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Providence #2
Tempting Fate
THE FEUD BETWEEN THEM HAS SCANDALIZED THE TON FOR YEARS.
Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston, is every debutante's dream come true. Handsome, rich, and a prime catch on the Marriage Mart, Whit is also reputed to be one of the most unflappable gentlemen in all England. Nothing ever puts him in a temper. Until...
He comes within twenty feet of Miss Mirabelle Browning and loses all control. The women in his household believe divine providence sent Mira to live on the estate adjoining theirs. After the hellion breaks his nose, Whit decides that the divine has nothing to do with it. Until...
He kisses her. After all, it was either that, or wring her neck. But when sparks fly, he's forced to admit that there might be something to this destiny thing after all. If he can just convince Mirabelle to give fate--and love--a chance.
Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston, is every debutante's dream come true. Handsome, rich, and a prime catch on the Marriage Mart, Whit is also reputed to be one of the most unflappable gentlemen in all England. Nothing ever puts him in a temper. Until...
He comes within twenty feet of Miss Mirabelle Browning and loses all control. The women in his household believe divine providence sent Mira to live on the estate adjoining theirs. After the hellion breaks his nose, Whit decides that the divine has nothing to do with it. Until...
He kisses her. After all, it was either that, or wring her neck. But when sparks fly, he's forced to admit that there might be something to this destiny thing after all. If he can just convince Mirabelle to give fate--and love--a chance.
307 pages, Paperback
First published January 27, 2009
801 people are currently reading
1303 people want to read
About the author
Alissa Johnson
19 books368 followersAlissa Johnson lives in the rolling hills of the Ozarks, where she is hard at work on her next romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
August 1, 2010
My 2nd read by Ms. Johnson, her 2nd release (she's a relatively new author) and, yay, another winner. :)
Note on the series: You must read As Luck Would Have It before this one, because the 1st book has a plot twist that will be spoiled if you read these books out of order. The secret is out of the bag (for us readers, not the leading characters) in this 2nd book, but I won't mention it here and I'll write my review around it.
Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston, and Mirabelle Browning were introduced in the 1st book and it was clear from the start that they were meant to be together. Tempting Fate is their book, one that I grabbed imediately after I finished its predecessor.
When Mira was only 7 years old, her parents died in an outbreak of influenza and she was left in the guard of Lord Eppersly, an uncle she barely knew. It didn't take long until she realized that her guardian was a dissolute, debauched gentleman she should avoid at all cost. Luckily for her, Lady Thurston, one of her uncle's neighbors, decided to take Mira under her wings and basically raised her like she was one of her children. And that's how Mira became an honorary member of the Cole family... and a thorn on Whit's side.
No one knows exactly when Whit and Mira became "enemies for life" - and no one really cares, LOL - but their constant verbal sparring is a source of amusement for his family and friends. However, his mother asks them to put a stop to that - if not forever, at least temporarily. After some pondering, Whit and Mira agree... and, at first, don't know what to do with each other, since all they've done since they met is tease each other mercilessly. Obviously, they find new interesting things to do with each other soon enough... ;) But danger lurks around when William Fletcher, the head of England's War Department and a friend of the Cole family, tells Whit he suspects that Lord Eppersly is involved in forgery and asks him to spy on Mira's uncle. Eventually, Mira joins Whit on that mission and the more time they spend together, the more they realize there's more to their relationship than they thought.
This was a very fun, lovely read. Light but not fluffy, the strength of the story rests on the characters' charm. The witty banter and verbal sparring between Whit and Mira was delightful to read: it was clever, dynamic and humorous, without ever being mean or hurtful - not even when they still thought they "hated" each other. They gave as good as they get, with playfulness and no resentment. I loved them to pieces!
As the previous book in the series, the plot was far-fetched at times, but I was more than OK with it. These books are pure entertainment, and there's nothing wrong with that. Quite the contrary. :D
Note on the series: You must read As Luck Would Have It before this one, because the 1st book has a plot twist that will be spoiled if you read these books out of order. The secret is out of the bag (for us readers, not the leading characters) in this 2nd book, but I won't mention it here and I'll write my review around it.
Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston, and Mirabelle Browning were introduced in the 1st book and it was clear from the start that they were meant to be together. Tempting Fate is their book, one that I grabbed imediately after I finished its predecessor.
When Mira was only 7 years old, her parents died in an outbreak of influenza and she was left in the guard of Lord Eppersly, an uncle she barely knew. It didn't take long until she realized that her guardian was a dissolute, debauched gentleman she should avoid at all cost. Luckily for her, Lady Thurston, one of her uncle's neighbors, decided to take Mira under her wings and basically raised her like she was one of her children. And that's how Mira became an honorary member of the Cole family... and a thorn on Whit's side.
No one knows exactly when Whit and Mira became "enemies for life" - and no one really cares, LOL - but their constant verbal sparring is a source of amusement for his family and friends. However, his mother asks them to put a stop to that - if not forever, at least temporarily. After some pondering, Whit and Mira agree... and, at first, don't know what to do with each other, since all they've done since they met is tease each other mercilessly. Obviously, they find new interesting things to do with each other soon enough... ;) But danger lurks around when William Fletcher, the head of England's War Department and a friend of the Cole family, tells Whit he suspects that Lord Eppersly is involved in forgery and asks him to spy on Mira's uncle. Eventually, Mira joins Whit on that mission and the more time they spend together, the more they realize there's more to their relationship than they thought.
This was a very fun, lovely read. Light but not fluffy, the strength of the story rests on the characters' charm. The witty banter and verbal sparring between Whit and Mira was delightful to read: it was clever, dynamic and humorous, without ever being mean or hurtful - not even when they still thought they "hated" each other. They gave as good as they get, with playfulness and no resentment. I loved them to pieces!
As the previous book in the series, the plot was far-fetched at times, but I was more than OK with it. These books are pure entertainment, and there's nothing wrong with that. Quite the contrary. :D
August 10, 2010
Thanks, Goodreads friends! I have been looking for new historical romance authors and Alissa Johnson fills the bill. She tells a funny, sweet story with characters I like and want to see happy. That's all I've ever asked of my light HR. Is it really so hard? Maybe it is, but Johnson gives it to me anyway.
Her style is very much like Julia Quinn with a lot of witty banter and some silly situational comedy. Tempting Fate is the story of two people who grew up together, reveling in their incessant acrimony. They baited one another, played tricks on each other and dropped about ten years from their maturity level every time they entered the other's breathing space. It would be annoying if their barbs weren't so hilarious and equally delivered.
Making a deal to please a loved one, they call a truce. All it takes is about one day for them to realize they enjoy not fighting just as much, if not more, than they enjoy fighting. The romance blossoms believably and without false obstructions.
There is a danger plot that comes in at the end that's fairly convoluted, but it's a nice set piece to show how dedicated and committed this couple is.
Bonus: for the moment, Johnson is published by a reasonable publisher who doesn't rip the reader off on the e-books. I'm buying all the rest of her releases today before they can change their minds.
Her style is very much like Julia Quinn with a lot of witty banter and some silly situational comedy. Tempting Fate is the story of two people who grew up together, reveling in their incessant acrimony. They baited one another, played tricks on each other and dropped about ten years from their maturity level every time they entered the other's breathing space. It would be annoying if their barbs weren't so hilarious and equally delivered.
Making a deal to please a loved one, they call a truce. All it takes is about one day for them to realize they enjoy not fighting just as much, if not more, than they enjoy fighting. The romance blossoms believably and without false obstructions.
There is a danger plot that comes in at the end that's fairly convoluted, but it's a nice set piece to show how dedicated and committed this couple is.
Bonus: for the moment, Johnson is published by a reasonable publisher who doesn't rip the reader off on the e-books. I'm buying all the rest of her releases today before they can change their minds.
December 10, 2025
Fantastic beginning, stupid middle-to-end plot
I read the first and even though I didn't love the silliness of the plot, these two intrigued me enough I was curious about them.
── .⋆˙⟡⋮ The fantastic part
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
I read the first and even though I didn't love the silliness of the plot, these two intrigued me enough I was curious about them.
── .⋆˙⟡⋮ The fantastic part
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
September 29, 2010
I finished the first book, As Luck Would Have It, and immediately picked up this one. Thank goodness I bought the first two at once! Whenever Whit and Mirabelle came on screen in the first book they stole the show. Their frenemy banter just popped off the page and made me impatient to read their story.
Before I get into my review, I should probably be upfront about something. I love the frenemies to lovers trope. I don't want all out blood enemies, but I like reading about characters who dislike each other but have a reluctant attraction underneath all the bickering. I want to watch them slowly fall in love while they slowly stop sniping at each other. Or if they continue bickering, it should be more joking and less malicious. By the way, feel free to tell me about these books if you run across them!
So, my not-so-secret joy in this trope made me instantly interested in reading Whit and Mirabelle's book. I think that my expectations, or more accurately, my unmet expectations, are what made this book only average for me. The book started off well, with their bickering in attendance, but it didn't last long. Whit's mother requests that he and Mirabelle call a truce for a while and out of love and respect for her, they do.
That's about where things started to decline for me. That was really early in the story, unfortunately, and they didn't seem to have a problem getting over their little feud. To be honest, that's where the relationship lost all tension other than the outside influences that cropped up in the book.
The book was still good, but it veered more toward the sweet end than the snarky end. At certain moments that was really appreciated, like when Mirabelle was almost badly injured and Whit tried to act matter of fact about it, but his hand shook when he stroked her hair. I swear, I just melted over that. So sweet! But most other times I really missed the spark they first had.
I felt really bad for Mirabelle's life with her uncle. I don't blame her at all for keeping it to herself. I totally understood why she would feel that way about sharing it with Whit. I really liked her overall attitude. She was very pragmatic and only wanted to safeguard her pride until she was free.
The only other thing I would have preferred to see in this story was a less convoluted storyline there at the end. I honestly felt a bit like the author threw in everything but the kitchen sink in the hopes of making it even zanier. It would have been nice if we could have just skipped that all.
I see that McAlistair's story is next. I plan to read it, but I have to admit I'm a bit leery. He came off a bit creepy and stalkerish in this book. I also sense some emo-ness in the wings. But I'm ready for this author to prove me wrong! I've got my fingers crossed that I'll like it as much as I did the first!
Before I get into my review, I should probably be upfront about something. I love the frenemies to lovers trope. I don't want all out blood enemies, but I like reading about characters who dislike each other but have a reluctant attraction underneath all the bickering. I want to watch them slowly fall in love while they slowly stop sniping at each other. Or if they continue bickering, it should be more joking and less malicious. By the way, feel free to tell me about these books if you run across them!
So, my not-so-secret joy in this trope made me instantly interested in reading Whit and Mirabelle's book. I think that my expectations, or more accurately, my unmet expectations, are what made this book only average for me. The book started off well, with their bickering in attendance, but it didn't last long. Whit's mother requests that he and Mirabelle call a truce for a while and out of love and respect for her, they do.
That's about where things started to decline for me. That was really early in the story, unfortunately, and they didn't seem to have a problem getting over their little feud. To be honest, that's where the relationship lost all tension other than the outside influences that cropped up in the book.
The book was still good, but it veered more toward the sweet end than the snarky end. At certain moments that was really appreciated, like when Mirabelle was almost badly injured and Whit tried to act matter of fact about it, but his hand shook when he stroked her hair. I swear, I just melted over that. So sweet! But most other times I really missed the spark they first had.
I felt really bad for Mirabelle's life with her uncle. I don't blame her at all for keeping it to herself. I totally understood why she would feel that way about sharing it with Whit. I really liked her overall attitude. She was very pragmatic and only wanted to safeguard her pride until she was free.
The only other thing I would have preferred to see in this story was a less convoluted storyline there at the end. I honestly felt a bit like the author threw in everything but the kitchen sink in the hopes of making it even zanier. It would have been nice if we could have just skipped that all.
I see that McAlistair's story is next. I plan to read it, but I have to admit I'm a bit leery. He came off a bit creepy and stalkerish in this book. I also sense some emo-ness in the wings. But I'm ready for this author to prove me wrong! I've got my fingers crossed that I'll like it as much as I did the first!
April 19, 2022
This romance was a real find! I immediately added it to my list of favorites (4.5 stars - updated to 4 stars on second reading)
[Setting: 1813, England]
Miss Mirabelle Browning (25) and Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston (31) have been nemeses since first meeting as children eighteen years ago. When Whit's mother forces a truce upon them at her week-long house party, they are finally forced to look beyond the constant barbs and banter they've been exchanging for nearly two decades, and get to know one another as people.
As the love story unfolds, there are a few subplots that are revealed at the same time. One is that certain people might be trying to help their romance along, and another is one that could put Mirabelle in danger and makes her doubt that she and Whit can ever have their HEA.
PROVIDENCE SERIES
1) As Luck Would Have It - Miss Sophie Everton and Alex Durmant, Duke of Rockeforte
2) Tempting Fate - Miss Mirabelle Browning and Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston (4.5 stars)
3) McAlistair's Fortune - Miss Evie Cole and Mr. James McAlistair (4 stars)
4) Destined to Last - Lady Kate Cole and Mr. Andrew Hunter
MAIN CHARACTERS
Mirabelle is my favorite type of heroine: unusual, independent, self-reliant, strong, intelligent, and somewhat the wallflower-type. I say "somewhat" because she's not a wallflower and she's definitely not quiet, however she can be unsure of herself, isn't considered beautiful, is on the more mature side age-wise, and doesn't think she'll ever find love. Her home life has been difficult, starting with being orphaned at the age of 7 when her neglectful and indifferent parents died. She was then sent to live with her cruel, greedy, and dumb uncle, who has barely supported her financially since and who continues to try to control and scare her. Luckily, his next-door neighbors are the Coles, who take Mirabelle in and basically become her family.
Whittaker is a *wonderful* hero! Like most historical romance readers, I'm a sucker for those great rakes and rogues, but this book reminded me that having a nice guy hero is just as enjoyable, though for completely different reasons. Whit has been trying for many years to restore his family's respect and honor and though he is the "perfect gentleman," don't think that he's boring or staid. Of course, when Mirabelle is around, sparks fly, his "perfect gentleman" persona starts to slip, and the control he so greatly prizes goes right out the window.
MY OPINION
*SO FANTASTIC!!!* Thank you to my Goodreads friends who recommended Tempting Fate, because it was amazing and I now have an all-time favorite book to add my list, as well as a watch-for author. (And have already ordered two others in the series, so while I thank them, my pocketbook does not! ;-).
Yesterday I read Miss Wonderful (Carsington Brothers, Book 1) and couldn't help but wax poetically about its hero, Alistair. While he's still fabulous and if he showed up on my door, I would definitely welcome him in, Whit is my current knight in shining armor, lol. I loved the antagonism between him and Mirabelle - the banter was witty and entertaining - and when they started "getting along," their exchanges were even better.
The only thing I would change was the additional plot twists in the last third of the book. They were unnecessary and detracted, IMHO, from the overall romance story. Obstacles are needed, yes, but Johnson threw a few too many in there at the end and it clouded up the simple delight of seeing Mirabelle and Whit get their HEA. For this reason, I had to knock my rating down from 5 stars to 4.5. I'll still be rereading it several times in the future though!
UPDATE, 8/23/2010: I just read McAlistair's Fortune and it was absolutely wonderful!! While I gave it a lower rating than this book (4 stars), I think that McAlistair has replaced Whit in my affection ... I know, I'm flighty, I can't help it! Read the book and you'll see - I actually dare you NOT to fall in love with McAlistair!!
(Written August 19, 2010)
[Setting: 1813, England]
Miss Mirabelle Browning (25) and Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston (31) have been nemeses since first meeting as children eighteen years ago. When Whit's mother forces a truce upon them at her week-long house party, they are finally forced to look beyond the constant barbs and banter they've been exchanging for nearly two decades, and get to know one another as people.
As the love story unfolds, there are a few subplots that are revealed at the same time. One is that certain people might be trying to help their romance along, and another is one that could put Mirabelle in danger and makes her doubt that she and Whit can ever have their HEA.
PROVIDENCE SERIES
1) As Luck Would Have It - Miss Sophie Everton and Alex Durmant, Duke of Rockeforte
2) Tempting Fate - Miss Mirabelle Browning and Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston (4.5 stars)
3) McAlistair's Fortune - Miss Evie Cole and Mr. James McAlistair (4 stars)
4) Destined to Last - Lady Kate Cole and Mr. Andrew Hunter
MAIN CHARACTERS
Mirabelle is my favorite type of heroine: unusual, independent, self-reliant, strong, intelligent, and somewhat the wallflower-type. I say "somewhat" because she's not a wallflower and she's definitely not quiet, however she can be unsure of herself, isn't considered beautiful, is on the more mature side age-wise, and doesn't think she'll ever find love. Her home life has been difficult, starting with being orphaned at the age of 7 when her neglectful and indifferent parents died. She was then sent to live with her cruel, greedy, and dumb uncle, who has barely supported her financially since and who continues to try to control and scare her. Luckily, his next-door neighbors are the Coles, who take Mirabelle in and basically become her family.
Whittaker is a *wonderful* hero! Like most historical romance readers, I'm a sucker for those great rakes and rogues, but this book reminded me that having a nice guy hero is just as enjoyable, though for completely different reasons. Whit has been trying for many years to restore his family's respect and honor and though he is the "perfect gentleman," don't think that he's boring or staid. Of course, when Mirabelle is around, sparks fly, his "perfect gentleman" persona starts to slip, and the control he so greatly prizes goes right out the window.
MY OPINION
*SO FANTASTIC!!!* Thank you to my Goodreads friends who recommended Tempting Fate, because it was amazing and I now have an all-time favorite book to add my list, as well as a watch-for author. (And have already ordered two others in the series, so while I thank them, my pocketbook does not! ;-).
Yesterday I read Miss Wonderful (Carsington Brothers, Book 1) and couldn't help but wax poetically about its hero, Alistair. While he's still fabulous and if he showed up on my door, I would definitely welcome him in, Whit is my current knight in shining armor, lol. I loved the antagonism between him and Mirabelle - the banter was witty and entertaining - and when they started "getting along," their exchanges were even better.
The only thing I would change was the additional plot twists in the last third of the book. They were unnecessary and detracted, IMHO, from the overall romance story. Obstacles are needed, yes, but Johnson threw a few too many in there at the end and it clouded up the simple delight of seeing Mirabelle and Whit get their HEA. For this reason, I had to knock my rating down from 5 stars to 4.5. I'll still be rereading it several times in the future though!
UPDATE, 8/23/2010: I just read McAlistair's Fortune and it was absolutely wonderful!! While I gave it a lower rating than this book (4 stars), I think that McAlistair has replaced Whit in my affection ... I know, I'm flighty, I can't help it! Read the book and you'll see - I actually dare you NOT to fall in love with McAlistair!!
(Written August 19, 2010)
October 1, 2019
2 stars. I’m finished with this series. The manufactured danger that Mr Matchmaker creates to throw a couple together is idiocy! All the H/h friends agreeing to be accomplices defies belief. So far, both of these matchmaking adventures I’ve read have resulted in injury and characters almost getting killed. Dumb.
November 10, 2014
4.5 stars
I loved it. Maybe it has not not very passionate story but it's well writen, fluent and delighted to read.
I loved it. Maybe it has not not very passionate story but it's well writen, fluent and delighted to read.
July 27, 2022
I decided to binge this series and this was BY FAR my favorite of the set. It had a lot of ingredients I really enjoy: fun enemies to lovers (bickering but not ugliness), importance of family, away from London, and childhood friends.
Johnson somehow created an effervescent story that perfectly balanced the tension of the two characters because of their relentless, years-long bickering and teasing, but also the closeness that came with growing up together and knowing each other for so long.
I liked how once they both really tried to put all the bickering aside, they had some deep conversations and the relationship and intimacy developed organically from there. There is a tinge of sad/bittersweet in the story as you find out why Mira spent so much time with Whit's family, but Whit comes through as her champion and as he acknowledges his feelings, he stays there for the long haul.
Loved this character-driven story from beginning to end. Highly recommended. I also read the other books in this series and this can be read as a standalone. The first book I could not finish, so don't start there. This was a great place in the series to start and it was the strongest one of the bunch in my opinion.
Johnson somehow created an effervescent story that perfectly balanced the tension of the two characters because of their relentless, years-long bickering and teasing, but also the closeness that came with growing up together and knowing each other for so long.
I liked how once they both really tried to put all the bickering aside, they had some deep conversations and the relationship and intimacy developed organically from there. There is a tinge of sad/bittersweet in the story as you find out why Mira spent so much time with Whit's family, but Whit comes through as her champion and as he acknowledges his feelings, he stays there for the long haul.
Loved this character-driven story from beginning to end. Highly recommended. I also read the other books in this series and this can be read as a standalone. The first book I could not finish, so don't start there. This was a great place in the series to start and it was the strongest one of the bunch in my opinion.
February 22, 2009
I very much enjoyed reading "Tempting Fate" by Alissa Johnson. The tenor of this story is light as air, with a healthy dose of sexual tension around the main characters that we can see from the beginning are perfect for each other...if they could just quit arguing.
Mira was left an orphan when her parents died, and their will placed her under the care of a distant relative who turned out to be a thorough rotter! But as luck would have it, she literally fell into the company of a similarly aged girl on a neighboring estate and ended up spending most of her time there, an honorary member of the family. Over the years, she's gotten plenty of enjoyment from teasing, fighting, and insulting the oldest brother and heir Whittaker. Now if she can just hold for two more years, she'll be out from under the heel of her nasty relative.
Whit is handsome, rich, and quite a catch. If he could only stomach the simpering girls of the ton, he'd be a much happier man. Well, that and if he could quit letting Mira get the best of him. With his mother's house party in jeopardy, she extracts a promise from Whit and Mira to be 'nice' to each other and on their best behavior. Imagine their surprise when, with no insults to banter, they discover something a bit more...
I enjoyed "Tempting Fate" so much that I just ordered Alissa Johnson's first book "As Luck Would Have It". This story is not a serious, dramatic one. Rather it's hugely comical, with lightning-quick repartee and hot sexual tension. A perfect afternoon break for a smile and a laugh.
Mira was left an orphan when her parents died, and their will placed her under the care of a distant relative who turned out to be a thorough rotter! But as luck would have it, she literally fell into the company of a similarly aged girl on a neighboring estate and ended up spending most of her time there, an honorary member of the family. Over the years, she's gotten plenty of enjoyment from teasing, fighting, and insulting the oldest brother and heir Whittaker. Now if she can just hold for two more years, she'll be out from under the heel of her nasty relative.
Whit is handsome, rich, and quite a catch. If he could only stomach the simpering girls of the ton, he'd be a much happier man. Well, that and if he could quit letting Mira get the best of him. With his mother's house party in jeopardy, she extracts a promise from Whit and Mira to be 'nice' to each other and on their best behavior. Imagine their surprise when, with no insults to banter, they discover something a bit more...
I enjoyed "Tempting Fate" so much that I just ordered Alissa Johnson's first book "As Luck Would Have It". This story is not a serious, dramatic one. Rather it's hugely comical, with lightning-quick repartee and hot sexual tension. A perfect afternoon break for a smile and a laugh.
September 19, 2013
****3.6ish Stars****
I tore through this one quickly and with an odd mixture of enjoyment and impatience. Enjoyment because Alissa Johnson's writing is so witty, sharp and engaging. Impatience because I found myself guiltily eager to move on to books that feature H/h relationships more in line with my personal preferences. If you enjoy the classic 'love/hate' dynamic, and you don't mind when the latter seems to sometimes outweigh the former because the H and h bicker, like, in nearly every single scene, then this is well worth purchasing. The dialogue is quite amusing and the author does a fairly skillful job of not allowing the H and h to cross the line from sparring partners to hateful harpies. For whatever reason, though, I've never been as charmed and enamored by the 'see, constant fighting and a woeful inability to get along for longer than a minute or two means we're actually soulmates, though it sure doesn't look that way' dynamic as most ;) I get how that passes for chemistry, but I always find myself wanting more genuine compatibility, commonality and connection and fearing that, in 'real' life, the love/hate couple would be heading to divorce court within a year or two of tying the knot!
It's funny and charming, though, and this second installment of the series does tie in nicely with the first. Recommended for those who enjoy a little silliness, intrigue, (and a somewhat silly execution of said intrigue!), love/hate couples, minimal steam (maybe a 2 out of 5), a generally merry, feel-good tone and awesomely sharp dialogue :)
I tore through this one quickly and with an odd mixture of enjoyment and impatience. Enjoyment because Alissa Johnson's writing is so witty, sharp and engaging. Impatience because I found myself guiltily eager to move on to books that feature H/h relationships more in line with my personal preferences. If you enjoy the classic 'love/hate' dynamic, and you don't mind when the latter seems to sometimes outweigh the former because the H and h bicker, like, in nearly every single scene, then this is well worth purchasing. The dialogue is quite amusing and the author does a fairly skillful job of not allowing the H and h to cross the line from sparring partners to hateful harpies. For whatever reason, though, I've never been as charmed and enamored by the 'see, constant fighting and a woeful inability to get along for longer than a minute or two means we're actually soulmates, though it sure doesn't look that way' dynamic as most ;) I get how that passes for chemistry, but I always find myself wanting more genuine compatibility, commonality and connection and fearing that, in 'real' life, the love/hate couple would be heading to divorce court within a year or two of tying the knot!
It's funny and charming, though, and this second installment of the series does tie in nicely with the first. Recommended for those who enjoy a little silliness, intrigue, (and a somewhat silly execution of said intrigue!), love/hate couples, minimal steam (maybe a 2 out of 5), a generally merry, feel-good tone and awesomely sharp dialogue :)
September 22, 2018
I love an enemies to lovers theme!!
Miss Mirabelle Browning
The heroines in this series are strong and intelligent. I love this author!!
Miss Mirabelle Browning
The heroines in this series are strong and intelligent. I love this author!!
May 16, 2024
”Because she had always loved him.
That realization didn’t arrive with music either, but it did feel as if it came weighted. She rubbed absently at the sudden tightness in her chest. All this time she’d loved him. While they’d fought and snarled and otherwise made themselves generally unpleasant to one another, she’d loved him.”
That realization didn’t arrive with music either, but it did feel as if it came weighted. She rubbed absently at the sudden tightness in her chest. All this time she’d loved him. While they’d fought and snarled and otherwise made themselves generally unpleasant to one another, she’d loved him.”
May 5, 2016
Esto es lo más parecido a un cuento de hadas que he leído últimamente. Así que si estás de humor para algo super tierno, romántico y simplón, esta historia te va a encantar. Yo lo estaba y me ha encantado.
Al principio, nada más conocer a los protagonistas, pensé que iban a tener alrededor de veinte años ya que se portan como auténticos críos, pero ha sido muy divertido. En otras circunstancias esto me hubiese puesto de los nervios y no hubiese acabado el libro, pero la autora me ha convencido, me ha enganchado desde el primer reglón, con esos dos protagonistas totalmente embelesados el uno con el otro, con sus rifirrafes, su sinceridad y sus diálogos y motes tan divertidos.
Really, Whit was about as perceptive as a… Well she (Mirabelle) didn´t know excatly. Something blind and deaf. Pity he wasn´t mute in the bargain.
Ja, ja, ja!
Me ha gustado que la historia se desarrolle en el campo, sin bailes, con paseos, con picnics… no es lo habitual…
Y por encima de todo me ha encantado que Whit, o como no quiere ser llamado, Whittaker Vincent Cole, Duque de Thurston, no es un mujeriego, ni un disoluto ni un libertino… oh no… él es un hombre honorable, cariñoso, familiar, atento y le preocupa su reputación y ser respetado en todos los círculos. Que original!! Ni una sola vez hemos tenido que escuchar sobre sus conquistas, o verlo jadeando tras Mira (Mirabelle) ni nada de eso. Creo que es lo que más me ha enganchado a la historia, la autora, de una manera muy sutil, tan sutil que los propios protagonistas no lo reconocen, nos deja entrever que son el uno para el otro… sigh…
During one of his most fanciful moments he (Whit) had imagined the two of them, old and grey, seated before the fire in the front parlor and taking swings at each other with their canes.
Es una historia muy divertida y romántica, aunque no te la puedes tomar muy en serio. Hay un montón de cosas que son tontísimas e improbables, como el “suspense” o el “plan” que organizan ciertos secundarios… Y los secundarios no son nada sutiles a la hora de dejar ver que están esperando su propia historia, pero con todo y eso, me ha encantado.
Leer sólo si puedes tolerar algo dulce y tontorrón.
This is the closest thing to a fairy tale I've read lately. So, if you are in the mood for something super tender, romantic and simple, you'll love this story. I was and I did.
At the beginning, when I met the MC´s, I thought they were going to be on their early twenties since they act like kids, they are older but it has been so funny. Under those circumstances the Mc´s should have grated on my nerves, but the author has convinced me, has hooked me from the start, with these two MC´s completely devoted to each other, with their banter, their sincerity and their funny nicknames.
Really, Whit was about as perceptive as to... Well she (Mirabelle) didn´t know excatly. Something blind and deaf. Pity he wasn´t mute in the bargain.
Lol!
I liked that the story was set in the country, without balls, with outings, picnics... is not the usual...
And above all I loved Whit, or as he doesn't want to be called, Whittaker Vincent Cole, Duke of Thurston, he is neither a womanizer, nor a dissolute nor a rake... oh no... He is an honorable, loving, attentive family man and is concerned about his reputation and seeking to be respected in his circle. So original! Not once had we to hear about his conquests, or see him panting after Mira (Mirabelle) or anything like that. I think this is what draws me to the story, the author, in a very subtle way, so subtle that the MC´s do not recognize it, suggests us that they are made for each other... sigh...
During one of his most fanciful moments he (Whit) had imagined the two of them, old and grey, seated before the fire in the front parlor and taking swings at each other with their canes.
It is a funny and romantic story, but you have to take it with a grain of salt. There are a lot of things that are silly and improbable, like the "suspense" or the"plot" organized by certain secondary characters... Who are not so subtle when it comes to hint that they are waiting for their own story, but I was nevertheless delighted.
Read it only if you can put up with sweet and (a bit) silly.
June 22, 2011
4 stars.
I much preferred this book over the first in the series - Alex & Sophie's story, As Luck Would Have It.
I felt huge empathy for Mirabelle and particularly appreciated her strength and drive to overcome the dreariness of her family situation. You could see how much she valued her relationship with the Cole's, their inclusion of her and that she didn't take it for granted.
I found Whit's cheekiness charming and the dedication and esteem in which he held his family to be really impressive. I loved his passionate conflicts with Mirabelle because you could tell that they fancied each other deep down.
Good Stuff:
- Mirabelle and the different shades of her character. I loved that she could be strong and determined but also that she was quite vulnerable and unsure of herself at times. Her honesty and lack of dramatics was a really great attribute and it was quite refreshing to see that in a heroine. What you saw was what you got.
- I rather liked that when Whit and Mirabelle stopped fighting that they actually had a lot in common and similar viewpoints.
- The lack of crap and ridiculousness that was rife in the first book. It was nice just to get back to basics.
Bad Stuff:
- I almost felt that Whit and Mirabelle had more passion when they hated each other. Not that I disliked their truce at all but their relationship fizzled out a little bit once they stopped sniping at each other. There didn't seem to be any epic sort of love story happening; it's almost like they only ended up HEA because it just seemed like the thing to do.
- Eppersley and his disgusting band of merry men. Ugh.
- In my opinion the book was a little bit slow moving at times, especially when Whit joined Mirabelle at her uncle's house. I actually nodded off a couple of times - though that probably has more to do with my workload this week, lol.
All in all though, I really enjoyed this book because of Mirabelle and Whit. I felt emotionally invested in them and their story and could hardly wait to see them together in the end.
I much preferred this book over the first in the series - Alex & Sophie's story, As Luck Would Have It.
I felt huge empathy for Mirabelle and particularly appreciated her strength and drive to overcome the dreariness of her family situation. You could see how much she valued her relationship with the Cole's, their inclusion of her and that she didn't take it for granted.
I found Whit's cheekiness charming and the dedication and esteem in which he held his family to be really impressive. I loved his passionate conflicts with Mirabelle because you could tell that they fancied each other deep down.
Good Stuff:
- Mirabelle and the different shades of her character. I loved that she could be strong and determined but also that she was quite vulnerable and unsure of herself at times. Her honesty and lack of dramatics was a really great attribute and it was quite refreshing to see that in a heroine. What you saw was what you got.
- I rather liked that when Whit and Mirabelle stopped fighting that they actually had a lot in common and similar viewpoints.
- The lack of crap and ridiculousness that was rife in the first book. It was nice just to get back to basics.
Bad Stuff:
- I almost felt that Whit and Mirabelle had more passion when they hated each other. Not that I disliked their truce at all but their relationship fizzled out a little bit once they stopped sniping at each other. There didn't seem to be any epic sort of love story happening; it's almost like they only ended up HEA because it just seemed like the thing to do.
- Eppersley and his disgusting band of merry men. Ugh.
- In my opinion the book was a little bit slow moving at times, especially when Whit joined Mirabelle at her uncle's house. I actually nodded off a couple of times - though that probably has more to do with my workload this week, lol.
All in all though, I really enjoyed this book because of Mirabelle and Whit. I felt emotionally invested in them and their story and could hardly wait to see them together in the end.
August 3, 2024
An enemies to lovers romance with an investigation during her evil uncle’s hunting party to determine if he’s a counterfeiter. I liked it but my interest did ween a little in the second half.
Minor spoiler for the end (in vague terms):
I hope it’s not a running theme for this series. I am intrigued by the blossoming romance between Evie and McCallister.
Minor spoiler for the end (in vague terms):
I hope it’s not a running theme for this series. I am intrigued by the blossoming romance between Evie and McCallister.
September 7, 2019
3.5 stars
Two people who have been at odds for years, discover they have more when they call a truce. Enjoyable.
Two people who have been at odds for years, discover they have more when they call a truce. Enjoyable.
December 29, 2016
I enjoyed it as much as the first book. You still have to suspend your disbelief if nothing but for the main reason everyone is brought together.
I was wondering if I could go through a whole book full of insults, but Mirabelle and Whit are asked (forced, manipulated) to be civil to each other. They agree and realize a whole lot more than they expected. They still argue a bit but it becomes almost lovely. There is a darker side of the story, though. None of the Coles knew just how despicable Mirabelle's uncle really is.
Tempting Fate introduces McAlistair, the hero of the next book. Hopefully, that one will be as fun as the first two.
August 9, 2016
I enjoy the hate to love trope as much as the next person and the historical aspect of this was a pleasant departure from the contemporary version of this that I've become accustomed to. However, given that the MCs are like brother and sister and have been raised in be same house, this story is not lent much in terms of the strict propriety and rules that ruled genteel society of the day.
Their interactions were much more casual than what is expected between a man and woman in a Regency story and I found myself disappointed. Indeed half the fun seems to be how the author finds unusual situations in which to force the MCs together that wouldn't normally happen. All in all, this was an enjoyable read. My heart went out to the h and her situation. I am glad the story started when the MCs were about to call a truce and be nicer to each other. I don't think I could have tolerated them being hateful to each other for most of the book.
What I liked:
1) The multiple povs.
2) The engaging writing.
3) No ow/om drama. The H was true to the h and never wavered. That was sweet.
What I didn't like:
1) The h was never able to resist the H. It was annoying. Given that she was very concerned about her reputation, she didn't guard herself very well.
Their interactions were much more casual than what is expected between a man and woman in a Regency story and I found myself disappointed. Indeed half the fun seems to be how the author finds unusual situations in which to force the MCs together that wouldn't normally happen. All in all, this was an enjoyable read. My heart went out to the h and her situation. I am glad the story started when the MCs were about to call a truce and be nicer to each other. I don't think I could have tolerated them being hateful to each other for most of the book.
What I liked:
1) The multiple povs.
2) The engaging writing.
3) No ow/om drama. The H was true to the h and never wavered. That was sweet.
What I didn't like:
1) The h was never able to resist the H. It was annoying. Given that she was very concerned about her reputation, she didn't guard herself very well.
March 22, 2016
3.7
I absolutely loved the rapport between Whit and Mirabelle! They've been enemies since childhood, who were asked to have a truce by Whit's mother - so naturally they realised at the end they've actually loved each other lol
Everything that happened in the book was gradual but not too slow. And some scenes were too cute. The ending with what happened with her uncle I thought was a bit much but overall I really enjoyed this book!
I absolutely loved the rapport between Whit and Mirabelle! They've been enemies since childhood, who were asked to have a truce by Whit's mother - so naturally they realised at the end they've actually loved each other lol
Everything that happened in the book was gradual but not too slow. And some scenes were too cute. The ending with what happened with her uncle I thought was a bit much but overall I really enjoyed this book!
August 6, 2023
3.5 stars
June 23, 2019
The two main characters basically grew up with each other - often trading insults, barbs, and the like. Occasionally one or the other might notice something vaguely attractive about the other, but they tended to shake off these thoughts - up until the start of this book.
Whittaker Cole's mother gets both Mirabelle and Cole, who both respect (and fear) has gotten both to agree to stop fighting, at least in her presence. They agree to do so. Thereafter their conversations become quite stiff and formal as they can't think of much to actually say to each other.
There are some nice humorous moments in the book.
Rating: 3.75
June 22 2019
Whittaker Cole's mother gets both Mirabelle and Cole, who both respect (and fear) has gotten both to agree to stop fighting, at least in her presence. They agree to do so. Thereafter their conversations become quite stiff and formal as they can't think of much to actually say to each other.
There are some nice humorous moments in the book.
"For God's sake, I've seen feral cats less skittish."
"The fact that you're frightening to children and small animals is hardly cause—"
"No harm in it?" Mrs. Jarles very nearly screeched. "We could all be murdered! Murdered in our own beds!"
"Would you prefer the parlor?" Whit inquired with a politely interested tone.
"Very well, I haven't been any more uncomfortable taking your charity than I would be taking anyone else's."
He swore softly. "It's not charity."
"Of course it is. Freely given as you said, but charity all the same. How would you feel in my position?"
"It isn't the same thing."
"Oh? Why not?"
"Because I'm a man."
"And you're allowed a pride I am not?" she asked hotly.
Rating: 3.75
June 22 2019
September 2, 2010
After reading the first book, the tension between Whit and Mirabelle was burning so brightly, I couldn’t wait to start their story. By all means, while I saw Mirabelle a formidable heroine, Whit was not nearly that stunning at first glance. He does get better, but not as an alpha super spy.Whit was more of a nice guy. Nice guys are pretty nice too.
Since childhood, Whit and Mirabelle have found a way to get on each other’s nerves. I think the age difference only made it their early feeling manifest in pseudo-hate, because anything else would be pedophilic. Their animosity drives Whit’s mother to catalyze their obvious attraction, by asking him to mend their relationship so to protect her reputation – if she was to get married. Whit, being the ultimate momma’s boy, immediately tries to change, while realizing that the chit that drove him up the wall, is driving him crazy in a whole new way. Mirabelle realizes her feelings for Whit were actually some love with lots of jealously (ok, that’s what I figured, but she falls for him anyhow). Unfortunately, things aren’t so tidy, when it comes to Mirabelle’s family (aka. Uncle from hell), who decides to sell his inconvenient relation to an asylum. All ends well, with random things happening all around. Like MacAlister. Where did that come from? How old is this man? And I think he’s supposed to be the next hero…
Anyway, Mirabelle was a great heroine who brought a lot to the story. She was very adamant, but in some ways I think this was a defense mechanism, for her attraction toward Whit. Whit was ok. I enjoyed him as a hero, until suddenly became a spy. Why does he need to be a spy? There was no point to that. He was completely ineffective as a spy.
Overall, it was a fun read, with a enemies to lovers theme, but the spy part was a complete fail.
Since childhood, Whit and Mirabelle have found a way to get on each other’s nerves. I think the age difference only made it their early feeling manifest in pseudo-hate, because anything else would be pedophilic. Their animosity drives Whit’s mother to catalyze their obvious attraction, by asking him to mend their relationship so to protect her reputation – if she was to get married. Whit, being the ultimate momma’s boy, immediately tries to change, while realizing that the chit that drove him up the wall, is driving him crazy in a whole new way. Mirabelle realizes her feelings for Whit were actually some love with lots of jealously (ok, that’s what I figured, but she falls for him anyhow). Unfortunately, things aren’t so tidy, when it comes to Mirabelle’s family (aka. Uncle from hell), who decides to sell his inconvenient relation to an asylum. All ends well, with random things happening all around. Like MacAlister. Where did that come from? How old is this man? And I think he’s supposed to be the next hero…
Anyway, Mirabelle was a great heroine who brought a lot to the story. She was very adamant, but in some ways I think this was a defense mechanism, for her attraction toward Whit. Whit was ok. I enjoyed him as a hero, until suddenly became a spy. Why does he need to be a spy? There was no point to that. He was completely ineffective as a spy.
Overall, it was a fun read, with a enemies to lovers theme, but the spy part was a complete fail.
June 28, 2019
Regency England. DNF @66% (jumped ahead & back).
This story felt not ready for prime time.
I was dissatisfied and totally re-wrote this review.
Orphaned 7 yr old Mirabelle "Mira" ran away from her
mean uncle/guardian, a baron. Lady Thurston took in
Mira after Mira's discovery by dtr Kate & her governess.
Kate and cousin Evie became fast friends w/ Mira. While
Kate's brother Whittaker "Whit" & Mira exchanged in-
sults. Before the flashback to 7 YO Mira, it was difficult
to determine: was Mira a permanent resident VS a
current day house party invitee?
17 yrs on. Whit, an earl, did occasional assignments for the
Home Office's William Fletcher. Whit agreed to an under-
cover visit of Mira's uncle. Mira's uncle pressured her twice
yearly to act as hostess for his hunting parties, an excuse
for imbibing to excess. In the past, 2 men argued over
'buying' Mira, then dropped it. The H+h searched uncle's
attic and so on looking for clues.
This couple felt OK together after their agreed truce. But
where was the closeness? the attraction? Didn't feel like
love to me. I enjoyed the revelation that several men acted
protective toward Mira w/o her knowledge.
This story felt not ready for prime time.
I was dissatisfied and totally re-wrote this review.
Orphaned 7 yr old Mirabelle "Mira" ran away from her
mean uncle/guardian, a baron. Lady Thurston took in
Mira after Mira's discovery by dtr Kate & her governess.
Kate and cousin Evie became fast friends w/ Mira. While
Kate's brother Whittaker "Whit" & Mira exchanged in-
sults. Before the flashback to 7 YO Mira, it was difficult
to determine: was Mira a permanent resident VS a
current day house party invitee?
17 yrs on. Whit, an earl, did occasional assignments for the
Home Office's William Fletcher. Whit agreed to an under-
cover visit of Mira's uncle. Mira's uncle pressured her twice
yearly to act as hostess for his hunting parties, an excuse
for imbibing to excess. In the past, 2 men argued over
'buying' Mira, then dropped it. The H+h searched uncle's
attic and so on looking for clues.
This couple felt OK together after their agreed truce. But
where was the closeness? the attraction? Didn't feel like
love to me. I enjoyed the revelation that several men acted
protective toward Mira w/o her knowledge.
April 15, 2020
Friends/enemies to lovers. Enjoyed the arguments between Whit and Mirabelle. The mission seemed a little clunky at times, but I like how they respected each other and really were good friends.
"I've loved you the whole of my life, imp . . . even when I didn't like you." "Of course you did," she said with a sly smile. "It was fated."
"I've loved you the whole of my life, imp . . . even when I didn't like you." "Of course you did," she said with a sly smile. "It was fated."
August 12, 2022
Mirabelle and Whitaker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2023
Cute story. A little wordy. An older title and it shows.
Want to read
May 28, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/28/2019)! 🎁
May 7, 2020
historical romance childhood enemies to lovers! a little more angst or emotional tension would have been nice though
August 14, 2014
Author: Alissa Johnson
First published: 2009
Length: 307 pages, 4904 locations
Setting: England, 1813 (~2 years after Book 1)
Sex: Only the once, right at the end. Reasonably explicit. Short but caring.
Heroine: Orphan who has lived most of her life as a guest of the Coles', avoiding their neighbour and her abusive uncle.
Hero: Earl. Former Spy.
An enjoyable romp with the enemies-to-lovers trope, an abusive uncle and a counterfeiting scheme. An easy read with a nice plot and approachable characters.
A good addition to the series but, without some background on the machinations of William and Lady Thurston, a new reader will be lost. Without understanding why they come across as manipulative and cruel. Especially as far as leaving Mirabelle in an abusive situation. What sort of spies are they?
Providence:
Book 1 As Luck Would Have It - Sophie Everton and Alex, Duke of Rockeforte
Book 2 Tempting Fate- Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston and Miss Mirabelle Browning
Book 3 McAlistair's Fortune - Miss Evie Cole and James McAlistair
Book 4 Destined to Last - Lady Kate Cole and Andrew Hunter
References:
Author's websites: http://www.alissa-johnson.com
(ISBN 9781477806524)
-CR-
First published: 2009
Length: 307 pages, 4904 locations
Setting: England, 1813 (~2 years after Book 1)
Sex: Only the once, right at the end. Reasonably explicit. Short but caring.
Heroine: Orphan who has lived most of her life as a guest of the Coles', avoiding their neighbour and her abusive uncle.
Hero: Earl. Former Spy.
An enjoyable romp with the enemies-to-lovers trope, an abusive uncle and a counterfeiting scheme. An easy read with a nice plot and approachable characters.
A good addition to the series but, without some background on the machinations of William and Lady Thurston, a new reader will be lost. Without understanding why they come across as manipulative and cruel. Especially as far as leaving Mirabelle in an abusive situation. What sort of spies are they?
Providence:
Book 1 As Luck Would Have It - Sophie Everton and Alex, Duke of Rockeforte
Book 2 Tempting Fate- Whittaker Cole, Earl of Thurston and Miss Mirabelle Browning
Book 3 McAlistair's Fortune - Miss Evie Cole and James McAlistair
Book 4 Destined to Last - Lady Kate Cole and Andrew Hunter
References:
Author's websites: http://www.alissa-johnson.com
(ISBN 9781477806524)
-CR-
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