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House of Devon #3
Tempting the Scoundrel
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B08D113ZMJ
Love at first sight.
Steamy second chance.
Regency splendor.
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly offered his heart years ago, and he’s never gotten it back. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
If you like spirited heroines who fight falling in love and charmingly arrogant heroes who think they know best, then this is the book for you! Snuggle up with Tempting the Scoundrel, a steamy second chance, love-at-first-sight Regency Romance!
Love at first sight.
Steamy second chance.
Regency splendor.
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly offered his heart years ago, and he’s never gotten it back. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
If you like spirited heroines who fight falling in love and charmingly arrogant heroes who think they know best, then this is the book for you! Snuggle up with Tempting the Scoundrel, a steamy second chance, love-at-first-sight Regency Romance!
98 pages, ebook
First published September 23, 2020
98 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Sumner
60 books1,642 followers"Witty dialogue and steamy sensuality.”
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
—Publisher’s Weekly
The USA Today bestselling author's storytelling career began when she picked up a historical romance on a college beach trip, and she fondly blames LaVyrle Spencer for her obsession with the genre. She’s a recipient of the National Reader’s Choice, HOLT Medallion, Golden Leaf and MAGGIE among others. She lived in New York, Paris and Taipei before returning to NYC.
When not writing sizzling love stories about feisty heroines and their temperamental-but-entirely-lovable heroes, Tracy enjoys reading, snowboarding, college football (Go Tigers!), yoga, and travel. She loves to hear from romance readers!
Find me everywhere on social here!
https://linktr.ee/tracysumner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
August 28, 2020
Many Thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Book #3 in House of Devon series by Tracy Sumner, Tempting the Scoundrel is a delightful short story about love at first sight and second chances.
Christian Bainbridge is all of 15 years old when he spies upon a maid reading under the light of an oil lamp in the house of his cousin. The first glimpse is enough for the rhapsody in his heart, but he leaves to follow his passion with only her name in his possession.
10 years later, Christian is a renowned watchmaker and Raine Mowbray is back in his sights working as a maid in the Duke of Devon’s house. Raine is equally in thrall meeting the charismatic scoundrel knowns for his wenches and watches but she’s practical and knows the differences in their lives.
I never knew a screwdriver can used for such a steamy scene 😆 😆 😆. The author has beautifully provided a sensual romance between such lovely characters but it was not Kit or Raine that had me smiling. Absolutely loved Penny the valet whose interactions with Kit would have anyone in splits. The writing is smooth and flawless and the dialogues in the book is a literary delight.
There’s no villain and no angst added just for the sake of it in the story which made it a very pleasing and gratifying tale. Thoroughly enjoyable!
Highly recommended for fans of this genre!
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads and Twitter.
Book #3 in House of Devon series by Tracy Sumner, Tempting the Scoundrel is a delightful short story about love at first sight and second chances.
Christian Bainbridge is all of 15 years old when he spies upon a maid reading under the light of an oil lamp in the house of his cousin. The first glimpse is enough for the rhapsody in his heart, but he leaves to follow his passion with only her name in his possession.
10 years later, Christian is a renowned watchmaker and Raine Mowbray is back in his sights working as a maid in the Duke of Devon’s house. Raine is equally in thrall meeting the charismatic scoundrel knowns for his wenches and watches but she’s practical and knows the differences in their lives.
I never knew a screwdriver can used for such a steamy scene 😆 😆 😆. The author has beautifully provided a sensual romance between such lovely characters but it was not Kit or Raine that had me smiling. Absolutely loved Penny the valet whose interactions with Kit would have anyone in splits. The writing is smooth and flawless and the dialogues in the book is a literary delight.
There’s no villain and no angst added just for the sake of it in the story which made it a very pleasing and gratifying tale. Thoroughly enjoyable!
Highly recommended for fans of this genre!
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads and Twitter.
November 30, 2020
'As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly offered his heart years ago, and he’s never gotten it back. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.'
____________________________
2.5 stars, rounded down 2 stars.
Tempting the Scoundrel by Tracey Sumner is the third book in the multi-author series, House of Devon and is novella-length.
I was disappointed by Tempting the Scoundrel. I normally really enjoy Tracey Sumner's books, but I just couldn't get into this one. Early pages I knew this book wouldn't be ideal for me because of the love at first sight angle, which is something that I find really cringey, but I was willing to keep an open mind and give the story a try(especially considering the limited number of pages, love at first sight makes sense to get the story to fit within the pages. Still I was enjoying the story and how Christian and Raine are brought back into one another's lives by a good stroke of chance and perfect timing. I liked the upstair/downstairs aspect...but then I found Christian to be too intense, bordering on creepy.
He fell in love with her, spying on her through a window 10 years ago(they never even spoke or made eye contact at the very least). He is desperately in love with the idea of her, not the woman herself, and proposes virtually on their first encounter. And despite her being totally(and rationally) against the proposal, the next morning they kiss for a second time and she is conviced she's in love with him. Barf, what a moron. I already wasn't a fan of Kit and now I'd lost respect for Raine.
Everyone else seems to have really enjoyed Tempting the Scoundrel so I am clearly in the minority here, but I didn't enjoy it and felt that there was little to no plot. It could have been better if things were paced and fleshed out more. I do enjoy Tracy Sumner's writing though, so this one just clearly wasnt for me and I still look forward to reading her next book.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Tracey Sumner for sharing an eARC of Tempting the Scoundrel with me. This is my honest review.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.'
____________________________
2.5 stars, rounded down 2 stars.
Tempting the Scoundrel by Tracey Sumner is the third book in the multi-author series, House of Devon and is novella-length.
I was disappointed by Tempting the Scoundrel. I normally really enjoy Tracey Sumner's books, but I just couldn't get into this one. Early pages I knew this book wouldn't be ideal for me because of the love at first sight angle, which is something that I find really cringey, but I was willing to keep an open mind and give the story a try(especially considering the limited number of pages, love at first sight makes sense to get the story to fit within the pages. Still I was enjoying the story and how Christian and Raine are brought back into one another's lives by a good stroke of chance and perfect timing. I liked the upstair/downstairs aspect...but then I found Christian to be too intense, bordering on creepy.
He fell in love with her, spying on her through a window 10 years ago(they never even spoke or made eye contact at the very least). He is desperately in love with the idea of her, not the woman herself, and proposes virtually on their first encounter. And despite her being totally(and rationally) against the proposal, the next morning they kiss for a second time and she is conviced she's in love with him. Barf, what a moron. I already wasn't a fan of Kit and now I'd lost respect for Raine.
Everyone else seems to have really enjoyed Tempting the Scoundrel so I am clearly in the minority here, but I didn't enjoy it and felt that there was little to no plot. It could have been better if things were paced and fleshed out more. I do enjoy Tracy Sumner's writing though, so this one just clearly wasnt for me and I still look forward to reading her next book.
_____
I would like to thank BookSirens and Tracey Sumner for sharing an eARC of Tempting the Scoundrel with me. This is my honest review.
March 7, 2021
This is a fairly quick read, and readers will enjoy the way things tie up nicely at the end.
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 4, 2021
When a lad he had spotted her reading a book. A maid in the house he was soon to leave. It was love at first sight. He did learn her name but nothing else. His other love was watches. Taking them apart and putting them back together.
Christian never forgot Raine and had never expected to see her again, but here she was...ten years later at the home of the Duke of Dexter, where he was a guest. He had made his fortune with his watches, but in reality he was the youngest son of a vicar.
Be still my heart is all I can say because Kit won it! A heartwarming romance that promised so much and delivered even more.
Christian never forgot Raine and had never expected to see her again, but here she was...ten years later at the home of the Duke of Dexter, where he was a guest. He had made his fortune with his watches, but in reality he was the youngest son of a vicar.
Be still my heart is all I can say because Kit won it! A heartwarming romance that promised so much and delivered even more.
February 4, 2021
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Thank you to BookSirens for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have a blog review up in a few hours (February 4, 2021 at 10 AM CST) on my blog: Honey Roselea Reads. Here is the link to the review!!
For now, here is a preview to what the review looks like:
❀❀❀❀
After meeting ten years ago, distinguished watchmaker, Christian Bainbridge, meets the woman he fell in love with, Raine Mowbray. The moment Christian noticed her, he knew that she was the one that had stolen his heart and that he had to have her love. Now ten years later, their chance meeting has pushed Christian to realize that she truly was the one.
I gave Tempting the Scoundrel two stars. I found the story in all honesty, somewhat mediocre. This was an insta-love historical romance based in the early 1800s but it just felt like there wasn't anything behind it. Christian found Raine coincidentally...
November 3, 2020
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Book Sirens and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I rarely read novellas. I also rarely read sweet romances.
This was both, and I loved it.
At 15 years of age, Christian Bainbridge sighted the girl he loved and would love forever.
But knowing he had nothing to offer, he left, not even knowing her name, to make his fortune crafting timepieces. Ten years later, renowned for his time-making skills throughout England, Christian comes across his mystery fantasy woman, working as a maid in a home to which he was invited to fix a watch. Now he sees a second chance for them both.
This book was absolutely lovely. I loved Christian. He is smart, sardonic, hot, and brilliant. Famous for knowing his way around watches and wenches, Christian has spent years obsessed over the girl he saw reading and has held every woman up to her ideal. No one has ever been able to hold a candle to her.
Raine Mowbray works as a maid but loves books and intellectual discourse, something she rarely runs across in her daily life. When Christian comes into her life, she feels as if a sudden summer wind has blown across her mind and body, freeing her.
Everything about this novella is perfect.
Even for this enormous book and dark romance lover.
I rarely read novellas. I also rarely read sweet romances.
This was both, and I loved it.
At 15 years of age, Christian Bainbridge sighted the girl he loved and would love forever.
But knowing he had nothing to offer, he left, not even knowing her name, to make his fortune crafting timepieces. Ten years later, renowned for his time-making skills throughout England, Christian comes across his mystery fantasy woman, working as a maid in a home to which he was invited to fix a watch. Now he sees a second chance for them both.
This book was absolutely lovely. I loved Christian. He is smart, sardonic, hot, and brilliant. Famous for knowing his way around watches and wenches, Christian has spent years obsessed over the girl he saw reading and has held every woman up to her ideal. No one has ever been able to hold a candle to her.
Raine Mowbray works as a maid but loves books and intellectual discourse, something she rarely runs across in her daily life. When Christian comes into her life, she feels as if a sudden summer wind has blown across her mind and body, freeing her.
Everything about this novella is perfect.
Even for this enormous book and dark romance lover.
September 23, 2020
Historical fiction at its finest- Tracy Sumner creates characters that are flawed, insecure and perfectly desirable. Her flair for historical romance really adds to the House of Devon series.
House of Devon is all about historical romance but the main characters are those that serve and work downstairs for the lords and ladies of the house. Maids, butlers, and even the young man who comes to repair watches can all fall in love at the House of Devon.
Years ago he sees her and wants her but also needs to escape tbt House they are in and pursue his dream. When he sees her again ten years later, he knows deep within that she is the only one to hold his heart.
Once Kitt falls.... the girl says no and he isn’t sure there’s any way to turn this around. Definitely a fun read, took me just a few hours but I so enjoyed my trip to the House of Devon.
Fun, enjoyable read!!
House of Devon is all about historical romance but the main characters are those that serve and work downstairs for the lords and ladies of the house. Maids, butlers, and even the young man who comes to repair watches can all fall in love at the House of Devon.
Years ago he sees her and wants her but also needs to escape tbt House they are in and pursue his dream. When he sees her again ten years later, he knows deep within that she is the only one to hold his heart.
Once Kitt falls.... the girl says no and he isn’t sure there’s any way to turn this around. Definitely a fun read, took me just a few hours but I so enjoyed my trip to the House of Devon.
Fun, enjoyable read!!
May 4, 2021
This was a solid addition to the series, after its insubstantial predecessors. Both leads were rather enjoyable characters, and they had wonderful chemistry with each other.
That being said, their story was rushed, perhaps to fit the length of the novella. I'm not a fan of the two largest tropes in the book, love at first sight, and forgetting to turn the burner off (or liking someone for years past what makes sense). However, Christian and Raine were charming, and it was interesting to watch her struggle with the power imbalance between them.
Once again, the duke was the most generous person to have walked the earth, and the two of them ended up implausibly happy. The pattern in this series is so obvious it's like a glaring neon sign, but I'm also enjoying the lack of major conflict in any of the books. 3 stars for a great lead couple.
That being said, their story was rushed, perhaps to fit the length of the novella. I'm not a fan of the two largest tropes in the book, love at first sight, and forgetting to turn the burner off (or liking someone for years past what makes sense). However, Christian and Raine were charming, and it was interesting to watch her struggle with the power imbalance between them.
Once again, the duke was the most generous person to have walked the earth, and the two of them ended up implausibly happy. The pattern in this series is so obvious it's like a glaring neon sign, but I'm also enjoying the lack of major conflict in any of the books. 3 stars for a great lead couple.
August 18, 2020
This was such a wonderful story, the kind that makes your heart swell with love. Tracy Sumner manages to write a truly delightful romantic and swoon worthy story in this novella sized book.
I adored Christian, he's such a brilliant and charming character, and I really became fascinated with his watchmaking expertise. I also loved the fact that even though 10 years have passed since he first set eyes on Raine, the love at first sight he felt then is just as strong now. Raine is also a wonderful character and even though at first she fights their attraction because she's "only" a maid and feels below his station, I was happy when she realized none of that mattered if it meant being with your soul mate.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I adored Christian, he's such a brilliant and charming character, and I really became fascinated with his watchmaking expertise. I also loved the fact that even though 10 years have passed since he first set eyes on Raine, the love at first sight he felt then is just as strong now. Raine is also a wonderful character and even though at first she fights their attraction because she's "only" a maid and feels below his station, I was happy when she realized none of that mattered if it meant being with your soul mate.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 14, 2021
It was a nice story, but I wish it was a little longer. I liked the two main characters. Enjoyed reading it. 3.5☆
November 9, 2020
When we first see our hero Christian, he's fifteen and staying at his cousin's house after the loss of his brother. An aspiring watchmaker, he's on his way to an internship that's destined to change his life, when he happens upon a maid, reading a book under the light of an oil lamp and he's instantly smitten. If only he had the courage to speak to her.
Ten years later, the maid, Raine, is now a part of a different household, one that Christian visits to fix a watch or something or other. None of that matters when they come face to face. For Christian, who's been fantasising about her for a decade, it's hard to contain his emotions, while for Raine it's a completely new experience.
Christian is ready to marry her, because no other woman has ever come close to the feeling she gave him and he loves her even more now, but Raine is a bit reluctant, thinking she could bring nothing to the marriage. Do these two have a future?
This book started off promising and sweet but only went downhill from there. Okay, not completely downhill, but from five stars it dropped to four and then to three.
We didn't get to properly meet young Raine, or see inside her head which is fine, her love of books stays constant. But young Christian seemed adorable and then older Christian...I don't get it.
How did that sweet boy become, well THAT? It's not like he had anyone else to lose during the ten year period. And the wenches were a bit excessive.
Raine is his "white whale" so his attraction is justified but I do think he praised her a bit too much for the few words they'd shared. Meanwhile Raine's attraction develops too fast. If she met him or at least SAW him, outside of that one time out of the corner of her eye ten years ago then it would be more believable.
It almost feels as if he loved her, convinced her she loves him and then married her before she had time to think about it. YOU HAD TEN YEARS, SHE HAD THREE DAYS, COME ON.
Regardless, the writing style was nice and I did enjoy this a good amount. The supporting characters were great. I'm also happy that there was no antagonist. I was expecting one near the end because that's just when they appear but when one didn't come I was glad. Their strange fast paced romance didn't deserve to get ruined like that.
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Ten years later, the maid, Raine, is now a part of a different household, one that Christian visits to fix a watch or something or other. None of that matters when they come face to face. For Christian, who's been fantasising about her for a decade, it's hard to contain his emotions, while for Raine it's a completely new experience.
Christian is ready to marry her, because no other woman has ever come close to the feeling she gave him and he loves her even more now, but Raine is a bit reluctant, thinking she could bring nothing to the marriage. Do these two have a future?
This book started off promising and sweet but only went downhill from there. Okay, not completely downhill, but from five stars it dropped to four and then to three.
We didn't get to properly meet young Raine, or see inside her head which is fine, her love of books stays constant. But young Christian seemed adorable and then older Christian...I don't get it.
How did that sweet boy become, well THAT? It's not like he had anyone else to lose during the ten year period. And the wenches were a bit excessive.
Raine is his "white whale" so his attraction is justified but I do think he praised her a bit too much for the few words they'd shared. Meanwhile Raine's attraction develops too fast. If she met him or at least SAW him, outside of that one time out of the corner of her eye ten years ago then it would be more believable.
It almost feels as if he loved her, convinced her she loves him and then married her before she had time to think about it. YOU HAD TEN YEARS, SHE HAD THREE DAYS, COME ON.
Regardless, the writing style was nice and I did enjoy this a good amount. The supporting characters were great. I'm also happy that there was no antagonist. I was expecting one near the end because that's just when they appear but when one didn't come I was glad. Their strange fast paced romance didn't deserve to get ruined like that.
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
September 12, 2020
Tempting the Scoundrel
House of Devon Series #3
Tracy Sumner
https://www.facebook.com/Tracysumnera...
Release date 09/23/2020
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Love at first sight. Steamy second chance. Regency splendor.
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly offered his heart years ago, and he’s never gotten it back. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s amorous attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
If you like spirited heroines who fight falling in love and charmingly arrogant heroes who think they know best, then this is the book for you! Snuggle up with Tempting the Scoundrel, a steamy second chance, love-at-first-sight Regency Romance!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she see past her own misconceived ideas ...
What a lovely tale of wooing the person fated for oneself but determined to Thomson the opposite.
There is no villain in this story, the characters’ personality are their sole enemy as their temper rises like a straw fire with the snap of a finger.
In this short narrative, what was awakened some years ago comes to full completion now, if Raine and Kit arrive to match their feelings on the right level at the same time.
Kit has lived with a dream for ten years, now he has the possibility to change it as a reality if he can keep his mood in check. Raine can’t believe a man so wealthy and renowned would want a lowly housemaid. Why she is ready to let pass her chance.
A sweet and steamy courtship of two persons linked by their love for knowledge.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author through Netgalley, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
House of Devon Series #3
Tracy Sumner
https://www.facebook.com/Tracysumnera...
Release date 09/23/2020
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Love at first sight. Steamy second chance. Regency splendor.
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly offered his heart years ago, and he’s never gotten it back. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others.
Raine Mowbray needs solitude and employment, not love. A housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s amorous attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
If you like spirited heroines who fight falling in love and charmingly arrogant heroes who think they know best, then this is the book for you! Snuggle up with Tempting the Scoundrel, a steamy second chance, love-at-first-sight Regency Romance!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will she see past her own misconceived ideas ...
What a lovely tale of wooing the person fated for oneself but determined to Thomson the opposite.
There is no villain in this story, the characters’ personality are their sole enemy as their temper rises like a straw fire with the snap of a finger.
In this short narrative, what was awakened some years ago comes to full completion now, if Raine and Kit arrive to match their feelings on the right level at the same time.
Kit has lived with a dream for ten years, now he has the possibility to change it as a reality if he can keep his mood in check. Raine can’t believe a man so wealthy and renowned would want a lowly housemaid. Why she is ready to let pass her chance.
A sweet and steamy courtship of two persons linked by their love for knowledge.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author through Netgalley, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
May 13, 2021
Sometimes you just need to read a quick and light romance to break things up a little. Tempting the Scoundrel is just that! The story follows Christian, a popular watchmaker, as he realizes his friend’s maid is the woman of his dreams. Christian first met Raine years ago as a teen but never spoke to her. Now, an accomplished man with more to offer, Christian is ready to take a chance on love. But can he convince Raine that they are meant to be together?
Christian is such a great character! Talented and innovative, he is mainly known for his wenches and watches. He’s never seriously considered a relationship because his heart belongs to the young maid he spied all those years ago. Imagine his delight when he sees Raine at his best friend’s house!
Christian has a curious mind, and he often acts impulsively. He has made a name for himself among watchmakers and is highly coveted for his skill. He is so earnest in his feelings for Raine, and he is determined to convince her that his feelings are long-standing and true. And their chemistry is fantastic from the start!
As a woman and a maid, Raine does not have the same luxuries Christian has. However, she is curious and eager to learn. Intellectual and astute, she loves to read and taught herself many languages. She is a great match for Christian, as they have a lot in common. However, Raine doesn’t know if she can trust his or her feelings. Christian is a well-known rake who has had many lovers and never attaches himself to one woman. He doesn’t seem the type to want a serious, committed, and loyal marriage, which is exactly what Raine wants. Is this really love at first sight? Can Raine believe in a future with Christian?
This is a quick and lovely historical romance with great characters and a wonderful love story. I think it will appeal to readers who want a heartwarming romance that they can read in one sitting. Thanks so much to Tracy Sumner for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Christian is such a great character! Talented and innovative, he is mainly known for his wenches and watches. He’s never seriously considered a relationship because his heart belongs to the young maid he spied all those years ago. Imagine his delight when he sees Raine at his best friend’s house!
Christian has a curious mind, and he often acts impulsively. He has made a name for himself among watchmakers and is highly coveted for his skill. He is so earnest in his feelings for Raine, and he is determined to convince her that his feelings are long-standing and true. And their chemistry is fantastic from the start!
As a woman and a maid, Raine does not have the same luxuries Christian has. However, she is curious and eager to learn. Intellectual and astute, she loves to read and taught herself many languages. She is a great match for Christian, as they have a lot in common. However, Raine doesn’t know if she can trust his or her feelings. Christian is a well-known rake who has had many lovers and never attaches himself to one woman. He doesn’t seem the type to want a serious, committed, and loyal marriage, which is exactly what Raine wants. Is this really love at first sight? Can Raine believe in a future with Christian?
This is a quick and lovely historical romance with great characters and a wonderful love story. I think it will appeal to readers who want a heartwarming romance that they can read in one sitting. Thanks so much to Tracy Sumner for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
January 31, 2022
A Love💘 For All Time ⏰
ADULT Regency with a Second Chance for Romance💕 and Adventure
Christopher🐺 is a young genius with watches and clocks⏰. There is nothing he cannot repair.
His uncle, an Earl of very dubious reputation, takes young clock⏰ prodigy, Christopher🐺, in after his parents die. One 🌙night he spies a young maid reading surreptitiously by lamplight outside, below his window. He is instantly infatuated with her, and knows she is the 💘love of his life, but he never gets the chance to even speak to her. She is gone!
Years later, Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ is very wealthy from all his wealthy clients, which include Prinny👑, the Prince Regent. Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ turned down A knighthood🔪 from him!
A Duke requests Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ come to his estate to fix various clocks⏰ and watches. When he arrives, he finds the very maid he fell in 💘love with working there!
Now is his second chance for happiness, for the 💘love and the woman he has been looking for all his adult life! The maid, Raine💃💋, feels They are too far apart in station, although she loves💘 him too.
ARCs Provided by Booksprout 🌱 and Hidden 💎Gems!I
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful book with a great story! Recommend for all lovers of ADULT Historical Romance💕!
ADULT Regency with a Second Chance for Romance💕 and Adventure
Christopher🐺 is a young genius with watches and clocks⏰. There is nothing he cannot repair.
His uncle, an Earl of very dubious reputation, takes young clock⏰ prodigy, Christopher🐺, in after his parents die. One 🌙night he spies a young maid reading surreptitiously by lamplight outside, below his window. He is instantly infatuated with her, and knows she is the 💘love of his life, but he never gets the chance to even speak to her. She is gone!
Years later, Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ is very wealthy from all his wealthy clients, which include Prinny👑, the Prince Regent. Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ turned down A knighthood🔪 from him!
A Duke requests Christopher🐺🍆⛲⏰ come to his estate to fix various clocks⏰ and watches. When he arrives, he finds the very maid he fell in 💘love with working there!
Now is his second chance for happiness, for the 💘love and the woman he has been looking for all his adult life! The maid, Raine💃💋, feels They are too far apart in station, although she loves💘 him too.
ARCs Provided by Booksprout 🌱 and Hidden 💎Gems!I
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a wonderful book with a great story! Recommend for all lovers of ADULT Historical Romance💕!
September 16, 2020
4.5 Stars
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly fell for a maid a decade ago. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others. Raine Mowbray a housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s amorous attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
A delightful short story with strong characters, I really liked both Kit & Raine who whilst living in the same household for a short time ten years ago they never met. Now whilst Raine is translating documents for Kit he realises she is the woman of his dreams & he’s the man she didn’t realise she'd been looking for. Just pure romance which lifted my spirits & I read in a sitting
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
As the most distinguished watchmaker in England, Christian Bainbridge believes in accurate timepieces, not love. He secretly fell for a maid a decade ago. When Raine Mowbray stumbles into his life again, Christian realizes the woman he’s worshiped from afar is still the woman he desires above all others. Raine Mowbray a housemaid forced to flee a loathsome earl’s grasp, the last thing she’s seeking is a man’s amorous attention. When she finds herself unexpectantly paired with a gorgeous watchmaker in need of an assistant, she’s unnerved by his wit, kindness—and clandestine devotion to her.
A delightful short story with strong characters, I really liked both Kit & Raine who whilst living in the same household for a short time ten years ago they never met. Now whilst Raine is translating documents for Kit he realises she is the woman of his dreams & he’s the man she didn’t realise she'd been looking for. Just pure romance which lifted my spirits & I read in a sitting
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 9, 2021
I will start with saying that I enjoy historical romance books so much. There's something about the time and place when the story is set. The characters in this type of books are different and so special. In this book main characters are Christian , a watchmaker & Raine, a housemaid. I really loved their story, such a beautiful and cute romance.
5/5 🌠
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*
Spoiler alert
Especially the ending, it was the best part, such a great gesture from him to give her that amazing library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelfs. And the watch he gave her, very touching gift 🥺
5/5 🌠
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
*
Spoiler alert
Especially the ending, it was the best part, such a great gesture from him to give her that amazing library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelfs. And the watch he gave her, very touching gift 🥺
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
A total delight to read. A sweet love story of a prominent watchmaker who fell in love at first sight with a house maid when he was fifteen. When he sees her ten years later, he wants nothing but her for his wife. Still a maid, she is hesitant when he pursues her, until he gives her his heart without hesitation. I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 6, 2021
So I definitely didn’t realize that this was the third book in the series when I picked it up! This heart warming whirlwind romance novella was just what I needed today. I zipped through it in just about three hours and I loved every second of it! Now to find the rest of the series...
Though I was given a free ARC from the author, all opinions are my own.
Though I was given a free ARC from the author, all opinions are my own.
February 13, 2021
Tags: middleclass
I found it intriguing that the hero and heroine are not upper-class but the instalove was unfortunate. While the writing was excellent, this story about a Gary and Mary Sue being so fantastically perfect already requires some generous suspension of disbelief. The overall lack of chemistry made it a disappointing read.
I found it intriguing that the hero and heroine are not upper-class but the instalove was unfortunate. While the writing was excellent, this story about a Gary and Mary Sue being so fantastically perfect already requires some generous suspension of disbelief. The overall lack of chemistry made it a disappointing read.
August 16, 2020
Too short and yet, exactly right. Anything longer would have prolonged the pleasure unnecessarily (though I wouldn’t have complained). Were it a longer story, I'd have continued to enjoy it, luxuriating it in the poetic prose of undying and endless love. I’ve barely had enough of these characters. Still, their story has been fully told, no further conflicts upon the horizon, their happily ever after achieved. Now, I'm left to revisit some of the words that tickled my fancy or impressed my imagination.
Sometimes while reading, I'll imagine how something could have been worded differently to add clarity or poetry. Other times, I'll muse on the perfection of the words that were chosen. Tracy Sumner compelled me to do the latter much more so than the former. It was pure joy. There was one scene in particular that caused me to pause and reread it, astounded by the emotions it evoked. I love to quote authors, but I generally try not to be excessive. In this case, however, I find it unavoidable, by this scene alone, reduced to a reader falling in love with a fictional character.
Are you going to marry me, Raine? Not to sound missish, but if you want this”—he nodded to the bedchamber—“you’re going to have to marry me to get it. My body, mind, and soul are yours if you’ll agree to take them. But I won’t ruin you. I won’t. And I can’t share any more of myself and wonder if I’ll get it back. I’m in too deep. He swallowed hard, his sapphire eyes darting to the floor, and she knew with such sweet simplicity that her roguish, complicated, brilliant watchmaker was as delicate of heart as she. “You fear being beholden, but what if I were to tell you I would be wholly beholden as well? What if we are worth more than any promise you made to yourself?” His gaze lifted, his earnestness smoothing away her fear like a plane to rough wood. “I won’t own you in any way you don’t own me.”
Penny, Christian’s “valet” and best friend, adds some welcome comic relief to a story that could have easily wandered into mawkishness with its raw emotions and sentimental romanticism. He offered that nervous laughter that draws you back to reality, reminds you that its best not to lose yourself completely in a fictional love affair, lest you suffer the broken heart. When Christian fumbles his first proposal to Raine, Penny sums it up nicely:
“Ah, I’ve read this play before. You bumble, then Miss Mowbray says something you don’t want to hear, and boom, a sulking, insolent man appears, stage left.”
Christian begrudgingly acknowledges that Penny is correct, admitting: “Then I got angry, and that sulking, insolent bloke you mentioned joined the party. It wasn’t pretty.” I appreciated that Christian didn’t take himself too seriously or think himself some model of perfection. He was also cognizant of Rain’s imperfections and loved her as a complete package, even recognizing that her flaws made her more interesting.
I appreciated that there were no contrived conflicts between Raine and Christian—an avoidable misunderstanding or interference from some nefarious villain intent upon destroying their love. There was no heartbreaking falling out, no grave event that drove them apart. This made the unfolding of their relationship much more relatable and believable. And relaxed. It was enough to have Raine’s internal conflict as the challenge to be overcome. It was sufficient for the enjoyment of their eventual happiness together. And I did enjoy this story. Immensely. I highly recommend it.
Sometimes while reading, I'll imagine how something could have been worded differently to add clarity or poetry. Other times, I'll muse on the perfection of the words that were chosen. Tracy Sumner compelled me to do the latter much more so than the former. It was pure joy. There was one scene in particular that caused me to pause and reread it, astounded by the emotions it evoked. I love to quote authors, but I generally try not to be excessive. In this case, however, I find it unavoidable, by this scene alone, reduced to a reader falling in love with a fictional character.
Are you going to marry me, Raine? Not to sound missish, but if you want this”—he nodded to the bedchamber—“you’re going to have to marry me to get it. My body, mind, and soul are yours if you’ll agree to take them. But I won’t ruin you. I won’t. And I can’t share any more of myself and wonder if I’ll get it back. I’m in too deep. He swallowed hard, his sapphire eyes darting to the floor, and she knew with such sweet simplicity that her roguish, complicated, brilliant watchmaker was as delicate of heart as she. “You fear being beholden, but what if I were to tell you I would be wholly beholden as well? What if we are worth more than any promise you made to yourself?” His gaze lifted, his earnestness smoothing away her fear like a plane to rough wood. “I won’t own you in any way you don’t own me.”
Penny, Christian’s “valet” and best friend, adds some welcome comic relief to a story that could have easily wandered into mawkishness with its raw emotions and sentimental romanticism. He offered that nervous laughter that draws you back to reality, reminds you that its best not to lose yourself completely in a fictional love affair, lest you suffer the broken heart. When Christian fumbles his first proposal to Raine, Penny sums it up nicely:
“Ah, I’ve read this play before. You bumble, then Miss Mowbray says something you don’t want to hear, and boom, a sulking, insolent man appears, stage left.”
Christian begrudgingly acknowledges that Penny is correct, admitting: “Then I got angry, and that sulking, insolent bloke you mentioned joined the party. It wasn’t pretty.” I appreciated that Christian didn’t take himself too seriously or think himself some model of perfection. He was also cognizant of Rain’s imperfections and loved her as a complete package, even recognizing that her flaws made her more interesting.
I appreciated that there were no contrived conflicts between Raine and Christian—an avoidable misunderstanding or interference from some nefarious villain intent upon destroying their love. There was no heartbreaking falling out, no grave event that drove them apart. This made the unfolding of their relationship much more relatable and believable. And relaxed. It was enough to have Raine’s internal conflict as the challenge to be overcome. It was sufficient for the enjoyment of their eventual happiness together. And I did enjoy this story. Immensely. I highly recommend it.
November 10, 2020
Tempting the Scoundrel is part of the House of Devon series with instalments by various authors. The series is different because each book concentrates on the lives and loves of the staff of the Duke of Devon. I haven’t read any of the other stories yet but each book can be read as a stand alone.
10 years ago, Christian Bainbridge fell head over heels in love at first sight with a housemaid working at his distant relative, the Earl of Tavistock’s London residence. Orphaned, with a tenuous link to the aristocracy, Christian needed to make his own way in the world and make something of himself. So he leaves without even speaking to the girl that captivated his heart from afar.
Now, a famous and celebrated watchmaker, Christian has been invited to the Duke of Devon’s country home where he finds the Raine again and realises that she is still the woman that has captured his heart – but can he persuade Raine that the difference in their social ranks can be overcome?
Raine Mowbray has escaped London and fled to sanctuary in the Duke of Devon’s employ. She is fascinated by the arrival of the charismatic watchmaker and unexpectedly asked to assist him with some transcripts whilst he is visiting. She can’t deny her attraction to him or understand his devotion to her. But how can a housemaid marry a man so far above her station?
I loved this story. It was a sweet story of soul mates finding each other. Christian had worked hard and made something of himself but had never forgotten the girl he left behind and what might have been. When he finds Raine again he is determined never to lose her again. I loved him as a hero. He is smart, charming, devoted but the thing I really loved is that he recognised that he needed to offer Raine a choice. He could easily have railroaded her into accepting his suit given the inequality in their stations in life, but he let Raine make her own decision.
Raine is a lovely heroine. She may be a housemaid, but she has educated herself and knows her own worth. She can’t quite believe Christian’s attraction to her since this is actually the first time she has met him but she feels the soul deep pull of recognition.
With this being a novella, you could wish that maybe their story is a little longer, but Tracy has created well rounded characters and you don’t really feel the story is too rushed. With the backstory established you don’t feel its insta love but can understand Christian’s devotion.
I received this as an ARC through BookSirens for an honest review. I would definitely recommend you pick this up.
10 years ago, Christian Bainbridge fell head over heels in love at first sight with a housemaid working at his distant relative, the Earl of Tavistock’s London residence. Orphaned, with a tenuous link to the aristocracy, Christian needed to make his own way in the world and make something of himself. So he leaves without even speaking to the girl that captivated his heart from afar.
Now, a famous and celebrated watchmaker, Christian has been invited to the Duke of Devon’s country home where he finds the Raine again and realises that she is still the woman that has captured his heart – but can he persuade Raine that the difference in their social ranks can be overcome?
Raine Mowbray has escaped London and fled to sanctuary in the Duke of Devon’s employ. She is fascinated by the arrival of the charismatic watchmaker and unexpectedly asked to assist him with some transcripts whilst he is visiting. She can’t deny her attraction to him or understand his devotion to her. But how can a housemaid marry a man so far above her station?
I loved this story. It was a sweet story of soul mates finding each other. Christian had worked hard and made something of himself but had never forgotten the girl he left behind and what might have been. When he finds Raine again he is determined never to lose her again. I loved him as a hero. He is smart, charming, devoted but the thing I really loved is that he recognised that he needed to offer Raine a choice. He could easily have railroaded her into accepting his suit given the inequality in their stations in life, but he let Raine make her own decision.
Raine is a lovely heroine. She may be a housemaid, but she has educated herself and knows her own worth. She can’t quite believe Christian’s attraction to her since this is actually the first time she has met him but she feels the soul deep pull of recognition.
With this being a novella, you could wish that maybe their story is a little longer, but Tracy has created well rounded characters and you don’t really feel the story is too rushed. With the backstory established you don’t feel its insta love but can understand Christian’s devotion.
I received this as an ARC through BookSirens for an honest review. I would definitely recommend you pick this up.
November 9, 2021
Christian Bainbridge is a young man, (15). He came to his uncle's house, he had accepted an apprenticeship in Cambridge. He ran out of money to finish his schooling and he would not ask the earl, his cousin. He was leaving the next day to go to Cambridge and he loved the timepieces. He would become renowned for them. They would work forever, they were that good. He liked watching the maid, read in the evening with an oil lamp on the table next to her. He had found out her name, but that is all. Oh well, he would be gone early tomorrow.
Raine Mowbray was working for the Duke of Devon. At her last place of employment, she had trouble with the earl. She had come to this manor to work. To get away from the earl. They treated her well. A man was standing on the drive talking to the son of the duke. He seemed familiar but she couldn't place him. She had been asked to translate for him. So she saw him the next morning and he told her where they had seen each other.
He had definitely fallen in love with her during that summer ten years ago. When they talked, she began to fall in love, too. This was such a good story. It was romantic while they tried to tell each other the truth. The characters were honest to a fault. But they were a lovely couple. They were serious sometimes but Raine was also witty and fun. But I think Penny was the comic relief. To watch these guys run around and try not to be caught, was humorous, too. It really was a sweet book of their evolving romance. It was a novella and the author couldn't show her full range of skills. As usual, she was spot on with her writing and it was amazing. I highly recommend this tale and it does get a bit steamy. But worth the read.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
Raine Mowbray was working for the Duke of Devon. At her last place of employment, she had trouble with the earl. She had come to this manor to work. To get away from the earl. They treated her well. A man was standing on the drive talking to the son of the duke. He seemed familiar but she couldn't place him. She had been asked to translate for him. So she saw him the next morning and he told her where they had seen each other.
He had definitely fallen in love with her during that summer ten years ago. When they talked, she began to fall in love, too. This was such a good story. It was romantic while they tried to tell each other the truth. The characters were honest to a fault. But they were a lovely couple. They were serious sometimes but Raine was also witty and fun. But I think Penny was the comic relief. To watch these guys run around and try not to be caught, was humorous, too. It really was a sweet book of their evolving romance. It was a novella and the author couldn't show her full range of skills. As usual, she was spot on with her writing and it was amazing. I highly recommend this tale and it does get a bit steamy. But worth the read.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 2, 2020
2/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The premise is intriguing and the writing is good, but I don't think that's enough to make me give this book a rating higher than two stars. I really am not sold to the romance between Christian and Raine. I don't really mind insta-love between the characters in most books, but theirs are too unrealistic and cringe-y for me, I just can't get past that and how their relationship blossom so fast. The characters are also lacking in depth, at least for me. There are mentions of their past and the likes, but those didn't make me feel connected to the characters at all. I also cringe every time it's the hero's point of view I'm reading. His thoughts are so different than most of the books I've read and loved with a guy's POV, and not necessarily in a good way. I don't know why, but I can't take him seriously. If only this book was longer and the author is able to give more depth to the characters and build their relationship slowly, then I would probably like this book more.
Overall, I can see the appeal of this is book to other readers, it's just not for me. I'm the type of reader that if I didn't connect to the main characters and care for their motivations and the likes, I'll probably not connect to the overall story as well.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The premise is intriguing and the writing is good, but I don't think that's enough to make me give this book a rating higher than two stars. I really am not sold to the romance between Christian and Raine. I don't really mind insta-love between the characters in most books, but theirs are too unrealistic and cringe-y for me, I just can't get past that and how their relationship blossom so fast. The characters are also lacking in depth, at least for me. There are mentions of their past and the likes, but those didn't make me feel connected to the characters at all. I also cringe every time it's the hero's point of view I'm reading. His thoughts are so different than most of the books I've read and loved with a guy's POV, and not necessarily in a good way. I don't know why, but I can't take him seriously. If only this book was longer and the author is able to give more depth to the characters and build their relationship slowly, then I would probably like this book more.
Overall, I can see the appeal of this is book to other readers, it's just not for me. I'm the type of reader that if I didn't connect to the main characters and care for their motivations and the likes, I'll probably not connect to the overall story as well.
December 9, 2020
I won this ebook in a Goodreads contest and in return promised an honest review.
Tempting the Scoundrel is the 3rd book in The House of Devon series by different contributing authors. It is a Historical Romance novella with a 2nd Chance, Insta-Love trope.
This book just didn't have enough depth of the characters and as a result caused the story to feel to rushed. It is a short story but IMO it had nowhere else to go but End....
Tempting the Scoundrel is the 3rd book in The House of Devon series by different contributing authors. It is a Historical Romance novella with a 2nd Chance, Insta-Love trope.
This book just didn't have enough depth of the characters and as a result caused the story to feel to rushed. It is a short story but IMO it had nowhere else to go but End....
May 8, 2024
Love at first sight that doesn't resolve for ten years. Neither of these characters are part of the elite, he a watchmaker and she a maid. This is a short spicy read with great characters. The story is a quick read and might be even better if it could be expanded, but it's feel good, happy ending was enjoyable.
September 21, 2020
Ah, to be young again and feel the keen sting of young love!
Tempting the Scoundrel is the 3rd book in the House of Devon series, where each book is by a different author.
One fateful summer Christian Bainbridge's life changes irrevocably. Both his father and brother pass away and he is sent to live with his horrible cousin. The only light in the dark is the fact he won't be there long as he, at 15, has been accepted to be an apprentice with one of the most famous watchmakers around. That is until he spots a young maid reading my lamplight beneath his window. Cue heart-eyes and immediate and unalterable love at first sight. Ten years later as fate has a funny. funny way about her, Christian arrives at the Duke of Devon's to alter and update his timepieces but is in need of a translator to help him decipher some correspondence with a German colleague. And wouldn't you just know, they have newly acquired a maid with education in multiple languages that would be able to help.
Tracy Sumner, in general, has such a way with writing flawed by compelling characters that you can't help but feel with them. And while I would say this book was a little on the lighter and fluffier part of the 'feels' spectrum she usually works within, it is still a solid read. Christian had his moments of petulant childishness... but once he reined it back it and reset his course, well, all was forgiven. Raine was a beautifully strong character who knew the limited environment in which she lived and strove to be content and happy within it. She was wonderfully level headed as compared to many maid-to-princess-type stories we are usually inundated with. Further, she had no desire to be a plaything for some passing rake and stood on her laurels. How I do love strong-minded females!
Being able to watch these two plus some other fun side characters as they danced and bantered into each other's orbit was delightful. I do love some good banter.
The steam was mild to moderate but that is to be expected from a historical romance where our ladies are generally first-timers and kept in the dark regarding bedroom matters. But, again, it was still fun and, well, steamy.
As always, I know I'm in for a good read with Tracy Sumner, whatever she's writing. I definitely recommend for those that love historicals and strong-minded ladies. I am going to be on the hunt for the rest in the House of Devon series (you know, to get an accurate picture of the whole overall story
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Tempting the Scoundrel is the 3rd book in the House of Devon series, where each book is by a different author.
One fateful summer Christian Bainbridge's life changes irrevocably. Both his father and brother pass away and he is sent to live with his horrible cousin. The only light in the dark is the fact he won't be there long as he, at 15, has been accepted to be an apprentice with one of the most famous watchmakers around. That is until he spots a young maid reading my lamplight beneath his window. Cue heart-eyes and immediate and unalterable love at first sight. Ten years later as fate has a funny. funny way about her, Christian arrives at the Duke of Devon's to alter and update his timepieces but is in need of a translator to help him decipher some correspondence with a German colleague. And wouldn't you just know, they have newly acquired a maid with education in multiple languages that would be able to help.
Tracy Sumner, in general, has such a way with writing flawed by compelling characters that you can't help but feel with them. And while I would say this book was a little on the lighter and fluffier part of the 'feels' spectrum she usually works within, it is still a solid read. Christian had his moments of petulant childishness... but once he reined it back it and reset his course, well, all was forgiven. Raine was a beautifully strong character who knew the limited environment in which she lived and strove to be content and happy within it. She was wonderfully level headed as compared to many maid-to-princess-type stories we are usually inundated with. Further, she had no desire to be a plaything for some passing rake and stood on her laurels. How I do love strong-minded females!
Being able to watch these two plus some other fun side characters as they danced and bantered into each other's orbit was delightful. I do love some good banter.
The steam was mild to moderate but that is to be expected from a historical romance where our ladies are generally first-timers and kept in the dark regarding bedroom matters. But, again, it was still fun and, well, steamy.
As always, I know I'm in for a good read with Tracy Sumner, whatever she's writing. I definitely recommend for those that love historicals and strong-minded ladies. I am going to be on the hunt for the rest in the House of Devon series (you know, to get an accurate picture of the whole overall story
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
February 5, 2021
Tempting the Scoundrel is a very quick short story but still romantic and enjoyable.
It’s about second chances and going for what you believe in. there is no conflict or angst in this book at all. It starts with a prologue of the hero spying on a girl from his window ten years earlier. It was love at first sight for him and as he was a penniless 15-year-old, he never did anything about it besides loving her from this distance. Ten years later Christian has grown into a successful watchmaker and by sheer coincidence discovers Raine working as a maid in the house he’s come to fix watches in. In ten years, Christian has learned enough of life to know what he wants and is determined to have the one woman he never forgot. I found that very refreshing and sweet. He didn’t think too much on the consequences or their different stations. He knew he still loved her and decided to act on it by telling her and proposing. Raine was justifiably reluctant. She’s a housemaid and her family are all in servitude to aristocrats. However, she didn’t hesitate for long, recognizing her feelings for Christian and accepting his proposal and love – after advice from good friends around.
I can’t fault the book at all. its well written with witty dialogues and charming scenes. I’ve given four stars though because this story is the type you read about of secondary characters in other books usually. Or as a freebie for this series. It got me interested to read about the other books and the Duke of Devon himself (if he has a book). There was no plot. He loved her. He saw her again. He proposed. She accepted. And they lived happily ever after. The blurb hinted at more to the story than was there. If I had bought this book, I may feel irritated at money wasted.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s about second chances and going for what you believe in. there is no conflict or angst in this book at all. It starts with a prologue of the hero spying on a girl from his window ten years earlier. It was love at first sight for him and as he was a penniless 15-year-old, he never did anything about it besides loving her from this distance. Ten years later Christian has grown into a successful watchmaker and by sheer coincidence discovers Raine working as a maid in the house he’s come to fix watches in. In ten years, Christian has learned enough of life to know what he wants and is determined to have the one woman he never forgot. I found that very refreshing and sweet. He didn’t think too much on the consequences or their different stations. He knew he still loved her and decided to act on it by telling her and proposing. Raine was justifiably reluctant. She’s a housemaid and her family are all in servitude to aristocrats. However, she didn’t hesitate for long, recognizing her feelings for Christian and accepting his proposal and love – after advice from good friends around.
I can’t fault the book at all. its well written with witty dialogues and charming scenes. I’ve given four stars though because this story is the type you read about of secondary characters in other books usually. Or as a freebie for this series. It got me interested to read about the other books and the Duke of Devon himself (if he has a book). There was no plot. He loved her. He saw her again. He proposed. She accepted. And they lived happily ever after. The blurb hinted at more to the story than was there. If I had bought this book, I may feel irritated at money wasted.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 17, 2020
Staying with his cousin, the young Earl of Tavistock, Christian Bainbridge watched as night after night the young housemaid, Raine Mowbray, sat in a dark corner and eagerly read a book. But it didn’t matter that he had never spoken to her since he was leaving for Cambridge the next day to find a way to fund his education in repairing and designing timepieces. The girl looked as lonely as he felt. He shrugged and went back to his work on his cousin’s neglected watch.
Raine looked out the window. There was something familiar about the tall, strikingly handsome man who’d arrived at the estate and now stood outside talking with Lord Jonathan, the Duke of Devon’s eldest son. Christian (“Kit”) had given up on love. The only spark of it had been years ago and he had left before he had ever spoken to the girl. A German watchmaker had sent him a design to work on, but he was not fluent in German and parts of it made no sense at all. But his valet told him a new maid had been hired on here who was fluent in languages. She may be able to help. He would have her services one hour per day while he stayed here. He asked her name… Raine Mobray! Tomorrow morning, he was finally going to meet the woman he’d been in love with for ten years. And although Raine is attracted to Christian, he is far above her station. He is a very rich and well known watchmaker. So she regretfully must push him away. Will Christian give up on his second chance to claim the woman he has always loved? Or will he convince her that they are meant to be?
I loved this story about a determined watchmaker who fell in love at the age of 15. Now given an opportunity to tell her how he feels, will he be convincing? Grab your copy and see if a HEA is waiting for Christian and Raine this time.
Raine looked out the window. There was something familiar about the tall, strikingly handsome man who’d arrived at the estate and now stood outside talking with Lord Jonathan, the Duke of Devon’s eldest son. Christian (“Kit”) had given up on love. The only spark of it had been years ago and he had left before he had ever spoken to the girl. A German watchmaker had sent him a design to work on, but he was not fluent in German and parts of it made no sense at all. But his valet told him a new maid had been hired on here who was fluent in languages. She may be able to help. He would have her services one hour per day while he stayed here. He asked her name… Raine Mobray! Tomorrow morning, he was finally going to meet the woman he’d been in love with for ten years. And although Raine is attracted to Christian, he is far above her station. He is a very rich and well known watchmaker. So she regretfully must push him away. Will Christian give up on his second chance to claim the woman he has always loved? Or will he convince her that they are meant to be?
I loved this story about a determined watchmaker who fell in love at the age of 15. Now given an opportunity to tell her how he feels, will he be convincing? Grab your copy and see if a HEA is waiting for Christian and Raine this time.
September 17, 2020
Staying with his cousin, the young Earl of Tavistock, Christian Bainbridge watched as night after night the young housemaid, Raine Mowbray, sat in a dark corner and eagerly read a book. But it didn’t matter that he had never spoken to her since he was leaving for Cambridge the next day to find a way to fund his education in repairing and designing timepieces. The girl looked as lonely as he felt. He shrugged and went back to his work on his cousin’s neglected watch.
Raine looked out the window. There was something familiar about the tall, strikingly handsome man who’d arrived at the estate and now stood outside talking with Lord Jonathan, the Duke of Devon’s eldest son. Christian (“Kit”) had given up on love. The only spark of it had been years ago and he had left before he had ever spoken to the girl. A German watchmaker had sent him a design to work on, but he was not fluent in German and parts of it made no sense at all. But his valet told him a new maid had been hired on here who was fluent in languages. She may be able to help. He would have her services one hour per day while he stayed here. He asked her name… Raine Mobray! Tomorrow morning, he was finally going to meet the woman he’d been in love with for ten years. And although Raine is attracted to Christian, he is far above her station. He is a very rich and well known watchmaker. So she regretfully must push him away. Will Christian give up on his second chance to claim the woman he has always loved? Or will he convince her that they are meant to be?
I loved this story about a determined watchmaker who fell in love at the age of 15. Now given an opportunity to tell her how he feels, will he be convincing? Grab your copy and see if a HEA is waiting for Christian and Raine this time.
Raine looked out the window. There was something familiar about the tall, strikingly handsome man who’d arrived at the estate and now stood outside talking with Lord Jonathan, the Duke of Devon’s eldest son. Christian (“Kit”) had given up on love. The only spark of it had been years ago and he had left before he had ever spoken to the girl. A German watchmaker had sent him a design to work on, but he was not fluent in German and parts of it made no sense at all. But his valet told him a new maid had been hired on here who was fluent in languages. She may be able to help. He would have her services one hour per day while he stayed here. He asked her name… Raine Mobray! Tomorrow morning, he was finally going to meet the woman he’d been in love with for ten years. And although Raine is attracted to Christian, he is far above her station. He is a very rich and well known watchmaker. So she regretfully must push him away. Will Christian give up on his second chance to claim the woman he has always loved? Or will he convince her that they are meant to be?
I loved this story about a determined watchmaker who fell in love at the age of 15. Now given an opportunity to tell her how he feels, will he be convincing? Grab your copy and see if a HEA is waiting for Christian and Raine this time.
September 24, 2020
Just love me. That's all I ask of you.
The famous watchmaker in all of England, Christian Brainbridge, is staying with his cousin, the Earl of Tavistock when he loses his family to Cholera. He is heartbroken and lonely. His only consolation is when he sees the girl at the veranda reading. The same girl he's seen for ten years now and secretly loves but never talked to. Raine Mowbry is the maid at the estate. She’s smart and sassy and definitely knows that she is below Christian Brainbridge’s station in life and will never be accepted. Raine doesn't believe Christian when he tells her he loves her and doesn't care about the ”Ton.” Christian continues to insist that he loves her and asks her to marry him. Raine refuses and continues to argue that she will not be accepted by his peers. Christian still insists and Raine doesn't talk to Christian so she can think about his proposal. I loved this book! I think it was too short. I needed another few chapters. Lol, I didn't want to let it go. Lol, I loved the characters. They weren't what you would think. Christian was a part of the nobility however, he didn't take himself so seriously. He was funny and kind of laid back. Raine was smart, self-confident, sassy, and realistic. Raine’s refusal of Christian’s first proposal is not to be missed. It was so real. Lol. It made me laugh. Also, the Earl; Christian’s Cousin was a great wingman to Christian. Lol. I can't get enough of Tracy Sumner’s books. This is the fourth or fifth book I've read by this author and will not be my last. I guess I'm a fan. I received a complimentary copy of this book from HIDDEN GEMS. I'm writing this review voluntarily.
The famous watchmaker in all of England, Christian Brainbridge, is staying with his cousin, the Earl of Tavistock when he loses his family to Cholera. He is heartbroken and lonely. His only consolation is when he sees the girl at the veranda reading. The same girl he's seen for ten years now and secretly loves but never talked to. Raine Mowbry is the maid at the estate. She’s smart and sassy and definitely knows that she is below Christian Brainbridge’s station in life and will never be accepted. Raine doesn't believe Christian when he tells her he loves her and doesn't care about the ”Ton.” Christian continues to insist that he loves her and asks her to marry him. Raine refuses and continues to argue that she will not be accepted by his peers. Christian still insists and Raine doesn't talk to Christian so she can think about his proposal. I loved this book! I think it was too short. I needed another few chapters. Lol, I didn't want to let it go. Lol, I loved the characters. They weren't what you would think. Christian was a part of the nobility however, he didn't take himself so seriously. He was funny and kind of laid back. Raine was smart, self-confident, sassy, and realistic. Raine’s refusal of Christian’s first proposal is not to be missed. It was so real. Lol. It made me laugh. Also, the Earl; Christian’s Cousin was a great wingman to Christian. Lol. I can't get enough of Tracy Sumner’s books. This is the fourth or fifth book I've read by this author and will not be my last. I guess I'm a fan. I received a complimentary copy of this book from HIDDEN GEMS. I'm writing this review voluntarily.
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