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The Rogue Files #5
The Duke's Stolen Bride
An urgent dilemma…
To save her impoverished family, Marian Langley will become a mistress. But she will not be just any mistress. Marian intends to become so skilled, so coveted, that she can set her own terms, retaining control over her body and her fate. Only one problem remains: finding a tutor…
A scandalous solution…
Other men deprive themselves of pleasure for propriety's sake. Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, would much rather be depraved. He slakes his desires with professionals who ask nothing of him but his coin. Marian's proposal—that he train her without taking her virtue—is an intriguing diversion, until their lessons in seduction spin out of control.
And a most unlikely duchess…
When Marian is blackmailed into engagement by a man she despises, Nate impulsively steals her away. Though he never intended to take a wife, he can't tolerate the idea of Marian forfeiting her freedom to another. But can he bear to give her what she demands—a real marriage?
To save her impoverished family, Marian Langley will become a mistress. But she will not be just any mistress. Marian intends to become so skilled, so coveted, that she can set her own terms, retaining control over her body and her fate. Only one problem remains: finding a tutor…
A scandalous solution…
Other men deprive themselves of pleasure for propriety's sake. Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, would much rather be depraved. He slakes his desires with professionals who ask nothing of him but his coin. Marian's proposal—that he train her without taking her virtue—is an intriguing diversion, until their lessons in seduction spin out of control.
And a most unlikely duchess…
When Marian is blackmailed into engagement by a man she despises, Nate impulsively steals her away. Though he never intended to take a wife, he can't tolerate the idea of Marian forfeiting her freedom to another. But can he bear to give her what she demands—a real marriage?
355 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 22, 2019
727 people are currently reading
3085 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Jordan
83 books8,993 followersPseudonym:
Sharie Kohler
Sophie Jordan took her adolescent daydreaming one step further and penned her first historical romance in the back of her high school Spanish class. This passion led her to pursue a degree in English and History.
A brief stint in law school taught her that case law was not nearly as interesting as literature - teaching English seemed the natural recourse. After several years teaching high school students to love Antigone, Sophie resigned with the birth of her first child and decided it was time to pursue the long-held dream of writing.
In less than three years, her first book, Once Upon A Wedding Night, a 2006 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Nominee for Best First Historical, hit book shelves. Her second novel, Too Wicked To Tame, released in March 2007 with a bang, landing on the USA Today Bestseller's List.
Sharie Kohler
Sophie Jordan took her adolescent daydreaming one step further and penned her first historical romance in the back of her high school Spanish class. This passion led her to pursue a degree in English and History.
A brief stint in law school taught her that case law was not nearly as interesting as literature - teaching English seemed the natural recourse. After several years teaching high school students to love Antigone, Sophie resigned with the birth of her first child and decided it was time to pursue the long-held dream of writing.
In less than three years, her first book, Once Upon A Wedding Night, a 2006 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Nominee for Best First Historical, hit book shelves. Her second novel, Too Wicked To Tame, released in March 2007 with a bang, landing on the USA Today Bestseller's List.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
March 5, 2024
I was in the middle of a dreadful read, and I needed a diversion. Digging through my towering TBR pile, I came across this gem. The silly cover and laughable title both promises to at least offer some respite from my current predicament, and hopefully I'll get a bit of steamy fun out of it too.
Marian has been in dire financial means ever since the passing of her father. She has to find some way to make money and take care of her younger siblings. So she comes up with the idea of becoming a high-end mistress, but she needs someone to show her the ropes. And who would make a better tutor than the depraved Duke of Warrington?
I know, you snorted at that ridiculous premise. I did too. But the story surprised me in all the best ways. It was entertaining, steamy, and definitely a bit hammed up. And it has one of my favorite things from this genre: a strong female lead. Marian is smart, resourceful, and determined to make her way, even though she knows that her choices are limited. I felt for her and could not help but cheer her on.
This isn't a love story for the ages or anything. It's insta-love at its best, or more accurately, insta-lust. If I'm rating it in the the strictest sense, this is more of a 3.5 stars since it wasn't particularly memorable, but it was such a fun, lighthearted way to spend a few hours, I'm going to bump it up to 4 stars.
I always mean to read more Regency romances, but I just never get around to them. In total, I think I've only read a handful so far, and it's clear I'm missing out. Please let me know if you have any favorites I should try.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
Marian has been in dire financial means ever since the passing of her father. She has to find some way to make money and take care of her younger siblings. So she comes up with the idea of becoming a high-end mistress, but she needs someone to show her the ropes. And who would make a better tutor than the depraved Duke of Warrington?
I know, you snorted at that ridiculous premise. I did too. But the story surprised me in all the best ways. It was entertaining, steamy, and definitely a bit hammed up. And it has one of my favorite things from this genre: a strong female lead. Marian is smart, resourceful, and determined to make her way, even though she knows that her choices are limited. I felt for her and could not help but cheer her on.
This isn't a love story for the ages or anything. It's insta-love at its best, or more accurately, insta-lust. If I'm rating it in the the strictest sense, this is more of a 3.5 stars since it wasn't particularly memorable, but it was such a fun, lighthearted way to spend a few hours, I'm going to bump it up to 4 stars.
I always mean to read more Regency romances, but I just never get around to them. In total, I think I've only read a handful so far, and it's clear I'm missing out. Please let me know if you have any favorites I should try.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
March 4, 2024
2.5⭐️ ”This is where we talk, then?”
Not so much an historical romance as an instalust costume drama.
The line above was spoken by the MMC at 77%. Seriously, don’t expect any conversations. As for love, Nate’s epiphany was still to come, arriving with a wave of a cosmic magic wand.
Of course Jordan was the wielder of La Wand. Logic never had a fighting chance in this story. There were so many plot holes, I feared my Kindle would transform into a doily.
Still, this was an easy read, and the spicy scenes were 🔥. No complaints… well maybe more variety?
I probably would have raised the rating to three full stars if the villain had been treated differently.
Not so much an historical romance as an instalust costume drama.
The line above was spoken by the MMC at 77%. Seriously, don’t expect any conversations. As for love, Nate’s epiphany was still to come, arriving with a wave of a cosmic magic wand.
Of course Jordan was the wielder of La Wand. Logic never had a fighting chance in this story. There were so many plot holes, I feared my Kindle would transform into a doily.
Still, this was an easy read, and the spicy scenes were 🔥. No complaints… well maybe more variety?
I probably would have raised the rating to three full stars if the villain had been treated differently.
September 15, 2021
3.5 stars
This one is my least favorite of the series so far, but only because I still felt a little disconnected from the hero and would have loved more time getting to know him. I loved, though, that this is a class difference romance and how the hero gave the heroine lessons in seduction so that she could become a courtesan to support her family. I loved how protective of her family she was and how she discovered a whole new side of herself when she was with the duke. This was short and fast and super fun to read, which is typical of Sophie Jordan. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
This one is my least favorite of the series so far, but only because I still felt a little disconnected from the hero and would have loved more time getting to know him. I loved, though, that this is a class difference romance and how the hero gave the heroine lessons in seduction so that she could become a courtesan to support her family. I loved how protective of her family she was and how she discovered a whole new side of herself when she was with the duke. This was short and fast and super fun to read, which is typical of Sophie Jordan. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
August 11, 2021
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was cute but not quite as good as it could’ve been IMO. It had a fun premise but the execution fell a little flat. The ending was way too rushed and I was frustrated that we didn’t get hardly any time with them as an actual outed couple. Way too many unanswered questions in the end and they barely share “ILYs” right before the epilogue. Bummer.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Marian and Nate’s story. Marian keeps bumping into the “depraved duke” in embarrassing situations and Nate is annoyed but intrigued by the odd country girl. When Marian’s sister casually mentions the benefits of being a mistress and after avoiding an unsavory proposal, Marian decides that will be the answer to their impoverished lives. After talking with a rumored courtesan, Marian gets the idea to practice with a man to become a great courtesan herself and Nate is just the man. Nate doesn’t do relationships after his wife died in childbirth and while he is intrigued by the odd girl’s proposition, he isn’t quite sure how he feels about it all. There is some back and forth, some sexy times, and some suspenseful moments…and they get their HEA.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Marian and Nate in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Nate. I liked how he came to care about the h even though he didn’t want to.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Marian. I liked her strength and bravery.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in an alright place where I would call it a HEA ending (while grumbling because it wasn’t nearly enough) .
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Overall Opinion: This was cute but not quite as good as it could’ve been IMO. It had a fun premise but the execution fell a little flat. The ending was way too rushed and I was frustrated that we didn’t get hardly any time with them as an actual outed couple. Way too many unanswered questions in the end and they barely share “ILYs” right before the epilogue. Bummer.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Marian and Nate’s story. Marian keeps bumping into the “depraved duke” in embarrassing situations and Nate is annoyed but intrigued by the odd country girl. When Marian’s sister casually mentions the benefits of being a mistress and after avoiding an unsavory proposal, Marian decides that will be the answer to their impoverished lives. After talking with a rumored courtesan, Marian gets the idea to practice with a man to become a great courtesan herself and Nate is just the man. Nate doesn’t do relationships after his wife died in childbirth and while he is intrigued by the odd girl’s proposition, he isn’t quite sure how he feels about it all. There is some back and forth, some sexy times, and some suspenseful moments…and they get their HEA.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Marian and Nate in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Nate. I liked how he came to care about the h even though he didn’t want to.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Marian. I liked her strength and bravery.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in an alright place where I would call it a HEA ending (while grumbling because it wasn’t nearly enough) .
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
September 11, 2021
There is nothing even remotely romantic about this book. I kept going, hoping something would change, but nope. It's lust and lack of choice that drives this book.
Desperate to keep her brother in school, give her sisters a chance in the world, and pay off her father's debts, Marian Langley asks the Duke of Warrington to train her in sexual acts so she can become a courtesan. Now, I get that Marian is desperate and proud, but for some reason, this option is higher on her list than begging for help from her former charge, Lady Clara, who we're told (towards the end for some reason) is fond of Marian and would have helped. This doesn't make the slightest bit of sense. Sure, her siblings would have had money, but they never would have been accepted into respectable society, right? Marian's idea is brought on by the "widow" in town everyone knows used to be a courtesan, but that's hardly the same situation. An older, retired courtesan is a different thing than a new, young, working one.
Anyway, this plot relies entirely on Marian skipping at least one sensible decision first so already we're on shaky ground.
Then there's Nate, the duke. He's emotionally cut off, which I've ranted about before (Project Duchess if you're wondering). Other than that, he has zero personality or anything that makes me like him. It's a sob story background--neglectful parents, bullied by his classmates, dead wife who only wanted his title--in place of actual characterization. He agrees to tutor her only after he's given a dare (by someone who works for him; another side note, these characters don't have actual friends. Nate explicitly says that, and we never see any with Marian.)
So he tutors her. And she's just so gorgeous in bed, he kicks her out but then he can't stay away.
*rolls eyes*
This book then comes to its crashing, awful unsatisfactory conclusion because character development is for characters with personality and romance development is for actual romances. It literally doesn't feel like we're in the final stretches, by the way. I was seriously disturbed when I realized the story was nearly over. It was pretty easy to read, so I was just going along and not paying attention to the progress bar. I should have, I might have realized I should have tempered my expectations a few chapters ago. There is nothing romantic about the end--Marian is caught between three equally awful choices. And yes, I consider Nate an awful choice since he never showed a care about her. And then all of a sudden, they're in love, and we have a happy epilogue, and I'm left wondering who the fuck read this and went, "yep, sounds like a good romance to me." Sex and attraction are not equivalent to love, and I don't know what's appealing about a man who takes advantage of a woman in a bad predicament.
Desperate to keep her brother in school, give her sisters a chance in the world, and pay off her father's debts, Marian Langley asks the Duke of Warrington to train her in sexual acts so she can become a courtesan. Now, I get that Marian is desperate and proud, but for some reason, this option is higher on her list than begging for help from her former charge, Lady Clara, who we're told (towards the end for some reason) is fond of Marian and would have helped. This doesn't make the slightest bit of sense. Sure, her siblings would have had money, but they never would have been accepted into respectable society, right? Marian's idea is brought on by the "widow" in town everyone knows used to be a courtesan, but that's hardly the same situation. An older, retired courtesan is a different thing than a new, young, working one.
Anyway, this plot relies entirely on Marian skipping at least one sensible decision first so already we're on shaky ground.
Then there's Nate, the duke. He's emotionally cut off, which I've ranted about before (Project Duchess if you're wondering). Other than that, he has zero personality or anything that makes me like him. It's a sob story background--neglectful parents, bullied by his classmates, dead wife who only wanted his title--in place of actual characterization. He agrees to tutor her only after he's given a dare (by someone who works for him; another side note, these characters don't have actual friends. Nate explicitly says that, and we never see any with Marian.)
So he tutors her. And she's just so gorgeous in bed, he kicks her out but then he can't stay away.
*rolls eyes*
This book then comes to its crashing, awful unsatisfactory conclusion because character development is for characters with personality and romance development is for actual romances. It literally doesn't feel like we're in the final stretches, by the way. I was seriously disturbed when I realized the story was nearly over. It was pretty easy to read, so I was just going along and not paying attention to the progress bar. I should have, I might have realized I should have tempered my expectations a few chapters ago. There is nothing romantic about the end--Marian is caught between three equally awful choices. And yes, I consider Nate an awful choice since he never showed a care about her. And then all of a sudden, they're in love, and we have a happy epilogue, and I'm left wondering who the fuck read this and went, "yep, sounds like a good romance to me." Sex and attraction are not equivalent to love, and I don't know what's appealing about a man who takes advantage of a woman in a bad predicament.
October 14, 2019
I’ve enjoyed the other books in this series and I loved this premise.
I really liked Marian and Nate. She’s looking for a way out and is super loyal to her family. He’s bored and needs a challenge. Together they have loads of chemistry, but not much of a connection. I liked Marian’s sisters and I was intrigued about Nate’s friend, but we didn’t get to know too much about anyone else.
Plot wise it was good. I would have liked more banter and conversation. They were a match physically, but didn’t really talk too much. The “lessons” quickly evolved into a relationship, but their interactions didn’t and it felt like there were plot threads that were introduced for no reason. The conflict was resolved fairly quickly and even though I wanted a lot more from the epilogue, it was good.
Overall, it was quick read with characters I really liked. If there’s another book in this series, I’ll be reading it.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I really liked Marian and Nate. She’s looking for a way out and is super loyal to her family. He’s bored and needs a challenge. Together they have loads of chemistry, but not much of a connection. I liked Marian’s sisters and I was intrigued about Nate’s friend, but we didn’t get to know too much about anyone else.
Plot wise it was good. I would have liked more banter and conversation. They were a match physically, but didn’t really talk too much. The “lessons” quickly evolved into a relationship, but their interactions didn’t and it felt like there were plot threads that were introduced for no reason. The conflict was resolved fairly quickly and even though I wanted a lot more from the epilogue, it was good.
Overall, it was quick read with characters I really liked. If there’s another book in this series, I’ll be reading it.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
May 1, 2020
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
The Duke's Stolen Bride is the fifth installment in the series and I have had a fun time with these books. I was really pleased to see that this one was available at my local library. I just adored this one in many ways, and even though it had one of my least favorite themes/tropes in it (heroine learning to be a mistress) Sophia Jordan did a great job in creating this scenario and making it seem realistic and relatable.
Our heroine, Marian, is determined to save her family. Her father passed away and left them destitute. And now they are barely making it by, with little food and warmth in their home. Her sisters are doing what they can but its just not enough for what they need to survive. When she encounters a Duke at a inn who saves her in a round about way, she is intrigued. So she goes to him, knowing he is a reputable rake and has experience in making money on the back. She wants to be a courtesan, never had a desire for marriage and wants to not worry about money. So she goes to him to tutor her in lessons....but these lessons soon turn into something deeper and an attachment forms between them both....one that could lead to love and marriage and family, a path Marian never expected to desire until she found the right man
The Duke's Stolen Bride was such a fun story and so engaging. I just sped through this story and boy its been a while since I have read a print book but it was fun to delve into a printed library book (and yes I got one since my library is offering curbside service now) and I didn't know what to expect with this story. To be honest the whole tutoring mistress lessons isn't my favorite theme in historical romance to be honest. And the plot was pretty predictable at times but I did love seeing a bit of suspense at the end of the story. Really added something different to the story that really needed it.
It was quite interesting the match that Nate and Marian made together. Nate is a bit of a Mr. Darcy in some ways but he tends to shield his character at times. But as we delve more into his character you see so much more respect begin to form about him. Marian was a character I did like. I loved how much she loved her sisters and what she was willing to do to protect them and make sure they were taken care of even at the cost of herself.
Overall I found The Duke's Stolen Bride to be a very interesting story that had a unique dynamic and a stunning sensuality to be endeared with
The Duke's Stolen Bride is the fifth installment in the series and I have had a fun time with these books. I was really pleased to see that this one was available at my local library. I just adored this one in many ways, and even though it had one of my least favorite themes/tropes in it (heroine learning to be a mistress) Sophia Jordan did a great job in creating this scenario and making it seem realistic and relatable.
Our heroine, Marian, is determined to save her family. Her father passed away and left them destitute. And now they are barely making it by, with little food and warmth in their home. Her sisters are doing what they can but its just not enough for what they need to survive. When she encounters a Duke at a inn who saves her in a round about way, she is intrigued. So she goes to him, knowing he is a reputable rake and has experience in making money on the back. She wants to be a courtesan, never had a desire for marriage and wants to not worry about money. So she goes to him to tutor her in lessons....but these lessons soon turn into something deeper and an attachment forms between them both....one that could lead to love and marriage and family, a path Marian never expected to desire until she found the right man
The Duke's Stolen Bride was such a fun story and so engaging. I just sped through this story and boy its been a while since I have read a print book but it was fun to delve into a printed library book (and yes I got one since my library is offering curbside service now) and I didn't know what to expect with this story. To be honest the whole tutoring mistress lessons isn't my favorite theme in historical romance to be honest. And the plot was pretty predictable at times but I did love seeing a bit of suspense at the end of the story. Really added something different to the story that really needed it.
It was quite interesting the match that Nate and Marian made together. Nate is a bit of a Mr. Darcy in some ways but he tends to shield his character at times. But as we delve more into his character you see so much more respect begin to form about him. Marian was a character I did like. I loved how much she loved her sisters and what she was willing to do to protect them and make sure they were taken care of even at the cost of herself.
Overall I found The Duke's Stolen Bride to be a very interesting story that had a unique dynamic and a stunning sensuality to be endeared with
December 10, 2022
(Forgot to post my review for this. Oops.)
I enjoyed this. This had the "teach me passion" trope which I love and always on the lookout for. The heroine Marian wants to become a mistress/courtesan and asks the rake hero Nate to give her lessons in sex and seduction. Naturally that all goes up in smoke the minute these two get in close quarters and connect physically. First, I thought this was pretty hot in the steam department. It was spicy, sweet and empowering. The scene where he teaches her how to masturbate and pleasure herself was really sexy and so sensual. However, I did think this suffered a bit from insta-lust with how quickly these two went from zero to 100 in thirsting just after their first sexual encounter. I do wish Jordan paced out her plot better in this because it felt very uneven and almost like it missed a step in between. For instance you have your couple going from virtual strangers who butt heads to the heroine panting and grinding on his lap completely ravenous not five minutes into the very first lesson. That honestly gave me whiplash how quick that transition happened considering the heroine's background. Marian's inhibitions and hesitation seemed to fall to the wayside a little too quickly which I felt was OOC for her. While I enjoyed seeing her discover her sexual side and enjoying sex I needed a little more hesitation and slow build up there given how sheltered she is.
Another instance, after just their first lesson Nate is already pushing her away and trying to "protect her" which felt extremely premature and out of the blue cause again, they barely know each other. I needed a little more build up for him to react this way, a step felt missing. While I appreciated the emotional angst, I felt this beat was played way too early. He barely knows her and already wants to push her away to protect her and himself cause feelings? And the marriage of convenience doesn't even come into play until like the 90% mark which I felt was really late. That needed to happen sooner so the couple could get to know each other better. Sophie Jordan had her couple connecting physically and emotionally but not really mentally if that makes sense. I mean Marian doesn't find out that the hero doesn't want to have kids and why after stealing her away for a quickie marriage in Gretna Green. Which I thought was a really dick move on his part. Honestly if Marian kicked him in the balls I would have cheered her on. My heart really broke for her and I found it so frustrating that she didn't even know any of his backstory till the very end. I found that so bizarre. Which is an overall issue I've had with SJ's writing. It's not consistent or always fleshed out to it's full potential. She's always got these great zany plot ideas but the delivery is shaky and not always sticking the landing unfortunately. Here I felt you really got to know the heroine and live in her skin and struggles where as the hero felt a little underdeveloped in comparison.
Marian does not want to marry and wants to live an independent life but her and her 2 younger sisters and brother are near poverty and in debt financially after their father passed leaving all the responsibility on Marian's shoulders. The fact that the heroine wasn't desperate to marry and wanted to become a courtesan and learn about sex I thought was fun and refreshing. Now why the subject of ruin from said scandalous profession is never brought up or even considered is a whole different conversation. But I overlooked it. I mean she keeps wanting to get her sisters respectable marriages but how she thinks becoming a successful mistress is gonna do that with zero scandal or ruin for her family is a mystery to me considering Marian herself is an unmarried young woman herself. If this wasn't a SJ book I would call this a plot hole. Marian kept saying she still has her reputation to protect and “public ruin was not an option” while she was sneaking off to meet the Duke for her lessons. So how would ruin not happen when she became a mistress? *crickets* But it’s a SJ book so you just go with it. Lack of logic to her plots and suspending all belief is a given for her stories.
But I liked Marian and I understood her. My heart broke for her in how she did everything to survive and willing to sacrifice her own happiness to make sure her siblings' futures are secured. I found her brave and selfless. She calls herself selfish for not wanting to marry to save her family and I didn't really see that. She already sacrificed so much and her only option for marriage is the town butcher who is a complete nasty creep.
All in all, I enjoyed this for what it was. Some parts were shaky but the couple's chemistry and sexy times is probably what carried it through for me.
I enjoyed this. This had the "teach me passion" trope which I love and always on the lookout for. The heroine Marian wants to become a mistress/courtesan and asks the rake hero Nate to give her lessons in sex and seduction. Naturally that all goes up in smoke the minute these two get in close quarters and connect physically. First, I thought this was pretty hot in the steam department. It was spicy, sweet and empowering. The scene where he teaches her how to masturbate and pleasure herself was really sexy and so sensual. However, I did think this suffered a bit from insta-lust with how quickly these two went from zero to 100 in thirsting just after their first sexual encounter. I do wish Jordan paced out her plot better in this because it felt very uneven and almost like it missed a step in between. For instance you have your couple going from virtual strangers who butt heads to the heroine panting and grinding on his lap completely ravenous not five minutes into the very first lesson. That honestly gave me whiplash how quick that transition happened considering the heroine's background. Marian's inhibitions and hesitation seemed to fall to the wayside a little too quickly which I felt was OOC for her. While I enjoyed seeing her discover her sexual side and enjoying sex I needed a little more hesitation and slow build up there given how sheltered she is.
Another instance, after just their first lesson Nate is already pushing her away and trying to "protect her" which felt extremely premature and out of the blue cause again, they barely know each other. I needed a little more build up for him to react this way, a step felt missing. While I appreciated the emotional angst, I felt this beat was played way too early. He barely knows her and already wants to push her away to protect her and himself cause feelings? And the marriage of convenience doesn't even come into play until like the 90% mark which I felt was really late. That needed to happen sooner so the couple could get to know each other better. Sophie Jordan had her couple connecting physically and emotionally but not really mentally if that makes sense. I mean Marian doesn't find out that the hero doesn't want to have kids and why after stealing her away for a quickie marriage in Gretna Green. Which I thought was a really dick move on his part. Honestly if Marian kicked him in the balls I would have cheered her on. My heart really broke for her and I found it so frustrating that she didn't even know any of his backstory till the very end. I found that so bizarre. Which is an overall issue I've had with SJ's writing. It's not consistent or always fleshed out to it's full potential. She's always got these great zany plot ideas but the delivery is shaky and not always sticking the landing unfortunately. Here I felt you really got to know the heroine and live in her skin and struggles where as the hero felt a little underdeveloped in comparison.
Marian does not want to marry and wants to live an independent life but her and her 2 younger sisters and brother are near poverty and in debt financially after their father passed leaving all the responsibility on Marian's shoulders. The fact that the heroine wasn't desperate to marry and wanted to become a courtesan and learn about sex I thought was fun and refreshing. Now why the subject of ruin from said scandalous profession is never brought up or even considered is a whole different conversation. But I overlooked it. I mean she keeps wanting to get her sisters respectable marriages but how she thinks becoming a successful mistress is gonna do that with zero scandal or ruin for her family is a mystery to me considering Marian herself is an unmarried young woman herself. If this wasn't a SJ book I would call this a plot hole. Marian kept saying she still has her reputation to protect and “public ruin was not an option” while she was sneaking off to meet the Duke for her lessons. So how would ruin not happen when she became a mistress? *crickets* But it’s a SJ book so you just go with it. Lack of logic to her plots and suspending all belief is a given for her stories.
But I liked Marian and I understood her. My heart broke for her in how she did everything to survive and willing to sacrifice her own happiness to make sure her siblings' futures are secured. I found her brave and selfless. She calls herself selfish for not wanting to marry to save her family and I didn't really see that. She already sacrificed so much and her only option for marriage is the town butcher who is a complete nasty creep.
All in all, I enjoyed this for what it was. Some parts were shaky but the couple's chemistry and sexy times is probably what carried it through for me.
January 1, 2023
After Marion Langley's father's death, she and her sisters are on the brink of becoming impoverished. She approaches a former courtesan about how to become a mistress...someone that could command a high price and have her choice of lovers. But what she really needs is a "tutor." Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, has inherited a property on the outskirts of Marion's village. He mostly keeps to himself and brings in women to fulfill his desires. When Marian's makes an outrageous proposal (that he train her without taking her virginity), their lessons soon spin out of control.
This is the fifth book in The Rogue Files series, but can also be considered a new series for the Langley Sisters.
I will say that I had one issue with the book and that’s that I dislike not asking for help as a plot device. Obviously the heroine needs to be in dire straits to approach the hero with this scandalous proposal but, in reality, she could have turned to her friend (heroine of book 4) for help. But, It’s the first book to really excite me in a while. It was hot and steamy and I didn’t want it to be over.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Class Difference, Lessons, Ruined
Steam: 5
This is the fifth book in The Rogue Files series, but can also be considered a new series for the Langley Sisters.
I will say that I had one issue with the book and that’s that I dislike not asking for help as a plot device. Obviously the heroine needs to be in dire straits to approach the hero with this scandalous proposal but, in reality, she could have turned to her friend (heroine of book 4) for help. But, It’s the first book to really excite me in a while. It was hot and steamy and I didn’t want it to be over.
Tropes: Working Heroine, Class Difference, Lessons, Ruined
Steam: 5
November 10, 2019
This is a well written historical romance novel with likable, engaging characters, a heart warming romance, and a happily ever after ending. It is an excellent addition to Ms. Jordan's "Rogue Files" series.
March 21, 2020
Going to give this a 4/5 stars because it was too short towards the end!!! I didn't feel like the couple had been with each other enough to really grow that kind of love. But i really loved the story overall.
December 28, 2020
There’s a line Mike says in MST3K’s The Screaming Skull that perfectly sums up this book: “Flat, drab passion meanders across the screen!” The whole time I was reading, my face looked like I was stuck on a train in the middle of summer surrounded by people who forgot to wear deodorant the the past month.
Is all Jordan’s writing like this? Is this an outlier or should I cross all her books off my TBR list?
Is all Jordan’s writing like this? Is this an outlier or should I cross all her books off my TBR list?
dnf
November 20, 2019DNF at 17%. I think Sophie Jordan and I are an author-reader mismatch. I’ve tried several of her books, and they’ve never quite worked for me. In this one, the voice wasn’t clicking and I wasn’t enjoying myself at all. Very much a “It’s me, not the book” situation.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2019
I WON A KINDLE EDITON OF "THE DUKES STOLEN BRIDE" FROM THE GOODREADS GIVEWAY!!
Marian Langley is head of her family. Since her father, the village doctor died a year ago leaving them in poverty. She decides to become a courtesan and seeks out training on love making with the Nathaniel/Nate The Duke of Warrington. Marian's lesson turn hot and heavy and the two of them decide to take this further. But there is one person in the town who wants to marry Marian the disgusting stinky Mr. Lawrence. He finds out about the affair Marian is having with the Duke and blackmails her. She must marry him or he will ruin her. Well Nate is Not having it!!
This was an enjoyable fast pace story with delightful characters. The only thing I didn't like was the kidnapping and physical abuse at the end. Physical Abuse hitting and beating women is not necessary in a romance story on any level. The other thing I don't like is Spinster as the heroine. HR authors have run this in the ground. I am sick of Spinsters stories.
Marian Langley is head of her family. Since her father, the village doctor died a year ago leaving them in poverty. She decides to become a courtesan and seeks out training on love making with the Nathaniel/Nate The Duke of Warrington. Marian's lesson turn hot and heavy and the two of them decide to take this further. But there is one person in the town who wants to marry Marian the disgusting stinky Mr. Lawrence. He finds out about the affair Marian is having with the Duke and blackmails her. She must marry him or he will ruin her. Well Nate is Not having it!!
This was an enjoyable fast pace story with delightful characters. The only thing I didn't like was the kidnapping and physical abuse at the end. Physical Abuse hitting and beating women is not necessary in a romance story on any level. The other thing I don't like is Spinster as the heroine. HR authors have run this in the ground. I am sick of Spinsters stories.
February 29, 2024
4 stars
After the death of their father, Marian and her sisters are left penniless. It's up to Marian to scrape by what they can. She decides to make ends meet to become a mistress. She goes to the town's most depraved man, Duke of Warrington, for lessons in seduction. Nate never wants to marry again after the loss of his wife. He decides to oblige Marian in her proposal, thinking it would just be a few lessons to a somewhat plain girl… never thinking how much he'll end up craving her…
I forgot how much I enjoy Sophie Jordan's writing style. Very steamy with a fast-paced plot! I like Nate and Marian. Some of their scenes were pretty good — making out in a public library, anyone?
I haven't read the other books in the series, but I will after this. I look forward to reading about Charlotte, Marian's sister!
Tropes: working class, class differences, mistress in the making
After the death of their father, Marian and her sisters are left penniless. It's up to Marian to scrape by what they can. She decides to make ends meet to become a mistress. She goes to the town's most depraved man, Duke of Warrington, for lessons in seduction. Nate never wants to marry again after the loss of his wife. He decides to oblige Marian in her proposal, thinking it would just be a few lessons to a somewhat plain girl… never thinking how much he'll end up craving her…
I forgot how much I enjoy Sophie Jordan's writing style. Very steamy with a fast-paced plot! I like Nate and Marian. Some of their scenes were pretty good — making out in a public library, anyone?
I haven't read the other books in the series, but I will after this. I look forward to reading about Charlotte, Marian's sister!
Tropes: working class, class differences, mistress in the making
October 25, 2022
2.5 stars. This story was overly convoluted and ridiculous. Not worth a review, I do not recommend it.
Safe; virgin heroine who decides she's going to be a courtesan to save her family from ruin, asks manwhore hero to tutor her in the art of seduction, he soon offers her a position as his mistress. When OM tries to blackmail her into marriage, the hero marries her instead. No real OW drama, but many mentions of the courtesans that the hero has carted in from London for his temporary use. No idea when he stops having them carted in, but I highly doubt that he stops after meeting the heroine. No scenes with OM/OW, no obvious cheating.
Safe; virgin heroine who decides she's going to be a courtesan to save her family from ruin, asks manwhore hero to tutor her in the art of seduction, he soon offers her a position as his mistress. When OM tries to blackmail her into marriage, the hero marries her instead. No real OW drama, but many mentions of the courtesans that the hero has carted in from London for his temporary use. No idea when he stops having them carted in, but I highly doubt that he stops after meeting the heroine. No scenes with OM/OW, no obvious cheating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2019
The Duke's Stolen Bride
The Rogue Files series #5
Sophie Jordan
https://m.facebook.com/sophiejordanau...
Release date 10/22/2019
Publisher Avon
Blurb :
An urgent dilemma…
To save her impoverished family, Marian Langley will become a mistress. But she will not be just any mistress. Marian intends to become so skilled, so coveted, that she can set her own terms, retaining control over her body and her fate. Only one problem remains: finding a tutor…
A scandalous solution…
Other men deprive themselves of pleasure for propriety’s sake. Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, would much rather be depraved. He slakes his desires with professionals who ask nothing of him but his coin. Marian’s proposal—that he train her without taking her virtue—is an intriguing diversion, until their lessons in seduction spin out of control.
And a most unlikely duchess…
When Marian is blackmailed into engagement by a man she despises, Nate impulsively steals her away. Though he never intended to take a wife, he can’t tolerate the idea of Marian forfeiting her freedom to another. But can he bear to give her what she demands—a real marriage?
My review :
How a woman breaking all the rules will be able to find her happily ever after.
I do have read the entire series less one book, lost somewhere on my shelves, but will read it too. When I closed the previous book THIS SCOT OF MINE, I was so eager to read Marian’s story, I preordered it as soon as it was announced.
My first remark is the blurb tells too much about the story, it nearly sums up the whole story, so where are the surprises while reading this book?
I confess I felt like robbed of a part of my fun.
Marian had her up and down with me, she is a caring woman, ready to sacrifice her future for her family, but she was also very judgmental at the beginning about the duke, when he has the perfect profil as a future employer if she really did decide to engage in the world oldest profession business.
Hopefully from haughty and picky, she revised her opinion of him, when she realized he was the best option she has.
Also I found her rather puerile at the beginning, for a 24 years old woman, her reactions to her environment and situation lacked of thoughts, and some were very childish moves, as if she had procrastinated until she was faced with an unmovable wall.
I suppose it was probably the case of many women during these times, still for all her daring and cleverness, she was quite slow on the uptake.
I loved Nate, despite everything he thinks about himself, he is a good man. After the upbringing he had, and the loss of his late wife and their still-born child, it does not offend me, he prefers to not engage his heart and engages in sexual Congress with professionals.
He was more the Broken or Hollow Duke to me than the Depraved Duke. After a life of pain and loss, he could have turned worse.
Still, he let himself be entranced by the lively and determined Marian.
Even if it is not my favorite read in this series, part of my pleasure stolen by the few twists in the plot left to discover while reading it, I devoured it in few hours, turning the pages avidly. I would have liked to see them married a bit longer, for them to get to know really the other, to try to heal each other wounds until their reached their epiphany.
So do not deny yourself an entertaining read, Mrs Jordan mixed the perfect components for a page-turning sensual tale of second chances.
4.5 stars
And now I am curious about Marian’s sister, Charlotte.
I was granted through Edelweiss an advance copy by the publisher Avon. I previously preordered my own copy.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Rogue Files series #5
Sophie Jordan
https://m.facebook.com/sophiejordanau...
Release date 10/22/2019
Publisher Avon
Blurb :
An urgent dilemma…
To save her impoverished family, Marian Langley will become a mistress. But she will not be just any mistress. Marian intends to become so skilled, so coveted, that she can set her own terms, retaining control over her body and her fate. Only one problem remains: finding a tutor…
A scandalous solution…
Other men deprive themselves of pleasure for propriety’s sake. Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, would much rather be depraved. He slakes his desires with professionals who ask nothing of him but his coin. Marian’s proposal—that he train her without taking her virtue—is an intriguing diversion, until their lessons in seduction spin out of control.
And a most unlikely duchess…
When Marian is blackmailed into engagement by a man she despises, Nate impulsively steals her away. Though he never intended to take a wife, he can’t tolerate the idea of Marian forfeiting her freedom to another. But can he bear to give her what she demands—a real marriage?
My review :
How a woman breaking all the rules will be able to find her happily ever after.
I do have read the entire series less one book, lost somewhere on my shelves, but will read it too. When I closed the previous book THIS SCOT OF MINE, I was so eager to read Marian’s story, I preordered it as soon as it was announced.
My first remark is the blurb tells too much about the story, it nearly sums up the whole story, so where are the surprises while reading this book?
I confess I felt like robbed of a part of my fun.
Marian had her up and down with me, she is a caring woman, ready to sacrifice her future for her family, but she was also very judgmental at the beginning about the duke, when he has the perfect profil as a future employer if she really did decide to engage in the world oldest profession business.
Hopefully from haughty and picky, she revised her opinion of him, when she realized he was the best option she has.
Also I found her rather puerile at the beginning, for a 24 years old woman, her reactions to her environment and situation lacked of thoughts, and some were very childish moves, as if she had procrastinated until she was faced with an unmovable wall.
I suppose it was probably the case of many women during these times, still for all her daring and cleverness, she was quite slow on the uptake.
I loved Nate, despite everything he thinks about himself, he is a good man. After the upbringing he had, and the loss of his late wife and their still-born child, it does not offend me, he prefers to not engage his heart and engages in sexual Congress with professionals.
He was more the Broken or Hollow Duke to me than the Depraved Duke. After a life of pain and loss, he could have turned worse.
Still, he let himself be entranced by the lively and determined Marian.
Even if it is not my favorite read in this series, part of my pleasure stolen by the few twists in the plot left to discover while reading it, I devoured it in few hours, turning the pages avidly. I would have liked to see them married a bit longer, for them to get to know really the other, to try to heal each other wounds until their reached their epiphany.
So do not deny yourself an entertaining read, Mrs Jordan mixed the perfect components for a page-turning sensual tale of second chances.
4.5 stars
And now I am curious about Marian’s sister, Charlotte.
I was granted through Edelweiss an advance copy by the publisher Avon. I previously preordered my own copy.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
September 9, 2019
Marian Langley has found herself in dire times, and she is restless in all the work she is doing to protect her now impoverished family. With time she comes to the decision to become a courtesan, but first she needs someone to help her become skilled in the art of seduction, and goes to an old friend and former courtesan to ask if she can recommend someone for the task; and her friend tells her that as she was already acquainted with Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, to ask him for the help.
He first says no to the proposition, but later rethinks his decision as he is already intrigued by her and they come to an agreement.
Their feelings only seems to grow with each time they are together, and after a abusive men discover the true nature of their connections and threatens her with marriage in a way that she feels forced to accept because of her care for her sisters and younger brother, Nate discovers this and instead of letting her have such a cruel fate with the horrible men, goes to talk to her and ask her to elope with him instead. They marry and are happy until some insecurities from the past cause a little trouble with them, and to worse things up the bad men reappears in a quest for vengeance and they have to find a way to freed themselves once and for all from the man and resolve the issues in the marriage so they can find a way to their ever after.
This was such a incredible and entertaining story, i loved the couple and was rooting for their happiness.
I received an free arc copy of this book from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
He first says no to the proposition, but later rethinks his decision as he is already intrigued by her and they come to an agreement.
Their feelings only seems to grow with each time they are together, and after a abusive men discover the true nature of their connections and threatens her with marriage in a way that she feels forced to accept because of her care for her sisters and younger brother, Nate discovers this and instead of letting her have such a cruel fate with the horrible men, goes to talk to her and ask her to elope with him instead. They marry and are happy until some insecurities from the past cause a little trouble with them, and to worse things up the bad men reappears in a quest for vengeance and they have to find a way to freed themselves once and for all from the man and resolve the issues in the marriage so they can find a way to their ever after.
This was such a incredible and entertaining story, i loved the couple and was rooting for their happiness.
I received an free arc copy of this book from the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
April 11, 2020
I would definitely say the first half of the book was the better half. As the hero and heroine are first interacting, watching how the hero becomes interested in our heroine, falling for her. But something seemed missing in the second half, I can't place my finger on it though. Maybe more banter between the hero and heroine, have the heroine loosen up a little, yes, more interactions btwn the couple to show them falling for each other. It was so good in the beginning, but the ending seemed rushed. The whole "stolen bride" part of the story was definitely rushed. After that particular scene, I was like, "wait, what? That's it?" So I think it would have been a 5-star with a little more Umph in the ending chapters.
August 21, 2019
A rollicking fun time, but I had to suspend my disbelief that a seasoned courtesan who Marian initially seeks out for assistance in finding her own career as a mistress would suggest doing anything with anyone for free. Also, why wouldn't the retired courtesan train Marian herself? I'd like to read a romance like that (and maybe they fall in love).
That detail set aside, I had a great time as always reading Sophie Jordan's latest.
CW for stalking, threat of sexual violence, physical assault, and kidnapping.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair review from Library Journal (review link to come once published to LJ).
That detail set aside, I had a great time as always reading Sophie Jordan's latest.
CW for stalking, threat of sexual violence, physical assault, and kidnapping.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair review from Library Journal (review link to come once published to LJ).
December 20, 2019
This has to be one of the stupidest premises ever. Former governess for a duchess is so desperate she’s willing to turn to prostitution and needs lessons. You’re telling me she was too proud to ask her for help but being a whore was okay? Gross. There were so many things that made absolutely NO SENSE in this story. Ugh. So just skip to the steamy parts because they’re super hot and that saved it. The end.
June 16, 2020
I stopped reading historical romance voraciously many years ago even since all stories had Dukes as main characters. Not that I don't like a duke like anybody else, it's just that I disliked how every single peer HAD to be a duke. You see, the first Duke I read in HR was the Duke of Bewcastle, the head of the Bedwyn family in the Bedwyn saga. That character for BUILT for 6 books and he was so powerful and a force to be reckon with. In my mind, him being a duke was paramount to who he was, to his story and that of his siblings.
So that's why now that I'm in a HR kick, I'll start my reviews of any book with a duke by answering the question:
- Does the hero really needs to be a Duke? TM - meaning, could the story work out if he was any other peer? And if he was, I'll demote him to something else.
To get us started Does Nate really need to be a Duke here? The answer is no. He just doesn't meet Rule #1 of Regency Dukes: Everybody is in awe of a Regency Duke. Commoners. Other peers. They're just below royalty, for God's sake! Nate could have been a Viscount and the story wouldn't have changed one whit.
The Duke's Stolen Bride was ok. The backstories of the main characters were run of the mill and Nate was too emo for my taste - I mean, the guy in his 30s and he was complaining about he didn't have friends, he was bullied at school, his stepfather didn't like him, yada, yada (another reason why he wasn't Duke material...Rule #2 of Regency Dukes say "Duke's don't whine, no matter how bad they have it!!) Marian on the other hand, was too 21st century. She wanted to be independent so she'd rather be a prostitute that marrying a fat guy! I know the fat guy wasn't appealing but the life of a prostitute was glamorized a bit too much. As a prostitute, it's likely that she'd have to sleep with lots of fat, old, ugly, violent and odorous men. I don't know how that was a better choice.
The only good thing about the book was the chemistry between the leads. Once they got going with the "lessons", both were so into each other that they would practically combust when they saw each other. The anticipation, the lust, the passion were palpable.
Not sure if I'll continue reading the series.
So that's why now that I'm in a HR kick, I'll start my reviews of any book with a duke by answering the question:
- Does the hero really needs to be a Duke? TM - meaning, could the story work out if he was any other peer? And if he was, I'll demote him to something else.
To get us started Does Nate really need to be a Duke here? The answer is no. He just doesn't meet Rule #1 of Regency Dukes: Everybody is in awe of a Regency Duke. Commoners. Other peers. They're just below royalty, for God's sake! Nate could have been a Viscount and the story wouldn't have changed one whit.
The Duke's Stolen Bride was ok. The backstories of the main characters were run of the mill and Nate was too emo for my taste - I mean, the guy in his 30s and he was complaining about he didn't have friends, he was bullied at school, his stepfather didn't like him, yada, yada (another reason why he wasn't Duke material...Rule #2 of Regency Dukes say "Duke's don't whine, no matter how bad they have it!!) Marian on the other hand, was too 21st century. She wanted to be independent so she'd rather be a prostitute that marrying a fat guy! I know the fat guy wasn't appealing but the life of a prostitute was glamorized a bit too much. As a prostitute, it's likely that she'd have to sleep with lots of fat, old, ugly, violent and odorous men. I don't know how that was a better choice.
The only good thing about the book was the chemistry between the leads. Once they got going with the "lessons", both were so into each other that they would practically combust when they saw each other. The anticipation, the lust, the passion were palpable.
Not sure if I'll continue reading the series.
Want to read
June 9, 2020Won this in a Goodreads giveaway!! Cant wait to give this one a read I’ve recently been on a historical romance kick ;)
August 28, 2024
The Duke's Stolen Bride has a trope that I tend to avoid—the mistress trope. But Sophie Jordan adds a twist that made me really enjoy this book.
When Marian's father passes away, she becomes responsible for her three younger siblings. Unfortunately, that also means being responsible for her father's debts. Eventually, Marian figures that it's in her best interest to sell her virginity and her body as a courtesan. But first, she needs training on how to please a man. So she turns to Nate, the Duke of Warrington, AKA the Depraved Duke.
I was a bit wary about this book because the mistress/courtesan trope is rarely executed in a palatable way. In this instance, Marian's decision to become a courtesan is not random. There's build up leading to Marian's decision and it's significant enough that I could understand why and how she was led to that last resort. I also really liked the reasoning behind why Clara chose Nate to be her tutor. Again, I feel like the build up was really well executed so much so that Marian's decision and her choice in tutor made sense to me.
Bear in mind that the synopsis pretty much gives the entire plot away, but that didn't lesson my enjoyment of the story. The lessons in seduction trope is soooooo deliciously executed here. I really liked both Marian and Nate. Their chemistry was 🔥 with some extra spice 🌶️ Their desire for each other was so palpable that it leaped off the page 🔥 Nate respected Marian's decision to become a courtesan and most importantly, he was not a snob. He never once thought Marian was beneath him and he came to her rescue multiple times. Nate's "Stay clear of my wife" was exactly what I needed from him, someone who supposedly prefers to be lonely. Overall, I really enjoyed Nate and Marian's romance and this is one of my favourite books in the series.
When Marian's father passes away, she becomes responsible for her three younger siblings. Unfortunately, that also means being responsible for her father's debts. Eventually, Marian figures that it's in her best interest to sell her virginity and her body as a courtesan. But first, she needs training on how to please a man. So she turns to Nate, the Duke of Warrington, AKA the Depraved Duke.
I was a bit wary about this book because the mistress/courtesan trope is rarely executed in a palatable way. In this instance, Marian's decision to become a courtesan is not random. There's build up leading to Marian's decision and it's significant enough that I could understand why and how she was led to that last resort. I also really liked the reasoning behind why Clara chose Nate to be her tutor. Again, I feel like the build up was really well executed so much so that Marian's decision and her choice in tutor made sense to me.
Bear in mind that the synopsis pretty much gives the entire plot away, but that didn't lesson my enjoyment of the story. The lessons in seduction trope is soooooo deliciously executed here. I really liked both Marian and Nate. Their chemistry was 🔥 with some extra spice 🌶️ Their desire for each other was so palpable that it leaped off the page 🔥 Nate respected Marian's decision to become a courtesan and most importantly, he was not a snob. He never once thought Marian was beneath him and he came to her rescue multiple times. Nate's "Stay clear of my wife" was exactly what I needed from him, someone who supposedly prefers to be lonely. Overall, I really enjoyed Nate and Marian's romance and this is one of my favourite books in the series.
February 4, 2020
Former governess Marian Langley now finds herself in dire straits since her father's death. She and her three younger siblings are left with nothing and she's responsible for their care. Marian decides to do the only thing she can think of to earn the necessary funds and maintain her freedom: she will become a sought-after mistress. For that she needs a tutor and who better than the depraved duke himself.
Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, is fine with seeing to his needs with paid professionals, the more impersonal the better. When Marian proposes he tutor her whilst leaving her virtue intact, Nate finds himself agreeing to the entertainment, until their simple lessons threaten his careful control and he sends her away.
Marian fights her growing attachment to Nate, but soon the jig is up when a loathsome man threatens to expose her and ruin her family unless she marries him. Nate never wanted to remarry after losing his wife in childbirth, but neither can he bear to see Marian with another man. But once they are married, Nate still may not be able to give his whole heart and Marian will settle for nothing less.
I was unsure about this one at first, mostly because Marian frustrated me. Her refusal to communicate with her siblings exacerbated some of her problems, and yet I could also see where she was coming from, though a lot of her reasoning was rather nonsensical. Nate was aloof and not that likable until suddenly he was. The last 25% or so made this book for me and now I find myself looking forward to the next in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nathaniel, Duke of Warrington, is fine with seeing to his needs with paid professionals, the more impersonal the better. When Marian proposes he tutor her whilst leaving her virtue intact, Nate finds himself agreeing to the entertainment, until their simple lessons threaten his careful control and he sends her away.
Marian fights her growing attachment to Nate, but soon the jig is up when a loathsome man threatens to expose her and ruin her family unless she marries him. Nate never wanted to remarry after losing his wife in childbirth, but neither can he bear to see Marian with another man. But once they are married, Nate still may not be able to give his whole heart and Marian will settle for nothing less.
I was unsure about this one at first, mostly because Marian frustrated me. Her refusal to communicate with her siblings exacerbated some of her problems, and yet I could also see where she was coming from, though a lot of her reasoning was rather nonsensical. Nate was aloof and not that likable until suddenly he was. The last 25% or so made this book for me and now I find myself looking forward to the next in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 6, 2019
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
5 Stars.
Spoiler-Free Review
The Duke's Stolen Bride is the fifth installment in The Rogue Files series. While loosely connected to the overall series theme, it can easily be read as a standalone independent of the series with little to no confusion.
I've been super busy, so I've saved this novel as a treat to read during my nightly bubble baths. I have to admit, sometimes I got too involved and stayed in the water too long and ended up looking like a prune. It's not shocker for me to admit I'll fangirl over Sophie Jordan's historical romances. What is a shocker is that I've read this series piecemeal, somehow skipping the first and the third books in the series. Once I get a chunk of uninterrupted free time, I plan on doing a series read, including rereading this novel.
Marian is a logical heroine who is willing to sacrifice for the security of her family. After her father's passing, the loyalty runs deep for her sisters, so deep she's willing to become a courtesan to support them. The only obstacle in her path is that she needs someone to tutor her in the art of seduction without stealing the last bit of her innocence.
Nate is bored and looking for distraction, and Marian is exactly what he needs to make life interesting again. He easily jumps at the chance to train her, which sparks many banter-filled, tension-filled interactions, which I found unexpectedly hilarious with their dry wit. Marian is inexperienced, yet Nate comes off as the immature one, lending to the artful balance between the pair. The lessens turned smoking hot, causing me to blush more than a time or two.
Without spoiling the plot points, Marian is thrust into an untenable situation. Nate comes to her rescue, but not in the typical damsel in distress fashion. Once what is done can't be undone, the push-pull slowly evolves into something more substantial between the pair.
Overall, there wasn't a ton of angst, the conflicts were resolved easily and quickly, leaving behind a light, flirty, fun, hot read, perfect for a few stolen moments in the bathtub.
I highly recommend Sophie Jordan and all of her historical romance novels to fans of the genre.
5 Stars.
Spoiler-Free Review
The Duke's Stolen Bride is the fifth installment in The Rogue Files series. While loosely connected to the overall series theme, it can easily be read as a standalone independent of the series with little to no confusion.
I've been super busy, so I've saved this novel as a treat to read during my nightly bubble baths. I have to admit, sometimes I got too involved and stayed in the water too long and ended up looking like a prune. It's not shocker for me to admit I'll fangirl over Sophie Jordan's historical romances. What is a shocker is that I've read this series piecemeal, somehow skipping the first and the third books in the series. Once I get a chunk of uninterrupted free time, I plan on doing a series read, including rereading this novel.
Marian is a logical heroine who is willing to sacrifice for the security of her family. After her father's passing, the loyalty runs deep for her sisters, so deep she's willing to become a courtesan to support them. The only obstacle in her path is that she needs someone to tutor her in the art of seduction without stealing the last bit of her innocence.
Nate is bored and looking for distraction, and Marian is exactly what he needs to make life interesting again. He easily jumps at the chance to train her, which sparks many banter-filled, tension-filled interactions, which I found unexpectedly hilarious with their dry wit. Marian is inexperienced, yet Nate comes off as the immature one, lending to the artful balance between the pair. The lessens turned smoking hot, causing me to blush more than a time or two.
Without spoiling the plot points, Marian is thrust into an untenable situation. Nate comes to her rescue, but not in the typical damsel in distress fashion. Once what is done can't be undone, the push-pull slowly evolves into something more substantial between the pair.
Overall, there wasn't a ton of angst, the conflicts were resolved easily and quickly, leaving behind a light, flirty, fun, hot read, perfect for a few stolen moments in the bathtub.
I highly recommend Sophie Jordan and all of her historical romance novels to fans of the genre.
November 9, 2019
I don't know if I agree with Marian’s choices but I trusted Sophie to make it work and for the most part, she did. Marian’s desperation came across clearly. Nate’s depravity was more told than shown but acceptable. There's serious heat in the sexytimes, one of the reasons I’m upgrading this to 4. The ending came a bit fast and I wish there was more involvement by characters from previous books, especially Clara.
Overall, this was a quick, light read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Overall, this was a quick, light read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 2, 2021
Hot and steamy!
January 24, 2023
Not bad.
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