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Fallen Angel
Man of Mystery
It was simple for Miss Verity Jolliffe to find out a great deal about Gabriel Rainsford, Lord Sherington. His good looks and wealth were evident. His arrogance and ruthlessness were legendary.
Still, a question remained. What could Sherington see in a modest young lady like her, when he had the voluptuous Eleanor Lowndes as his mistress, and the most beautiful belles of the town eager to be his bride? Did he want her as a plaything for his jaded desires? Or as a wife in a mockery of a marriage? Or as a means of revenge on all womankind? But whatever he wanted, Verity feared that one thing was certain. Caught in his spell, she would find it heartbreakingly hard to say no....
It was simple for Miss Verity Jolliffe to find out a great deal about Gabriel Rainsford, Lord Sherington. His good looks and wealth were evident. His arrogance and ruthlessness were legendary.
Still, a question remained. What could Sherington see in a modest young lady like her, when he had the voluptuous Eleanor Lowndes as his mistress, and the most beautiful belles of the town eager to be his bride? Did he want her as a plaything for his jaded desires? Or as a wife in a mockery of a marriage? Or as a means of revenge on all womankind? But whatever he wanted, Verity feared that one thing was certain. Caught in his spell, she would find it heartbreakingly hard to say no....
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 1, 1993
44 people are currently reading
932 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Louise Dolan
10 books53 followersCharlotte Louise Dolan earned a bachelors degree from Eastern Illinois University and a masters degree in German from Middlebury College. She has lived throughout the United States and in Germany, the Soviet Union, Canada, Taiwan, and Austria. A bookworm since the age of four, she fell in love with Regency England when she read her first Georgette Heyer book. Besides writing, she has worked as a high school Germany teacher, a toymaker, a tech editor, a genealogist, and a craft designer. She is the mother of three children.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 152 reviews
August 31, 2013
★★★★★ Whoa. I’d heard this book was very good, but it surpassed even my expectations. There is so much more here than meets the eye. The characters are nothing out of the ordinary – at first. But as I turned the pages they developed a depth and uniqueness that is not often found in this type of publication. Yes, I’ve heard the set-up before; nevertheless, Ms. Dolan managed to make these characters have their own distinct personalities and experience individual growth after spending time with one another. Truly a story of the power of unconditional love. I cried in two places and gobbled the book down whole last night in one sitting.
Definitely a book for my keeper shelf. I’ll be looking for more by this “new-2-me” author.
October 28, 2019
I love, love, love this book! Not a review, just a happy rave!
Verity and Gabriel (well named) - Haven’t loved a couple as much as this one in a while! It’s beyond sweet how their every waking hour, minute is spent thinking about the other (when and if they are not together) - she mooning and sighing, him irate and cussing at her for her not doing what he wants her to do - fall in love with him quickly so that he can propose and get his convenient moc.
Verity, I love for being the sweet, uncomplicated woman that she is. I love her for loving the H like she does - her little dried up spinster’s heart burns fiercely and passionately for him. The way she daydreams about him and lives for the next time she’d see him.
Usually it’s easy to dislike a h who acts doormat-y for her family but this one’s no goody two shoes. She’s just good but not too good. She strongly detests every woman - real or imagined, sight unseen - she thinks the H’s associated with or will be. And doesn’t shy away from saying NO to her stupid selfish sister when it’s most important!
Gabriel, our fallen angel, I love, adore, wanna crush and squeeze the life out of for being the sweetest fella under that grumpy, growling bearish façade. For not realizing how bad he’s fallen for the plain convenient would-be wife whom he’s maneuvering so hard and inexpertly to fall in love with him.
I totally applaud and admire his propensity to threaten and intimidate people in the most bully-like manner to get what he wants or especially if they threaten the h - his aunt, his mistress, his cousin, his disloyal servants. He doesn’t hold back, and threatens to destroy them like no H has ever dared to do! Normally the H’s aggression is saved for the h and not the mistress.
The mean, horribly selfish relatives I want to thank for inadvertently pushing these two at each other.
Best scene - hilariously so - the H trying to manage his house and new servants.
The book does get a bit slow and repetitive at times but overall puts up a very strong show. It’s not angsty in that exact way but is heart wrenchingly sweet!
Verity and Gabriel (well named) - Haven’t loved a couple as much as this one in a while! It’s beyond sweet how their every waking hour, minute is spent thinking about the other (when and if they are not together) - she mooning and sighing, him irate and cussing at her for her not doing what he wants her to do - fall in love with him quickly so that he can propose and get his convenient moc.
Verity, I love for being the sweet, uncomplicated woman that she is. I love her for loving the H like she does - her little dried up spinster’s heart burns fiercely and passionately for him. The way she daydreams about him and lives for the next time she’d see him.
Usually it’s easy to dislike a h who acts doormat-y for her family but this one’s no goody two shoes. She’s just good but not too good. She strongly detests every woman - real or imagined, sight unseen - she thinks the H’s associated with or will be. And doesn’t shy away from saying NO to her stupid selfish sister when it’s most important!
Gabriel, our fallen angel, I love, adore, wanna crush and squeeze the life out of for being the sweetest fella under that grumpy, growling bearish façade. For not realizing how bad he’s fallen for the plain convenient would-be wife whom he’s maneuvering so hard and inexpertly to fall in love with him.
I totally applaud and admire his propensity to threaten and intimidate people in the most bully-like manner to get what he wants or especially if they threaten the h - his aunt, his mistress, his cousin, his disloyal servants. He doesn’t hold back, and threatens to destroy them like no H has ever dared to do! Normally the H’s aggression is saved for the h and not the mistress.
The mean, horribly selfish relatives I want to thank for inadvertently pushing these two at each other.
Best scene - hilariously so - the H trying to manage his house and new servants.
The book does get a bit slow and repetitive at times but overall puts up a very strong show. It’s not angsty in that exact way but is heart wrenchingly sweet!
March 16, 2011
Fleeing London after an argument with a spiteful aunt, Gabriel, the Earl of Sherrington, runs across a woman stranded at a burned out coaching inn. Despite his inclination to ignore her and keep moving, something about Miss Verity Jolliffe's straightfoward request and lack of feminine wiles compels him to drive her the short distance to her family's home. After a lengthy discussion of sheep, they arrive at her family's modest home, where Gabriel discovers an ill-tempered family to rival his own.
Upon picking her up for their return trip, he asks her why she should go to the trouble of caring for such a bunch of ungracious louts, as they'll certainly never mend their ways. When she explains that love is not given with the expectation of getting something in return, or with the aim of changing a loved one's ways, Gabriel has an idea. Marrying Verity would net him the perfect wife. She doesn't natter on about fashions or gossip and by her own admission she'd never try to manipulate him with her love. He resolves to court her when they reach London. He'll turn up the charm, make her love him and get both the perfect wife and revenge on his distasteful heir apparent in one fell swoop
While I guess it was just another jaded rake seeks biddable miss regency, I really liked the characters. Gabriel was an arrogant alpha, which I normally despise, but I found him completely likeable. Something about his brusque, brutal honesty endeared him to me. Sure he was domineering and demanding, but he was pretty clear about it. He says to himself that he's deceiving Verity, but I'd hardly rate "being a bit nicer than usual while courting a girl I fully intend to marry" as a grand deception. He's pretty much himself - a forceful personality who plays to win - from the start. All he leaves out is why he's courting Verity. So while he may not have initially been motivated by love, he's still not planning a bait and switch. He can tell himself he's a callous businessman just trying to close a deal, but only a man totally smitten gifts a heirloom cookbook to a woman who's said she loves managing a household.
For her part, Verity rather likes the big jerk just the way he is. I should have thought her a Pollyanna doormat for how she just took her family's ill treatment of her in stride. Somehow, she managed to look strong doing it. I'd guess it's because she didn't excuse their behavior or let it alter how she looked at herself. They were boorish, but they were her family, and 26 year old spinsters don't get a lot of options in the housing department. It made sense that she'd be attracted to the demanding but forthright Gabriel. After years of being manipulated by her family's false smiles and hollow praise as though she were some half-wit, she finds his open demands quite refreshing. When he also treats her like an actualized person by grumpily urging her to stand up to her family and stop being so damn meek, she's a goner.
They make a fine pair - he the hard-nosed power broker and she the quietly determined peace maker. I couldn't help but enjoy the book, well-worn premise or not.
Upon picking her up for their return trip, he asks her why she should go to the trouble of caring for such a bunch of ungracious louts, as they'll certainly never mend their ways. When she explains that love is not given with the expectation of getting something in return, or with the aim of changing a loved one's ways, Gabriel has an idea. Marrying Verity would net him the perfect wife. She doesn't natter on about fashions or gossip and by her own admission she'd never try to manipulate him with her love. He resolves to court her when they reach London. He'll turn up the charm, make her love him and get both the perfect wife and revenge on his distasteful heir apparent in one fell swoop
While I guess it was just another jaded rake seeks biddable miss regency, I really liked the characters. Gabriel was an arrogant alpha, which I normally despise, but I found him completely likeable. Something about his brusque, brutal honesty endeared him to me. Sure he was domineering and demanding, but he was pretty clear about it. He says to himself that he's deceiving Verity, but I'd hardly rate "being a bit nicer than usual while courting a girl I fully intend to marry" as a grand deception. He's pretty much himself - a forceful personality who plays to win - from the start. All he leaves out is why he's courting Verity. So while he may not have initially been motivated by love, he's still not planning a bait and switch. He can tell himself he's a callous businessman just trying to close a deal, but only a man totally smitten gifts a heirloom cookbook to a woman who's said she loves managing a household.
For her part, Verity rather likes the big jerk just the way he is. I should have thought her a Pollyanna doormat for how she just took her family's ill treatment of her in stride. Somehow, she managed to look strong doing it. I'd guess it's because she didn't excuse their behavior or let it alter how she looked at herself. They were boorish, but they were her family, and 26 year old spinsters don't get a lot of options in the housing department. It made sense that she'd be attracted to the demanding but forthright Gabriel. After years of being manipulated by her family's false smiles and hollow praise as though she were some half-wit, she finds his open demands quite refreshing. When he also treats her like an actualized person by grumpily urging her to stand up to her family and stop being so damn meek, she's a goner.
They make a fine pair - he the hard-nosed power broker and she the quietly determined peace maker. I couldn't help but enjoy the book, well-worn premise or not.
December 31, 2019
Right now i kinda wish i had waited until Christmas Holidays to read "Fallen Angel" because of its humor and lively take on emotions of love,but my curiosity killed me after i read wonderful reviews written by my GR-Friends,so i started this book directly after it was my turn in Openlibrary.
I laughed and i cried while reading this book!God,what a wonderful sense of love this book delievered between the ruthless and self-indulgent Lord Gabriel Rainsford who without knowing falls for the intelligent and sensible spinster Verity Jolliffe. I love the natural way they meet for the first time,the way Gabriel expects Verity to be an annoying shrew like all the other females around him,but instead gets surprised by her raw honesty,intelligence and patience.What i love more is the way they got to really know each other`s personalities,and loving each other with all their hearts because of that!He is not a patient man,and not a very nice one either.To many he resembles the Fallen Angel Lucifer,and in proceeding to behave in that notion he decides to win Verity`s love after he decides that she will be the perfect choice of being a wife for him.I laughed so much that tears fell off my eyes on that journey.!!!
...and a very charming journey it was indeed!
I laughed and i cried while reading this book!God,what a wonderful sense of love this book delievered between the ruthless and self-indulgent Lord Gabriel Rainsford who without knowing falls for the intelligent and sensible spinster Verity Jolliffe. I love the natural way they meet for the first time,the way Gabriel expects Verity to be an annoying shrew like all the other females around him,but instead gets surprised by her raw honesty,intelligence and patience.What i love more is the way they got to really know each other`s personalities,and loving each other with all their hearts because of that!He is not a patient man,and not a very nice one either.To many he resembles the Fallen Angel Lucifer,and in proceeding to behave in that notion he decides to win Verity`s love after he decides that she will be the perfect choice of being a wife for him.I laughed so much that tears fell off my eyes on that journey.!!!
...and a very charming journey it was indeed!
February 1, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's OOP and very hard to find in the UK, but the libraries came up trumps and found me a copy from the wilds of t' North!
It tells the story of Verity Jollife, rather plain, twenty-six and unmarried, and Gabriel, Earl of Sherington. She is almost a generation younger than her older siblings and is regarded by them as a source of unpaid labour and generally treated as the poor relation.
Gabriel has a reputation for being a cold-hearted, calculating bastard. He's incredibly rich, having made his fortune in trade, but knows, having inherited his title, that society will nonetheless flock to his door. He doesn't get on well with his family either - although in fact, it turns out that those he had thought his relatives are not; at the beginning of the book, his aunt maliciously reveals that he may not be his father's son at all.
He is mistrustful of pretty much everybody, especially women, all of whom he believes are crafty and deceptive and only want him for his money and his title. He knows he will have to marry at some point, but is reluctant to select a bride from the ton, believing she will eventually reveal herself to be a manipulative harpy who seeks to change him and his lifestyle.
So when he meets Miss Verity Jollife and reluctantly agrees to take her up in his carriage, he is constantly surprised by her reactions to him, which are never what he expects them to be.
Having spent a little more time in her company, he decides she is exactly the sort of woman he could marry - she is quiet, sensible and her definition of love indicates to him that she would be content to leave him to his own devices after marriage.
Thereafter, he sets out to win her affections - little suspecting that she has already fallen hard for him.
To be honest though, I have to wonder why, because throughout almost the whole of their early acquaintance, he is rather cold and off-putting! He is actually angry when she doesn't declare her love for him after a week, which makes him seem rather like a petulant schoolboy who isn't getting his own way.
But when his history is unfolded, it becomes clearer why he might act that way; he was sent away from home and into the Navy at the age of 8 and spent much of his early years separated from his mother, so he has never been shown love or affection.
As the story progresses, Gabriel is shown to be a good man at heart - even though he denies this and insists on reminding people how ruthless he can be, it's clear by his actions that he is fair and straightforward, treating his servants as people rather than objects.
It also seems to me that, although his aim is to have Verity fall in love with him so that he can marry her, he is hardly indifferent, even though he doesn't admit it. He misses her on the days he doesn't see her; where he had at first thought her plain, he finds more to admire in her ever time he sees her; and he understands her well enough to know that she will enjoy the gift of a book on housekeeping (which is also a generations-old family heirloom) more than one of valuable jewellery.
He gets angry with Verity for letting her relatives treat her as a dogsbody - and even though that is true, she is not diminished by it. Somehow, Dolan has written her character in such a way as to make her tolerance of their behaviour towards her into a strength rather than a weakness. But I was glad when she finally realises that although she might love her family - she doesn't necessarily like them, and when she finally stands up to her overbearing sister; something Verity admits her acquaintance with Gabriel has given her the fortitude to do.
I rattled through the book in a few hours, eager to discover more about the protagonists and to watch their relationship develop.
It's a lovely read and the ending is just perfect.
It tells the story of Verity Jollife, rather plain, twenty-six and unmarried, and Gabriel, Earl of Sherington. She is almost a generation younger than her older siblings and is regarded by them as a source of unpaid labour and generally treated as the poor relation.
Gabriel has a reputation for being a cold-hearted, calculating bastard. He's incredibly rich, having made his fortune in trade, but knows, having inherited his title, that society will nonetheless flock to his door. He doesn't get on well with his family either - although in fact, it turns out that those he had thought his relatives are not; at the beginning of the book, his aunt maliciously reveals that he may not be his father's son at all.
He is mistrustful of pretty much everybody, especially women, all of whom he believes are crafty and deceptive and only want him for his money and his title. He knows he will have to marry at some point, but is reluctant to select a bride from the ton, believing she will eventually reveal herself to be a manipulative harpy who seeks to change him and his lifestyle.
So when he meets Miss Verity Jollife and reluctantly agrees to take her up in his carriage, he is constantly surprised by her reactions to him, which are never what he expects them to be.
Having spent a little more time in her company, he decides she is exactly the sort of woman he could marry - she is quiet, sensible and her definition of love indicates to him that she would be content to leave him to his own devices after marriage.
Thereafter, he sets out to win her affections - little suspecting that she has already fallen hard for him.
To be honest though, I have to wonder why, because throughout almost the whole of their early acquaintance, he is rather cold and off-putting! He is actually angry when she doesn't declare her love for him after a week, which makes him seem rather like a petulant schoolboy who isn't getting his own way.
But when his history is unfolded, it becomes clearer why he might act that way; he was sent away from home and into the Navy at the age of 8 and spent much of his early years separated from his mother, so he has never been shown love or affection.
As the story progresses, Gabriel is shown to be a good man at heart - even though he denies this and insists on reminding people how ruthless he can be, it's clear by his actions that he is fair and straightforward, treating his servants as people rather than objects.
It also seems to me that, although his aim is to have Verity fall in love with him so that he can marry her, he is hardly indifferent, even though he doesn't admit it. He misses her on the days he doesn't see her; where he had at first thought her plain, he finds more to admire in her ever time he sees her; and he understands her well enough to know that she will enjoy the gift of a book on housekeeping (which is also a generations-old family heirloom) more than one of valuable jewellery.
He gets angry with Verity for letting her relatives treat her as a dogsbody - and even though that is true, she is not diminished by it. Somehow, Dolan has written her character in such a way as to make her tolerance of their behaviour towards her into a strength rather than a weakness. But I was glad when she finally realises that although she might love her family - she doesn't necessarily like them, and when she finally stands up to her overbearing sister; something Verity admits her acquaintance with Gabriel has given her the fortitude to do.
I rattled through the book in a few hours, eager to discover more about the protagonists and to watch their relationship develop.
It's a lovely read and the ending is just perfect.
February 24, 2019
Dry and acerbic humor in this Regency romance that has a touch of Barbara Metzger to it.
Dual POV, but the hero takes the honors even if is more than a little grumpy, suspicious and harsh on the outside. It takes him the whole page count to figure out why he is so set on making the heroine fall in love with him.
Plot:
The hero is the current Earl and made his fortune at sea. He was sent away as a very young boy because he was not the elder Earl's son, a fact that his thrown in his face by his horrible aunt. If rotten relatives are a hot button for you, then get ready, they are thick on the ground for both hero and heroine. The hero's aunt and her son plot with his own servants to keep him single, and the poor heroine is saddled with indifferent parents and a self-centered idiot for a sister. There are moments when she verges into martyrdom, but she ends up saving herself and us as readers from that namby pamby fate.
The hero wants the heroine basically because she is less of an idiot than most of the women out there, and his wooing of choice as I mentioned is to MAKE her fall in love with him. The best he can come up with is to tolerate her sister and her family. Not really necessary as the plain h falls for him at the gitgo.
Time's awasting for me so cutting this short. The H's legal father was a pig of epic proportions, and his mother died while he was at sea so the H has very good reasons to be such a hard and harsh man. Enjoyable low boil romance that would have been a 4 star if the author had circled back and resolved the rotten relatives. The H's auntie needed a comeuppance as well as the h's awful sister. It is just not enough to know they'll be chewing the carpet once they find out the H and h married, and they are socially banished by the wealthy and powerful H.
Dual POV, but the hero takes the honors even if is more than a little grumpy, suspicious and harsh on the outside. It takes him the whole page count to figure out why he is so set on making the heroine fall in love with him.
Plot:
The hero is the current Earl and made his fortune at sea. He was sent away as a very young boy because he was not the elder Earl's son, a fact that his thrown in his face by his horrible aunt. If rotten relatives are a hot button for you, then get ready, they are thick on the ground for both hero and heroine. The hero's aunt and her son plot with his own servants to keep him single, and the poor heroine is saddled with indifferent parents and a self-centered idiot for a sister. There are moments when she verges into martyrdom, but she ends up saving herself and us as readers from that namby pamby fate.
The hero wants the heroine basically because she is less of an idiot than most of the women out there, and his wooing of choice as I mentioned is to MAKE her fall in love with him. The best he can come up with is to tolerate her sister and her family. Not really necessary as the plain h falls for him at the gitgo.
Time's awasting for me so cutting this short. The H's legal father was a pig of epic proportions, and his mother died while he was at sea so the H has very good reasons to be such a hard and harsh man. Enjoyable low boil romance that would have been a 4 star if the author had circled back and resolved the rotten relatives. The H's auntie needed a comeuppance as well as the h's awful sister. It is just not enough to know they'll be chewing the carpet once they find out the H and h married, and they are socially banished by the wealthy and powerful H.
June 24, 2015
FALLEN ANGEL refers to Gabriel Rainsford, Lord Sherington, a very rich man who does not realize how unhappy he is until he meets Verity Joliffe. His childhood was one continual hardship that molded him into the hard egotistic nobleman he eventually becomes. When he reached the age of twenty-one and inherited the title of Earl, he learned to trust no one. 'Love' is a game and he will not be suckered into considering marriage. Until he meets Verity.
Considered to be a timid mouse, Verity's relatives use her. When the two finally meet Gabriel contemplates life with this woman. At this point I need to mention that Ms. Dolan did not glamorize her looks; he sees her as a plain-looking woman. Gabriel feels he can mold her into what he wants and still be the same man he is. He gives himself a timetable to get her to fall in love with him. Notice when I say fall in love with him and not the other way around. Because he has no wish to change.
This 'gentleman' is not the most likeable person. And unknown to Gabriel, Verity falls in love with him at first sight but she does not say anything. Gabriel, wondering what has happened to his magic touch, can't understand why she hasn't said she loves him as so many other women have done before.
I enjoyed the fact that not everything was perfect with their relationship. Verity caused Gabriel to have his doubts. This was a man who rarely had things not go his way since reaching adulthood and now there was an conflict in his life.
The romance starts out slow but wait until this unusual couple finally meet. Then watch the confusion on Gabriel's part and Verity learning to become bolder. Their personalities rub off on each other. And only for the better. This is a couple you would still see happily married after 50 years.
Considered to be a timid mouse, Verity's relatives use her. When the two finally meet Gabriel contemplates life with this woman. At this point I need to mention that Ms. Dolan did not glamorize her looks; he sees her as a plain-looking woman. Gabriel feels he can mold her into what he wants and still be the same man he is. He gives himself a timetable to get her to fall in love with him. Notice when I say fall in love with him and not the other way around. Because he has no wish to change.
This 'gentleman' is not the most likeable person. And unknown to Gabriel, Verity falls in love with him at first sight but she does not say anything. Gabriel, wondering what has happened to his magic touch, can't understand why she hasn't said she loves him as so many other women have done before.
I enjoyed the fact that not everything was perfect with their relationship. Verity caused Gabriel to have his doubts. This was a man who rarely had things not go his way since reaching adulthood and now there was an conflict in his life.
The romance starts out slow but wait until this unusual couple finally meet. Then watch the confusion on Gabriel's part and Verity learning to become bolder. Their personalities rub off on each other. And only for the better. This is a couple you would still see happily married after 50 years.
January 19, 2014
What a great book! I absolutely loved it! This author is an amazing writer. If every author wrote this good, I would be giving every book 4 and 5 stars. I didn't even like the description of the hero. He was described as not being actually handsome (which is one of my biggest pet peeves) but the hero was written so intriguingly that I couldn't turn away. He was ruthless, and he didn't take crap from anyone or mince words when putting someone down. Here is a conversation between him and his mistress: "Have your taste become so perverted that you can prefer her to me? "My dear do you have any idea how boring you have become?" LOL! I also loved the story-line of the hero trying to make the heroine fall in love with him, while all the while she already loved him from the first time she saw him.
The heroine feelings for him was so adorable. She was absolutely gaga over him, and I could relate to the way she yearned for him. It was like a teenager falling in love for the first time, (been there, done that, lol). What I loved best about this book though, was watching the hero fall in love with her gradually even though he didn't seem at all attracted to her in the beginning. Every thought and action he did made the reader know that he was falling in love with the heroine. He didn't say I love you until the last sentence in the book but the reader knew without a doubt that he loved the heroine. He didn't have to utter a word. Now that's what I call great writing! ! LCD can teach some of these authors today... Showing and not only telling.
The heroine feelings for him was so adorable. She was absolutely gaga over him, and I could relate to the way she yearned for him. It was like a teenager falling in love for the first time, (been there, done that, lol). What I loved best about this book though, was watching the hero fall in love with her gradually even though he didn't seem at all attracted to her in the beginning. Every thought and action he did made the reader know that he was falling in love with the heroine. He didn't say I love you until the last sentence in the book but the reader knew without a doubt that he loved the heroine. He didn't have to utter a word. Now that's what I call great writing! ! LCD can teach some of these authors today... Showing and not only telling.
September 15, 2012
I really enjoyed this one. It had a few things I would have liked tweaked, but overall I just loved our characters, especially Gabriel. He definitely has the whole tortured-hero thing going on. While he was pretty rough and considered ruthless, he really has a good heart. It’s just buried deep down. I loved how he handled people, especially those that were trying to hurt him or Verity. I especially loved a scene where Gabriel is interviewing his new staff, it was so funny and sweet at the same time. I think it was then that you see his true self, and I admit it made me like him all the more.
I loved the relationship between Gabriel and Verity. I think he fell in love with her right from the beginning; it just took him awhile to figure things out. I loved that the longer he got to know her, the more beautiful he found her. I loved how he was protective of her and would do anything for her. Even endure her obnoxious family. They are a good influence on each other. Gabriel helps give her strength and see that she deserves to be treated better by her family. Verity is a great calming influence on Gabriel, and teaches him subtly about love. I kept wondering why he insisted on winning her love before proposing. It didn't seem like him, considering his feelings on love. The only thing I can come up with is that like I said earlier, he loved her from the beginning and wanted to do things right with her.
The few things I would tweak. First, the story opens and Gabriel has a mistress, one he is quickly getting tired of. I just hate those storylines, but whatever. Second, while this is a clean read, there are a few innuendos, but I will say, it always felt more like Gabriel loved Verity not just lusted after her. Anyway, the last thing that really bugged me was Verity saying she would do anything to be with Gabriel, including being his mistress. She claims she would be happy if he even offered her that much, so long as she could be near him. DUH! I could literally go on for pages of why that is such a bad idea, but I won’t. I will say, she kept her thoughts to herself and I liked that while she had a lot of inner turmoil going on, she always presented a strong face to Gabriel. And, luckily, Gabriel always had honorable intentions towards Verity.
Overall, I really loved the story and plot. I have probably used the word “love” way too many times in this review, but I don’t care. This is one of those books where the characters really came alive for me, they felt real. I was sad when it ended, I wanted more. I wanted to see behind the HEA, what would married life be like for them? I wish there were a sequel.
Content: Clean. Mild talk of mistresses and mild innuendos.
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I loved the relationship between Gabriel and Verity. I think he fell in love with her right from the beginning; it just took him awhile to figure things out. I loved that the longer he got to know her, the more beautiful he found her. I loved how he was protective of her and would do anything for her. Even endure her obnoxious family. They are a good influence on each other. Gabriel helps give her strength and see that she deserves to be treated better by her family. Verity is a great calming influence on Gabriel, and teaches him subtly about love. I kept wondering why he insisted on winning her love before proposing. It didn't seem like him, considering his feelings on love. The only thing I can come up with is that like I said earlier, he loved her from the beginning and wanted to do things right with her.
The few things I would tweak. First, the story opens and Gabriel has a mistress, one he is quickly getting tired of. I just hate those storylines, but whatever. Second, while this is a clean read, there are a few innuendos, but I will say, it always felt more like Gabriel loved Verity not just lusted after her. Anyway, the last thing that really bugged me was Verity saying she would do anything to be with Gabriel, including being his mistress. She claims she would be happy if he even offered her that much, so long as she could be near him. DUH! I could literally go on for pages of why that is such a bad idea, but I won’t. I will say, she kept her thoughts to herself and I liked that while she had a lot of inner turmoil going on, she always presented a strong face to Gabriel. And, luckily, Gabriel always had honorable intentions towards Verity.
Overall, I really loved the story and plot. I have probably used the word “love” way too many times in this review, but I don’t care. This is one of those books where the characters really came alive for me, they felt real. I was sad when it ended, I wanted more. I wanted to see behind the HEA, what would married life be like for them? I wish there were a sequel.
Content: Clean. Mild talk of mistresses and mild innuendos.
Similar Reads: Reforming Lord Ragsdale
November 14, 2018
Re-read 14/11/2018
This time around, I managed to find the error that eluded me the first time: there was a spot where Miss Jennings hadn't been corrected for Miss Jolliffe.
I have to admit that the first few chapters really annoyed me. Here was perfect Miss Verity Jolliffe, happy to let her family walk all over her and her concerns, effectively treating her as an unpaid servant instead of a valued member of her family. I did however appreciate how easily she could read Gabriel Sherrington and could tell when he was being disingenuous, since she was so accustomed to her family's manipulations.
Then I slowly fell for her, and how Gabriel imagined her. Despite initially wooing Verity with a high degree of calculation, I loved that over the time that they spent together, he slowly came to see her beauty, her true and constant heart, as well as her uncomplicated and honest nature. She really was someone who strove to see the good in people, and it took a great deal before she questioned it. If she was naive, she was still the sweeter for being able to see the kindness and wanting to soothe the hurt in those she cared the most.
I guess that it was hard for me to understand why Verity fell so quickly for Gabriel (and on reflection, I think that it was because she had been a spinster for so long, any positive attention would've been enough to turn her feelings into love). But I still maintain that it was a beautifully written story, and there were some excellent touches through it all. Maybe her relations might've been painted in too broad a brush (as were some of Gabriel's), but I loved how Gabriel treated his household staff, and reduced them to happy tears (honestly, that was the cutest scene!).
In the end, it was still a solid read, and I enjoyed it as much this time as I had the first time I read it.
---
*SQUEEEEAAAAAAL* That was the best!!! I have never read such a beautifully written clean romance - and if I have, I may have to re-read it!
"Fallen Angel" features two of the most interesting characters I've ever read.
On the one hand, we have the alpha male, Gabriel. You know? The one who has been given such looks, money and honoured title, he should be in want for nothing... except that he actually isn't the true son of the late Lord Sherington, which has therefore earnt disdain from the Rainsford side of the family. Also, beneath his quick-fire temper and stern expectations, there was actually a pretty decent heart beating there (in particular the scene where he met his motley crew of household staff for the first time. I laughed myself silly to the point where I think my husband thought me perhaps gone in the head).
Then, we have Verity. Presented to readers as a mouse of a woman to begin with, her intelligence, honesty and warmth towards those most deserving was a delight to behold. I was glad for her when she finally found her voice!
I LOVED that this book focused on their courtship - as unconventional as it was! - rather than just solely their physical attraction. Instead of the usual flowers, jewellery, etc, there's a lot of shared confidences, meaningful gifts, and the lovely idea of just wanting to share your thoughts and moments with the person that you loved the most.
I honestly could not think of a single negative thing about this book whatsoever, and if I could, I probably would've overlooked them for the sheer wonderful feelings I took away from this book.
This time around, I managed to find the error that eluded me the first time: there was a spot where Miss Jennings hadn't been corrected for Miss Jolliffe.
I have to admit that the first few chapters really annoyed me. Here was perfect Miss Verity Jolliffe, happy to let her family walk all over her and her concerns, effectively treating her as an unpaid servant instead of a valued member of her family. I did however appreciate how easily she could read Gabriel Sherrington and could tell when he was being disingenuous, since she was so accustomed to her family's manipulations.
Then I slowly fell for her, and how Gabriel imagined her. Despite initially wooing Verity with a high degree of calculation, I loved that over the time that they spent together, he slowly came to see her beauty, her true and constant heart, as well as her uncomplicated and honest nature. She really was someone who strove to see the good in people, and it took a great deal before she questioned it. If she was naive, she was still the sweeter for being able to see the kindness and wanting to soothe the hurt in those she cared the most.
I guess that it was hard for me to understand why Verity fell so quickly for Gabriel (and on reflection, I think that it was because she had been a spinster for so long, any positive attention would've been enough to turn her feelings into love). But I still maintain that it was a beautifully written story, and there were some excellent touches through it all. Maybe her relations might've been painted in too broad a brush (as were some of Gabriel's), but I loved how Gabriel treated his household staff, and reduced them to happy tears (honestly, that was the cutest scene!).
In the end, it was still a solid read, and I enjoyed it as much this time as I had the first time I read it.
---
*SQUEEEEAAAAAAL* That was the best!!! I have never read such a beautifully written clean romance - and if I have, I may have to re-read it!
"Fallen Angel" features two of the most interesting characters I've ever read.
On the one hand, we have the alpha male, Gabriel. You know? The one who has been given such looks, money and honoured title, he should be in want for nothing... except that he actually isn't the true son of the late Lord Sherington, which has therefore earnt disdain from the Rainsford side of the family. Also, beneath his quick-fire temper and stern expectations, there was actually a pretty decent heart beating there (in particular the scene where he met his motley crew of household staff for the first time. I laughed myself silly to the point where I think my husband thought me perhaps gone in the head).
Then, we have Verity. Presented to readers as a mouse of a woman to begin with, her intelligence, honesty and warmth towards those most deserving was a delight to behold. I was glad for her when she finally found her voice!
I LOVED that this book focused on their courtship - as unconventional as it was! - rather than just solely their physical attraction. Instead of the usual flowers, jewellery, etc, there's a lot of shared confidences, meaningful gifts, and the lovely idea of just wanting to share your thoughts and moments with the person that you loved the most.
I honestly could not think of a single negative thing about this book whatsoever, and if I could, I probably would've overlooked them for the sheer wonderful feelings I took away from this book.
May 2, 2018
Finally, I could read the book.
I haven't so good time in a HR for a long time. Last night, I counted the HR books that I haven't finished, and I haven't marked DNF yet. There were 5...
Maybe because of that I have been reading all kinds of CR books recently and this book made the day for me. I couldn't drop it and it was so sweet and engaging.
Even though, it has not a unique plot, with characterization and its narrative it's absolutely a new experience for me for a HR book. Especially, I liked hero very much. I can say that as if the book was about him more than a couple's story. He was very original hero. :)
I'll definetly try another books of the author. Thanks for my GRs friends that helped me to notice the book.
I haven't so good time in a HR for a long time. Last night, I counted the HR books that I haven't finished, and I haven't marked DNF yet. There were 5...
Maybe because of that I have been reading all kinds of CR books recently and this book made the day for me. I couldn't drop it and it was so sweet and engaging.
Even though, it has not a unique plot, with characterization and its narrative it's absolutely a new experience for me for a HR book. Especially, I liked hero very much. I can say that as if the book was about him more than a couple's story. He was very original hero. :)
I'll definetly try another books of the author. Thanks for my GRs friends that helped me to notice the book.
July 5, 2016
At this point I have re-read this book often enough that I can almost remember every scene in succession, and I must say that it will remain one of my favorite historical romance. This one being the traditional regency that it falls under has little "steam," so everything is characterization and plot. Oh, what wonderful characterizations we have here.
This heroine is arguably the most unique I've ever read - a spinster who uncomplainingly helps her ungrateful family, but isn't exactly a pushover, who is logical, kind, yet loves with an undying loyalty and always willing to defend her love's best interests. And the hero is incredibly kind but honestly believes that he is ruthless (in a way, it is just his armor) while his actions speak to a far greater kindness than most others of his class. Yet, he is just so frustrated that the heroine isn't falling in with his plans of making her fall in love with him when she has already fallen for him at first sight!
This is simply a delightful read. :)
This heroine is arguably the most unique I've ever read - a spinster who uncomplainingly helps her ungrateful family, but isn't exactly a pushover, who is logical, kind, yet loves with an undying loyalty and always willing to defend her love's best interests. And the hero is incredibly kind but honestly believes that he is ruthless (in a way, it is just his armor) while his actions speak to a far greater kindness than most others of his class. Yet, he is just so frustrated that the heroine isn't falling in with his plans of making her fall in love with him when she has already fallen for him at first sight!
This is simply a delightful read. :)
May 14, 2013
At eight years old, Gabriel Rainsford was sent to sea to die by his father-in-name-only, an evil-tempered earl cuckolded by his unloved wife. That Gabriel survived the brutal conditions of the merchant marines and eventually succeeded in life was thanks to his willingness to win at all cost and to a provident inheritance from an unknown relative. He returns to England years later as the new earl, and faces family resentments and insubordinate servants. During a solitary trip at Christmastime, he meets a calm, unprepossessing spinster who changes the course of his life when he decides to change hers.
When they meet, Verity Joliffe is nothing like the women he knows in Society; she's forthright, intelligent and without guile. She doesn't prattle or try to manipulate him. She loves her family though they treat her like a drudge; and her explanation for her feelings demonstrates her character and dignity. He decides, impetuously, that she would make him a fine countess. So he undertakes a campaign to make her love him. It doesn't go as planned. Along the way, however, he and Verity becomes loyal friends, who help one another heal old wounds.
Verity, the object of Gabriel's impatient, irascible affection, comes into her own under his rough care. She falls for him quickly, but then she's led a sheltered, diminished life. She sees his sterling qualities through the bluster and never suspects his serious intentions. When he turns to her for help with domestic matters, or escorts her in society, she grows more confident of herself and her worth and loves him more deeply. But she anticipates losing his interest at any time. When she finally realizes her family loyalty is unreciprocated, she loses patience with them and strikes out on her own.
Gabriel is consistently and often hilariously bad-tempered as his efforts to "make her" love him fizzle. He's also dictatorial and plainspoken; yet, he's sweetly vulnerable. After sacking his entire treacherous staff, and with Verity's help, he hires a motley bunch turned off unfairly by others. On day one, he brings his new housekeeper, butler and valet to tears - of joy - with his generosity and gets thoroughly annoyed (a very funny scene that says everything about his true character). Gabriel would be today's ideal alpha: he is very rich, utterly managing, sexy, capable of transforming the heroine's life, fiercely protective and he is a wounded soul deserving love. He's a big, blustery grouch to Verity, but dear when it matters most. He also makes the best, worst non-proposal I've read. While hauling her unceremoniously to St. George's with a special license in hand, he tells her, "Do not even think about trying to dissuade me, because I have completely lost patience with you, and I am not prepared to be at all reasonable in this matter."
If I gave plot specifics, you'd understand why the romance worked so nicely, but I'd be spoiling the fun of reading about all the ways she confounds him without meaning to till he's driven to take decisive action. It's OOP so keep an eye out at thrift stores or online.
4.5 stars, she's a bit passive for my taste, though it's true to her character. And there's sloppy editing, with the main characters given different names in places.
When they meet, Verity Joliffe is nothing like the women he knows in Society; she's forthright, intelligent and without guile. She doesn't prattle or try to manipulate him. She loves her family though they treat her like a drudge; and her explanation for her feelings demonstrates her character and dignity. He decides, impetuously, that she would make him a fine countess. So he undertakes a campaign to make her love him. It doesn't go as planned. Along the way, however, he and Verity becomes loyal friends, who help one another heal old wounds.
Verity, the object of Gabriel's impatient, irascible affection, comes into her own under his rough care. She falls for him quickly, but then she's led a sheltered, diminished life. She sees his sterling qualities through the bluster and never suspects his serious intentions. When he turns to her for help with domestic matters, or escorts her in society, she grows more confident of herself and her worth and loves him more deeply. But she anticipates losing his interest at any time. When she finally realizes her family loyalty is unreciprocated, she loses patience with them and strikes out on her own.
Gabriel is consistently and often hilariously bad-tempered as his efforts to "make her" love him fizzle. He's also dictatorial and plainspoken; yet, he's sweetly vulnerable. After sacking his entire treacherous staff, and with Verity's help, he hires a motley bunch turned off unfairly by others. On day one, he brings his new housekeeper, butler and valet to tears - of joy - with his generosity and gets thoroughly annoyed (a very funny scene that says everything about his true character). Gabriel would be today's ideal alpha: he is very rich, utterly managing, sexy, capable of transforming the heroine's life, fiercely protective and he is a wounded soul deserving love. He's a big, blustery grouch to Verity, but dear when it matters most. He also makes the best, worst non-proposal I've read. While hauling her unceremoniously to St. George's with a special license in hand, he tells her, "Do not even think about trying to dissuade me, because I have completely lost patience with you, and I am not prepared to be at all reasonable in this matter."
If I gave plot specifics, you'd understand why the romance worked so nicely, but I'd be spoiling the fun of reading about all the ways she confounds him without meaning to till he's driven to take decisive action. It's OOP so keep an eye out at thrift stores or online.
4.5 stars, she's a bit passive for my taste, though it's true to her character. And there's sloppy editing, with the main characters given different names in places.
January 3, 2016
This was very well done. It has been a long time since I have read a historical romance. For some reason, I have found it difficult to get back into that genre, much preferring contemporary romance and chick lit. However, this book was the exception that drew me back.
I really enjoyed the hero and heroine. They were both beautifully portrayed. Their interactions were downright funny and it was a joy to watch the hero find himself.
An engaging read and one I highly recommend to all lovers of historical romances.
I really enjoyed the hero and heroine. They were both beautifully portrayed. Their interactions were downright funny and it was a joy to watch the hero find himself.
An engaging read and one I highly recommend to all lovers of historical romances.
November 16, 2019
Sweet,traditional and character driven romance story. Ordinary in a extraordinary way.
August 8, 2023
I love how old covers actually reflect important plot points (see green cloak). Read via library.
August 16, 2019
3.75 stars.
I liked it. It was an engaging and interesting read.
I liked it. It was an engaging and interesting read.
September 26, 2017
It did not matter that Lord Sherington had left her alone in the box while he went to meet with his mistress, Verity realized. Now that he was sitting beside her again, she admitted to herself that he could have a dozen mistresses and parade around with them in public—and she would willingly bear any disgrace just to be with him.
Enough said! I can't bear doormat insipid heroines. Not only was she plain of appearance, but far worse, she was also plain and colourless in personality. Being the good doormat that she was, she allowed not only her whole family to walk all over her, but even the staff were disrespectful and rude to her, and she certainly would not object to the hero's mistreatment of her if he cared to do so, so lacking she was in self-worth. Fortunately, the hero thought better than join the long queue of people lining up to stomp on her, although he was a bit nonsensical, expecting her to fall desperately in love with him after just one outing, never mind that the desperate affection-starved heroine already was in love with him from the first courtesy he showed her. I kept reading on, hoping it would get better, and that she would start to grow backbone and some resemblance of dignity and spirit. Instead, her talks with him revealed a love for “reading books on housewifery and collecting recipes and instructions" and her inner dialogue consisted of how neared tears she was at the thought of him withdrawing his attention from her after only a few days acquaintance. Tolerating constant insults and disrespect from all around her did not speak of her kindness but merely stupidity and lack of self-respect. DNF 41%.
Enough said! I can't bear doormat insipid heroines. Not only was she plain of appearance, but far worse, she was also plain and colourless in personality. Being the good doormat that she was, she allowed not only her whole family to walk all over her, but even the staff were disrespectful and rude to her, and she certainly would not object to the hero's mistreatment of her if he cared to do so, so lacking she was in self-worth. Fortunately, the hero thought better than join the long queue of people lining up to stomp on her, although he was a bit nonsensical, expecting her to fall desperately in love with him after just one outing, never mind that the desperate affection-starved heroine already was in love with him from the first courtesy he showed her. I kept reading on, hoping it would get better, and that she would start to grow backbone and some resemblance of dignity and spirit. Instead, her talks with him revealed a love for “reading books on housewifery and collecting recipes and instructions" and her inner dialogue consisted of how neared tears she was at the thought of him withdrawing his attention from her after only a few days acquaintance. Tolerating constant insults and disrespect from all around her did not speak of her kindness but merely stupidity and lack of self-respect. DNF 41%.
February 25, 2021
Re-Read 2021
Not sure why I love it but it's still a favorite.
2008 Review
I love Signet Regency romance novels, but this is the only one on my list of all time favorite books. Verity, the heroine of the book is such a real person! She is an old maid, a homebody, and quite plain. Lord Sherington is a rich, ruthless bachelor and when he decides that Verity would be the perfect wife for him (she won't try and change him at all!) he sets out to make her fall in love with him. The best part of the book is watching Lord Sherington's feelings for and opinions of Verity slowly change and feeling his frustration when he thinks she still doesn't love him.
Not sure why I love it but it's still a favorite.
2008 Review
I love Signet Regency romance novels, but this is the only one on my list of all time favorite books. Verity, the heroine of the book is such a real person! She is an old maid, a homebody, and quite plain. Lord Sherington is a rich, ruthless bachelor and when he decides that Verity would be the perfect wife for him (she won't try and change him at all!) he sets out to make her fall in love with him. The best part of the book is watching Lord Sherington's feelings for and opinions of Verity slowly change and feeling his frustration when he thinks she still doesn't love him.
July 5, 2017
3.25 stars.
I like the story and the grumpy hero.
But I couldn't stand the heroine, while I understand why the author pair the hero with the heroine like this. Her attitude and inner dialogue toward love and her family made me grit my teeth often. Also why she thought is ok for Gabriel to have mistresses as long as she still can have him?
Oh dear oh dear....
The girl need lots of courage injections into her backbone to make her appreciate herself more, she did that, at 84% of the story, sigh.
But, Gabriel save the book for me!:)
And no, no cheating eventhought at the first, the heroine think it was ok.
I like the story and the grumpy hero.
But I couldn't stand the heroine, while I understand why the author pair the hero with the heroine like this. Her attitude and inner dialogue toward love and her family made me grit my teeth often. Also why she thought is ok for Gabriel to have mistresses as long as she still can have him?
Oh dear oh dear....
The girl need lots of courage injections into her backbone to make her appreciate herself more, she did that, at 84% of the story, sigh.
But, Gabriel save the book for me!:)
And no, no cheating eventhought at the first, the heroine think it was ok.
November 1, 2013
Very sweet trad romance by a revered author. She wonders what he sees in her; other men ignore her and her family considers her a spinster/unpaid servant. He can't understand why she won't fall in love with him; every other woman he has wanted fell into his arms. Wonderful! (Thanks Christopher!)
February 9, 2019
Objectively - a two star read. But subjectively, I find I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
My semi-recent re-read of Three Lords for Lady Anne reminded me that I enjoy the writings of Charlotte Louise Dolan. So I decided to give her another try.
I conclude that I still enjoy her writing style. At least, I must, because Fallen Angel has little else going for it and almost nothing to explain why I feel so satisfied. But I do feel satisfied. I would willingly re-read it, too!
The story follows Gabriel, Lord Sherington, who believes only in accumulating power. He considers love a weakness and a tool people use to try and get things out of him. He wishes to cut his cousin out of the succession but fears a wife will try and change him. So when he meets a drab spinster who says she serves her family like the poor relation she is because she loves them, he decides she will make the perfect wife. Clearly, love makes her blindly obedient. The lord then tries to make her fall in love with him, etc. etc. Foreseeable consequences ensue.
I like that this book focuses firmly on the characters and not on any dramatic plots. No kidnappings, elopements, or assassination attempts needed. The plot centers entirely on Gabriel's character change. And he goes through a lot of it. Poor Gabriel gets a ton of emotional baggage and the plot primarily centers on unpacking it all. A parent who hated him, sea captains who flogged him, servants that betray him, you name it. He got it.
While his tumultuous past did come across heavy handed at times, his overall character change worked. I never found it unbelievable. It drives the plot along quite well.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of his love interest, Verity. I have seen grass with more personality than Verity Jolliffe. She immediately falls in love with Gabriel and her entire existence thereafter centers on him. All she thinks about is how she would happily become his mistress; she would do anything to stay by his side; she thinks about him as she eats, sleeps, breathes! She treasures every second in his presence so that later, when he tires of her, she can bring them out and remember the happy moments.
Enough to make you gag, huh?
The girl had no personality outside of Gabriel. The plot tries to imply that under her wilting and deferential exterior lies a woman of strength. But we never see it. When she does show gumption, she immediately credits it to Gabriel. I never understood why anything about her seriously attracted Gabriel beyond his initial desire to find a dutiful wife. Particularly bizarre is how he goes from "it is great she is so plain because then she can't take a lover" to "she's the most beautiful woman I've ever beheld!" I didn't think love literally made you blind. Just stupid.
Overall, I found the book endearing. The historical accuracy is horridly off and the characters behave in the magnanimous, modern fashion that I found so frustrating in Three Lords for Lady Anne. But truly, what brought this book down in my estimation was Verity. She needed a personality outside of Gideon!
My semi-recent re-read of Three Lords for Lady Anne reminded me that I enjoy the writings of Charlotte Louise Dolan. So I decided to give her another try.
I conclude that I still enjoy her writing style. At least, I must, because Fallen Angel has little else going for it and almost nothing to explain why I feel so satisfied. But I do feel satisfied. I would willingly re-read it, too!
The story follows Gabriel, Lord Sherington, who believes only in accumulating power. He considers love a weakness and a tool people use to try and get things out of him. He wishes to cut his cousin out of the succession but fears a wife will try and change him. So when he meets a drab spinster who says she serves her family like the poor relation she is because she loves them, he decides she will make the perfect wife. Clearly, love makes her blindly obedient. The lord then tries to make her fall in love with him, etc. etc. Foreseeable consequences ensue.
I like that this book focuses firmly on the characters and not on any dramatic plots. No kidnappings, elopements, or assassination attempts needed. The plot centers entirely on Gabriel's character change. And he goes through a lot of it. Poor Gabriel gets a ton of emotional baggage and the plot primarily centers on unpacking it all. A parent who hated him, sea captains who flogged him, servants that betray him, you name it. He got it.
While his tumultuous past did come across heavy handed at times, his overall character change worked. I never found it unbelievable. It drives the plot along quite well.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of his love interest, Verity. I have seen grass with more personality than Verity Jolliffe. She immediately falls in love with Gabriel and her entire existence thereafter centers on him. All she thinks about is how she would happily become his mistress; she would do anything to stay by his side; she thinks about him as she eats, sleeps, breathes! She treasures every second in his presence so that later, when he tires of her, she can bring them out and remember the happy moments.
Enough to make you gag, huh?
The girl had no personality outside of Gabriel. The plot tries to imply that under her wilting and deferential exterior lies a woman of strength. But we never see it. When she does show gumption, she immediately credits it to Gabriel. I never understood why anything about her seriously attracted Gabriel beyond his initial desire to find a dutiful wife. Particularly bizarre is how he goes from "it is great she is so plain because then she can't take a lover" to "she's the most beautiful woman I've ever beheld!" I didn't think love literally made you blind. Just stupid.
Overall, I found the book endearing. The historical accuracy is horridly off and the characters behave in the magnanimous, modern fashion that I found so frustrating in Three Lords for Lady Anne. But truly, what brought this book down in my estimation was Verity. She needed a personality outside of Gideon!
November 3, 2013
An arrogant, cynical, and laughably grumpy hero who finds his vision of life overturned by unconditional love. An oldie, but mesmerizing traditional regency. Love it!
to-read-stand-alone
November 22, 2019Azet rated it it was amazing.... saving this for Christmas week. going on a recommendation
September 6, 2023
Traditional Regency. Kisses and later off-screen
amorousness. Gave these 4 stars. This kept my interest.
Verity was stranded on Christmas Eve. The coaching
inn had no horses or conveyance to offer. They'd had a
barn fire-no horses were seriously injured. Along came a
mister, who was actually an earl, Gabriel who she asked
for a ride. He was rude & sarcastic. And saw her as too
plain and thin. He distrusted women. But he gave her a
ride. (His rude aunty had referred to him as a 'fallen
angel.') He decided to meet her birth family who were
indifferent to her. Instead of being relieved she was OK,
they complained she did not help prep for the holiday.
They agreed he'd travel w/ her again on Jan 9th for
the return trip.
Verity was an "unpaid drudge" to older, irritating sis,
married to a baron in London. Gabe decided Verity was
unlike most women, so he courted her, sort of. Sis
& spouse acted toad-eaters around Gabe. Sis wanted
Gabe for her daughter. Verity rose above family insults.
Gabe was a wealthy import/ export businessman. People
called him "ruthless." We learned of his past in the
merchant marines. The MCs genuinely grew to care for
each other. They dealt with high-strung fam. members on
both sides. Verity learned some assertiveness. Gabe showed
himself to be better man than he let on IE he gave a 2nd
chance to new servants. Gabe met an older someone who
gave his life new meaning.
amorousness. Gave these 4 stars. This kept my interest.
Verity was stranded on Christmas Eve. The coaching
inn had no horses or conveyance to offer. They'd had a
barn fire-no horses were seriously injured. Along came a
mister, who was actually an earl, Gabriel who she asked
for a ride. He was rude & sarcastic. And saw her as too
plain and thin. He distrusted women. But he gave her a
ride. (His rude aunty had referred to him as a 'fallen
angel.') He decided to meet her birth family who were
indifferent to her. Instead of being relieved she was OK,
they complained she did not help prep for the holiday.
They agreed he'd travel w/ her again on Jan 9th for
the return trip.
Verity was an "unpaid drudge" to older, irritating sis,
married to a baron in London. Gabe decided Verity was
unlike most women, so he courted her, sort of. Sis
& spouse acted toad-eaters around Gabe. Sis wanted
Gabe for her daughter. Verity rose above family insults.
Gabe was a wealthy import/ export businessman. People
called him "ruthless." We learned of his past in the
merchant marines. The MCs genuinely grew to care for
each other. They dealt with high-strung fam. members on
both sides. Verity learned some assertiveness. Gabe showed
himself to be better man than he let on IE he gave a 2nd
chance to new servants. Gabe met an older someone who
gave his life new meaning.
November 18, 2018
3.5 stars
I think, the more suited title should be 'The Courting of Miss Jollife'.
I think, the more suited title should be 'The Courting of Miss Jollife'.
January 24, 2023
I have to say that it surprised me how much I loved this book. The recommendations I get from Goodreads are really hit-and-miss, but I took the leap with this one and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I don't think the synopsis really does the story justice. It's about two people from very broken backgrounds, who have taken different approaches to their hardships. The hero is bitter and jaded because he has mostly seen nothing but cruelty in his life (especially from his family) and is convinced that humanity (and especially women) are conniving, greedy, and manipulative. Even though he's jaded, he still maintains a decency in his heart; he's a good person, just super grumpy on the surface. The heroine has a family that has emotionally abused and used her for years, yet she views the world through very optimistic and sunny eyes. She's almost too perfect in her selflessness.
This book does a really good job of present the insecurities that come from both sides while falling in love. Though the hero is super confident and alpha male, she turns him more and more into an insecure wreck, which is really sweet to watch. She isn't a mess, but simply knows she's too unattractive, unconnected, and poor to attract such an impressive man. Watching them fall in love is wonderful (and the story does it without getting melodramatic or resorting to ridiculous plot twists).
My only complaint is that the heroine seems almost too perfect. The author does give her faults and weaknesses, which keeps her from being a one-dimensional saint, but I wish there had been more to her character. There were times I found myself wondering why she was falling in love with the hero because though we see into his head and see the true motivations behind his actions, she doesn't. From her perspective (and she even points this out at one point), he's rude, bossy, and a short-tempered. It didn't bother me enough to ruin the story for me (after all, someone so starved for love and affection would fall easily for someone who showed her even an inkling of it), but I think the author could have laid the foundation of their relationship a little bit better.
That being said, I keep wanting to read it over and over, so it's pretty fantastic.
I don't think the synopsis really does the story justice. It's about two people from very broken backgrounds, who have taken different approaches to their hardships. The hero is bitter and jaded because he has mostly seen nothing but cruelty in his life (especially from his family) and is convinced that humanity (and especially women) are conniving, greedy, and manipulative. Even though he's jaded, he still maintains a decency in his heart; he's a good person, just super grumpy on the surface. The heroine has a family that has emotionally abused and used her for years, yet she views the world through very optimistic and sunny eyes. She's almost too perfect in her selflessness.
This book does a really good job of present the insecurities that come from both sides while falling in love. Though the hero is super confident and alpha male, she turns him more and more into an insecure wreck, which is really sweet to watch. She isn't a mess, but simply knows she's too unattractive, unconnected, and poor to attract such an impressive man. Watching them fall in love is wonderful (and the story does it without getting melodramatic or resorting to ridiculous plot twists).
My only complaint is that the heroine seems almost too perfect. The author does give her faults and weaknesses, which keeps her from being a one-dimensional saint, but I wish there had been more to her character. There were times I found myself wondering why she was falling in love with the hero because though we see into his head and see the true motivations behind his actions, she doesn't. From her perspective (and she even points this out at one point), he's rude, bossy, and a short-tempered. It didn't bother me enough to ruin the story for me (after all, someone so starved for love and affection would fall easily for someone who showed her even an inkling of it), but I think the author could have laid the foundation of their relationship a little bit better.
That being said, I keep wanting to read it over and over, so it's pretty fantastic.
May 24, 2019
I do like a plain spinster, even if Verity is a bit of a doormat. This has all the high drama of old school romance - the heroine immediately falls head over heels in love with the hero and everyone’s feelings seem abrupt and overblown. I would have preferred there be some angst and insecurity on her part, but she was just serene and Mary Sue-ish. The hero’s gradual transformation was more interesting than I anticipated. Not really sure why he hates women so much though.
September 4, 2013
A solid 5 star without a hesitation.
What a little gem of a book. It was so unexpected and I highly appreciated the chance to read a book that satisfied me completely. The writing was flawless. The characters were engaging and very well developed. What set this book a part for me was the communications between the lead characters.
What a little gem of a book. It was so unexpected and I highly appreciated the chance to read a book that satisfied me completely. The writing was flawless. The characters were engaging and very well developed. What set this book a part for me was the communications between the lead characters.
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