Nora passed with flying colors in this aspect for me. She was a truly amazing friend, one that everyone deserves to have in their lives.
Eva and Philip did share a strong sexual chemistry which made the steamy scenes in the book a lot of fun and quite enjoyable, I however found it lacking in the ultimate romance that I have come to expect from this genre.
3.5 stars.
Lady Eva Hyde is famous as Lady Unlucky after her three fiance bizarrely passed away one after the other. She has now given up the idea of marriage and wants to be an architect just like her father who is incapacitated at the moment and can't take up projects which they are in dire need of. Eva thus decides to pass of her own designs as her father's seeing as there was no other option left and is therefore hired as the on site architect for the construction of Philip's luxury hotel.
Eva was quite savvy and progressive for a historical romance lead and I enjoyed her character throughout the book. Philip's character however was a bit of an enigma for me. I liked him at times but then he also managed to infuriate me so much that I rather liked Eva on her own than being with a man who put her down so much.
I was hoping for Philip to take a stand for her and believe in her when no one else did and he albeit did so for the last chapters but I would have liked it to come much earlier than it actually did. Nora passed with flying colors in this aspect for me. She was a truly amazing friend, one that everyone deserves to have in their lives.
Eva and Philip did share a strong sexual chemistry which made the steamy scenes in the book a lot of fun and quite enjoyable, I however found it lacking in the ultimate romance that I have come to expect from this genre.
3.5 stars.
March 19, 2020
First of all, it really pains me to think that after hundreds of years, women still face the same issue that Eva Hyde is facing in this book. Deemed less than competent in some fields that are "men's business" or having husbands who prefer women to be just a wife and mother. Of course, women also have more options now, working at various fields (yes, architecture as well), but inequality still happens, still strong in some communities.
As for the book, I loved it, of course. I LOVED Eva... and I loved that after three dead fiancés, she was determined to grab her own fate and happiness. I loved that she made Phillips' life turned upside down. Yes, Eva lied about her taking her father's work, but I wouldn't blame her at all. I thought Eva was brave, intelligent, witty, and all around EXCELLENT character to read.
Phillip... well, I want him to do more groveling though *grin*. At least he learned his lesson and showed how much he adored Eva in the epilogue. But yes, I was not happy with Phillip not quickly taking a stand to be on Eva's side *pout*.
A great sexy book with strong heroine. Yep, I think I'll put Shupe in my "historical romance authors to follow" list. On to the final book of this series!
PS: Why is the female model in the cover NOT having Eva's red hair?!?
As for the book, I loved it, of course. I LOVED Eva... and I loved that after three dead fiancés, she was determined to grab her own fate and happiness. I loved that she made Phillips' life turned upside down. Yes, Eva lied about her taking her father's work, but I wouldn't blame her at all. I thought Eva was brave, intelligent, witty, and all around EXCELLENT character to read.
Phillip... well, I want him to do more groveling though *grin*. At least he learned his lesson and showed how much he adored Eva in the epilogue. But yes, I was not happy with Phillip not quickly taking a stand to be on Eva's side *pout*.
A great sexy book with strong heroine. Yep, I think I'll put Shupe in my "historical romance authors to follow" list. On to the final book of this series!
PS: Why is the female model in the cover NOT having Eva's red hair?!?
December 10, 2021
I liked this more than the first book in the series but it definitely isn't my favorite Shupe. Full RTC!
June 28, 2018
Have you ever read “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand from the 1943? The Scandalous Deal gave me the same vibe when it came to the construction site, lies, and finally love. Definitely a good quick read!
April 24, 2018
Coffee Dates with A Scandalous Deal
First Date: Our story begins on a ship traveling to New York City where Lady Eva Hyde meets Phillip Mansfield. Mansfield is traveling home from Paris, and Eva is traveling to oversee the building of a hotel her father the famous E.M. Hyde designed. Only her father didn't develop it. She did. Her father has been ill for over two years with Alzheimer's a disease that wouldn't be diagnosed until 1906. On board, neither knows who the other is, as they exchange more than a few kisses. I loved the set-up and appreciated this time to get to know Eva and her predicament. Right away I liked this young woman who bears the title Lady Unlucky. Upon arriving in New York, the two never get to exchange last names despite Phillip's attempts to locate her before departing. I loved witnessing their surprised faces when Eva shows up to meet Mr. Mansfield. And I am all in! The chemistry, banter, denials, and situation quickly transported me.
Second Date: I am currently watching The Alienist on television, and it is set in 1896 New York, and while it gave me a feel for the city, fashion and Four Hundred, Shupe wonderfully brought the city, social issues, crime, politics, and rapid changes occurring to life. Eva has shared who she is with Philip, but the two have agreed to not repeat what happened aboard ship. It was fun seeing them struggle with their attraction and the unorthodox situation of having Eva on the building site. Because her name is associated with being unlucky she is posing as Ms. Asford, Hyde's secretary. It caused quite the rumble and severed as the drama in the story. I enjoyed watching them tango. I laughed when they entered yet another arrangement. Poor Philip is flummoxed as Eva acts completely like a man at times. I adored her strength even if it all was a facade. Little side threads involving a lesbian, thugs and a renovation in Newport added interest and helped flesh out the characters. Phillip is completely swoon-worthy and with each page, and discovery, I fall a little harder.
Third Date: Secrets unveiled, betrayal and disappointments had me flipping the pages. Once again I am amazed at Eva. Yes she sort of lied, but her reasons and the time period have allowed me to completely forgive her. But will Philip? The man needs to get his head out of his arse. You'll have to read to discover if these two find happily-ever-after. I concluded my final date and once again found myself impressed with Joanne Shupe. This series is my first experience with her writing. From the historical aspects to the secondary characters I felt as if I stepped back in time and joined an exclusive circle. Anyone for some Earl Grey?
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date: Our story begins on a ship traveling to New York City where Lady Eva Hyde meets Phillip Mansfield. Mansfield is traveling home from Paris, and Eva is traveling to oversee the building of a hotel her father the famous E.M. Hyde designed. Only her father didn't develop it. She did. Her father has been ill for over two years with Alzheimer's a disease that wouldn't be diagnosed until 1906. On board, neither knows who the other is, as they exchange more than a few kisses. I loved the set-up and appreciated this time to get to know Eva and her predicament. Right away I liked this young woman who bears the title Lady Unlucky. Upon arriving in New York, the two never get to exchange last names despite Phillip's attempts to locate her before departing. I loved witnessing their surprised faces when Eva shows up to meet Mr. Mansfield. And I am all in! The chemistry, banter, denials, and situation quickly transported me.
Second Date: I am currently watching The Alienist on television, and it is set in 1896 New York, and while it gave me a feel for the city, fashion and Four Hundred, Shupe wonderfully brought the city, social issues, crime, politics, and rapid changes occurring to life. Eva has shared who she is with Philip, but the two have agreed to not repeat what happened aboard ship. It was fun seeing them struggle with their attraction and the unorthodox situation of having Eva on the building site. Because her name is associated with being unlucky she is posing as Ms. Asford, Hyde's secretary. It caused quite the rumble and severed as the drama in the story. I enjoyed watching them tango. I laughed when they entered yet another arrangement. Poor Philip is flummoxed as Eva acts completely like a man at times. I adored her strength even if it all was a facade. Little side threads involving a lesbian, thugs and a renovation in Newport added interest and helped flesh out the characters. Phillip is completely swoon-worthy and with each page, and discovery, I fall a little harder.
Third Date: Secrets unveiled, betrayal and disappointments had me flipping the pages. Once again I am amazed at Eva. Yes she sort of lied, but her reasons and the time period have allowed me to completely forgive her. But will Philip? The man needs to get his head out of his arse. You'll have to read to discover if these two find happily-ever-after. I concluded my final date and once again found myself impressed with Joanne Shupe. This series is my first experience with her writing. From the historical aspects to the secondary characters I felt as if I stepped back in time and joined an exclusive circle. Anyone for some Earl Grey?
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
February 18, 2020
Eva wants to be an architect, so she deceives a guy with serious issues with trust. Of course, this goes terribly, but somehow, love still happens. Again, the New York setting was interesting, but the premise was a lost cause for me, I think. It's too bad since it was nice seeing a not-evil mother in a romance novel.
December 20, 2020
Disfruto muchísimo leyendo a esta autora, sus tramas y personajes me enamoran siempre y no deja de maravillarme el excelente trabajo de documentación que hace para todas sus novelas. Que ganas de leer tanto el último de esta serie como el último de Uptown Girls, y a la vez me da pena cada vez que termino un libro de Shupe porque eso significa que me quedan menos libros de ella por leer.
October 29, 2018
4.5 stars! Really loved this one!
Want to read
August 3, 20198/3/19 $2.99 for eAudio via “Chirp”
Please note, you need to download the app to buy and play..
here is the link to the “deal.”
https://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks...
Please note, you need to download the app to buy and play..
here is the link to the “deal.”
https://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks...
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