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The Little Season #3
Il giuramento del visconte
Una promessa è una promessa, anche quando sconvolge la vita di uno spensierato visconte.
Londra, 1815
Quando Darby Travers, Visconte Nailbourne, sul campo di battaglia ha giurato al medico che gli aveva appena salvato la vita di occuparsi della sua figlioletta se gli fosse accaduto qualcosa, non immaginava certo che avrebbe dovuto onorare tale promessa. Invece ora, qualche anno dopo, si trova sulla porta di casa la piccola di cui dovrà prendersi cura. Oltretutto accompagnata dalla più diffidente, fastidiosa e affascinante donna che lui abbia mai incontrato, sua zia Sadie. Per quanto sagace e sicuro di sé, come potrà Darby sopravvivere a una bimba di sette anni che gli rivoluziona l'esistenza e all'incantevole Sadie, che a ogni respiro gli confonde mente e cuore?
Londra, 1815
Quando Darby Travers, Visconte Nailbourne, sul campo di battaglia ha giurato al medico che gli aveva appena salvato la vita di occuparsi della sua figlioletta se gli fosse accaduto qualcosa, non immaginava certo che avrebbe dovuto onorare tale promessa. Invece ora, qualche anno dopo, si trova sulla porta di casa la piccola di cui dovrà prendersi cura. Oltretutto accompagnata dalla più diffidente, fastidiosa e affascinante donna che lui abbia mai incontrato, sua zia Sadie. Per quanto sagace e sicuro di sé, come potrà Darby sopravvivere a una bimba di sette anni che gli rivoluziona l'esistenza e all'incantevole Sadie, che a ogni respiro gli confonde mente e cuore?
301 pages, Paperback
First published July 26, 2016
76 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
Kasey Michaels
307 books541 followersKasey Michaels is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 books (she doesn't count them). Kasey has received three coveted Starred Reviews from Publishers Weekly, two for the historical romances, THE SECRETS OF THE HEART and THE BUTLER DID IT, and a third for contemporary romance LOVE TO LOVE YOU BABY (that shows diversity, you see). She is a recipient of the RITA, a Waldenbooks and Bookrak Bestseller award, and many awards from Romantic Times magazine, including a Career Achievement award for her Regency era historical romances. She is an Honor Roll author in Romance Writers of America, Inc. (RWA)
Kasey has appeared on the TODAY show, and was the subject of a Lifetime Cable TV show "A Better Way," in conjunction with Good Housekeeping magazine, a program devoted to women and how they have achieved career success in the midst of motherhood (short version: "with great difficulty").
A highly praised nonfiction book, written as Kathryn Seidick, "...OR YOU CAN LET HIM GO," details the story of Kasey and her family during the time of her eldest son's first kidney transplant.
Kasey has written Regency romances, Regency historicals, category books including novellas and continuities and a few series "launch" books, and single title contemporaries. She has coped with time travel, ghosts, trilogies, the dark side, the very light side, and just about everything in between. Hers is also the twisted mind behind her ongoing Maggie Kelly mystery series starring a former romance writer turned historical mystery writer whose gorgeous hunk of a fictional hero shows up, live and in color, in her Manhattan living room – to melt her knees, to help her solve murders, and to leave the top off her toothpaste. And, says Kasey, she's just getting started!
Series:
* His Chariot Awaits
* Lion On the Prowl
* Crown Family
* London Friends
* Chandlers Request
* The Trehan Brothers
* Maggie Kelly Mystery
* Romney Marsh
* Sunshine Girls
Kasey has appeared on the TODAY show, and was the subject of a Lifetime Cable TV show "A Better Way," in conjunction with Good Housekeeping magazine, a program devoted to women and how they have achieved career success in the midst of motherhood (short version: "with great difficulty").
A highly praised nonfiction book, written as Kathryn Seidick, "...OR YOU CAN LET HIM GO," details the story of Kasey and her family during the time of her eldest son's first kidney transplant.
Kasey has written Regency romances, Regency historicals, category books including novellas and continuities and a few series "launch" books, and single title contemporaries. She has coped with time travel, ghosts, trilogies, the dark side, the very light side, and just about everything in between. Hers is also the twisted mind behind her ongoing Maggie Kelly mystery series starring a former romance writer turned historical mystery writer whose gorgeous hunk of a fictional hero shows up, live and in color, in her Manhattan living room – to melt her knees, to help her solve murders, and to leave the top off her toothpaste. And, says Kasey, she's just getting started!
Series:
* His Chariot Awaits
* Lion On the Prowl
* Crown Family
* London Friends
* Chandlers Request
* The Trehan Brothers
* Maggie Kelly Mystery
* Romney Marsh
* Sunshine Girls
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 8, 2016
Originally published at Reading Reality
The lark of The Little Season continues, even though the birds are mostly confined to cameos this time around.
The entire series has a very high froth quotient. If you are in the mood for a bit of light-hearted entertainment filled with intelligent banter, this series is marvelous. And although each book stands alone, there are characters that continue through the series that readers, or at least this reader, will be glad to see get their happily ever after.
The story in A Reckless Promise is similar in many ways to the other books in the series, but the characters make it every bit as delightful to read as the earlier books. Now that I’ve finished, I can see the patterns, but while the story is rollicking along, it’s just pure fun.
It all goes back to the Napoleonic Wars. The four English officers, Darby, Rigby, Sinclair and Cooper who are the heroes of this series were prisoners of war. They just barely made it out with their lives. Darby, the hero of A Reckless Promise, owes his life to the Army Surgeon who was imprisoned with them, John Hamilton.
And that’s where this story begins. When the four men escaped, they begged the doctor to come with them, but to no avail. Hamilton refused to leave his other patients. But he did extract a promise from Darby that if the doctor did not survive, then Darby, the Viscount Nailbourne, would stand as guardian to his little daughter Marley.
It takes nearly two years for Marley to show up at Darby’s door, with her redoubtable aunt in tow. Darby is more than willing to take care of the child. Not just because a promise is a promise, but because he genuinely likes the seven-year-old spitfire, especially after she kicks him in the shin.
But her aunt, Mrs. Sadie Maxwell Boxer, gives him a great deal of pause. He’s more than willing to take her in as well, but the immediate question in his mind is “take her in as what?” The widowed Mrs. Maxwell is relatively young and surprisingly beautiful. Even though she is a widow, Sadie is much too young to remain as the sole female in his bachelor establishment, no matter how much Marley loves her.
The situation becomes even more dire when Darby figures out that the Mr. Maxwell Boxer he has been desperately trying to find was the doctor’s dog. Mrs. Boxer is really Miss Hamilton, and Darby decides he has to marry her. Or at least that’s the excuse he gives himself for doing what he really wants.
What they both really want.
Escape Rating A-: Just like A Scandalous Proposal, this story is carried by its utterly marvelous piffle. If you are looking for something serious, find another book. This one, and the series, are to be read just for the pure light-hearted fun of it.
At the same time, one of the great but slightly serious things that the author has done with this series is to create unconventional heroines that are easy for the 21st century reader to identify with but who do not seem to be anachronistic. It’s not just that Sadie is a doctor’s sister, but that she was forced to take over much of his practice while he was in the Army. And then to continue that practice after he came home debilitated by the lingering wound which eventually killed him.
Sadie has been forced to act as a professional, to have her advice taken seriously, to run a household, and to think entirely for herself. That’s unusual in society-based Regencies, and makes this series stand out. All four of the heroines, including Clarice Goodfellow who unfortunately does not seem to have a book of her own, are unconventional in ways that seem plausible, and that give them a lot of agency. Even if it’s the kind of agency that their society does not expect from a woman.
In addition to the marvelous banter and developing romance, there is also a serious subplot to this book. Sadie and Marley fled to Nailbourne in secret, out of what turns out to be justifiable fears for Marley’s safety. John Hamilton whisked an heiress away from the life her mother planned for her when he married his Susan. Now that both he and Susan are dead, the family that rejected Susan wants Marley back. John’s last wish was that Sadie make sure they don’t win.
But it isn’t Marley’s grandfather who is trying to claim his only grandchild. Instead, there is a much more nefarious plot afoot that Darby and Sadie must thwart in order to secure Marley’s happiness. But their focus on Marley’s happiness almost gets in the way of their own.
As someone who has read the series, the conclusion to Duke Basil’s birthday woes was appropriately a hoot.
The lark of The Little Season continues, even though the birds are mostly confined to cameos this time around.
The entire series has a very high froth quotient. If you are in the mood for a bit of light-hearted entertainment filled with intelligent banter, this series is marvelous. And although each book stands alone, there are characters that continue through the series that readers, or at least this reader, will be glad to see get their happily ever after.
The story in A Reckless Promise is similar in many ways to the other books in the series, but the characters make it every bit as delightful to read as the earlier books. Now that I’ve finished, I can see the patterns, but while the story is rollicking along, it’s just pure fun.
It all goes back to the Napoleonic Wars. The four English officers, Darby, Rigby, Sinclair and Cooper who are the heroes of this series were prisoners of war. They just barely made it out with their lives. Darby, the hero of A Reckless Promise, owes his life to the Army Surgeon who was imprisoned with them, John Hamilton.
And that’s where this story begins. When the four men escaped, they begged the doctor to come with them, but to no avail. Hamilton refused to leave his other patients. But he did extract a promise from Darby that if the doctor did not survive, then Darby, the Viscount Nailbourne, would stand as guardian to his little daughter Marley.
It takes nearly two years for Marley to show up at Darby’s door, with her redoubtable aunt in tow. Darby is more than willing to take care of the child. Not just because a promise is a promise, but because he genuinely likes the seven-year-old spitfire, especially after she kicks him in the shin.
But her aunt, Mrs. Sadie Maxwell Boxer, gives him a great deal of pause. He’s more than willing to take her in as well, but the immediate question in his mind is “take her in as what?” The widowed Mrs. Maxwell is relatively young and surprisingly beautiful. Even though she is a widow, Sadie is much too young to remain as the sole female in his bachelor establishment, no matter how much Marley loves her.
The situation becomes even more dire when Darby figures out that the Mr. Maxwell Boxer he has been desperately trying to find was the doctor’s dog. Mrs. Boxer is really Miss Hamilton, and Darby decides he has to marry her. Or at least that’s the excuse he gives himself for doing what he really wants.
What they both really want.
Escape Rating A-: Just like A Scandalous Proposal, this story is carried by its utterly marvelous piffle. If you are looking for something serious, find another book. This one, and the series, are to be read just for the pure light-hearted fun of it.
At the same time, one of the great but slightly serious things that the author has done with this series is to create unconventional heroines that are easy for the 21st century reader to identify with but who do not seem to be anachronistic. It’s not just that Sadie is a doctor’s sister, but that she was forced to take over much of his practice while he was in the Army. And then to continue that practice after he came home debilitated by the lingering wound which eventually killed him.
Sadie has been forced to act as a professional, to have her advice taken seriously, to run a household, and to think entirely for herself. That’s unusual in society-based Regencies, and makes this series stand out. All four of the heroines, including Clarice Goodfellow who unfortunately does not seem to have a book of her own, are unconventional in ways that seem plausible, and that give them a lot of agency. Even if it’s the kind of agency that their society does not expect from a woman.
In addition to the marvelous banter and developing romance, there is also a serious subplot to this book. Sadie and Marley fled to Nailbourne in secret, out of what turns out to be justifiable fears for Marley’s safety. John Hamilton whisked an heiress away from the life her mother planned for her when he married his Susan. Now that both he and Susan are dead, the family that rejected Susan wants Marley back. John’s last wish was that Sadie make sure they don’t win.
But it isn’t Marley’s grandfather who is trying to claim his only grandchild. Instead, there is a much more nefarious plot afoot that Darby and Sadie must thwart in order to secure Marley’s happiness. But their focus on Marley’s happiness almost gets in the way of their own.
As someone who has read the series, the conclusion to Duke Basil’s birthday woes was appropriately a hoot.
August 20, 2016
Enjoying this series!
I loved Darby and Sadie.
Darby is a startling man. Distant, harbouring secrets, yet generous to a fault with his friends.
Four survivors of the Bonaparte wars and prison forge a friendship that will become a mainstay for them all back in the genteel world of the ton.
Little did Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, know that when he assured the prison camp's surgeon John Hamilton that he would assist him in any way possible, that that promise would in a few years time result in having a ward--of the female variety! Not only that she is accompanied by an uptight contrary aunt as chaperone, one Miss Sadie Grace Boxer.
I quite felt liked I'd walked into a shades of Oscar Wilde story with all the comings and goings of the household and friends.
Humorous and romantic with intrigue and a couple of cads thrown in gives an entertaining read.
A NetGalley ARC
I loved Darby and Sadie.
Darby is a startling man. Distant, harbouring secrets, yet generous to a fault with his friends.
Four survivors of the Bonaparte wars and prison forge a friendship that will become a mainstay for them all back in the genteel world of the ton.
Little did Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, know that when he assured the prison camp's surgeon John Hamilton that he would assist him in any way possible, that that promise would in a few years time result in having a ward--of the female variety! Not only that she is accompanied by an uptight contrary aunt as chaperone, one Miss Sadie Grace Boxer.
I quite felt liked I'd walked into a shades of Oscar Wilde story with all the comings and goings of the household and friends.
Humorous and romantic with intrigue and a couple of cads thrown in gives an entertaining read.
A NetGalley ARC
October 1, 2016
I enjoyed this more than #1. I skipped #2. It made me laugh and was an easy read.
July 14, 2016
Darby Travers rounds out the quartet of soldiers at the center of this series, and now a promise made to the surgeon who saved his life on the eve of a prisoner of war camp escape is coming back to bite him. The surgeon's death leaves his seven-year-old daughter, Marley, orphaned, and now she is Darby's ward. Darby is already apprehensive about the changes a child will bring to his carefree bachelor lifestyle, but he is fully unprepared for the very grown, very forceful, and very beautiful woman who accompanies her to her new home. Though he only has one good eye remaining, he can see that Marley's Aunt Sadie is keeping secrets, and ferreting them out of the intriguing beauty has just become his new favorite pastime.
Sadie Hamilton Boxer's life has been one of order and duty, with precious little time to indulge in her own hopes and dreams. Taking care of her brother's practice while he was at war gave her a sense of purpose, but now that he's gone and Marley has a new home, she's not quite sure what to do with herself. But she knows one thing for sure: she's going to keep Marley safe, even if that means having to live with her handsome and infuriating new guardian. But as the lies she's constructed to protect Marley start to unravel, she'll have to place her trust in the least likely candidate, the seemingly carefree and frivolous Darby. And as she spends more time with the maddening viscount, her traitorous heart just might discover that he is everything she never knew she wanted.
After enjoying the first two books in this series, An Improper Arrangement and A Scandalous Proposal, I was really looking forward to reading Darby's story. I love a scarred, brooding hero, and he was deliciously mysterious in the first two books. Unfortunately, I found him to be rather boring and uninspiring for a big chunk of this book. He has neither the wicked wit and sensuality of Gabe nor the dashing honor and heroics of Coop. For example, when poor Sadie stands before him naked for the first time (and by the way, there is a completely unromantic lead-up to the consummation of their relationship) and self-consciously comments on her perceived flaws of her body, telling Darby she hopes he's not disappointed, his response is . . .
"I believe I'll manage." Come on, Darby! Seriously? Even if you are being sarcastic, that's hardly a hero-worthy response. It took a really long time for me to understand that his sarcasm and don't-take-anything-seriously attitude are defense mechanisms because we don't learn anything about his past until the book is almost over. It's then that we finally learn Darby's childhood secret, which admittedly is pretty traumatic. By the end, I was much more fond of him, but I really wish there had been more focus on Darby and Sadie and their romance. Too much of their story in the first half of the book revolves around a subplot featuring another couple whose antics have underscored the series, Clarice and Rigby. Then the second half is dominated by another running theme of the series, whether Gabe's Uncle Basil will kick the bucket on his rapidly approaching sixtieth birthday like all of the dukes before him. I felt like Darby and Sadie didn't actually have a story of their own until there was only about twenty percent of the book remaining.
But I never really warmed to Sadie either. Her big secret wasn't revealed until after the halfway mark, and it turned out to be something easily overcome with Darby's help. And their attraction lacked sparks. They went from being newly acquainted, speaking to each other mainly of Marley and their situation, to all of a sudden being in love. But most disappointing was the lack of the delightful banter and simmering sexual tension that I loved so much in the first two books. The romance really got short-changed in this final installment for the sake of wrapping up the above-mentioned subplots. There are some cute moments, and things get cooking when the actual romance finally kicks into gear near the end. The last twenty percent saved this from being a two-star read for me, and I'm glad I hung in there. The final scene is a heartwarming and humorous end to Darby and Sadie's story and to the overall story encompassing all of the books, but I'm sorry to say that I found this conclusion to be the weakest book of the series.
Sadie Hamilton Boxer's life has been one of order and duty, with precious little time to indulge in her own hopes and dreams. Taking care of her brother's practice while he was at war gave her a sense of purpose, but now that he's gone and Marley has a new home, she's not quite sure what to do with herself. But she knows one thing for sure: she's going to keep Marley safe, even if that means having to live with her handsome and infuriating new guardian. But as the lies she's constructed to protect Marley start to unravel, she'll have to place her trust in the least likely candidate, the seemingly carefree and frivolous Darby. And as she spends more time with the maddening viscount, her traitorous heart just might discover that he is everything she never knew she wanted.
After enjoying the first two books in this series, An Improper Arrangement and A Scandalous Proposal, I was really looking forward to reading Darby's story. I love a scarred, brooding hero, and he was deliciously mysterious in the first two books. Unfortunately, I found him to be rather boring and uninspiring for a big chunk of this book. He has neither the wicked wit and sensuality of Gabe nor the dashing honor and heroics of Coop. For example, when poor Sadie stands before him naked for the first time (and by the way, there is a completely unromantic lead-up to the consummation of their relationship) and self-consciously comments on her perceived flaws of her body, telling Darby she hopes he's not disappointed, his response is . . .
"I believe I'll manage." Come on, Darby! Seriously? Even if you are being sarcastic, that's hardly a hero-worthy response. It took a really long time for me to understand that his sarcasm and don't-take-anything-seriously attitude are defense mechanisms because we don't learn anything about his past until the book is almost over. It's then that we finally learn Darby's childhood secret, which admittedly is pretty traumatic. By the end, I was much more fond of him, but I really wish there had been more focus on Darby and Sadie and their romance. Too much of their story in the first half of the book revolves around a subplot featuring another couple whose antics have underscored the series, Clarice and Rigby. Then the second half is dominated by another running theme of the series, whether Gabe's Uncle Basil will kick the bucket on his rapidly approaching sixtieth birthday like all of the dukes before him. I felt like Darby and Sadie didn't actually have a story of their own until there was only about twenty percent of the book remaining.
But I never really warmed to Sadie either. Her big secret wasn't revealed until after the halfway mark, and it turned out to be something easily overcome with Darby's help. And their attraction lacked sparks. They went from being newly acquainted, speaking to each other mainly of Marley and their situation, to all of a sudden being in love. But most disappointing was the lack of the delightful banter and simmering sexual tension that I loved so much in the first two books. The romance really got short-changed in this final installment for the sake of wrapping up the above-mentioned subplots. There are some cute moments, and things get cooking when the actual romance finally kicks into gear near the end. The last twenty percent saved this from being a two-star read for me, and I'm glad I hung in there. The final scene is a heartwarming and humorous end to Darby and Sadie's story and to the overall story encompassing all of the books, but I'm sorry to say that I found this conclusion to be the weakest book of the series.
December 8, 2016
A Reckless Promise continues the story of the four best friends (Coop, Darby, Gabe, and Jeremiah) surviving the Little Season and falling in love along the way. I HIGHLY recommend that you read this series in order – I read the first two books out of order and that was ok, but by the time you get to book 3, one of the major events that has been being foreshadowed all along (whether the Duke will meet his maker or not) comes to a head – and you want to know that backstory so it makes sense.
Darby is that man in the group that isn’t expected to settle down any time soon. He is the rogue with a lot of wealth to throw around. But then Sadie and her niece, Marley, show up literally on his doorstep and magically he has a young ward after a promise that he made out of hand on the battlefield some time before. What does this rogue do?! Fall in love of course! As a couple, I like Darby and Sadie. They play off of each other well and are excellent matches for each other. Both are spit-fires and have excellent comebacks to each other’s nonsense. She is definitely his equal.
While their romance was somewhat of a focal point, it wasn’t the sole focus of this story which was a little bit all over the place, in a somewhat organized fashion. Let me explain that a little more. We certainly see Darby and Sadie grow together, both in terms of their interest in each other, but also as humans, letting their emotions out for the first time and becoming themselves. However, there is a lot that happens to grow the larger storyline of the four couples that detracts from their individual romance. I feel that Gabe and Thea and Coop and Dany were given much more physical story time to grow their respective stories than Darby and Sadie were. Here there is also how the promise Darby made came to be cashed in, the story of Marley’s parents, deep dark history for both Darby and Sadie, the Duke’s possible pending death, the story of the birds continued from the previous books, and probably some other things I’m forgetting. So it didn’t feel as much their story as I would have liked. Additionally, Clarice and Jeremiah’s stories have been told so much through the first 3 books that I have no idea what will be left for their own book. Oh and I mentioned a deep, dark backstory for Darby that is hinted at from the first pages until almost the last. I really lost interest in finding out what this was, but was very surprised by it when revealed – nothing like I had imagined it would be, but I would have liked a little more build up for it.
I’ve said this in the other reviews, but I don’t really find the title of this series relevant in any way. Again, nothing happens that involves the Little Season; they don’t even go to any balls or parties in the entire book. I enjoy this series, but it could be better titled.
The romance here is a little less descriptive and risqué than the other novels, which is a little surprising given that Darby is known to be the rogue of the group. It was sweet and romantic. Some of the scenes are marginally descriptive, but I found these to be more about the character growth than the act itself. It amazes me how different the romantic element are across the novels in this series.
This is a good continuation of the large story arcs within the series as a whole, but I would have liked to have a little focus on Darby and Sadie.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and a copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
Darby is that man in the group that isn’t expected to settle down any time soon. He is the rogue with a lot of wealth to throw around. But then Sadie and her niece, Marley, show up literally on his doorstep and magically he has a young ward after a promise that he made out of hand on the battlefield some time before. What does this rogue do?! Fall in love of course! As a couple, I like Darby and Sadie. They play off of each other well and are excellent matches for each other. Both are spit-fires and have excellent comebacks to each other’s nonsense. She is definitely his equal.
While their romance was somewhat of a focal point, it wasn’t the sole focus of this story which was a little bit all over the place, in a somewhat organized fashion. Let me explain that a little more. We certainly see Darby and Sadie grow together, both in terms of their interest in each other, but also as humans, letting their emotions out for the first time and becoming themselves. However, there is a lot that happens to grow the larger storyline of the four couples that detracts from their individual romance. I feel that Gabe and Thea and Coop and Dany were given much more physical story time to grow their respective stories than Darby and Sadie were. Here there is also how the promise Darby made came to be cashed in, the story of Marley’s parents, deep dark history for both Darby and Sadie, the Duke’s possible pending death, the story of the birds continued from the previous books, and probably some other things I’m forgetting. So it didn’t feel as much their story as I would have liked. Additionally, Clarice and Jeremiah’s stories have been told so much through the first 3 books that I have no idea what will be left for their own book. Oh and I mentioned a deep, dark backstory for Darby that is hinted at from the first pages until almost the last. I really lost interest in finding out what this was, but was very surprised by it when revealed – nothing like I had imagined it would be, but I would have liked a little more build up for it.
I’ve said this in the other reviews, but I don’t really find the title of this series relevant in any way. Again, nothing happens that involves the Little Season; they don’t even go to any balls or parties in the entire book. I enjoy this series, but it could be better titled.
The romance here is a little less descriptive and risqué than the other novels, which is a little surprising given that Darby is known to be the rogue of the group. It was sweet and romantic. Some of the scenes are marginally descriptive, but I found these to be more about the character growth than the act itself. It amazes me how different the romantic element are across the novels in this series.
This is a good continuation of the large story arcs within the series as a whole, but I would have liked to have a little focus on Darby and Sadie.
This review was previously posted at The Maiden's Court blog and a copy was received in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2016
A Reckless Promise is the third book in the 'Little Season' series by Kasey Michaels. I have read the first two books in the series, and although you don't need to read them first, they are so wonderful, I would recommend it. It's lovely to see characters from the first books mentioned and taking part in this story too.
This is the story of Darby Travers. When he fought in the Napoleonic wars he was gravely injured and captured along with Rigby, Cooper, and Sinclair (all characters taking part in this series). He lost an eye, but his life was saved by the army medic with them, John Hamilton. When the men made their escape they tried to convince him to leave with them, but he refused. He wanted to stay and look after the other injured men in the prison camp. Knowing that Darby owes his life to John he offers to do anything for him, and John asks that if he doesn't survive, that Darby promise to become Guardian of his young daughter Marley. A promise that Darby makes, albeit a 'Reckless' one.
Nearly two years later John's sister, Sadie, turns up at his doorstep with Marley. John had returned from war, very ill, and in the months that followed his health deteriorated until his death. Sadie of course knew of the promise Darby had made, and immediately upon her brother's death she made her way to his home.
He is more than ready to accept the child as his ward, in fact after the little girl tells him she hates him and kicks him in the shin, he loves that she is a spitfire. His problem comes with the fact that she comes with her aunt. A widowed woman who is too young, and definitely too beautiful to be living in his bachelor home without risk to her reputation. He can't ask her to leave Marley though because it's obvious that the girl dotes on her aunt and visa versa. How will he resolve the situation. Marriage.
Sadie isn't adverse to the idea, in fact she is quite attracted to Darby. Her problem is that she is hiding a big secret, one that is eating her up inside. She also has a secret about Marley's past, something that could put her in grave danger. She has to tell Darby, but she doesn't know how.
Can she and Darby keep Marley safe, can she tell him her darkest secret without him hating her as much as she hates herself? Can they have a future together?
This was a wonderful story, with the beauty of the romance, but also the joy of Marley, and the eccentricities of the Earl just waiting to go 'Erp' before his 60th birthday. You really need to read the other books to get the full enjoyment from that character. It's lovely to have that light hearted storyline because the worry of Marley's past brings the deeper emotional side of the story. This book really has it all, I thoroughly enjoyed it and definitely recommend it.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the story of Darby Travers. When he fought in the Napoleonic wars he was gravely injured and captured along with Rigby, Cooper, and Sinclair (all characters taking part in this series). He lost an eye, but his life was saved by the army medic with them, John Hamilton. When the men made their escape they tried to convince him to leave with them, but he refused. He wanted to stay and look after the other injured men in the prison camp. Knowing that Darby owes his life to John he offers to do anything for him, and John asks that if he doesn't survive, that Darby promise to become Guardian of his young daughter Marley. A promise that Darby makes, albeit a 'Reckless' one.
Nearly two years later John's sister, Sadie, turns up at his doorstep with Marley. John had returned from war, very ill, and in the months that followed his health deteriorated until his death. Sadie of course knew of the promise Darby had made, and immediately upon her brother's death she made her way to his home.
He is more than ready to accept the child as his ward, in fact after the little girl tells him she hates him and kicks him in the shin, he loves that she is a spitfire. His problem comes with the fact that she comes with her aunt. A widowed woman who is too young, and definitely too beautiful to be living in his bachelor home without risk to her reputation. He can't ask her to leave Marley though because it's obvious that the girl dotes on her aunt and visa versa. How will he resolve the situation. Marriage.
Sadie isn't adverse to the idea, in fact she is quite attracted to Darby. Her problem is that she is hiding a big secret, one that is eating her up inside. She also has a secret about Marley's past, something that could put her in grave danger. She has to tell Darby, but she doesn't know how.
Can she and Darby keep Marley safe, can she tell him her darkest secret without him hating her as much as she hates herself? Can they have a future together?
This was a wonderful story, with the beauty of the romance, but also the joy of Marley, and the eccentricities of the Earl just waiting to go 'Erp' before his 60th birthday. You really need to read the other books to get the full enjoyment from that character. It's lovely to have that light hearted storyline because the worry of Marley's past brings the deeper emotional side of the story. This book really has it all, I thoroughly enjoyed it and definitely recommend it.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 23, 2018
This was my first Kasey Michaels book (I know, I know, I’ve been hiding under a rock somewhere) and I started reading with an open mind. It’s an understatement to say I love her writing style. I was sucked in from the first sentence and was so disappointed when it ended. I wanted to read more about Darcy and Sadie.
A Reckless Promise starts in the middle of the Napoleonic War and one of the young men, Darcy, is injured (lost his eye). A doctor is sewing him up and asks Darcy for a favor. Considering the fact that Doc just saved his life, Darcy promises to look after his daughter. It’s a Reckless Promise indeed and thus begins this sweeping romance.
Darcy is in fact a Viscount and when his new ward appears on his doorstep a few years later with a very beautiful “aunt”, Darcy is cautious, as is the lovely Sadie. Can Sadie be hiding a deep, dark secret? Can he break through her icy exterior to discover the fiery women underneath or will she succeed in keeping him at arms length?
I’m a huge fan of this time period and Michaels paints an accurate portrayal of not only aristocratic society but of what can happen to a child who loses both her parents. It’s a touching story of how bachelor Darcy takes in a precocious child (along with her alluring aunt) and he creates a home for her. His friends are quick to fall in love with Darcy’s young ward and in the end, she just may save the life of a frightened aging Duke.
Filled with a slow-burning romance, hysterical antics by London’s high society, witty dialogue and a beautiful setting, A Reckless Promise delivers an epic romance. Perfect for a beach read or escaping from the kids for a few hours. Kasey Michaels is a talented storyteller and I now have to go out and buy everything she’s ever written!
Many thanks to Harlequin Books and Netgalley for giving me a complimentary copy in exchange for a review.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
A Reckless Promise starts in the middle of the Napoleonic War and one of the young men, Darcy, is injured (lost his eye). A doctor is sewing him up and asks Darcy for a favor. Considering the fact that Doc just saved his life, Darcy promises to look after his daughter. It’s a Reckless Promise indeed and thus begins this sweeping romance.
Darcy is in fact a Viscount and when his new ward appears on his doorstep a few years later with a very beautiful “aunt”, Darcy is cautious, as is the lovely Sadie. Can Sadie be hiding a deep, dark secret? Can he break through her icy exterior to discover the fiery women underneath or will she succeed in keeping him at arms length?
I’m a huge fan of this time period and Michaels paints an accurate portrayal of not only aristocratic society but of what can happen to a child who loses both her parents. It’s a touching story of how bachelor Darcy takes in a precocious child (along with her alluring aunt) and he creates a home for her. His friends are quick to fall in love with Darcy’s young ward and in the end, she just may save the life of a frightened aging Duke.
Filled with a slow-burning romance, hysterical antics by London’s high society, witty dialogue and a beautiful setting, A Reckless Promise delivers an epic romance. Perfect for a beach read or escaping from the kids for a few hours. Kasey Michaels is a talented storyteller and I now have to go out and buy everything she’s ever written!
Many thanks to Harlequin Books and Netgalley for giving me a complimentary copy in exchange for a review.
My Rating: 5+ stars
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
July 31, 2016
***I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review, which was first published on book blog Will Read for Feels.
I thoroughly enjoy Kasey Michaels’ Regency romps—er, romances—and when I found out book 2 of her new Little Season series was due to come out, I immediately applied for an ARC. I’d five-starred the first book in this series, An Improper Arrangement, and was looking forward to more madcap misses and lusty yet lovable lords. And A Reckless Promise did not disappoint, even if the madcap miss in this case is the heroine’s niece rather than the heroine herself, and I was even more delighted to learn that many of the characters in the first book would be supporting the main couple in this one.
Front and center in this book is the signature Kasey Michaels sense of humor, which is evident in every chapter, from the main characters’ impressions of one another to the trouble-making supporting characters who were both mad and maddening to the circumstances all the characters found themselves in. There’s a lot of the chaotic slapstick I’ve always associated with the traditional commedia dell’arte-type plots, and it makes for laugh-out-loud moments while reading, so fair warning if you tend to read in public.
Darby, Viscount Nailbourne (aka Uncle Nailbourne, much to his horror), is definitely a lovable kind of hero; in a genre where surly bordering-on-cruel love-resistant lords in denial are the norm, he’s refreshingly nice. He’s good with kids and puppies and while he does resist the notion that he’s fallen head-over-heels for Sadie Grace for longer than he should, he’s nevertheless charming and lovable and loyal. Better yet, he’s a champion problem solver, or so it seems from the plot of this book, which makes his prolonged inability to resolve things with Sadie endearingly frustrating.
Sadie Grace “Boxer,” on the other hand, is a self-sacrificing lady who loves and will do anything for her young niece, even if it means leaving her with her aristocratic guardian. That she falls for said guardian fairly quickly is inconvenient, considering the oh-so-convenient marriage he proposes. I like that she’s obviously got a spine and intelligence and is willing to own up to her mistakes, especially when she’s caught out in a lie, but she’s also good at compromise and tends to put others’ needs and wants before her own. If there’s one thing to complain about, it’s probably her lack of insight as far as Darby’s feelings are concerned, when she seems eagle-eyed when it comes to other people.
We revisit many of the characters from the first book in this series, thanks to Darby’s friendship with them, and as someone who loved that book, it was something I really enjoyed. But I had to worry that the charming chaos they bring to the story would seem only more chaotic and less charming to someone who picked this book up hoping to read it as a standalone. I don’t know that I would recommend it as a read to someone who hasn’t read the rest of the series which is probably the main reason I rated this read 4 stars instead of 5.
I thoroughly enjoy Kasey Michaels’ Regency romps—er, romances—and when I found out book 2 of her new Little Season series was due to come out, I immediately applied for an ARC. I’d five-starred the first book in this series, An Improper Arrangement, and was looking forward to more madcap misses and lusty yet lovable lords. And A Reckless Promise did not disappoint, even if the madcap miss in this case is the heroine’s niece rather than the heroine herself, and I was even more delighted to learn that many of the characters in the first book would be supporting the main couple in this one.
Front and center in this book is the signature Kasey Michaels sense of humor, which is evident in every chapter, from the main characters’ impressions of one another to the trouble-making supporting characters who were both mad and maddening to the circumstances all the characters found themselves in. There’s a lot of the chaotic slapstick I’ve always associated with the traditional commedia dell’arte-type plots, and it makes for laugh-out-loud moments while reading, so fair warning if you tend to read in public.
Darby, Viscount Nailbourne (aka Uncle Nailbourne, much to his horror), is definitely a lovable kind of hero; in a genre where surly bordering-on-cruel love-resistant lords in denial are the norm, he’s refreshingly nice. He’s good with kids and puppies and while he does resist the notion that he’s fallen head-over-heels for Sadie Grace for longer than he should, he’s nevertheless charming and lovable and loyal. Better yet, he’s a champion problem solver, or so it seems from the plot of this book, which makes his prolonged inability to resolve things with Sadie endearingly frustrating.
Sadie Grace “Boxer,” on the other hand, is a self-sacrificing lady who loves and will do anything for her young niece, even if it means leaving her with her aristocratic guardian. That she falls for said guardian fairly quickly is inconvenient, considering the oh-so-convenient marriage he proposes. I like that she’s obviously got a spine and intelligence and is willing to own up to her mistakes, especially when she’s caught out in a lie, but she’s also good at compromise and tends to put others’ needs and wants before her own. If there’s one thing to complain about, it’s probably her lack of insight as far as Darby’s feelings are concerned, when she seems eagle-eyed when it comes to other people.
We revisit many of the characters from the first book in this series, thanks to Darby’s friendship with them, and as someone who loved that book, it was something I really enjoyed. But I had to worry that the charming chaos they bring to the story would seem only more chaotic and less charming to someone who picked this book up hoping to read it as a standalone. I don’t know that I would recommend it as a read to someone who hasn’t read the rest of the series which is probably the main reason I rated this read 4 stars instead of 5.
September 20, 2016
This book is the last in Kasey Michael’s The Little Season series, and if you’ve enjoyed the others, this one is well worth the read.
Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, promised the doctor who saved his life after he was wounded in battle that he would take care of the doctor’s daughter if he was killed. When the doctor dies of wounds he sustained during the war, Darby feels bound to honor his promise, but he wasn’t aware that his young ward would be accompanied by her aunt, Sadie, who has also lost her home after her brother’s death. Darby can’t imagine separating his ward from her aunt, but he also can’t have an unrelated young woman—especially a very attractive one—sharing his home. So he proposed to Sadie, and she accepts, since it is a tidy solution. However, Sadie hasn’t told Darby everything about her situation, which creates additional complications that Darby has to unravel. But Darby has his own ghosts in his past, and Sadie might be just the one to help put them to rest.
Darby has been one of my favorite characters throughout the series, and he shines in this book, too. (Well, really, who doesn’t like a slightly roguish hero with a heart of gold?) I liked Sadie, too, although I thought her character didn’t have quite the same spark as Darby does. Still they made a good couple. They both have some dark moments in their pasts, and it was easy to root for them to find their HEA.
As with the other books in the series, the secondary characters add some sparkle. The adorably frisky duke and duchess are back, and we finally learn whether the duke will go “erp” or make it past his 60th birthday alive. The secondary romance between Darby’s friend Rigby and former maidservant Clarice faces a complication, and the resolution includes a moment that made me laugh out loud. Darby’s valet is an amusing addition to the plot this time around, too.
Recommended for fans of Kasey Michaels or anyone who enjoys historical romances that mix humor with more serious moments. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, though, I would read them first, or you might be confused by some of what happens in this one.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, promised the doctor who saved his life after he was wounded in battle that he would take care of the doctor’s daughter if he was killed. When the doctor dies of wounds he sustained during the war, Darby feels bound to honor his promise, but he wasn’t aware that his young ward would be accompanied by her aunt, Sadie, who has also lost her home after her brother’s death. Darby can’t imagine separating his ward from her aunt, but he also can’t have an unrelated young woman—especially a very attractive one—sharing his home. So he proposed to Sadie, and she accepts, since it is a tidy solution. However, Sadie hasn’t told Darby everything about her situation, which creates additional complications that Darby has to unravel. But Darby has his own ghosts in his past, and Sadie might be just the one to help put them to rest.
Darby has been one of my favorite characters throughout the series, and he shines in this book, too. (Well, really, who doesn’t like a slightly roguish hero with a heart of gold?) I liked Sadie, too, although I thought her character didn’t have quite the same spark as Darby does. Still they made a good couple. They both have some dark moments in their pasts, and it was easy to root for them to find their HEA.
As with the other books in the series, the secondary characters add some sparkle. The adorably frisky duke and duchess are back, and we finally learn whether the duke will go “erp” or make it past his 60th birthday alive. The secondary romance between Darby’s friend Rigby and former maidservant Clarice faces a complication, and the resolution includes a moment that made me laugh out loud. Darby’s valet is an amusing addition to the plot this time around, too.
Recommended for fans of Kasey Michaels or anyone who enjoys historical romances that mix humor with more serious moments. If you haven’t read the other books in this series, though, I would read them first, or you might be confused by some of what happens in this one.
An ARC of this novel was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2016
This book was so fantastic! Loved these characters, the romance, the mysteries, and yeah, this world! Just so fantastic and enjoyable, though it was sad to say goodbye!
July 4, 2017
A Reckless Promise is the third book in the Little Season series by Kasey Michaels. I have not read the previous books in this series, but was still able to fully enjoy the read. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, made a battlefield promise but never imagined that he would have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperon—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret. Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby no matter the cost to her heart.
A Reckless Promise is an entertaining and interesting read, with characters and complications that kept things interesting. I liked Sadie's character, she is smart and willing to do anything to protect her niece any danger from all sides. The mystery and danger surrounding the little girl was well done, but maybe a little too much for my tastes. However, I did love the little girl's personality and the secondary characters that made things more entertaining. Darby is a strong character, although I honestly thought his big secret would be even bigger and somehow different- not that it was not traumatic enough. I like the slow growth of friendship and more between Sadie and Darby, how they came together in trust and friendship really made their relationship seem more real to me. I was a little distracted by the secondary stories that were happening, though fans of the series are probably looking or how those little bits played out. It was an entertaining read and well worth the time, but not one that makes my looking to read the prior books of the series.
A Reckless Promise is a charming and enthralling romance and met my expectations for the author. However, it just did not stand out as an absolutely must read, but it is wonderful for a summer weekend.
A Reckless Promise is an entertaining and interesting read, with characters and complications that kept things interesting. I liked Sadie's character, she is smart and willing to do anything to protect her niece any danger from all sides. The mystery and danger surrounding the little girl was well done, but maybe a little too much for my tastes. However, I did love the little girl's personality and the secondary characters that made things more entertaining. Darby is a strong character, although I honestly thought his big secret would be even bigger and somehow different- not that it was not traumatic enough. I like the slow growth of friendship and more between Sadie and Darby, how they came together in trust and friendship really made their relationship seem more real to me. I was a little distracted by the secondary stories that were happening, though fans of the series are probably looking or how those little bits played out. It was an entertaining read and well worth the time, but not one that makes my looking to read the prior books of the series.
A Reckless Promise is a charming and enthralling romance and met my expectations for the author. However, it just did not stand out as an absolutely must read, but it is wonderful for a summer weekend.
July 4, 2018
Man this story started out so strong but completely plateaued, then crashed and burned. Darby, viscount Nailhorne, is still suffering effects from the war with Wellington and has to come through on a promise he made to his surgeon from the war. Years go by without a second thought until his promise shows up at his door. A 7 year old and her aunt. Marley is a child and has lost her father but she clings to Darby rather quickly. Her aunt, Sadie Grace, has other thoughts. She has secrets she can’t let him know or he may turn them out of his house.
This synopsis sounds ok but the reality was far worse. I had to skip a few chapters bc that’s how relevant they were to the story and I still caught up. The secrets she held were so kindergarten level and the words in their interaction had me gagging. I didn’t like their relationship cause it seemed sooo fake. The reasons she had to walk away were the most lame and I just couldn’t get behind it. Then it seemed once their trust issue got resolved they went out to find her secret, which was her in-laws wanting their granddaughter so they could provide for her. But the grandfather was about to be swindled, and it was so lame. The fuse was basically dead in like 2 pages. For a secret that takes up soooo many chapter to be done in 2 pages was such a wasted effort in a book. No suspense whatsoever. And then they went to resolve an issue from the first book of the series and guess what all was well there bc it was obvious in the first book. And that issue was in all 3 books. Oh the duke doesn’t die. I know you were all dying to know. Gag.
Don’t read this series. You’ll regret it.
This synopsis sounds ok but the reality was far worse. I had to skip a few chapters bc that’s how relevant they were to the story and I still caught up. The secrets she held were so kindergarten level and the words in their interaction had me gagging. I didn’t like their relationship cause it seemed sooo fake. The reasons she had to walk away were the most lame and I just couldn’t get behind it. Then it seemed once their trust issue got resolved they went out to find her secret, which was her in-laws wanting their granddaughter so they could provide for her. But the grandfather was about to be swindled, and it was so lame. The fuse was basically dead in like 2 pages. For a secret that takes up soooo many chapter to be done in 2 pages was such a wasted effort in a book. No suspense whatsoever. And then they went to resolve an issue from the first book of the series and guess what all was well there bc it was obvious in the first book. And that issue was in all 3 books. Oh the duke doesn’t die. I know you were all dying to know. Gag.
Don’t read this series. You’ll regret it.
July 30, 2017
Viscount Darby Travers promises the doctor who saves his life that he will make the doctor's daughter his ward if necessary. Two years later the little girl and her aunt, Sadie Grace, arrive on Darby's doorstep much to his surprise. He decides almost at once to marry the aunt, supposedly because he can't have a single woman living in his house. Both have secrets and must learn to trust each other in this fluffy story. There are a lot of characters from the other books in this series, but you don't have to have read those books to know what's going on.
I wish there had been a bit more romance both before Darby's proposal and before he seduces her. But both lead characters are likable and witty, and the story is light and a quick read. I love Ms. Michaels's Romney Marsh series; while this is definitely not of that caliber, it's a fun read.
I wish there had been a bit more romance both before Darby's proposal and before he seduces her. But both lead characters are likable and witty, and the story is light and a quick read. I love Ms. Michaels's Romney Marsh series; while this is definitely not of that caliber, it's a fun read.
March 23, 2017
A disappointing read. More time seemed to spent on wrapping up various subplots from the earlier books than focusing on the main plot and as a result, the finale was rushed and lackluster. There was never any real sense of danger either because not enough time was dedicated to developing the threat against Marley. The relationship between Darby and Sadie was also poorly developed and moved too quickly in my opinion, and the relationship between Darby and Marley was nonexistent. This also could have used some more editing, particularly regarding the dialogue as there were often awkward topic shifts. I did like how Darby and Sadie teased each other though, and I also thought Darby's secrets were interesting and a bit different from the typical rake. Ultimately, I wasn't a fan of this one.
May 24, 2018
Overall, fairly solid. The banter is good, and the getting belligerently convenience engaged is very good for me as a person. Relies a little much on characters from the other books in the series to drive tension and there are like seven different plots that don’t really tie together so that it feels like you’re bouncing around like crazy in the last third, but imminently enjoyable despite that.
September 20, 2020
Kasey Michaels always has humor, so I enjoy her books. Just some light fluff.
April 9, 2022
Felt rushed and all over the place at the same time. Ending was a cliffhanger
July 11, 2025
A nice conclusion
to a great cast of characters.
And non “erp” ending.
to a great cast of characters.
And non “erp” ending.
August 14, 2016
Summary from Goodreads:
"It's the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he'll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart."
My Thoughts:
This author is fast becoming one of my go to authors when it comes to an enjoyable and fun historical romance. Earlier this year I read and adored A Scandalous Proposal so I couldn't turn down the opportunity to read another book in this series. This book was just as great as the previous book and also just a plain good read! There is just something about the way this author writes that makes me smile and enjoy my reading experience. I found myself easily swept away by this book and I finished it in a matter of days. Isn't it funny how there are just some authors that can do that with a book? Where you find yourself reading as much as possible without concern for everything else that you "should" be doing? My house definitely wasn't clean after finishing this book but it was completely worth it! It is a shame that I just started reading this author earlier this year but at least I more books to look forward to.
One of the best things about this series in my opinion is the cast of supporting characters. Don't get me wrong, I loved Sadie Grace and Darby but I also loved so many of the other characters as well. Clarice and Rigby in particular are favorites of mine and I'm wondering if they were featured in the first book? I'm not sure but I will definitely be finding out. This wasn't your typical romance as it took awhile for the characters to figure out their full feelings towards one another. I love romances where this happens. There might be attraction or friendship but the actually falling in love with one another takes time. I adored that we got to see characters from the previous book in this one as well. I really adored the way that the author took multiple story lines in this book and we got to see each play out by the end. I found myself most intrigued by the trouble that Clarice found herself in. There were some tense moments where I wasn't sure how everything was going to work out or even if it would. I also really was looking forward to Darby and Sadie's happy ever after. They just fit together so perfectly so it was something that I couldn't help but love.
Overall, this book solidified my love for this author's books. At this point my plan is to read anything and everything that this author has written starting with An Improper Arrangement which is the first book in this series. I believe that I already have that one on my kindle so I won't be waiting long to read it! Fans of historical romance should really check this book out. I don't think that you need to read the books in order (I certainly didn't) but it might help when it comes to knowing the full stories of each of the characters. With such a fun writing style and a story line that sweeps you away, why wouldn't you want to?
Bottom Line: A new must read author for me in the historical romance genre!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley as part of a TLC book tour.
"It's the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he'll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart."
My Thoughts:
This author is fast becoming one of my go to authors when it comes to an enjoyable and fun historical romance. Earlier this year I read and adored A Scandalous Proposal so I couldn't turn down the opportunity to read another book in this series. This book was just as great as the previous book and also just a plain good read! There is just something about the way this author writes that makes me smile and enjoy my reading experience. I found myself easily swept away by this book and I finished it in a matter of days. Isn't it funny how there are just some authors that can do that with a book? Where you find yourself reading as much as possible without concern for everything else that you "should" be doing? My house definitely wasn't clean after finishing this book but it was completely worth it! It is a shame that I just started reading this author earlier this year but at least I more books to look forward to.
One of the best things about this series in my opinion is the cast of supporting characters. Don't get me wrong, I loved Sadie Grace and Darby but I also loved so many of the other characters as well. Clarice and Rigby in particular are favorites of mine and I'm wondering if they were featured in the first book? I'm not sure but I will definitely be finding out. This wasn't your typical romance as it took awhile for the characters to figure out their full feelings towards one another. I love romances where this happens. There might be attraction or friendship but the actually falling in love with one another takes time. I adored that we got to see characters from the previous book in this one as well. I really adored the way that the author took multiple story lines in this book and we got to see each play out by the end. I found myself most intrigued by the trouble that Clarice found herself in. There were some tense moments where I wasn't sure how everything was going to work out or even if it would. I also really was looking forward to Darby and Sadie's happy ever after. They just fit together so perfectly so it was something that I couldn't help but love.
Overall, this book solidified my love for this author's books. At this point my plan is to read anything and everything that this author has written starting with An Improper Arrangement which is the first book in this series. I believe that I already have that one on my kindle so I won't be waiting long to read it! Fans of historical romance should really check this book out. I don't think that you need to read the books in order (I certainly didn't) but it might help when it comes to knowing the full stories of each of the characters. With such a fun writing style and a story line that sweeps you away, why wouldn't you want to?
Bottom Line: A new must read author for me in the historical romance genre!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley as part of a TLC book tour.
July 26, 2016
France - 1814
Surgeon John Hamilton has been treating Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, who has received a severe injury to his eye. Darby and John are being held in a prisoner of war camp where people are dying due to a lack of food, clean water, and medicine. Darby is planning to escape from the camp and wants John to go too. However, he refuses because he knows he cannot leave his patients. Darby is grateful to John for his excellent medical treatment. John tells him that he hopes to return home, but if he does not make it, Darby promises to be guardian to his daughter should John not survive.
London - 1815 - The Little Season
Darcy is preparing for the evening’s entertainment making sure his eye patch covers his scars. When he found that John Hamilton passed away, he has agreed to take John's daughter, Marley, as his ward. Knowing nothing about her, he doesn’t know what to expect. Upon her arrival, Darby is surprised to find an outspoken young woman accompanying Marley. She introduces herself as Mrs. Sadie Boxer and says she is John’s sister. A little girl, Marley kicks Darcy telling him that he is mean and she hopes he dies. This is part of her acting out at the loss of her father. Sadie reminds her that they are lucky that Darby has taken them in because they are without funds to live on their own.
To placate the rules of propriety, Sadie agrees to be called Marley’s companion. As they are lacking in proper clothing, Darcy decides to take Sadie and Marley to stay in London with his Aunt Vivien Sinclair, the Duchess of Cranbrook. She can see that they are outfitted properly and introduced to society.
As they learn more about one another, Sadie tells Darcy that she is a widow, when indeed, she was never married. Therefore, he suggests a marriage of convenience for them which will keep Marley with both of them.
Sadie soon responds with pleasure to Darby’s overtures and things are looking good for them. While life seems to become more secure for Sadie, she is still hiding something that scares her.
This started out as an interesting book, but became confusing with the introduction of more characters with little background on them. As I had read the author’s novel, “An Improper Arrangement,” I was somewhat familiar with a couple of the characters but I honestly feel that unless one has read all of the books in the series, and recently, they too may be confused.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Surgeon John Hamilton has been treating Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, who has received a severe injury to his eye. Darby and John are being held in a prisoner of war camp where people are dying due to a lack of food, clean water, and medicine. Darby is planning to escape from the camp and wants John to go too. However, he refuses because he knows he cannot leave his patients. Darby is grateful to John for his excellent medical treatment. John tells him that he hopes to return home, but if he does not make it, Darby promises to be guardian to his daughter should John not survive.
London - 1815 - The Little Season
Darcy is preparing for the evening’s entertainment making sure his eye patch covers his scars. When he found that John Hamilton passed away, he has agreed to take John's daughter, Marley, as his ward. Knowing nothing about her, he doesn’t know what to expect. Upon her arrival, Darby is surprised to find an outspoken young woman accompanying Marley. She introduces herself as Mrs. Sadie Boxer and says she is John’s sister. A little girl, Marley kicks Darcy telling him that he is mean and she hopes he dies. This is part of her acting out at the loss of her father. Sadie reminds her that they are lucky that Darby has taken them in because they are without funds to live on their own.
To placate the rules of propriety, Sadie agrees to be called Marley’s companion. As they are lacking in proper clothing, Darcy decides to take Sadie and Marley to stay in London with his Aunt Vivien Sinclair, the Duchess of Cranbrook. She can see that they are outfitted properly and introduced to society.
As they learn more about one another, Sadie tells Darcy that she is a widow, when indeed, she was never married. Therefore, he suggests a marriage of convenience for them which will keep Marley with both of them.
Sadie soon responds with pleasure to Darby’s overtures and things are looking good for them. While life seems to become more secure for Sadie, she is still hiding something that scares her.
This started out as an interesting book, but became confusing with the introduction of more characters with little background on them. As I had read the author’s novel, “An Improper Arrangement,” I was somewhat familiar with a couple of the characters but I honestly feel that unless one has read all of the books in the series, and recently, they too may be confused.
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-...
A Reckless Promise
The Little Season, Book #3
By Kasey Michaels
IBSN: 9780373779727
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Una
Synopsis:
London’s Little Season has never been so scandalous
It’s the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he’ll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade’s young daughter, and Darby’s new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child’s aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother’s surgery, but none prepared her for the world she’s thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family’s past catches up with her, she’ll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart.
Review:
Wartime promises come to fruition as Darby awaits the arrival of his friend’s orphaned daughter. What he didn’t expect was her to be accompanied by a very young and beautiful Aunt who is overprotective of her charge and very mistrustful of his intentions. From the moment he meets Sadie Grace he knows she is hiding secrets and he has to wonder how long it will be before she reveals them. Although Darby suggests a marriage of convenience for the sake of the child he wonders what he has gotten into.
Sadie Grace arrives under a pseudo married last name to protect her niece and herself from harm when travelling. Viscount Nailbourne and his life are completely different than that she has known and her married status becomes unraveled in only a few days. Although she knows her niece will be safe with Darby and his household she becomes concerned for her own well-being knowing the secrets she harbors. Can she trust Darby to look after both of them?
Their troubled pasts draw them together but can their love survive the secrets both hold?
A fast moving story with well-developed characters kept me turning pages. The setting drew me into the society of the time. I felt as I was reading that I could easily be part of the story and as a result I didn’t put it down until I was finished. A truly delightful read!
A Reckless Promise
The Little Season, Book #3
By Kasey Michaels
IBSN: 9780373779727
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Una
Synopsis:
London’s Little Season has never been so scandalous
It’s the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he’ll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade’s young daughter, and Darby’s new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child’s aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother’s surgery, but none prepared her for the world she’s thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family’s past catches up with her, she’ll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart.
Review:
Wartime promises come to fruition as Darby awaits the arrival of his friend’s orphaned daughter. What he didn’t expect was her to be accompanied by a very young and beautiful Aunt who is overprotective of her charge and very mistrustful of his intentions. From the moment he meets Sadie Grace he knows she is hiding secrets and he has to wonder how long it will be before she reveals them. Although Darby suggests a marriage of convenience for the sake of the child he wonders what he has gotten into.
Sadie Grace arrives under a pseudo married last name to protect her niece and herself from harm when travelling. Viscount Nailbourne and his life are completely different than that she has known and her married status becomes unraveled in only a few days. Although she knows her niece will be safe with Darby and his household she becomes concerned for her own well-being knowing the secrets she harbors. Can she trust Darby to look after both of them?
Their troubled pasts draw them together but can their love survive the secrets both hold?
A fast moving story with well-developed characters kept me turning pages. The setting drew me into the society of the time. I felt as I was reading that I could easily be part of the story and as a result I didn’t put it down until I was finished. A truly delightful read!
January 29, 2023
Read my review on RomanceJunkies.com by clicking on the link below. It is also posted in full.
http://romancejunkies.com/reviews/a-r...
A RECKLESS PROMISE (THE LITTLE SEASON #3) is an historical romance set in France and England in the early 1800’s that once again takes some liberties by putting Darby and Sadie Grace together over and over again without the use of a chaperone. It was nice to be reunited with characters I’ve met in her first book in the series as well as new characters.
Michaels’ A RECKLESS PROMISE is Darby and Sadie Grace’s story along with her niece Marley who becomes Darby’s ward after the death of her father. There is a lightheartedness to the story but also some darkness due to secrets being kept, Darby and Sadie Grace’s upbringings, the curse on the Duke and some evil characters. There is instant attraction between Darby, a Viscount, and Sadie Grace, a commoner, even though he doesn’t fully believe her story of why she’s at his cottage with Marley at the request of Marley’s father, a war buddy, who was injured during the war while in France as he was as well. He knows there are pieces of the story that she’s leaving out but he’s willing to give her time to tell him the true facts. When they are finally comfortable around each other we get to know their secrets a little at a time which is eating at both of them. They are good for each other and don’t have a cold relationship like others in the ton. Watching their interactions as well as those between their friends gave a liveliness to the story. I could tell how much their friendships meant to each of them and that they truly cared for each other.
There are family and friends, dogs, birds, titled people of the ton, servants, secrets, illness, tears, laughter, happiness, twists and turns, lots of loving and love. The prologue set in France during the war sets the stage and the epilogue set in England wraps things up the story and gives me the closure I was hoping for along with some happily ever afters.
Michaels is a fairly new to me author only having read MUCH ADO ABOUT ROGUES (BLACKTHORN BROTHERS, #3) and the first book in this series, AN IMPROPER ARRANGEMENT. I somehow missed the second book in the series, A SCANDALOUS PROPOSAL and I plan to rectify that. I do look forward to reading more of her books since historical romance is one of my favorite genres.
http://romancejunkies.com/reviews/a-r...
A RECKLESS PROMISE (THE LITTLE SEASON #3) is an historical romance set in France and England in the early 1800’s that once again takes some liberties by putting Darby and Sadie Grace together over and over again without the use of a chaperone. It was nice to be reunited with characters I’ve met in her first book in the series as well as new characters.
Michaels’ A RECKLESS PROMISE is Darby and Sadie Grace’s story along with her niece Marley who becomes Darby’s ward after the death of her father. There is a lightheartedness to the story but also some darkness due to secrets being kept, Darby and Sadie Grace’s upbringings, the curse on the Duke and some evil characters. There is instant attraction between Darby, a Viscount, and Sadie Grace, a commoner, even though he doesn’t fully believe her story of why she’s at his cottage with Marley at the request of Marley’s father, a war buddy, who was injured during the war while in France as he was as well. He knows there are pieces of the story that she’s leaving out but he’s willing to give her time to tell him the true facts. When they are finally comfortable around each other we get to know their secrets a little at a time which is eating at both of them. They are good for each other and don’t have a cold relationship like others in the ton. Watching their interactions as well as those between their friends gave a liveliness to the story. I could tell how much their friendships meant to each of them and that they truly cared for each other.
There are family and friends, dogs, birds, titled people of the ton, servants, secrets, illness, tears, laughter, happiness, twists and turns, lots of loving and love. The prologue set in France during the war sets the stage and the epilogue set in England wraps things up the story and gives me the closure I was hoping for along with some happily ever afters.
Michaels is a fairly new to me author only having read MUCH ADO ABOUT ROGUES (BLACKTHORN BROTHERS, #3) and the first book in this series, AN IMPROPER ARRANGEMENT. I somehow missed the second book in the series, A SCANDALOUS PROPOSAL and I plan to rectify that. I do look forward to reading more of her books since historical romance is one of my favorite genres.
July 10, 2016
I always tell you that I'm not a huge fan of historical romances, then I find myself jumping on them anytime I see them offered for review because I do love romances and there just aren't a whole bunch offered always. And then, oddly, I find myself liking them and I question if my "I'm not a fan of historical romances" is even true or if I'm actually being a brat.
But I liked this one! The book starts off during the Napoleonic War where Darby (among others) are pretty severely injured. He's lost his eye but he would have lost his life if not for the work of surgeon John Hamilton. There are plans for the men to go back and Darby tries to convince John to come with them but he refuses to leave his patients, so Darby tells him if there was anything he could ever do to repay him for saving his life, he'd do it.
Which is how Darby ends up the guardian of Marley, a young girl. But Marley doesn't come alone, she comes with John's sister, Sadie, who is an adult. It's clear from the beginning something isn't quite right about the entire situation and Darby feels it too, but he's torn between honoring the wishes of his now deceased friend and following his gut. The problem is that you don't just take in a seemingly widowed woman into your home without the risk of ruining her reputation, so after much thought Darby decides he needs to marry her. Just as sparks start to fly between the two of them, Sadie's past comes full force into their relationship. The really great part about this book is that we really have two books in one. First, we have Sadie and Darby's relationship and their interactions (which are kind of great), and trying to confirm to the societal norms of the time. But we also have a subplot where Marley and her safety is the primary focus. Sadie knows about Marley's real family and how she became part of John Hamilton's family and then it all comes full circle because you know from the very beginning of the book that Darby is a man of integrity who would stop at nothing to keep someone safe. John, knowing this, set the wheels in motion for Darby to eventually be the caretaker of Marley to ensure her safety, and Sadie (who truly doesn't KNOW Darby) will have to trust that her brother knew what he was doing.
Overall? Good book! I really enjoyed it and I would really recommend it if you are a fan of historical romances for sure.
But I liked this one! The book starts off during the Napoleonic War where Darby (among others) are pretty severely injured. He's lost his eye but he would have lost his life if not for the work of surgeon John Hamilton. There are plans for the men to go back and Darby tries to convince John to come with them but he refuses to leave his patients, so Darby tells him if there was anything he could ever do to repay him for saving his life, he'd do it.
Which is how Darby ends up the guardian of Marley, a young girl. But Marley doesn't come alone, she comes with John's sister, Sadie, who is an adult. It's clear from the beginning something isn't quite right about the entire situation and Darby feels it too, but he's torn between honoring the wishes of his now deceased friend and following his gut. The problem is that you don't just take in a seemingly widowed woman into your home without the risk of ruining her reputation, so after much thought Darby decides he needs to marry her. Just as sparks start to fly between the two of them, Sadie's past comes full force into their relationship. The really great part about this book is that we really have two books in one. First, we have Sadie and Darby's relationship and their interactions (which are kind of great), and trying to confirm to the societal norms of the time. But we also have a subplot where Marley and her safety is the primary focus. Sadie knows about Marley's real family and how she became part of John Hamilton's family and then it all comes full circle because you know from the very beginning of the book that Darby is a man of integrity who would stop at nothing to keep someone safe. John, knowing this, set the wheels in motion for Darby to eventually be the caretaker of Marley to ensure her safety, and Sadie (who truly doesn't KNOW Darby) will have to trust that her brother knew what he was doing.
Overall? Good book! I really enjoyed it and I would really recommend it if you are a fan of historical romances for sure.
August 3, 2016
Setting: London
Point of View: Third person
Tense: Past
Sexual Content: for ages 18+ due to sex scenes
If you are a fan of historical romance set in 19th century London, you are in for a treat with A Reckless Promise. You don’t need to have read any of the other books in the series to enjoy this one. The author brought back her delightfully quirky characters with enough backstory to enlighten new readers, while introducing new problems and people.
In A Reckless Promise, Darby makes a hasty proposal to a woman he barely knows in order to keep up appearances after she delivers him a young girl as his ward and takes up residence in his home. Although the reader knows to expect a happily-ever-after, Kasey Michaels gave the characters enough secrets and problems to cast doubt on their ability to become a crazy-in-love couple.
The author continued the stories of the duke worrying about his family’s curse and Clarice avoiding her past while trying to become a lady in London society.
Darby’s love interest, Sadie, is also running from her past. Darby knows she’s keeping secrets, and he’s determined to figure out what she’s hiding. Sadie and Darby find one another aggravating, but they are actually well-suited for one another.
The story is fast-paced, well plotted, and includes a great twist at the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Reckless Promise. I loved seeing more of all the characters and learning more about them. I feel now that I know them all very well. One of the things I like best about The Little Season series is that none of the women are wilting flowers. For the time period, they are all very independent and opinionated.
Unfortunately, the friends (Darby, Rigby, Gabe, and Coop) have all found their loves, so I don’t think there will be any more books to this series. It makes me sad, because I love this series so much.
If you haven’t read any of The Little Season series yet, I strongly recommend it. Like I said, you don’t have to read them in order. Just read them, because they are awesome. They make me smile, laugh, and make my heart feel all warm and gooey at the end of each book. I give A Reckless Promise five out of five stars (A) for being everything I expected from this wonderful author.
Point of View: Third person
Tense: Past
Sexual Content: for ages 18+ due to sex scenes
If you are a fan of historical romance set in 19th century London, you are in for a treat with A Reckless Promise. You don’t need to have read any of the other books in the series to enjoy this one. The author brought back her delightfully quirky characters with enough backstory to enlighten new readers, while introducing new problems and people.
In A Reckless Promise, Darby makes a hasty proposal to a woman he barely knows in order to keep up appearances after she delivers him a young girl as his ward and takes up residence in his home. Although the reader knows to expect a happily-ever-after, Kasey Michaels gave the characters enough secrets and problems to cast doubt on their ability to become a crazy-in-love couple.
The author continued the stories of the duke worrying about his family’s curse and Clarice avoiding her past while trying to become a lady in London society.
Darby’s love interest, Sadie, is also running from her past. Darby knows she’s keeping secrets, and he’s determined to figure out what she’s hiding. Sadie and Darby find one another aggravating, but they are actually well-suited for one another.
The story is fast-paced, well plotted, and includes a great twist at the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Reckless Promise. I loved seeing more of all the characters and learning more about them. I feel now that I know them all very well. One of the things I like best about The Little Season series is that none of the women are wilting flowers. For the time period, they are all very independent and opinionated.
Unfortunately, the friends (Darby, Rigby, Gabe, and Coop) have all found their loves, so I don’t think there will be any more books to this series. It makes me sad, because I love this series so much.
If you haven’t read any of The Little Season series yet, I strongly recommend it. Like I said, you don’t have to read them in order. Just read them, because they are awesome. They make me smile, laugh, and make my heart feel all warm and gooey at the end of each book. I give A Reckless Promise five out of five stars (A) for being everything I expected from this wonderful author.
June 18, 2016
This was a lot more than your typical member of the ton has a young ward foisted upon him story. This was one of those stories where the secondary characters bring more to the story than the overall romance. Of course, there was a beautifully written romance happening within this story, but it was watching that romance bloom that gave it the overall appeal. These characters didn't just "fall in love" with one another. These were characters that not only did not trust one another, but who also kept secrets from the other. These were two people who had a common goal (the well-being of the child), and who agreed to link their lives together in "the child's best interest".
However, as I said above, it was the secondary characters (as well as the plot as a whole) that set this story apart from others. As much as I enjoyed watching these two characters go from un-trusting strangers, to friends, to more - I enjoyed seeing their friends help them along the way. The Duke and Duchess were probably my favorites of the story - not only due to the way they still "chased" each other almost into their sixties, but the way they defied conventions at every turn. Each secondary character had their own back-story and their own struggle which only makes the overall story feel more real.
I do think that the "final showdown" as it were with the bad guy in this story was not played out to its full potential in my opinion. I would have loved to have seen more there.
Overall - I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good historical novel (and who doesn't mind some sexual happenings before marriage).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
However, as I said above, it was the secondary characters (as well as the plot as a whole) that set this story apart from others. As much as I enjoyed watching these two characters go from un-trusting strangers, to friends, to more - I enjoyed seeing their friends help them along the way. The Duke and Duchess were probably my favorites of the story - not only due to the way they still "chased" each other almost into their sixties, but the way they defied conventions at every turn. Each secondary character had their own back-story and their own struggle which only makes the overall story feel more real.
I do think that the "final showdown" as it were with the bad guy in this story was not played out to its full potential in my opinion. I would have loved to have seen more there.
Overall - I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good historical novel (and who doesn't mind some sexual happenings before marriage).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
August 6, 2016
I've been reading a lot of regency romance novels lately. I think I'm on a roll. Some of them have been good and others ho hum, but this one was really great. I think that's because this was a Kasey Michaels novel and she always brings it.
Darby is an imperfect hero, having lost an eye in the fight with Napoleon. Sadie is the sister to one of his comrades and she shows up when he died with her brother's young daughter, Marley. There are so many secrets involving this little girl, and it takes awhile for Sadie to give up her part in the story and even longer to find out why Marley needs to be kept safe.
This is the third book in the Little Season series, but one that you can read without the the others, though it really worth it to read the others, because they are great too. You get so many fabulous characters from the other books too, that make this story fabulous.
There's a subplot involving Clarice that is both heartbreaking and hilarious, involving a visiting family from Virginia who are part of her past and a horse.
Darby is the dark brooding hero. (A bit like Heathcliff) At least that's how it seems at first, but as the book progresses, you can tell he's anything but. He's truly a fun hero that you love almost instantly and he truly loves Sadie. I really wanted them to get married before the very end of the book.
I loved everything about this book, romance, intrigue and even humor. I only had one gripe with the book, I wanted more near the end. It came together a little quickly and would have liked to have some more with one of Marley's family members. (I don't want to give anything away)
If you are a lover of regency romance, you can't miss A Reckless Promise or any of the other books in the Little Season series.
Darby is an imperfect hero, having lost an eye in the fight with Napoleon. Sadie is the sister to one of his comrades and she shows up when he died with her brother's young daughter, Marley. There are so many secrets involving this little girl, and it takes awhile for Sadie to give up her part in the story and even longer to find out why Marley needs to be kept safe.
This is the third book in the Little Season series, but one that you can read without the the others, though it really worth it to read the others, because they are great too. You get so many fabulous characters from the other books too, that make this story fabulous.
There's a subplot involving Clarice that is both heartbreaking and hilarious, involving a visiting family from Virginia who are part of her past and a horse.
Darby is the dark brooding hero. (A bit like Heathcliff) At least that's how it seems at first, but as the book progresses, you can tell he's anything but. He's truly a fun hero that you love almost instantly and he truly loves Sadie. I really wanted them to get married before the very end of the book.
I loved everything about this book, romance, intrigue and even humor. I only had one gripe with the book, I wanted more near the end. It came together a little quickly and would have liked to have some more with one of Marley's family members. (I don't want to give anything away)
If you are a lover of regency romance, you can't miss A Reckless Promise or any of the other books in the Little Season series.
June 19, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this wonderful and highly anticipated romance by one of my favorite authors.
The characters were real with thoughts and feelings of their own. This book kept my interest from the first page. I like a romance with a bit of mystery entered into the story line.
You have a man who hasn't really thought about his past at the moment. Of course during the war he did his duty, but making promises to a friend has come back to haunt him.
Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, has a situation that involves a child arriving on his doorstep along with her aunt. He was surprised to say the least being a bachelor.
His promise that he made to his friend during wartime, to look after his daughter. Now said daughter is his ward, and doesn't know the first thing about children. Only that they are nuisances and very loud.
Darby meets the aunt Sadie Grace Boxer, who is very mistrustful, overbearing and opinionated woman he's ever met. She is bossy and lets Darby have it a time or two. She's was her brother's assistant when he was alive, now she has to look after her niece, because they have nowhere else to go.
Darby sees a lot more to this aunt than she's telling him and wants to find out what it is. Sadie is keeping her secrets to herself no matter what. Then the handsome man asks her to marry him which would solve his problem of match making mama's pushing their offspring at him. Poor Sadie doesn't know which way is up in the public eye of the ton.
I thought both Darby and Sadie were meant for each other and were glad they had their happy ever after.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
The characters were real with thoughts and feelings of their own. This book kept my interest from the first page. I like a romance with a bit of mystery entered into the story line.
You have a man who hasn't really thought about his past at the moment. Of course during the war he did his duty, but making promises to a friend has come back to haunt him.
Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, has a situation that involves a child arriving on his doorstep along with her aunt. He was surprised to say the least being a bachelor.
His promise that he made to his friend during wartime, to look after his daughter. Now said daughter is his ward, and doesn't know the first thing about children. Only that they are nuisances and very loud.
Darby meets the aunt Sadie Grace Boxer, who is very mistrustful, overbearing and opinionated woman he's ever met. She is bossy and lets Darby have it a time or two. She's was her brother's assistant when he was alive, now she has to look after her niece, because they have nowhere else to go.
Darby sees a lot more to this aunt than she's telling him and wants to find out what it is. Sadie is keeping her secrets to herself no matter what. Then the handsome man asks her to marry him which would solve his problem of match making mama's pushing their offspring at him. Poor Sadie doesn't know which way is up in the public eye of the ton.
I thought both Darby and Sadie were meant for each other and were glad they had their happy ever after.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
June 27, 2016
Synopsis:
London's Little Season has never been so scandalous
It's the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he'll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart.
My Thoughts:
I have previously read a few other books by Kasey Michaels. This is book #3 in this series but the first one I have read. In this reader's opinion this could very well be her best series yet. It made me want to go back and read the first two. This book will bring you to laughter and tears. A very precocious child who at times is a scene stealer and also the heart of this story is a great addition to the wonderfully funny characters in this storyline.
Well developed characters and a great story to boot makes this book in this readers opinion not to be missed..
I gave this book a full 5 stars.
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
London's Little Season has never been so scandalous
It's the kind of vow often made on the battlefield. Darby Travers, Viscount Nailbourne, never imagines he'll have to honor it. Yet here she is on his doorstep—his late comrade's young daughter, and Darby's new ward. Worse, she comes with the most overprotective, mistrustful, bothersome chaperone—the child's aunt, Sadie Grace Boxer. Darby is quite sure that behind her lovely facade, the woman is guarding a secret.
Sadie Grace faced many trials working in her brother's surgery, but none prepared her for the world she's thrust into with his passing. Navigating the ton, with its endless ball gowns and parade of parties, is difficult enough, but hiding the truth about her niece while the sophisticated viscount watches her every move proves nearly impossible—particularly when his searing gaze tempts her to bare all. But when her family's past catches up with her, she'll have to trust in Darby…no matter the cost to her heart.
My Thoughts:
I have previously read a few other books by Kasey Michaels. This is book #3 in this series but the first one I have read. In this reader's opinion this could very well be her best series yet. It made me want to go back and read the first two. This book will bring you to laughter and tears. A very precocious child who at times is a scene stealer and also the heart of this story is a great addition to the wonderfully funny characters in this storyline.
Well developed characters and a great story to boot makes this book in this readers opinion not to be missed..
I gave this book a full 5 stars.
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2016
I haven't had the pleasure of reading the first two books of this series. I'm kinda sad I didn't before reading this one. I don't feel they're necessary to enjoy Reckless, but I feel they probably would have enhanced my experience.
From the beginning, I was swept into Darby and Sadie's world. The emotional upheaval of war and the promise it brought between two men set the pace for what I hoped would be an incredible read. It was and I wasn't disappointed.
The secrecy of Sadie's past is heavily present throughout this story. But Darby's determination to unravel the mystery that is Sadie was just as prevalent. Finding out what Sadie kept so carefully hidden was a monumental moment. The events that followed capitalized on the attraction that had developed between Darby and Sadie but also the fulfillment of Darby's promise to Sadie's brother.
What stuck out the most was Sadie's selflessness. Everything she did was for others. In some stories, I've seen that kind of strain wear on a woman until she snaps. For Sadie, it only strengthened her character, gave her courage to continue doing what she did, making sure she did what was necessary to protect her niece and honor her brother's wishes. And, I feel, Darby not only saw that but appreciated it as well.
I enjoyed every word of this story. Ms. Michaels gave me characters and a setting that were engaging and intriguing, dialogue that was lighthearted at times and heavier at others, and tender moments that made my heart smile. A beautiful tale about promises made and fulfilled, and lives altered for the better.
Received from publisher for an honest review
From the beginning, I was swept into Darby and Sadie's world. The emotional upheaval of war and the promise it brought between two men set the pace for what I hoped would be an incredible read. It was and I wasn't disappointed.
The secrecy of Sadie's past is heavily present throughout this story. But Darby's determination to unravel the mystery that is Sadie was just as prevalent. Finding out what Sadie kept so carefully hidden was a monumental moment. The events that followed capitalized on the attraction that had developed between Darby and Sadie but also the fulfillment of Darby's promise to Sadie's brother.
What stuck out the most was Sadie's selflessness. Everything she did was for others. In some stories, I've seen that kind of strain wear on a woman until she snaps. For Sadie, it only strengthened her character, gave her courage to continue doing what she did, making sure she did what was necessary to protect her niece and honor her brother's wishes. And, I feel, Darby not only saw that but appreciated it as well.
I enjoyed every word of this story. Ms. Michaels gave me characters and a setting that were engaging and intriguing, dialogue that was lighthearted at times and heavier at others, and tender moments that made my heart smile. A beautiful tale about promises made and fulfilled, and lives altered for the better.
Received from publisher for an honest review
July 9, 2019
Et voila, je clôture une nouvelle série historique. Une série qui m'a fait passer de bons moments.
Pour ce dernier tome, nous suivons le dernier du quatuor de "gentlemen". J'ai nommé Darby, le fanfaron de la bande, Vicomte de son état. Il se voit rappeler une promesse qu'il a formuler un peu plus d'un an auparavant auprès de l'homme qui a réussi à lui sauver la vie.
Si je dois comparer les trois tomes entre eux. C'est celui que j'ai le moins aimé par la façon dont le début s'est déroulé. Cela a été une impression de rapidité extrême. J'avoue que j'ai été un peu perdue par cet enchaînement de situation. Puis l'histoire prend son rythme de croisière et on profite de l'intrigue et de la romance. Au premier abord, Marley laisse une mauvaise impression, mais au fil du temps on s'attache à cette petite fille de sept ans qui s'attache rapidement à tous ceux qui l'entourent. J'ai aimé Sadie, la tante de Marley assez rapidement. Elle a du caractère et ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds. Mais évoluer dans le monde de la noblesse la déstabilise un peu. Quant à Darby, il reste le même. Prêt à plaisanter pour un oui ou un non. Mais qui cache au fond de lui un élément de son passé qui lui pourrit la vie.
Concernant l'histoire, je l'ai bien aimé dans son ensemble. Elle est intéressante et amusante avec la partie sur le duc de Cranbrook et sa peur de je cite "couic" avant ses soixante ans. Toute cette bande est sympathique et j'ai pris plaisir à suivre leur dernière aventure.
Pour conclure, j'ai apprécié de découvrir une nouvelle série et la plume d'une nouvelle auteure. Ce fut une bonne série historique.
Pour ce dernier tome, nous suivons le dernier du quatuor de "gentlemen". J'ai nommé Darby, le fanfaron de la bande, Vicomte de son état. Il se voit rappeler une promesse qu'il a formuler un peu plus d'un an auparavant auprès de l'homme qui a réussi à lui sauver la vie.
Si je dois comparer les trois tomes entre eux. C'est celui que j'ai le moins aimé par la façon dont le début s'est déroulé. Cela a été une impression de rapidité extrême. J'avoue que j'ai été un peu perdue par cet enchaînement de situation. Puis l'histoire prend son rythme de croisière et on profite de l'intrigue et de la romance. Au premier abord, Marley laisse une mauvaise impression, mais au fil du temps on s'attache à cette petite fille de sept ans qui s'attache rapidement à tous ceux qui l'entourent. J'ai aimé Sadie, la tante de Marley assez rapidement. Elle a du caractère et ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds. Mais évoluer dans le monde de la noblesse la déstabilise un peu. Quant à Darby, il reste le même. Prêt à plaisanter pour un oui ou un non. Mais qui cache au fond de lui un élément de son passé qui lui pourrit la vie.
Concernant l'histoire, je l'ai bien aimé dans son ensemble. Elle est intéressante et amusante avec la partie sur le duc de Cranbrook et sa peur de je cite "couic" avant ses soixante ans. Toute cette bande est sympathique et j'ai pris plaisir à suivre leur dernière aventure.
Pour conclure, j'ai apprécié de découvrir une nouvelle série et la plume d'une nouvelle auteure. Ce fut une bonne série historique.
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