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Matches Made in Scandal #2
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife
Every woman wants to marry him…
But what if he's already taken?
In this Matches Made in Scandal story Jean-Luc Bauduin, Parisian society’s most eligible bachelor, is determined only to take a wife of his choosing. And until that day comes he’ll ward off his admirers by hiring Lady Sophia Acton to wear his ring! The passion Jean-Luc shares with his convenient bride is enormously satisfying—until he discovers Sophia’s utterly scandalous past!
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2018
9 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Marguerite Kaye
247 books343 followersMarguerite Kaye is a prolific historical romance author hailing from Argyll’s West Coast. She is a voracious consumer of books, Scotland’s world-class larder, and the occasional cocktail.
Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 6, 2022
Paris 1818
Lady Sophia is hired to pretend to be Jesu-Luc wife. She has secret’s, he is not who he thinks he is. Both are likeable characters . Nice story
Lady Sophia is hired to pretend to be Jesu-Luc wife. She has secret’s, he is not who he thinks he is. Both are likeable characters . Nice story
April 6, 2018
4.5 stars
The four books in Marguerite Kaye’s new series, Matches Made in Scandal, are set in some of the world’s most exciting cities – St. Petersburg, Paris, Venice and London – and are all linked by a mysterious woman known only as The Procurer who specialises in helping young women whom life has dealt a poor hand and offering them a chance to rebuild their lives and make themselves a better future. In From Courtesan to Convenient Wife, The Procurer extends that offer to Lady Sophia Acton, a well-bred young lady whose fall from grace has been spectacular and who is now on the verge of penury.
The Procurer’s client is a successful and extremely wealthy Parisian wine merchant named Jean-Luc Bauduin, who needs to find himself a wife very quickly. Or rather, he needs to find himself a woman to pretend to be his wife for as long as it takes for him to prove to the young lady who insists he is contracted to marry her that he is not the man she thinks he is and therefore, not subject to the contract she says was drawn up by their fathers when they were both children. It’s an unusual situation, but in taking the job, Sophia will earn enough money to be able to leave London, where her reputation is in shreds, and make a new life for herself elsewhere.
When Mademoiselle Juliette de Cressy presented herself as his contracted bride, Jean-Luc was convinced she was some sort of con-artist. Insisting he is the rightful Duc de Montendre, who was hidden away as an infant to preserve him from the ravages of the Revolution, she even showed him a copy of the contract, signed by her recently deceased father, the Comte de Cressy, and the late Duc de Montendre. But Jean-Luc isn’t the son of a duke – he was born in Cognac and is the only child of Monsieur and Madame Bauduin, although unfortunately, he has no documentation or living relatives who can attest to his identity. He soon comes to accept that Juliette isn’t trying to con him – she genuinely believes him to be the Duc de Montendre - and he decides that the only way to get her to realise she is mistaken is to show her that he’s already married, which will also buy him some time to gather the evidence to refute her claim. Which is where Sophia comes in.
Sophia settles into her role as Madame Bauduin quickly, and is even more convincing than Jean-Luc could have hoped for. Part of the deal is that Sophia is under no obligation to tell him anything about herself, and he scrupulously refrains from asking questions he longs to ask; she is clearly not an actress, and equally clearly has been brought up as a lady – which makes her acceptance of his commission even more puzzling. But as the days pass and she fits herself almost seamlessly into his life, Jean-Luc finds it harder and harder to remember that their marriage is a sham and begins to dream of a life spent with Sophia at his side, his wife in truth.
Their romance develops quickly, but the couple has such fabulous chemistry that it’s easy to buy into their growing feelings for one another. They are simply adorable together; their interactions are funny, sweet, tender and sensual by turns, and I loved the way they are so easily able to joke together about the ridiculousness of their situation, even as they are playing the besotted newly-weds for the benefit of those around them.
Sophia is surprised at the strength of her attraction to Jean-Luc, given that her experience with men has given her a deep distrust of them and their motives. Although born into the nobility, her life has not been easy; her father thought girls were worthless and did not provide well for Sophia and her sister, who was chronically ill, even refusing to pay for Felicity to travel to a climate more suitable for her health. Love of her sister set Sophia on a path no well-bred young lady should have been forced to follow and she became the mistress of an unpleasant, manipulative man who, when Sophia ended their arrangement after her sister’s death, made his liaison with Sophia known and dragged her name through the mud.
It doesn’t take long for Sophia to realise that Jean-Luc is decent and honourable, and the more time she spends with him, the stronger her feelings for him become. She knows he cares for her, too, but her intention was always to use the money she would earn from this commission to live alone and independently… but that isn’t such an attractive prospect now that she has fallen deeply in love. Yet she can see no alternative. The truth of her scandalous past is sure to repulse Jean-Luc and she can’t bear the thought of living with the disapprobation and disgust she is sure will develop over time. Jean-Luc sees clearly that Sophia has put others before herself and her own happiness at every opportunity, while she believes herself to be tainted by her actions. Her perception of her unworthiness is the principal source of conflict in the romance; Sophia is effectively imprisoned by her past, and has to learn to, as Jean-Luc says, lay the ghosts to rest and look to the future.
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a gorgeously romantic and truly delightful read in which the sexual tension between Jean-Luc and Sophia crackles right from the start. Jean-Luc is a wonderful hero – he’s a refreshing change in a genre full of arrogant dukes and marriage-shy bachelors; he’s handsome and charming (of course!) but he’s also highly intuitive, very sure of himself and his place in the world, and has worked very hard to become the successful and wealthy businessman he now is. He oozes confidence – not arrogance – which makes it all the more affecting when he begins to doubt everything he thought he knew about himself in the face of Juliette’s insistence that he’s not plain Monsieur Bauduin, but the rightful Duc de Montendre. Sophia is the sort of heroine it’s easy to root for; life has dealt her a crappy hand, but it’s not broken her and she refuses to be cowed. She’s quick-witted, intelligent and beautiful and it’s easy to understand why Jean-Luc is so completely bowled over by her.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the Parisian setting, and am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the Matches Made in Scandal series.
The four books in Marguerite Kaye’s new series, Matches Made in Scandal, are set in some of the world’s most exciting cities – St. Petersburg, Paris, Venice and London – and are all linked by a mysterious woman known only as The Procurer who specialises in helping young women whom life has dealt a poor hand and offering them a chance to rebuild their lives and make themselves a better future. In From Courtesan to Convenient Wife, The Procurer extends that offer to Lady Sophia Acton, a well-bred young lady whose fall from grace has been spectacular and who is now on the verge of penury.
The Procurer’s client is a successful and extremely wealthy Parisian wine merchant named Jean-Luc Bauduin, who needs to find himself a wife very quickly. Or rather, he needs to find himself a woman to pretend to be his wife for as long as it takes for him to prove to the young lady who insists he is contracted to marry her that he is not the man she thinks he is and therefore, not subject to the contract she says was drawn up by their fathers when they were both children. It’s an unusual situation, but in taking the job, Sophia will earn enough money to be able to leave London, where her reputation is in shreds, and make a new life for herself elsewhere.
When Mademoiselle Juliette de Cressy presented herself as his contracted bride, Jean-Luc was convinced she was some sort of con-artist. Insisting he is the rightful Duc de Montendre, who was hidden away as an infant to preserve him from the ravages of the Revolution, she even showed him a copy of the contract, signed by her recently deceased father, the Comte de Cressy, and the late Duc de Montendre. But Jean-Luc isn’t the son of a duke – he was born in Cognac and is the only child of Monsieur and Madame Bauduin, although unfortunately, he has no documentation or living relatives who can attest to his identity. He soon comes to accept that Juliette isn’t trying to con him – she genuinely believes him to be the Duc de Montendre - and he decides that the only way to get her to realise she is mistaken is to show her that he’s already married, which will also buy him some time to gather the evidence to refute her claim. Which is where Sophia comes in.
Sophia settles into her role as Madame Bauduin quickly, and is even more convincing than Jean-Luc could have hoped for. Part of the deal is that Sophia is under no obligation to tell him anything about herself, and he scrupulously refrains from asking questions he longs to ask; she is clearly not an actress, and equally clearly has been brought up as a lady – which makes her acceptance of his commission even more puzzling. But as the days pass and she fits herself almost seamlessly into his life, Jean-Luc finds it harder and harder to remember that their marriage is a sham and begins to dream of a life spent with Sophia at his side, his wife in truth.
Their romance develops quickly, but the couple has such fabulous chemistry that it’s easy to buy into their growing feelings for one another. They are simply adorable together; their interactions are funny, sweet, tender and sensual by turns, and I loved the way they are so easily able to joke together about the ridiculousness of their situation, even as they are playing the besotted newly-weds for the benefit of those around them.
Sophia is surprised at the strength of her attraction to Jean-Luc, given that her experience with men has given her a deep distrust of them and their motives. Although born into the nobility, her life has not been easy; her father thought girls were worthless and did not provide well for Sophia and her sister, who was chronically ill, even refusing to pay for Felicity to travel to a climate more suitable for her health. Love of her sister set Sophia on a path no well-bred young lady should have been forced to follow and she became the mistress of an unpleasant, manipulative man who, when Sophia ended their arrangement after her sister’s death, made his liaison with Sophia known and dragged her name through the mud.
It doesn’t take long for Sophia to realise that Jean-Luc is decent and honourable, and the more time she spends with him, the stronger her feelings for him become. She knows he cares for her, too, but her intention was always to use the money she would earn from this commission to live alone and independently… but that isn’t such an attractive prospect now that she has fallen deeply in love. Yet she can see no alternative. The truth of her scandalous past is sure to repulse Jean-Luc and she can’t bear the thought of living with the disapprobation and disgust she is sure will develop over time. Jean-Luc sees clearly that Sophia has put others before herself and her own happiness at every opportunity, while she believes herself to be tainted by her actions. Her perception of her unworthiness is the principal source of conflict in the romance; Sophia is effectively imprisoned by her past, and has to learn to, as Jean-Luc says, lay the ghosts to rest and look to the future.
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a gorgeously romantic and truly delightful read in which the sexual tension between Jean-Luc and Sophia crackles right from the start. Jean-Luc is a wonderful hero – he’s a refreshing change in a genre full of arrogant dukes and marriage-shy bachelors; he’s handsome and charming (of course!) but he’s also highly intuitive, very sure of himself and his place in the world, and has worked very hard to become the successful and wealthy businessman he now is. He oozes confidence – not arrogance – which makes it all the more affecting when he begins to doubt everything he thought he knew about himself in the face of Juliette’s insistence that he’s not plain Monsieur Bauduin, but the rightful Duc de Montendre. Sophia is the sort of heroine it’s easy to root for; life has dealt her a crappy hand, but it’s not broken her and she refuses to be cowed. She’s quick-witted, intelligent and beautiful and it’s easy to understand why Jean-Luc is so completely bowled over by her.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the Parisian setting, and am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the Matches Made in Scandal series.
March 22, 2018
From Courtesan to Convenient Bride is book two in the Matches Made in Scandal series, book one; Governess to Countess was an enlightening start to what I thought then was going to be a great series, and I am so pleased that I was right in my initial assumption was right, because this one is marvellous. As ever the story opens with The Procurer – who really is one of the most intriguing character’s that I have come across – recruiting the person, her client wants for a mysterious job. Then we are whisked away to beautiful Paris, which all on its entices you and takes you on a wonderous romantic journey.
Sophia has been through such a lot, she has been hurt and used in ways that no women should. In a way she is damaged and Jean-Luc see’s that vulnerable side as soon as he meets her. Due to something that happened in her family she was forced to become a mistress to a horrible and manipulative man, a man who didn’t like it when at the end of their agreement she walked away. Because of this liaison she has got scandal following her where ever she goes, which is why she has had to move about a lot and now why she is so reluctant to trust and so unwilling – or maybe unable – to allow anyone to get close to her. She also has a tenacious spirit, which has got her through all the tough times and let her keep her sparkle which she hides, but jean-Luc see’s what she is trying to hide from the world. I really like it when she is being bright and lovely herself and not acting, jean-Luc always points it out to her and makes her aware of just what a wonderful woman she is. He is very supportive and encouraging, even when he finds out her darkest secret.
Jean-Luc is a seductive, charismatic and thoroughly enchanting man who oozes Gaelic confidence and charm. With just the nearest glance he can make any woman weak at the knees, but what I really like about him is that he has worked hard to get where he is, he hasn’t had life given to him on a silver platter he has had to work hard and learn, which he did. He has toiled and slogged it out to become the most respected wine merchant in the country and that is something that really makes me respect him. He is very family orientated he loves his parent’s very much, so when the reason for his sudden need to have a wife in his life appears at his front door, one of his first thoughts is, his parent’s and that is such a lovely thing. Jean-Luc has an amazingly kind and generous heart which he shows Sophia again and again and it is his gentleness with her that really make’s Sophia see what we all know him to be; A good man!
I am really enjoying this series, I love how they are connected with the Procurer, who really is a fascinating creature. When the story open’s you get a glimpse of the Procurer, she is a mystery, an enigma I want to know her story and what drove her to be what she is. I know that Ms Kaye said that the Procurer will have her own story, and I am really looking forward to that one.
A wonderful story which I highly recommend.
Sophia has been through such a lot, she has been hurt and used in ways that no women should. In a way she is damaged and Jean-Luc see’s that vulnerable side as soon as he meets her. Due to something that happened in her family she was forced to become a mistress to a horrible and manipulative man, a man who didn’t like it when at the end of their agreement she walked away. Because of this liaison she has got scandal following her where ever she goes, which is why she has had to move about a lot and now why she is so reluctant to trust and so unwilling – or maybe unable – to allow anyone to get close to her. She also has a tenacious spirit, which has got her through all the tough times and let her keep her sparkle which she hides, but jean-Luc see’s what she is trying to hide from the world. I really like it when she is being bright and lovely herself and not acting, jean-Luc always points it out to her and makes her aware of just what a wonderful woman she is. He is very supportive and encouraging, even when he finds out her darkest secret.
Jean-Luc is a seductive, charismatic and thoroughly enchanting man who oozes Gaelic confidence and charm. With just the nearest glance he can make any woman weak at the knees, but what I really like about him is that he has worked hard to get where he is, he hasn’t had life given to him on a silver platter he has had to work hard and learn, which he did. He has toiled and slogged it out to become the most respected wine merchant in the country and that is something that really makes me respect him. He is very family orientated he loves his parent’s very much, so when the reason for his sudden need to have a wife in his life appears at his front door, one of his first thoughts is, his parent’s and that is such a lovely thing. Jean-Luc has an amazingly kind and generous heart which he shows Sophia again and again and it is his gentleness with her that really make’s Sophia see what we all know him to be; A good man!
I am really enjoying this series, I love how they are connected with the Procurer, who really is a fascinating creature. When the story open’s you get a glimpse of the Procurer, she is a mystery, an enigma I want to know her story and what drove her to be what she is. I know that Ms Kaye said that the Procurer will have her own story, and I am really looking forward to that one.
A wonderful story which I highly recommend.
December 12, 2023
I like HistRoms but we are, let's admit it, scraping the bottom of the barrel for original plots.
I have no idea what period the purple monstrosity on the cover is meant to be from. I suspect it was found at the bottom of a barrel.
I have no idea what period the purple monstrosity on the cover is meant to be from. I suspect it was found at the bottom of a barrel.
June 7, 2018
Good book. Sophia has had to make difficult choices in her past, choices that have left her reputation in ruins. All she wants now is the chance to start a new life. She is offered that chance by a woman known as The Procurer, who helps women such as herself rebuild their lives. All she needs to do is travel to France and play the part of loving bride for a French wine merchant.
Jean-Luc is young, handsome, and very wealthy. He has recently been approached by a woman who claims that he is the missing heir to a dukedom and the man her parents betrothed her to when they were children. He needs a fake wife to protect him until he can investigate the claim.
There was a connection between Jean-Luc and Sophia from the moment they met, as well as a spark of attraction. I loved how easily they both slid into the role of a happily married couple. It wasn't long before each of them found themselves forgetting that the marriage wasn't real. But Sophia's past still haunts her. The things that she had to do still cause her deep shame, and she fears what Jean-Luc's reaction would be if he knew. Jean-Luc senses that there is something that isn't right with Sophia. He doesn't push for answers to his questions, sensing that it will take time for her to trust him.
I liked both Sophia and Jean-Luc. Sophia is a stronger woman than she thinks she is. She came through her ordeal with her pride intact, though not her ability to trust. My respect for her grew as each piece of her past was revealed. I also liked the way that she insisted on helping Jean-Luc unravel the mystery of his past. Jean-Luc is an amazing man. He grew his business from almost nothing to being one of the best in the country. He is kind, and honorable in his treatment of both Sophia and Juliette.
I loved the development of the relationship between Jean-Luc and Sophia. They spend the time together to convince the public of their marriage and quickly discover that they like each other. There are some marvelous scenes of them together, as Jean-Luc shows Sophia around his beloved Paris. I also loved Sophia's support of him as they delved into the mystery of his past. As the attraction between them heated up, Sophia had to deal with the memories that would come between them. I loved Jean-Luc's patience as he waited for her to be ready. I ached for Sophia when her past made an unexpected appearance. Her pain and shame as she confessed all to Jean-Luc were heartbreaking. I loved Jean-Luc's reaction and how it showed just how well he knew her and the depth of his love for her.
The mystery of Jean-Luc's background was very well done. It's obvious from the start how it is going to turn out, but the journey there was terrific. With the unusual setting of post-Revolution France, there were many twists and turns before the truth was uncovered. The epilogue was good and wrapped up some loose ends.
Jean-Luc is young, handsome, and very wealthy. He has recently been approached by a woman who claims that he is the missing heir to a dukedom and the man her parents betrothed her to when they were children. He needs a fake wife to protect him until he can investigate the claim.
There was a connection between Jean-Luc and Sophia from the moment they met, as well as a spark of attraction. I loved how easily they both slid into the role of a happily married couple. It wasn't long before each of them found themselves forgetting that the marriage wasn't real. But Sophia's past still haunts her. The things that she had to do still cause her deep shame, and she fears what Jean-Luc's reaction would be if he knew. Jean-Luc senses that there is something that isn't right with Sophia. He doesn't push for answers to his questions, sensing that it will take time for her to trust him.
I liked both Sophia and Jean-Luc. Sophia is a stronger woman than she thinks she is. She came through her ordeal with her pride intact, though not her ability to trust. My respect for her grew as each piece of her past was revealed. I also liked the way that she insisted on helping Jean-Luc unravel the mystery of his past. Jean-Luc is an amazing man. He grew his business from almost nothing to being one of the best in the country. He is kind, and honorable in his treatment of both Sophia and Juliette.
I loved the development of the relationship between Jean-Luc and Sophia. They spend the time together to convince the public of their marriage and quickly discover that they like each other. There are some marvelous scenes of them together, as Jean-Luc shows Sophia around his beloved Paris. I also loved Sophia's support of him as they delved into the mystery of his past. As the attraction between them heated up, Sophia had to deal with the memories that would come between them. I loved Jean-Luc's patience as he waited for her to be ready. I ached for Sophia when her past made an unexpected appearance. Her pain and shame as she confessed all to Jean-Luc were heartbreaking. I loved Jean-Luc's reaction and how it showed just how well he knew her and the depth of his love for her.
The mystery of Jean-Luc's background was very well done. It's obvious from the start how it is going to turn out, but the journey there was terrific. With the unusual setting of post-Revolution France, there were many twists and turns before the truth was uncovered. The epilogue was good and wrapped up some loose ends.
April 17, 2018
Naughtiness 3. 5*
Fantastic book, most definitely adore this book as much as if not more than its sister, though it truly could be read as a stand alone, I honestly think reading it aș a series is a much more enchanting.
As always I will not give spoilers but I will say is that this beautiful book was truly a pleasure to read, Marguerite as always most definitely did not disappoint, this book has everything you need in a HEA, forbidden love, romance, a hero worthy of adoration and a truly amazing heroine.
Thank you Margeurite for writing this awesome book and the honour of reading it ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Fantastic book, most definitely adore this book as much as if not more than its sister, though it truly could be read as a stand alone, I honestly think reading it aș a series is a much more enchanting.
As always I will not give spoilers but I will say is that this beautiful book was truly a pleasure to read, Marguerite as always most definitely did not disappoint, this book has everything you need in a HEA, forbidden love, romance, a hero worthy of adoration and a truly amazing heroine.
Thank you Margeurite for writing this awesome book and the honour of reading it ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
March 12, 2018
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is the second book in the Matches Made in Scandal series by Marguerite Kaye. Although part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone story.
The Procuress is a woman determined to help women who have for whatever reason fallen from grace in the eyes of London's Society. In doing so she also helps particular gentlemen who need a woman to help them in various circumstances. Nothing untoward mind you.
Lady Sophia Acton is the woman the Procuress decides to help. Assured that none of her past will be disclosed to the man she would be helping, and knowing that the money she will make will set her up in a home in the country, Sophia readily agrees to take on the task. She is to pretend, in public at least, to be married to a man determined not to get leg-shackled by another woman who believes she is betrothed by contract to marry him.
Jean-Luc Bauduin is that man, he is also one of the most sought-after men in Paris where this story takes place. He is absurdly wealthy and just as good looking. He needs Sophia to pretend to be his wife until he can look into the claims of the woman who claims she has a contract signed by their fathers that they are to marry. The main problem is that she believes him to be a nobleman, somebody that isn't him! He needs to prove without the shadow of a doubt that he isn't the man she believes him to be.
Sophia helps to keep the woman away by pretending to be Jean-Luc's wife, but she also wants to help him look into the mystery of why this other woman claims to be betrothed to him.
The story that unfolds is an exciting one, not only with regards to the romance developing between Sophia and Jean-Luc and the obstacles that could come between them, not least his supposed betrothal contract, but also watching Jean-Luc come to terms with things that he learns along the way. Things about both himself and also about Sophia.
I was hooked on the intrigue of this story from the very first chapter, and I loved every minute of it. Marguerite Kaye has an amazing knack for painting a picture with her words, so it's all too easy to visualise the beautiful places in France that Jean-Luc and Sophia visit. I loved to picture the clothes worn in that era too, so easily achieved thanks to the author's descriptions.
This was a beautiful story with a wonderful ending and I happily recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
5 Stars
The Procuress is a woman determined to help women who have for whatever reason fallen from grace in the eyes of London's Society. In doing so she also helps particular gentlemen who need a woman to help them in various circumstances. Nothing untoward mind you.
Lady Sophia Acton is the woman the Procuress decides to help. Assured that none of her past will be disclosed to the man she would be helping, and knowing that the money she will make will set her up in a home in the country, Sophia readily agrees to take on the task. She is to pretend, in public at least, to be married to a man determined not to get leg-shackled by another woman who believes she is betrothed by contract to marry him.
Jean-Luc Bauduin is that man, he is also one of the most sought-after men in Paris where this story takes place. He is absurdly wealthy and just as good looking. He needs Sophia to pretend to be his wife until he can look into the claims of the woman who claims she has a contract signed by their fathers that they are to marry. The main problem is that she believes him to be a nobleman, somebody that isn't him! He needs to prove without the shadow of a doubt that he isn't the man she believes him to be.
Sophia helps to keep the woman away by pretending to be Jean-Luc's wife, but she also wants to help him look into the mystery of why this other woman claims to be betrothed to him.
The story that unfolds is an exciting one, not only with regards to the romance developing between Sophia and Jean-Luc and the obstacles that could come between them, not least his supposed betrothal contract, but also watching Jean-Luc come to terms with things that he learns along the way. Things about both himself and also about Sophia.
I was hooked on the intrigue of this story from the very first chapter, and I loved every minute of it. Marguerite Kaye has an amazing knack for painting a picture with her words, so it's all too easy to visualise the beautiful places in France that Jean-Luc and Sophia visit. I loved to picture the clothes worn in that era too, so easily achieved thanks to the author's descriptions.
This was a beautiful story with a wonderful ending and I happily recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
5 Stars
May 18, 2018
The Procurer has an offer for Sophia that she can't refuse. In exchange for her independence she will have to travel to France to help Jean-Luc, a rich Parisian business man. A woman has shown up with a contract that could change his future forever. He doesn't want to marry someone he doesn't love and hasn't chosen as his bride and therefore he immediately needs someone who pretends to be his wife. Will Sophia be everything he's asked for?
Sophia isn't used to being showered with attention. She had to make many sacrifices for her loved ones and doesn't trust men. Jean-Luc proves to be kind though. He makes sure she has all the dresses she needs and when he finds out she likes gourmet food he goes all out to let her taste buds explode. Their relationship doesn't feel fake at all, but Sophia isn't actually Jean-Luc's wife and there's something he doesn't know about her. Will he send Sophia away when he finds out about her past?
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a delightful romantic story. Before she arrived at Jean-Luc's home Sophia's life was hard. She's heartbroken, but determined to make something of her future. Her assignment can give her the freedom she longs to have, but first she has to help Jean-Luc to solve his problem. He doesn't want to marry someone because of a contract. Together Sophia and Jean-Luc start digging into his past and they uncover all kinds of fabulous fascinating secrets. The revelations kept me glued to the pages and I couldn't put the book down until I knew every single detail.
Marguerite Kaye has a great captivating writing style. I was immediately intrigued by Jean-Luc and his gentle manners. He has a beautiful home and is actively trying to help rebuilding France after a terrible time. I liked this bit of history in the story in combination with the chivalry of the man. I know Paris well and Marguerite Kaye makes it come to life in a fantastic way. I loved her vivid descriptions that took me to another time and place and didn't let me go before I finished the book. From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a fabulous mesmerizing story.
Sophia isn't used to being showered with attention. She had to make many sacrifices for her loved ones and doesn't trust men. Jean-Luc proves to be kind though. He makes sure she has all the dresses she needs and when he finds out she likes gourmet food he goes all out to let her taste buds explode. Their relationship doesn't feel fake at all, but Sophia isn't actually Jean-Luc's wife and there's something he doesn't know about her. Will he send Sophia away when he finds out about her past?
From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a delightful romantic story. Before she arrived at Jean-Luc's home Sophia's life was hard. She's heartbroken, but determined to make something of her future. Her assignment can give her the freedom she longs to have, but first she has to help Jean-Luc to solve his problem. He doesn't want to marry someone because of a contract. Together Sophia and Jean-Luc start digging into his past and they uncover all kinds of fabulous fascinating secrets. The revelations kept me glued to the pages and I couldn't put the book down until I knew every single detail.
Marguerite Kaye has a great captivating writing style. I was immediately intrigued by Jean-Luc and his gentle manners. He has a beautiful home and is actively trying to help rebuilding France after a terrible time. I liked this bit of history in the story in combination with the chivalry of the man. I know Paris well and Marguerite Kaye makes it come to life in a fantastic way. I loved her vivid descriptions that took me to another time and place and didn't let me go before I finished the book. From Courtesan to Convenient Wife is a fabulous mesmerizing story.
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December 26, 2023Accepting a contract from the Procuror is the h' s way of escaping her penniless state. Acting as the H's wife to discourage the claim of a marriage contract while keeping her background secret from the H becomes a heavy burden for the h. Together they try to determine the truth about the H's family. Is he the long lost duke?
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March 5, 2018Miniseries: Matches Made in Scandal
March 21, 2019
Wow! It took one book for Marguerite Kaye to jump onto my auto-read list. Her work has always garnered stunning reviews and I was curious to try one for myself, and it did not disappoint. Her words flow so smoothly and effortlessly bring the setting to life. It's obvious the author has a love affair with Paris (and greater France), which is the setting of this novel. It was a refreshing change from Regency England, and nice to see "the other side," for once. Life in France after the Terrors was very different, indeed, and it seems like its a world apart here. An aristocrat would never lower himself and ply a trade in England (it would be unthinkable!), but its quite different in a France that lost most of its aristocracy to Madame Guillotine.
The Procurer is a mysterious entity who helps women who are down on their luck. Lady Sophia Acton is one such fallen woman, saddled with debts and a very sick sister, who lowers herself to what she see as great depths of depravity in order to get her sister the medical treatment she needs. She carries a lot of baggage because of her past deeds, but the opportunity the Procurer offers is too good to pass up: all she has to do is pretend to be the wife of Jean-Luc Bauduin, a wealthy and successful wine merchant in Paris who is trying to fend off unwanted advances from another woman. Sophia even gets to set the ground rules: he can't ask her questions about her past, and he can't touch her without her express permission.
Jean-Luc has been living his life the best way heknows how, until Juliette de Cressy suddenly arrives on his doorstep and claims that he is the long-lost heir to the Duc de Montendre and thus, the man she has been contracted to marry since birth. Jean-Luc wants no part of this, and tells her that he's already married, thus the need to suddenly produce a bride. Juliette holds her own, though, pressing her suit and forcing Jean-Luc to dig deep into his past and prove that he isn't who she says he is. She basically has no other choice, and when Sophia meets her, she sympathizes with Juliette's plight. She knows well the only alternative for a woman who was bred to marry an aristocrat and suddenly finds herself alone and destitute.
Jean-Luc and Sophia spent their time as faux-spouses searching for proof that he isn't the Duc de Montendre, and they grow close during this time. (Well, obviously, this is a romance.) Jean-Luc is an absolute dreamboat - poised, intelligent, confident, successful, secure, and oozing with an effortless sensuality that is absolutely enticing. He is thoughtful and patient and obviously feels his emotions to a great depth, and as he delves headfirst into solving this mystery, he begins to question everything he's ever known about himself and his origins.
It's probably obvious that I just adored Jean-Luc. I had a harder time with Sophia. I understood her reticence, but she took the teeth-gnashing and rending of garments to the next level and it dragged on way too long, way after it became obvious that Jean-Luc would not reject her out of hand if she disclosed her past to him. And, when the inevitable happens, he reacts exactly as I anticipated he would. He also basically told her to stop torturing herself, because the shame she carried was all in her head. (He was much nicer about it, of course, but it was a relief to basically see him tell her to get over it already.)
This book was exquisite and I can't wait to read the Procurer's tale, the final book in the quartet. The only thing holding this back from a 5 star review and a spot on my squee buttons shelf is Sophia.
The Procurer is a mysterious entity who helps women who are down on their luck. Lady Sophia Acton is one such fallen woman, saddled with debts and a very sick sister, who lowers herself to what she see as great depths of depravity in order to get her sister the medical treatment she needs. She carries a lot of baggage because of her past deeds, but the opportunity the Procurer offers is too good to pass up: all she has to do is pretend to be the wife of Jean-Luc Bauduin, a wealthy and successful wine merchant in Paris who is trying to fend off unwanted advances from another woman. Sophia even gets to set the ground rules: he can't ask her questions about her past, and he can't touch her without her express permission.
Jean-Luc has been living his life the best way heknows how, until Juliette de Cressy suddenly arrives on his doorstep and claims that he is the long-lost heir to the Duc de Montendre and thus, the man she has been contracted to marry since birth. Jean-Luc wants no part of this, and tells her that he's already married, thus the need to suddenly produce a bride. Juliette holds her own, though, pressing her suit and forcing Jean-Luc to dig deep into his past and prove that he isn't who she says he is. She basically has no other choice, and when Sophia meets her, she sympathizes with Juliette's plight. She knows well the only alternative for a woman who was bred to marry an aristocrat and suddenly finds herself alone and destitute.
Jean-Luc and Sophia spent their time as faux-spouses searching for proof that he isn't the Duc de Montendre, and they grow close during this time. (Well, obviously, this is a romance.) Jean-Luc is an absolute dreamboat - poised, intelligent, confident, successful, secure, and oozing with an effortless sensuality that is absolutely enticing. He is thoughtful and patient and obviously feels his emotions to a great depth, and as he delves headfirst into solving this mystery, he begins to question everything he's ever known about himself and his origins.
It's probably obvious that I just adored Jean-Luc. I had a harder time with Sophia. I understood her reticence, but she took the teeth-gnashing and rending of garments to the next level and it dragged on way too long, way after it became obvious that Jean-Luc would not reject her out of hand if she disclosed her past to him. And, when the inevitable happens, he reacts exactly as I anticipated he would. He also basically told her to stop torturing herself, because the shame she carried was all in her head. (He was much nicer about it, of course, but it was a relief to basically see him tell her to get over it already.)
This book was exquisite and I can't wait to read the Procurer's tale, the final book in the quartet. The only thing holding this back from a 5 star review and a spot on my squee buttons shelf is Sophia.
April 1, 2018
London - 1818
The infamous woman known as The Procurer has come to see Lady Sophia Acton, age 26, to offer her a position. Many people know of The Procurer, but few have met her. Her mission in life is to offer aid to deserving women who have fallen on hard times. Lady Sophia had fallen from grace and this woman wants to help her.
Paris - 1818
Sophia has arrived in Paris to meet the handsome Jean-Luc Bauduin, a French wine merchant, and begin her role of acting as his wife. It is thought that the very busy man is married to his business. There is a French woman, Mademoiselle Juliette de Cressy, daughter of the late Comte and Comtesse de Cressy, who very much wants to marry Jean-Luc. This reason he needs this faux marriage to Sophia is to deter the woman.
Juliette claims that Jean-Luc is a Duke and is the actual son of the Duc de Montendre who was killed by the guillotine. In addition, there is a marriage contract signed by the Comte and the Duc. Jean-Luc claims the Duc was not his father.
As Sophia and Jean-Luc spend time together, he realizes what a lovely and gracious woman she is and she, in turn, is very taken with him in every way. They find themselves falling in love with one another.
Sophia has not been fully honest with Jean-Luc and realizes that while she desperately loves him, when he finds the truth about her past, he won’t want her. Is there a chance for these two lovers to be able to pledge themselves one to the other?
Marguerite Kaye has written a gorgeous novel. It takes place in France which totally owns my heart. She describes Paris as I know it and her food descriptions made my mouth water. As always, her research is impeccable. I selfishly feel that she wrote this book for me. But, then again, if you are a Francophile like me, you will think she wrote the book for you. Well done!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
The infamous woman known as The Procurer has come to see Lady Sophia Acton, age 26, to offer her a position. Many people know of The Procurer, but few have met her. Her mission in life is to offer aid to deserving women who have fallen on hard times. Lady Sophia had fallen from grace and this woman wants to help her.
Paris - 1818
Sophia has arrived in Paris to meet the handsome Jean-Luc Bauduin, a French wine merchant, and begin her role of acting as his wife. It is thought that the very busy man is married to his business. There is a French woman, Mademoiselle Juliette de Cressy, daughter of the late Comte and Comtesse de Cressy, who very much wants to marry Jean-Luc. This reason he needs this faux marriage to Sophia is to deter the woman.
Juliette claims that Jean-Luc is a Duke and is the actual son of the Duc de Montendre who was killed by the guillotine. In addition, there is a marriage contract signed by the Comte and the Duc. Jean-Luc claims the Duc was not his father.
As Sophia and Jean-Luc spend time together, he realizes what a lovely and gracious woman she is and she, in turn, is very taken with him in every way. They find themselves falling in love with one another.
Sophia has not been fully honest with Jean-Luc and realizes that while she desperately loves him, when he finds the truth about her past, he won’t want her. Is there a chance for these two lovers to be able to pledge themselves one to the other?
Marguerite Kaye has written a gorgeous novel. It takes place in France which totally owns my heart. She describes Paris as I know it and her food descriptions made my mouth water. As always, her research is impeccable. I selfishly feel that she wrote this book for me. But, then again, if you are a Francophile like me, you will think she wrote the book for you. Well done!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
May 1, 2018
In the second book of the Matches Made in Scandal series, Jean-Luc Bauduin, wealthy wine seller in Paris, sought the help of The Procurer to get him a fake wife until he could prove his identity. Sophia Acton has come to Paris to act as his wife in name only and to earn enough money to enable her to live independently. Soon, however, their mutual attraction to each other blossomed into something more serious. As Jean-Luc and Sophia search for answers to his identity hidden in the mists of the French Revolution, they draw closer to each other and she finally tells him the truth about her background which mattered not to him. In the end, it was a HEA for everyone.
This story was slightly darker than the first story, mostly due to its relationship to the French Revolution and its terrors. However, the descriptions of Paris take you there or take you back if you've been there before as do some of the other place settings. The story moves well and the characters are believable. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review and I've tried to do this.
This story was slightly darker than the first story, mostly due to its relationship to the French Revolution and its terrors. However, the descriptions of Paris take you there or take you back if you've been there before as do some of the other place settings. The story moves well and the characters are believable. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was given this book by the author for an honest review and I've tried to do this.
March 21, 2018
This book was an interesting read. I didn’t warm to Sophia as much as the other heroine’s in this series, including Marguerite’s free read on the Harlequin web site. I suppose she seemed much more ‘damaged’ than the others and was still working hard to recover. They have all been victims of circumstances but perhaps Sophia was in a more untenable position that the others.
I did like the hero Jean-Luc, he seemed a very charismatic personality and his back story was well fleshed out.
It’s lovely to find out new historical aspects in Marguerite’s books and this series has been set away from London which is refreshing.
You can read this book as a standalone.
I’m looking forward to the denouement for the Procurer, the last book in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and hope like me you enjoyed the story.
I did like the hero Jean-Luc, he seemed a very charismatic personality and his back story was well fleshed out.
It’s lovely to find out new historical aspects in Marguerite’s books and this series has been set away from London which is refreshing.
You can read this book as a standalone.
I’m looking forward to the denouement for the Procurer, the last book in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and hope like me you enjoyed the story.
May 3, 2018
Jean-Luc is a successful, French wine merchant. He finds himself in a bind when a young noble woman insists he’s the son of a Duke and contracted to marry her. He hires Sophia thru a 3rd party to be his pretend wife. The slow unfurling of Sophia’s history and their getting to know each other was well done. There were moments when the story could have taken the same old cliches instead it was fresh. Jean-Luc would never think of taking a mistress, he waits for his lover to indicate she’s ready for the next step, and he doesn’t assume the worst of Sophia. Sophia’s past actions are understandable and her motives altruistic but she isn’t presented as a martyr. The description of Paris, French food and history were an added bonus. Well done!
November 6, 2018
From Courtesan To Convenient Wife is a regency style romance set in Paris. It is book #2 of the Matches Made In Scandal series.
The book opens in 1818; a woman known as The Procurer has been asked to find someone who would be willing to play the role of a wife for a short period of time. Lady Sophia Acton has had a fall from grace and is heading towards poverty when The Procurer calls with a fortunate job offer.
In Paris, French wine merchant Jean-Luc Bauduin needs an instant wife. A mysterious woman recently claimed that she had a legal contract of proposed marriage between herself and Jean-Luc; a document he knows nothing about. He hopes that Sophia’s presence will head off an unwanted situation. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-bN9
The book opens in 1818; a woman known as The Procurer has been asked to find someone who would be willing to play the role of a wife for a short period of time. Lady Sophia Acton has had a fall from grace and is heading towards poverty when The Procurer calls with a fortunate job offer.
In Paris, French wine merchant Jean-Luc Bauduin needs an instant wife. A mysterious woman recently claimed that she had a legal contract of proposed marriage between herself and Jean-Luc; a document he knows nothing about. He hopes that Sophia’s presence will head off an unwanted situation. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-bN9
September 29, 2021
A thoroughly enjoyable read from an author well established in the Harlequin Historical series, who displayed a deftness of touch in telling a well plotted story and keep the reader engaged. I was glad that I didn't know the that Jean-Luc being the Duke's heir would turn out positively, but being a Mills & Boon romance it was certain he and Sophia would enjoy a happy ending. I am confident that on a the strength of this I will be reading more Marguerite Kaye in future. I have enjoyed reading multiple books by authors in the M & B Modern for years, but many Historical series authors, are new
to me, but Marguerite Kaye emerges as one of the best!
Thoroughly recommended!
to me, but Marguerite Kaye emerges as one of the best!
Thoroughly recommended!
August 14, 2022
'The procurer offered an escape route from their tribulations to those women whose particular skills or traits suited her current requirements...The procurer despaired of the tiny impact her altruism had, when set against the myriad of injustices the world perpertrated against women.'
Paris' most eligible batchelor needs a fake wife to ward off his swarm of fortune hunters. The Procurer hires Sophia, a lady who has fallen upon hard times to fill the role.
The couple are attracted to each other straight away and soon begin to fall in love. What I really enjoyed was that they both had shadows from the past to deal with and how they help each other overcome their problems.
Paris' most eligible batchelor needs a fake wife to ward off his swarm of fortune hunters. The Procurer hires Sophia, a lady who has fallen upon hard times to fill the role.
The couple are attracted to each other straight away and soon begin to fall in love. What I really enjoyed was that they both had shadows from the past to deal with and how they help each other overcome their problems.
March 23, 2018
Another fantastic read by Marguerite Kaye. The story setting in Paris which I loved. Very well written book following Paris's most eligible bachelor who intends to find a wife who he wants, Sophie is hired to ward of ladies until he finds the one. But Sophie gphas a past of her own...... Very interesting well written love story with intrigue. Thank you Marguerite for another fantastic book. I would definitely recommend to anyone.
April 2, 2018
Another great story from Ms. Kaye. As usual, I loved the strong characters of both the hero and heroine - and the honesty and forthright conversations between the hero and heroine. The strong attraction and admiration and respect the hero and heroine have are immediate and grow as they get to know one another. I always love the stories Ms. Kaye writes and this one was no exception. I very gratefully accepted the offer to read and review and ARC for the author. I truly love her books.
January 13, 2019
Sometimes (quite often) Mills and Boon regency are based on interesting stories and have captivating and relatable characters. This is one of those books - loved from beginning to end, with the 'procuress' of the first few pages setting the story for a post-revolution French love story which is worth the read x
January 8, 2019
I gave this two stars. The second star is for the plot, which was really good. Unfortunately, the other one star is for the writing . It had to have been written on a 5th grade level and even the best plot in the world cannot recover from such juvenile prose.
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June 17, 2023Fake marriage of convenience trope; a heroine who's a former courtesan in need of a second chance at life; post-Restoration France in 1818; parallel mysteries about the hero and heroine's pasts; a hero who's unfailingly noble
June 14, 2020
An excellent historical romance well worth a read.
April 3, 2018
Read my review on RomanceJunkies.com by clicking on the link below:
http://romancejunkies.com/reviews/fro...
http://romancejunkies.com/reviews/fro...
November 4, 2019
I really did like this book. It was a different read with Lady Sophia taking on the role of hired fiancee to a rich gentleman Jean-Luc of Parisian Society. One twist is he has hired her unknowing of her past and her secret need and she is introduced in quite an unusual manner. It is refreshing to have a 'commoner' hero who has the heart to understand and want to care for this lovely woman. I do not want to spoil it for the reader but I found other twists and it all became clear in a very satisfying ending. Thank You Marguerite for my hours of enjoyment.
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April 28, 2018"Kaye takes the standard marriage-of-convenience trope in a new direction in the second book of her Matches Made in Scandal series. The setting and backdrop of post-Revolutionary France is refreshing, as is the tender romance and delightful characters. Readers will easily empathize with Jean-Luc, Juliette and most of all Sophia’s situations as they cheer them into the HEA each deserves" (4 stars @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Matches Made in Scandal
Miniseries: Matches Made in Scandal
June 20, 2021
I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed this second book in the series as we return to the world of the mysterious Procurer and the next woman she approaches for a special task, Lady Sophia Acton. This book moves between London and Paris in 1818 and you don’t need to have read From Governess to Countess in order to follow the story.
Sophia we learn has a past. We don’t know what has happened only that it has ruined the future she may have had in London society. The Procurer offers her an assignment in Paris working for Jean-Luc. As we may expect these two are about to go on a journey loaded with mystery and tragedy and will have to fight their way through it to a joint future.
I really enjoyed learning about post-Napoleonic Paris travelling to places that were so vivid I could picture them. I found Jean-Luc’s predicament interesting and possibly symptomatic of that chaotic time but ultimately a bit too easily solved. Sophia’s too. The initial drama of their problems petered out a little too quickly and was rather easily accepted by all concerned.
I did like the easy genuine warmth of these two and their intimacy was lower key and rather more tender than other Historicals I have recently read making it more refreshing.
All in all it was a good read and I look forward to eventually reading the next two books in this series.
I enjoyed this second book in the series as we return to the world of the mysterious Procurer and the next woman she approaches for a special task, Lady Sophia Acton. This book moves between London and Paris in 1818 and you don’t need to have read From Governess to Countess in order to follow the story.
Sophia we learn has a past. We don’t know what has happened only that it has ruined the future she may have had in London society. The Procurer offers her an assignment in Paris working for Jean-Luc. As we may expect these two are about to go on a journey loaded with mystery and tragedy and will have to fight their way through it to a joint future.
I really enjoyed learning about post-Napoleonic Paris travelling to places that were so vivid I could picture them. I found Jean-Luc’s predicament interesting and possibly symptomatic of that chaotic time but ultimately a bit too easily solved. Sophia’s too. The initial drama of their problems petered out a little too quickly and was rather easily accepted by all concerned.
I did like the easy genuine warmth of these two and their intimacy was lower key and rather more tender than other Historicals I have recently read making it more refreshing.
All in all it was a good read and I look forward to eventually reading the next two books in this series.
December 21, 2018
I enjoyed this gorgeous stroll through a Paris recovering from the Napoleonic Wars and reflecting on revolutions. An English woman of quality who was obliged to be a courtesan, for lack of money, arrives to be a pretend wife to a respectable wine merchant. The bourgeoisie have plenty of money and she doesn't lack for entertainment, but knowing it's a sham and she'll have to leave when her purpose is served, she can't rest easy.
This is quite an involved plot and back story as well as current romance embroider the tale. I always admire the depth of research and vivid recreation of history from this author. Enjoy.
I downloaded an e-ARC when the author made it available and reviewed on Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
This is quite an involved plot and back story as well as current romance embroider the tale. I always admire the depth of research and vivid recreation of history from this author. Enjoy.
I downloaded an e-ARC when the author made it available and reviewed on Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
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