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League of Scoundrels #1
A Rogue to Remember
In this irresistible historical romance, a seasoned spy sets out to rescue the childhood friend he once loved from a reputation-destroying rumor—only to discover that she is actually the source.
After enduring five interminable seasons, Lottie Carlisle has had enough of shallow London society, her boring little life, and her uncle Alfred's meddling. When he demands she accept a proposal by the end of next season or else he will choose a husband for her, she devises a plan: create a scandal shocking enough to make her unmarriageable and spend her spinsterhood far enough away in the countryside where no one will ever recognize her.
Alec Gresham hasn't seen Lottie since he left his childhood friend without a word five years ago. So he's not surprised to find her furious when he appears on her doorstep. Especially bearing the news he brings: her uncle is dying, her blasted reputation is still intact, and Lottie must return home. As they make the journey back to her family estate, it becomes increasingly clear that the last five years hasn't erased their history, nor their explosive chemistry. Can Lottie look past her old heartache and trust Alec, or will his secrets doom their relationship once again?
After enduring five interminable seasons, Lottie Carlisle has had enough of shallow London society, her boring little life, and her uncle Alfred's meddling. When he demands she accept a proposal by the end of next season or else he will choose a husband for her, she devises a plan: create a scandal shocking enough to make her unmarriageable and spend her spinsterhood far enough away in the countryside where no one will ever recognize her.
Alec Gresham hasn't seen Lottie since he left his childhood friend without a word five years ago. So he's not surprised to find her furious when he appears on her doorstep. Especially bearing the news he brings: her uncle is dying, her blasted reputation is still intact, and Lottie must return home. As they make the journey back to her family estate, it becomes increasingly clear that the last five years hasn't erased their history, nor their explosive chemistry. Can Lottie look past her old heartache and trust Alec, or will his secrets doom their relationship once again?
313 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 9, 2021
66 people are currently reading
2981 people want to read
About the author
Emily Sullivan
7 books320 followersEmily Sullivan is an award-winning author of historical romance and mysteries set in the late Victorian period. Her books have received multiple starred reviews from trade journals including Publishers Weekly and Booklist, and have been praised in publications such as Entertainment Weekly, Buzzfeed, Parade, Self, and Bookpage.
She lives in New England with her family, where she enjoys reading about history and writing about rebellious women.
She lives in New England with her family, where she enjoys reading about history and writing about rebellious women.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 324 reviews
January 3, 2021
OH MY GAWD I AM NOT OKAY THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD. Have you ever wanted the intrigue and espionage of Hello Stranger to have a love child with unapologetic feminism of Loretta Chase mixed with the cleverness of Sarah MacLean? Then go preorder this book right now. I’ll wait. Now that you’re back, I can’t stress enough how much I loved this story. HOLY SHIT ITS SO GOOD. It’s set in 1897 Italy, which automatically gives it an atmospheric uniqueness but it also throws in a road-trip, childhood friends, second chance, hella 🌲pining 🌲hero and nearly melted my brain out of my ears. My girl Lottie, witty, brilliant, stubborn bad bitch she is, staged her own ruination to runaway from the life that was slowly choking her. Enter Alec, hot af spy who left childhood BFF Lottie without a damn WORD five years prior, and he’s now tasked with getting her home to England. Y’all, the chemistry. I absolutely could not handle it. From the first moment these two reunite, it absolutely sizzles and pines and aches and there were times I sat there dumbly with my kindle on my lap in awe of Sullivan's talent.
This is a remarkable read with wit, intrigue, heartache, and breathtaking tenderness.
This is a remarkable read with wit, intrigue, heartache, and breathtaking tenderness.
April 27, 2022
This was such a cute historical romance! I didn't love it as much as I was expecting to, but it was definitely a fun and unique historical. Our heroine lives in Italy and has decided to create a shocking scandal about herself in order to get out of marrying someone she doesn't want to marry. A man she was in love with when she was young is tasked to get her from Italy and bring her home. He happens to be a spy who works for her uncle. It was so cute how they went around Italy together and fell in love again and had to confront what went wrong in the past. Some parts were slow, so I didn't completely fall in love with the story. I did enjoy how there was a bit of suspense near the end and how a lot of the plot had them traveling with the "only one bed trope." I enjoyed how unique this was taking place in Italy with a spy hero and how it was a second chance romance! I'm excited to try out more from this author!
April 18, 2021
I've given this a very cautious B- at AAR, 3.5 stars
This historical romance début from Emily Sullivan shows promise, but despite its good points (likeable characters with great chemistry and well-written love scenes) the book is ultimately derailed by a lack of focus and clear direction, uneven pacing, nonsensical plot points and some poor editing. That the author’s ability to actually write shines through is what earns A Rogue to Remember book a (very) cautious recommendation – she’s worth checking out, because if those problems can be eliminated, then she could very well become an author to watch.
At twenty-four, Lottie Carlisle has had enough of London Seasons and the marriage mart. After causing a scandal when she publicly rejected the suitor her uncle favoured (the heir to an almost bankrupt earldom who wanted her fortune), she decided enough was enough and set out to ruin her reputation so as to put herself beyond the pale. Sent out of the country on a trip to Italy with a battleaxe of a chaperone – and also with a warning from her uncle that she’ll be married to a man of his choosing before the year is out – she gives the chaperone the slip and leaves behind a note saying (or strongly implying) that she’s run off with her Italian lover. She hasn’t, of course; instead, she poses as a widow and heads for the cottage in the small Tuscan village where her late parents had spent their honeymoon. She’s leased it for a year and intends to live a quiet but independent life there. (The fact she’s planned to live in Italy without being able to speak more than a few words of Italian bugged me right off the bat.)
Lottie has managed this quiet independent existence for a few months when, out of the blue, she receives a visit from someone she hasn’t seen in years – Alec Gresham, the boy she’d grown up with, and the young man who’d broken her heart when he left England without a word five years earlier. Alec was her uncle’s ward, and was groomed by him for a career as a spy (Lottie’s uncle Sir Alfred appears to be a mild-mannered eccentric, but is actually a ruthless government spymaster) – even though Alec’s real interest was ancient history and he wanted to pursue an academic life. Alec and Lottie were both orphans and they had something of an idyllic childhood, growing together as they grew up, and slowly falling in love. But when Alec asked for permission to marry Lottie, Sir Alfred refused, telling Alec he’d ruin his life if he didn’t leave the country immediately and start working as one of his agents. Between the scandal of his birth and his complete lack of funds, Alec was convinced he could never give Lottie the life she deserved and scurried off with his tail between his legs.
Now, five years later, Alec has been sent to bring Lottie back to England because her uncle is seriously ill and probably dying. Lottie isn’t happy to see him (even as she can’t deny that even after five years and serious heartbreak she’s still attracted to him) and is even less so to hear that the news of her flight with her imaginary lover has been hushed up and her reputation is still more or less intact. After many argumentative exchanges (all dripping with lust and longing), Lottie agrees to return on condition they stop off in Venice.
The next part of the story is the road-trip (and yes, there’s Only One Bed, accidental (post-bathing) ogling and lots of lusty imaginings – oh, and that one time Lottie can see “the sizeable bulge at the front of his trousers” even though Alec has his back to her. #editingfail.) But in general, it’s nicely done with some good descriptive prose, and I appreciated the non-English setting. When Lottie and Alec get to Venice, the author introduces one of Alec’s colleagues for no good reason (other than to signal ‘next hero’, I presume) together with a spy-plot in which Alec is ordered to cozy up to a French widow with connections to a German arms dealer. There’s a fight to the death (well, almost) and a daring escape, but this subplot doesn’t really go anywhere, and while I suppose it’s intended to show us exactly why Alec is The Best Spy Evah (according to Sir Alfred, he has “the best instincts I’ve ever seen”) – it actually makes him seem rather inept. And the final chapters, after Lottie returns to England, veer off into melodrama territory, with a dastardly plot to force Lottie into marriage and the introduction of a traitor who has been selling information to the enemy, a last-minute plotline that comes and goes so quickly it might as well have not been there at all.
Lottie and Alec are likeable individually and make a good couple, and the author writes their yearning for each other extremely well. The sexual tension between them is palpable, and the childhood friendship, while only glimpsed a handful of times comes across strongly. I liked Lottie’s spirit and the way she challenges Alec without being one of those ‘look at how unconventional I am!’ heroines, and while Alec frustrated me at times, he’s a sexy, brooding hero (hello, hot history professor!), a decent man trying to do the right thing by the woman he loves.
I realise I’ve said quite a few negative things here, so you’re probably wondering why I’m giving this book a low-level recommendation. Well… if you strip away the extraneous spy plot, there’s a decent romance here. The pacing is uneven – the first half of the book is set-up and there’s too much introspection and not enough interaction – and the aforementioned nonsensical plot points and inconsistencies were annoying. But it’s clear that Emily Sullivan can write and knows how to tell a story; what she needs to do now is work on honing that skill to sharpen her focus on the romance, incorporate fewer plotlines and weed out those inconsistencies I’ve mentioned. A Rogue to Remember is a promising début despite its flaws, and I hope Ms. Sullivan is given the time and space to further develop her talent as a writer.
This historical romance début from Emily Sullivan shows promise, but despite its good points (likeable characters with great chemistry and well-written love scenes) the book is ultimately derailed by a lack of focus and clear direction, uneven pacing, nonsensical plot points and some poor editing. That the author’s ability to actually write shines through is what earns A Rogue to Remember book a (very) cautious recommendation – she’s worth checking out, because if those problems can be eliminated, then she could very well become an author to watch.
At twenty-four, Lottie Carlisle has had enough of London Seasons and the marriage mart. After causing a scandal when she publicly rejected the suitor her uncle favoured (the heir to an almost bankrupt earldom who wanted her fortune), she decided enough was enough and set out to ruin her reputation so as to put herself beyond the pale. Sent out of the country on a trip to Italy with a battleaxe of a chaperone – and also with a warning from her uncle that she’ll be married to a man of his choosing before the year is out – she gives the chaperone the slip and leaves behind a note saying (or strongly implying) that she’s run off with her Italian lover. She hasn’t, of course; instead, she poses as a widow and heads for the cottage in the small Tuscan village where her late parents had spent their honeymoon. She’s leased it for a year and intends to live a quiet but independent life there. (The fact she’s planned to live in Italy without being able to speak more than a few words of Italian bugged me right off the bat.)
Lottie has managed this quiet independent existence for a few months when, out of the blue, she receives a visit from someone she hasn’t seen in years – Alec Gresham, the boy she’d grown up with, and the young man who’d broken her heart when he left England without a word five years earlier. Alec was her uncle’s ward, and was groomed by him for a career as a spy (Lottie’s uncle Sir Alfred appears to be a mild-mannered eccentric, but is actually a ruthless government spymaster) – even though Alec’s real interest was ancient history and he wanted to pursue an academic life. Alec and Lottie were both orphans and they had something of an idyllic childhood, growing together as they grew up, and slowly falling in love. But when Alec asked for permission to marry Lottie, Sir Alfred refused, telling Alec he’d ruin his life if he didn’t leave the country immediately and start working as one of his agents. Between the scandal of his birth and his complete lack of funds, Alec was convinced he could never give Lottie the life she deserved and scurried off with his tail between his legs.
Now, five years later, Alec has been sent to bring Lottie back to England because her uncle is seriously ill and probably dying. Lottie isn’t happy to see him (even as she can’t deny that even after five years and serious heartbreak she’s still attracted to him) and is even less so to hear that the news of her flight with her imaginary lover has been hushed up and her reputation is still more or less intact. After many argumentative exchanges (all dripping with lust and longing), Lottie agrees to return on condition they stop off in Venice.
The next part of the story is the road-trip (and yes, there’s Only One Bed, accidental (post-bathing) ogling and lots of lusty imaginings – oh, and that one time Lottie can see “the sizeable bulge at the front of his trousers” even though Alec has his back to her. #editingfail.) But in general, it’s nicely done with some good descriptive prose, and I appreciated the non-English setting. When Lottie and Alec get to Venice, the author introduces one of Alec’s colleagues for no good reason (other than to signal ‘next hero’, I presume) together with a spy-plot in which Alec is ordered to cozy up to a French widow with connections to a German arms dealer. There’s a fight to the death (well, almost) and a daring escape, but this subplot doesn’t really go anywhere, and while I suppose it’s intended to show us exactly why Alec is The Best Spy Evah (according to Sir Alfred, he has “the best instincts I’ve ever seen”) – it actually makes him seem rather inept. And the final chapters, after Lottie returns to England, veer off into melodrama territory, with a dastardly plot to force Lottie into marriage and the introduction of a traitor who has been selling information to the enemy, a last-minute plotline that comes and goes so quickly it might as well have not been there at all.
Lottie and Alec are likeable individually and make a good couple, and the author writes their yearning for each other extremely well. The sexual tension between them is palpable, and the childhood friendship, while only glimpsed a handful of times comes across strongly. I liked Lottie’s spirit and the way she challenges Alec without being one of those ‘look at how unconventional I am!’ heroines, and while Alec frustrated me at times, he’s a sexy, brooding hero (hello, hot history professor!), a decent man trying to do the right thing by the woman he loves.
I realise I’ve said quite a few negative things here, so you’re probably wondering why I’m giving this book a low-level recommendation. Well… if you strip away the extraneous spy plot, there’s a decent romance here. The pacing is uneven – the first half of the book is set-up and there’s too much introspection and not enough interaction – and the aforementioned nonsensical plot points and inconsistencies were annoying. But it’s clear that Emily Sullivan can write and knows how to tell a story; what she needs to do now is work on honing that skill to sharpen her focus on the romance, incorporate fewer plotlines and weed out those inconsistencies I’ve mentioned. A Rogue to Remember is a promising début despite its flaws, and I hope Ms. Sullivan is given the time and space to further develop her talent as a writer.
February 13, 2021
The swoon! A Rogue to Remember is one of those “my cheeks hurt from all the smiling” type of swoon reads. The mutual pining & childhood history between these two characters, omg it was delicious, sweet, steamy and just oh-so-romantic. If no one listens to any other review I give this year, listen to this one & go pre-order this book! 😍
This story is set in 1897 and takes place mostly in Italy (which I loved reading a HR set in somewhere besides England). Charlotte “Lottie” Carlisle was born into one of the finest families in England and when she became an orphan at a young age, her Uncle Alfred (who is also a legendary spy for the Crown) took her in. Uncle Alfred had another ward as well, Alec, and he & Lottie bonded over an idyllic childhood of adventures together. The self-proclaimed “misfits” grew close over the years until they got ripped apart the night of her debutante ball. Now 5 years have passed and Lottie, who was tired of the shallow & stifling existence society demanded of her, ran away to a small town in Italy with the hopes that the scandal would ruin her. Her Uncle sends Alec, who followed in his footsteps and is now an agent for the crown, after Lottie to bring her back home. But when the Alec & Lottie meet again...sparks definitely re-ignite, especially when Alec tells her they need to pretend to be husband & wife as they travel together.
So I loved this second-chance romance so much! A little bit of intrigue, lots of adventure, traveling together with lots of “only 1 bed”. The writing is amazing and the romance was just everything! The low-key angst & pining of how perfect Lottie and Alec are together was so good, and the steamy times....I mean that mirror scene. 🔥 This book was just amazing and definitely a favorite of the year. I cannot wait for more from this author in the future!
Thank you to the publisher (Forever) for an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts & review.
This story is set in 1897 and takes place mostly in Italy (which I loved reading a HR set in somewhere besides England). Charlotte “Lottie” Carlisle was born into one of the finest families in England and when she became an orphan at a young age, her Uncle Alfred (who is also a legendary spy for the Crown) took her in. Uncle Alfred had another ward as well, Alec, and he & Lottie bonded over an idyllic childhood of adventures together. The self-proclaimed “misfits” grew close over the years until they got ripped apart the night of her debutante ball. Now 5 years have passed and Lottie, who was tired of the shallow & stifling existence society demanded of her, ran away to a small town in Italy with the hopes that the scandal would ruin her. Her Uncle sends Alec, who followed in his footsteps and is now an agent for the crown, after Lottie to bring her back home. But when the Alec & Lottie meet again...sparks definitely re-ignite, especially when Alec tells her they need to pretend to be husband & wife as they travel together.
So I loved this second-chance romance so much! A little bit of intrigue, lots of adventure, traveling together with lots of “only 1 bed”. The writing is amazing and the romance was just everything! The low-key angst & pining of how perfect Lottie and Alec are together was so good, and the steamy times....I mean that mirror scene. 🔥 This book was just amazing and definitely a favorite of the year. I cannot wait for more from this author in the future!
Thank you to the publisher (Forever) for an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts & review.
September 12, 2022
I absolutely loved the first quarter or so of this book. The two MC’s were intriguing and had amazing chemistry, and the setting in the Italian countryside was enchanting and unique. Early on, I was sure I would give this book at least 4 stars, hopefully more, but unfortunately as the story continued I felt more and more whiplashed and found I didn’t mesh with the author’s choices for the plot.
As I mentioned, I initially really enjoyed the characters. Unwilling London heiress Lottie fled to Italy to avoid a forced marriage, and from the get-go she proved to be tenacious and cunning, yet kind, with a wonderful rebellious side. It was immediately clear she and our hero were a perfect match when tragic, fragile Alec, a spy working for her uncle in service to the Crown, arrived to bring her back to England. They shared incredible chemistry from chapter one, and with the fake marriage ploy the two of them put in place, the story seemed set up to be a never-ending cycle of the much-loved “only one bed” trope. On top of that, it also promised to take Lottie and Alec traipsing through the Italian countryside all the way to Venice, with Alec playing tour guide along the way and fighting not to give in to desire. His history with Lottie was sweet, as Emily Sullivan did an excellent job integrating the childhood-friends-to-lovers trope to establish how much the two still cared for one another. Their meet-cute included some amusing banter, and the sexual tension was so intense that I couldn’t wait to see how Sullivan would continue to build it throughout the book. All in all, the beginning of this book was amazingly set up, and therefore it had me so excited to read the rest. I had to stop myself from staying up too late once I started; it was just that good.
Sadly, around the time Lottie and Alec ran into the first “only one bed” scenario, things started to go downhill. It felt like the tension and desire lessened between them as they got caught up in their heads about their feelings for each other and what they should or should not do. For two people who grew up together, Lottie and Alec were not very good at communicating with each other, despite their clear bond. Instead of heightening the stakes, this made it feel as if most of their problems could have been solved if they talked openly with one another. Seeing them dance around their feelings and miss opportunities to explain their past actions ultimately became more frustrating than compelling.
In addition, the plot veered away from an Italian-voyage-will-they/won’t-they story and instead became inundated with spy drama and family turmoil. When they arrive in Venice, Alec finds he must complete some spy work at a party, and he begrudgingly takes Lottie along. It felt a bit forced and ultimately did not add much to the plot, especially because the end of the book focused more around Lottie’s uncle forcing her to marry than it did espionage. All of the elements did not weave together well and, again, I was disappointed to see the tension-filled journey across Italy fade into the background.
I settled on a 3 star rating because I truly enjoyed parts of this book, in particular the beginning, and Emily Sullivan is a talented writer. This is a solid debut, though I’m not sure I’ll continue this series given that Alec’s spy friend, Rafe, is the main character in book #2. He played a small role in this book, and regretfully I did not like him at all. That being said, I will definitely be on the lookout for future books by Sullivan and look forward to following her writing career.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
As I mentioned, I initially really enjoyed the characters. Unwilling London heiress Lottie fled to Italy to avoid a forced marriage, and from the get-go she proved to be tenacious and cunning, yet kind, with a wonderful rebellious side. It was immediately clear she and our hero were a perfect match when tragic, fragile Alec, a spy working for her uncle in service to the Crown, arrived to bring her back to England. They shared incredible chemistry from chapter one, and with the fake marriage ploy the two of them put in place, the story seemed set up to be a never-ending cycle of the much-loved “only one bed” trope. On top of that, it also promised to take Lottie and Alec traipsing through the Italian countryside all the way to Venice, with Alec playing tour guide along the way and fighting not to give in to desire. His history with Lottie was sweet, as Emily Sullivan did an excellent job integrating the childhood-friends-to-lovers trope to establish how much the two still cared for one another. Their meet-cute included some amusing banter, and the sexual tension was so intense that I couldn’t wait to see how Sullivan would continue to build it throughout the book. All in all, the beginning of this book was amazingly set up, and therefore it had me so excited to read the rest. I had to stop myself from staying up too late once I started; it was just that good.
Sadly, around the time Lottie and Alec ran into the first “only one bed” scenario, things started to go downhill. It felt like the tension and desire lessened between them as they got caught up in their heads about their feelings for each other and what they should or should not do. For two people who grew up together, Lottie and Alec were not very good at communicating with each other, despite their clear bond. Instead of heightening the stakes, this made it feel as if most of their problems could have been solved if they talked openly with one another. Seeing them dance around their feelings and miss opportunities to explain their past actions ultimately became more frustrating than compelling.
In addition, the plot veered away from an Italian-voyage-will-they/won’t-they story and instead became inundated with spy drama and family turmoil. When they arrive in Venice, Alec finds he must complete some spy work at a party, and he begrudgingly takes Lottie along. It felt a bit forced and ultimately did not add much to the plot, especially because the end of the book focused more around Lottie’s uncle forcing her to marry than it did espionage. All of the elements did not weave together well and, again, I was disappointed to see the tension-filled journey across Italy fade into the background.
I settled on a 3 star rating because I truly enjoyed parts of this book, in particular the beginning, and Emily Sullivan is a talented writer. This is a solid debut, though I’m not sure I’ll continue this series given that Alec’s spy friend, Rafe, is the main character in book #2. He played a small role in this book, and regretfully I did not like him at all. That being said, I will definitely be on the lookout for future books by Sullivan and look forward to following her writing career.
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 14, 2021
Thanks to @readforeverpub & Netgalley for the complimentary ARC. All opinions provided my own.
@romance.in.the.wild 's glowing review of Emily Sullivan’s A Rogue to Remember made me request it right away & let me tell you that I did not regret it. This stunning debut is so emotionally rich, the setting is sumptuous, the way it kept me on a knife’s edge until it finally tumbled into a HEA was divine.
It’s lovely.
Set largely in 1897 Italy, ARTR tells the second chance story of Lottie Carlisle & Alec Gresham, who both grew up with Lottie’s political mastermind uncle as guardian. Very close as children, they had one magical night where it seemed their relationship would become romantic & then Alec left abruptly without word.
Five years later, Alec, an agent of the crown, has come to Italy to bring the wealthy Lottie back to England before she succeeds in deliberately ruining herself. On their journey home they must wrestle with the weight of their past, shared & not, &, among other things, Alec must decide if he’s willing to take what Lottie would offer.
I’m so excited about Emily Sullivan’s talent, about these characters she’s written & how beautifully she writes their journey. On top of the aforementioned emotional mastery on display here, this book offers stellar sex scenes including one in front of a mirror 🥵 & I think that’s all I need to say about that.
I did think that one aspect of the plot could have been a little tighter but wow, what a book!
5 ⭐️. A Rogue to Remember is available on 03/09/21.
@romance.in.the.wild 's glowing review of Emily Sullivan’s A Rogue to Remember made me request it right away & let me tell you that I did not regret it. This stunning debut is so emotionally rich, the setting is sumptuous, the way it kept me on a knife’s edge until it finally tumbled into a HEA was divine.
It’s lovely.
Set largely in 1897 Italy, ARTR tells the second chance story of Lottie Carlisle & Alec Gresham, who both grew up with Lottie’s political mastermind uncle as guardian. Very close as children, they had one magical night where it seemed their relationship would become romantic & then Alec left abruptly without word.
Five years later, Alec, an agent of the crown, has come to Italy to bring the wealthy Lottie back to England before she succeeds in deliberately ruining herself. On their journey home they must wrestle with the weight of their past, shared & not, &, among other things, Alec must decide if he’s willing to take what Lottie would offer.
I’m so excited about Emily Sullivan’s talent, about these characters she’s written & how beautifully she writes their journey. On top of the aforementioned emotional mastery on display here, this book offers stellar sex scenes including one in front of a mirror 🥵 & I think that’s all I need to say about that.
I did think that one aspect of the plot could have been a little tighter but wow, what a book!
5 ⭐️. A Rogue to Remember is available on 03/09/21.
July 6, 2021
A Rogue to Remember is the debut book from Emily Sullivan, and though it had some interesting moments, I found it mostly hard to believe and a bit underwhelming.
A second-chance romance can be something really special if it's done right (emphasis on the done right), and I was hopeful for this book's premise. However, I started the book rolling my eyes at the white woman with bright red hair, who knows no Italian, running away to the Italian countryside and expecting not to be noticed. She was a bit TSTL, right off the bat.
The book lost me with it's myriad of miscommunications and flat, one-note characters. The plot got a little spicy and twisting at times, but I never got excited by the characters and their supposed romance.
A miss for me.
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A second-chance romance can be something really special if it's done right (emphasis on the done right), and I was hopeful for this book's premise. However, I started the book rolling my eyes at the white woman with bright red hair, who knows no Italian, running away to the Italian countryside and expecting not to be noticed. She was a bit TSTL, right off the bat.
The book lost me with it's myriad of miscommunications and flat, one-note characters. The plot got a little spicy and twisting at times, but I never got excited by the characters and their supposed romance.
A miss for me.
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March 16, 2021
Seasoned spy Alec is sent to bring his childhood friend, the woman he's always yearned for, home after she runs away to Italy. Their road trip takes them from a small village to Venice, and eventually back to England.
I loved this debut so very much. The cover doesn't yell 1897 to me but this is one of my fav historical time periods to read romances in right now. I loved seeing this former friends snipe at each other and be oh so horny once Alec picks Lottie up in the small Italian town she's hiding out in, and him charming everyone and making them believe they are honeymooners to protect her reputation.
This was extremely horny and sexy. I wasn't quite sold on the Uncle who forced them apart when they were young, and who Alex felt indebted to enough to give up Lottie based on his secret shame (or them forgiving him at the end), but overall this was such a fun read.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC.
CW: parental death (in the past, lingering grief issues), death of a family member (on page), fighting, sexual assault (heroine is forcibly kissed and it is implied the man will be back to rape her), imprisonment of heroine, threat of forced marriage/rape.
I loved this debut so very much. The cover doesn't yell 1897 to me but this is one of my fav historical time periods to read romances in right now. I loved seeing this former friends snipe at each other and be oh so horny once Alec picks Lottie up in the small Italian town she's hiding out in, and him charming everyone and making them believe they are honeymooners to protect her reputation.
This was extremely horny and sexy. I wasn't quite sold on the Uncle who forced them apart when they were young, and who Alex felt indebted to enough to give up Lottie based on his secret shame (or them forgiving him at the end), but overall this was such a fun read.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC.
CW: parental death (in the past, lingering grief issues), death of a family member (on page), fighting, sexual assault (heroine is forcibly kissed and it is implied the man will be back to rape her), imprisonment of heroine, threat of forced marriage/rape.
March 15, 2021
4.5 stars for this great debut from Emily Sullivan! A Rogue to Remember matches up a spy and his childhood friend. Five years ago Alec left Lottie the day after her coming out ball - and he hasn't written since. This is an angsty second chance romance. Their earlier relationship is shown through flashbacks which lend poignancy to their interactions in the current-day portion of the plot. We are suckers for academic/archaeologist spies and the women who love them (The Falcon at the Portal/He Shall Thunder in the Sky, Sherry Thomas's Lady Sherlock, Your Scandalous Ways anyone?) and this delivers. We also love women who know what they want and then ask for it, and who take their own destinies in their hands.
The only reason this is not a solid five stars is the final conflict. We would have loved to see Alec and Lottie working together to unmask a traitor instead of working separately to save each other. Like we said, we love it when our lovers communicate and tell each other what they want, and while Alec certainly had his reasons for deceiving Lottie, it would have made the payoff much sweeter if our couple weren't separated for the final act. We are looking forward to seeing much more from Emily Sullivan!
34-word summaries:
Meg: Lottie and Alec fell in love five years ago. Then he left without saying goodbye. When the reluctant spy shows up to ruin her ruination scheme, she’s not inclined to cut him any slack.
Laine: Lottie chooses her own destiny but the only man she's ever loved is sent to stop her. Alec disappeared from Lottie's life because he thought it'd be best for her (and he's a spy).
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy.
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
The only reason this is not a solid five stars is the final conflict. We would have loved to see Alec and Lottie working together to unmask a traitor instead of working separately to save each other. Like we said, we love it when our lovers communicate and tell each other what they want, and while Alec certainly had his reasons for deceiving Lottie, it would have made the payoff much sweeter if our couple weren't separated for the final act. We are looking forward to seeing much more from Emily Sullivan!
34-word summaries:
Meg: Lottie and Alec fell in love five years ago. Then he left without saying goodbye. When the reluctant spy shows up to ruin her ruination scheme, she’s not inclined to cut him any slack.
Laine: Lottie chooses her own destiny but the only man she's ever loved is sent to stop her. Alec disappeared from Lottie's life because he thought it'd be best for her (and he's a spy).
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy.
www.linktr.ee/plottrysts
September 17, 2022
✨Italian sunsets, road trip traveling, and a hot professor—need I say more?✨
Okay fine, if you insist—only one bed; childhood friends to enemies to lovers; and hot, secrety spies. Right off the bat I was hooked on this book. I love when the heroine and hero are immediately present on the page together. As soon as we meet Alec five pages in, the sticky sweet tension between the two never falters. I loved the Italian setting because not only was the imagery sparkling, but I also found it fascinating to read about other countries from the perspective of Victorian English characters.
While this is a debut novel, it reads so polished and organized. I loved Sullivan’s voice, the dual POVs, and the way she interwove some of the childhood memories into the narrative. I am rather new to the childhood friends to lovers trope and I am so, so happy that it wasn’t all smooth sailing on the Mediterranean. I loved that there was a definite enemies to lovers moment. I don’t like when the romance is too easy or fast, which I find happens when one or both of the characters don’t mistake love for hate at least five times. Alec and Lottie’s chemistry was electric throughout the book, and I ate up their character development.
I have an unfortunate propensity to get to the sex scenes as soon as I sit down for supper. My sister eats very slow so there is normally time to read after I’m done . . . well safe to say this book is NSFDT—not safe for dinner table. You have thus been warned.
I audibly whooped when I found out who the sequel would follow and I can’t wait to see cameos from Alec and Lottie. Thank you so much to Emily Sullivan and Forever for sending me an early review copy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
Okay fine, if you insist—only one bed; childhood friends to enemies to lovers; and hot, secrety spies. Right off the bat I was hooked on this book. I love when the heroine and hero are immediately present on the page together. As soon as we meet Alec five pages in, the sticky sweet tension between the two never falters. I loved the Italian setting because not only was the imagery sparkling, but I also found it fascinating to read about other countries from the perspective of Victorian English characters.
While this is a debut novel, it reads so polished and organized. I loved Sullivan’s voice, the dual POVs, and the way she interwove some of the childhood memories into the narrative. I am rather new to the childhood friends to lovers trope and I am so, so happy that it wasn’t all smooth sailing on the Mediterranean. I loved that there was a definite enemies to lovers moment. I don’t like when the romance is too easy or fast, which I find happens when one or both of the characters don’t mistake love for hate at least five times. Alec and Lottie’s chemistry was electric throughout the book, and I ate up their character development.
I have an unfortunate propensity to get to the sex scenes as soon as I sit down for supper. My sister eats very slow so there is normally time to read after I’m done . . . well safe to say this book is NSFDT—not safe for dinner table. You have thus been warned.
I audibly whooped when I found out who the sequel would follow and I can’t wait to see cameos from Alec and Lottie. Thank you so much to Emily Sullivan and Forever for sending me an early review copy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
March 3, 2021
I wish I could tell you I loved this one; I can't. I was intrigued by the premise, but unfortunately the story runs into problems almost from the get-go. Improbable (implausible?) situations, loose editing, random espionage plots that go absolutely nowhere, henchmen who are suckers for “true love,” and yearning - SO MUCH OF THE YEARNING - sabotage what could have been an enjoyable debut. I think this one would be better in a shorter format, minus the spies. They don’t add anything to this romance, and detract from the yearning - which also could have used a good, ruthless trimming. Highlights? The romantic tension between our principal characters, and some nicely steamy love scenes. Our heroine is a bit braver in bed than most fictional Regency virgins but I’m here for it. Get it girl.
Raised by her mostly indulgent Uncle Alfred after the sudden death of her parents in a carriage accident, Lottie Carlisle had a happy childhood. But these days she’s miserable. After five seasons spent rejecting suitor after suitor, longing for love from her childhood friend and companion Alec (a ward of her uncle), Uncle Alfred has demanded she marry before the end of the following season. While Lottie knows her love for Alec is futile - he clearly isn't interested in love or friendship with her - vanishing the morning after her debut, she won't settle for a loveless marriage either. Tired of London, its shallow society, and her uninspiring life (good ‘ole Uncle Alfred put a quick end to her meetings with suffragettes the moment he learned of her interest), Lottie decides to take matters into her own hands.
After spurring yet another suitor (he was super pissed), she’s sent to Italy with a repressive chaperone. Knowing her uncle intends to marry her off during the next season and unwilling to live her tedious life any longer, Lottie escapes the chaperone and travels to Tuscany. Once there she leases a cottage for a year, pretends to be a widow, and hopes her scandalous behavior will ruin her for good. She leaves behind clues that suggest she's headed to Rome with a lover! (gasp), and hopes she can live in peace in Tuscany - painting and living the good life. Unfortunately for Lottie, her uncle is a super fancy spymaster for the Crown and he has any number of agents at his disposal to track her down. Oops. That pesky detail!
MS. SULLIVAN! HE'S A SPY. SHE'S A YOUNG, WHITE WOMAN TRAVELING ON HER OWN. SHE DOESN'T SPEAK THE LANGUAGE. I mean. Come on. Her plan was for shit. For real. Spy or not, tracking her down isn't difficult. She has beautiful, distinctive red hair (of course!), her skin is pale white and freckled, she doesn't speak the language, and she's settled in the place her parents once honeymooned. Ooh, good one Lottie! So tricky. FFS.
Well, guess which spy takes the case? Yep! Alec! Now, poor lust filled Alec has spent the past five years keeping tabs on the LOVE OF HIS LIFE after sweet Uncle Alfred told him he’d ruin his life if he put the moves on Lottie. He rejected Alec’s offer to marry her and instead told him a career as a spy was his future - not Lottie. And if he decided to pursue her anyway, he’d reveal the true story behind Alec’s parentage. Oh no! MON - FREAKING - DIEU!!!
Alec loves Lottie TOO MUCH to soil her with the truth of his origins, so he becomes a spy. Look, if this sounds super lameville as a reason for avoiding the love of your life for five years, spoiler alert, it is! Maybe you don’t know her as well as you think you do? Because she’s actually kind of a decent person. Who would have been sympathetic to you? She's your best friend! And nice. And thoughtful. And kind. So there's ALL THAT. But ignore it. Do the spy thing. Pine.
Anywho. Alec turns out to be VERY GOOD AT HIS SPY JOB. Murder! Mayhem! Knives! Also, charitable works in Venice. For reals. Alec maintains a cover as The Professor (he teaches Etruscan history at the local university), dabbles in helping the odd widow and orphan out, and keeps his spying on the downlow. He’s all that and a bag of chips folks.
Well, he follows the trail of TOTALLY OBVIOUS clues/breadcrumbs and shows up at Lottie’s door. Once there he pretends he’s her husband to the super stoked servant Maria. She’s all “OH, THAT SILLY, LYING LOTTIE! SHE ACTUALLY HAS A MAN!! WE KNEW IT! HE’S HOT! ALL WILL BE WELL! LET’S MAKE LOTS OF FOOD SO THEY CAN GIVE EACH OTHER LINGERING LOOKS WHILE THEY STUFF THEIR FACES! MANGIAMO AMICI.” Lottie isn’t nearly as thrilled. Psych! She totally is. But pretends she isn’t. They argue - PASSIONATELY (duh) - and then Alec tells her Uncle Alfred is dying and she has to come back. With him. That’s crazy. Right?
Alrighty then. So, not-so-spoilery alert, she goes. And the journey is bonkers. Lots of eye fucking. Inadvertent peep shows. There was even that one time Lottie spotted his bulge even though his back was to her. Yep! Moving on. Lust. One bed. Spycraft. Danger. Intrigue. Random other spies who make no sense in the story and practically scream I’m the hero in the next book. Nice to meet you Rafe. But beat it. You make zero sense in this story.
Okay. So, this review has gone off the rails….just like this story does once these two wind up in Venice for a pitstop at Alec’s secret lair. FRIENDS. Alec lives in the home he grew up in before his parents...well, before. But apparently it's so ultra secret that none of the dastardly villains in this story bothered to check if maybe that’s where he hides out. Moving on.
I liked these two as a couple, and as individuals. They seem like good people. Life (the author) threw a wrench in their true love plans, but they find each other anyway. Their chemistry is excellent, and they are deeply in lust with each other - maybe for a tad too long in this novel. But once they give in and get it on, we veer heavily into purple prose-ville. Also, Lottie turns out to be a minx when her clothes come off. She’s curious and eager and these two have a nice couple of interludes before Alec reminds himself “he’s not good enough.” For The Love, Alec! For the love. Then there’s that secret intrigue we all TOTALLY COULD SEE FROM A MILE AWAY that the author is determined to shoehorn into the story.
Look, I wanted to like this. But I’m sorry to say it’s too long, and the intrigue makes no sense except to introduce our buddy Rafe. Promising start, not so great finish. I can't recommend it.
Raised by her mostly indulgent Uncle Alfred after the sudden death of her parents in a carriage accident, Lottie Carlisle had a happy childhood. But these days she’s miserable. After five seasons spent rejecting suitor after suitor, longing for love from her childhood friend and companion Alec (a ward of her uncle), Uncle Alfred has demanded she marry before the end of the following season. While Lottie knows her love for Alec is futile - he clearly isn't interested in love or friendship with her - vanishing the morning after her debut, she won't settle for a loveless marriage either. Tired of London, its shallow society, and her uninspiring life (good ‘ole Uncle Alfred put a quick end to her meetings with suffragettes the moment he learned of her interest), Lottie decides to take matters into her own hands.
After spurring yet another suitor (he was super pissed), she’s sent to Italy with a repressive chaperone. Knowing her uncle intends to marry her off during the next season and unwilling to live her tedious life any longer, Lottie escapes the chaperone and travels to Tuscany. Once there she leases a cottage for a year, pretends to be a widow, and hopes her scandalous behavior will ruin her for good. She leaves behind clues that suggest she's headed to Rome with a lover! (gasp), and hopes she can live in peace in Tuscany - painting and living the good life. Unfortunately for Lottie, her uncle is a super fancy spymaster for the Crown and he has any number of agents at his disposal to track her down. Oops. That pesky detail!
MS. SULLIVAN! HE'S A SPY. SHE'S A YOUNG, WHITE WOMAN TRAVELING ON HER OWN. SHE DOESN'T SPEAK THE LANGUAGE. I mean. Come on. Her plan was for shit. For real. Spy or not, tracking her down isn't difficult. She has beautiful, distinctive red hair (of course!), her skin is pale white and freckled, she doesn't speak the language, and she's settled in the place her parents once honeymooned. Ooh, good one Lottie! So tricky. FFS.
Well, guess which spy takes the case? Yep! Alec! Now, poor lust filled Alec has spent the past five years keeping tabs on the LOVE OF HIS LIFE after sweet Uncle Alfred told him he’d ruin his life if he put the moves on Lottie. He rejected Alec’s offer to marry her and instead told him a career as a spy was his future - not Lottie. And if he decided to pursue her anyway, he’d reveal the true story behind Alec’s parentage. Oh no! MON - FREAKING - DIEU!!!
Alec loves Lottie TOO MUCH to soil her with the truth of his origins, so he becomes a spy. Look, if this sounds super lameville as a reason for avoiding the love of your life for five years, spoiler alert, it is! Maybe you don’t know her as well as you think you do? Because she’s actually kind of a decent person. Who would have been sympathetic to you? She's your best friend! And nice. And thoughtful. And kind. So there's ALL THAT. But ignore it. Do the spy thing. Pine.
Anywho. Alec turns out to be VERY GOOD AT HIS SPY JOB. Murder! Mayhem! Knives! Also, charitable works in Venice. For reals. Alec maintains a cover as The Professor (he teaches Etruscan history at the local university), dabbles in helping the odd widow and orphan out, and keeps his spying on the downlow. He’s all that and a bag of chips folks.
Well, he follows the trail of TOTALLY OBVIOUS clues/breadcrumbs and shows up at Lottie’s door. Once there he pretends he’s her husband to the super stoked servant Maria. She’s all “OH, THAT SILLY, LYING LOTTIE! SHE ACTUALLY HAS A MAN!! WE KNEW IT! HE’S HOT! ALL WILL BE WELL! LET’S MAKE LOTS OF FOOD SO THEY CAN GIVE EACH OTHER LINGERING LOOKS WHILE THEY STUFF THEIR FACES! MANGIAMO AMICI.” Lottie isn’t nearly as thrilled. Psych! She totally is. But pretends she isn’t. They argue - PASSIONATELY (duh) - and then Alec tells her Uncle Alfred is dying and she has to come back. With him. That’s crazy. Right?
Alrighty then. So, not-so-spoilery alert, she goes. And the journey is bonkers. Lots of eye fucking. Inadvertent peep shows. There was even that one time Lottie spotted his bulge even though his back was to her. Yep! Moving on. Lust. One bed. Spycraft. Danger. Intrigue. Random other spies who make no sense in the story and practically scream I’m the hero in the next book. Nice to meet you Rafe. But beat it. You make zero sense in this story.
Okay. So, this review has gone off the rails….just like this story does once these two wind up in Venice for a pitstop at Alec’s secret lair. FRIENDS. Alec lives in the home he grew up in before his parents...well, before. But apparently it's so ultra secret that none of the dastardly villains in this story bothered to check if maybe that’s where he hides out. Moving on.
I liked these two as a couple, and as individuals. They seem like good people. Life (the author) threw a wrench in their true love plans, but they find each other anyway. Their chemistry is excellent, and they are deeply in lust with each other - maybe for a tad too long in this novel. But once they give in and get it on, we veer heavily into purple prose-ville. Also, Lottie turns out to be a minx when her clothes come off. She’s curious and eager and these two have a nice couple of interludes before Alec reminds himself “he’s not good enough.” For The Love, Alec! For the love. Then there’s that secret intrigue we all TOTALLY COULD SEE FROM A MILE AWAY that the author is determined to shoehorn into the story.
Look, I wanted to like this. But I’m sorry to say it’s too long, and the intrigue makes no sense except to introduce our buddy Rafe. Promising start, not so great finish. I can't recommend it.
June 30, 2021
A huge thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Recommended if you love Lisa Kleypas and Katharine Ashe.
This was a lovely friends-to-lovers historical romance.
The childhood connection between Lottie and Alec is the defining relationship in both their lives. Until it isn't. Until they are manipulated into believing they are not what is best or right or happy for each other.
Lottie has resolutely recovered from Alec's abandonment five years ago. She is determined to become an independent woman untethered by the apron strings of society and free to pursue a life of travel and adventure. But her escape has garnered the eagle attention of her uncle -- and he will not tolerate her willfulness. Alec is tasked with returning her to England.
When they meet again, it is oil and water. When he kisses her, she wants to believe it is because of something more substantial than their fake relationship ruse. She wants him to understand her, but she doesn't want that vulnerability between them. And Alec is convinced that his past is an insurmountable obstacle to a future with her.
The navigation of their star-crossed circumstances had me smiling and shaking my head. In the tradition of all obtuse and oblivious men, Alec doesn't realize that he is exactly what Lottie both wants and needs.
Recommended if you love Lisa Kleypas and Katharine Ashe.
This was a lovely friends-to-lovers historical romance.
The childhood connection between Lottie and Alec is the defining relationship in both their lives. Until it isn't. Until they are manipulated into believing they are not what is best or right or happy for each other.
Lottie has resolutely recovered from Alec's abandonment five years ago. She is determined to become an independent woman untethered by the apron strings of society and free to pursue a life of travel and adventure. But her escape has garnered the eagle attention of her uncle -- and he will not tolerate her willfulness. Alec is tasked with returning her to England.
When they meet again, it is oil and water. When he kisses her, she wants to believe it is because of something more substantial than their fake relationship ruse. She wants him to understand her, but she doesn't want that vulnerability between them. And Alec is convinced that his past is an insurmountable obstacle to a future with her.
The navigation of their star-crossed circumstances had me smiling and shaking my head. In the tradition of all obtuse and oblivious men, Alec doesn't realize that he is exactly what Lottie both wants and needs.
March 9, 2021
This debut was beautiful and I am now a huge fan of Emily Sullivan!
Lottie and Alec grew up together, unfortunate circumstances brought them both under the care of Lottie's uncle. They became best friends while also developing more feelings as they grew up.
When Lottie comes of age her uncle pressures her to Marty right away and sends Alec away. She devises a plot to ruin her so she won't have to marry and leaves England for Italy.
Alec tracks her down after a while to tell her she must come home, that her uncle is dying. She agrees but only if she can see Italy with him before they go.
They end up taking a road trip through Italy while both falling more in love with each other than before, but also thinking it's unrequited on the other side.
This was an absolute delight. I loved the slow growth of their relationship and if ever a hero was completely gone for the heroine it is Alec for Lottie.
A road trip romance, there's only one bed, a spy for the crown, and a severe case of mutual pining. I loved this.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Lottie and Alec grew up together, unfortunate circumstances brought them both under the care of Lottie's uncle. They became best friends while also developing more feelings as they grew up.
When Lottie comes of age her uncle pressures her to Marty right away and sends Alec away. She devises a plot to ruin her so she won't have to marry and leaves England for Italy.
Alec tracks her down after a while to tell her she must come home, that her uncle is dying. She agrees but only if she can see Italy with him before they go.
They end up taking a road trip through Italy while both falling more in love with each other than before, but also thinking it's unrequited on the other side.
This was an absolute delight. I loved the slow growth of their relationship and if ever a hero was completely gone for the heroine it is Alec for Lottie.
A road trip romance, there's only one bed, a spy for the crown, and a severe case of mutual pining. I loved this.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 31, 2021
I picked up A Rogue to Remember by Emily Sullivan after learning that Mazey loved it. I've been in the mood for historical romances lately and it didn't much convincing to pick up this book. It's got spies, a childhood friends-to-lovers romance, and an Italian road trip of sorts! Emily Sullivan's debut was a fun reading experience that I found myself devouring.
Tired of London society and her uncle Alfred's constant pressure on her to marry, Lottie fakes a scandal and runs away to the Italian countryside where no one will recognize her. She wants to be left alone to live her life as a spinster on her own terms. Too bad (or is it really?) for her, her childhood friend, Alex, who is now a professor and agent of the crown, shows up on her doorstep with news that he is here to take her back to England where her uncle is passing away.
Lottie is angry at Alex but their journey back home is reviving all of her feelings for him and it's fantastic! Plus, Alex is the pining kind of hero so I pretty much ate this romance up! I liked both of these characters, but it was the romance and chemistry between Lottie and Alex that kept me glued to the pages. They both have had feelings for each other for the longest time that they thought were unrequited and they are just waiting to spill over. I realized after reading this book how much I love the angst of a romance where two people are clearly made for each other, but they think their feelings are unrequited and it takes the romantic journey for them to realize it - oof! All the chest aches! When the two stubborn knuckleheads finally do give in to the sizzling sexual tension and years of emotions between them, it's sensual, steamy, and will have your toes curling. They have their fair share of obstacles in this book, including some danger and intrigue, that only added to my enjoyment of A Rogue to Remember.
I thought Emily Sullivan did a good job with the characterizations in A Rogue to Remember. I enjoyed both of the main characters individually and I also thought she did a good job at getting me intrigued by some of the side characters - hullo, Rafe! Both Lottie and Alex have interesting backstories. I was especially invested in Alex's past and there are quite a few secrets surrounding his family revealed about him. I also found his dual profession as an archaeologist and spy to be interesting for a historical romance. The man definitely had issues with his self-worth that he has to work on throughout the book, but most of all I just liked how genuine he appeared to be. Sure, he was an idiot when it came to Lottie, but a lovable one! Lottie, herself, was fantastic. She has a good head on her shoulders and went after what she wanted. All in all, I enjoyed this cast and I hope we get to see Alex and Lottie as side characters in future books of the series.
If you enjoy historical romances, I would give A Rogue to Remember a chance! Emily Sullivan has got a new fan and reader in me and I simply cannot wait to read more from this series!
CWs: parental deaths, on-page death of MC's uncle
Relationship disclosure: Emily Sullivan & I are mutuals on social media.
Tired of London society and her uncle Alfred's constant pressure on her to marry, Lottie fakes a scandal and runs away to the Italian countryside where no one will recognize her. She wants to be left alone to live her life as a spinster on her own terms. Too bad (or is it really?) for her, her childhood friend, Alex, who is now a professor and agent of the crown, shows up on her doorstep with news that he is here to take her back to England where her uncle is passing away.
Lottie is angry at Alex but their journey back home is reviving all of her feelings for him and it's fantastic! Plus, Alex is the pining kind of hero so I pretty much ate this romance up! I liked both of these characters, but it was the romance and chemistry between Lottie and Alex that kept me glued to the pages. They both have had feelings for each other for the longest time that they thought were unrequited and they are just waiting to spill over. I realized after reading this book how much I love the angst of a romance where two people are clearly made for each other, but they think their feelings are unrequited and it takes the romantic journey for them to realize it - oof! All the chest aches! When the two stubborn knuckleheads finally do give in to the sizzling sexual tension and years of emotions between them, it's sensual, steamy, and will have your toes curling. They have their fair share of obstacles in this book, including some danger and intrigue, that only added to my enjoyment of A Rogue to Remember.
I thought Emily Sullivan did a good job with the characterizations in A Rogue to Remember. I enjoyed both of the main characters individually and I also thought she did a good job at getting me intrigued by some of the side characters - hullo, Rafe! Both Lottie and Alex have interesting backstories. I was especially invested in Alex's past and there are quite a few secrets surrounding his family revealed about him. I also found his dual profession as an archaeologist and spy to be interesting for a historical romance. The man definitely had issues with his self-worth that he has to work on throughout the book, but most of all I just liked how genuine he appeared to be. Sure, he was an idiot when it came to Lottie, but a lovable one! Lottie, herself, was fantastic. She has a good head on her shoulders and went after what she wanted. All in all, I enjoyed this cast and I hope we get to see Alex and Lottie as side characters in future books of the series.
If you enjoy historical romances, I would give A Rogue to Remember a chance! Emily Sullivan has got a new fan and reader in me and I simply cannot wait to read more from this series!
CWs: parental deaths, on-page death of MC's uncle
Relationship disclosure: Emily Sullivan & I are mutuals on social media.
March 15, 2021
Tags: road trip, misunderstandings, second chance
For a “second chance” romance to work for me, I need to like the couple as separate people first. I want to be reassured that they’ve learned their lessons enough to make a success of their relationship. So, even setting aside the endless nonsensical miscommunication, my biggest problem with this book is that I didnt like hero and heroine at all.
The hero’s high-handed ways, his lack of communication, and his noble idiocy are all old school romance tropes. He has a Badass Career and Daddy/Parent issues so typical of a hero’s dark past. I think over the many years of reading romance novels, I’ve become sort of resigned to ubiquity of this sort of characterization?
Surprisingly, its this new trend of faux feminism that especially annoys me—dialogue that supposedly supports a woman’s competence but none of the actions follow through. I’ve had problems with this before, and I always have to check myself and try to give characters a chance but the heroine constantly has sentiments like this:
Its just an endless litany of memeable feminist talking points but none of her actions show real self-reliance, agency, or even logic. It feels pandering and totally cringe.
Most importantly, I could forgive all of this if I cared about the storyline or felt any chemistry...but I didnt. I kept reading because I was more interested in the mysterious Uncle Alfred and his manipulations than the couple.
Unfortunately for me, this book failed as a romance and failed with the intrigue. The writing would technically make this a 3 star read, but I'm not feeling generous.
For a “second chance” romance to work for me, I need to like the couple as separate people first. I want to be reassured that they’ve learned their lessons enough to make a success of their relationship. So, even setting aside the endless nonsensical miscommunication, my biggest problem with this book is that I didnt like hero and heroine at all.
The hero’s high-handed ways, his lack of communication, and his noble idiocy are all old school romance tropes. He has a Badass Career and Daddy/Parent issues so typical of a hero’s dark past. I think over the many years of reading romance novels, I’ve become sort of resigned to ubiquity of this sort of characterization?
Surprisingly, its this new trend of faux feminism that especially annoys me—dialogue that supposedly supports a woman’s competence but none of the actions follow through. I’ve had problems with this before, and I always have to check myself and try to give characters a chance but the heroine constantly has sentiments like this:
“And most women would like to be valued for more than their looks.”
“Of course.” Alec grinned. “I would never dare suggest otherwise.”
[…]
“Besides,” she went on, “I refuse to limit my reading to what is considered ‘proper.’ That would be incredibly boring.”
[…]
“Women do travel, you know. And often alone.” Then Lottie raised an eyebrow. “I had no idea you had become so conservative.”
[…]
“I’m not some helpless little girl anymore,” Lottie continued with a stamp of her foot. “I’m capable of taking care of myself. And I don’t need your protection.”
Its just an endless litany of memeable feminist talking points but none of her actions show real self-reliance, agency, or even logic. It feels pandering and totally cringe.
Most importantly, I could forgive all of this if I cared about the storyline or felt any chemistry...but I didnt. I kept reading because I was more interested in the mysterious Uncle Alfred and his manipulations than the couple.
Unfortunately for me, this book failed as a romance and failed with the intrigue. The writing would technically make this a 3 star read, but I'm not feeling generous.
December 15, 2020
This book was lovely, I found it impossible to put down. The synopsis lured me in, it sounded really fun. Even so, I was surprised by how quickly Lottie and Alec engaged my heart. I genuinely liked them. The flashbacks to their childhood were endearing, the chemistry between them sizzled, and I sincerely hoped they would reconcile.
I loved that the story takes place mostly in Italy. It was an enchanting change from the usual English setting. The secondary characters are well-portrayed and the plot a good scaffold for the relationship arc. I could mention so many scenes that made me chuckle or sigh dreamily, but will refrain for fear of spoilers. Suffice it to say, I was left most definitely wanting more from this author.
I loved that the story takes place mostly in Italy. It was an enchanting change from the usual English setting. The secondary characters are well-portrayed and the plot a good scaffold for the relationship arc. I could mention so many scenes that made me chuckle or sigh dreamily, but will refrain for fear of spoilers. Suffice it to say, I was left most definitely wanting more from this author.
October 31, 2022
This was sooooooo boring. I couldn't feel the connection between our hero and heroine and everything else was lacking.
January 7, 2021
A Rogue to Remember was a surprising and delightful historical romance debut from Emily Sullivan. Lottie Carlisle runs away from her chaperone to a small town in Italy, determined to ruin her reputation in order to avoid a marriage arranged by her uncle. She didn't expect to be discovered so quickly, by her childhood best friend, the only man she has ever loved, and the man she hasn't heard a word from in five years.
Alec grew up as the ward of Lottie's uncle, who groomed Alec for a career in espionage. Despite his love for Lottie, he was convinced that he could never give her the life she deserved, so he leaves. Now he's come to rescue her from ruin, but things get complicated and past hurts can't be ignored. Nor can their burning attraction for each other.
I enjoyed this story for its intrigue and adventure. Most of the story takes place in Italy, and there's a good mix of road trip tropes - only one bed, of course! - and action and adventure. At its heart, it's a second chance romance with complicated family dynamics. I liked that there wasn't a two-dimensional villian here, but people who made difficult choices with unintended consequences. I will be looking forward to the next book in this series!
Alec grew up as the ward of Lottie's uncle, who groomed Alec for a career in espionage. Despite his love for Lottie, he was convinced that he could never give her the life she deserved, so he leaves. Now he's come to rescue her from ruin, but things get complicated and past hurts can't be ignored. Nor can their burning attraction for each other.
I enjoyed this story for its intrigue and adventure. Most of the story takes place in Italy, and there's a good mix of road trip tropes - only one bed, of course! - and action and adventure. At its heart, it's a second chance romance with complicated family dynamics. I liked that there wasn't a two-dimensional villian here, but people who made difficult choices with unintended consequences. I will be looking forward to the next book in this series!
January 23, 2021
The novel follows Lottie, who has runaway from home in an attempt to “ruin” her reputation, and Alec, her childhood friend turned spy who is sent to retrieve her. Of course, nothing goes as planned and as they travel through Italy sparks fly, though they try quite hard to deny them.
The tension is this book was intense and kept me turning the pages to see when they would finally let go and kiss already! The chemistry between these two was palpable, and their story heartbreaking. I loved Lottie’s rebellious nature and Alec’s soft center despite a hardened shell. Their love was real and hidden and broken, but never gone. As the story processed, I hurt for Alec and wanted Lottie to get everything she wanted damn the consequences.
And all that was before they ever truly kissed. Once they do kiss (and more), the heartache and excitement sped up into an intriguing and unexpected climax (no pun intended here!) and a satisfying ending that left me excited for the second book in the series!
The tension is this book was intense and kept me turning the pages to see when they would finally let go and kiss already! The chemistry between these two was palpable, and their story heartbreaking. I loved Lottie’s rebellious nature and Alec’s soft center despite a hardened shell. Their love was real and hidden and broken, but never gone. As the story processed, I hurt for Alec and wanted Lottie to get everything she wanted damn the consequences.
And all that was before they ever truly kissed. Once they do kiss (and more), the heartache and excitement sped up into an intriguing and unexpected climax (no pun intended here!) and a satisfying ending that left me excited for the second book in the series!
September 27, 2021
This ended up being a middle-of-the-road historical romance for me. I loved that it was set in Italy, that our characters were travelling together with forced proximity, and that there was a spy/mystery plot line. I thought the mystery was well woven into the story and I loved the climax with the villain reveal.
Lottie was an amazing heroine, I loved how headstrong she was and how she was determined to have her freedom one way or another. She wasn't afraid to banter, and she also has no problem embracing her sexuality. She was the star character of this novel.
The problem is that I wasn't in love with the romance. There was a lot of mutual pining, which I adore, but it took forever for the characters to finally confess their feelings to one another, which made it drag on. Second-chance romances are always hit or miss for me, and this one just happened to be a miss.
However, I did enjoy Sullivan's writing style and the mystery aspects of this novel, so I will be continuing on with the series and reading more from this author.
Lottie was an amazing heroine, I loved how headstrong she was and how she was determined to have her freedom one way or another. She wasn't afraid to banter, and she also has no problem embracing her sexuality. She was the star character of this novel.
The problem is that I wasn't in love with the romance. There was a lot of mutual pining, which I adore, but it took forever for the characters to finally confess their feelings to one another, which made it drag on. Second-chance romances are always hit or miss for me, and this one just happened to be a miss.
However, I did enjoy Sullivan's writing style and the mystery aspects of this novel, so I will be continuing on with the series and reading more from this author.
January 30, 2021
A Rogue to Remember by Emily Sullivan is a second-chance at love/road trip romance mash up. What you need to know first is that the road trip takes place in Italy. Yes! The change of scenery makes this regency romance that much more romantic and I thoroughly appreciate Sullivan dragging us all out of the tepid English rain and into the gorgeous Italian sunshine and the elaborate Venetian dining rooms.
Lottie and Alec grew up together and their childhood affection blossomed into love, but Lottie’s uncle, who was also Alec’s guardian, separated them for reasons. Now, Lottie has slipped from beneath her uncle’s thumb and taken off across Italy and Alec has been sent to bring her back. Sullivan’s writing is intelligent and engaging. She does an excellent job building the sexual tension between the two (there is ONLY ONE BED at the inn!!) while at the same time giving us an emotional connection between the two that makes the inevitable plunge into the ONLY ONE BED satisfying and bittersweet at the same time.
I highly recommend A Rogue to Remember for all readers of historical fiction who appreciate an angsty journey through the Italian countryside on their way to an HEA.
January 23, 2021
I love a second chance romance and this came with so much sweetness and pining and that slow burn I just loved it. The language is easy, Marta is delightful and the turns and twists keep you on your toes. Trying not to give any spoilers is so hard. :)
Alec and Lottie totally irritate each other but when the pull becomes strong you can't help but cheer them on.
Lottie is a sweet mix of a strong woman and a sponge for love. Alec has no idea how good he is. They are a perfect mix. Bonus is the unexpectedly adventurous tour they get on and the scenery you experience through the author's words.
So hop on it and it would be a "read to remember!"
Alec and Lottie totally irritate each other but when the pull becomes strong you can't help but cheer them on.
Lottie is a sweet mix of a strong woman and a sponge for love. Alec has no idea how good he is. They are a perfect mix. Bonus is the unexpectedly adventurous tour they get on and the scenery you experience through the author's words.
So hop on it and it would be a "read to remember!"
January 12, 2021
This was book was fantastic! I loved Lottie strength, Alec's intrigues, and the Italian setting was just perfect. Watching their romance develop as lie after lie is slowly peeled away was just so satisfying.
October 18, 2023
Meh. I always hate when one of the main characters experiences a crush on another character (who is not the love interest) halfway through the book. Just makes me cringe. Too bad, since there was mirror sex. But also: the book was pretty gosh darn boring overall.
November 6, 2022
I loved every second of this book! Lottie was amazing! Lottie and Alec together were just fabulous and Rafe was awesome! Like can’t wait for his book awesome! Thank god I have the whole series because I’m invested in Rafe 😏
I loved the story, the Italian/Venetian setting and the drama! I honestly didn’t even mind the 3rd act break up. Don’t get me wrong I was super mad but it did enhance the story and the drama.
Lottie and Alec have been friends since childhood but when they become adults they realize they love each other but Rafe isn’t of the same “class” as Lottie so he gets pushed away by her Uncle. Years later and Lottie has had enough of London society, they suck, she hates everyone and ends up running away in Italy. (Girl, I wish I had done that in my youth!) Her uncle sends non-other than Alec to bring her back to England. Obviously, danger, intrigue and romance ensue!
This was excellent!
I loved the story, the Italian/Venetian setting and the drama! I honestly didn’t even mind the 3rd act break up. Don’t get me wrong I was super mad but it did enhance the story and the drama.
Lottie and Alec have been friends since childhood but when they become adults they realize they love each other but Rafe isn’t of the same “class” as Lottie so he gets pushed away by her Uncle. Years later and Lottie has had enough of London society, they suck, she hates everyone and ends up running away in Italy. (Girl, I wish I had done that in my youth!) Her uncle sends non-other than Alec to bring her back to England. Obviously, danger, intrigue and romance ensue!
This was excellent!
May 14, 2022
3.5 Stars
This is the first book that I’ve read from this author and it was just okay. I always love a second chance romance and it was just okay.
This is the first book that I’ve read from this author and it was just okay. I always love a second chance romance and it was just okay.
March 8, 2021
This is a sweet childhood friends to lovers romance with some spies and suspense thrown in as well. I loved that this took place in Italy, as that isn’t something I see often in a historical romance.
Alec is Alfred’s ward and grew up with Alfred’s niece, Lottie. He has been in love with her for years. He came back to London the night of her debutante ball to court her, but they were ripped apart. Five years have gone by with no communication, and Lottie has run off to Italy to be with her (imaginary) Italian lover. She is hoping to ruin herself so that she will be free to live here as she wants without having to marry. Alfred is worried and reaches out to Alec to help since he is already in Venice. Alec finds her and pretends to be her husband to be allowed into the house.
Lottie agrees to let him take her back to London as long as he will show her Venice on the way. There is lots of fake dating/marriage as they travel together, which I loved. Alec is a spy working for the crown, and quickly gets pulled back into work when he and Lottie arrive in Venice. This results in lots of intrigue and mystery, all while they continue to fall in love with each other.
This was such good romance, a great debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what is next from Emily Sullivan.
4 stars
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
Alec is Alfred’s ward and grew up with Alfred’s niece, Lottie. He has been in love with her for years. He came back to London the night of her debutante ball to court her, but they were ripped apart. Five years have gone by with no communication, and Lottie has run off to Italy to be with her (imaginary) Italian lover. She is hoping to ruin herself so that she will be free to live here as she wants without having to marry. Alfred is worried and reaches out to Alec to help since he is already in Venice. Alec finds her and pretends to be her husband to be allowed into the house.
Lottie agrees to let him take her back to London as long as he will show her Venice on the way. There is lots of fake dating/marriage as they travel together, which I loved. Alec is a spy working for the crown, and quickly gets pulled back into work when he and Lottie arrive in Venice. This results in lots of intrigue and mystery, all while they continue to fall in love with each other.
This was such good romance, a great debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what is next from Emily Sullivan.
4 stars
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
March 28, 2021
Picturesque, passionate, and mysterious!
A Rogue to Remember is a lighthearted, compelling, second-chance romance that features the independent, strong-willed Lottie Carlisle, who successfully flees London for the Italian countryside in order to ruin her reputation and foil her uncle’s attempts to have her married off by the season’s end, that is until Alec Gresham, a spy for the Crown and her childhood friend and former crush finds her and endeavours to return her home.
The prose is engaging and fun. The characters are secretive, multilayered, and spontaneous. And the plot is a charming mix of friendship, family, drama, emotion, secrets, societal expectations, tender moments, and perilous situations.
Overall, A Rogue to Remember is a seductive, spicy, highly entertaining debut by Sullivan that has the added bonus of sweeping you away to 1897 Italy instead of the typical UK setting most often found in this genre.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
A Rogue to Remember is a lighthearted, compelling, second-chance romance that features the independent, strong-willed Lottie Carlisle, who successfully flees London for the Italian countryside in order to ruin her reputation and foil her uncle’s attempts to have her married off by the season’s end, that is until Alec Gresham, a spy for the Crown and her childhood friend and former crush finds her and endeavours to return her home.
The prose is engaging and fun. The characters are secretive, multilayered, and spontaneous. And the plot is a charming mix of friendship, family, drama, emotion, secrets, societal expectations, tender moments, and perilous situations.
Overall, A Rogue to Remember is a seductive, spicy, highly entertaining debut by Sullivan that has the added bonus of sweeping you away to 1897 Italy instead of the typical UK setting most often found in this genre.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2021
A solid debut historical!
This book was quite a romp! I love that it is unique in the sense that we spend a lot of time in Italy. That isn't the most common setting for a historical, and it felt fresh as I read it.
Lottie and Alec truly were a lot of fun to read about, and I enjoyed my time rooting for them to figure out they need each other.
Cannot wait to see what else is to come in this series!
This book was quite a romp! I love that it is unique in the sense that we spend a lot of time in Italy. That isn't the most common setting for a historical, and it felt fresh as I read it.
Lottie and Alec truly were a lot of fun to read about, and I enjoyed my time rooting for them to figure out they need each other.
Cannot wait to see what else is to come in this series!
January 1, 2022
Lottie Carlisle hates spending time with London society, but when her uncle, and guardian, claims she will be married by the end of the next season, or else, she has to come up with a plan to save her, and her plan might just work. While abroad, Lottie creates a scandal by fleeing from her companion, and hiding out in the Italian countryside, hoping this will make her unmarriable, and allow her to spend her time in the place her parents loved. However, her old friend, Alec Gresham has been sent to find her, and bring her home without the scandal becoming public. At one point, they hoped to be with each other, but Alec left without a word five years ago, to work for uncle Alfred, and broke Lottie's heart. Lottie wants nothing to do with him, but learning that her uncle is dying, and being around Alec after so long, can her heart cope with it?
This was a really nice book. I love stories about second chances, and this definitely fit the brief. Alec and Lottie may be from different worlds, but as children they spent time together, and the puppy love feelings soon grew into more. They hoped they could be together, but were wrenched apart by Lottie's uncle, and without knowing the truth, the love turned to hatred as a way to cope with the heartbreak. Lottie's anger has definitely shaped her, and being along in Tuscany, without the pressure of the ton and her uncle, has done her the world of good. So when Alec arrives on her doorstep, ready to drag her home, she's understandably incensed. Alec, though he doesn't relish the idea of having to take her home, has pined for her for years, and the hatred he faces is difficult to swallow. I really liked how they grew together, and they talked over their past grievances and aired all problems in a healthy way. The road trip home was funny in places, and emotional in others, and I was blown away with the ending. My first book from Sullivan, but not my last!
This was a really nice book. I love stories about second chances, and this definitely fit the brief. Alec and Lottie may be from different worlds, but as children they spent time together, and the puppy love feelings soon grew into more. They hoped they could be together, but were wrenched apart by Lottie's uncle, and without knowing the truth, the love turned to hatred as a way to cope with the heartbreak. Lottie's anger has definitely shaped her, and being along in Tuscany, without the pressure of the ton and her uncle, has done her the world of good. So when Alec arrives on her doorstep, ready to drag her home, she's understandably incensed. Alec, though he doesn't relish the idea of having to take her home, has pined for her for years, and the hatred he faces is difficult to swallow. I really liked how they grew together, and they talked over their past grievances and aired all problems in a healthy way. The road trip home was funny in places, and emotional in others, and I was blown away with the ending. My first book from Sullivan, but not my last!
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