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Spinsters Club #1
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters
The first rule of the Spinsters Club You do not talk about the Spinsters Club. The second rule of the Spinsters Club You do not talk about the Spinsters Club. The third rule...Well, Merry understands the rules of the Spinsters Club fully, considering it was her idea in the first place. When one of her good friends loses her heart to an utter rogue and is ruined forever, she's determined that the life of a spinster is for her. Thankfully, she's not alone. Her three dearest friends have had their share of heartbreak and resolve to join her. No matter what the demanding mamas and papas of the world say, they will not give up their spinsterhood. Particularly not to the handsome Lord Harcourt Easton, the Earl of Langley. Merry has always liked Harcourt-after all he is her brother's best friend-but she cannot fathom his sudden interest in her. After all, he was well known to be quite the rogue at times and she's hardly the sort to attract the attention of a rake. But Harcourt has loved Merry for some time now. And he's determined to make her see that. If only he could get past this stubborn determination that she should never marry and convince her he's the man for her. The death of her father and some strange incidents that put Merry in danger might not be ideal circumstances to woo a woman, but Harcourt is willing to make the best of a dire situation-especially while Merry needs a shoulder to cry on. Harcourt could well be the most amazing man she knows, and Merry cannot help but be grateful for his support, but she cannot very well turn her back on the Spinsters Club so soon...can she?
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2018
870 people are currently reading
879 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Holt
303 books701 followersSamantha Holt resides in Warwickshire, England, with her twin girls, having followed her soldier husband around the UK for nearly 10 years. Growing up in Hampshire, she was inspired by the authors Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, both of whom lived and wrote only miles from her home town.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 11, 2018
The actual story was okay although a little shallow and not especially memorable. And it’s very repetitive: Merry goes round and round (ha!) about not wanting to betray her friends or trust Harry; Harry is recalcitrant to mention his intentions to Merry or his mother and then wonders why no one just goes along with it.
Had the characters at least been interesting, I might’ve been willing to overlook that and rated this higher.
What really irked me, though, was the form-of-address errors. It’s not hard to figure out and a quick Google search can help.
Merry is Not Lady Merry—she’s Miss Bradford since her father was a viscount.
Harry should be called Langley—his title—not Easton, his surname. Nor should he be addressed as Lord Harcourt Easton.
None of Merry’s friends should be calling Harry by his given name; they hardly know him and surely haven’t been given leave to do so.
I’m also annoyed that the slight hint of suspense came to nothing. It was probably the most engaging part of the book.
Had the characters at least been interesting, I might’ve been willing to overlook that and rated this higher.
What really irked me, though, was the form-of-address errors. It’s not hard to figure out and a quick Google search can help.
Merry is Not Lady Merry—she’s Miss Bradford since her father was a viscount.
Harry should be called Langley—his title—not Easton, his surname. Nor should he be addressed as Lord Harcourt Easton.
None of Merry’s friends should be calling Harry by his given name; they hardly know him and surely haven’t been given leave to do so.
I’m also annoyed that the slight hint of suspense came to nothing. It was probably the most engaging part of the book.
May 14, 2018
I can’t believe i read the whole story waiting for it to get better 😳 the secondary plot fell flat... the heroine was ridiculous she carried stupidity to a whole new level and worsened was boring . I wanted to like the hero but he was a sap and where was the back story to tell us why he was so in love with her? This story was not even close to the quality I expected from this author.
I went back and read the other reviews again and wondered how they gave this book the ratings they did.
I went back and read the other reviews again and wondered how they gave this book the ratings they did.
April 10, 2018
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters by Samantha Holt is the First book in the Spinsters Club. This is the story of Lady Merry Bradford and Lord Harcourt Easton, the Earl of Langley.
Merry and her friends form a Spinsters Club since they are all determine to stay that way after all being hurt in some form or other. Merry has always liked her brother's friend Harcourt, but now all of sudden it seems he has taken an interest in her.
Harcourt is moving forward with his feelings for Merry but will she give in to what they both want?
Another great story by Ms. Holt! Can't wait for the other stories in this series!
Merry and her friends form a Spinsters Club since they are all determine to stay that way after all being hurt in some form or other. Merry has always liked her brother's friend Harcourt, but now all of sudden it seems he has taken an interest in her.
Harcourt is moving forward with his feelings for Merry but will she give in to what they both want?
Another great story by Ms. Holt! Can't wait for the other stories in this series!
September 9, 2018
This didn't get off to an auspicious start with the introduction of two characters with the same christian name. At first I thought it was going to be a major plot point, but it wasnt - so my question is WHY?? WHY give two characters the same name? What purpose did it serve?? (And yes, I know one was referred to as 'Arabella' and the other 'Arabella' was called 'Bella' but the whole thing seemed stupid to me.
However, I ploughed on, noting several discrepancies with the forms of 'address' to various characters - I'm not going into the details, other reviewers have stated it in their reviews - as well as instances of anachronistic dialogue and behaviour.
My real gripe with this novel is the lack of any reasonable plot. Yes, there were sub-plots, but there were red herrings and simply cast aside at the end as if the author suddenly realised she had not set up any real way of resolving them and made some pathetic reason for the creepy happenings.
NOT good. really, really not good.
What irked me though was the sex scene.
Merry has only just realised that she loves Harry and she meets him in the library while a ball is being held... she is innocent, naive, virginal, sweet, expects to be a spinster, has two friends who have be 'ruined' by men and yet she willingly has sex with him - in the sodding library on the floor!!
WHY is it always the library? Why didn't Harry treat her with SOME modicum of respect and treat her as if he loved her rather than as if she was just another of his conquests? And Merry was an utter idiot as well. No woman who felt the way she had, would have been so easily lured into sex before marriage - I don't think marriage was even mentioned before they were at it on rug in front of the (unlit) fireplace. Very 'romantic' - not.
Meh. Cast-aside subplots, poor historical research and a very trite, cliched and implausible sex scene make this one I could have enjoyed, but I didn't.
1.5 stars rounded down for the way the author simply ignored the subplots as if they had never appeared throughout the book.
However, I ploughed on, noting several discrepancies with the forms of 'address' to various characters - I'm not going into the details, other reviewers have stated it in their reviews - as well as instances of anachronistic dialogue and behaviour.
My real gripe with this novel is the lack of any reasonable plot. Yes, there were sub-plots, but there were red herrings and simply cast aside at the end as if the author suddenly realised she had not set up any real way of resolving them and made some pathetic reason for the creepy happenings.
NOT good. really, really not good.
What irked me though was the sex scene.
Merry has only just realised that she loves Harry and she meets him in the library while a ball is being held... she is innocent, naive, virginal, sweet, expects to be a spinster, has two friends who have be 'ruined' by men and yet she willingly has sex with him - in the sodding library on the floor!!
WHY is it always the library? Why didn't Harry treat her with SOME modicum of respect and treat her as if he loved her rather than as if she was just another of his conquests? And Merry was an utter idiot as well. No woman who felt the way she had, would have been so easily lured into sex before marriage - I don't think marriage was even mentioned before they were at it on rug in front of the (unlit) fireplace. Very 'romantic' - not.
Meh. Cast-aside subplots, poor historical research and a very trite, cliched and implausible sex scene make this one I could have enjoyed, but I didn't.
1.5 stars rounded down for the way the author simply ignored the subplots as if they had never appeared throughout the book.
August 27, 2018
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.. I had read a similar story like this years ago and enjoyed so I decided to give this one a try, one because I enjoyed the blurb, and two because I like this author. I am glad that I did because I enjoyed it, it was entertaining. I had read a review where someone was upset due to the age of these so called spinsters, but what they should have remembered is that in that era these woman were considered either old maid or spinsters it is just how it was and in some cultures that still the case to a degree. That being said I would recommend this book it was cute and fun and sometimes we just need that. Enjoy! get married. One of the ladies is a widow, the other was ruined by a rake, but it remains her secret. The other young ladies just decide men are no good and aren't worth it!
August 30, 2018
Good read but some serious issues - SPOILERS AHEAD
SPOILERS AHEAD
I mostly enjoyed this book. The Spinster Club was cute and the best friend of the H made for fun times. I loved the fact that the H knew he was in love with the h from the beginning. However his attempts at wooing her seemed a bit off. Why not simply ask to date her with the intention of matrimony. It’s what any other man would have done, even if he was rejected. Women didn’t really have a choice in these times. Or he could have just compromised her. Instead, he risks her reputation at every turn. How does that make her fall in love with you? None of his actions made any sense.
The worst part was the sex scene at the end of the book. There was no point to it. She already agreed to marry you. Why not just wait until the wedding night? Instead, you have sex on the floor during a party where anyone could walk in?!! With a virgin whom you claim to love and who has not been exposed to more than a few kisses.
This book had the potential to be a 5 star book but fell short for the reasons stated above. I still intend to give this author another try.
SPOILERS AHEAD
I mostly enjoyed this book. The Spinster Club was cute and the best friend of the H made for fun times. I loved the fact that the H knew he was in love with the h from the beginning. However his attempts at wooing her seemed a bit off. Why not simply ask to date her with the intention of matrimony. It’s what any other man would have done, even if he was rejected. Women didn’t really have a choice in these times. Or he could have just compromised her. Instead, he risks her reputation at every turn. How does that make her fall in love with you? None of his actions made any sense.
The worst part was the sex scene at the end of the book. There was no point to it. She already agreed to marry you. Why not just wait until the wedding night? Instead, you have sex on the floor during a party where anyone could walk in?!! With a virgin whom you claim to love and who has not been exposed to more than a few kisses.
This book had the potential to be a 5 star book but fell short for the reasons stated above. I still intend to give this author another try.
April 10, 2018
Entertaining from beginning until the last page is turned! What to do when you have formed a Spinsters Club with your 3 best friends, but find yourself attracted to a man? You are in a tangle! Merry decides to form a club when her friends have all gone through some type of difficulty with men and she is determined they remain single. Yes Spinsters. But with her brother just married and away on his honeymoon, Merry's father passes away and things begin to happy. Lucky for her, Harry, Lord Easton, Earl of Langley is around to help her. No, she does not need help but Harry seems to be near at every turn. The best friend of her brother's, Harry has been around Merry for a long time and has watched her grow into a beautiful woman. Now he just has to convince her of his love but that may take some time!! I have really enjoyed every book I have read by Samantha Holt. She is able to bring the characters alive and keeps me thoroughly entertained. I cannot wait for the rest of this series to see what happens to the ladies of the Spinster Club!!
July 13, 2018
2.5/5.0
“Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters” puts its female characters in control of their destiny.
Read full review in the 2018 July Aug issue of InD'tale Magazine.
“Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters” puts its female characters in control of their destiny.
Read full review in the 2018 July Aug issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 5, 2020
Fair.
July 30, 2018
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters by Samantha Holt is a fantastic historical romance. Ms. Holt has once again delivered a well-written book. The characters in this book are outstanding and a perfect fit for this story. Merry and her friends have formed the Spinster Club as they have no expectations or wishes to marry. Harry is Merry's neighbor and her brother's best friend. Their story is loaded with drama, humor, action, suspense and sexy bits. I loved this book from cover to cover and look forward to my next book by Samantha Holt. Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters is book 1 of the Spinster Club Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2018
So, this book. I will say that I read this book as part of a readathon but I bought it was a while ago as a recommendation for the author, rather than the book itself. And while I will say this book is readable, I probably wouldn't put it anywhere near a recommended reads list for romance.
Things I did like:
- a strong friendship group for the female main character. They didn't just appear at the start of the story to introduce the spinsters club and then disappear, the friendship is actually shown as they help Merry with the house and accompany her on shopping trips and talk about their lives together. It's friendship that actually feels like friendship rather than just in name only.
- Harcourt pining over Merry Hey, it's not the heroine pining over her brother's best friend, it's the other way around!
- Harcourt's mum A matchmaking mother that isn't overbearing or ignoring what her child wants completely? Yes please!
Things I didn't like:
- Suspense plot going nowhere
- Merry's excuses. I understand she wants to be loyal to her friends but instead of talking it out, she holds everything in and angsts over everything. Oh yes, Merry, it really says something about your friends that you think they would prefer you to be unhappy. And how she keeps bringing up Harcourt's past to herself and to her friends but doesn't let him defend himself.
- Merry. Very similar to the category above. I was fed up with Merry and her constant denial of what Harcourt was feeling. If I felt like this was coming from Harcourt's own behaviour towards Merry, then I would find it fair enough but she seems to like and enjoy his company and her main objection was that he slept around in London. And then wouldn't talk to him about it. Alright then.
-The romance. Not that exciting and felt quite generic. That isn't good for a romance novel.
What I did like was far overshadowed by how nondescript the book was. The only thing that stood out for me was Merry's friendship with the rest of the girls. If the rest of the series is on Kindle Unlimited, I might check it out but right now I'm not tempted to spend any money on the rest of her books. This book was very quick, I think I finished it in about an hour but there wasn't anything else to really recommend it. 3 stars!
Things I did like:
- a strong friendship group for the female main character. They didn't just appear at the start of the story to introduce the spinsters club and then disappear, the friendship is actually shown as they help Merry with the house and accompany her on shopping trips and talk about their lives together. It's friendship that actually feels like friendship rather than just in name only.
- Harcourt pining over Merry Hey, it's not the heroine pining over her brother's best friend, it's the other way around!
- Harcourt's mum A matchmaking mother that isn't overbearing or ignoring what her child wants completely? Yes please!
Things I didn't like:
- Suspense plot going nowhere
- Merry's excuses. I understand she wants to be loyal to her friends but instead of talking it out, she holds everything in and angsts over everything. Oh yes, Merry, it really says something about your friends that you think they would prefer you to be unhappy. And how she keeps bringing up Harcourt's past to herself and to her friends but doesn't let him defend himself.
- Merry. Very similar to the category above. I was fed up with Merry and her constant denial of what Harcourt was feeling. If I felt like this was coming from Harcourt's own behaviour towards Merry, then I would find it fair enough but she seems to like and enjoy his company and her main objection was that he slept around in London. And then wouldn't talk to him about it. Alright then.
-The romance. Not that exciting and felt quite generic. That isn't good for a romance novel.
What I did like was far overshadowed by how nondescript the book was. The only thing that stood out for me was Merry's friendship with the rest of the girls. If the rest of the series is on Kindle Unlimited, I might check it out but right now I'm not tempted to spend any money on the rest of her books. This book was very quick, I think I finished it in about an hour but there wasn't anything else to really recommend it. 3 stars!
August 30, 2018
Reviewed at Romantic Historicals
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters kicks off the Spinsters Club series with a fun romance between a very stubborn young woman, and a very determined Earl. Actually, the cover description blurb tells you just about everything you need to know to decide to try this story. All that's left is my reaction to Merry and Harry's romance.
Merry is so stubborn and head-strong that at times I really wanted to sit her down for a stern talking to... over tea or maybe brandy would work better. Of the four ladies that make up the newly formed Spinsters Club Merry is actually the best off of all of them in her place in life and society. The other ladies have far more reasons to decide that they will never marry and put themselves under the control of a man. Merry is concerned about a "curse" set upon the family long ago that decrees that none shall find marital happiness... so she's simply not going to ever marry so that she can remain happy with her books and not incur the dreaded family curse. (sigh) Yes, I indeed did just sigh.
Harry has known Merry for years, he is her brother Daniel's best friend. In true form and tradition of the time, Harry had gone off to London and sowed his wild oats... very well in fact. Now he's older, the chase is less thrilling and Merry is in his thoughts far too often to be a coincidence. He's come to realize that he loves Merry and would have her as his wife... if she would just believe him and admit that she has feelings for him as well. But, being the stubborn minx that she is that is the last admission Merry is likely to make. She cannot believe Harry loves her, even though she does consider him a friend, why he would continue this lie to tease her is beyond her imagination.
I had fun with Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters. I do have a few wishes about this story, but to mention them would involve spoilers so I'll keep those thoughts to myself. There were times that Merry was frustrating beyond words, and times that the scared of what she was feeling young woman appeared as well. There's a bit of a mystery going on. And a very satisfying, steamy ending as well. I did enjoy this one, and I'm looking forward to the other ladies in the Spinster Club getting their stories told.
I own a copy of this story.
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters kicks off the Spinsters Club series with a fun romance between a very stubborn young woman, and a very determined Earl. Actually, the cover description blurb tells you just about everything you need to know to decide to try this story. All that's left is my reaction to Merry and Harry's romance.
Merry is so stubborn and head-strong that at times I really wanted to sit her down for a stern talking to... over tea or maybe brandy would work better. Of the four ladies that make up the newly formed Spinsters Club Merry is actually the best off of all of them in her place in life and society. The other ladies have far more reasons to decide that they will never marry and put themselves under the control of a man. Merry is concerned about a "curse" set upon the family long ago that decrees that none shall find marital happiness... so she's simply not going to ever marry so that she can remain happy with her books and not incur the dreaded family curse. (sigh) Yes, I indeed did just sigh.
Harry has known Merry for years, he is her brother Daniel's best friend. In true form and tradition of the time, Harry had gone off to London and sowed his wild oats... very well in fact. Now he's older, the chase is less thrilling and Merry is in his thoughts far too often to be a coincidence. He's come to realize that he loves Merry and would have her as his wife... if she would just believe him and admit that she has feelings for him as well. But, being the stubborn minx that she is that is the last admission Merry is likely to make. She cannot believe Harry loves her, even though she does consider him a friend, why he would continue this lie to tease her is beyond her imagination.
I had fun with Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters. I do have a few wishes about this story, but to mention them would involve spoilers so I'll keep those thoughts to myself. There were times that Merry was frustrating beyond words, and times that the scared of what she was feeling young woman appeared as well. There's a bit of a mystery going on. And a very satisfying, steamy ending as well. I did enjoy this one, and I'm looking forward to the other ladies in the Spinster Club getting their stories told.
I own a copy of this story.
January 4, 2019
This is a sweet little romance between self-proclaimed spinster Merry Bradford, daughter of Viscount Bradford and her brother's best friend Harcourt/Harry Easton, Earl of Langley. At twenty, Merry is a very young woman inexperienced with men. She has only heard horror stories from her three friends. One a widow, another abandoned, another exasperated of men, especially her older brothers that do not treat her kindly or respectfully. Merry developed an attitude that all men were like her father and the other men she had heard about. They were not kind men. The only kind man she knew was her brother Daniel. So, as a result of all this she invented the Spinster's Club with her three friends. They all vowed to protect each other from men breaking their hearts. At thirty, Harry had given up his roguish life because he suddenly realized his attraction to Merry. He decided to win her hand and nothing would stop him. He was in for a battle. Both he and Merry were like stubborn mules and constantly butted heads. When Daniel left for his honeymoon, Harry thought it was a good time to spend more time around Merry as her protector. She became completely unglued around him and she did not want to admit she wanted him. Harry is a good and kind man always gentle and thoughtful. The more time Harry spent with Merry he became more determined to have her and she dug her heels in to keep him away from her. The story covers the back and forth between them. But then there were troubling things happening around Merry that caused Harry to think she was in danger. He was constantly worried about her and Merry thought it was ridiculous that someone was trying to harm her. Then there is Harry's friend Griff, Michael Griffin, heir to the dukedom of Harington. He insisted on joining Harry going from London to his country estate. Griff knew that Harry had changed but did not know why. Now that Griff was in the country he became attracted to Arabella/Bella Lockhart, one of Merry's close friends. In the book it made a point to present this new angle to the story but it failed to follow through to any conclusion. This is a sweet and cute story but did not keep me deeply engaged. The overall story has potential but there is room for improvement.
April 12, 2018
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters is a wonderful introduction to a new series. Four friends, each with a different reason for wanting to stay away from men, make a vow not to marry or allow men to control their lives. They become the Spinsters Club.
The first story features Merry Bradford, who desires nothing more than to be independent and left alone, and Harry Easton, her brother’s rakish best friend. When Merry’s father dies while her brother Daniel is sway on his wedding trip, Harry, who, by the way, has fallen head over heals with her, comes to help and protect her. Well, Merry will have nothing to do with that. Will Harry be able to convince her to let him help her? Will he be able to convince her that his rakish days are over, that he loves her, and that they belong together? She will not make it easy on him.
The characters in this story are great. The girls are so different from each other, yet are true friends. Their friendship is beautifully portrayed. Harry is strong and determined, the perfect hero for this story. Harry’s friend Grif is a typically Ton gentleman. I don’t think we’ve seen the last of him. Harry’s mother is funny and not so subtle in her effort to help both gentlemen find a bride. The story moves along at a steady pace and has a bit of mystery and danger, and a lot of humor (the girl’s attempt at renovating the dower house is hilarious). There is a bit of sadness, but this is a happy story. I think the other stories in the series will follow suit, and I look forward to them all.
The first story features Merry Bradford, who desires nothing more than to be independent and left alone, and Harry Easton, her brother’s rakish best friend. When Merry’s father dies while her brother Daniel is sway on his wedding trip, Harry, who, by the way, has fallen head over heals with her, comes to help and protect her. Well, Merry will have nothing to do with that. Will Harry be able to convince her to let him help her? Will he be able to convince her that his rakish days are over, that he loves her, and that they belong together? She will not make it easy on him.
The characters in this story are great. The girls are so different from each other, yet are true friends. Their friendship is beautifully portrayed. Harry is strong and determined, the perfect hero for this story. Harry’s friend Grif is a typically Ton gentleman. I don’t think we’ve seen the last of him. Harry’s mother is funny and not so subtle in her effort to help both gentlemen find a bride. The story moves along at a steady pace and has a bit of mystery and danger, and a lot of humor (the girl’s attempt at renovating the dower house is hilarious). There is a bit of sadness, but this is a happy story. I think the other stories in the series will follow suit, and I look forward to them all.
April 11, 2018
Four friends: Merry Bradford, Sophie and Arabella Pemberton (sisters) and another Arabella, called Bella, Ryder.
Although they are not so old in age (Sophia is the oldest and widow), they are tired of being victimized by men, even by their own family. Arabella, the first one, still had to suffer the humiliation of giving her maidenhood to a man who said loved her, but who left for America in search of fortune, and she never heard of him again.
Merry decides then to create the Spinsters Club, in which they make a pact to remain single and one would help the other not to get in trouble because of men.
Harry Harcourt, Earl of Langley, is Daniel's friend, Merry's brother.
After having a life ruled by pleasures, and having the reputation of rake, Harry begins to look at Merry with other eyes.
The cultured girl who was always distracted by her nose in some book about Greek mythology was a challenge to him. And the strangest thing: although she was only twenty years old, Merry had no desire to marry.
After her father's death, and with her brother traveling on a honeymoon, Harry realizes that a series of unexplained accidents begin to happen to Merry, when she decides she would leave her brother and wife living in the mansion, and she would live in the dower house.
Someone wanted to hurt Merry, and Harry would find out who he was, why, and convince her that his rake days were a thing of the past.
4,5 stars
Although they are not so old in age (Sophia is the oldest and widow), they are tired of being victimized by men, even by their own family. Arabella, the first one, still had to suffer the humiliation of giving her maidenhood to a man who said loved her, but who left for America in search of fortune, and she never heard of him again.
Merry decides then to create the Spinsters Club, in which they make a pact to remain single and one would help the other not to get in trouble because of men.
Harry Harcourt, Earl of Langley, is Daniel's friend, Merry's brother.
After having a life ruled by pleasures, and having the reputation of rake, Harry begins to look at Merry with other eyes.
The cultured girl who was always distracted by her nose in some book about Greek mythology was a challenge to him. And the strangest thing: although she was only twenty years old, Merry had no desire to marry.
After her father's death, and with her brother traveling on a honeymoon, Harry realizes that a series of unexplained accidents begin to happen to Merry, when she decides she would leave her brother and wife living in the mansion, and she would live in the dower house.
Someone wanted to hurt Merry, and Harry would find out who he was, why, and convince her that his rake days were a thing of the past.
4,5 stars
April 12, 2018
Merry Spinsters💋💃 of Whitley Grange
Adults Only Recency Style Romance, circa 1817
Four young ladies of breeding dislike the balls and teas of the era, the pressure to find a husband. It's the Dating Game of the times. Young ladies of breeding must always be chaperoned when in the company of a suitor, or any young man not a relative!
Merry💋💃 gathers her friends together one day and they decide to pledge never to get married. One of the ladies is a widow, the other was ruined by a rake, but it remains her secret. The other young ladies just decide men are no good and aren't worth it!
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋, a tall handsome, young Earl, and best friend of Merry's brother, Daniel, is one of those young men who dally with widows and fallen women. He's one of those men with the reputation of a rake. He's a baaaad boy sex toy!🐺🍆🌋
Maybe Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 is growing up, and Merry💋💃 has definitely grown up, although she's a dedicated bookworm 📚. Her nose is always in a book📑. Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 wants to get her out to see the world 🌎. He wants her to see him as more than her brother's friend.
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 decides Merry💋💃 is the one for him. His days as a rake are over! Now he just has to get Merry💃💋 to see he is serious about wanting her for his wife👰. Hang the oath the Spinsters took to be single forever!
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 will be Merry's own personal rake!
Fun book📑 about a sweet time in England's long history! Recommend!
ARC Received from BS for a Voluntary and Honest Review.
I also got the book📑 with KU.
Adults Only Recency Style Romance, circa 1817
Four young ladies of breeding dislike the balls and teas of the era, the pressure to find a husband. It's the Dating Game of the times. Young ladies of breeding must always be chaperoned when in the company of a suitor, or any young man not a relative!
Merry💋💃 gathers her friends together one day and they decide to pledge never to get married. One of the ladies is a widow, the other was ruined by a rake, but it remains her secret. The other young ladies just decide men are no good and aren't worth it!
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋, a tall handsome, young Earl, and best friend of Merry's brother, Daniel, is one of those young men who dally with widows and fallen women. He's one of those men with the reputation of a rake. He's a baaaad boy sex toy!🐺🍆🌋
Maybe Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 is growing up, and Merry💋💃 has definitely grown up, although she's a dedicated bookworm 📚. Her nose is always in a book📑. Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 wants to get her out to see the world 🌎. He wants her to see him as more than her brother's friend.
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 decides Merry💋💃 is the one for him. His days as a rake are over! Now he just has to get Merry💃💋 to see he is serious about wanting her for his wife👰. Hang the oath the Spinsters took to be single forever!
Harcourt🐺🍆🌋 will be Merry's own personal rake!
Fun book📑 about a sweet time in England's long history! Recommend!
ARC Received from BS for a Voluntary and Honest Review.
I also got the book📑 with KU.
April 19, 2018
DON'T CONFUSE THESE SPINSTERS WITH YOUR IDEA OF THEM?
5 STARS for Samantha Holt for a entertaining read about a wonderful group of women, who even as part of the Ton were considered wallflowers because of some habits unlike the simpering husband title hunting throng. Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters, is a great book to read with characters that you would wish to be friends with and definitely approve of the men who seem to be attracted to them. This is Spinsters Club Book 1, where we start meeting our Ladies and why they have decided they would live the way they wanted without putting on fairness to try to attract men a " take me the way I am or get lost " kind of thing they would not beg for man's attention (they were usually smarter anyway than some) play coy , act meek and or shy. (pretending to flirt, when they were disgusted by a man)( pretend a need for a man to guide them because they would just be befuddled in life) & last but not least (pretend that as a woman all they needed was a big strong man to take care of them) and life would right itself and carry on. Our enchanting intelligent woman who were many different things, started their club a secret club. I found that a Rake like Harry and the club's idea founder Merry was a wonderful pair to start off Book 1, and was just a hot to read.
WARNING: 17 & UP
5 STARS for Samantha Holt for a entertaining read about a wonderful group of women, who even as part of the Ton were considered wallflowers because of some habits unlike the simpering husband title hunting throng. Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters, is a great book to read with characters that you would wish to be friends with and definitely approve of the men who seem to be attracted to them. This is Spinsters Club Book 1, where we start meeting our Ladies and why they have decided they would live the way they wanted without putting on fairness to try to attract men a " take me the way I am or get lost " kind of thing they would not beg for man's attention (they were usually smarter anyway than some) play coy , act meek and or shy. (pretending to flirt, when they were disgusted by a man)( pretend a need for a man to guide them because they would just be befuddled in life) & last but not least (pretend that as a woman all they needed was a big strong man to take care of them) and life would right itself and carry on. Our enchanting intelligent woman who were many different things, started their club a secret club. I found that a Rake like Harry and the club's idea founder Merry was a wonderful pair to start off Book 1, and was just a hot to read.
WARNING: 17 & UP
April 8, 2018
4.5 Stars
Lady Merry Bradford understands the rules of the Spinsters Club fully, considering it was her idea in the first place. When one of her good friends, Lucy loses her heart to an utter rogue and is ruined forever, she’s determined that the life of a spinster is for her. Thankfully, she’s not alone. Her three dearest friends, the two Arabellas & Sophia have had their share of heartbreak and resolve to join her. Lord Harcourt Easton, the Earl of Langley is Merry’s brother Daniel’s best friend & he’s well known to be quite the rogue at times and she’s hardly the sort to attract the attention of a rake but Harry has loved Merry for some time.
Another delightful read from the author, the story flows so well. The characters are well portrayed & have plenty of depth. Harry & Merry have been friends for years but Harry has fallen hard for Merry & after a kiss Merry can’t get him out of her mind. There are some incidents that worry Harry & he strives to protect the independent Merry whilst also trying to win her. The other members of the Spinsters club & Griff all deserve their HEAs as vowing to remain a spinster is certainly tempting fate
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lady Merry Bradford understands the rules of the Spinsters Club fully, considering it was her idea in the first place. When one of her good friends, Lucy loses her heart to an utter rogue and is ruined forever, she’s determined that the life of a spinster is for her. Thankfully, she’s not alone. Her three dearest friends, the two Arabellas & Sophia have had their share of heartbreak and resolve to join her. Lord Harcourt Easton, the Earl of Langley is Merry’s brother Daniel’s best friend & he’s well known to be quite the rogue at times and she’s hardly the sort to attract the attention of a rake but Harry has loved Merry for some time.
Another delightful read from the author, the story flows so well. The characters are well portrayed & have plenty of depth. Harry & Merry have been friends for years but Harry has fallen hard for Merry & after a kiss Merry can’t get him out of her mind. There are some incidents that worry Harry & he strives to protect the independent Merry whilst also trying to win her. The other members of the Spinsters club & Griff all deserve their HEAs as vowing to remain a spinster is certainly tempting fate
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 17, 2018
This is one of those novels that isn't good, but it isn't bad either. It's pleasant, the characters are pleasant, nothing emotionally draining (or really anything to make you feel anything, although the hero does inspire a few "tingles") happens, and there is a happy ending. I concur with other reviewers regarding the "fizzle" at the end, and the heroine was a bit of a blank slate to me. I never connected with her, probably because she's a poorly executed caricature of a common trope. I think the author was trying to paint her as a late bloomer? She's a book nerd who none of the boys notice, but is secretly super hot under her stays. You know how it goes. Oh, also her dad never loved her, but that's only relevant because maybe it has made her feel like no one can love her, even when they are standing in front of her face and saying, "I love you." (This includes both the hero and the three spinster friends she spends all of her time with). I would say this one is similar to most of the romance novels that just don't do it for me. The plot and story are definitely there, but all the details are executed so badly that it's a waste of a decent story. Kind of a shame, but a good way to be distracted on the commute in to work, and that's valuable enough for me.
April 20, 2018
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters is a lovely romance novels that introduces us to four friends who can not and will not for different reasons conform to society's view and declare they will stay spinsters together.
This story centers on the first spinster Merry and her brother's best friend Harry. The development of Merry's feelings for Harry is slow and sometimes a little naive but in such a sweet manner that we can't but be enchanted by her antics and inner monologue.
Harry on the other hand is very sure in his feelings and those of Merry and he sets out on the path to prove that they will be perfect together. The way he goes about it is sometimes a little arrogant and sometimes very cute too. He is the epitome of the Victorian gentleman - a reformed rake.
The interactions between Merry and her three friends, between Harry and Lord Thornford and a cute guardian dog with exuberant spirit and bad manners makes this book into light and enchanting read. For this is a story how a certain gentleman got his perfect lady!
This story centers on the first spinster Merry and her brother's best friend Harry. The development of Merry's feelings for Harry is slow and sometimes a little naive but in such a sweet manner that we can't but be enchanted by her antics and inner monologue.
Harry on the other hand is very sure in his feelings and those of Merry and he sets out on the path to prove that they will be perfect together. The way he goes about it is sometimes a little arrogant and sometimes very cute too. He is the epitome of the Victorian gentleman - a reformed rake.
The interactions between Merry and her three friends, between Harry and Lord Thornford and a cute guardian dog with exuberant spirit and bad manners makes this book into light and enchanting read. For this is a story how a certain gentleman got his perfect lady!
September 11, 2018
This is a novel with an ending that was abrupt and for the most part, not satisfying. You've got Merry and Harry, long time friends who finally are at the point in their lives where they can make a "match of it." However, Merry has vowed, together with her three friends, that she will remain a spinster. Harry, a reformed rake, is aching to make her his, but can't get passed first base with her due to her loyalty to her friends and a couple of other issues that you really don't learn about until nearly the end of the book. A couple of side stories are really not explored and pretty much make the reader wonder why they were even part of the story since they are not explained and just abandoned by the author. Generally, I like Samantha Holt's books and was looking forward to a satisfying few hours reading this book. But except for a few "shining moments" in this novel, I would say I would not be interested in continuing with this particular series. I gave this a four star rating because at least a couple of the characters in the book made the read worthwhile.
May 28, 2018
A delightfully cute story of love!
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters is the first book in the new series, Spinster’s Club, by Samantha Holt. This story has a good mix of intrigue, romance and humor. The characters were witty and charming while having their insecurities and imperfections while being relatable. I liked that the author didn’t make it easy for the main characters to get their happy ever after. The book has a good story line and well written. The story has good lead-ins for future books with other the other characters. I can’t wait to see the rest of the series on the other spinsters.
Samantha Holt is a talented writer that has given us another entertaining book. This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand-a-lone with the happily-ever-after ending that we come to expect. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a short funny and suspenseful story with a touch of romance mixed in.
Gentlemen Prefer Spinsters is the first book in the new series, Spinster’s Club, by Samantha Holt. This story has a good mix of intrigue, romance and humor. The characters were witty and charming while having their insecurities and imperfections while being relatable. I liked that the author didn’t make it easy for the main characters to get their happy ever after. The book has a good story line and well written. The story has good lead-ins for future books with other the other characters. I can’t wait to see the rest of the series on the other spinsters.
Samantha Holt is a talented writer that has given us another entertaining book. This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand-a-lone with the happily-ever-after ending that we come to expect. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a short funny and suspenseful story with a touch of romance mixed in.
January 10, 2020
I loved it & can see so much more coming from these Spinsters; - maybe Bella & Griff? Four good friends from upstanding families vow to never marry after one of their acquaintances is ruined & the family shipped her off to Ireland. None of them enjoy balls, morning calls or teas, so they will keep one another safe from the rakes & rogues & never marry. Harcourt "Harry" is an Earl & is Merry's older brother's friend & has been for years but all of a sudden Harry sees Merry all grown up & not as Daniel's little sister. He comes to the realization that he will give up his London reputation as a rake to pursue Merry for his wife - he loves her & must keep her safe. Merry can't fall for him - see made vows to her friends to remain a spinster plus Harry is her brother's friend & she has known him for years! Their journey to a HEA has humor, romances, spice & a great supporting cast. I highly recommend this book & cannot wait for Book 2!
April 10, 2018
This is a beautiful historical romance filled with strong characters especially independent women! The love that grew between Harry and Merry was slow but soon wonderfully consuming. Merry showed her love of her friends and the different traumas they endured by the hands of men, as well as her own experiences, to develop The Spinsters Club. She was independent to fault in some aspects by refusing help of any kind though it would be morelogical to accept. She faught long and hard against her attraction and love for Harry, try to keep him “friends zone”. Harry had other plans by being persistent and enduring rejection over and over knowing full well Merry’s love for him. Overall a wonderful read that makes me excited for other books for the other characters in The Spinsters Club.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2022
That’s so very
The writing is okay, but the plot and characters are as dull as old dishwater. Yes, I get it. Unmarried 19 and 20 year old women are decrepit, elderly spinsters, so old that they may as well retire to the countryside to live out the last few months of their completely spent lives hiding from the world that has nothing to offer that they haven’t already seen and experienced. It’s a tragic tale of woe.
In this book, the fmc has read all of the books ever published on Greek culture and mythology. Since she has no other interests, she is done with life and will now spend the twilight of her life re-reading all of the books in original Greek, then create her own translations. As for the other ladies in the Spinster’s Club, they come off as self-pitying scolds who collude in manipulating each other like a particularly unpleasant clique.
The writing is okay, but the plot and characters are as dull as old dishwater. Yes, I get it. Unmarried 19 and 20 year old women are decrepit, elderly spinsters, so old that they may as well retire to the countryside to live out the last few months of their completely spent lives hiding from the world that has nothing to offer that they haven’t already seen and experienced. It’s a tragic tale of woe.
In this book, the fmc has read all of the books ever published on Greek culture and mythology. Since she has no other interests, she is done with life and will now spend the twilight of her life re-reading all of the books in original Greek, then create her own translations. As for the other ladies in the Spinster’s Club, they come off as self-pitying scolds who collude in manipulating each other like a particularly unpleasant clique.
April 10, 2018
Merry and her friends are not the usual kinds of girls who take the London Season by storm, so they form a pact and decide to remain single, rather than risk their hearts and their futures on the kinds of rakes and rogues they are all too familiar with. But Merry hadn't counted on Harry, her older brother's best friend, suddenly seeing her as all grown up while at the same time deciding it's high time he settled down. What follows is a delicate blend of manners and passion as these two try to figure out if they can turn their friendship into something more.
This author has truly mastered the art of the Regency romance. This book is engaging, witty, and much more fun than a typical period love story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This author has truly mastered the art of the Regency romance. This book is engaging, witty, and much more fun than a typical period love story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 10, 2018
A perfect Regency romance!
Samantha Holt has always been a forerunner in Regency romance. In this lighthearted tale a young nineteenth century woman, Merry, decides that she is not going to trust any man after one of her dearest friends is totally ruined by an unscrupulous man. She, therefore, forms The Spinster Club. Her three friends join as well so it is with embarrassment that Merry realises that she is developing feelings for her brother's best friend. Merry has known Lord Harcourt Easton for most of her life but is surprised when he starts courting her, after all she has just decided to remain a spinster!
Unfortunately for Merry, Fate doesn't take much notice of our wishes.
Samantha Holt has always been a forerunner in Regency romance. In this lighthearted tale a young nineteenth century woman, Merry, decides that she is not going to trust any man after one of her dearest friends is totally ruined by an unscrupulous man. She, therefore, forms The Spinster Club. Her three friends join as well so it is with embarrassment that Merry realises that she is developing feelings for her brother's best friend. Merry has known Lord Harcourt Easton for most of her life but is surprised when he starts courting her, after all she has just decided to remain a spinster!
Unfortunately for Merry, Fate doesn't take much notice of our wishes.
June 2, 2020
I own 36 novels by this author and this was just ok. I got tired of the h pretty fast even after she felt something for the H she resisted.
We are led down a path that someone is trying to harm the h and our H is like a knight in shining armor. I won't give spoiler's but.....didn't like how it ended up.
The H and she have been friends for years. I understand how she didn't think he could change his ways being a rake. But, she doesn't see how the things he was doing for her.
We have lovemaking outside of marriage DURING A PARTY full of people - WHAT! Heat level 4 out of 5 described once. Lord's name used in vain once.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and a tad of spice. (ljb)
We are led down a path that someone is trying to harm the h and our H is like a knight in shining armor. I won't give spoiler's but.....didn't like how it ended up.
The H and she have been friends for years. I understand how she didn't think he could change his ways being a rake. But, she doesn't see how the things he was doing for her.
We have lovemaking outside of marriage DURING A PARTY full of people - WHAT! Heat level 4 out of 5 described once. Lord's name used in vain once.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and a tad of spice. (ljb)
April 9, 2018
I really enjoyed this fun and entertaining read. The characters of Merry and Harry are wonderful. You could really feel their attraction and the chemistry is steamy. Some drama and potential threats bring out the protector in Harry. Can he shield Merry and convince her that they are supposed to be together? A engaging and cute plot holds your interest well and the remaining members of the Spinsters club (Sophia and the two Arabella's) are patiently waiting in the wings for their own stories. An excellent read and a terrific start to this series. I'm posting a completely honest, voluntary review after reading this this book.
April 10, 2018
This is sweet, romantic, amusing and entertaining. Harry is confident, charming and determined. Merry is stubborn, headstrong and independent. After years of knowing Merry, Harry finds himself in love with her. His problem is that Merry has decided that being single is more appealing than marriage. When things start to happen that have him thinking that her life is in danger he's determined to keep her safe, and she's determined that it's all in his head. It makes for a romantic yet entertaining storyline. I loved this book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
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