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The Scandal Sheet #4
My Fair Viscount
A new scandal sheet from USA Today Bestseller Jess Michaels!!!
Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune...and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like.
Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse.
Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.
Novella Length
Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune...and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like.
Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse.
Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.
Novella Length
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2019
165 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
126 books1,571 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 5, 2019
3 1/2 stars
I love all things written by Jess Michaels, and while I did enjoy this one, it was definitely not my favorite. Novella-length romances are difficult to pull off because of the amount of time usually needed to form an attachment to the characters, and few authors can manage to make that happen; Ms. Michaels is one of those authors who can and has in past novellas, which may be why my expectations were higher for this book.
The story is about a man (David) who grew up in the hells of London that has come into a title and fortune upon the passing of his father (his father was briefly married to his mother before abandoning them). David would normally want nothing to do with nobs or the ton or any other society restricted by such ridiculous rules that govern behavior, but he does need the money to care for his aging and ailing mother, and it would be a way of gaining some form of revenge against his father as he felt that the man would never have wanted to see him ascend to the title. In order to enter society, he must learn the etiquette he has openly mocked, and the only way to do that is to find a person who knows all the ins and outs of proper behavior.
Rose is a woman whose family fell from grace upon her father's passing, so she needed to find a way to make a living to support herself and her mother. Given the very limited options of work for women, she chose to be a finishing governess and consultant for young ladies entering society. When she receives a call about tutoring a man in etiquette, she cannot possibly accept such a role, especially when she realizes it involves close quarters for weeks with a man who heats her blood like no man before ever has.... right?
What I liked:
--- The story line was pretty original with the person in need of societal grooming being a man instead of a young lady
--- The main characters were likeable
--- The steamy goodness was yummy
What I didn't like as much:
--- There wasn't much lead-up from when they met to when they confessed their attraction to one another; I get that it is a novella, but I needed a little more reason for why they had to have each other to feel like there was true chemistry
--- Epilogue was pretty basic --- could have been more there (ex, it could have been their wedding or they find out they are expecting or something more interesting)
--- Some steamy goodness, but not my usual preferred dosage :)
Overall, a good "quickie" at poolside or to occupy a little time on a rainy day if you are looking for light entertainment.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Chemistry --- 2/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- none
Language --- some (he's from the stews after all)
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
I was provided an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I love all things written by Jess Michaels, and while I did enjoy this one, it was definitely not my favorite. Novella-length romances are difficult to pull off because of the amount of time usually needed to form an attachment to the characters, and few authors can manage to make that happen; Ms. Michaels is one of those authors who can and has in past novellas, which may be why my expectations were higher for this book.
The story is about a man (David) who grew up in the hells of London that has come into a title and fortune upon the passing of his father (his father was briefly married to his mother before abandoning them). David would normally want nothing to do with nobs or the ton or any other society restricted by such ridiculous rules that govern behavior, but he does need the money to care for his aging and ailing mother, and it would be a way of gaining some form of revenge against his father as he felt that the man would never have wanted to see him ascend to the title. In order to enter society, he must learn the etiquette he has openly mocked, and the only way to do that is to find a person who knows all the ins and outs of proper behavior.
Rose is a woman whose family fell from grace upon her father's passing, so she needed to find a way to make a living to support herself and her mother. Given the very limited options of work for women, she chose to be a finishing governess and consultant for young ladies entering society. When she receives a call about tutoring a man in etiquette, she cannot possibly accept such a role, especially when she realizes it involves close quarters for weeks with a man who heats her blood like no man before ever has.... right?
What I liked:
--- The story line was pretty original with the person in need of societal grooming being a man instead of a young lady
--- The main characters were likeable
--- The steamy goodness was yummy
What I didn't like as much:
--- There wasn't much lead-up from when they met to when they confessed their attraction to one another; I get that it is a novella, but I needed a little more reason for why they had to have each other to feel like there was true chemistry
--- Epilogue was pretty basic --- could have been more there (ex, it could have been their wedding or they find out they are expecting or something more interesting)
--- Some steamy goodness, but not my usual preferred dosage :)
Overall, a good "quickie" at poolside or to occupy a little time on a rainy day if you are looking for light entertainment.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Chemistry --- 2/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- none
Language --- some (he's from the stews after all)
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
I was provided an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 5, 2019
❤️❤️❤️1/2
💋💋
An enjoyable, rags to riches transformation.
One I’m sure you’ll enjoy just as I did .
l this book is really quite good , however maybe it’s lacking volume. I know it’s a novella.
It feels as if it were rushed or maybe cut on the production floor .
It’s slightly disjointed,making its flow slightly off in places.
This is a personal opinion, you may feel differently so please don’t let this put you off .
That aside it’s written really well as Jess always does and I love the whole plot of bad boy made good finally, back where he deserves to be .
I’d give this 3 1/2 stars .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
An enjoyable, rags to riches transformation.
One I’m sure you’ll enjoy just as I did .
l this book is really quite good , however maybe it’s lacking volume. I know it’s a novella.
It feels as if it were rushed or maybe cut on the production floor .
It’s slightly disjointed,making its flow slightly off in places.
This is a personal opinion, you may feel differently so please don’t let this put you off .
That aside it’s written really well as Jess always does and I love the whole plot of bad boy made good finally, back where he deserves to be .
I’d give this 3 1/2 stars .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
July 3, 2019
David Shaw is the new Viscount Shaw and totally unprepared for the role. He was raised in the seedier parts of London by his mother after being abandoned by his father. But now his cousin Richard Shaw has found him and insists that he take his position in society, in fact, he has hired a comportment tutor to prepare him.
Rose Higgins teaches comportment to young ladies and is surprised to learn that her new student is a man – a very attractive man. She declines the job, but Richard makes her an outrageous financial offer and promises no one will learn that she was involved with David. The money is too much to pass up and she finally consents.
When Richard introduces them, two things are very clear, one – they are attracted to one another and two – David wants no part of learning to “fit in”.
The book is short and moves along relatively quickly, David and Rose are likeable leads and did have a believable chemistry between them, but there is not a lot of substance to this story, the love scenes felt somewhat gratuitous and there were things that just didn’t make sense to me. I didn’t hate this book, but I would not read this novella again.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Rose Higgins teaches comportment to young ladies and is surprised to learn that her new student is a man – a very attractive man. She declines the job, but Richard makes her an outrageous financial offer and promises no one will learn that she was involved with David. The money is too much to pass up and she finally consents.
When Richard introduces them, two things are very clear, one – they are attracted to one another and two – David wants no part of learning to “fit in”.
The book is short and moves along relatively quickly, David and Rose are likeable leads and did have a believable chemistry between them, but there is not a lot of substance to this story, the love scenes felt somewhat gratuitous and there were things that just didn’t make sense to me. I didn’t hate this book, but I would not read this novella again.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
July 5, 2019
This was a very entertaining story. I liked the characters of David and Rose. They had both had trials in their life and were now supporting their mothers. They had an immediate awareness of their connection and time spent together increased their feelings. However, Rose feels she isn’t suitable to marry a viscount. This was an ideal length for a summer time read or when time is limited. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2021
David Shaw has just inherited his estranged father's fortune and much less welcome title of viscount. Having been raised in London's slums and filthiest streets, David has no manners to speak of and no prayer of being accepted by society. Not that he much cares, but it matters to his gentlemanly cousin, Richard, who proposes a solution David is even less thrilled with: a comportment teacher.
Miss Rose Higgins has made it her business to know everything there is to know about the ways of London high society and has become a success as a teacher of ladies preparing for the season. But she has no interest in teaching the already infamous new Viscount Shaw, especially not in a house with only him and a minimum of servants. Yet when she hears the exorbitant sum Richard is offering for her help, Rose can't afford to turn him down.
Neither Rose nor David find what each had expected in the other and both are rather shocked by the awareness that almost immediately springs up between them. Over the three weeks of his education, the two develop a connection that goes beyond the physical, but both know anything between them must have a finite end date given the strictures of society keeping them apart.
This was a great quick read with refreshing characters who were brave enough to choose each other. Also, shout out to the heroine for not being utterly ridiculous. I'm loving this little series of short reads.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Miss Rose Higgins has made it her business to know everything there is to know about the ways of London high society and has become a success as a teacher of ladies preparing for the season. But she has no interest in teaching the already infamous new Viscount Shaw, especially not in a house with only him and a minimum of servants. Yet when she hears the exorbitant sum Richard is offering for her help, Rose can't afford to turn him down.
Neither Rose nor David find what each had expected in the other and both are rather shocked by the awareness that almost immediately springs up between them. Over the three weeks of his education, the two develop a connection that goes beyond the physical, but both know anything between them must have a finite end date given the strictures of society keeping them apart.
This was a great quick read with refreshing characters who were brave enough to choose each other. Also, shout out to the heroine for not being utterly ridiculous. I'm loving this little series of short reads.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 14, 2019
Clever premise!
A clever slant on an old story where roles are reversed. This time I t's the boy who needs the culturing not the girl. The time is Regency England and a rookery lad, (well, slightly dangerous man really) David Shaw, is turned Viscount. This diamond in the rough needs a makeover. A wonderful ploy that didn't really follow through for me.
Miss Rose Higgins, (not Henry) who brings debutantes up to scratch is hired by the lovely Richard, David's cousin who was to be the Viscount before he did a search and found our rough and ready Davey. Richard is the one to be most admired here.
Of course the two main characters are attracted to each other. But I didn't feel the chemistry, and despite the promise of the premise, things faded away.
A Victory Editing ARC via NetGalley
A clever slant on an old story where roles are reversed. This time I t's the boy who needs the culturing not the girl. The time is Regency England and a rookery lad, (well, slightly dangerous man really) David Shaw, is turned Viscount. This diamond in the rough needs a makeover. A wonderful ploy that didn't really follow through for me.
Miss Rose Higgins, (not Henry) who brings debutantes up to scratch is hired by the lovely Richard, David's cousin who was to be the Viscount before he did a search and found our rough and ready Davey. Richard is the one to be most admired here.
Of course the two main characters are attracted to each other. But I didn't feel the chemistry, and despite the promise of the premise, things faded away.
A Victory Editing ARC via NetGalley
June 20, 2019
This is my third read by Mrs Jess Michaels, and the two previous were the installment 2&3 in this series.
While the other reads left me with mixed feelings, I just loved this one, my only complain was it was too short but never the characters lacked of depth.
This is a reverse spicy retailing of Pygmalion or My Fair Lady with a new found Viscount featuring Eliza Doolittle’s role, and his name, Shaw, a wink to author of the play.
David had not a nice upbringing so when he is given a way to take revenge from the man who is at the origin of his predicament, he accepts the challenge even if he feels as an outsider, like he will never fit in, he is lost in between two worlds. He is a character with whom I sensed a connection, I understood his struggles.
Rose too was so greatly crafted, while she appeared haughty during their first encounter, she was just putting on a mask, she too was betrayed by those who should have protected her but she rose herself and made a living for herself, why she has so much at stake when her feelings deepen in close contact with David.
I adored watching them grow closer, their relationship was one to admire as they were true to themselves, I was heartbroken for them when they had to part way and admired them for their strength, but I also cheered David after he decided to bend his future on the right path.
Despite its shortness, it was a delightful and heartfelt tale of acceptance.
I was provided an advance copy by Netgalley and the publisher Victory Editing Netgalley Co-Op, I also had my own copy purchased. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
While the other reads left me with mixed feelings, I just loved this one, my only complain was it was too short but never the characters lacked of depth.
This is a reverse spicy retailing of Pygmalion or My Fair Lady with a new found Viscount featuring Eliza Doolittle’s role, and his name, Shaw, a wink to author of the play.
David had not a nice upbringing so when he is given a way to take revenge from the man who is at the origin of his predicament, he accepts the challenge even if he feels as an outsider, like he will never fit in, he is lost in between two worlds. He is a character with whom I sensed a connection, I understood his struggles.
Rose too was so greatly crafted, while she appeared haughty during their first encounter, she was just putting on a mask, she too was betrayed by those who should have protected her but she rose herself and made a living for herself, why she has so much at stake when her feelings deepen in close contact with David.
I adored watching them grow closer, their relationship was one to admire as they were true to themselves, I was heartbroken for them when they had to part way and admired them for their strength, but I also cheered David after he decided to bend his future on the right path.
Despite its shortness, it was a delightful and heartfelt tale of acceptance.
I was provided an advance copy by Netgalley and the publisher Victory Editing Netgalley Co-Op, I also had my own copy purchased. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
July 4, 2019
Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin Richard offers a solution.
Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to budding debutantes. When she's approached to help the infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line until she's made an offer she can't refuse.
I found this to be a fun & entertaining short read. There were laugh out moments ie David’s reply as to how he liked his tea! I also loved that David made his debut at the Abernathe ball, so linking the1797 club to this series. Instant attraction, which because they were sequestered in the country quickly meant they fell in love but how could a new scandalous Viscount be with a middle class teacher? The ending was very satisfying. I loved Richard a truly lovely man who deserves his HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to budding debutantes. When she's approached to help the infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line until she's made an offer she can't refuse.
I found this to be a fun & entertaining short read. There were laugh out moments ie David’s reply as to how he liked his tea! I also loved that David made his debut at the Abernathe ball, so linking the1797 club to this series. Instant attraction, which because they were sequestered in the country quickly meant they fell in love but how could a new scandalous Viscount be with a middle class teacher? The ending was very satisfying. I loved Richard a truly lovely man who deserves his HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 11, 2019
My Fair Viscount by Jess Michaels
The Scandal Sheet #4
Pygmalion with a twist...this time Viscount David Shaw is playing Eliza Doolittle getting an education for his debut in society and Rose Higgins is playing Professor Henry Higgins...I had the sound track of My Fair Lady running through my mind as I read this book ;)
What I liked:
* David – true to himself but willing to do whatever it took to provide for himself and his mother
* Rose – I liked her...she was much more than a woman who taught etiquette and deportment
* David & Rose together :)
* Richard – David’s cousin in line for the Viscountcy was a good man who did the right thing...would love to see him find romance in a future book
* The HEA ending
What I didn’t like:
* That so much suffering took place in the lives of Rose, David and David’s mother...long before the story begins.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Passionate Pen for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
The Scandal Sheet #4
Pygmalion with a twist...this time Viscount David Shaw is playing Eliza Doolittle getting an education for his debut in society and Rose Higgins is playing Professor Henry Higgins...I had the sound track of My Fair Lady running through my mind as I read this book ;)
What I liked:
* David – true to himself but willing to do whatever it took to provide for himself and his mother
* Rose – I liked her...she was much more than a woman who taught etiquette and deportment
* David & Rose together :)
* Richard – David’s cousin in line for the Viscountcy was a good man who did the right thing...would love to see him find romance in a future book
* The HEA ending
What I didn’t like:
* That so much suffering took place in the lives of Rose, David and David’s mother...long before the story begins.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Passionate Pen for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
June 24, 2019
OK, I confess. This one was too short! Just when I was getting a grip of the story and the characters, it was already over! I was on the last page! I would have liked to know more about David’s mother.
As far fetched, as the plot of the other novellas in this series (if not more) it did have all the right ingredients to make a romance between David Shaw and Rose Higgins. We have a ‘My Fair Lady’ plot in reverse (minus the ‘Rain in Spain…’) and one just skims through the ‘lessons’ and a few pages later David is just ready to take on the ton. I guess that is the limitation of a novella that Jess Michael (to give her due) manages to overcome slightly as in the previous novellas. It is far fetched but also believable in a way that so few chapters allow. Kudos to the author for that.
David and Rose are believable, etched out well (in so few pages) and quite matter of fact about their ‘affair’ which they embark upon without much pomp and grandeur!! Everything just happens, and one flows into each event effortlessly with the usual sacrifice and ‘I-love-you-but-can’t-marry-you’ nonsense which thankfully is over in a few paragraphs.
If you are one for ‘speed reads’ this series could be for you. If not, just the authors name should be reason enough for you to get yourself one of these.
#MyFairViscount #NetGalley
As far fetched, as the plot of the other novellas in this series (if not more) it did have all the right ingredients to make a romance between David Shaw and Rose Higgins. We have a ‘My Fair Lady’ plot in reverse (minus the ‘Rain in Spain…’) and one just skims through the ‘lessons’ and a few pages later David is just ready to take on the ton. I guess that is the limitation of a novella that Jess Michael (to give her due) manages to overcome slightly as in the previous novellas. It is far fetched but also believable in a way that so few chapters allow. Kudos to the author for that.
David and Rose are believable, etched out well (in so few pages) and quite matter of fact about their ‘affair’ which they embark upon without much pomp and grandeur!! Everything just happens, and one flows into each event effortlessly with the usual sacrifice and ‘I-love-you-but-can’t-marry-you’ nonsense which thankfully is over in a few paragraphs.
If you are one for ‘speed reads’ this series could be for you. If not, just the authors name should be reason enough for you to get yourself one of these.
#MyFairViscount #NetGalley
July 3, 2019
A lovely homage to the playwright (clever) and Pygmalion. I love a rough around the edges hero, but don’t we all? I really like how Ms. Michaels’ allows the heroine to know what she wants and lets her go after it. Shaw and Rose enjoy each other for whatever time they have. My only complaint, it was way too short – I think this could have been a full length novel. But did it detract from my enjoyment of reading? No. This is my favorite of the Scandal Sheet novellas so far.
A complimentary copy was provided by the author through NetGalley.
A complimentary copy was provided by the author through NetGalley.
August 26, 2019
Loved the chemistry between David and Rose. Always enjoy the works of this author. I enjoy the novella at times rather than a full length book, but for this story, I really wanted more of these two. So good, and over too soon. 🧡📚🧡
September 21, 2019
I received a free copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. my fair viscount was a perfect novella. I usually dislike novellas because by nature the length of the story makes the plot feel rushed and incomplete. and while the plot moved quickly the development and connections with the characters was solid. a pleasant, romance filled novella.
August 1, 2019
I'm trying to be fair, but it was oh so like the film - My Fair Lady, with Miss Higgins instead of Henry Higgins, and the rain in Spain etc. I found it a tad boring. 3☆
July 9, 2019
FINAL DECISION: A reversed Pygmalion/My Fair Lady, this novella is short but I enjoyed the intensity between these characters. I wanted more but the length is limiting. It is a nice quick summer read with a great premise and interesting and hot interactions between the hero and heroine.
THE STORY: David Shaw was raised in the rookeries, but when his cousin finds out that David is the rightful heir to his father's title, David needs polishing to take his place in the aristocracy. Miss Rose Higgins is hired to teach David all the polishing and skills he needs. Quickly, however, Rose and David quickly find a lot of heat between them even though David's place in society means that there is no possible future for them.
OPINION: I enjoyed the story although the abbreviated nature meant that I didn't feel that this story had the depth that I prefer. That negative, however, was offset by the great premise (although I would have liked to have seen more of David's progression). These two were so nice together that I found the story in the end satisfying. The book is a quick read, and perfect for an afternoon by the pool.
David grew up in the rookery and made himself a place in the hells of London. When it is discovered that he is the rightful Viscount Shaw, David finds himself in an uncomfortable place. He lacks the manners, understanding and skills needed to navigate in society. The reasons for agreeing to take on the position of Viscount is part of his secrets. David also has things to learn about his own past that chance his life.
Rose is a woman who has taken the mantle of manners and propriety to make a life for herself and to protect herself from her past. When she is unexpectedly asked to teach the new Viscount Shaw what is needed to make his debut, Rose doesn't expect that David will challenge her entire world.
This was an enjoyable story and my only complaint is that I wanted more of these characters.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is novella length story and thus the characters and the story are not as developed as a full length novel.
CONNECTED BOOKS: MAY FAIR VISCOUNT is the fourth book in the Scandal Sheet series. This book can be read as a standalone as the books are only loosely connected.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
THE STORY: David Shaw was raised in the rookeries, but when his cousin finds out that David is the rightful heir to his father's title, David needs polishing to take his place in the aristocracy. Miss Rose Higgins is hired to teach David all the polishing and skills he needs. Quickly, however, Rose and David quickly find a lot of heat between them even though David's place in society means that there is no possible future for them.
OPINION: I enjoyed the story although the abbreviated nature meant that I didn't feel that this story had the depth that I prefer. That negative, however, was offset by the great premise (although I would have liked to have seen more of David's progression). These two were so nice together that I found the story in the end satisfying. The book is a quick read, and perfect for an afternoon by the pool.
David grew up in the rookery and made himself a place in the hells of London. When it is discovered that he is the rightful Viscount Shaw, David finds himself in an uncomfortable place. He lacks the manners, understanding and skills needed to navigate in society. The reasons for agreeing to take on the position of Viscount is part of his secrets. David also has things to learn about his own past that chance his life.
Rose is a woman who has taken the mantle of manners and propriety to make a life for herself and to protect herself from her past. When she is unexpectedly asked to teach the new Viscount Shaw what is needed to make his debut, Rose doesn't expect that David will challenge her entire world.
This was an enjoyable story and my only complaint is that I wanted more of these characters.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is novella length story and thus the characters and the story are not as developed as a full length novel.
CONNECTED BOOKS: MAY FAIR VISCOUNT is the fourth book in the Scandal Sheet series. This book can be read as a standalone as the books are only loosely connected.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
July 9, 2019
My Fair Viscount is the delicious fourth installment of the Jess Michaels series The Scandal Sheet. Haven't read the first three? Why the heck not?! But go ahead and read this one; it stands alone perfectly well. Plus I guarantee you'll want to go back and see what you missed in the first three books!
This story is a twist on "My Fair Lady", with David Shaw as a male Eliza Doolittle and Rose Higgins as a female Henry Higgins. Yes, it's as fun as it sounds. David, who grew up in the rookeries, becomes the new Viscount Shaw when his cousin Richard finds out David is the real heir. Richard is one stand-up man, willing to do what is right and telling David he is the actual heir, in turn losing the Viscountcy himself. Richard hires comportment teacher Rose to help David enter into Society without embarrassing himself and the title. Rose cannot afford to turn down the large sum offered and agrees, quickly wondering what she has gotten herself into.
I loved the relationship between David and Rose. Though Rose tries to resist him, she is drawn to David and cannot withstand his sensual magnetism. When they get together, it's a totally swoonworthy steamfest. It's not just a physical connection, however; you can feel the respect and caring between them. When Richard advises David that he thinks he will be more quickly accepted if he marries someone from a good family, Rose knows it must be over between them. Their hearts break, as did mine. But don't count David out... I wish this story was longer, as there was so much I wanted to know about David and Rose's backgrounds. But this being a novella, things had to progress quickly. It still totally captured my mind and heart. Jess Michaels is a master of sensual novellas. I must have more!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
This story is a twist on "My Fair Lady", with David Shaw as a male Eliza Doolittle and Rose Higgins as a female Henry Higgins. Yes, it's as fun as it sounds. David, who grew up in the rookeries, becomes the new Viscount Shaw when his cousin Richard finds out David is the real heir. Richard is one stand-up man, willing to do what is right and telling David he is the actual heir, in turn losing the Viscountcy himself. Richard hires comportment teacher Rose to help David enter into Society without embarrassing himself and the title. Rose cannot afford to turn down the large sum offered and agrees, quickly wondering what she has gotten herself into.
I loved the relationship between David and Rose. Though Rose tries to resist him, she is drawn to David and cannot withstand his sensual magnetism. When they get together, it's a totally swoonworthy steamfest. It's not just a physical connection, however; you can feel the respect and caring between them. When Richard advises David that he thinks he will be more quickly accepted if he marries someone from a good family, Rose knows it must be over between them. Their hearts break, as did mine. But don't count David out... I wish this story was longer, as there was so much I wanted to know about David and Rose's backgrounds. But this being a novella, things had to progress quickly. It still totally captured my mind and heart. Jess Michaels is a master of sensual novellas. I must have more!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
July 5, 2019
My Fair Viscount is the fourth book in the Scandal Sheet series by Jess Michaels. You do not have to have read the earlier books to fully enjoy this book, although returning readers will see some past favorites make cameos. It is currently scheduled for release on July 9 2019.
Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like. Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse. Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.
My Fair Viscount is a historical romance about two people with some similar emotional scars and doubts about the future. Rose and David are thrown together in unusual circumstances and make the most of it, in all kinds of ways. I loved Rose's pragmatic and realistic personality. David starts of very guarded, with good reason, and liked watching him grown as a character and find a connection with Rose. I enjoyed the journey with this pair, although it did feel very short, and the only obstacle being weak once they admitted their feelings made it feel even shorter. I kept expecting someone from one of their pasts making an appearance to ruin things, or an illness, or some kind of danger to pop up and make things more challenging- but that never happened. The story worked, and was good for what it was, but I felt like it was missing something that would have made it more suspenseful or engaging.
My Fair Viscount is a short but sweet romance with a great deal of heart and a bit of heat.
Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like. Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse. Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.
My Fair Viscount is a historical romance about two people with some similar emotional scars and doubts about the future. Rose and David are thrown together in unusual circumstances and make the most of it, in all kinds of ways. I loved Rose's pragmatic and realistic personality. David starts of very guarded, with good reason, and liked watching him grown as a character and find a connection with Rose. I enjoyed the journey with this pair, although it did feel very short, and the only obstacle being weak once they admitted their feelings made it feel even shorter. I kept expecting someone from one of their pasts making an appearance to ruin things, or an illness, or some kind of danger to pop up and make things more challenging- but that never happened. The story worked, and was good for what it was, but I felt like it was missing something that would have made it more suspenseful or engaging.
My Fair Viscount is a short but sweet romance with a great deal of heart and a bit of heat.
August 11, 2019
I really enjoy Jess Michaels books, and this latest one is no exception. I do miss her longer length work though, as although I have enjoyed the novellas she has written recently, I would like to have longer story with more time for the relationships to develop and issues to be resolved. The premise for this book was great. David Shaw is the son of a peer, but his mother was a lady’s maid. Once his parents relationship was discovered by his grandfather, he forced a separation between them and David has won up in poverty with his mother unable to find another domestic position, and forced to sell herself to survive. His cousin, Richard has discovered his uncle had married David’s mother, and therefore David is the legal heir. He employs Rose Higgins, a deportment teacher, to teach David the skills to be introduced into the ton.
David has a chip on his shoulder, and is determined to take the title because the money will help him look after his mother, and to be revenged on his father, who he believes abandoned them both. He is reluctant and obstructive when he meets Rose, but also attracted to her. They are given a month to share a house and work of David’s deportment, and they soon succumb to their mutual attraction for a short fling. They are increasingly drawn to each other, but all too soon they must part, David to ascend to his rightful place in society, and Rose to go back to he middle class existence as a woman who has to work for a living.
Will David realise what he needs to make him happy before it is too late, and will he give up the idea of revenge to live a happier, more fulfilled life?
Jess Michaels is great at writing nuanced and interesting characters and I always enjoy the unusual situations she comes up with. I really liked both of these characters, and also Richard’s. I felt there was a lot of tenderness and feeling between the two main characters, it was just a bit short for me to be fully satisfying.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
June 24, 2019
Rose Higgins is a comportment teacher for ladies of society. She must eke out a living and it's the best way she knows how. Rose faces her most difficult challenge when she is employed to teach the new Viscount Shaw, David. She wants to refuse, but she just cannot turn down the money offered.
David Shaw cares nothing about the title, but he wants to prove to himself and his deceased father that he is good enough to inherit. He is however, a little perturbed when his cousin employs a lady to give him lessons on how to be a proper gentleman. David immediately feels a connection to Rose, and is certain he can teach her a few things as well. Can he give her up when the time comes? Or will he find the nerve to offer her a place by his side?
Author Jess Michaels never fails to write an entertaining read, be it a full length novel or a novella. MY FAIR VISCOUNT certainly helped me while a way an afternoon. I sympathized with David and Rose. Both have complicated pasts, but sharing and overcoming these things will not be easy. It's such a wonderful thing that they were able to confide in one another. Because of it, they are able to establish an even closer connection. I couldn't have paired a better couple than David and Rose. I look forward to reading Ms. Michaels's next novel.
David Shaw cares nothing about the title, but he wants to prove to himself and his deceased father that he is good enough to inherit. He is however, a little perturbed when his cousin employs a lady to give him lessons on how to be a proper gentleman. David immediately feels a connection to Rose, and is certain he can teach her a few things as well. Can he give her up when the time comes? Or will he find the nerve to offer her a place by his side?
Author Jess Michaels never fails to write an entertaining read, be it a full length novel or a novella. MY FAIR VISCOUNT certainly helped me while a way an afternoon. I sympathized with David and Rose. Both have complicated pasts, but sharing and overcoming these things will not be easy. It's such a wonderful thing that they were able to confide in one another. Because of it, they are able to establish an even closer connection. I couldn't have paired a better couple than David and Rose. I look forward to reading Ms. Michaels's next novel.
July 11, 2019
“Ought,” he repeated. “Always hated that word. A life of shoulds seems awfully empty, Rose. What about what you want?”
My Fair Viscount is book four in the Scandal Sheet series by Jess Michaels. This novella was a fun twist on the Pygmalion story with an etiquette teacher taking on a new viscount as pupil. David Shaw, the new Viscount Shaw, is new to the ton and more at home in the rookeries and hells of London. His cousin Richard, who found him, takes it upon himself to hire Miss Rose Higgins to tutor David in the ways of the ton. The chemistry between David and Rose is instant. Full body chills, in a good way. I really liked how David questioned why certain manners mattered and how Rose admitted that some of the rules were foolish. Even though this book is novella length, the author does a great job of connecting you to the characters and you can see the layers to their personalities. These novellas are so interesting, I feel like I’m seeing small windows into Jess Michaels world. I like how she’s starting to connect her characters and series more. We even get a cameo from a favorite Duke and Duchess in this book. I hope she builds on these stories and characters and maybe we’ll see more of these scandal sheet novellas past the projected series. Love this book, it’s a quick read, but well worth it!
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
My Fair Viscount is book four in the Scandal Sheet series by Jess Michaels. This novella was a fun twist on the Pygmalion story with an etiquette teacher taking on a new viscount as pupil. David Shaw, the new Viscount Shaw, is new to the ton and more at home in the rookeries and hells of London. His cousin Richard, who found him, takes it upon himself to hire Miss Rose Higgins to tutor David in the ways of the ton. The chemistry between David and Rose is instant. Full body chills, in a good way. I really liked how David questioned why certain manners mattered and how Rose admitted that some of the rules were foolish. Even though this book is novella length, the author does a great job of connecting you to the characters and you can see the layers to their personalities. These novellas are so interesting, I feel like I’m seeing small windows into Jess Michaels world. I like how she’s starting to connect her characters and series more. We even get a cameo from a favorite Duke and Duchess in this book. I hope she builds on these stories and characters and maybe we’ll see more of these scandal sheet novellas past the projected series. Love this book, it’s a quick read, but well worth it!
Bookstagram: @hopeless.book.romantic
June 25, 2019
This is another great read from Jess Michaels, this novella features David Shaw and Miss Rose Higgins in a rather exciting rags to riches story. The telling of this story was very good and the story was most certainly very entertaining to read. The characters had a good connection with each other and I loved how we got to see a few older characters from the 1797 club series appear for a brief moment within the story. My only reason not to give this book 5 Stars is that I would have loved more of the back story for both of Rose and David, and maybe that's not possible for a story of this length but I felt that this book would have been so much better at being a full length novel as it left me wanting to find out more of what both of the lead characters had endured in their lives, other than that I really did love the idea behind their love story and so maybe it's just the fact that Jess's writing is alway so good that I find myself always wanting more from this author!
June 21, 2019
David Shaw has just had his life upended when his cousin informs him he's the new Viscount Shaw. Raised in the rookeries, David knows nothing of proper behavior for a member of the ton. Enter Miss Rose Higgins who has been hired to teach him the proper way to do things. These two have an instant spark, but can they work together without giving in to the temptation?
I've read other Ms. Michaels' books and this one is my favorite. Though it is short (too short, I'd love it to be longer), the depth of both David and Rose is well-written. They both have struggled with a difficult childhood and I loved how they revealed deeply held secrets to each other when they finally gave in to their attraction. This is a lovely "My Fair Lady" type plot in reverse and it works.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
I've read other Ms. Michaels' books and this one is my favorite. Though it is short (too short, I'd love it to be longer), the depth of both David and Rose is well-written. They both have struggled with a difficult childhood and I loved how they revealed deeply held secrets to each other when they finally gave in to their attraction. This is a lovely "My Fair Lady" type plot in reverse and it works.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
July 12, 2019
David Shaw is the new Viscount Shaw, he’s been raised in the rougher part of London the Rookeries after his father abandoned him and his mother. He’s just inherited his father's fortune and his title. What he needs is someone to teach him how to get along in society. Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand and she’s quite surprised her new student is a man, but she has no intentions of taking on the new Viscount that is until they make an offer she can’t refuse. David and Rose have an instant connection and attraction, David wants no part of this education and Rose has a reputation to uphold. This is a short novella and it’s hard to get real in-depth with these character, but they’re both independent and loveable. I voluntarily read and reviewed this excellent book.
June 22, 2019
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher. Thank you!
Rags to riches is David Shaw, living his life in the rookeries and now a viscount. His cousin knows he needs to get his ready to enter society and who better to assist than someone who prepares others. Enter Rose Higgins, a woman who teaches comportment to ladies entering society. The offer to make David acceptable to society is too good to resist. Yet, neither expected for their hearts to be involved. Both have difficult pasts, but have overcome them. Still, they are separated by their social classes and know nothing can come out of it, but cannot deny the passion that exists between them. Will the son commit the sins of the father?
Rags to riches is David Shaw, living his life in the rookeries and now a viscount. His cousin knows he needs to get his ready to enter society and who better to assist than someone who prepares others. Enter Rose Higgins, a woman who teaches comportment to ladies entering society. The offer to make David acceptable to society is too good to resist. Yet, neither expected for their hearts to be involved. Both have difficult pasts, but have overcome them. Still, they are separated by their social classes and know nothing can come out of it, but cannot deny the passion that exists between them. Will the son commit the sins of the father?
July 11, 2019
Being the honest man he was, Richard Shaw found out there was another heir beside him that should take the title of Viscount. So he searched and found David Shaw, a man who had practically grown up in the rookeries and was about as polished as rough piece of granite! Richard signed him up for comportmant classes with Rose Higgins, who had great reputation but feels she cannot help a man. But she became swayed with a large monetary amount would be paid. Of course, money cannot buy everything and such is when David and Rose meet. He wants not part of learning to be "polished", although there is an instant attraction between them! A fun story, although it seemed to go quickly but you will want to see if the unpolished man can become a part of society
July 18, 2019
This short-but-sweet tale tells the story of David and Rose. David is the legitimate son of a “Bachelor Viscount”, who was actually married to David’s mother. Now, with the viscount dead, David has come into his title, ousting the nephew, Richard, who was previously believed to be the heir. Richard accepts his cousin and prepares to ready him for his society debut by hiring Rose, a manners coach. Although Rose usually works to polish young women, she is the ideal tutor for David. In more ways than one.
I’m hoping that Michaels will write Richard’s story. I look forward to understanding more of his motivations and character!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m hoping that Michaels will write Richard’s story. I look forward to understanding more of his motivations and character!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 14, 2019
My Fair Viscount by Jess Michaels is book 4 in The Scandal Sheet Series. This is the story of Rose Higgins and David Shaw. I have read the previous books, but feel you could make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
David has inherited his father's title but he knows he doesn't have the town's training for it since he was raised as normal titled children. Rose teaches to ladies things that they need to know and is very good at it to help them in society. So when she is approached to help Davids she isn't on board until she is giving something she can't turn down. They have a instant connection that neither can deny for long.
David has inherited his father's title but he knows he doesn't have the town's training for it since he was raised as normal titled children. Rose teaches to ladies things that they need to know and is very good at it to help them in society. So when she is approached to help Davids she isn't on board until she is giving something she can't turn down. They have a instant connection that neither can deny for long.
July 11, 2019
If you guys like my fair lady, you will definitely love this book. This reversal in the roles, that why its called my fair viscount. Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. He has a lot of rough edge. His cousin hires Miss Rose Higgins to teach his manner and be part of the ton. There is alot of heat and attraction between these two players especially when they are left alone for three weeks.
This is a must read for Jess Michaels. Please read it!
This is a must read for Jess Michaels. Please read it!
July 12, 2019
A quick and fun rewrite of Pygmalion. Miss Rose Higgins is engaged to teach a new member of the ton, David Shaw, the proprieties. David was raised in the slums of London but has just learned he's the new Viscount as his father married his mother who was a chambermaid. He's less than enthusiastic about this project until he sets his sight on Rose.
Rose and David are both likable in their own way. This is one story that might have been better if it was a full-length book; it suffers from not giving more depth to the two lead characters. Still, it's a charming read.
Rose and David are both likable in their own way. This is one story that might have been better if it was a full-length book; it suffers from not giving more depth to the two lead characters. Still, it's a charming read.
June 21, 2019
3.5 stars. David was raised in the hells of London and everyone is surprised to learn he is true heir to his viscount father. Rose is hired to make his behavior more polished. It’s to be done in secret so while hidden away, they fall in love.
Another great story to this series. The romance is hot as always. Can’t wait for the next one.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley.
Another great story to this series. The romance is hot as always. Can’t wait for the next one.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley.
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