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Lords of London #2
Como Enlouquecer um Marquês
Ela salvou a vida dele, mas pode salvá-lo dele mesmo?
Hunter, Marquês de Aaron, engana a sociedade. Externamente, ele é um cavalheiro de posição, com bons contatos, riqueza e charme. Interiormente, ele é uma bagunça. Seu vício — beber até um estado de estupor quase todos os dias — quase o mata quando ele entra na frente de coche de aluguel. Sua salvadora, a pessoa mais improvável, é a imagem de um anjo, mas com uma língua mais afiada que a bengala-espada dele.
Cecilia Smith não gosta de ociosidade e desperdício. Se ela tivesse nascido homem, ela já estaria trabalhando para o escritório de advocacia do pai. Então, no dia em que ela estava atrasada para uma reunião importante sobre uma de suas muitas instituições de caridade, ela não ficou impressionada ao ter que intervir e salvar um cavalheiro embriagado e patife de ser atropelado.
Quando suas esferas sociais colidem, Hunter fica surpreso e deslumbrado com a bela, e capaz, Srta. Smith. Cecília, por outro lado, fica confusa e nem um pouco receosa de verbalizar suas suposições sobre o Marquês e seus demônios. É impossível determinar se estas duas pessoas que pertencem a mundos tão adversos podem formar um mundo só deles...
Hunter, Marquês de Aaron, engana a sociedade. Externamente, ele é um cavalheiro de posição, com bons contatos, riqueza e charme. Interiormente, ele é uma bagunça. Seu vício — beber até um estado de estupor quase todos os dias — quase o mata quando ele entra na frente de coche de aluguel. Sua salvadora, a pessoa mais improvável, é a imagem de um anjo, mas com uma língua mais afiada que a bengala-espada dele.
Cecilia Smith não gosta de ociosidade e desperdício. Se ela tivesse nascido homem, ela já estaria trabalhando para o escritório de advocacia do pai. Então, no dia em que ela estava atrasada para uma reunião importante sobre uma de suas muitas instituições de caridade, ela não ficou impressionada ao ter que intervir e salvar um cavalheiro embriagado e patife de ser atropelado.
Quando suas esferas sociais colidem, Hunter fica surpreso e deslumbrado com a bela, e capaz, Srta. Smith. Cecília, por outro lado, fica confusa e nem um pouco receosa de verbalizar suas suposições sobre o Marquês e seus demônios. É impossível determinar se estas duas pessoas que pertencem a mundos tão adversos podem formar um mundo só deles...
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2018
1093 people are currently reading
428 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Gill
125 books1,012 followersTamara is an Australian author who grew up in an old mining town in country South Australia, where her love of history was founded. She loves to write romance novels in an array of genres, including regency, medieval, and time travel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 5, 2021
*** 3.5 stars ***
A surprisingly good book.
I was on a 'reading slump' and thought of reading something light and short to regain my interest. This book proved to be a perfect inspiration to go ahead and continue my reading journey!
A surprisingly good book.
I was on a 'reading slump' and thought of reading something light and short to regain my interest. This book proved to be a perfect inspiration to go ahead and continue my reading journey!
July 29, 2018
To Madden a Marquess by Tamara Gill is book Two in the Lords of London series. This is the story of Hunter, Marquess of Aaron and Cecilia Smith. I haven't yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book.
Hunter puts up a good front that he is under control and everything is fine but in truth he is not. Taken to drinking and ending up doing stupid things almost gets him killed but is saved by Cecilia. Cecilia who wishes to help the world but is unable to do everything she wants because she is not a man in stuck with doing what she can. When she happens upon a drunk Hunter about to get run over she goes to save him. Both are so different but it seems fate is setting things up since they keep meeting.
I am a fan of Ms. Gill's writing and this book just reminded me why I love it so. Could not put the book down....loved it!
Hunter puts up a good front that he is under control and everything is fine but in truth he is not. Taken to drinking and ending up doing stupid things almost gets him killed but is saved by Cecilia. Cecilia who wishes to help the world but is unable to do everything she wants because she is not a man in stuck with doing what she can. When she happens upon a drunk Hunter about to get run over she goes to save him. Both are so different but it seems fate is setting things up since they keep meeting.
I am a fan of Ms. Gill's writing and this book just reminded me why I love it so. Could not put the book down....loved it!
February 10, 2020
'She saved his life, but can she save him from himself?
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. Outwardly he’s a gentleman of position, with good contacts, wealth and charm. Inwardly, he’s a mess. His vice—drinking himself into a stupor most days—almost kills him when he steps in front of a hackney cab. His saviour, a most unlikely person, is an angel to gaze at, but with a tongue sharper than his sword cane.
Cecilia Smith dislikes idleness and waste. Had she been born male, she would already be working for her father’s law firm. So, on a day when she was late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, she was not impressed by having to step in and save a foxed gentleman rogue from being run over.
When their social spheres collide, Hunter is both surprised and awed by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia, on the other hand, is left confused and not a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. It is anyone’s guess whether these two people from different worlds can form one of their own…'
______________________________
To Madden a Marquess is the second book in Tamara Gill's Lords of London series. Cecilia is the close friends of Darcy, the main character from the last book. But although the characters from these first two books are connected, it is not necessary to read them in order as this book can serve as a stand-alone.
Cecilia is a strong character, capable and compassionate. She works hard to protect and support those less fortunate. A business woman determined to expand her company, not for profits, but to increase the amount of lives she can help improve. I liked and respected her character, but it is also hard to believe that a woman like her would have existed at this time, been so influential in her charity work, and have moved around so easily among the upper classes.
Hunter is just such a mess. He's an alcoholic, but one of the dangerous ones that you would never know it if you weren't looking for the signs. He can still carry on with his day and his drinks are often disguised into his daily lifestyle in a way that nothing seems out of sorts. But since Cecilia's first encounter with him proved his weakness for drink and she is familiar with the signs from her charity work, he isn't able to hide from her. Even if he is managing to hide from himself.
Hunter was so flawed, but so great. I don't think I've ever read a historical fiction before in which a main character suffers through the pain of withdrawal. I love that Tamara Gill is always able to surprise me in one way or another with each of her books.
I loved that although Cecilia did push Hunter toward keeping away from drink, she left it to him to make to choice for himself if he would change his life or not. Although I must say that ealier on she was cruel with her mocking of his addiction and the fact that he didn't just tell her off and have nothing else to do with her was astounding. The fact that he didn't lash out made me respect his character more.
Her father's reaction to the potential scandal of his daughter and Hunter was understandable, but I was really shocked by his behavior once Cecelia declared her intentions and his handling pf the situation with Mr. White.
To Madden a Marquess was such a lovely addition to this series, I enjoyed it more than the first in the series in fact and will be reading the rest of the series. I recommend this book and the Lords of London series.
_____
I read this book with my Kindle Unlimited membership.
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. Outwardly he’s a gentleman of position, with good contacts, wealth and charm. Inwardly, he’s a mess. His vice—drinking himself into a stupor most days—almost kills him when he steps in front of a hackney cab. His saviour, a most unlikely person, is an angel to gaze at, but with a tongue sharper than his sword cane.
Cecilia Smith dislikes idleness and waste. Had she been born male, she would already be working for her father’s law firm. So, on a day when she was late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, she was not impressed by having to step in and save a foxed gentleman rogue from being run over.
When their social spheres collide, Hunter is both surprised and awed by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia, on the other hand, is left confused and not a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. It is anyone’s guess whether these two people from different worlds can form one of their own…'
______________________________
To Madden a Marquess is the second book in Tamara Gill's Lords of London series. Cecilia is the close friends of Darcy, the main character from the last book. But although the characters from these first two books are connected, it is not necessary to read them in order as this book can serve as a stand-alone.
Cecilia is a strong character, capable and compassionate. She works hard to protect and support those less fortunate. A business woman determined to expand her company, not for profits, but to increase the amount of lives she can help improve. I liked and respected her character, but it is also hard to believe that a woman like her would have existed at this time, been so influential in her charity work, and have moved around so easily among the upper classes.
Hunter is just such a mess. He's an alcoholic, but one of the dangerous ones that you would never know it if you weren't looking for the signs. He can still carry on with his day and his drinks are often disguised into his daily lifestyle in a way that nothing seems out of sorts. But since Cecilia's first encounter with him proved his weakness for drink and she is familiar with the signs from her charity work, he isn't able to hide from her. Even if he is managing to hide from himself.
Hunter was so flawed, but so great. I don't think I've ever read a historical fiction before in which a main character suffers through the pain of withdrawal. I love that Tamara Gill is always able to surprise me in one way or another with each of her books.
I loved that although Cecilia did push Hunter toward keeping away from drink, she left it to him to make to choice for himself if he would change his life or not. Although I must say that ealier on she was cruel with her mocking of his addiction and the fact that he didn't just tell her off and have nothing else to do with her was astounding. The fact that he didn't lash out made me respect his character more.
Her father's reaction to the potential scandal of his daughter and Hunter was understandable, but I was really shocked by his behavior once Cecelia declared her intentions and his handling pf the situation with Mr. White.
To Madden a Marquess was such a lovely addition to this series, I enjoyed it more than the first in the series in fact and will be reading the rest of the series. I recommend this book and the Lords of London series.
_____
I read this book with my Kindle Unlimited membership.
January 11, 2020
I really believe Tamara Gill to be a good author with great ideas for her novels. I do however have some doubts when it comes to developping such ideas, at least in this case.
For instance, I absolutely love that there is an addiction in the picture here; it is something that is not very much taken into account in historical romances, which makes all this very interesting and appealing.
What it wasn't very appealing to me on the other hand, is that Cecilia's behaviour towards Hunter was overly vitriolic; I liked the first banter between them, but from then on I often thought "this sharpness (Cecilia's) is definitely not charming at all"; I mean, if I were Hunter I would have told her to fu** off several times. Ok that I am alcoholic and I probably am not the most pleasant of all when I'm in that state, but I don't know you that well to accept unrequested opinions (that tends to fall into the insult realm) on how terrible and selfish I am as a person. Moreover, I found everything but sensitive the number of times and the ways that Cecilia reminded him (and bear in mind they don't really know each other that well) that he was an alcoholic. We are talking about an addiction here, should be handled more seriously than this.
So, to sum it up, I think the issues with this novel are mainly two. First of all, Cecilia's personality; second, it's too fast paced, to the point that sometimes it felt like I had missed some pages; the development of the protagonists' relationship is sometimes unreal, why would Hunter stop drinking just because a woman who met him just weeks before, asked him to, in exchange for kisses? He has an addiction for God's sake, he is not someone who drinks a bit too much in the weekends. Why would Hunter feel the need to run after Cecilia to humbly give an unrequested explanation on his relationship with another woman just after some weeks of acquaintance with her, who hasn't lost the chance to be sharp and rude towards him and his lifestyle at every turn?
I do have hopes that I will like the next title, again I believe Ms Gill to be a good author, and I will keep reading her novels.
For instance, I absolutely love that there is an addiction in the picture here; it is something that is not very much taken into account in historical romances, which makes all this very interesting and appealing.
What it wasn't very appealing to me on the other hand, is that Cecilia's behaviour towards Hunter was overly vitriolic; I liked the first banter between them, but from then on I often thought "this sharpness (Cecilia's) is definitely not charming at all"; I mean, if I were Hunter I would have told her to fu** off several times. Ok that I am alcoholic and I probably am not the most pleasant of all when I'm in that state, but I don't know you that well to accept unrequested opinions (that tends to fall into the insult realm) on how terrible and selfish I am as a person. Moreover, I found everything but sensitive the number of times and the ways that Cecilia reminded him (and bear in mind they don't really know each other that well) that he was an alcoholic. We are talking about an addiction here, should be handled more seriously than this.
So, to sum it up, I think the issues with this novel are mainly two. First of all, Cecilia's personality; second, it's too fast paced, to the point that sometimes it felt like I had missed some pages; the development of the protagonists' relationship is sometimes unreal, why would Hunter stop drinking just because a woman who met him just weeks before, asked him to, in exchange for kisses? He has an addiction for God's sake, he is not someone who drinks a bit too much in the weekends. Why would Hunter feel the need to run after Cecilia to humbly give an unrequested explanation on his relationship with another woman just after some weeks of acquaintance with her, who hasn't lost the chance to be sharp and rude towards him and his lifestyle at every turn?
I do have hopes that I will like the next title, again I believe Ms Gill to be a good author, and I will keep reading her novels.
July 13, 2018
By Tamara Gill
(Lords of London, #2)
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. He puts on a good show acting like the perfect gentleman, he has good contacts, wealth, and oozes charm when he wants to however he is definitely not what people think he is because honestly he's a total mess. Why? Well because of his drinking problem. Most days he drinks himself into a stupor. One day it almost kills him when he steps out in front of a hackney cab, but he is saved by a most unlikely person, she is an angel to look at, but has a tongue sharper than any sword you can imagine.
Cecilia Smith doesn't like to be idle or waste time. If she had been born a male she would be working at her father's law firm by now. So on a day that she's late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, shes not happy by having to step in and save a drunk gentleman from being run over by a hackney.
They are on separate social spheres so when they collide, Hunter is quite surprised by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia is left confused and more then a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. After all every time she sets eyes on the man he is well into his cups.
Now it's anyone's guess what will happen next. Will Cecilia be able to help Hunter with his drinking problem? Will Hunter admit to Cecilia that he does have a problem and let her help or will he go on living a drunken almost meaningless existence? Can these two people get over the fact that they are from different circles and possibly forge a bond?
Tamara Gill has a great gift for writing. Her stories come to life when you read them. This book was incredible because Ms. Gill addressed something that you very rarely see in a historical romance and that would be alcoholism. It is a disease and she has showed us that it is something a person will always battle. Once I started reading this book I didn't want to put it down. I easily give this book five stars and would give it more if I could. I would also recommend it to readers everywhere.
(Lords of London, #2)
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. He puts on a good show acting like the perfect gentleman, he has good contacts, wealth, and oozes charm when he wants to however he is definitely not what people think he is because honestly he's a total mess. Why? Well because of his drinking problem. Most days he drinks himself into a stupor. One day it almost kills him when he steps out in front of a hackney cab, but he is saved by a most unlikely person, she is an angel to look at, but has a tongue sharper than any sword you can imagine.
Cecilia Smith doesn't like to be idle or waste time. If she had been born a male she would be working at her father's law firm by now. So on a day that she's late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, shes not happy by having to step in and save a drunk gentleman from being run over by a hackney.
They are on separate social spheres so when they collide, Hunter is quite surprised by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia is left confused and more then a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. After all every time she sets eyes on the man he is well into his cups.
Now it's anyone's guess what will happen next. Will Cecilia be able to help Hunter with his drinking problem? Will Hunter admit to Cecilia that he does have a problem and let her help or will he go on living a drunken almost meaningless existence? Can these two people get over the fact that they are from different circles and possibly forge a bond?
Tamara Gill has a great gift for writing. Her stories come to life when you read them. This book was incredible because Ms. Gill addressed something that you very rarely see in a historical romance and that would be alcoholism. It is a disease and she has showed us that it is something a person will always battle. Once I started reading this book I didn't want to put it down. I easily give this book five stars and would give it more if I could. I would also recommend it to readers everywhere.
July 20, 2018
I have to admit, I almost tossed the book at the half way mark. I couldn't connect with a woman who recognized and hated the alcoholic life that Hunter was having. She even remarked several times how he reeked of spirits. And yet, she still allowed him to kiss her because he was so handsome. All Hunter could think about was making her his new mistress and his next drink, sometimes 2 drinks at a time. I get that authors put real life into books and alcoholism was certainly a problem, I just don't like 1/2 a book dedicated to showing me one. After the 2nd half, when Cecilia makes a bargain with Hunter to get him to stop drinking, all he still thinking about is making her his mistress and nothing else. I did like that she already had a plan for what she would do without the support of her family and was ready to put it into action instead of being "oh poor me, whatever shall I do". For me, not much was believable about the characters and their attraction to each other, sadly. I've liked other books by this author, just not this one very much. I do like that it brings to light situations that not everyone will write about, I just prefer not to read them in my fiction. Thank you for the ARC.
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March 29, 2020DNF at 30%
After first book of this series, I told myself that I'd give it another go. But I really can't. I VERY RARELY (almost never) dnf books, especially series, but in this instance...I really can't.
Characters and romance in this book aren't enough to get me through it and help me put up with what I can only suspect is unedited draft version with no proofreading whatsoever.
After first book of this series, I told myself that I'd give it another go. But I really can't. I VERY RARELY (almost never) dnf books, especially series, but in this instance...I really can't.
Characters and romance in this book aren't enough to get me through it and help me put up with what I can only suspect is unedited draft version with no proofreading whatsoever.
February 11, 2023
Tropes:
~class difference
~enemies to lovers
~rake hero
~mental health rep (hero struggles with alcoholism)
I really enjoyed this one! It had quite a bit of character depth for a novella, and I’m definitely curious to continue on with the series.
~class difference
~enemies to lovers
~rake hero
~mental health rep (hero struggles with alcoholism)
I really enjoyed this one! It had quite a bit of character depth for a novella, and I’m definitely curious to continue on with the series.
July 25, 2018
I enjoyed the story. Our hero, Hunter, Marquess of Aaron is a drunkard. He is almost killed as he staggers out into the road and oncoming traffic. Our heroine, Cecilia Smith, saves him. From there we have our journey to HEA. It certainly is a ride worth being on. I definitely recommend this book. I received an ARC and have voluntarily reviewed the book.
July 23, 2018
Enjoyed Cecelia and Hunter's love!
March 15, 2019
After reading the latest release by Mrs Gill, I remembered I had this one in my kindle so I decided to give it a try.
Cecilia is such a strong character I even wondered if she could have existed, past societies were not fair to women, and worst when they were courageous, smart and feisty.
She lets nothing crush her, she goes where she wants and her father might have designs for her future, if they are not she wishes too, she won’t comply.
Hunter has lost himself among the London ton distractions, so much, he can’t function without being imbibed, so when Cecilia rubs his face in it, he argues with her, unable to see the true in her words even if they hurt.
She soon becomes a challenge for him, so when she defies him to stay clean to be able to kiss, he never expected it will be so much an issue, a task which bring pain to get to it.
And while he is on his way to rehabilitation, Cecilia must face her life going the wrong way and having to make harsh decisions.
It was a fast paced and very entertaining read, Even if I liked to see Hunter apologizes, I would have loved some more groveling.
A 5 stars read which deals with substance abuse problems.
Cecilia is such a strong character I even wondered if she could have existed, past societies were not fair to women, and worst when they were courageous, smart and feisty.
She lets nothing crush her, she goes where she wants and her father might have designs for her future, if they are not she wishes too, she won’t comply.
Hunter has lost himself among the London ton distractions, so much, he can’t function without being imbibed, so when Cecilia rubs his face in it, he argues with her, unable to see the true in her words even if they hurt.
She soon becomes a challenge for him, so when she defies him to stay clean to be able to kiss, he never expected it will be so much an issue, a task which bring pain to get to it.
And while he is on his way to rehabilitation, Cecilia must face her life going the wrong way and having to make harsh decisions.
It was a fast paced and very entertaining read, Even if I liked to see Hunter apologizes, I would have loved some more groveling.
A 5 stars read which deals with substance abuse problems.
August 14, 2018
Charming story of Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, a man lost in a world of self-gratification and oblivious to the struggles of the world around him. But once he meets Cecilia Smith, he realizes he can be and do so much more with his life. Is his desire for Cecilia enough for him to overcome his demons and be the man he so wants to be for her?
Good portrayal of the differences in the social classes and of the struggle of alcoholism. Great plot but the story felt a little rushed to me. For me, Hunter didn’t redeem himself until the last couple of chapters. I didn’t understand Cecilia’s attraction to him in the beginning other than the physical. I think this plot would have been better suited for a story twice its length to really appreciate the struggle Hunter faced and the building of Cecilia and Hunter’s relationship. I’ve read several books by this author and will continue to do so. I love her writing style and creative plots. This particular book for me just moved too fast.
Good portrayal of the differences in the social classes and of the struggle of alcoholism. Great plot but the story felt a little rushed to me. For me, Hunter didn’t redeem himself until the last couple of chapters. I didn’t understand Cecilia’s attraction to him in the beginning other than the physical. I think this plot would have been better suited for a story twice its length to really appreciate the struggle Hunter faced and the building of Cecilia and Hunter’s relationship. I’ve read several books by this author and will continue to do so. I love her writing style and creative plots. This particular book for me just moved too fast.
March 8, 2020
The daughter of an attorney, Cecilia Smith has no aspirations of being a lady. Her sole aim in life is to provide a safe place for the orphans of the poorer districts of London, where they can experience warmth, enough food to fill their bellies and an education to give them a better start in life. Observing the antics of the drunken Marquess of Aaron reaffirms her belief that members of the ton are selfish and self-absorbed. But when that same man staggers in front of a hackney cab, Cecilia does what any self-respecting person would do, she charges out in front of the hack and pushes Hunter out of the way. When they meet again a few days later under surprising circumstances, Cecilia is put out by the arrogant man's attitude, but as she keeps meeting up with him, she begins to realise that he has deeper issues and genuinely needs her help. Unfortunately, not everyone is happy about her new-found friends and when her father begins to make demands that she doesn't agree with, Cecilia has a choice to make. If drunkenness were not bad enough, Hunter compounds his sins and insults Cecilia in the worst possible way. However, when he recognises all he may lose, he wonders whether he will have the strength to make the changes necessary to alter his course in life. I always enjoy reading books by experienced writers, as the plot doesn't drag, there are no long-winded internal dialogues and the story moves at a pace that keeps the reader's interest. This novel is also well written, entertaining and comes to a happy conclusion.
July 19, 2018
(Happy Sigh) I really, really enjoyed reading this book. It was serious and witty at the same time. The story touched on many social societal topics that need to be addressed. Whether 100 years ago or today, these issues are still present and universal. Our heroine, Miss Cecilia Smith, is the daughter of a well-established lawyer. She is three and twenty, considered a spinster and is a bluestocking. She has strong beliefs and a strong tongue to match. She never fears to speak her mind in a way that is direct and without guile. Her life is dedicated to charities that help the orphaned children of London find a home in the orphanages she has helped establish and run. The school, which is part of the orphanage, provides the children with education so they can be gainfully employed one day. She has one small charity that is dedicated to the parents of the children in need of assistance. Many of these parents either have drinking problems or medicinal addictions. They are cared for and attended to. I quote from the book because it says it better than I ever could. "If she managed to be instrumental in making just one of the orphaned children of London have a good stable job that enabled them to live a full and happy life, then her work at the charity was worth it. It was the best day in the world when children who’d arrived, sick and poor left and became house and ladies’ maids, cooks even, if their inclination leaned them in that direction. The boys becoming footmen, stable hands and those who were mathematically inclined, stewards even. If one wanted to change, one had to work toward the goal and not believe everything would just fall in your lap." This is what she lived for. She was a member of the London Relief Society. These women all contributed in one way or another to all these charities. One day on her way to a meeting of the relief society she came across the very handsome, very rakish Marquess of Aaron. She was walking down the street when she noticed him stumbling along. Then all of a sudden, the Marquess thought to walk out in the middle of the road and was about to be hit by a cab. What else was she to do but to save him from being run over. Even in his well-cut fancy clothes he reeked of alcohol and sweat. She was a spitfire admonishing the Marquess that it was too early in the day to be foxed. They bantered back and forth, she gave as good as she got. As she walked away from the encounter Hunter, the Marquess was intrigued, impressed and was attracted to her. Although they ran in different societies they probably would never meet again. But what she had said to him stayed on his mind. Cecilia finally made it to her meeting and advised the group that there was a persistent need in a part of London that greatly needed their services. She has found an abandoned building, in need of repairs but the size and location was perfect for a new endeavor. After some discussion they all agreed to put forth an offer to the owner of the building. Cecilia advised the group that her father would assist in finding out who the owner was and sent out the proposal. It turns out that Hunter owns the building. At a meeting Hunter told Cecilia that he would not sell. She became incessed and reminded him she saved his life. In return he should sell to her. Now begins the battle of the wills. Cecilia comes up with ingenious way to annoy Hunter in order to sway him to sell. Cecilia thought Hunter was the most vexing man she ever met. Hunter felt the same way about Cecilia. However, their attraction to each other grew. When Hunter wants a kiss from Cecilia she tells him he can have one if he does not drink any alcohol at any event up until the time he sees her again. He agrees. When he stops drinking he goes into withdrawals. He won't he let his closest friends, the Duke and Duchess of Athelby, help him. He only wants Cecilia. The Duchess goes and retrieves Cecilia. Cecilia must protect her reputation and hide the fact that she is going to help the Marquess. She leaves a note for her father that she going to spend a few days at one of the orphanages. Cecilia explains to the Duke and Duchess she has seen this reaction before with the parents at her charity who leave drinking and drugs. She informs them that it will be a difficult time for the Marquess but he will recover. He should be find in about a month. When Cecilia returns home she is met by an angry father and an employee of his a Mr. White. He found out where she really was and said he had had enough of her disobedience. He has contracted with Mr. White to marry her. Cecilia cannot believe her father would coheres her into marriage to a slimy man that she deplores. He threatens to pull all his funding for her charities if she does not comply. She leaves his office without saying a word. After crying in her room she comes up with a desperate solution. It would cause her to socially lower her status. But this is the price she will pay to continue working with her charities and avoid marrying Mr. White. When Hunter found out he was quite upset. He owed his life to Lia as he called her. She brought him out of a stupor of alcohol that has been with him for a very long time. He feels better, thinks clearer and sees how self centered he had been. Lia makes him want to be a better man. When Hunter finds out that the first bann has been read for the engagement of Mr. White and Cecilia, he his hurt. He never gives Cecilia a chance to explain her new situation. Hunter puts her down and insults her. Her heart is broken. Will Hunter ever admit that he is in love with his Lia? Will Cecilia succumb to her father's demand and marry Mr. White? Will Mr. White expose Cecilia for attending the Marquess when he was sick without a chaperone? What of Cecilia's parents, will they disown her if she walks away? Will Cecilia ever get over her love for the Marquess? Will Hunter every forgive himself for the way he treated Cecilia when he last saw her? Will Hunter still try to make Cecilia his mistress? Will Cecilia and Hunter ever get together? This is such a good book. I highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2018
Hunter and Cecilia meet when she saves him from killing himself stumbling into an oncoming carriage. He is a selfish drunk who only thinks of his own pleasure. They further fight when he refuses to sell her the run down building he owns that she wants for her charity. She helps him overcome his alcohol addiction and to see that there are those less fortunate than him that he can help. They are attracted to each other, but he can’t see past their social differences and makes the mistake of offering her a position as his mistress. Cecilia is the daughter of a lawyer and has her own prejudices and misconceptions against the social elite that she must overcome. Added to that her father is pressuring her to marry his slimy business partner to keep the business in the family. Will they both overcome their differences and her family’s objections and find a way to be together? Sexy romance with plenty of humor and drama.
August 1, 2018
What happens when a working class Bluestocking and a rake on the way to destroying himself tangle? One heck of a great novella! Saving Hunter, the Marquess of Aaron from getting run over by a hack due to his inebriated state, Cecilia got little thanks! But as they run into each other the next day, fate seems to have stepped in. She wants to buy a building for an orphanage and school that he owns. He is determine not to sale it. Full of witty dialogue and strong characters I had to read through this in one sitting. Just could not stop until I finished. But the question is can these two people from different classes ever be happy?
This story was really very touching and emotional. On the outside Hunter was just a rogue but due to his alcoholism, the good was hidden. Take this wonderful journey of redemption and love that will fill your heart with joy. Cannot wait for more of this series.
This story was really very touching and emotional. On the outside Hunter was just a rogue but due to his alcoholism, the good was hidden. Take this wonderful journey of redemption and love that will fill your heart with joy. Cannot wait for more of this series.
August 2, 2018
Saving The Drunken🍸🍷 Marquess
London, 1821
When Miss Cecilia Smith💃💋, saves Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸, the drunken Marquess of Aaron, from being run over by a passing carriage, she didn't realize their chance meeting would completely change both their lives.
Cecilia's father is a successful lawyer, but he wants her to marry his employee, Mr White👹, because at that time in history, only a male was thought proper to run and own a business. Cecilia💋💃 won't touch Mr White with a ten foot pole, but she cannot dissuade her father from his plan.
Cecilia💃💋 doesn't want to marry at all. She runs three orphanages, with her benefactor, Darcy, a Duchess. They are looking at another derelict building to buy and renovate to house another orphanage.
Lo and behold! The property she wants is owned by Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸, the Marquess! He refuses to sell. He wants to turn it into a gentleman's club for wealthy businessmen, like her father.
So, Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸 is back in her life, and still a drunken, womanizing, and gambling sot most of the time. He is tall, handsome, and charming, though, and Cecilia💃💋 begins a love hate relationship with him. Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸 thinks she will make him a wonderful, smart, and fiesty mistress, because the noble class don't marry commoners! He is really hung up on her.
Yet he is still drinking to excess constantly! And They are still arguing about the property she wants. And Cecilia's father still wants her to marry the boor, Mr White!
ARC Received from IF.
The book is currently $.99 on Amazon.
This is an extremely well written book about the Regency time period, because it deals with multiple types of society that existed then, very poor orphans that were either beggars or sent to work as child labor in workhouses. Then there is the wealthy middle class who own businesses, and finally the peerage, most of whom spend a lot of time in idle personal pursuits.
London, 1821
When Miss Cecilia Smith💃💋, saves Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸, the drunken Marquess of Aaron, from being run over by a passing carriage, she didn't realize their chance meeting would completely change both their lives.
Cecilia's father is a successful lawyer, but he wants her to marry his employee, Mr White👹, because at that time in history, only a male was thought proper to run and own a business. Cecilia💋💃 won't touch Mr White with a ten foot pole, but she cannot dissuade her father from his plan.
Cecilia💃💋 doesn't want to marry at all. She runs three orphanages, with her benefactor, Darcy, a Duchess. They are looking at another derelict building to buy and renovate to house another orphanage.
Lo and behold! The property she wants is owned by Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸, the Marquess! He refuses to sell. He wants to turn it into a gentleman's club for wealthy businessmen, like her father.
So, Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸 is back in her life, and still a drunken, womanizing, and gambling sot most of the time. He is tall, handsome, and charming, though, and Cecilia💃💋 begins a love hate relationship with him. Hunter🐺🍆🌋🍸 thinks she will make him a wonderful, smart, and fiesty mistress, because the noble class don't marry commoners! He is really hung up on her.
Yet he is still drinking to excess constantly! And They are still arguing about the property she wants. And Cecilia's father still wants her to marry the boor, Mr White!
ARC Received from IF.
The book is currently $.99 on Amazon.
This is an extremely well written book about the Regency time period, because it deals with multiple types of society that existed then, very poor orphans that were either beggars or sent to work as child labor in workhouses. Then there is the wealthy middle class who own businesses, and finally the peerage, most of whom spend a lot of time in idle personal pursuits.
March 20, 2019
To Madden A Marquess is an outstanding historical romance by Tamara Gill. Ms. Gill has given readers a book that is well-written and loaded it with phenomenal characters. Cecilia is the daughter of a lawyer on her way to a charity meeting when she rescues Hunter. Hunter is an alcoholic. Cecilia's father is pressuring her to marry the lawyer that works for him. Hunter and Cecilia's story is loaded with drama, humor, and spice. This is a fairly quick read, perfect for those with limited reading time. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Tamara Gill in the future. To Madden A Marquess is book 2 of the Lords of London Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
July 14, 2018
To Madden A Marquess by Tamara Gill is book two in the Lords of London series. It can truly be read as a stand alone book, but book one is also good. So far this is my favorite story by Ms. Gill. Cecilia Smith is the daughter of an attorney in Cheapside. When she miraculously saves the life of the Marquess of Aaron, her life is changed forever. Gill does a fabulous job of developing her characters and keeping the story an absolute page turner. I couldn’t put it down. I am looking forward to more from this author.
July 28, 2018
This is a very emotional love story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters are very real and tug at your heart. I absolutely loved their verbal sparring. And the true account of alcoholism was superbly written. This is now my favorite book by Tamara Gill. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a Regency romance that deals with issues that were as real then as they are in today's world.
December 22, 2021
Paperback
Celia and Hunter
I really didn't care for a lot of the characters
Celia and Hunter
I really didn't care for a lot of the characters
December 22, 2018
Forget that she's a snob. Forget that he's an alcoholic who was apparently cured for life after being babysat for a month. Forget that her "loving" father is trying to force her to marry an arsehole who only wants to inherit a law firm he doesn't deserve.
What really bugged me was the comma abuse. Gods, there were commas EVERYWHERE, and when you needed one, it wasn't to be found.
Thin plot, awful writing, no apparent editor, and I'm gobsmacked at all the four- and five-star ratings. Are standards really so low that a bad sex scene or two compensates for everything else? *sigh*
What really bugged me was the comma abuse. Gods, there were commas EVERYWHERE, and when you needed one, it wasn't to be found.
Thin plot, awful writing, no apparent editor, and I'm gobsmacked at all the four- and five-star ratings. Are standards really so low that a bad sex scene or two compensates for everything else? *sigh*
March 14, 2020
3 Stars
March 11, 2022
To Madden a Marquess, Book 2 of the Lords of London series, was about Lord Hunter, the Marquess of Aaron, and Miss Cecilia Smith, daughter of Mr. Smith, attorney.
Once again, the author failed to provide a surname for her main male character, which diminished the man as it was difficult to see him as a "real" person...since real men have surnames.
Hunter grew up with parents, who had a love-hate relationship, were known to argue in public, and created a scene wherever they went. Hunter grew up to be similar in that he stayed drunk more often than sober, cared only for what gained him popularity with the Ton and women in particular. He seemed oblivious to what went on around him...and cared even less.
Cecilia supported multiple orphanages and schools for the less fortunate children in and around London...mainly around Cheapside...and even had an orphanage in the country. The charity she worked with was hoping to purchase an older building that they could renovate and turn into another orphanage, but they had to convince the owner to sell it to them. As she was on her way to a meeting with said charity, Cecilia noticed a man step into the street just as a carriage came barreling towards him. Rushing to ensure he did not get hit, the man did not seem to appreciate the action. When she realized the man was fallen-down drunk, she was disgusted...especially after he introduced himself as "the Marquess of Aaron. Hunter to my friends. Hunt for those of even closer acquaintance". It wasn't until a day or two later that she realized...Hunter was the owner of the building her charity needed to purchase. And he refused to sell it to them, for he was determined to open a gentlemen's club in said building.
The more the two encountered each other, the more he noticed that Cecilia had a great dislike for him and his way of living...something that was starting to bother him, for he didn't think he was a bad person, except all of a sudden he was beginning to not like what he saw when he paused to take stock of how he had been living. It made him very uncomfortable.
There was so much angst, drama, pain, betrayal, anger, and righteous indignation in this story it took my breath away. Cecilia was a very strong character, with a backbone to prove it. She was faced with so much pressure from all sides it was amazing to watch her stand firm in her beliefs and overcome one bleak situation after another. Hunter, on the other hand, was the typical aristocrat, constantly in his cups to his detriment, not caring about whom or what he stepped on to get to his next big win. It was interesting to watch how Cecilia helped him open his eyes to what he was doing, not only to those around him, but to himself as well.
While there was chemistry between the two main characters, and the passion was hot, it made little sense at how fast it changed. With all the animosity between them from their very first meeting, the romance sort of came out of left field and took them...and the reader...by surprise. It wasn't a slow change. It was them being angry with each other one minute, then all over each other the very next minute. While it was a decent book, it did not merit a five-star rating. It was just a tad on the unrealistic side, even for a romance novel.
Once again, the author failed to provide a surname for her main male character, which diminished the man as it was difficult to see him as a "real" person...since real men have surnames.
Hunter grew up with parents, who had a love-hate relationship, were known to argue in public, and created a scene wherever they went. Hunter grew up to be similar in that he stayed drunk more often than sober, cared only for what gained him popularity with the Ton and women in particular. He seemed oblivious to what went on around him...and cared even less.
Cecilia supported multiple orphanages and schools for the less fortunate children in and around London...mainly around Cheapside...and even had an orphanage in the country. The charity she worked with was hoping to purchase an older building that they could renovate and turn into another orphanage, but they had to convince the owner to sell it to them. As she was on her way to a meeting with said charity, Cecilia noticed a man step into the street just as a carriage came barreling towards him. Rushing to ensure he did not get hit, the man did not seem to appreciate the action. When she realized the man was fallen-down drunk, she was disgusted...especially after he introduced himself as "the Marquess of Aaron. Hunter to my friends. Hunt for those of even closer acquaintance". It wasn't until a day or two later that she realized...Hunter was the owner of the building her charity needed to purchase. And he refused to sell it to them, for he was determined to open a gentlemen's club in said building.
The more the two encountered each other, the more he noticed that Cecilia had a great dislike for him and his way of living...something that was starting to bother him, for he didn't think he was a bad person, except all of a sudden he was beginning to not like what he saw when he paused to take stock of how he had been living. It made him very uncomfortable.
There was so much angst, drama, pain, betrayal, anger, and righteous indignation in this story it took my breath away. Cecilia was a very strong character, with a backbone to prove it. She was faced with so much pressure from all sides it was amazing to watch her stand firm in her beliefs and overcome one bleak situation after another. Hunter, on the other hand, was the typical aristocrat, constantly in his cups to his detriment, not caring about whom or what he stepped on to get to his next big win. It was interesting to watch how Cecilia helped him open his eyes to what he was doing, not only to those around him, but to himself as well.
While there was chemistry between the two main characters, and the passion was hot, it made little sense at how fast it changed. With all the animosity between them from their very first meeting, the romance sort of came out of left field and took them...and the reader...by surprise. It wasn't a slow change. It was them being angry with each other one minute, then all over each other the very next minute. While it was a decent book, it did not merit a five-star rating. It was just a tad on the unrealistic side, even for a romance novel.
June 28, 2022
2 1/2 stars. Good ideas let down by poor execution and lack of editing.
I've read a couple books by this author before but wasn't crazy about them. However, I was drawn to the premise here. I appreciate the fact that the author tried to tackle the issue of alcoholism in a Regency romance and I also liked that the main characters' enmity was based on class/social divisions, a more interesting topic than in some enemies-to-lovers storylines. However, there are stumbling blocks to this being a satisfying read. Namely:
*Lack of character development and research. When two people banter, what they're saying to each other communicates to the reader who they really are. Unfortunately, Cecelia is unpleasant and immature at the worst possible times in the plot. Yes, Hunter is an alcoholic, but the derisive way she addresses the issue is inappropriate and ineffective. Even in the 1800's, some people believed that alcoholism was a disease, not a moral failing, and instead of judging Hunter continuously why not show the sympathetic side of her character and encourage him to get into the hands-on aspect of her charity from the start. Also, couldn't Cecelia have introduced him to a treatment group through her charity connections? Although this is fiction, the topic of alcoholism needs to be handled with more care and insight into how it was treated during this time period.
*Unrealistic scenes. I don't even want to go into the way Cecelia magically helps Hunter sober up. The scenario of Cecelia nearly being raped--right before a business meeting--by a partner in her father's business, would never have happened unless the man wanted to destroy both his and Cecelia's reputations. Then Cecelia gets hot and bothered by Hunter on the way home in his carriage. SOO tired of books where women undergo traumatic situations but they're ready to have sex with the hero seconds later. Finally, the pushy dad. I've really had it with dads in these books who are supposedly smart and kind forcing their daughters to marry odious men, especially men who have tried to rape their daughters. Mr. White is so slimy the dad would have to be completely idiotic to want him to take over his legal firm.
I have to mention that editing errors continue to be an issue for this author. I don't understand why writers without editors don't have family members, friends, or members of their writing groups look through their books carefully ahead of time? Or at least writers should practice reading their sentences to themselves. There are many misplaced commas, misplaced modifiers, and sentences that simply go on too long. Also some misused words (for example, "digress" instead of "disagree").
I hate to leave a negative review but, after a decent start, this book just fell apart for me. Great premise, needs work.
I've read a couple books by this author before but wasn't crazy about them. However, I was drawn to the premise here. I appreciate the fact that the author tried to tackle the issue of alcoholism in a Regency romance and I also liked that the main characters' enmity was based on class/social divisions, a more interesting topic than in some enemies-to-lovers storylines. However, there are stumbling blocks to this being a satisfying read. Namely:
*Lack of character development and research. When two people banter, what they're saying to each other communicates to the reader who they really are. Unfortunately, Cecelia is unpleasant and immature at the worst possible times in the plot. Yes, Hunter is an alcoholic, but the derisive way she addresses the issue is inappropriate and ineffective. Even in the 1800's, some people believed that alcoholism was a disease, not a moral failing, and instead of judging Hunter continuously why not show the sympathetic side of her character and encourage him to get into the hands-on aspect of her charity from the start. Also, couldn't Cecelia have introduced him to a treatment group through her charity connections? Although this is fiction, the topic of alcoholism needs to be handled with more care and insight into how it was treated during this time period.
*Unrealistic scenes. I don't even want to go into the way Cecelia magically helps Hunter sober up. The scenario of Cecelia nearly being raped--right before a business meeting--by a partner in her father's business, would never have happened unless the man wanted to destroy both his and Cecelia's reputations. Then Cecelia gets hot and bothered by Hunter on the way home in his carriage. SOO tired of books where women undergo traumatic situations but they're ready to have sex with the hero seconds later. Finally, the pushy dad. I've really had it with dads in these books who are supposedly smart and kind forcing their daughters to marry odious men, especially men who have tried to rape their daughters. Mr. White is so slimy the dad would have to be completely idiotic to want him to take over his legal firm.
I have to mention that editing errors continue to be an issue for this author. I don't understand why writers without editors don't have family members, friends, or members of their writing groups look through their books carefully ahead of time? Or at least writers should practice reading their sentences to themselves. There are many misplaced commas, misplaced modifiers, and sentences that simply go on too long. Also some misused words (for example, "digress" instead of "disagree").
I hate to leave a negative review but, after a decent start, this book just fell apart for me. Great premise, needs work.
July 23, 2018
Publisher's Description:
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. Outwardly he’s a gentleman of position, with good contacts, wealth and charm. Inwardly, he’s a mess. His vice—drinking himself into a stupor most days—almost kills him when he steps in front of a hackney cab. His saviour, a most unlikely person, is an angel to gaze at, but with a tongue sharper than his sword cane.
Cecilia Smith dislikes idleness and waste. Had she been born male, she would already be working for her father’s law firm. So, on a day when she was late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, she was not impressed by having to step in and save a foxed gentleman rogue from being run over.
When their social spheres collide, Hunter is both surprised and awed by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia, on the other hand, is left confused and not a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. It is anyone’s guess whether these two people from different worlds can form one of their own…
My Thoughts:
This short read by Tamara Gill is very well written. It touches on the misunderstood illness of alcoholism which was pretty much thought in the regency era to be a problem not of the aristocracy but only the destitute.
It seems though that this demon can affect anyone and has in fact shown it's ugly head in Hunter.
Cecilia saved Hunter's life when she saved him from being run down by a carriage. Hunter on the other hand thinks he will never lay eyes on the beauty again so is totally unprepared when she makes an appearance at a ball he is attending. They are after all from two totally different social circles and all Hunter can think of is making her his next mistress.
When their totally different worlds collide they find themselves attracted to one another, but Hunter has a problem and Cecilia means to fix it or never lay eyes on him again. He usually reeks of spirits and either he changes his ways or leaves her alone.
I loved this short regency tale and as always look forward to more by this author.
I gave this novella 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.5 of 5.0 flames. This book does contain a small amount of intimate scenes.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the author to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Hunter, Marquess of Aaron, has the ton fooled. Outwardly he’s a gentleman of position, with good contacts, wealth and charm. Inwardly, he’s a mess. His vice—drinking himself into a stupor most days—almost kills him when he steps in front of a hackney cab. His saviour, a most unlikely person, is an angel to gaze at, but with a tongue sharper than his sword cane.
Cecilia Smith dislikes idleness and waste. Had she been born male, she would already be working for her father’s law firm. So, on a day when she was late for an important meeting at one of her many charities, she was not impressed by having to step in and save a foxed gentleman rogue from being run over.
When their social spheres collide, Hunter is both surprised and awed by the capable, beautiful Miss Smith. Cecilia, on the other hand, is left confused and not a little worried by her assumptions about the Marquess and his demons. It is anyone’s guess whether these two people from different worlds can form one of their own…
My Thoughts:
This short read by Tamara Gill is very well written. It touches on the misunderstood illness of alcoholism which was pretty much thought in the regency era to be a problem not of the aristocracy but only the destitute.
It seems though that this demon can affect anyone and has in fact shown it's ugly head in Hunter.
Cecilia saved Hunter's life when she saved him from being run down by a carriage. Hunter on the other hand thinks he will never lay eyes on the beauty again so is totally unprepared when she makes an appearance at a ball he is attending. They are after all from two totally different social circles and all Hunter can think of is making her his next mistress.
When their totally different worlds collide they find themselves attracted to one another, but Hunter has a problem and Cecilia means to fix it or never lay eyes on him again. He usually reeks of spirits and either he changes his ways or leaves her alone.
I loved this short regency tale and as always look forward to more by this author.
I gave this novella 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.5 of 5.0 flames. This book does contain a small amount of intimate scenes.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the author to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
August 10, 2018
Cecilia Smith trying to hail a hackney cab to attend a charity meeting notices a handsome drunk gentleman stumble toward a street lamp. Suddenly a hackney cab barrels down the road and shows no signs of slowing down. Cecilia sees that the gentleman is also walking across the busy street. Cecilia saves the guy’s life instead. The gentleman Cecilia saves is Hunter the Marquess of Aaron. Cecilia thinks this is the end of their association and the fact that she did a good turn by saving his life but finds out that Hunter finds a way to interrupt her life. Hunter has purchased a building that Cecilia wants to buy for an orphanage but Hunter wants to turn it into a gentlemen’s club. Cecilia is appalled but also attracted to Hunter still she will fight fire with fire. Hunter refuses to back down but still wants Cecilia to be his.
Ms. Tamara Gill writes a good story and this story even with its length is engaging. There is a lot to like, a quick romantic story with a strong feisty heroine that you can’t help but love. Sure the book is the second in the series but stands alone and maintains to be a nice easy read too. The cover is also just beautiful even though I try not to judge a book by the cover this is Cecilia personified, yes just her softer side but still I love it. Hunter is not someone that is easy to like. He spends a lot of the story drunk and when he decides to sober up I can’t help but feel scared for his welfare. In my medical mind I seriously wanted to make him throw all that alcohol up, hydrate him, and make him sleep for a very long while. Even with him sober all his ideas about making Cecilia his mistress made me mad. He wasn’t winning me over even when he shows his affection and feelings towards her he still manages to mess things up. I did want Cecilia to find someone else better but Hunter did shape up eventually still I didn’t trust him. Ms. Gill does write well and even though this story didn’t impress me I still will read other books from her.
Ms. Tamara Gill writes a good story and this story even with its length is engaging. There is a lot to like, a quick romantic story with a strong feisty heroine that you can’t help but love. Sure the book is the second in the series but stands alone and maintains to be a nice easy read too. The cover is also just beautiful even though I try not to judge a book by the cover this is Cecilia personified, yes just her softer side but still I love it. Hunter is not someone that is easy to like. He spends a lot of the story drunk and when he decides to sober up I can’t help but feel scared for his welfare. In my medical mind I seriously wanted to make him throw all that alcohol up, hydrate him, and make him sleep for a very long while. Even with him sober all his ideas about making Cecilia his mistress made me mad. He wasn’t winning me over even when he shows his affection and feelings towards her he still manages to mess things up. I did want Cecilia to find someone else better but Hunter did shape up eventually still I didn’t trust him. Ms. Gill does write well and even though this story didn’t impress me I still will read other books from her.
October 6, 2018
I originally had an ARC from the author for this (thank you!) but there were a lot of grammatical corrections that needed to be made and I was finding them really distracting. Unfortunately, or fortunately, as the case may be, I had the ARC (cringes) for so long the ebook was already out so I bought a copy—it’s really hard for me to be fair to a book when I’m so distracted by the sentence structure.
So I can say that a lot of work went into the book between the ARC and the finished book, so I’m really glad I didn’t keep struggling with it (it could have been a formatting error when it transferred to my computer, also).
I have noticed more books dealing with the topic of alcoholism (granted, I don’t read really widely in the genre so this could be old hat, but it’s newer for me, at least). I think it’s a good topic to address. This was a quick-moving plot, and not an extremely long book, so I’m not sure it dealt with the subject as realistically as it could have.
The characters were either good or bad, it seemed, with Cecelia and Hunter being the exception. Cecelia acknowledges her faults—being quick to judge others by the amount of money they make. Hunter gradually accepts his and stops drinking, but only with the intent of making Cecelia his mistress.
I found Cecelia’s father’s sudden insistence on her marriage to Mr. White a little odd, including that he would take Mr. White’s side against her. If he were such an astute lawyer one would have to wonder about his state of mind if he were being taken in by someone as devious as slimy as Mr. White. It just seems like he should be smarter than that. And until she actually appeared, I thought Cecelia’s mother was dead for all the good she was doing in terms of the marriage agreement. It seems like a man who would employ his daughter would listen to his wife? And surely her mother would believe her?
I was just not drawn into this as much as I had hoped to be.
So I can say that a lot of work went into the book between the ARC and the finished book, so I’m really glad I didn’t keep struggling with it (it could have been a formatting error when it transferred to my computer, also).
I have noticed more books dealing with the topic of alcoholism (granted, I don’t read really widely in the genre so this could be old hat, but it’s newer for me, at least). I think it’s a good topic to address. This was a quick-moving plot, and not an extremely long book, so I’m not sure it dealt with the subject as realistically as it could have.
The characters were either good or bad, it seemed, with Cecelia and Hunter being the exception. Cecelia acknowledges her faults—being quick to judge others by the amount of money they make. Hunter gradually accepts his and stops drinking, but only with the intent of making Cecelia his mistress.
I found Cecelia’s father’s sudden insistence on her marriage to Mr. White a little odd, including that he would take Mr. White’s side against her. If he were such an astute lawyer one would have to wonder about his state of mind if he were being taken in by someone as devious as slimy as Mr. White. It just seems like he should be smarter than that. And until she actually appeared, I thought Cecelia’s mother was dead for all the good she was doing in terms of the marriage agreement. It seems like a man who would employ his daughter would listen to his wife? And surely her mother would believe her?
I was just not drawn into this as much as I had hoped to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2019
THIS WAS OKAY. MORE LIKE A COMPACT ROMANCE.
HERO is a borderline alcoholic. Frankly, this story lacked depth because we never know what actually drove Aaron to drink as he did - was it his broken family? was it a possible bad love? what were his Demons? Or was it just because he was privileged enough and simply got away with it? As a character, I couldn't quite respect him because he gave me nothing that I approved of. Apart from being alcoholic and being a skirt chaser, what else did he have to offer? Yes, he did stop drinking for Lia and then well he did it so easily, I felt like I was cheated of something more.
HEROINE is a driven young woman from the middle class who seeks to open up at school and orphanage in a building owned by Aaron himself. Upon being late for a meeting one morning, she found a drunk Aaron stumbling close to his death and saved his life. Somehow, she believed they won't meet again due to their different social circles. Who knew that the man who owns the building she wants is Aaron himself and the blasted man refuses to sell it to her, adamant to build his gentlemen's club there. While I do enjoy their banters, since she's quite heated about his idly crass social lifestyle, comparing it to the poor, homeless children...it was the only sensational part of the story. Their attraction while there, could have been so much better.
OVERALL it was a mild, scratching the surface romance. Call be biased for having read from authors who really create a 3-Dimensional character with demons and sufferings. Here...Aaron just struck me a rich man's son with nothing better to do in his life, even if he does turn around for the better at the end.
HERO is a borderline alcoholic. Frankly, this story lacked depth because we never know what actually drove Aaron to drink as he did - was it his broken family? was it a possible bad love? what were his Demons? Or was it just because he was privileged enough and simply got away with it? As a character, I couldn't quite respect him because he gave me nothing that I approved of. Apart from being alcoholic and being a skirt chaser, what else did he have to offer? Yes, he did stop drinking for Lia and then well he did it so easily, I felt like I was cheated of something more.
HEROINE is a driven young woman from the middle class who seeks to open up at school and orphanage in a building owned by Aaron himself. Upon being late for a meeting one morning, she found a drunk Aaron stumbling close to his death and saved his life. Somehow, she believed they won't meet again due to their different social circles. Who knew that the man who owns the building she wants is Aaron himself and the blasted man refuses to sell it to her, adamant to build his gentlemen's club there. While I do enjoy their banters, since she's quite heated about his idly crass social lifestyle, comparing it to the poor, homeless children...it was the only sensational part of the story. Their attraction while there, could have been so much better.
OVERALL it was a mild, scratching the surface romance. Call be biased for having read from authors who really create a 3-Dimensional character with demons and sufferings. Here...Aaron just struck me a rich man's son with nothing better to do in his life, even if he does turn around for the better at the end.
February 2, 2019
Cecilia Smith is the daughter of a successful Attorney. Her passion is to set up and oversee orphanages and other charities to help the poor. Her father wants her to marry a vile Mr White so that the firm (which he will hand down to Mr. White) will stay in the family. Cecilia can not stand the man. On her way to a meeting, about purchasing a building, she meets Hunter, Marquess of Aaron by chance, well actually saves his drunk behind from getting hit by a carriage. She makes quite an impression on Hunter and now he can't stop thinking of her. She later finds out he owns the building and refuses to sell to her. Her friend the Duchess of Athelby invites her to a ball and she meets Hunter again. Once again he is drunk. She recognizes he has a problem. She makes a wager stay sober and she will allow him to kiss her. He doesn't realize what that entails. He goes through a very rough time and Cecilia stays by his side. Her actions angers her father and Mr. White and they both demand that she marry. They even post the banns. Now she realizes she loves Hunter and stands firm, but Hunter is a rogue and doesn't quite realize what a treasure she is and wants her for his mistress. She is broken hearted and leaves both her family and Hunter. With her gone Hunter realizes he wants her for his wife. He needs to convince her of that!
Tamara Gill handles a major addiction problem quite well in this story. She addresses the problem and details the recovery while maintaining the romance in this story! Well Done!
Tamara Gill handles a major addiction problem quite well in this story. She addresses the problem and details the recovery while maintaining the romance in this story! Well Done!
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