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Season of Scandal #1
Pursued by the Rake
Welcome to the new series Season of Scandal by USA Today Bestselling Author Mary Lancaster!
Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out.
The ladies flee the scene to fight as best they can for their lost reputations. And to confront the man who tricked them.
If her reputation is false, is his?
Hazel is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again.
To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat, Sir Joseph Sayle, is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. She hates his arrogance as much as his inexplicable effect on her senses. Under normal circumstances, she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing.
However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
It seems Sir Joe is much more than the man Hazel thought him. Amusing, kind, and passionate, he and his elegant pursuit provide exciting distractions to her woes.
But flirting with him is a dangerous game, and by the time they face the trickster responsible for her ruin, her heart is already lost.
Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out.
The ladies flee the scene to fight as best they can for their lost reputations. And to confront the man who tricked them.
If her reputation is false, is his?
Hazel is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again.
To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat, Sir Joseph Sayle, is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. She hates his arrogance as much as his inexplicable effect on her senses. Under normal circumstances, she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing.
However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
It seems Sir Joe is much more than the man Hazel thought him. Amusing, kind, and passionate, he and his elegant pursuit provide exciting distractions to her woes.
But flirting with him is a dangerous game, and by the time they face the trickster responsible for her ruin, her heart is already lost.
264 pages, Paperback
First published July 8, 2020
About the author
Mary Lancaster
139 books531 followersMary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
June 5, 2021
I stopped at 74%. This story felt too much of the same.
It had potential, but some elements detracted from the
story.
Flirty Sir Joseph (a diplomat, a nice change) and Hazel
were the MCs. Also 2 baddies, one of whom acted good
or bad: hard to determine. Interesting b/c we humans
tend to be not all good, not all bad, but have some of both.
I found too much internal + external dialogue on propriety
+reputation.
A kidnapping. If I had $1 for every romance I've read
containing this element, I'd be rich enough/ financially
savvy enough to be a SEC consultant! Another use for
this element: it acts as a good sedative. Zzzzzz.
It had potential, but some elements detracted from the
story.
Flirty Sir Joseph (a diplomat, a nice change) and Hazel
were the MCs. Also 2 baddies, one of whom acted good
or bad: hard to determine. Interesting b/c we humans
tend to be not all good, not all bad, but have some of both.
I found too much internal + external dialogue on propriety
+reputation.
A kidnapping. If I had $1 for every romance I've read
containing this element, I'd be rich enough/ financially
savvy enough to be a SEC consultant! Another use for
this element: it acts as a good sedative. Zzzzzz.
July 2, 2020
Pursued by the Rake
Season of Scandal Series #1
Mary Lancaster
https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Release date 07/09/2020
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing
Blurb :
Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out.
The ladies flee the scene to fight as best they can for their lost reputations. And to confront the man who tricked them.
If her reputation is false, is his?
Hazel is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again.
To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat Sir Joseph Sayle is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. She hates his arrogance as much as his inexplicable effect on her senses. Under normal circumstances she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing.
However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
It seems Sir Joe is much more than the man Hazel thought him. Amusing, kind, and passionate, he and his elegant pursuit provide exciting distractions to her woes.
But flirting with him is a dangerous game, and by the time they face the trickster responsible for her ruin, her heart is already lost.
My review :
Will her ruin lead her to her salvation...
Nothing better than be at the beginning of a series, no feelings of having missed something, no regret to have not read the book before, no visiting characters as everyone is newly introduced.
I have read quite a lot of regency stories, and few to none where with the Princess of Wales as a “side character”, as even if she is not physically present, she is part of the plot. Every regency set story mentions Prinny but near to none his estranged wife. Plus, while I have read some romances with ladies-in-waiting, I quite thought it was a custom of the past, well something before the XIXth century. But of course, there are royals, so there is a court with its lot of courtiers.
Hazel and Joe courtship was quite sweet, while Hazel after her first encounter with him labeled him as a rake, and tried to avoid his presence. When in time of need, he is the only one to step in and help her.
And very soon, she realizes everything she thought about him was only preconceived ideas. He is his reputation but also a kind and caring man, not one to hesitate to give a hand when necessary.
Joe knows his relationship with Hazel was strained by their first meeting, she dislikes everything he represents.
But the more time they spend time together, the more she lets her enmity shows. Revealing the fair and thoughtful woman she is.
This is a journey of discovery for them, where they bury the past and their false assumptions to open their heart to something they did not expect.
Both are very likable characters and while I did not agree with Hazel last move, I also understand why, because it was a considerate choice.
Mrs Lancaster gifts us with a lovely tale of seing past society’s lenses.
I hope we will see again Selim.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Season of Scandal Series #1
Mary Lancaster
https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Release date 07/09/2020
Publisher Dragonblade Publishing
Blurb :
Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out.
The ladies flee the scene to fight as best they can for their lost reputations. And to confront the man who tricked them.
If her reputation is false, is his?
Hazel is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again.
To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat Sir Joseph Sayle is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. She hates his arrogance as much as his inexplicable effect on her senses. Under normal circumstances she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing.
However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
It seems Sir Joe is much more than the man Hazel thought him. Amusing, kind, and passionate, he and his elegant pursuit provide exciting distractions to her woes.
But flirting with him is a dangerous game, and by the time they face the trickster responsible for her ruin, her heart is already lost.
My review :
Will her ruin lead her to her salvation...
Nothing better than be at the beginning of a series, no feelings of having missed something, no regret to have not read the book before, no visiting characters as everyone is newly introduced.
I have read quite a lot of regency stories, and few to none where with the Princess of Wales as a “side character”, as even if she is not physically present, she is part of the plot. Every regency set story mentions Prinny but near to none his estranged wife. Plus, while I have read some romances with ladies-in-waiting, I quite thought it was a custom of the past, well something before the XIXth century. But of course, there are royals, so there is a court with its lot of courtiers.
Hazel and Joe courtship was quite sweet, while Hazel after her first encounter with him labeled him as a rake, and tried to avoid his presence. When in time of need, he is the only one to step in and help her.
And very soon, she realizes everything she thought about him was only preconceived ideas. He is his reputation but also a kind and caring man, not one to hesitate to give a hand when necessary.
Joe knows his relationship with Hazel was strained by their first meeting, she dislikes everything he represents.
But the more time they spend time together, the more she lets her enmity shows. Revealing the fair and thoughtful woman she is.
This is a journey of discovery for them, where they bury the past and their false assumptions to open their heart to something they did not expect.
Both are very likable characters and while I did not agree with Hazel last move, I also understand why, because it was a considerate choice.
Mrs Lancaster gifts us with a lovely tale of seing past society’s lenses.
I hope we will see again Selim.
4.5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Dragonblade Publishing, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
March 27, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋 (very vague language, flowery and poetic instead of explicit)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥 (one very vague open door scene)
Humor: A touch
Perspective: Third person from the hero and heroine a bit from the villain (Braden)
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: Not too far in, about 6% (there are some remembrances before this point)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, two months later
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form 4 years past due
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Lancaster’s Season of Scandal series.
Basic plot:
Hazel is ruined and desperate to find a place of safety. Help turns up in the unexpected and unwanted form of Joseph Sayle.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency
- class difference elements – diplomat hero and ‘nobody’ heroine
- ruined heroine
- light road trip vibes
- diplomat hero
- former princess handmaiden
- close proximity
- villain to overcome
- low steam – one scene that is very light and a few kisses
Ages:
- Heroine is 22, didn’t catch hero
First line:
The residence of the Princess of Wales blazed with light.
My thoughts:
I really love the idea of this series. Compromised/ruined heroine is one of my favorite tropes so a whole series that features that sounds really fun to me!
But this one sadly fell a bit flat for me. There’s a lot of uncertainty from the heroine and a lot of self doubt. Lots of toeing around how each other feels while dealing with a villain, mystery side characters and some minor other woman drama.
The steam was a let down for me. It was open door but very light.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋 (very vague language, flowery and poetic instead of explicit)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥 (one very vague open door scene)
Humor: A touch
Perspective: Third person from the hero and heroine a bit from the villain (Braden)
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: Not too far in, about 6% (there are some remembrances before this point)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, two months later
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form 4 years past due
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Lancaster’s Season of Scandal series.
Basic plot:
Hazel is ruined and desperate to find a place of safety. Help turns up in the unexpected and unwanted form of Joseph Sayle.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency
- class difference elements – diplomat hero and ‘nobody’ heroine
- ruined heroine
- light road trip vibes
- diplomat hero
- former princess handmaiden
- close proximity
- villain to overcome
- low steam – one scene that is very light and a few kisses
Ages:
- Heroine is 22, didn’t catch hero
First line:
The residence of the Princess of Wales blazed with light.
My thoughts:
I really love the idea of this series. Compromised/ruined heroine is one of my favorite tropes so a whole series that features that sounds really fun to me!
But this one sadly fell a bit flat for me. There’s a lot of uncertainty from the heroine and a lot of self doubt. Lots of toeing around how each other feels while dealing with a villain, mystery side characters and some minor other woman drama.
The steam was a let down for me. It was open door but very light.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
August 11, 2022
After accidentally spending a night unchaperoned at an out-of-control party, Hazel tries to escape to safety with her former governess, but finds herself instead with a diplomat and a passel of children.
This was a quick, enjoyable read with a dashing hero and a sensible heroine, a dastardly villain and a fair amount of humor and heart. The leads are well-suited to each other and I appreciated their sense of adventure. There are a fair number of subplots though, some of them so minor I despair of them being tied up in the rest of the series.
Anyway, I'm definitely reading the rest, subplots addressed or not!
This was a quick, enjoyable read with a dashing hero and a sensible heroine, a dastardly villain and a fair amount of humor and heart. The leads are well-suited to each other and I appreciated their sense of adventure. There are a fair number of subplots though, some of them so minor I despair of them being tied up in the rest of the series.
Anyway, I'm definitely reading the rest, subplots addressed or not!
July 3, 2020
I received an arc of this via netgally to review.
I feel like 3 stars doesn't convey very well that I did enjoy this book for the most part. It was very easy to read and it had a lot of the elements of historical romances that I tend to enjoy. It just didn't rise to the level of originality and storytelling where I felt like I would rate it 4 stars.
The first part of this book started off a bit too fast for me. There was so much going on in the first part of this book and I would have preferred for their to be a little bit more establishment of the characters of Joe and Hazel. The fact that the beginning of the book was so quick made it hard for me to feel like I really knew the characters that well throughout the whole book.
What we did learn about Hazel and Joe I did really like. I liked seeing the way they interacted with the people around them, especially the children. I think that can be one of the best ways to introduce their personality to the reader and I think that has done well here.
I thought the plot with the Lord was interesting but a little messy at parts. I never got a really good sense of his motivation and I wish his reasoning was expanded upon a bit more so I could understand it more. I also felt like some of the other side plots felt a little disjointed and it made the book almost seen it was originally a collection of short stories. I also thought this was slightly repetitive in some parts. I think that may be partially due to its length because I felt like it could have been a bit shorter.
Also just something minor, it seems like this series will follow all four of the ladies who were stuck at this party at the beginning of this book but we don't get to know any of those other ladies in this book. In romance series set up like this, I like to get to know the characters that will get their own books so I'm excited for their stories, but that's a minor complaint.
I don't know if I would read more books in this series but I think I would consider reading more books by this author. This was pretty good and I liked it for this most part, it just wasn't quite a four star read for me.
I feel like 3 stars doesn't convey very well that I did enjoy this book for the most part. It was very easy to read and it had a lot of the elements of historical romances that I tend to enjoy. It just didn't rise to the level of originality and storytelling where I felt like I would rate it 4 stars.
The first part of this book started off a bit too fast for me. There was so much going on in the first part of this book and I would have preferred for their to be a little bit more establishment of the characters of Joe and Hazel. The fact that the beginning of the book was so quick made it hard for me to feel like I really knew the characters that well throughout the whole book.
What we did learn about Hazel and Joe I did really like. I liked seeing the way they interacted with the people around them, especially the children. I think that can be one of the best ways to introduce their personality to the reader and I think that has done well here.
I thought the plot with the Lord was interesting but a little messy at parts. I never got a really good sense of his motivation and I wish his reasoning was expanded upon a bit more so I could understand it more. I also felt like some of the other side plots felt a little disjointed and it made the book almost seen it was originally a collection of short stories. I also thought this was slightly repetitive in some parts. I think that may be partially due to its length because I felt like it could have been a bit shorter.
Also just something minor, it seems like this series will follow all four of the ladies who were stuck at this party at the beginning of this book but we don't get to know any of those other ladies in this book. In romance series set up like this, I like to get to know the characters that will get their own books so I'm excited for their stories, but that's a minor complaint.
I don't know if I would read more books in this series but I think I would consider reading more books by this author. This was pretty good and I liked it for this most part, it just wasn't quite a four star read for me.
August 4, 2020
4⭐️
358 pages, Historical Romance
Published by Dragonblade Publishing
Stand-alone
HEA
Loved, loved the cover. Isn’t it beautiful? A great summer read and one of my favorites this year. I just fell in love with these two. They ended up being perfect for each other and I loved it. Joe was honorably, charming and gorgeous. What more could a girl ask for??
This is a new author to me and I’m definitely reading more of her books. The writing was very good and I can’t wait for book 2. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review
358 pages, Historical Romance
Published by Dragonblade Publishing
Stand-alone
HEA
Loved, loved the cover. Isn’t it beautiful? A great summer read and one of my favorites this year. I just fell in love with these two. They ended up being perfect for each other and I loved it. Joe was honorably, charming and gorgeous. What more could a girl ask for??
This is a new author to me and I’m definitely reading more of her books. The writing was very good and I can’t wait for book 2. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review
April 5, 2021
I really enjoyed this Recency romance novel -- the quick pacing, outrageous situations, humor, and the cast of characters that promises more books in this series. I'm especially intrigued by Emma and Selim! Overall I think this is a quick, fun read!
August 4, 2020
Loved it! ♥️ Somewhat clean romance ♥️ Stand-alone ♥️ Historical Romance ♥️ 358 pages ♥️ HEA
November 8, 2020
Rating: 4.5/5.0
This mystery and how to repair the damage provides much of the tension in this book.
Read full review in the 2020 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This mystery and how to repair the damage provides much of the tension in this book.
Read full review in the 2020 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 16, 2020
I have received an ARC of this book from Dragonblade Publishing Group and NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
First time reading this author and it was a good surprise. I liked a lot. It’s going to be an author to my list of keep and now I want the next ones in line on this series, Season of Scandal.
The story is filled with humor and romance, even bits of mystery that kept me reading till I know more and what was going to happen. Apart from the characters, that were very well developed, the story itself made sense, to me, at least. Everything seemed to happen the moment it had to happen, including the saddest and most worrying things.
The author's writing is pleasant and makes it much easier to read and enjoy the plot and the suspense.
It is going to be a Series that I will keep an eye out, for sure.
First time reading this author and it was a good surprise. I liked a lot. It’s going to be an author to my list of keep and now I want the next ones in line on this series, Season of Scandal.
The story is filled with humor and romance, even bits of mystery that kept me reading till I know more and what was going to happen. Apart from the characters, that were very well developed, the story itself made sense, to me, at least. Everything seemed to happen the moment it had to happen, including the saddest and most worrying things.
The author's writing is pleasant and makes it much easier to read and enjoy the plot and the suspense.
It is going to be a Series that I will keep an eye out, for sure.
July 4, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Different and fresh.
Because of this it was all the more enjoyable in the reading.
Handmaidens of the Princess , 4 Ladies are set up and inadvertently made to stay the night in the same place where debauchery and other things occur.
Now ruined the Ladies attempt to return to their families.
In this book Hazel is helped in her hour of need by a Rake and Ladies man Sir Joe Sayle.
Unbeknown to them both ,the people responsible are closing in , but they have more problems on the horizon, the main one is their passionate attraction to each other.
Very enjoyable and addictive reading, with excellent characters and storyline, looking forward to more from the Ladies of the court.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Different and fresh.
Because of this it was all the more enjoyable in the reading.
Handmaidens of the Princess , 4 Ladies are set up and inadvertently made to stay the night in the same place where debauchery and other things occur.
Now ruined the Ladies attempt to return to their families.
In this book Hazel is helped in her hour of need by a Rake and Ladies man Sir Joe Sayle.
Unbeknown to them both ,the people responsible are closing in , but they have more problems on the horizon, the main one is their passionate attraction to each other.
Very enjoyable and addictive reading, with excellent characters and storyline, looking forward to more from the Ladies of the court.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
July 15, 2020
I really liked the premise of the book, having to go on the run with a romantic interest to get away from a villainous suitor, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me! I thought the plot flowed pretty well, and I did like our main characters - Joe and Hazel - along with their friends and family who come up later in this tale. I would have loved to see more about the Spriggs kids, we got to see them in a fair amount of detail early on in the novel, but that did tail away by the halfway point which I thought was a shame. I also really liked seeing Joe's family here but, again, would have liked to have seen more of them. I think Lancaster did a great job giving us these likeable characters we want to root for, but at points it felt a little 'tell' and not 'show', especially in relation to Joe's feelings towards Hazel.
In terms of the set up of the novel, I found the start a little confusing but found my bearings pretty quickly. I would have loved to have see more establishing of the other maids of the princess in this one, as I have a feeling this series will be following each of them in turn and I still don't know them at all. That being said, seeing how far the relationship between Joseph and Hazel comes throughout the novel was really sweet, but again, part of me wishes it had unfurled a little slower as the transformation from seemingly hating Joe to falling for him felt a little too quick for me.
I also think I've discovered a pet peeve that I have when it comes to characters, and in particular, the bad ones. I do tend to enjoy books with likeable characters a lot, but I am capable of enjoying the experience of reading about unlikeable people, as long as they are fully fleshed out and don't remain as caricatures. This was an issue I had with Blackmoore. Lord Barden was that caricature character and there was literally no redeeming him and honestly he just came across slightly psychotic. If that had been the intention, it definitely came through, but I don't think the narrative really pushed this idea forward, simply stating that he's got a grudge and would go to pretty major lengths. The saving grace of this novel is that he is the only character who had this kind of characterisation, I enjoyed all the other characters :)
A lovely little book, but I felt that I didn't quite connect with it! I feel like this is a pretty harsh review for a book I did genuinely enjoy. I just felt there were a few things that, if fixed, would exponentially improve the book for me. It's a 3 star rating for this one, but I also would really like to see what the next books involve. I hope it involves a further delving into the interactions between the handmaids because there was none of that here, I'm hopeful for future instalments :)
This book was kindly given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
In terms of the set up of the novel, I found the start a little confusing but found my bearings pretty quickly. I would have loved to have see more establishing of the other maids of the princess in this one, as I have a feeling this series will be following each of them in turn and I still don't know them at all. That being said, seeing how far the relationship between Joseph and Hazel comes throughout the novel was really sweet, but again, part of me wishes it had unfurled a little slower as the transformation from seemingly hating Joe to falling for him felt a little too quick for me.
I also think I've discovered a pet peeve that I have when it comes to characters, and in particular, the bad ones. I do tend to enjoy books with likeable characters a lot, but I am capable of enjoying the experience of reading about unlikeable people, as long as they are fully fleshed out and don't remain as caricatures. This was an issue I had with Blackmoore. Lord Barden was that caricature character and there was literally no redeeming him and honestly he just came across slightly psychotic. If that had been the intention, it definitely came through, but I don't think the narrative really pushed this idea forward, simply stating that he's got a grudge and would go to pretty major lengths. The saving grace of this novel is that he is the only character who had this kind of characterisation, I enjoyed all the other characters :)
A lovely little book, but I felt that I didn't quite connect with it! I feel like this is a pretty harsh review for a book I did genuinely enjoy. I just felt there were a few things that, if fixed, would exponentially improve the book for me. It's a 3 star rating for this one, but I also would really like to see what the next books involve. I hope it involves a further delving into the interactions between the handmaids because there was none of that here, I'm hopeful for future instalments :)
This book was kindly given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
October 25, 2020
Liked their story, the H is a strong and clever man. As his feelings for the h get stronger he hides them from her, as he knows she's not quite ready to believe in him. She's trying to hide from a scandal and it was great to see her become more confident in herself, thanks to how he supported her. There was quite an adventure, fast paced with interesting cast of characters. Loved the ending.
July 21, 2020
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
When she turns up to start her latest shift as one of the Princess of Wales' ladie-in-waiting, Hazel discover a bevy of guests, drinking and eating, and the Princess nowhere to be seen. She and three other ladies hide in the Princess' sitting room, thinking their charge to be in her bedroom, and when they realise they've been left alone, unchaperoned, at a veritable orgy, they know they need to quickly get home, or at least to somewhere respectably, to save their reputations. Hazel plans to travel to Essex to the home of her old governess, but misses the stagecoach, and comes upon none other than Sir Joseph Sayle, one of the Princess' flames, and notorious rake. Even with his reputation, though, Hazel does trust him, and they travel together, first to Essex, where they meet the Sprigg children, and save a would-be highwayman. But, they have the wicked Lord Barden on their trail, and Hazel's previous interactions with him have led him to have a vendetta against Hazel, and will do everything he can to make her his, and ruin her in the eyes of the ton. Will they be able to stop him, and overcome their own growing attraction?
This book started fast, and stayed a really quick read throughout. Hazel is the natural born granddaughter of the late Duke of York, so has connections, but not the wealth to back it up. She loves being in Princess Caroline's employ, and cares extremely for her charge, especially with how her marriage to the Prince Regent is imploding. Apart from the interactions with the Prince's man, Lord Barden, her work has been perfect, and she can't envision how anything would go wrong. I really liked her personality, and the way she adapted to the various situations she found herself in throughout the book. Because of Joe's past dalliances with the Princess, Hazel wants to hate him, but he breaks down all her defences, and shows himself to be honourable, even through a bit of a rake in the past. The flirting and chemistry between Hazel and Joe is everything you could ask for, and there were scenes - such as in Essex with the children - that was just perfect! I loved how they overcame everything that was thrown at them, and they were definitely made for each other. I'm looking forward to the next book, Abandoned to the Prodigal, about another one of the ladies-in-waiting, Lady Juliet.
When she turns up to start her latest shift as one of the Princess of Wales' ladie-in-waiting, Hazel discover a bevy of guests, drinking and eating, and the Princess nowhere to be seen. She and three other ladies hide in the Princess' sitting room, thinking their charge to be in her bedroom, and when they realise they've been left alone, unchaperoned, at a veritable orgy, they know they need to quickly get home, or at least to somewhere respectably, to save their reputations. Hazel plans to travel to Essex to the home of her old governess, but misses the stagecoach, and comes upon none other than Sir Joseph Sayle, one of the Princess' flames, and notorious rake. Even with his reputation, though, Hazel does trust him, and they travel together, first to Essex, where they meet the Sprigg children, and save a would-be highwayman. But, they have the wicked Lord Barden on their trail, and Hazel's previous interactions with him have led him to have a vendetta against Hazel, and will do everything he can to make her his, and ruin her in the eyes of the ton. Will they be able to stop him, and overcome their own growing attraction?
This book started fast, and stayed a really quick read throughout. Hazel is the natural born granddaughter of the late Duke of York, so has connections, but not the wealth to back it up. She loves being in Princess Caroline's employ, and cares extremely for her charge, especially with how her marriage to the Prince Regent is imploding. Apart from the interactions with the Prince's man, Lord Barden, her work has been perfect, and she can't envision how anything would go wrong. I really liked her personality, and the way she adapted to the various situations she found herself in throughout the book. Because of Joe's past dalliances with the Princess, Hazel wants to hate him, but he breaks down all her defences, and shows himself to be honourable, even through a bit of a rake in the past. The flirting and chemistry between Hazel and Joe is everything you could ask for, and there were scenes - such as in Essex with the children - that was just perfect! I loved how they overcame everything that was thrown at them, and they were definitely made for each other. I'm looking forward to the next book, Abandoned to the Prodigal, about another one of the ladies-in-waiting, Lady Juliet.
July 16, 2020
Pursued by the Rake by Mary Lancaster
I remember from 1st grade our teacher had us stand in a line and she whispered into the ear of the person next to her and it went down the line. At the end of the line there was 14 or 15 of us and she asked the last person at the end to tell us what they were told and she asked the first person what they were told by her. Just in that small class room and not that many kids the thing said did not match at all! So, can you imagine how a person who was intending to destroy someone’s reputation and was not only doing it by a gossip tattle paper but by innuendo at a packed ballroom party!! Perception and Evil Tongues!
Hazel was an amazing lady who attended the Princess of Wales and during this time she spurned a creepy guy, Lord Barden who decided he only wanted her as a mistress because her father was just a illegitimate son of the Duke of York who was dead even though he was the Kings brother. But because the Duke was dead her father would have no political value. What a total loser!
So, Lord Barden felt that since she turned him down he was going to get even with her by ruining her reputation!
The true hero steps in, Sir Joe Sayles even though Hazel at first thinks he is a lothario!
There is a lot of adventures in this book with Hazels old governesses family and then with Joe & Hazel which are comical and amusing. At first I wasn’t so sure about the book, but then the adventures started and the drama brought the book together !
What Joe & his friend Prince Selim did to Lord Barden was hilarious! I do wish that the author would have touched more on the repercussions against Lord Barden because he was so dastardly that I think he needed more done! I hope that there is a book about Emma and Prince Selim!
A great read for a relaxing afternoon!
I received an advanced copy from netgally and I willingly give my thoughts and opinions!
July 4, 2020
Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out. The ladies flee the scene to fight as best they can for their lost reputations. And to confront the man who tricked them.
Hazel Curwen is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again. To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat Sir Joseph Sayle is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. Under normal circumstances she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing. However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
The start of a new series - I loved it & read it in two sittings finishing it well into the night, as I couldn’t put it down. A very well written engrossing read with very well portrayed characters who all had plenty of depth. I loved Hazel who was a strong woman who didn’t 'fall apart' when she was left to fend for herself whilst also facing ruin. Oh Joe! toe curlingly gorgeous, caring, honourable and with a lovely sense of humour. The road to their HEA was highly entertaining with a vengeful villain, highwaymen, an Ottoman prince & several delightful children. I look forward to the rest of the series & can’t wait for the villain's plan to be fully revealed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Hazel Curwen is ruined. With no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again. To Hazel, the handsome and respected diplomat Sir Joseph Sayle is an infamous rake who took advantage of the princess she served. Under normal circumstances she would never have dreamed of setting foot in his curricle, least of all when he was, by his own admission, “not entirely sober” after a night’s carousing. However, the journey in his relaxed company is unexpectedly fun, and when they reach their destination and are threatened by a parcel of eccentric children with a pistol, he enters the adventure with enthusiasm.
The start of a new series - I loved it & read it in two sittings finishing it well into the night, as I couldn’t put it down. A very well written engrossing read with very well portrayed characters who all had plenty of depth. I loved Hazel who was a strong woman who didn’t 'fall apart' when she was left to fend for herself whilst also facing ruin. Oh Joe! toe curlingly gorgeous, caring, honourable and with a lovely sense of humour. The road to their HEA was highly entertaining with a vengeful villain, highwaymen, an Ottoman prince & several delightful children. I look forward to the rest of the series & can’t wait for the villain's plan to be fully revealed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 31, 2021
This was an interesting story, but at times I felt a little slow. I was not glued to the story, as I should have been. First our heroine was a lady for a Princess married to Prinney, heir to the King of England. She was not treated well, and basically ignored by her husband ,that picked her because of her heritage to France. When the war finally ended between France, and England she packed up quickly, and left for home only taking two ladies with her. Her haste to escape put her four other ladies in jeopardy. Thinking their princess was entertaining privately, they stayed in the main room, and only learned she had left the day prior, by a servant. That left the,four ladies reputations in ruins. Three were from titled families, with wealth, and social standing. The last one was a distant relative of the. king, whose father was at sea, and grandmother lived in Scotland. This was worsened by an a wild party ,that was held in the palace that night, although they took no part. The news spread rapidly, and she took what little money she had, and three or four dresses, and planned to stay with her favorite female, and once her governess. A rake named Sir Joe, by his friends caused her to miss her coach, and She neither liked him, nor respected him,, but they did seem to be heading in the same direction. One thing working as a lady at the palace ,had taught her was to have no feelings,for rakes. Their journey goes awry several times, and children become involved, and another young love story. Along with a man who may want to kill Sir Joe, and an evil plotting rake with royal ties that has,nefarious plans for Hazel.. The ending was perfect, and things worked out in lots of ways. It even had an epilogue. The last half of the book was much better, once you knew who everyone was, and what they wanted, you could just relax into the story. I gave it a four.
Read
October 18, 2021Heat Factor: It’s not throbby and there’s no slick flesh but by golly it was satisfying
Character Chemistry: It was seriously the sweetest, most adorable romance and I MELTED
Plot: Lady-in-Waiting is tricked and compromised, and then rescued by hands-down my current favorite hero (this man is like, 50% chill and 50% capable and my heart swelled so much I was concerned for my health)
Overall: After what has felt like a tiny smut slump, this absolutely adorable and totally sexy regency reminded me why I love this stuff in the first place.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
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Character Chemistry: It was seriously the sweetest, most adorable romance and I MELTED
Plot: Lady-in-Waiting is tricked and compromised, and then rescued by hands-down my current favorite hero (this man is like, 50% chill and 50% capable and my heart swelled so much I was concerned for my health)
Overall: After what has felt like a tiny smut slump, this absolutely adorable and totally sexy regency reminded me why I love this stuff in the first place.
Read our full review at The Smut Report
Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
July 9, 2020
Enchanting
This may be my favorite book by Mary Lancaster. The play between Sir Joe and Hazel is fun and engaging. They take a very unexpected trip together and have a lot of fun getting to know each other while outwitting the villain. A must read
This may be my favorite book by Mary Lancaster. The play between Sir Joe and Hazel is fun and engaging. They take a very unexpected trip together and have a lot of fun getting to know each other while outwitting the villain. A must read
September 4, 2024
3.5 stars
A sweet historical romance between a charming rogue of a hero and a proud heroine, although some pungent historical facts surrounding the events of the story saved it from being too sugary.
A sweet historical romance between a charming rogue of a hero and a proud heroine, although some pungent historical facts surrounding the events of the story saved it from being too sugary.
August 5, 2020
Pursued by the Rake is the first book in the Season of Scandal series and it certainly started the series with a bang! It was full of humor, witty banter, misconstrued reputations, villains, and intrigue. I feel like my emotions were on a roller coaster, but I think this might be my favorite book by this author. I loved the storyline and my attention was grabbed from the beginning. The series is based on four ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales being tricked into spending the night at the Princess’s residence when she wasn’t there, but their reputations are ruined when news spread that a wild party had occurred.
Hazel Curwen’s reputation was ruined, with no family in London her only option is to travel to her previous governess’s house to stay until she can follow her grandmother to Scotland. Encountering Sir Joseph “Joe” Sayle, a known rake, and traveling with him to Essex was not the plan, but she had few options. She didn’t expect her opinion of him to change along the trip or to start having feelings for him. Joe had fallen for Hazel the first time he saw her, but him coming from another women’s bed-chamber didn’t start their relationship off very well. Can their adventurous journey to Essex help improve her opinion of him and allow him to win her heart?
I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I’m curious about the other three women’s stories and why the villain tricked them. Also, I hope to see Selim again and his future happiness.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hazel Curwen’s reputation was ruined, with no family in London her only option is to travel to her previous governess’s house to stay until she can follow her grandmother to Scotland. Encountering Sir Joseph “Joe” Sayle, a known rake, and traveling with him to Essex was not the plan, but she had few options. She didn’t expect her opinion of him to change along the trip or to start having feelings for him. Joe had fallen for Hazel the first time he saw her, but him coming from another women’s bed-chamber didn’t start their relationship off very well. Can their adventurous journey to Essex help improve her opinion of him and allow him to win her heart?
I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I’m curious about the other three women’s stories and why the villain tricked them. Also, I hope to see Selim again and his future happiness.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 19, 2022
A fresh tale of a young lady, the charming rake who comes to her aid, and the escapades they create in order to escape the villain and his plan for her social and physical ruin.
July 4, 2020
DNF @ 25% I might pick it up later on, but I really struggled to get into it. The characters felt very bland for me and I wasn't able to get connect with them at all. I was also really confused about what was happening as well. I didn't know who was who. We were just chucked into it and it didn't do anything for me
July 14, 2020
Enchanting
Absolutely riveting! There is so much joy and laughter yet intrigue and of course shenanigans as Joe and Hazel fall, tumble and tilt fast forward into love! Talk about the worst start to a meeting Joe is coming from the princess bedroom after a night of bedsport when he sees Hazel!! Hazel is appalled and eyes this handsome rake with the right amount of embarrassment and curiosity because the princess looks like a cat with cream! Hazel thoughts continue back to Sir Joe but she is convinced he is a rake and not worth her time! Joe has been hit with a lightening boot and choice arrow! Hazel has been caught in a scandal not of her own making by a vengeful Lord who dislikes the word no! I am convinced the loathsome Lord will appear again this series! Get ready to laugh, stage coach robberies and precocious children in one of Mary's best yet!!!
Absolutely riveting! There is so much joy and laughter yet intrigue and of course shenanigans as Joe and Hazel fall, tumble and tilt fast forward into love! Talk about the worst start to a meeting Joe is coming from the princess bedroom after a night of bedsport when he sees Hazel!! Hazel is appalled and eyes this handsome rake with the right amount of embarrassment and curiosity because the princess looks like a cat with cream! Hazel thoughts continue back to Sir Joe but she is convinced he is a rake and not worth her time! Joe has been hit with a lightening boot and choice arrow! Hazel has been caught in a scandal not of her own making by a vengeful Lord who dislikes the word no! I am convinced the loathsome Lord will appear again this series! Get ready to laugh, stage coach robberies and precocious children in one of Mary's best yet!!!
May 27, 2022
I REALLY liked this book and the two main characters, especially Joe. I found it especially interesting that he was a rake but not one that had to be reformed or tamed (even though one character said that), more like he just enjoyed women and they enjoyed him and if he found his "lightning bolt" then that was it for him. I really enjoyed how we got to know Joe and I felt his behavior and thoughts and motivations were believable and endearing. I liked that Hazel was smart and somewhat independent but not annoyingly stubborn. I really enjoyed the way the two of them planned together and adapted to changing circumstances; however, it was kind of jarring to me that a diplomat would be so adaptable to schemes and disguises - it felt like that would have been more fitting if he had been a spy.
The first third of the book was a bit strange for me. It moved very quickly from one scene to the next - it didn't really create a sense of urgency or danger, it just moved from scene to scene and "obstacle" to "obstacle." Some of the scenarios were meant to be daring and funny and they were amusing but some were kind of ridiculous. Honestly, if I'd known some of these kinds of scenarios were in the book I might not have read it; HOWEVER, reading some of them was entertaining and kind of fit with the story (she was just shy of putting in too many "mad cap" adventures). So some will love these adventures and some will find them distracting and likely skim them. I did feel the romance at times between them moved very slowly (because they were too busy hatching plans) but sometimes that slow connection was good. One of my favorite scenes was when Hazel and Joe are alone at night at her governess' home - just how they connect with each other and we get to see more of them, especially Joe, was great (and they didn't even kiss but the tension and tenderness and attraction was still there).
Two things that bothered me and kept me from rating this higher were: the fact that Hazel couldn't believe that she was Joe's "lightning bolt." It made sense in the beginning but I got irritated when near the end she still doesn't believe him despite his words and actions. Just didn't make sense and was irritating. The second was Barden. His motives and his plans made sense at first but to go all over England chasing after her and the things he does later (don't want to spoil anything) don't make sense. Yes, she was pretty but she wasn't drop-dead gorgeous. And she wasn't rich or important. It just seems far-fetched that he would keep going so far to exact his revenge.
I also really liked Selim's and Emma's characters. I wish there had been more with them, but maybe in a future story?
I would recommend this book and if some of the sillier situations don't appeal, I still urge you to stick with it as it is a sweet story and Joe's character is really endearing (at least he was to me). I am hoping the romances of the other 3 ladies meets the bar this one set for me; we'll see.
The first third of the book was a bit strange for me. It moved very quickly from one scene to the next - it didn't really create a sense of urgency or danger, it just moved from scene to scene and "obstacle" to "obstacle." Some of the scenarios were meant to be daring and funny and they were amusing but some were kind of ridiculous. Honestly, if I'd known some of these kinds of scenarios were in the book I might not have read it; HOWEVER, reading some of them was entertaining and kind of fit with the story (she was just shy of putting in too many "mad cap" adventures). So some will love these adventures and some will find them distracting and likely skim them. I did feel the romance at times between them moved very slowly (because they were too busy hatching plans) but sometimes that slow connection was good. One of my favorite scenes was when Hazel and Joe are alone at night at her governess' home - just how they connect with each other and we get to see more of them, especially Joe, was great (and they didn't even kiss but the tension and tenderness and attraction was still there).
Two things that bothered me and kept me from rating this higher were: the fact that Hazel couldn't believe that she was Joe's "lightning bolt." It made sense in the beginning but I got irritated when near the end she still doesn't believe him despite his words and actions. Just didn't make sense and was irritating. The second was Barden. His motives and his plans made sense at first but to go all over England chasing after her and the things he does later (don't want to spoil anything) don't make sense. Yes, she was pretty but she wasn't drop-dead gorgeous. And she wasn't rich or important. It just seems far-fetched that he would keep going so far to exact his revenge.
I also really liked Selim's and Emma's characters. I wish there had been more with them, but maybe in a future story?
I would recommend this book and if some of the sillier situations don't appeal, I still urge you to stick with it as it is a sweet story and Joe's character is really endearing (at least he was to me). I am hoping the romances of the other 3 ladies meets the bar this one set for me; we'll see.
September 21, 2020
Full disclosure - I really love this author, and I have read almost everything she has written, I loved her Imperial season quartet, and her more recent her Blackhaven Brides series, and her Unmarriageable series. her early books were a little more detailed and very interesting, set in Vienna. The recent series have become a little shorter and more similar, but she is an excellent writer with a gift for making old tropes feel new and fresh. This is the start of a new series and it didn't disappoint me.
Four young girls, ladies in waiting to the Princess of Wales, are at the palace when a wild party starts, they are frightened and shelter in a room of the residence, only to discover the next day that her Highness was never there, and someone has leaked the juicy details, painting them as involved and ruined.
They have been set up to be ruined by the sinister and slightly mad Lord Barden, who has a plan for all four girls.
This story focuses on Hazel Curwen, who has no family in England, on her way to seek sanctuary with her former governess, Hazel misses the public coach and has no resources left. Sir Joseph Sayle, a diplomat and one of the Princesses former amours, turns up, and although Hazel sees him as an dissolute and amoral rake, she has no choice but to seek his assistance.
As they travel towards the former Miss Spriggs marital home, Sir Joe shows himself to be rather more charming and fun than Hazel had imagined, and incredibly capable, as they continue on their adventure they encounter a parcel of unruly but charming children, break a would be highwayman from the clutches of the local magistrate, and try and get to the bottom of who was trying to blacken Hazel and her friends reputations.
When Joe decides Hazel had better attend a house party his mother is throwing at his country estate in order to uncover the plot, they have to contend with lots more drama, including Joe's sisters, an abduction, being targeted by Joe's former friend and exiled Ottoman, Prince Selim, and lots more.
As they grow fond of each other, their awareness of each other turns to attraction and they fall in love, but will Hazel realise that she is more than good enough to be the wife of a diplomat.
I loved how strong and brave Hazel was, and how ready to change her opinion when presented with new information. Joe was also a good hearted rake who embraced his feelings and was determined to win his girl.
I love the way Mary writes, her heroines are always really likeable and resouceful, but she makes them feel different each time. She deftly handles the large cast of characters, and numerous scrapes with aplomb, and I look forward to the other stories in the series.
Utterly delightful. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.
Four young girls, ladies in waiting to the Princess of Wales, are at the palace when a wild party starts, they are frightened and shelter in a room of the residence, only to discover the next day that her Highness was never there, and someone has leaked the juicy details, painting them as involved and ruined.
They have been set up to be ruined by the sinister and slightly mad Lord Barden, who has a plan for all four girls.
This story focuses on Hazel Curwen, who has no family in England, on her way to seek sanctuary with her former governess, Hazel misses the public coach and has no resources left. Sir Joseph Sayle, a diplomat and one of the Princesses former amours, turns up, and although Hazel sees him as an dissolute and amoral rake, she has no choice but to seek his assistance.
As they travel towards the former Miss Spriggs marital home, Sir Joe shows himself to be rather more charming and fun than Hazel had imagined, and incredibly capable, as they continue on their adventure they encounter a parcel of unruly but charming children, break a would be highwayman from the clutches of the local magistrate, and try and get to the bottom of who was trying to blacken Hazel and her friends reputations.
When Joe decides Hazel had better attend a house party his mother is throwing at his country estate in order to uncover the plot, they have to contend with lots more drama, including Joe's sisters, an abduction, being targeted by Joe's former friend and exiled Ottoman, Prince Selim, and lots more.
As they grow fond of each other, their awareness of each other turns to attraction and they fall in love, but will Hazel realise that she is more than good enough to be the wife of a diplomat.
I loved how strong and brave Hazel was, and how ready to change her opinion when presented with new information. Joe was also a good hearted rake who embraced his feelings and was determined to win his girl.
I love the way Mary writes, her heroines are always really likeable and resouceful, but she makes them feel different each time. She deftly handles the large cast of characters, and numerous scrapes with aplomb, and I look forward to the other stories in the series.
Utterly delightful. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book, and all opinions are my own.
July 3, 2020
Emerald book reviews
Pursued by the Rake by Mary Lancaster
‘And yet still, he had touched no more than her hand, her wrist.
Dear God, to be closer to him now, feel his kisses on her mouth, the hardness of his body, naked and caressing...She could not control the tiny gasp.
They stood a yard away from her bedchamber door.
“Why,” he whispered, “do I always find it so hard to say goodnight to you?”’
This was such a cleverly mapped out, beautifully written, wonderfully executed love story. It was a delicious, sensual, slow-burning tale of second-chances, unlikely friendships, bravery, highway robberies, scandal and a touch of royal salaciousness to give it all a bit more bite.
I adored our heroine, Hazel. Although she started out this story fleeing, in peril, unsure and a little aggravated by her circumstances, she never let those negative emotions swamp her. She merely gathered her courage and set off on a different route. I loved her wit and intelligence, how she bantered and threw barbs at Joe. She wasn’t intimidated by him or her situation. It was wonderful to watch their reluctant friendship blossom and grow, to see the initial reactions and misconceptions fall by the wayside as they were forced into close proximity with each other. The slow-burn, stoke the embers and watch it flare kind of passion, is always a thousand times more thrilling, seductie and elevating than the love stories that rush everything, leaving readers feeling dissatisfied.
Joe was a truly sublime hero. He had that rakish air about him when we first encountered him but you just knew going in that there were as many layers to his personality as there was to Hazel’s. He was a little reckless, a bit of a mischievous hellion and a flirt to boot, but there was no mistaking his depth of loyalty, chivalry and adoration when it came to our intrepid female protagonist, Hazel.
Having two perfectly matched, exceptionally well written lead characters such as Hazel and Joe certainly brings the story to life in vivid technicolour. The descriptions were impeccable, the children adding humour and devilry, the dialogue sparkling and amusing. In a nutshell, Pursued By the Rake was an absolutely joyful and thoroughly entertaining madcap adventure, full of romance, comedy, bad guys, revenge, absurd jailbreak plans and an Ottoman prince.
‘Slowly, he raised one hand to his lips and kissed her fingers. Then he raised the other and turned it so that he could drop a kiss on the inside of her wrist. This time, his lips lingered, and a thrill seemed to run through her veins like fire.’
Pursued by the Rake by Mary Lancaster
‘And yet still, he had touched no more than her hand, her wrist.
Dear God, to be closer to him now, feel his kisses on her mouth, the hardness of his body, naked and caressing...She could not control the tiny gasp.
They stood a yard away from her bedchamber door.
“Why,” he whispered, “do I always find it so hard to say goodnight to you?”’
This was such a cleverly mapped out, beautifully written, wonderfully executed love story. It was a delicious, sensual, slow-burning tale of second-chances, unlikely friendships, bravery, highway robberies, scandal and a touch of royal salaciousness to give it all a bit more bite.
I adored our heroine, Hazel. Although she started out this story fleeing, in peril, unsure and a little aggravated by her circumstances, she never let those negative emotions swamp her. She merely gathered her courage and set off on a different route. I loved her wit and intelligence, how she bantered and threw barbs at Joe. She wasn’t intimidated by him or her situation. It was wonderful to watch their reluctant friendship blossom and grow, to see the initial reactions and misconceptions fall by the wayside as they were forced into close proximity with each other. The slow-burn, stoke the embers and watch it flare kind of passion, is always a thousand times more thrilling, seductie and elevating than the love stories that rush everything, leaving readers feeling dissatisfied.
Joe was a truly sublime hero. He had that rakish air about him when we first encountered him but you just knew going in that there were as many layers to his personality as there was to Hazel’s. He was a little reckless, a bit of a mischievous hellion and a flirt to boot, but there was no mistaking his depth of loyalty, chivalry and adoration when it came to our intrepid female protagonist, Hazel.
Having two perfectly matched, exceptionally well written lead characters such as Hazel and Joe certainly brings the story to life in vivid technicolour. The descriptions were impeccable, the children adding humour and devilry, the dialogue sparkling and amusing. In a nutshell, Pursued By the Rake was an absolutely joyful and thoroughly entertaining madcap adventure, full of romance, comedy, bad guys, revenge, absurd jailbreak plans and an Ottoman prince.
‘Slowly, he raised one hand to his lips and kissed her fingers. Then he raised the other and turned it so that he could drop a kiss on the inside of her wrist. This time, his lips lingered, and a thrill seemed to run through her veins like fire.’
July 5, 2020
Oh what a wonderful start to a new series !! This is a very different kind of regency romance.
It has lots going on from the start . Four of the Queens Lady in waiting are tricked to come to a house the Queen is suppose to be at. When they all met up they find there is a very wild sexy party going on . They assume the Queen is in her bedroom with a gentleman. Afraid to disturb her and make her mad they hid it the waiting room all night. At first light they find the Queen was never there;
All of their reputations are ruined. Some of the Ladies come from very good families. Dukes and Earl's. All the girls head for home till they can find out who tricked them and why.
Hazel Curwen is not from a wealthy family, her father is a Sea Captain, her mother is deceased, she has no brother's or sister's. Her only other family is a Grandmother who has taken off to Scotland.
Her plot couldn't get much worst, as she has no money also.
When she tries to escape using the boarding coach she runs into the one person she hoped never to see again.... One Sir Joseph Sayle, an agent for the foreign office.
Joseph is a rake that Hazel feels took advantage of the Princess she works for. She saw him coming out of the Princess room early one morning. He was arrogance and said some very smug thing to her.
Now she is in real trouble, as she has missed the coach, has no money for other, doesn't know who is out to ruin her, or when everyone in London will know about the house party. Not knowing what else to do she lets Joe take her to her governess. She is unsure if this is a good idea as he has been up all night carousing and is drunk.
As she and Joe set out to get her to her former governess's and find out who caused her problems.
Joe also has someone following him and doesn't know if they are friend or foe.
With the help of some really cute and sweet children all five of them !! Help from family
and a trained horse. This story has it all fun, laughter , tears, fears of both the H & H.
Mix all that up with the attraction growing slowly but steady thru out the story... Hazel will learn not to believe first impressions. The ton believes the papers, and she is finding out how wrong
she was about Joe. He is turning out to be relaxed good company,amusing, kind and a flirt too.
I can't wait to see if the rest of this series is as good. Be sure to get your copy.
There is even more going on but I don't want to ruin the story for you.
I received and ARC from the author and am giving my honesty opinion voluntarily.
It has lots going on from the start . Four of the Queens Lady in waiting are tricked to come to a house the Queen is suppose to be at. When they all met up they find there is a very wild sexy party going on . They assume the Queen is in her bedroom with a gentleman. Afraid to disturb her and make her mad they hid it the waiting room all night. At first light they find the Queen was never there;
All of their reputations are ruined. Some of the Ladies come from very good families. Dukes and Earl's. All the girls head for home till they can find out who tricked them and why.
Hazel Curwen is not from a wealthy family, her father is a Sea Captain, her mother is deceased, she has no brother's or sister's. Her only other family is a Grandmother who has taken off to Scotland.
Her plot couldn't get much worst, as she has no money also.
When she tries to escape using the boarding coach she runs into the one person she hoped never to see again.... One Sir Joseph Sayle, an agent for the foreign office.
Joseph is a rake that Hazel feels took advantage of the Princess she works for. She saw him coming out of the Princess room early one morning. He was arrogance and said some very smug thing to her.
Now she is in real trouble, as she has missed the coach, has no money for other, doesn't know who is out to ruin her, or when everyone in London will know about the house party. Not knowing what else to do she lets Joe take her to her governess. She is unsure if this is a good idea as he has been up all night carousing and is drunk.
As she and Joe set out to get her to her former governess's and find out who caused her problems.
Joe also has someone following him and doesn't know if they are friend or foe.
With the help of some really cute and sweet children all five of them !! Help from family
and a trained horse. This story has it all fun, laughter , tears, fears of both the H & H.
Mix all that up with the attraction growing slowly but steady thru out the story... Hazel will learn not to believe first impressions. The ton believes the papers, and she is finding out how wrong
she was about Joe. He is turning out to be relaxed good company,amusing, kind and a flirt too.
I can't wait to see if the rest of this series is as good. Be sure to get your copy.
There is even more going on but I don't want to ruin the story for you.
I received and ARC from the author and am giving my honesty opinion voluntarily.
July 9, 2020
Pursued by the Rake by Mary Lancaster is the first in a new series; the premise being that an underhanded lord wishes to ruin four young ladies who are ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales. To do this he plans an "orgy" at the princess' palace and summons the four young ladies, ostensibly to wait upon the princess. When the four arrive, they become quickly aware that things are not as they should be so t hey hurried to the princess' chambers, only to wait all night to be assigned duties. They knew better than to enter he bedchamber without being invited. When they discover the princess is not there and has not been, they rush to their homes to avoid anyone finding out and creating a scandal. Miss Hazel Curwen has nowhere to go. Her father, a sea captain, has left for a voyage and her grandmother has returned to Scotland. She realizes her only option was her former governess, now married and living in the country east of London so she travels to the Blue Board from whence she can travel on the mail coach to the Armitage home. While she is waiting, she spies a "scandal" sheet which carries a story about last evening's shenanigans and mentions the young woman, not by name, but using initials. She is ruined. She misses the coach and runs into Sir Joseph Sayle, a man she know from watching him exit the princess' bedroom. He volunteers to take her where she needs to go. As there is not another coach that day, she accepts.
Hazel is a bright and courageous young woman who has successfully managed to be acceptable to the ton, despite being only marginally born into it. She is responsible and level-headed. As such, the next several weeks severely test her mettle. There are love affairs, sword fights, people from the past, and the wicked man who set this all up. All have to be dealt with at the same time maintaining a semblance of respectability. This is a complicated plot with lots of cast members and some truly memorable twists and turns. It tests Hazel beyond what she though she could endure, including Sir Joseph's plan to regain her reputation. It's fun; it's challenging; and it becomes a happily-ever-after for her, but what about her friends? I enjoyed it. You will, too. I recommend Pursued by the Rake.
I was invited to read an ARC of Pursued by the Rake by Dragonblade, through Netgalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #pursuedbytherake
Hazel is a bright and courageous young woman who has successfully managed to be acceptable to the ton, despite being only marginally born into it. She is responsible and level-headed. As such, the next several weeks severely test her mettle. There are love affairs, sword fights, people from the past, and the wicked man who set this all up. All have to be dealt with at the same time maintaining a semblance of respectability. This is a complicated plot with lots of cast members and some truly memorable twists and turns. It tests Hazel beyond what she though she could endure, including Sir Joseph's plan to regain her reputation. It's fun; it's challenging; and it becomes a happily-ever-after for her, but what about her friends? I enjoyed it. You will, too. I recommend Pursued by the Rake.
I was invited to read an ARC of Pursued by the Rake by Dragonblade, through Netgalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #pursuedbytherake
October 9, 2021
Pursued by the Rake is book one of Mary Lancaster’s — Season of Scandal series. As the blurb states this series is centered around Four innocent young ladies-in-waiting to the Princess of Wales spend the night sheltering from a wild party in her residence – only to discover in the morning that Her Highness was never there. And the news is already out. In this book the featured “ruined” lady is Miss Hazel Curwen and the infamous rake who pursues her is Sir Joseph Sayle. Although these two have “met” in previous situations, both times Hazel was not impressed by Joseph, the adventure they embark upon during this story is one with a completely different ending.
This story has a mixture of tropes including forced proximity, redemption of the rogue, and of course a villain in the background stirring up trouble. After Hazel finds herself ruined, with no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again. You guessed it - Sir Joseph Sayle to the rescue!
The attraction between these two is pretty instantaneous and the situations they find themselves in require the reader to suspend their disbelief and understand that no situation is off limits. In-fact, there were quite a few fantastical situations where I found myself rolling my eyes or having to stop the book for a little bit (hence why I read two other books while trying to get through this story). I was never quite sure what these two would find themselves doing during the story and before I knew it they are declaring their love for each other. Needless to say the story lacked the slow burn and unresolved sexual tension that I enjoy in a romance.
The conflict of the story was also something I tend to dislike and that is self-doubt and a heroine who runs away instead of actually talking over her doubts. In addition, we have a devious third party in the story who is pulling strings in the background with the goal of leaving Hazel ruined and alone.
As mentioned earlier these two do get their happy ending and there was a epilogue to show the reader a glimpse of their future. I am not sure if these characters will be in subsequent stories of the series, I believe each book will feature one of the four ladies that were “ruined” together by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Overall 2.5 Stars ⭐️ | 2.5 Flames 🔥
This story has a mixture of tropes including forced proximity, redemption of the rogue, and of course a villain in the background stirring up trouble. After Hazel finds herself ruined, with no money, no near family, and the stagecoach to her old governess’s home vanishing into the distance, she is forced to accept the help of the one man she never wished to set eyes on again. You guessed it - Sir Joseph Sayle to the rescue!
The attraction between these two is pretty instantaneous and the situations they find themselves in require the reader to suspend their disbelief and understand that no situation is off limits. In-fact, there were quite a few fantastical situations where I found myself rolling my eyes or having to stop the book for a little bit (hence why I read two other books while trying to get through this story). I was never quite sure what these two would find themselves doing during the story and before I knew it they are declaring their love for each other. Needless to say the story lacked the slow burn and unresolved sexual tension that I enjoy in a romance.
The conflict of the story was also something I tend to dislike and that is self-doubt and a heroine who runs away instead of actually talking over her doubts. In addition, we have a devious third party in the story who is pulling strings in the background with the goal of leaving Hazel ruined and alone.
As mentioned earlier these two do get their happy ending and there was a epilogue to show the reader a glimpse of their future. I am not sure if these characters will be in subsequent stories of the series, I believe each book will feature one of the four ladies that were “ruined” together by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Overall 2.5 Stars ⭐️ | 2.5 Flames 🔥
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