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The Ellinghams #4
Every Bit a Rogue
When a young lady sacrifices her reputation to save a viscount, it's the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in Adrienne Basso's captivating Regency tale...
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he's been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fiancée into his latest mechanical invention. But his single-minded existence has lately been shattered by repeated encounters with Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor's intriguing sister-in-law.
Painting and sketching have been Emma's consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount's workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. The gentleman himself is even more fascinating—and deeply seductive. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love.
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he's been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fiancée into his latest mechanical invention. But his single-minded existence has lately been shattered by repeated encounters with Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor's intriguing sister-in-law.
Painting and sketching have been Emma's consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount's workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. The gentleman himself is even more fascinating—and deeply seductive. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 25, 2020
49 people are currently reading
1025 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Basso
29 books240 followersBetween stints as a corporate financial analyst, marketing consultant and public librarian, Adrienne Basso has parlayed her vivid imagination and desire to tell romantic stories into a twenty-four-year writing career. She has published contemporary, Regency, Victorian, vampire, and Scottish medieval romance novels. She enjoys the challenge of creating stories that emphasize the everlasting power of love and is truly delighted that her characters always achieve the fantasy of living happily ever after. A native New Yorker, Adrienne, her husband, and their incomparable dog now live in New Jersey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
March 27, 2020
***3 STARS***
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. I made it to 35% but was unable to connect with the couple. The hero was quite soft and beta for me and there was not anything outstanding about the heroine. I just didn’t feel the chemistry and passion.
I did think the jilted groom was an original setting and not often found in historical romances. I find no fault in Ms. Basso’s writing style, I just did not connect with her characters. I do look forward to reading other books by her however.
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. I made it to 35% but was unable to connect with the couple. The hero was quite soft and beta for me and there was not anything outstanding about the heroine. I just didn’t feel the chemistry and passion.
I did think the jilted groom was an original setting and not often found in historical romances. I find no fault in Ms. Basso’s writing style, I just did not connect with her characters. I do look forward to reading other books by her however.
January 19, 2020
Every Bit a Rogue
The Ellinghams
Adrienne Basso
https://m.facebook.com/AdrienneBasso....
Release date 02/25/2020
Publisher Kensington Zebra
Blurb :
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he’s been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fiancée into his latest mechanical invention. But his single-minded existence has lately been shattered by repeated encounters with Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor’s intriguing sister-in-law . . .
Painting and sketching have been Emma’s consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount’s workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. The gentleman himself is even more fascinating—and deeply seductive. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love . . .
My review :
When circumstances bring together two broken-hearted persons, do they get a second chance at love ...
I know, I often say this, Mrs Adrienne Basso is a new-author-to-me, so it is the blurb that caught my eyes. I love stories set outside ballrooms and people driven by pursuits far away the conventional ones.
I adored this book!
The story begins with Jon’s heartbreak rudely spread in front of everyone when he is left waiting at the altar by his selfish runaway bride.
After I might say lucky him as her character was portrayed as a spoiled brat, only thinking of herself and ready to deplete his coffers for her own enjoyment.
Still he didn’t saw her under this light so smitten by her colorful personality.
Why he retreated from society’s prying eyes to nurse his wounded heart and bury his mind in scientific fulfillment.
Emma suffered too from her own devastating heartache, the difference it was left a secret lingering only between herself and the man whom never returned her feelings. Still it affected her painting muse, shattering her will and need to express herself on paper and canvas.
So when unexpectedly it is reawakening when she stumbles upon Jon’s creation, whatever his rebuttal, she is drawn to him and his engineered machine.
I loved their straightforward personalities, they are honest and caring, thus their tale is one of a romance slowly filling their heart and mind, satisfying their bodies and without rush their need for more than what their firstly expected.
It was nice to see two people with a level head, they might make mistakes, still they give each other time to adjust, they rehearse before giving to doubt, they act maturely able to wait for the other to take the first step.
5 stars for this stirring lively romance of two people who never foresee love might just need a spark to ignite their heart and soul and it was awaiting them in corner.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Kensington, I preordered too my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Ellinghams
Adrienne Basso
https://m.facebook.com/AdrienneBasso....
Release date 02/25/2020
Publisher Kensington Zebra
Blurb :
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he’s been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fiancée into his latest mechanical invention. But his single-minded existence has lately been shattered by repeated encounters with Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor’s intriguing sister-in-law . . .
Painting and sketching have been Emma’s consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount’s workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. The gentleman himself is even more fascinating—and deeply seductive. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love . . .
My review :
When circumstances bring together two broken-hearted persons, do they get a second chance at love ...
I know, I often say this, Mrs Adrienne Basso is a new-author-to-me, so it is the blurb that caught my eyes. I love stories set outside ballrooms and people driven by pursuits far away the conventional ones.
I adored this book!
The story begins with Jon’s heartbreak rudely spread in front of everyone when he is left waiting at the altar by his selfish runaway bride.
After I might say lucky him as her character was portrayed as a spoiled brat, only thinking of herself and ready to deplete his coffers for her own enjoyment.
Still he didn’t saw her under this light so smitten by her colorful personality.
Why he retreated from society’s prying eyes to nurse his wounded heart and bury his mind in scientific fulfillment.
Emma suffered too from her own devastating heartache, the difference it was left a secret lingering only between herself and the man whom never returned her feelings. Still it affected her painting muse, shattering her will and need to express herself on paper and canvas.
So when unexpectedly it is reawakening when she stumbles upon Jon’s creation, whatever his rebuttal, she is drawn to him and his engineered machine.
I loved their straightforward personalities, they are honest and caring, thus their tale is one of a romance slowly filling their heart and mind, satisfying their bodies and without rush their need for more than what their firstly expected.
It was nice to see two people with a level head, they might make mistakes, still they give each other time to adjust, they rehearse before giving to doubt, they act maturely able to wait for the other to take the first step.
5 stars for this stirring lively romance of two people who never foresee love might just need a spark to ignite their heart and soul and it was awaiting them in corner.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Kensington, I preordered too my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
February 18, 2020
Emma Ellingham knows heartbreak and unrequited love, years ago she confessed her love to Sebastian Dodd, the Earl of Tinsdale, who told her he loved her too, as a sister. When Sebastian fell in love and married another, Emma was devastated, she closed off her heart and concentrated on her art, but even that seems to have deserted her. So when Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall is jilted at the altar, Emma knows his pain and feels empathetic but she doesn’t really give him another thought for almost a year, when their paths cross again.
While exploring her brother in laws property, Emma finds a path she has not taken before, one that leads to an unfamiliar building, her curiosity gets the best of her and she approaches, she knocks and enters, she finds two men working on a machine, one of them is Jon, but it is not Jon that captures her attention – it is his machine, for the first time in years Emma feels the overwhelming desire to draw, she is overjoyed, but her joy is short lived when Jon asks her to leave. She returns home and sketches from memory, but really wants to see the machine again. She returns to the workshop and lets herself in and begins to draw, Jon finds her and sends her away, refusing to let her draw his machine. She leaves, promising not to return until she is invited. But, she hasn’t given up, she will find a way!
Jon is finally beginning to get over Dianna, the woman he loved, the one who left him at the altar and ran off with another man. He has poured all the passion he felt for her into his invention – a threshing machine. His experience with Dianna left him hurt and unable to really trust anyone, which is why he denied Emma. He is in the village when he runs into Dianna, literally. He is shocked to see her and tries to be polite, she is married and her husband inherited a barony with a nearby estate. Jon is not happy to learn she will be living close by and even more upset when Dianna’s husband joins them and is nasty to her. Despite everything she did to him, he still feels outraged on her behalf and has to stop himself from defending her. He is returning home when it begins to rain and he finds Emma lost in the woods. The rain intensifies and they take shelter in his workshop, they share a drink and he tells her of seeing Dianna in the village, she moves to comfort him and trips, he catches her and they share a kiss. She is surprised by the feelings it invokes – but they agree it was a mistake. They fall asleep and Emma wakes at dawn – she bolts, hoping to return home before anyone knows she is gone.
Jon is home getting ready to go see Emma when her brother in law arrives – he thinks it is about Emma, but is stunned to learn that Dianna’s husband had been killed the night before and servants at the house named him as the murderer!! To save Jon, Emma confesses to being with him all night. Her confession saves him, but to save their reputations, they must wed. Can they find happiness or will their past experiences with love keep them from trying to find love again?
This was a well written, well-paced story with likable characters, cameos from previous couples in the series, a murder, steamy love scenes and a HEA complete with an epilogue. I was loving this book right up to about the 85% mark and then it tanked for me. I didn’t care for Emma’s deception, I wasn’t thrilled with resolution of the murder and I was really not happy with the “punishment” the villain got. This is the fourth book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand-alone title. I enjoyed the book even though the ending was not what I was hoping for and I would be happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
While exploring her brother in laws property, Emma finds a path she has not taken before, one that leads to an unfamiliar building, her curiosity gets the best of her and she approaches, she knocks and enters, she finds two men working on a machine, one of them is Jon, but it is not Jon that captures her attention – it is his machine, for the first time in years Emma feels the overwhelming desire to draw, she is overjoyed, but her joy is short lived when Jon asks her to leave. She returns home and sketches from memory, but really wants to see the machine again. She returns to the workshop and lets herself in and begins to draw, Jon finds her and sends her away, refusing to let her draw his machine. She leaves, promising not to return until she is invited. But, she hasn’t given up, she will find a way!
Jon is finally beginning to get over Dianna, the woman he loved, the one who left him at the altar and ran off with another man. He has poured all the passion he felt for her into his invention – a threshing machine. His experience with Dianna left him hurt and unable to really trust anyone, which is why he denied Emma. He is in the village when he runs into Dianna, literally. He is shocked to see her and tries to be polite, she is married and her husband inherited a barony with a nearby estate. Jon is not happy to learn she will be living close by and even more upset when Dianna’s husband joins them and is nasty to her. Despite everything she did to him, he still feels outraged on her behalf and has to stop himself from defending her. He is returning home when it begins to rain and he finds Emma lost in the woods. The rain intensifies and they take shelter in his workshop, they share a drink and he tells her of seeing Dianna in the village, she moves to comfort him and trips, he catches her and they share a kiss. She is surprised by the feelings it invokes – but they agree it was a mistake. They fall asleep and Emma wakes at dawn – she bolts, hoping to return home before anyone knows she is gone.
Jon is home getting ready to go see Emma when her brother in law arrives – he thinks it is about Emma, but is stunned to learn that Dianna’s husband had been killed the night before and servants at the house named him as the murderer!! To save Jon, Emma confesses to being with him all night. Her confession saves him, but to save their reputations, they must wed. Can they find happiness or will their past experiences with love keep them from trying to find love again?
This was a well written, well-paced story with likable characters, cameos from previous couples in the series, a murder, steamy love scenes and a HEA complete with an epilogue. I was loving this book right up to about the 85% mark and then it tanked for me. I didn’t care for Emma’s deception, I wasn’t thrilled with resolution of the murder and I was really not happy with the “punishment” the villain got. This is the fourth book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand-alone title. I enjoyed the book even though the ending was not what I was hoping for and I would be happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
February 20, 2020
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, knows what the gossips say about him. They claim he’s been a dejected, half-mad recluse ever since he was jilted at the altar. The simple truth is that Jon has thrown all the passion he once had for his fiancée into his latest mechanical invention.
Painting and sketching have been Emma’s consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount’s workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love I thoroughly enjoyed this different take on second chance of love. This is a new author to me & I did find all the characters a little confusing & it took some time for me to sort everyone out, this probably wouldn’t have happened if I’d read the earlier books. A well written book, I really liked both Jon & Emma & how their relationship developed held me engrossed. I’ll certainly be reading more from the author
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Painting and sketching have been Emma’s consolation since her own secret heartbreak. When she stumbles upon the viscount’s workshop, his machine revives her artistic imagination. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma risks her good name for his sake. But though the threat of scandal compels them to wed, only courage can overcome their pasts, and allow desire to transform into love I thoroughly enjoyed this different take on second chance of love. This is a new author to me & I did find all the characters a little confusing & it took some time for me to sort everyone out, this probably wouldn’t have happened if I’d read the earlier books. A well written book, I really liked both Jon & Emma & how their relationship developed held me engrossed. I’ll certainly be reading more from the author
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 1, 2020
He had been left at the altar on his wedding day. Yes, the talk would begin about "jilted Viscount Kendall being left at the altar. How would he survive this agony?"
But he somehow made it through and they even had the breakfast celebration since there was so much food that would go to waste. Afterwards, as Jon sat his mother's solarium, Miss Emma Ellingham found him. She had been sent by his mother to bring him back to the last of the guest and make sure he was not too despondent. She lived with her sister and husband and were next door neighbors to Jon. Her heart hurt for him in having been jilted and could tell if affected him greatly. She had her own experience of unrequited love.. Since it had seemed her love of drawing had left her.
Fast forward and these two come back together. He has been working on an invention and Emma wanders next door and unexpectedly comes upon him in a workshop and sees what he is working on.
She is so amazed she only wants to begin drawing it but Jon sends her own her way.
Then the journey begins! Emma and Jon end up in his workshop when they are caught out in the rain and everything starts happening! Murder, suspense, longing, attraction and eventually sparks fly between these two! I really enjoyed this story and need to go back and read the rest of the series! Don't miss it!
But he somehow made it through and they even had the breakfast celebration since there was so much food that would go to waste. Afterwards, as Jon sat his mother's solarium, Miss Emma Ellingham found him. She had been sent by his mother to bring him back to the last of the guest and make sure he was not too despondent. She lived with her sister and husband and were next door neighbors to Jon. Her heart hurt for him in having been jilted and could tell if affected him greatly. She had her own experience of unrequited love.. Since it had seemed her love of drawing had left her.
Fast forward and these two come back together. He has been working on an invention and Emma wanders next door and unexpectedly comes upon him in a workshop and sees what he is working on.
She is so amazed she only wants to begin drawing it but Jon sends her own her way.
Then the journey begins! Emma and Jon end up in his workshop when they are caught out in the rain and everything starts happening! Murder, suspense, longing, attraction and eventually sparks fly between these two! I really enjoyed this story and need to go back and read the rest of the series! Don't miss it!
February 27, 2020
Every Bit a Rogue by Adrienne Basso
The Ellinghams #4
This is my first book by Adrienne Basso and I will definitely be searching out more from her. This is book 4 in the series but is fine as a standalone. Characters from books 1 and 2 are in the this story (the heroines from those stories are this heroine's sisters) but nothing that would confuse or make it unreadable. I'm unsure if perhaps you get a better perspective of Jon or Emma's personalities in the first books.
Both these main characters have had their hearts broken in the past. Jon is rumored to be a crazy recluse after being left at the altar, but really he is just finding passion in his inventions away from society. Emma found solace in her painting, but when her muse leaves her, she becomes lonely and depressed. They come together by chance on a few occasions and then are thrown together again when Jon is accused of a crime.
The thing I really enjoyed about this book was nothing really went as I expected. I read a lot, and tend to predict the direction the book will turn and it's always nice to be surprised. Not that there's a shocking revelation in this story, I just didn't find it predictable. It's a story about finding love when you think you can't, or it's just not meant for you.
I enjoyed both characters, although I did get a little frustrated with Emma towards the end of the book, and wasn't 100% on board with some of her feelings she mentioned at the end. Jon, to me, became more enjoyable as the book went on.
I thought it was fairly steamy, with 4-5 scenes. They weren't excessive. I was happy with that aspect of it.
I give 4 stars. It was a pleasant read for me, but didn't quite reach the point of strong feelings for it :)
Thanks netgalley for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own about the book
Slight spoilers about trope type ahead:
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The Ellinghams #4
This is my first book by Adrienne Basso and I will definitely be searching out more from her. This is book 4 in the series but is fine as a standalone. Characters from books 1 and 2 are in the this story (the heroines from those stories are this heroine's sisters) but nothing that would confuse or make it unreadable. I'm unsure if perhaps you get a better perspective of Jon or Emma's personalities in the first books.
Both these main characters have had their hearts broken in the past. Jon is rumored to be a crazy recluse after being left at the altar, but really he is just finding passion in his inventions away from society. Emma found solace in her painting, but when her muse leaves her, she becomes lonely and depressed. They come together by chance on a few occasions and then are thrown together again when Jon is accused of a crime.
The thing I really enjoyed about this book was nothing really went as I expected. I read a lot, and tend to predict the direction the book will turn and it's always nice to be surprised. Not that there's a shocking revelation in this story, I just didn't find it predictable. It's a story about finding love when you think you can't, or it's just not meant for you.
I enjoyed both characters, although I did get a little frustrated with Emma towards the end of the book, and wasn't 100% on board with some of her feelings she mentioned at the end. Jon, to me, became more enjoyable as the book went on.
I thought it was fairly steamy, with 4-5 scenes. They weren't excessive. I was happy with that aspect of it.
I give 4 stars. It was a pleasant read for me, but didn't quite reach the point of strong feelings for it :)
Thanks netgalley for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own about the book
Slight spoilers about trope type ahead:
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August 3, 2025
Part of this is a “shame on me” for not having read the previous books because I felt lost. But I also thought there would be a chunk of time between Jon being jilted and he and Emma beginning to fall in love. Just came off as odd to me.
*I received an eARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an eARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2020
Every Bit a Rogue by Adrienne Basso is book 4 in The Ellinghams Series. This is the story of Emma Ellingham and Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall. I have read the previous book which did add to my enjoyment of this one but I did feel you could make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Emma heart was broken when she confessed her love to the Sebastian Dodd, the Earl of Tinsdale but he said he only had brotherly feelings towards her and married someone else. So Emma is now trying to move on which lands her trying to get her grove back with her arts. Jon is known as a recluse after he was left at the alter by his intended Bride who went on to marry another. But Jon has moved his feelings toward working on his invention. Along the way he happens to meet Emma who has been walking around their near by lands and has gotten lost. Emma is intrigued with Jon and when he is suspected of a crime, Emma stands up to say he was with her.
I enjoyed their story.
Emma heart was broken when she confessed her love to the Sebastian Dodd, the Earl of Tinsdale but he said he only had brotherly feelings towards her and married someone else. So Emma is now trying to move on which lands her trying to get her grove back with her arts. Jon is known as a recluse after he was left at the alter by his intended Bride who went on to marry another. But Jon has moved his feelings toward working on his invention. Along the way he happens to meet Emma who has been walking around their near by lands and has gotten lost. Emma is intrigued with Jon and when he is suspected of a crime, Emma stands up to say he was with her.
I enjoyed their story.
February 3, 2020
Every Bit a Rogue is the fourth book in The Ellinghams series.
Rating: 4 stars
I really liked it. The main characters were very likable and I liked how their romance took a nice pace to grow. They are at first very attracted to each other and are compatible during sexy times. Though they feel this connection to each other they are both hesitant to take it one step further, which is to open up their hearts to one another. I liked how they felt overwhelmed with their feelings and did not know what to do with them. This is because they had had their hearts broken when they believed themselves in love with someone before.
I have not read the previous three books in the series but I feel this one could be read as a stand alone. Previous characters do appear but the author did a good job of giving us little tidbits of how they connected to Emma and Jon.
Thank you to Kensington Books (Zebra) for the ARC provided through NetGalley for review.
Rating: 4 stars
I really liked it. The main characters were very likable and I liked how their romance took a nice pace to grow. They are at first very attracted to each other and are compatible during sexy times. Though they feel this connection to each other they are both hesitant to take it one step further, which is to open up their hearts to one another. I liked how they felt overwhelmed with their feelings and did not know what to do with them. This is because they had had their hearts broken when they believed themselves in love with someone before.
I have not read the previous three books in the series but I feel this one could be read as a stand alone. Previous characters do appear but the author did a good job of giving us little tidbits of how they connected to Emma and Jon.
Thank you to Kensington Books (Zebra) for the ARC provided through NetGalley for review.
February 18, 2020
This was a delightful and swoon worthy read and the author did not disappoint with Jon and Emma's story.
This story is a bit different in that both main characters are in love with someone else but have had their hearts broken and when circumstances forces them to get married, they both must learn to let go of the past and try to make their marriage work. I loved how they interacted with each other and didn't fight the heated passion that built up between them. The caring and respect went a long way in making this story such a delight.
Both are such strong characters and you can't help but feel so happy for them when they finally reach their HEA. Loved the epilogue as well, made me finish reading the book with a huge grin on my face:)
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story is a bit different in that both main characters are in love with someone else but have had their hearts broken and when circumstances forces them to get married, they both must learn to let go of the past and try to make their marriage work. I loved how they interacted with each other and didn't fight the heated passion that built up between them. The caring and respect went a long way in making this story such a delight.
Both are such strong characters and you can't help but feel so happy for them when they finally reach their HEA. Loved the epilogue as well, made me finish reading the book with a huge grin on my face:)
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 22, 2020
I think this might be my new favorite romance trope - if it even counts as that. Two people who both start off the story in love with someone else but find true love with each other. Is that a thing? If not - it should be! Jon, Viscount Kendall, is left at the altar at the beginning of the story. His former fiance says she wants "more." Jon is devastated by the events - having loved his fiance "deeply." Emma has spent the last few years dealing with the consequences of her unrequited love for Sebastian. Emma fell in love with Sebastian when she was very young - and he rebuffed her telling her he loved her as a sister. This pretty much wrecked Emma and turned her off of social life for the most part.
Emma and Jon are both definitely broken when they first meet. They start to get to know each other when Emma discovers Jon's engineering project of a threshing machine. She is inspired by it as an artist and wants to see and learn more about it. But Jon is reluctant to share anything more because he is worried about being open about his ideas. They get caught in the rain together and end up spending the night alone in Jon's workshop. a turn of events related to that forces them into a marriage to save Emma's reputation.
Jon doesn't know anything about Emma's unrequited love for Sebastian. In fact no one does - except for Sebastian. But moving forward into marriage - both Jon and Emma want a real marriage - sex an all! They both start out assuming they won't love each other, but they will find companionship and family. For both of them, however, it quickly turns in to more.
There are a lot of missteps on both their parts - but as they get to know each other it is clear that the love they had for their former chosen partners was different and not as fully formed as the love they find in each other.
Overall - this is a story about second chances at love after being hurt badly. Both Emma and Jon mature significantly during the book and learn a lot about themselves.
Overall - I just really really liked everything about this book. The only thing that bothered me was .
This is a great regency read - one of the best I have read in a while!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all mine.
Emma and Jon are both definitely broken when they first meet. They start to get to know each other when Emma discovers Jon's engineering project of a threshing machine. She is inspired by it as an artist and wants to see and learn more about it. But Jon is reluctant to share anything more because he is worried about being open about his ideas. They get caught in the rain together and end up spending the night alone in Jon's workshop. a turn of events related to that forces them into a marriage to save Emma's reputation.
Jon doesn't know anything about Emma's unrequited love for Sebastian. In fact no one does - except for Sebastian. But moving forward into marriage - both Jon and Emma want a real marriage - sex an all! They both start out assuming they won't love each other, but they will find companionship and family. For both of them, however, it quickly turns in to more.
There are a lot of missteps on both their parts - but as they get to know each other it is clear that the love they had for their former chosen partners was different and not as fully formed as the love they find in each other.
Overall - this is a story about second chances at love after being hurt badly. Both Emma and Jon mature significantly during the book and learn a lot about themselves.
Overall - I just really really liked everything about this book. The only thing that bothered me was .
This is a great regency read - one of the best I have read in a while!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all mine.
February 17, 2020
I enjoyed this regency romance. The main characters are easy to like. Both have loved before, aren't looking for love again, but circumstances change.
I didn't care for the other woman and other man drama, plus the awkward admirer.
This really should be named Every Bit a Gentleman; the hero is kind, honorable, and prefers country over town.
There is behind the bedroom door intimacy that happens after marriage and it tastefully described.
I voluntarily read an ARC from Netgalley.
I didn't care for the other woman and other man drama, plus the awkward admirer.
This really should be named Every Bit a Gentleman; the hero is kind, honorable, and prefers country over town.
There is behind the bedroom door intimacy that happens after marriage and it tastefully described.
I voluntarily read an ARC from Netgalley.
January 20, 2020
#EveryBitaRogue #NetGalley
⭐⭐
Jon and Emma are two heartbroken people who are forced by circumstances to marry. They promise to be partners to each other but - surprise! - end up falling in love.
This the 4th book in a series I have not read. It reads fine as a standalone but, man there is a lot backstory on all these people!
I liked how many positive, loving relationships were depicted in this book (another side effect of being book #4) and I enjoyed Emma and Jon's personalities. The author took time to sketch out their separate personality outside of each other and how they grow and change with one another.
Some of the things that kept me from 3 stars were that some parts of the story were a little thin (There's a murder mystery that kinda went nowhere). The 3rd person narrative kept including T'was (t'would, t'etc) which just took me right out of it. I kept thinking it was dialogue because every other part of the narrative was modern English.
Also.... The machine and Emma's artistic obsession with it. I just didn't follow. I appreciated the authors attempt to discuss that it was a strange inspiration, buuuuuuut I didn't buy it. Also, Emma's thought process and dialogue with regard to this inspiration was decidedly odd. She kept referring to it as "his glorious machine"; "Lord Kendall's magnificent machine" and (not kidding) “I confess that I have been constantly thinking about your machine since I first saw it." I know we're supposed to be talking about farm equipment, but doesn anyone else feel like this a a euphemism for some other kinda equipment? 😜
Aside from those minor items, this was an easy fluff read. If you've read the rest of the series, you may want to pick this up since you get an updates on all the other characters.
⭐⭐
Jon and Emma are two heartbroken people who are forced by circumstances to marry. They promise to be partners to each other but - surprise! - end up falling in love.
This the 4th book in a series I have not read. It reads fine as a standalone but, man there is a lot backstory on all these people!
I liked how many positive, loving relationships were depicted in this book (another side effect of being book #4) and I enjoyed Emma and Jon's personalities. The author took time to sketch out their separate personality outside of each other and how they grow and change with one another.
Some of the things that kept me from 3 stars were that some parts of the story were a little thin (There's a murder mystery that kinda went nowhere). The 3rd person narrative kept including T'was (t'would, t'etc) which just took me right out of it. I kept thinking it was dialogue because every other part of the narrative was modern English.
Also.... The machine and Emma's artistic obsession with it. I just didn't follow. I appreciated the authors attempt to discuss that it was a strange inspiration, buuuuuuut I didn't buy it. Also, Emma's thought process and dialogue with regard to this inspiration was decidedly odd. She kept referring to it as "his glorious machine"; "Lord Kendall's magnificent machine" and (not kidding) “I confess that I have been constantly thinking about your machine since I first saw it." I know we're supposed to be talking about farm equipment, but doesn anyone else feel like this a a euphemism for some other kinda equipment? 😜
Aside from those minor items, this was an easy fluff read. If you've read the rest of the series, you may want to pick this up since you get an updates on all the other characters.
February 26, 2020
This is a story about two creative people who have been rejected by other suitors and believe that they will never find love again. I very much enjoyed Emma and Jon’s story. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.
March 16, 2020
This is a fantastic read!!
Jon the jilted groom and Emma the heartbroken & somewhat scandalised single woman. Match made in heaven - if only they can give love a chance.
Loved the dual POV & the witty banter between the characters. Great supporting characters. It’s an emotional slow burn with a good dose of heat for a HR Story. Even though it’s book 4 it can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
I received an arc of this book.
Jon the jilted groom and Emma the heartbroken & somewhat scandalised single woman. Match made in heaven - if only they can give love a chance.
Loved the dual POV & the witty banter between the characters. Great supporting characters. It’s an emotional slow burn with a good dose of heat for a HR Story. Even though it’s book 4 it can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
I received an arc of this book.
August 2, 2020
After being jilted at the alter, Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, retreats to his estate to work on a mechanical invention. Miss Emma Ellingham, his neighbor’s sister-in-law, accidentally crosses properties and stumbles upon Jon’s workshop. His machine inspires Emma’s artistic impulses and she finds Jon just as interesting. When Jon is accused of a crime, Emma speaks up in his defense, putting her own reputation at risk and sparking a marriage proposal.
This is the fourth book in the Ellinghams series. I haven’t read the other books in the series and it works as a stand alone. However, Emma does have a history with someone and I wonder if it was introduced in the other books. Otherwise it seemed like a needless side plot.
This book was fine, but forgettable. The characters were likable, but not memorable. It was a nice read, but I can’t find anything terribly positive or negative to say about it. It was just middle of the road.
This is the fourth book in the Ellinghams series. I haven’t read the other books in the series and it works as a stand alone. However, Emma does have a history with someone and I wonder if it was introduced in the other books. Otherwise it seemed like a needless side plot.
This book was fine, but forgettable. The characters were likable, but not memorable. It was a nice read, but I can’t find anything terribly positive or negative to say about it. It was just middle of the road.
February 20, 2020
Spicy romantic suspense, Every Bit a Rogue is a delicious and quick read! I adore historical fiction, it is a great way to take a break and stimulate the imagination!! Book 4 in a series, Every Bit a Rogue is fine as a stand alone book, and I did not feel like I missed anything by not reading the other books. I like the characters. First of all, Jon and Emma are truly likable characters despite their small flaws. The supporting characters, good and bad are just as interesting!
When art, invention, mystery, murder and romance are tossed together you either get a recipe for disaster or a really, really engaging read! Fortunately, I enjoyed Every Bit a Rogue very much although I did find that Jon's fascination with the shallow Diana was annoying. Definitely worth reading!
Thank you to NetGalley, Adrienne Basso, and Kensington Books for this temporary, digital advance reader copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinion is mine alone.
#EveryBitaRogue #NetGalley
When art, invention, mystery, murder and romance are tossed together you either get a recipe for disaster or a really, really engaging read! Fortunately, I enjoyed Every Bit a Rogue very much although I did find that Jon's fascination with the shallow Diana was annoying. Definitely worth reading!
Thank you to NetGalley, Adrienne Basso, and Kensington Books for this temporary, digital advance reader copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinion is mine alone.
#EveryBitaRogue #NetGalley
January 4, 2020
Jon is going to have to teach his wife's pup how to share, “well, he damn well better get used to it,” Jon replied gruffly. “As I intend for it to occur quite often.” I liked this book, I really loved Emma and Jon.
January 22, 2020
Was read as a standalone, thank you to netgalley for the book.
Found some of the writing a little cringe worthy and the story a bit slow for about half of it. The HEA was lovely though.
Found some of the writing a little cringe worthy and the story a bit slow for about half of it. The HEA was lovely though.
March 2, 2020
This was a delightful and swoon worthy read and the author did not disappoint with Jon and Emma's story.
May 30, 2020
I appreciated the hero and heroine going on their own journeys to reconcile their pasts.
March 5, 2020
📚📚📚BOOK🇬🇧REVIEW📚📚📚
Book: Every Bit a Rogue
by Adrienne Basso
Series: The Ellinghams #4
Released On: February 25, 2020
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: Smoking Hot!🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts
England 1824
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, had been humiliated on his wedding day, since his bride-to-be stood him up at the altar! His betrothed Dianna Winthrope, didn’t even have the grace to let him know before the ceremony. He gets a letter from her brother at the wedding, that she had written breaking her promises! No instead, she humiliated him with a church full of guests! Not only that, but this very shallow, selfish and spoiled woman, who wanted expensive bobbles, frocks, very specific and expensive items and food for the wedding. In addition Dianna implored to see many European cities for their wedding travel tour. Jon agreed to everything even though he couldn’t afford it, he still wanted to make his fiancé happy. So he stiffened the property and everyday income, went without personal necessities to pay for the wedding and overpriced wedding trip. As he could not afford these expenses and would put pressure on his cash flow for some time.
Dianna Winthrope still didn’t show up for the huge fancy wedding she dreamed of! Jon wanted a small country wedding-not this big huge affair. Yet he wanted to make his bride happy! He was heartbroken and confused, not understanding what he did wrong until he read she ran off with another man. Jon went into isolation after that, but found a perfect retreat. A mechanical project, instead to keep his brilliant, scientific, mind occupied. After his public humiliation and rejection he was staying away from shallow, cold-hearted women!
Jon knows what the gossip-mongers claim, he has withdrawn from society due to his runaway bride! He is half insane putting himself in self exile from society after his wedding fiasco! He is a drunk in despair! There were so many rumors it was hard to keep up. Now he puts all his energy into his invention, but his neighbor’s sister-in-law Emma Ellingham, is dealing with her own broken heart and unrequited love. Emma had been at Jon’s wedding, even though they were strangers, she was invited because of her brother-in- law being a neighbor and Marquees, next in line for the Dukedom of Hansborough. Emma was now living with them, it would have been rude not to invite her.
It is a year later, Emma Ellingham remembered how Viscount Kendall, was jilted by a runaway bride and understands his misery and broken heart. She has one as well, yet no one knows of her unrequited love and rejection from her brother-in-laws friend, Viscount Sebastian Dodd, Viscount Tindall, now Earl of Tindall. Emma is a very talented painter, but hasn’t picked up her brush and paints in years, since her heart was shattered, years ago. Now she accidentally bumps into Jon’s new invention while checking out her brother-inlaws property. Surprisingly Viscount Kendall’s metal thresher invention is the first thing that has given her inspiration to sketch and paint in so many years! It was definitely shocking but absolutely breathtaking too!
Jon is not thrilled by his new, nosy, neighbor, Emma, interloping on his secret invention! This invention will hopefully be a way for future farmers and landowners to farm more efficiently and effectively in the future. Plus he does not want the wrong people to see his invention and steal his ideas. Jon sees Emma has sketched from memory, plus is extremely talented, by viewing Emma’s sketches. He does not completely trust her, as most artists sketch and paint portraits or landscapes, not bloody metal machines! Plus Jon and his partner have a lot riding on this, if it falls into unscrupulous hands, they could steal it and claim it is their idea! Plus it isn’t even finished yet and they have put so much time and work into this project already.
Emma Ellingham, talented painter, dealing with her own broken heart herself. She promises never to share, but he still denies her permission to paint his invention. She is obsessed with this machine, as it is the only thing that has given her inspiration in years! It is like taking her muse away! Of course this is not the only time Jon has seen his beautiful new neighbor as they keep seeing each other as Emma does not take no for an answer
One day Jon sees Dianna, his ex-betrothed and discovers she is married and planning to move back into town. He also notices how her current husband was mentally abusive, blaming their entire scandal on Dianna-not himself. Jon was the exact opposite of this man, he was shocked how different Dianna had become. She looked unhappy and miserable, she was meek and submissive. She wasn’t the happy, cheerful, joyful, woman he once knew. Jon couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, but could tell she rejected her actions and decisions too. Jon also realized he could never have made her happy, especially if she could be persuaded so easily, by a known unscrupulous, scoundrel, like Gerald Dickenson! It had been the night before their wedding after all, only a few sweet words and obviously broken promises had so easily turned Dianna’s head.
That evening he found Emma lost in the woods in a storm near his workshop. They ended up having a drink, sharing a kiss and accidentally fell asleep and Emma wakes the following morning. She knows she has to get to home fast before anyone wakes up yet she heard awful new. It seems Dianna’s new husband, Gerald Dickerson, Lord Brayer was found murdered this morning, however two of the servants are saying they saw Jon and Lord Brayer arguing late last night and a couple hours later Brayer was found dead with a dagger in his chest!
So Jon was in custody and Emma did not careabout a scandal, she was not going to let Jon rot in prison. She knew there was a chance the real killers might never be found, sometimes innocent people are sent to jail or executed for crimes they did not commit! The hell with the ton,plus she would be forgiven due to her titled brother-in-law and family connections. She did not care about sandals, or not being invited to certain balls, parties, or dinners by the snobbish ton! Yet of course putting herself and reputation on the line, Jon did the gentlemanly thing and proposed and Emma accepted. It was the last thing she wanted, but how could she refuse when he offered physical freedom and independent lives. Emma absolutely refused and let it be known she wanted several children.
So will this marriage even survive under conditions like this? The first new family member,l was a dog the size of a small horse that Emma absolutely loved. Just to see joy this four legged mongrel brought was enough to see this marriage might possibly survive. It just might melt and open both their closed off frozen hearts. Will they thaw and melt or stay frozen and closed off forever? Plus Emma does not even share her story of rejection, unrequited love, of Sebastian Dodd, who also married another. As they both have more in common than Jon realizes. They seem to be a perfect fit in all ways except honesty and openness.
Will this marriage of convenience work? Will Emma’s secret past catch up and ruin any chance they have? Plus a surprise visit to Emma’s past and Jon’s true feelings are soon to be revealed! Will it destroy everything they have built so far? Is it too little too late? Read this phenomenal tale and find out in The Ellinghams fourth novel which I highly recommend.
Revisiting The Ellingham’s fourth regency historical novel which I absolutely loved. Ms Basso pens another unique, riveting, page-turner that will definitely blow readers away! It has all the elements that regency historical readers love. In addition, if you are a dog lover like me, there is a furry fellow named Sir Galahad, that absolutely melted my heart! I loved that this rejected man at the altar found another healthy alternative. Especially when his ex fiancé caused so much sadness and turmoil in his life. Yet he found something constructive and meaningful instead of trying to have himself killed, like going to battle on the frontline, insulting the King or becoming a traitor or getting a STD or something dire at the local brothel! I loved he was building a useful invention that will help the future landowners and farmers of the world.
This was pure genius! Well Done Adrienne Basso! Of course the setting was magnificent, the plotting was absolutely mind-blowing, dialogue was breathtaking and characters were multi demential and inspiring. It is a novel you can read as a stand alone book or in series order. It’s a win/win no matter what the reader decides. No matter what readers decide,0 it is a definite must read I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy and an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/Every-Rogue-El...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/every-...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/every...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?Que...
Book: Every Bit a Rogue
by Adrienne Basso
Series: The Ellinghams #4
Released On: February 25, 2020
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: Smoking Hot!🔥🔥🔥
Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts
England 1824
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, had been humiliated on his wedding day, since his bride-to-be stood him up at the altar! His betrothed Dianna Winthrope, didn’t even have the grace to let him know before the ceremony. He gets a letter from her brother at the wedding, that she had written breaking her promises! No instead, she humiliated him with a church full of guests! Not only that, but this very shallow, selfish and spoiled woman, who wanted expensive bobbles, frocks, very specific and expensive items and food for the wedding. In addition Dianna implored to see many European cities for their wedding travel tour. Jon agreed to everything even though he couldn’t afford it, he still wanted to make his fiancé happy. So he stiffened the property and everyday income, went without personal necessities to pay for the wedding and overpriced wedding trip. As he could not afford these expenses and would put pressure on his cash flow for some time.
Dianna Winthrope still didn’t show up for the huge fancy wedding she dreamed of! Jon wanted a small country wedding-not this big huge affair. Yet he wanted to make his bride happy! He was heartbroken and confused, not understanding what he did wrong until he read she ran off with another man. Jon went into isolation after that, but found a perfect retreat. A mechanical project, instead to keep his brilliant, scientific, mind occupied. After his public humiliation and rejection he was staying away from shallow, cold-hearted women!
Jon knows what the gossip-mongers claim, he has withdrawn from society due to his runaway bride! He is half insane putting himself in self exile from society after his wedding fiasco! He is a drunk in despair! There were so many rumors it was hard to keep up. Now he puts all his energy into his invention, but his neighbor’s sister-in-law Emma Ellingham, is dealing with her own broken heart and unrequited love. Emma had been at Jon’s wedding, even though they were strangers, she was invited because of her brother-in- law being a neighbor and Marquees, next in line for the Dukedom of Hansborough. Emma was now living with them, it would have been rude not to invite her.
It is a year later, Emma Ellingham remembered how Viscount Kendall, was jilted by a runaway bride and understands his misery and broken heart. She has one as well, yet no one knows of her unrequited love and rejection from her brother-in-laws friend, Viscount Sebastian Dodd, Viscount Tindall, now Earl of Tindall. Emma is a very talented painter, but hasn’t picked up her brush and paints in years, since her heart was shattered, years ago. Now she accidentally bumps into Jon’s new invention while checking out her brother-inlaws property. Surprisingly Viscount Kendall’s metal thresher invention is the first thing that has given her inspiration to sketch and paint in so many years! It was definitely shocking but absolutely breathtaking too!
Jon is not thrilled by his new, nosy, neighbor, Emma, interloping on his secret invention! This invention will hopefully be a way for future farmers and landowners to farm more efficiently and effectively in the future. Plus he does not want the wrong people to see his invention and steal his ideas. Jon sees Emma has sketched from memory, plus is extremely talented, by viewing Emma’s sketches. He does not completely trust her, as most artists sketch and paint portraits or landscapes, not bloody metal machines! Plus Jon and his partner have a lot riding on this, if it falls into unscrupulous hands, they could steal it and claim it is their idea! Plus it isn’t even finished yet and they have put so much time and work into this project already.
Emma Ellingham, talented painter, dealing with her own broken heart herself. She promises never to share, but he still denies her permission to paint his invention. She is obsessed with this machine, as it is the only thing that has given her inspiration in years! It is like taking her muse away! Of course this is not the only time Jon has seen his beautiful new neighbor as they keep seeing each other as Emma does not take no for an answer
One day Jon sees Dianna, his ex-betrothed and discovers she is married and planning to move back into town. He also notices how her current husband was mentally abusive, blaming their entire scandal on Dianna-not himself. Jon was the exact opposite of this man, he was shocked how different Dianna had become. She looked unhappy and miserable, she was meek and submissive. She wasn’t the happy, cheerful, joyful, woman he once knew. Jon couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, but could tell she rejected her actions and decisions too. Jon also realized he could never have made her happy, especially if she could be persuaded so easily, by a known unscrupulous, scoundrel, like Gerald Dickenson! It had been the night before their wedding after all, only a few sweet words and obviously broken promises had so easily turned Dianna’s head.
That evening he found Emma lost in the woods in a storm near his workshop. They ended up having a drink, sharing a kiss and accidentally fell asleep and Emma wakes the following morning. She knows she has to get to home fast before anyone wakes up yet she heard awful new. It seems Dianna’s new husband, Gerald Dickerson, Lord Brayer was found murdered this morning, however two of the servants are saying they saw Jon and Lord Brayer arguing late last night and a couple hours later Brayer was found dead with a dagger in his chest!
So Jon was in custody and Emma did not careabout a scandal, she was not going to let Jon rot in prison. She knew there was a chance the real killers might never be found, sometimes innocent people are sent to jail or executed for crimes they did not commit! The hell with the ton,plus she would be forgiven due to her titled brother-in-law and family connections. She did not care about sandals, or not being invited to certain balls, parties, or dinners by the snobbish ton! Yet of course putting herself and reputation on the line, Jon did the gentlemanly thing and proposed and Emma accepted. It was the last thing she wanted, but how could she refuse when he offered physical freedom and independent lives. Emma absolutely refused and let it be known she wanted several children.
So will this marriage even survive under conditions like this? The first new family member,l was a dog the size of a small horse that Emma absolutely loved. Just to see joy this four legged mongrel brought was enough to see this marriage might possibly survive. It just might melt and open both their closed off frozen hearts. Will they thaw and melt or stay frozen and closed off forever? Plus Emma does not even share her story of rejection, unrequited love, of Sebastian Dodd, who also married another. As they both have more in common than Jon realizes. They seem to be a perfect fit in all ways except honesty and openness.
Will this marriage of convenience work? Will Emma’s secret past catch up and ruin any chance they have? Plus a surprise visit to Emma’s past and Jon’s true feelings are soon to be revealed! Will it destroy everything they have built so far? Is it too little too late? Read this phenomenal tale and find out in The Ellinghams fourth novel which I highly recommend.
Revisiting The Ellingham’s fourth regency historical novel which I absolutely loved. Ms Basso pens another unique, riveting, page-turner that will definitely blow readers away! It has all the elements that regency historical readers love. In addition, if you are a dog lover like me, there is a furry fellow named Sir Galahad, that absolutely melted my heart! I loved that this rejected man at the altar found another healthy alternative. Especially when his ex fiancé caused so much sadness and turmoil in his life. Yet he found something constructive and meaningful instead of trying to have himself killed, like going to battle on the frontline, insulting the King or becoming a traitor or getting a STD or something dire at the local brothel! I loved he was building a useful invention that will help the future landowners and farmers of the world.
This was pure genius! Well Done Adrienne Basso! Of course the setting was magnificent, the plotting was absolutely mind-blowing, dialogue was breathtaking and characters were multi demential and inspiring. It is a novel you can read as a stand alone book or in series order. It’s a win/win no matter what the reader decides. No matter what readers decide,0 it is a definite must read I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy and an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/Every-Rogue-El...
https://m.barnesandnoble.com/w/every-...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/every...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?Que...
January 20, 2020
This story is well written and captivating. A second chance for two really nice people. Jon is a great guy who was left at the altar. Emma gave up on love when the man she lived told her he loved her as a sister.
Lots happening in this story! Murder, big dog, inventions...great read.
Lots happening in this story! Murder, big dog, inventions...great read.
March 14, 2020
4.5 stars
Since he was jilted at the alter nearly a year ago, Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall has all but retired from society, channeling all of his unspent passion into innovative mechanical inventions. Because of his absence, society has deemed him a half-mad recluse, but he has no care for London gossips.
Emma Ellingham has found solace in her art since her own love did not reciprocate her feelings, but now she has lost her creative spark. Her ideas begin to flow again when she inadvertently finds Lord Kendall's workshop and sees his new machine. She finds the man who invented it to be even more interesting and their repeated encounters shake up his quiet life.
When Jon finds himself accused of murder, Emma sacrifices her reputation to prove the truth of his innocence, obliging them to marry in hopes of mitigating further scandal. There's plenty of desire between them but they've both been hurt before and are afraid of opening their hearts again and their happiness is far from assured.
This was a lovely, well-written story. There was a slight lag in the second half as compared to the first, but the writing was so lovely that I really didn't mind. Both Jon and Emma had past hurts to overcome and I almost lost patience with Emma, but she eventually redeemed herself and Jon was really lovely. I was pleased to see these two work out their issues in a mature way without a lot of unnecessary or over-the-top angst, which I had feared would happen given Emma's unrequited love storyline. These two wound up being great together and I loved the writing so much I now want to go back and read the rest of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Since he was jilted at the alter nearly a year ago, Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall has all but retired from society, channeling all of his unspent passion into innovative mechanical inventions. Because of his absence, society has deemed him a half-mad recluse, but he has no care for London gossips.
Emma Ellingham has found solace in her art since her own love did not reciprocate her feelings, but now she has lost her creative spark. Her ideas begin to flow again when she inadvertently finds Lord Kendall's workshop and sees his new machine. She finds the man who invented it to be even more interesting and their repeated encounters shake up his quiet life.
When Jon finds himself accused of murder, Emma sacrifices her reputation to prove the truth of his innocence, obliging them to marry in hopes of mitigating further scandal. There's plenty of desire between them but they've both been hurt before and are afraid of opening their hearts again and their happiness is far from assured.
This was a lovely, well-written story. There was a slight lag in the second half as compared to the first, but the writing was so lovely that I really didn't mind. Both Jon and Emma had past hurts to overcome and I almost lost patience with Emma, but she eventually redeemed herself and Jon was really lovely. I was pleased to see these two work out their issues in a mature way without a lot of unnecessary or over-the-top angst, which I had feared would happen given Emma's unrequited love storyline. These two wound up being great together and I loved the writing so much I now want to go back and read the rest of the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
February 14, 2020
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jon Burwell was jilted at the altar. Emma Ellingham was rejected by a man who saw her as his sister. When chance sees them spend the night alone together, which must be revealed to prove Jon's innocence, they have to quickly wed. Naturally, romance ensues.
I am a sucker for "married to escape scandal" storylines and this was no exception. I really enjoyed reading about Emma and Jon's deepening relationship and I liked seeing them overcome the pain in their respective pasts, which allowed them to move forward together. You don't usually see depth like that in these romances.
Jon Burwell was jilted at the altar. Emma Ellingham was rejected by a man who saw her as his sister. When chance sees them spend the night alone together, which must be revealed to prove Jon's innocence, they have to quickly wed. Naturally, romance ensues.
I am a sucker for "married to escape scandal" storylines and this was no exception. I really enjoyed reading about Emma and Jon's deepening relationship and I liked seeing them overcome the pain in their respective pasts, which allowed them to move forward together. You don't usually see depth like that in these romances.
November 26, 2019
Basso returns with a splash to historical romance with the highly anticipated continuation of The Ellinghams series. Emma Ellingham is an untraditional woman, living in Victorian England. She is without desire for a husband, her one wish is to gain back her artistic motivation. Due to a broken heart her art seems to be lost forever, that is until she stumbles upon a mysterious machine and the man who is building it. Jon Burwell strives to overcome being jilted at the altar and noxious rumors by immersing himself in his scientific pursuits. When Emma and Jon become unexpectantly bound in marriage to avoid scandalous ruin, will their respect and physical passion turn into love? Basso continues her steamy and engaging stories with feisty outspoken Emma and unassuming Jon. Perfect for fans of Beverly Jenkins, Courtney Milan, and Kathryn Caskie.
March 18, 2020
I enjoyed the beginning and I really loved the ending. The rest, I am not so sure. It isn't that it was bad, not at all; just that I couldn't warm up to it. For instance, I would have liked the heroine's talent to be a bit more present and protagonist in the plot.
Both hero and heroine are nice, in theory, I definitely enjoyed their banters but I wish the story could have been more focused on their relationship, rather than adding sub-plots.
Also I haven't really understood the need to include the hero's former fiancée's husband death, if not in praparation of an HR where she is protagonist, I found it a bit pointless to be included to this extent...
I received an ARC. Thanks for the opportunity
Both hero and heroine are nice, in theory, I definitely enjoyed their banters but I wish the story could have been more focused on their relationship, rather than adding sub-plots.
Also I haven't really understood the need to include the hero's former fiancée's husband death, if not in praparation of an HR where she is protagonist, I found it a bit pointless to be included to this extent...
I received an ARC. Thanks for the opportunity
April 13, 2020
Jon and Emma have several things in common. Both are very decent, good people. Jon was madly in love with his fiancée and is recovering from her jilting him at the alter. Emma is still recovering years after the man she loved did not return her feelings. Jon is an inventor and Emma an artist who has lost her passion for art until she sees Jon’s invention. (It was hard to believe that an artist who painted portraits and landscapes could be inspired by a machine.)
There’s a murder, an alibi that leads to a hasty marriage and the two main characters getting to know each other in and out of bed.
The title doesn’t make sense.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
There’s a murder, an alibi that leads to a hasty marriage and the two main characters getting to know each other in and out of bed.
The title doesn’t make sense.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
April 14, 2020
This is part of a series, and I haven't read any of the others, but this wasn't an issue. Each book features a new couple with some cross-over. While there was nothing wrong with this book, it didn't hold my interest. There was nothing special that made the characters or the plot stand out. It reads like so many other historical romances. Formulaic in its plot and characters.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 2, 2020
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-19x
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, is standing at the altar, eagerly waiting for his fiancée to make her trip down the aisle. He finally receives word that she has run off with another man. Heartbroken, Jon retreats from society, and devotes his time to working on building a machine that will revolutionize farming.
Emma Ellingham lives with her sister and brother-in-law on the estate next to Jon’s. Though she didn’t know Jon, she was present at his (almost) wedding, and felt such empathy for him, as she knows what it’s like to have your love not returned. Emma was deeply in love with Sebastian, but when she told him so, he let her know that he loved her, but only as a friend or a sister. Sebastian married someone else, and Emma seemed to lose her muse for painting. She had been a very talented artist, but can’t find inspiration anymore.
About a year after Jon’s jilting, Emma stumbles upon the building where Jon is working on a threshing machine. Finding the door unlocked, Emma goes in, and is immediately fascinated by the gears and intricacy of the machine. Oddly, she feels compelled to draw it, something that has eluded her for years. Jon is none too happy to find Emma in his building. He has hopes to patent his invention once he’s finessed out the bugs, and secrecy is important. Though Emma asks his permission to stay, Jon turns her down.
On another of Emma’s jaunts, she gets caught in a nasty storm, and is rescued by Jon. They innocently seek shelter for the duration, sharing some surprisingly good conversation. Eventually, when the weather clears, Emma steals away back home, eager that no one become aware of where she had been. Though it would appear there are no repercussions from their spending sizable time alone together, Jon becomes the victim of a false accusation, with Emma as his only alibi. Being a gentleman to the core, Jon does not mention that he was with Emma and couldn’t have committed the crime.
Emma’s conscience won’t let her stay silent, so she confesses that she was with Jon, who then immediately seeks her out with an offer of marriage. Though Emma had thought never to marry, since she couldn’t have the man she loved, Jon wins her consent with his plea of friendship, fidelity, and creating a family. Emma agrees, and they quickly marry. Since they are both eager for a family, they share a physical relationship which turns out to be absolutely steamy and satisfying. Their interactions out of the bedroom are also fun, honest, and warm.
I am so totally in love with EVERY BIT A ROGUE, as it has a bit of friends-to-lovers, friends with benefits, forced marriage, and second love. Both Jon and Emma are wonderful characters who shared the experience of losing their first loves. It took them time to realize that they actually were falling in love with each other, and were slowly letting go of the past. They both had to confront their past loves in the flesh to come to realize what they have in the present. This is my first experience in reading Adrienne Basso, and I’m so impressed with her writing. EVERY BIT A ROGUE flowed beautifully, from the conversations, to the scenes of self discovery, to the passionate interludes. This is actually the fourth book of the series, but it can easily be read on its own. However, I will definitely be reading the rest, especially Sebastian’s story, as his appearance in this book really intrigued me. I recommend EVERY BIT A ROGUE for all historical romance readers who enjoy a warm and steamy romance, particularly those who love to see deserving characters who once lost at love, strike gold the second time around.
Jon Burwell, Viscount Kendall, is standing at the altar, eagerly waiting for his fiancée to make her trip down the aisle. He finally receives word that she has run off with another man. Heartbroken, Jon retreats from society, and devotes his time to working on building a machine that will revolutionize farming.
Emma Ellingham lives with her sister and brother-in-law on the estate next to Jon’s. Though she didn’t know Jon, she was present at his (almost) wedding, and felt such empathy for him, as she knows what it’s like to have your love not returned. Emma was deeply in love with Sebastian, but when she told him so, he let her know that he loved her, but only as a friend or a sister. Sebastian married someone else, and Emma seemed to lose her muse for painting. She had been a very talented artist, but can’t find inspiration anymore.
About a year after Jon’s jilting, Emma stumbles upon the building where Jon is working on a threshing machine. Finding the door unlocked, Emma goes in, and is immediately fascinated by the gears and intricacy of the machine. Oddly, she feels compelled to draw it, something that has eluded her for years. Jon is none too happy to find Emma in his building. He has hopes to patent his invention once he’s finessed out the bugs, and secrecy is important. Though Emma asks his permission to stay, Jon turns her down.
On another of Emma’s jaunts, she gets caught in a nasty storm, and is rescued by Jon. They innocently seek shelter for the duration, sharing some surprisingly good conversation. Eventually, when the weather clears, Emma steals away back home, eager that no one become aware of where she had been. Though it would appear there are no repercussions from their spending sizable time alone together, Jon becomes the victim of a false accusation, with Emma as his only alibi. Being a gentleman to the core, Jon does not mention that he was with Emma and couldn’t have committed the crime.
Emma’s conscience won’t let her stay silent, so she confesses that she was with Jon, who then immediately seeks her out with an offer of marriage. Though Emma had thought never to marry, since she couldn’t have the man she loved, Jon wins her consent with his plea of friendship, fidelity, and creating a family. Emma agrees, and they quickly marry. Since they are both eager for a family, they share a physical relationship which turns out to be absolutely steamy and satisfying. Their interactions out of the bedroom are also fun, honest, and warm.
I am so totally in love with EVERY BIT A ROGUE, as it has a bit of friends-to-lovers, friends with benefits, forced marriage, and second love. Both Jon and Emma are wonderful characters who shared the experience of losing their first loves. It took them time to realize that they actually were falling in love with each other, and were slowly letting go of the past. They both had to confront their past loves in the flesh to come to realize what they have in the present. This is my first experience in reading Adrienne Basso, and I’m so impressed with her writing. EVERY BIT A ROGUE flowed beautifully, from the conversations, to the scenes of self discovery, to the passionate interludes. This is actually the fourth book of the series, but it can easily be read on its own. However, I will definitely be reading the rest, especially Sebastian’s story, as his appearance in this book really intrigued me. I recommend EVERY BIT A ROGUE for all historical romance readers who enjoy a warm and steamy romance, particularly those who love to see deserving characters who once lost at love, strike gold the second time around.
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