A Lady's First Scandal

The May Flowers #1

by Merry Farmer

Four years ago, Lady Cecelia Campbell fell head over heels in love with Lord Rupert Marlowe, the young Earl of Stanhope. Everybody knew they would marry and live happily ever after.

But then Rupert did the unthinkable. He took up a commission as an officer in the army and left England for a post in the Transvaal. Cecelia was left alone in England, loving, yearning, and worrying about him from a distance.

Now Rupert has returned. He is ready to take up his seat in the House of Lords, to take over the administration of the Stanhope estate from his mother, Lady Katya, and most importantly of all, to finally marry Cecelia.

Cece isn’t the same woman Rupert left behind, however. She has grown and flourished and become a woman of strength and opinion. And she’s not going to sit back and let Rupert get away with leaving her for so long.

But when Cece takes a stand and declares her independence in a very public way, the scandal her defiance causes blows every expectation for her future happiness with Rupert to smithereens. It also gains her an exclusive invitation to join the elite group of politically-minded women known as the May Flowers. But the May Flowers are a group of shocking, defiant, sometimes wicked women. They are a bundle of scandals waiting to happen.

Can Rupert convince the new, more powerful Cecelia to forgive him for abandoning her, and can he woo her all over again? Will the scandal of their break-up tear them apart forever, or will it make their love stronger…and hotter?

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy!

THE MAY FLOWERS series is a continuation of THE SILVER FOXES OF WESTMINSTER series, involving the younger generation.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Historical Fiction, Second Chance, Fiction, Military Fiction

247 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 20, 2019

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.

Reviews

[Jen ♥]

Idk, but I feel like the romance is just an afterthought in this story. A huge part of this was about the Irish Home Rule and the support of women in it who are interested in political matters.

I think the blurb was a bit misleading because there wasn't really any wooing going on here. Sure, Cece dumped Rupert in front of everyone, but honestly, she didn't even make him work hard to get her back. She tends to give in every time he seduces her, and of course, her body and hormones take the lead in those moments. I was hoping for a strong FMC, but it turns out she's just another one without much backbone.

Then, after Rupert realized that Cece had changed since he left her four years ago, he made little to no effort to woo her back or consider strategies to win over the new her. He takes advantage of their attraction as a tool to force his way into her life, and stupidly, he always succeeds in getting what he wants.

Anyway, the MCs' story has concluded here. But there's this big storyline about uncovering who's responsible for Fergus' attack. He woke up, and there's still a long road ahead for recovery. I’m guessing he and Henrietta are going to have their own book.

Overall, I wasn't a fan, but it could be good for someone else.


Book info:
- Historical romance
- Second chance-ish (4 yrs)
- Physical assault (on side char)
- Step siblings
- No cheating
- OW/OM (see notes)
- Separation (see notes)
- V FMC, Experienced MMC (see notes)
- HEA (mos later, married)


Notes:
- OW: One lady did flirt with Rupert on numerous occasions, and sometimes he entertains her out of politeness, but at times it's because he wants to make Cece jealous. He's never interested in the OW 
- OM: His friends just couldn't get through to him that his "wooing" only makes things worse for him. So, they decided to team up to shower Cece with attention and make Ruper a bit jealous.
- Separation 1: He went to serve in the military for four years, and was celibate since he met her (5 yrs ago)
- Separation 2: She dumped him publicly at 14%. They were technically separated until the 90%, I think, and they ended up having a benefits situation.
- Experienced MMC: Cece said that she met Rupert when he was 18. I’m not sure, but I think they were about the same age back then. They were together for a year, before he served in the military for four years. Anyway, when they finally reunited and sleep together for the first time, Rupert confessed that a few of his mom's friends gave him a "proper education" about sex. Obviously he was minor when this happened, but he was a willing participant. Cece got really angry about this, knowing he had lovers in the past. But later on in the story, she realized that she’s actually thankful for his "experiences" because they taught him how to please her just right. Her thinking made me wanna puke, honestly, but to each their own, I suppose.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

"A Lady's First Scandal" transports readers to late Victorian England and to times of momentous change in the British Empire, creating an alluring backdrop for this tale.

Read full review in the 2019 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Cee · Rating 2 out of 5]

This historical romance had a lot of good things (pleasant writing style, period-appropriate aristocratic feminist ladies), but ultimately the problematic elements became too intrusive.

The hero Rupert's biggest flaw is that he doesn't listen to the heroine and just assumes that he knows what's best for her. This barely changes throughout the story, and the final sex scene only cements it. Rupert decides to shave the heroine's pubic hair without asking her, claiming "you'll like it". Ugh. It was weird as hell and not cute - imagine someone coming at your genitals with a straight razor??? The entire scene was so problematic on so many levels.

Aside from the hero, the story has a very awkward relationship to colonialism. Witnessing a hate crime in England, Rupert comments on how that was more vicious than anything he ever saw in the several years of soldiering in South Africa. What? Just.... what? All the butchering and pillaging and cruelty was somehow less bad than when your white friend got clobbered?

I'm not sure whether to read a book by this author again. I liked some aspects, but others were very, very bad.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

So Merry Farmer is a fairly new author for me. This is only my 8th book by her.
I read her the first time when she wrote Second Chance Manor series that she wrote with Scarlett Scott and Caroline Lee. I made a note I wanted to read more of hers.

Wasn't a huge fan of the Unsuitable Bride series and only read first 2 books. I thought the stories were good but quick reads and sex was okay. I already had this book on my Kindle Fire so thought I'd go ahead and read it. I am so glad I did.

I really liked these characters, although I was curious about them at the beginning (I don't read synopsis/book descriptions anymore so wasn't sure who she ended up with). The sex was way steamier then some of her other reads.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. Should be an interesting series.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was mainly a lighthearted, fun read but it did have some serious political issues concerning Home Rule for Ireland. I liked the characters of Cece and Rupert, there were some very humorous moments when they teased one another. Cece has become a strong women while Rupert has been away and wasn’t going to be taken for granted. Rupert needed to amend his previous ways if he wanted to win Cece. They had an unconventional family as well, with some lively characters. The serious side was both racial and political and also saw women trying to get their opinions heard. This was an entertaining read.

[Alina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked the book, strong heroine clueless but lovable hero. And the historical references about the war between the Irish and English really added to the story. Also, the steam level was HOT.

Honestly, I want a 21st-century version of this book, where the heroine is fighting the beliefs of an unequal society and the hero is supportive, he can be clueless I am okay with that.

4.75/5

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Lord Rupert Marlowe, the Earl of Stanhope, first met Lady Cecelia Campbell, the daughter of his mother's new husband, their connection was instant and the entire family knew they belonged together. But then Rupert took an officer's army commission and left to fight in South Africa, leaving Cece behind to worry for him without ever consulting her on the decision.

Four years later Rupert has finally returned ready to take on his responsibilities as an earl, claim his seat in the House of Lords, and marry the love of his life. But Cece has changed and truly come into her own as a woman in the time he's been gone. She has her own thoughts and strong opinions and, though she loves Rupert, she won't settle for anything less than full respect and a true partnership.

When Cece joins a radical ladies' political group and takes a public stand against Rupert's high-handed assumptions, scandal ensues. Rupert must figure out how to earn Cece's forgiveness and make her fall in love with him all over again. She's shown her strength and independence, but he hopes to show her how strong they can be together.

Bless his heart but Rupert was utterly clueless. His attempts at being loving and reassuring just came off as arrogant and callous. This sort of trope doesn't typically work for me with the characters making each other jealous and dancing around one another but it did here. I think because it was obvious to everyone, including the main characters themselves, that they truly loved each other and would work it out and be together. Cece was strong and courageous without being a shrew and her interactions with Rupert were a very accurate depiction of how real relationships truly are: even after you find the person you know you belong with, you still have to work to make your relationship a success. There was also some good quality villainy and the most charming secondary characters. I'm so looking forward to more of this new series and it's off to a great start.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Lady’s First Scandal was such an entertaining and great first in a series. I did have read only one book from the previous series but I did not felt lost, this one stands alone.
It was so interesting to see how some women tried to take their future in their own hands, not an easy task but with patience, even if it required a painstaking work and to often start all over again.
The main characters were so fun to see interacting together, time apart changed them, but never Lord Rupert Marlowe did expected the sweet and kind young woman he left behind to become this stunning and well spoken lady who begins to know what she really wants in life and love, and it is not just to wait for him at home and bear his child.
Lady Cecelia Campbell’s patience has worn thin when her soon-to-be-betrothed upon his return to London, after four years of absence, prefers to gloat about his life and his exploits on the battlefields and outside and spend time with his former comrades.
So in a fit of temper, she shows him she is no more a young girl out for her first ball, she knows what she desires and it is no more to wait for him than to just attend party after party.
They are both compassionate and clever characters, they just need to get reacquainted without infuriating the other. Never they doubt another’s feelings but life went on and they must accept the changes together.
It was at time funny, sweet or steamy plus watching Rupert fall all over again in love with Cecelia was so fulfilling.
I was an able to put this book down until very late last evening or early this morning, which is not good when you rise before the sun to work.
The story mixed perfectly both points of view with the meetings between the May Flower but also Rupert’s group of friends. The plot found its right path smoothly and nothing felt rushed, I loved hating the vilains, I hurt for some of the characters and cheered when it was the time.
I’m now curious about the next story in this series and even if it is not for now, my heart aches for Fergus and I do hope to see more of him in the future.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blissful homecoming and reunion. After four years the man Lady Cecelia loves beyond anything has returned from from the war. Wonderful you say? Not! Lord Rupert Marlowe loves Cece and missed her desperately, but he had lifelong friends he had made and really gave more attention to them than her. Grrr. I just wanted to reach in the book and shake him! Of course it hurts her feelings and that set off and adventure Rupert will have to take to get her attention back!!
A wonderful start to a new series by Merry Farmer! I love these two but also the strong secondary characters of Cece's family and Rupert's sisters, especially Bianca!
Prepare to start reading and not stop as Cece finds her independence and gets an inviation to join the exclusive May Flowers! There is no telling what will happen and see if Rupert can redeem himself and get Cece back!!
I cannot wait for more in the series!!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bless his heart, Rupert is a bit clueless when it comes to woman and what they want and need. He really does try though. I like how Rupert had to learn to understand Cece. Cece does not come off as strong in the beginning but as the story progresses you can see her personality come out. Sometimes we all need a little scandal in our lives. We come out stronger and better for it. There is a shocker scene near the end that teared me up – get out the tissues. The writing flows well and kept me engaged. What can I say, I loved it!

Merry, please say there is a book with Fergus and Lady Tavistock?

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Booksprout.

[AmazingJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.

I really enjoyed this Book.
Cecelia & Rupert were wonderful characters.


I can't imagine how much women suffered during this time. Fighting for equality & the right to vote.

I am looking forward to reading Bianca & Jackk's story in the next book in this series.

[Sharyn · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF. Gave up on this book by the end of chapter 2. Hated the weak hero, not keen on the heroine either. The completely unnecessay use of the c-word by her father to describe the hero's moustache was the final straw. I have no problem with swearing, but it needs to fit the context of the story and the time period.

[Joanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Plot Revolves Around Political Issues

This book was a bit heavy on the political issues. I understand it is the May Flowers series so it focuses on the outspoken women with strong political views. But I feel like the discussion of political issues is the main theme of the book and it overshadowed the love story.

The hero came back from his deployment and the heroine felt as if he is taking her for granted. So begins a game of hard to get. Really the love story is almost non-existent except for the sexual aspect of it. The heroine did not feel truly loves for who she is. But she is secure enough in his affections that she does not get jealous. The hero has loved her for years since they met and had an understanding. After having sex the heroine still feels undervalued and yet continues to engage in sexual intercourse. And then there were too many characters. I can barely determine who is who and how they are related to the hero and heroine’s story. I guess I would have to read previous books with the same characters. Then there is the cricket match. I remember reading a book from the Silver Fox series also using cricket match to settle a dispute. I found myself skipping pages of political discourse. I am just not into an in depth political history lesson integrated into a historical romance. I also felt like the hero and heroine were just minor characters.

Overall, the book was entertaining to a certain extent. But for me this is heavy on the number of characters and political theme.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would give this 2.5 stars if an option--it was definitely somewhere between "okay" and "I liked it." The basic concept is sound: a woman is reunited after four years with her almost-betrothed and wonders if she's outgrown the attachment, as she finds her voice in society and politics, while the hero gets to know and fall in love with the new person that she's grown to be and deals with his own traumas. That's the book that I was expecting and hoping for, and frankly, would still like to read. I both give this book more credit than it deserves for the premise and more irritation for how much it falls short of it.

The heroine, Cece (is this pronounced Cease or SeeSee, btw?) is all over the place, childish in the extreme and completely unable to use her words with her equally annoying not-fiance, whose name I have already forgotten. He frequently ignores her and takes her for granted, which ticks her off, then when he does pay attention to her, she huffs and stomps off, even though she acknowledges to herself that she's still going to marry him eventually. On his part, he's alternately oblivious/an idiot and completely jealous. Basically, a lot of eye-rolling games on both sides. The hero as a whole basically only cares about getting laid and chilling with his friends, with no real interest in the political and social activism that are supposed to obsess Cece, although he is supportive of her interests. He has absolutely no negative effects from four years of fighting so far away from home.

There is a lot about Irish home rule, and those parts are more or less fine, but not at all consistent with the maturity of the heroine--she is impossible to take seriously. Then there is the bizarrely unacknowledged hypocrisy regarding the explicitly mentioned relationship of Irish home rule to British colonialism, when the hero and his buddy literally just got back from fighting in the First Boer War (?). I kept waiting for the characters to acknowledge this huge elephant in the room, but apparently they were quite comfortable with its presence. I guess it's okay to colonize black people, but not white Irish people? Got it.

The hero and his friends have a camaraderie which is most reminiscent of a group of teenage girls, all gossip and feelings and girl power. While I prefer not to have major characters be homophobic, misogynistic, or racist, the attitudes and expressions of these men (and most of the other characters) were done in a way to be rather awkwardly anachronistic. Every word of dialogue in this book would be more at home in the 21st century than the 19th. There are also several moments where Cece has done something that we are told will completely ruin her in society, but then it's never mentioned again.

Then there's the romance: nonexistent. Basically, Cece has hate sex* with the hero a couple of times, because she can't withstand the poorly conveyed passion and tension between them and knows that she'll have to give up torturing him and marry him. So, happily ever after? I guess?

This review comes across more negatively than I genuinely feel about the book. I loved the setting and the premise, and parts of Merry Farmer's writing can be quite good. I see myself reading more of her books in the future. But it's hard to love a romance when you dislike both the hero and the heroine.

*This book's sex scenes veer more towards erotica than most romances and are frankly some of the better-written scenes in the book in some ways, but that almost makes them even more incongruent with the other actions of the characters. They do also read as being highly anachronistic in their telling, and the level of spice is not going to be for everyone, so fair warning.

[Jerry Jares · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book has been a disappointment on several levels. However, the one shining light was the information on how the Irish Question was posed and debated in England. That aspect was very interesting and informative.  The rest of the book, not so much.

Suffragette info is a boring dud for me. I just wanted to let you know that I am not interested in the subject. Cece standing up, giving a great speech, and giving the hecklers "what for" was so unlikely as to make the scene impossible. And what 'lady' engaged in marital relations before marriage and didn't worry about a baby? This story made no sense.

Rupert was just plain stupid.  The intimate scenes were beyond what I wanted to know and seemed impossible to believe. However, I have to save my real scorn for the family dynamic. Cece's father and Rupert's mother married each other after years of intimate life together. They seem surprised that the family discusses intimate details at the breakfast table. 

I don't care one way or the other about the book's final outcome. I was horrified by the extensive use of foul language in a Regency novel., I'm not impressed with the author's writing skills. The last couple of chapters crossed the line of a Regency narrative (check out the mustaches). I dumped the rest of the Merry Farmer books I have -- unread.

[Carole Burant · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Everyone knows that a woman's place is in the domestic sphere"...."Women are feeble. Their constitutions cannot handle the strain of conflict. It damages their reproductive capacity".....with this being men's attitude in that era, it's no wonder women started fighting back and demanded to have rights!

After four years, all Lord Rupert Marlowe wanted was to come home from South Africa, leave the army behind and marry his beloved Lady Cecelia Campbell. He doesn't get the welcome he was expecting, though! Cece has changed and isn't scared of voicing her opinions and has even joined the group of politically minded women, the May Flowers. I kind of felt sorry for Rupert because no matter what he said or tried, Cece would end up being upset with him....poor men, they often times have no clue! lol

Amidst political upheaval and women fighting to have rights, this story centers around Rupert and Cece who are trying to find their way through it all and even though there is a deep passion between them, there has to be some give and take on each side. A very interesting story that I enjoyed reading and of course, it's always fun to learn more about the history of those times.

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Bookosaurous · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb!

The best thing about this book is, it is so relevant even in current day's backdrop! There are so many men who love their partners/ spouses so very much, but still sometimes, unconsciously, they say or do something which points out their male ego, or the male supremacy. They would take important decisions without even consulting their partners/spouses, they would presume to know all about what the other person wants, and not even think about what she really wants. And this irritates, angers women who are very much capable of taking their own decisions and speaking their own minds. This conflict has been so well portrayed in this book! Never, ever have Rupert and Cece had any doubt about their love for each other, but the conflicts in their thoughts came out so honestly. Along with that, every other character has been so well thought of and expressed. The subtle hints about some other romances does make me wait for the upcoming books. And on top of that I must appreciate the author on the way she has blended the history about the Irish Home Rule movement in the story. It has given a strong foundation to the story!

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 5 out of 5]

The very best in Victorian romance!

Cece is a rare breed, a strong-willed woman who isn't afraid to stand up for herself and what she believes. Her intended, Rupert, has his work cut out for him as he adjusts his expectations in order to be the man Cece needs him to be. Their story is intense, sexy, and wildly enlightening.

This author brings a taste of social consciousness to her stories, giving her characters a depth that is rarely found in most romances. I loved the May Flowers, how they are paving their own roads through society and how they interact with and support each other through thick and thin. The extended cast of characters is familiar to those who have read the author's Silver Foxes series, and I really enjoy the way she has spun off the younger generation into their own series of standalones.

The writing is sublime and flows easily as it carries the reader effortlessly along on an amazing and thought-provoking adventure. I highly recommend this book as well as those in the Silver Foxes series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is interesting, dramatic and steamy. Rupert and Cece had an understanding that they would marry, but he went and joined the army. After waiting for four long years to finally see him again, Cece is devastated and angry when he all but ignores her when he gets home. Rupert, being a man, does not understand why she's angry, which frustrates him, so he gets angry too. They play a game throughout the story of who's mad at who for what. Every time they start to get close, one of them gets angry and backs off. While they're having problems the country is in upheaval about Irish rights. There are some very funny parts, and an emotional, tragic and heartbreaking one. I very much enjoyed their banter, and I loved the secondary characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.

[Maria Dariotis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast Paced!

A Lady’s First a Scandal
The May Flowers
Book 1
by Merry Farmer

When Cece’s fiancé decides to get up and enlist, for four years she’s left fuming and worrying for every year that dear old Rupert has been away. But she would have forgiven him if he wasn’t so cold and aloof, but Rupert won’t know what hit him. Let the games begin!
Rupert has to make up for all the displeasure he’s caused her. This was a fantastic read Merry Farmer brings new meaning to fun sexy reads! Passionate with page turning adventure keep you hooked to every word on the pages! I love this new series, I highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in The May Flowers series and I know I want to read the next book. This is, Lady Cecelia Campbell and Lord Rupert Marlowe, the Earl of Stanhope's second chance to get their happy ending. It is also the start of the May Flowers women's group, and the believe's that the Irish where not really a civilized group of people and that they where below notice by the English. I hope as this series goes on that the male villain and his sister who I think is just as guilty as the brother of the crimes committed against others, get what they deserve. I will just have to keep reading this series to see if that happens. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary Pat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not to my taste, but may be for others

Ah, good ole female smut...I mean, erotica. There were too many fantastical elements for me to enjoy - if I want to read fantasy, I'll go to Tolkien. I do find it funny I'm listening to Ulysses on audiobook contemporaneous to reading this book, given the Irish Question.

Plenty of sex, a touch of political history, and some completely absurd situations that don't even come close to reading true. Too much in the way of present day (as in, 2019) attitudes poking into something from the 1880s for me to ignore. It puts me off. This is a common failing of historical novels of any genre, and I'm sure many will find this enjoyable, nevertheless.

[Blueglass]

DNF at 55%.
This was terrible. To start, the heroine was so annoying and expecting her boyfriend, returned from the war, to read her mind. He was not cool or rakish - just an idiot. Their families were so progressive that it was okay that he talked about giving her a "sausage roll" with a knowing grin at breakfast and Dad basically just rolled his eyes. The sex scene was weird and not sensual or sexy or intimate. The heroine was so blasé that she thought she would just sleep with the hero and then drop him. Even though apparently she has loved him and pined for him for years, she can just turn it off like that. Just because he did not do exactly as she expected when he returned. And the political stuff - boring.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Farmer has written a wonderful love story that revolves around Cece and Rupert and it is written in such a way that it draws you in and keeps you interested in what will happen next. In the story there is a large amount of friendly banter not only between the two main characters but others mentioned the story. Rupert’s sister, Bianca adds to the liveliness of the story along with others. The sexual encounters between Rupert and Cece are tastefully written and add to the story. There is a HEA but there is a lot happening in this book which makes it a great read and one that I would highly recommend.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is going to be a great series!
From the start, I could not believe Rupert he had no idea how he can across totally clueless. Cecelia after waiting so long is heartsick their reunion was nothing like she expected. Just reading the first chapter and you know there are going to be some glorious challenges in this piece. The author has done a great job of showing both pov. Great characters and some very well-written scene that you will love made this book hard to put down. This was an excellent story I highly recommend the book. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Dawn Herrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Lady’s First Scandal by Merry Farmer is another great read. There are some up and downs with some interesting characters. Lady Cecelia Campbell “Cece” is an independent strong woman who knows her own mind, she is a far different young woman than who Lord Rupert left behind when he went away as an officer in the army. Now they have come back together he is ready to merry Cecelia but is she? That is just one question to be answered but there is just so much more to this great story. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book. Can’t wait for more of The May Flower series.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great first book in this series

Lady Cecelia and Lord Rupert have always loved each other. But then Rupert takes a commission in the military and spend the next four years in South Africa. Though hurt that Rupert didn't even discuss it with her, Cecelia waits faithfully for him to come home.

When he does finally return, instead of the grandiose heart warming reunion that she has imagined, Rupert barely acknowledges her. Although she loves him, his continued disregard for her makes her feel resentful. When he decides to announce that they are getting married at his mother's ball, Cecelia refuses.

Can Rupert win Cecelia back?

[Catherine Siemann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pluses: interesting focus on politics of the period, particularly Irish Home Rule and looking forward to women's suffrage; strong women being celebrated; same sex couple clearly on deck for later in the series, along with couple of very different social statuses with the woman being the aristocrat.

Minus: heroine and hero both inconsistent in their characters. Hero maddeningly obtuse and personally bossy at the same time that he falls even more in love when his beloved asserts herself publicly on politics. Seemingly instant transformation from reserved to firebrand by heroine. Politics of the Boer War not interrogated despite all of the other issues dealt with thoughtful.

[Vanessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Independent women vs returning soldier

Cecilia loves Rupert but his actions on returning have her expressing her independence against societal norms at a ball when Rupert announces their engagement when she states she can no longer wait for him. Leading to Cecilia joining the mayflowers, finding her political voice and new friends. Rupert stumbles along expecting Cecilia to just fall at his feet with adoration and plans to seduce Cecilia and marry her. Rupert foolishly does not listen to his friends advice to his own emotional detriment. Yet towards the end of this book finally gets a clue

[Zena · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's A Good Story!
With Lady Cecelia and Lord Rupert it's case of 'to be, or not to be' after he returns from the war in South Africa.
He thought he knew her, but on his return she is stronger, very outgoing and not afraid to voice her opinions. I loved how he kept putting his foot into it with his aloof opinions on how she should be and behave, causing many an awkward situation between them, some funnier than others.
While this was an exciting story, I do find this author's more recent works to be far more entertaining showing how she has grown as an author. That said, I did enjoy this book and found the characters absolutely delightful.