What do you think?
Rate this book
Wantons of Waverton #1
Someone Wanton His Way Comes
Christi Caldwell, USA Today bestselling author of the Wicked Wallflowers series, invites you to join London’s most scandalous society in a witty romance of love, rebellion, and second chances.
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton is out to save young ladies from the terrible fate of love and marriage. Her former husband has retained his reputation as an honorable and loving man in death, but Sylvia has privately mourned his lies and infidelity. Joined by two equally scorned and cast-off friends, Sylvia establishes the Mismatch Society. With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now, he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
This meeting of the Mismatch Society is called to order…
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton is out to save young ladies from the terrible fate of love and marriage. Her former husband has retained his reputation as an honorable and loving man in death, but Sylvia has privately mourned his lies and infidelity. Joined by two equally scorned and cast-off friends, Sylvia establishes the Mismatch Society. With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now, he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
This meeting of the Mismatch Society is called to order…
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2021
632 people are currently reading
1989 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,566 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
April 18, 2021
This book is so tedious. The plot is ridiculous and so unbelievable. The heroine, Sylvia, is a widow with a flaky husband so she decides to encourage all women to forgo marriage altogether. Umm, what? Maybe teach women to be more assertive or help match them to gentlemen who will be good husbands. Nope. Women shouldn’t get married because all men suck. Really?? I can’t seriously believe all women would actually go along with this. Also, how will all of these single women support themselves. Does Sylvia think their families will want to or even can support them for the rest of their lives? I’m not sure how likely it is for all of them to get jobs to support themselves. Will Sylvia be supporting all of them for the rest of their lives? Just. So. Stupid. Then they are like oh their fathers and brothers will marry. Who will they be marrying if all women should avoid marriages? Their horses? I can’t with this plot. I get why Sylvia is the way she is but come on! Your answer to your stupid husband’s actions is to ban marriage altogether? That is the best idea you had?
There were several references to prior books in other series. I was hoping with this being the first book in this series I wouldn’t have an issue following along but I was so confused. First of all, if you plan to read the other series of books related to these characters then you are warned of spoilers. There were also a lot of characters that I had no connection to and couldn’t pick them out of a crowd.
I was so excited to read my first Christi Caldwell book but this may be my first and last sadly.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
There were several references to prior books in other series. I was hoping with this being the first book in this series I wouldn’t have an issue following along but I was so confused. First of all, if you plan to read the other series of books related to these characters then you are warned of spoilers. There were also a lot of characters that I had no connection to and couldn’t pick them out of a crowd.
I was so excited to read my first Christi Caldwell book but this may be my first and last sadly.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
dnf
February 15, 202238% Huh???
April 22, 2021
Women taking a stand!
A young woman is trying to keep her life together after discovering her dead husband Norman Prescott, the Earl of Norfolk, was on the verge of leaving her.
The dead man’s closest friend from Eton days, Clayton Kearsley, Viscount St. John, realises he hasn’t honored his friend Norfolk’s request to look after his wife Sylvia, along with her son, despite his anger with Norfolk.
Meanwhile Lady Sylvia Caufield, the Countess of Norfolk, has taken up residence with two other women, Lady Annalee and Valerie Bragger. The two women living with Sylvia have come there by an interesting route. They are considered outrageous. Along with other women they form an association, the Mismatch Society, to take a stand against women being bartered in marriage. Amongst them are some of Clayton’s sisters and his mother. Of course this becomes scandalous. So much so that Sylvia’s in laws see this as a way to getting access to their grandchild (and there’s a mystery around this).
To me the pièce de résistance is Clayton's relationship with his mother and sisters, especially his youngest sister, Eris. She’s just fabulous. Some of the scenes between them are just too precious for words.
As a bonus we have the women of Clayton’s family wanting him to marry before a family curse leaves them stranded, Sylvia trying to protect herself and her son, various women doing the Regency equivalent of the Me Too Movement, and Clayton in love with Sylvia.
Women from the Lost Lords of London form part of the group. Lila is Sylvia’s sister met in ‘In the Dark with the Duke,’ along her friend Lady Annalee. This series opens up a whole new suite of plots.
A Regency romantic comedy, with an underlying serious dilemma, a second chance trope inclusion, and women taking a stand.
Great beginning!
A Montlake ARC via NetGalley
A young woman is trying to keep her life together after discovering her dead husband Norman Prescott, the Earl of Norfolk, was on the verge of leaving her.
The dead man’s closest friend from Eton days, Clayton Kearsley, Viscount St. John, realises he hasn’t honored his friend Norfolk’s request to look after his wife Sylvia, along with her son, despite his anger with Norfolk.
Meanwhile Lady Sylvia Caufield, the Countess of Norfolk, has taken up residence with two other women, Lady Annalee and Valerie Bragger. The two women living with Sylvia have come there by an interesting route. They are considered outrageous. Along with other women they form an association, the Mismatch Society, to take a stand against women being bartered in marriage. Amongst them are some of Clayton’s sisters and his mother. Of course this becomes scandalous. So much so that Sylvia’s in laws see this as a way to getting access to their grandchild (and there’s a mystery around this).
To me the pièce de résistance is Clayton's relationship with his mother and sisters, especially his youngest sister, Eris. She’s just fabulous. Some of the scenes between them are just too precious for words.
As a bonus we have the women of Clayton’s family wanting him to marry before a family curse leaves them stranded, Sylvia trying to protect herself and her son, various women doing the Regency equivalent of the Me Too Movement, and Clayton in love with Sylvia.
Women from the Lost Lords of London form part of the group. Lila is Sylvia’s sister met in ‘In the Dark with the Duke,’ along her friend Lady Annalee. This series opens up a whole new suite of plots.
A Regency romantic comedy, with an underlying serious dilemma, a second chance trope inclusion, and women taking a stand.
Great beginning!
A Montlake ARC via NetGalley
April 19, 2021
After a terrible experience married to a husband who loved another, widowed Lady Sylvia Elton is determined to claim her independence and keep other young ladies from making the same mistakes. Her late husband’s reputation remains pristine in his absence while Sylvia suffers the damage wrought by his infidelity. When Sylvia establishes her own household with two other ladies, her bid for freedom leads to the accidental inception of the Mismatch Society. As their membership grows, the male half of the peerage finds their betrothals broken and marital prospects dashed, wreaking havoc and heartbreak on the structure of Society. Sylvia has many men at her door demanding answers and collecting female family members, but she’s shocked when one of them turns out to be her old friend, Viscount St. John.
Clayton Kearsley, Viscount St. John, needs to marry to ensure his mother and six younger sisters are secure when he’s gone, so he needs to stop the damage being wrought on the marriage mart. He’s surprised to find the leader of this subversion is his childhood best friend’s widow, a lovely woman he has cared for since the moment he met her. Believing himself unworthy of her and cursed to die young, Clayton introduced her to his best friend, a well-meant action he now deeply regrets, and which causes him to feel responsible for the hurt she has endured.
Now, brought back into her orbit, Clayton is determined to reason with Sylvia and tamp down his ever-present attraction to her. But if he could drum up the nerve to be honest with her about his feelings and convince her to let down her guard, they could both find happiness they only dreamed of.
I have been so looking forward to Sylvia’s story after how she was hurt by her clueless first husband, and I loved that Clayton had loved her and pined for her all along. That said, as Clayton himself notes, there is a sadness that comes with that when thinking of all the time they wasted. Otherwise, this book was incredibly heavy on its denigration of men and rather light on the romance. I liked that Clayton was such a good sport and a genuinely good man, and I never felt like his character was emasculated, though I do wish he’d stood up for himself a bit more. The way Clayton was treated by his mother and sisters was just wrong and callous on their parts. He was stressed about their futures, finances, and welfare and they couldn’t have cared less about his happiness as long as they got their freedom.
I wanted more balance here. There was entirely too much reiteration on Sylvia’s part of her intention to never marry again and all the reasons she was against it. Similarly, Clayton’s own inner monologues on all the reasons he could never be with Sylvia were overdone and both of these themes got extremely repetitive. In her outbursts at society meetings, Sylvia merely reminded me of a child showing off in front of friends with all her vehement railing against marriage than as a mature and critically thinking woman. The concept of the Society was a good one with several solid points, but they had just as many that were nonsensical and their insistence that men should marry to secure their families rather than women marrying made no sense. If women were to cease marrying altogether, just who were these men to be left with?? The woman didn’t want to be judged or stereotyped by men even as they hypocritically judged and stereotyped men and their treatment of ladies who were married or wished to marry was definitely not inclusive. These were just a couple fatal flaws in the argument that made me annoyed with the society as a whole, but I’ve never been one to have many female friends so maybe that’s part of my issue. I don’t disagree with all the points made by the Society, but many of their arguments were just impractical and nonsensical and had me rolling my eyes at them and their lack of foresight.
It was also frustrating to me that Sylvia constantly affirms how good of a man Clayton is and defends him to the other ladies, yet she still doubts him when it comes to his interactions with her. I thought Clayton was truly a good and honorable man and he deserved better from all the females around him, especially Sylvia. I think many of these scenes, especially the banter between Clayton’s truly odd sisters, were meant to be humorous but they were just a bit annoying to me and slowed the flow of the story. Given how serious and slightly dark this author’s books tend to be, the lightness and comedy of this one was unexpected and rather lost on me. The contradictions in the women’s arguments made this story seem rather convoluted to me and I think Sylvia’s character was let down a bit here and her behavior didn’t match up with the Sylvia I liked as a supporting character in previous books.
Overall, this was a solid second chance story between Sylvia and Clayton, but I wanted more romance, and especially to see Sylvia giving more and being warmer toward Clayton. The ending and resolution of the villain also felt rushed after the tedium of the first half of the book and could’ve been detailed a bit more. Also, though this is the first book in a new series, it does contain spoilers for the previous series, The Lost Lords of London, and I’d recommend reading that series first. All in all, this was a sound story with a satisfying ending, but I would’ve loved to see more development from Sylvia earlier on in the story, more appreciation for Clayton, and less of a farce with the ladies.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Clayton Kearsley, Viscount St. John, needs to marry to ensure his mother and six younger sisters are secure when he’s gone, so he needs to stop the damage being wrought on the marriage mart. He’s surprised to find the leader of this subversion is his childhood best friend’s widow, a lovely woman he has cared for since the moment he met her. Believing himself unworthy of her and cursed to die young, Clayton introduced her to his best friend, a well-meant action he now deeply regrets, and which causes him to feel responsible for the hurt she has endured.
Now, brought back into her orbit, Clayton is determined to reason with Sylvia and tamp down his ever-present attraction to her. But if he could drum up the nerve to be honest with her about his feelings and convince her to let down her guard, they could both find happiness they only dreamed of.
I have been so looking forward to Sylvia’s story after how she was hurt by her clueless first husband, and I loved that Clayton had loved her and pined for her all along. That said, as Clayton himself notes, there is a sadness that comes with that when thinking of all the time they wasted. Otherwise, this book was incredibly heavy on its denigration of men and rather light on the romance. I liked that Clayton was such a good sport and a genuinely good man, and I never felt like his character was emasculated, though I do wish he’d stood up for himself a bit more. The way Clayton was treated by his mother and sisters was just wrong and callous on their parts. He was stressed about their futures, finances, and welfare and they couldn’t have cared less about his happiness as long as they got their freedom.
I wanted more balance here. There was entirely too much reiteration on Sylvia’s part of her intention to never marry again and all the reasons she was against it. Similarly, Clayton’s own inner monologues on all the reasons he could never be with Sylvia were overdone and both of these themes got extremely repetitive. In her outbursts at society meetings, Sylvia merely reminded me of a child showing off in front of friends with all her vehement railing against marriage than as a mature and critically thinking woman. The concept of the Society was a good one with several solid points, but they had just as many that were nonsensical and their insistence that men should marry to secure their families rather than women marrying made no sense. If women were to cease marrying altogether, just who were these men to be left with?? The woman didn’t want to be judged or stereotyped by men even as they hypocritically judged and stereotyped men and their treatment of ladies who were married or wished to marry was definitely not inclusive. These were just a couple fatal flaws in the argument that made me annoyed with the society as a whole, but I’ve never been one to have many female friends so maybe that’s part of my issue. I don’t disagree with all the points made by the Society, but many of their arguments were just impractical and nonsensical and had me rolling my eyes at them and their lack of foresight.
It was also frustrating to me that Sylvia constantly affirms how good of a man Clayton is and defends him to the other ladies, yet she still doubts him when it comes to his interactions with her. I thought Clayton was truly a good and honorable man and he deserved better from all the females around him, especially Sylvia. I think many of these scenes, especially the banter between Clayton’s truly odd sisters, were meant to be humorous but they were just a bit annoying to me and slowed the flow of the story. Given how serious and slightly dark this author’s books tend to be, the lightness and comedy of this one was unexpected and rather lost on me. The contradictions in the women’s arguments made this story seem rather convoluted to me and I think Sylvia’s character was let down a bit here and her behavior didn’t match up with the Sylvia I liked as a supporting character in previous books.
Overall, this was a solid second chance story between Sylvia and Clayton, but I wanted more romance, and especially to see Sylvia giving more and being warmer toward Clayton. The ending and resolution of the villain also felt rushed after the tedium of the first half of the book and could’ve been detailed a bit more. Also, though this is the first book in a new series, it does contain spoilers for the previous series, The Lost Lords of London, and I’d recommend reading that series first. All in all, this was a sound story with a satisfying ending, but I would’ve loved to see more development from Sylvia earlier on in the story, more appreciation for Clayton, and less of a farce with the ladies.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 8, 2021
My opinion - sorry to a favourite author of mine for this - but cull the first few chapters down to a few meaningful paragraphs and cut superfluous side characters. The huge amount of unfinished sentences (when other characters cut in), would be humourous and entertaining if you were watching a movie or TV show, but I found it annoying to read. I'm 12% in and the story is confusing to say the least and to say the worst, I'm ready to stop reading. It's taken me ages just to get to chapter three.
The impression of the plot so far is:- 1) that the women in this book hate men, so they set up a society to whinge and figure out how to get rid of them. 2) The hero seems overwhelmed by his mother and six sisters, but is a nice guy. 3) The heroine (a widowed countess) has set up house together with a couple of scandalous, single women. Seriously? 4) Women are breaking off engagements and marriages left right and centre so they can be independent, 😫, therefore effectively closing the marriage mart. 5) Wallpaper historical not to be taken in any way seriously. 6) I think this is supposed to be a comedy.
This is a HR set in 1829 England and perhaps the author should have rolled her story forward a few decades for it to be a tiny bit more believable. This is marketed as book one in a new series which is why I requested it from NetGalley. Unfortunately the author has just dropped spoilers from the previous series, which I haven't finished yet! The dialogue at times is completely buried within narration and I'm having to re-read sections to understand who is talking to whom. Very confusing. This book needs the KISS treatment and I found many scenes choppy. At 13% I've decided to skim to get to an interesting part that makes sense, because chapter three is full of male secondary characters that are making my head swim as well.
20% in and the H/h have not yet met, there is denigration of men and relationships aplenty buried in this 'comedy' and I'm going to go read something else I like better. Sorry about that. The writing within itself is very good and it's meant to be a LOL comedy, but for me it simply didn't work. My thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the eArc in return for my opinion. I may well pick this book back up at a later date, but for now, it's not my cup of tea. I have no intention of stopping reading this author's work as I usually adore her books. You may love this story, so please give it a try and don't let my review influence you.
The impression of the plot so far is:- 1) that the women in this book hate men, so they set up a society to whinge and figure out how to get rid of them. 2) The hero seems overwhelmed by his mother and six sisters, but is a nice guy. 3) The heroine (a widowed countess) has set up house together with a couple of scandalous, single women. Seriously? 4) Women are breaking off engagements and marriages left right and centre so they can be independent, 😫, therefore effectively closing the marriage mart. 5) Wallpaper historical not to be taken in any way seriously. 6) I think this is supposed to be a comedy.
This is a HR set in 1829 England and perhaps the author should have rolled her story forward a few decades for it to be a tiny bit more believable. This is marketed as book one in a new series which is why I requested it from NetGalley. Unfortunately the author has just dropped spoilers from the previous series, which I haven't finished yet! The dialogue at times is completely buried within narration and I'm having to re-read sections to understand who is talking to whom. Very confusing. This book needs the KISS treatment and I found many scenes choppy. At 13% I've decided to skim to get to an interesting part that makes sense, because chapter three is full of male secondary characters that are making my head swim as well.
20% in and the H/h have not yet met, there is denigration of men and relationships aplenty buried in this 'comedy' and I'm going to go read something else I like better. Sorry about that. The writing within itself is very good and it's meant to be a LOL comedy, but for me it simply didn't work. My thanks go to NetGalley and the publisher for the eArc in return for my opinion. I may well pick this book back up at a later date, but for now, it's not my cup of tea. I have no intention of stopping reading this author's work as I usually adore her books. You may love this story, so please give it a try and don't let my review influence you.
April 22, 2021
Someone Wanton His Way Comes by Christi Caldwell
Wantons of Waverton #1
I read the first chapter and thought…Really?
I read on and thought…unbelievable and wouldn’t have happened in that era at allll
I skimmed further and …further…and then thought…SPOOF?
I read the end and back in the middle and…
Was disappointed.
That said: Every other book I have read by this author was perfection and made me want to read more and that is just the reason I requested this book. I think this book, as a spoof, might work but should be labeled as such. I can’t see Sylvia being in a house with the women she chose to live with, being allowed to raise her son in that setting, having that much impact on the women she set her society up with…so much just didn’t seem plausible or possible. I didn’t relate to the characters or the story and was sad about that, too. Since I have read and loved other books by this author I will try another book by Ms Caldwell in the future, but perhaps not one in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC – This is my honest review.
1-2 Stars
Wantons of Waverton #1
I read the first chapter and thought…Really?
I read on and thought…unbelievable and wouldn’t have happened in that era at allll
I skimmed further and …further…and then thought…SPOOF?
I read the end and back in the middle and…
Was disappointed.
That said: Every other book I have read by this author was perfection and made me want to read more and that is just the reason I requested this book. I think this book, as a spoof, might work but should be labeled as such. I can’t see Sylvia being in a house with the women she chose to live with, being allowed to raise her son in that setting, having that much impact on the women she set her society up with…so much just didn’t seem plausible or possible. I didn’t relate to the characters or the story and was sad about that, too. Since I have read and loved other books by this author I will try another book by Ms Caldwell in the future, but perhaps not one in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC – This is my honest review.
1-2 Stars
August 10, 2023
Poor Sylvia believes her husband loves her when they marry but it turns out he is the worst. He doesn’t love her, he loves his mistress and plans to leave her. At least that’s what he tells his best friend Clayton who (surprise, surprise) has been in love with a Sylvia forever so he is pissed.
Sylvia’s husband dies tragically (although I wasn’t sad about it) and now Sylvia never wants to remarry. I applauded this. She also wants to be independent so she moves out of her parents who with some not well respected women and they start a society for women who don’t wish to marry. This cause trouble of course bc women are supposed to marry 🙄🙄🙄🙄
Chaos and love ensue!
Sylvia’s husband dies tragically (although I wasn’t sad about it) and now Sylvia never wants to remarry. I applauded this. She also wants to be independent so she moves out of her parents who with some not well respected women and they start a society for women who don’t wish to marry. This cause trouble of course bc women are supposed to marry 🙄🙄🙄🙄
Chaos and love ensue!
April 16, 2021
Someone Wanton His Way Comes
Wantons of Waverton Book 1
Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist...
Release Date 04/20/2021
Publisher Montlake
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08F9NRYTF/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton is out to save young ladies from the terrible fate of love and marriage. Her former husband has retained his reputation as an honorable and loving man in death, but Sylvia has privately mourned his lies and infidelity. Joined by two equally scorned and cast-off friends, Sylvia establishes the Mismatch Society. With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
This meeting of the Mismatch Society is called to order…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to let go of their fears to look forward to what could be ...
This book was such a delightful scrumptious meal to savor.
From the moment the many sisters of Clayton are introduced to their meddling way, I just loved them and can’t wait to see them starring in other stories.
How little Eris is a delight, every peculiar girl to woman in the Kearsley household is a pleasure to read about. They are a breath of fresh air, bringing joy and fun in their stake all the while breaking havoc.
Clayton is such a sweetheart, a man out of his time, progressivist, respectful and loving.
I love his relationship with his sisters, he adapts his speech or attitude upon which of his siblings he is addressing.
Weird such a down to earth grown man believes to be cursed, maybe his Scottish blood. Yet it became truly a curse as it prevents him to marry the love of his life.
Still, once he lets go some of his fears and guilt, he is a man every woman can rely on, he stands by et offers his support, not one to take all the light, more one to share.
Sylvia had her trust shattered but she emerged from her inner ruin stronger. So it is time for her to set her own pace and find a different purpose. And while everything began as an accidental misunderstanding, it set in motion her new journey.
She will be the face of her group of assembled women looking for a different path, determined to follow their own edicts.
So when she rekindles her easy friendship with Clayton, she slowly revisits her own preconceived opinions. But will it be enough to sway her about marriage and the place of women in it.
This read is a bit lighter than the last books I have read by the author, I quite welcomed the change, even better it offers closure to a previous story.
I loved how every situation is turned into something different and then leads to an unexpected result. Alternating between light banters and funny situations to debates and more serious instances or sensual times.
I devoured it in no time.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Montlake, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Wantons of Waverton Book 1
Christi Caldwell
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrist...
Release Date 04/20/2021
Publisher Montlake
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08F9NRYTF/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton is out to save young ladies from the terrible fate of love and marriage. Her former husband has retained his reputation as an honorable and loving man in death, but Sylvia has privately mourned his lies and infidelity. Joined by two equally scorned and cast-off friends, Sylvia establishes the Mismatch Society. With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
This meeting of the Mismatch Society is called to order…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to let go of their fears to look forward to what could be ...
This book was such a delightful scrumptious meal to savor.
From the moment the many sisters of Clayton are introduced to their meddling way, I just loved them and can’t wait to see them starring in other stories.
How little Eris is a delight, every peculiar girl to woman in the Kearsley household is a pleasure to read about. They are a breath of fresh air, bringing joy and fun in their stake all the while breaking havoc.
Clayton is such a sweetheart, a man out of his time, progressivist, respectful and loving.
I love his relationship with his sisters, he adapts his speech or attitude upon which of his siblings he is addressing.
Weird such a down to earth grown man believes to be cursed, maybe his Scottish blood. Yet it became truly a curse as it prevents him to marry the love of his life.
Still, once he lets go some of his fears and guilt, he is a man every woman can rely on, he stands by et offers his support, not one to take all the light, more one to share.
Sylvia had her trust shattered but she emerged from her inner ruin stronger. So it is time for her to set her own pace and find a different purpose. And while everything began as an accidental misunderstanding, it set in motion her new journey.
She will be the face of her group of assembled women looking for a different path, determined to follow their own edicts.
So when she rekindles her easy friendship with Clayton, she slowly revisits her own preconceived opinions. But will it be enough to sway her about marriage and the place of women in it.
This read is a bit lighter than the last books I have read by the author, I quite welcomed the change, even better it offers closure to a previous story.
I loved how every situation is turned into something different and then leads to an unexpected result. Alternating between light banters and funny situations to debates and more serious instances or sensual times.
I devoured it in no time.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Montlake, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
January 31, 2021
Received an ARC from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I liked the premise as outlined in the blurb but I'm sorry to say I thought the execution was poor and the storytelling was far too much 'telling' and not enough 'showing.
The hero believed in a curse that said he'd die young, so he allowed his friend to marry the girl he loved. The husband was awful and left her but then was killed. In the meantime, the heroine is working with this organization to stop young girls being abused by the marriage mart situation. I found all of that side of the story to be wildly improbable and rather boring.
There seemed to be far too many characters and far too much meandering. I'm sorry but I just couldn't get into this - I found the characters unengaging. Not my cup of tea I'm afraid.
I liked the premise as outlined in the blurb but I'm sorry to say I thought the execution was poor and the storytelling was far too much 'telling' and not enough 'showing.
The hero believed in a curse that said he'd die young, so he allowed his friend to marry the girl he loved. The husband was awful and left her but then was killed. In the meantime, the heroine is working with this organization to stop young girls being abused by the marriage mart situation. I found all of that side of the story to be wildly improbable and rather boring.
There seemed to be far too many characters and far too much meandering. I'm sorry but I just couldn't get into this - I found the characters unengaging. Not my cup of tea I'm afraid.
June 5, 2021
Ladies of The Ton have had enough, they are fighting back against preconceived society standards and the necessity of marriage. I mean what could go wrong?
This book has one of my favorite things — Good Ol’ UST (Unresolved Sexual Tension)— This author knows how to tease both her readers and her characters in a deliciously wicked way! Loved.Every.Word.
This is my first time reading author Christi Caldwell and I will definitely be back for more! Someone Wanton His Way Comes is book one in her new series The Wantons of Waverton and these stories are set in 1829 London specifically Mayfair. Mayfair during this timeframe was a new district in London that was being flocked to by all the fashionable upper class society. The Ton or le bon ton, which directly translates to "good form" or "etiquette." In this case, "good etiquette" means "good breeding," aka the upper crust of high society has made Mayfair their own by this timeframe. There is nothing this group likes more than the latest gossip, there were even gossip sheets printed daily to help spread the word, and this story gives The Ton plenty of fodder!
So bear with me here as we review a little history. Because society played such an important role in this story it helps to understand that during this timeframe, the end of The Georgian period also known as The Regency Period. During The Regency Period fashion, etiquette, manners, social customs, and many other aspects of social life were all dictated by The Ton. The life of a Ton member was highly structured, social acceptance was crucial, and largely based on birth and family standing, and acceptable social behaviors were different for men and women. A woman could ruin her chances of being accepted during The Season by going against accepted social standards.
Her behavior creates quite the stir and before she knows it other women are coming to her house asking to be a part of the new society she is building. Amazing huh? Be that as it may a society or club is formed, a society of women rebelling against marriage, The Mismatch Society.
The gentleman MC is Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, and he is known amongst society as a respectable, polite, and handsome catch. Yet he has remained unmarried - as the right lady has not been available. You see he has carried a torch for Lady Sylvia for several years. Him and Sylvia became friends long ago; However, Clayton believes himself cursed so he pushed Sylvia towards his friend. Clayton never got over his love of Sylvia yet he blames himself for her unhappy marriage. Now though his Sylvia is back on the marriage-mart even if she doesn’t know it yet, could Clayton dare to hope for a lifetime with her?
Watching these two navigate their new found relationship with old feelings flickering to life in the background was both entertaining and hot! They both want each other. Sylvia is no blushing virgin. Clayton is afraid of the future yet wants Sylvia more than his next breath. When they come together the sensual encounters leave the reader breathless for repeats.
Meanwhile, while Clayton and Sylvia are...ahem, figuring things out. 😉 Sylvia’s Mismatch Society is moving along and Ladies everywhere are breaking betrothals, refusing marriage offers, and just plain shaking up polite society.
“Ladies everywhere are refusing to wed. They are breaking their betrothals, turning away suitors, and calling for greater freedoms. All of society is in an uproar over it.”
“ In short, the Marriage Mart was officially closed.” The Wanton’s of Waverton have managed to do something never thought of before, allow women a choice and teach them to think for themselves, it’s a revolution! The Lords of society are at a loss as they put together the pieces -
“They meet weekly and discuss ways in which to make our lives a living hell.” Clayton scoffed. “I’m sure that is not the purpose of their group.” “Have you seen the men around you?” his friend retorted. He glanced around once more. Yes, his friend had a point there. “What, exactly, occurs at these meetings?” “The ladies provide instruction to other women on how to avoid the state of marriage,” Landon said, rolling his snifter between his palms. “They school their members on how to instead push that task off onto brothers, guardians, and fathers, who will then see to the responsibility of raising a family’s wealth and status through marriage.”
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the characters. The premise was intriguing. The passion between the MC was scorching hot! The struggles the MC go through both internal and external were well portrayed and thought out. I have read some other reviews that believe the book was too busy, too many characters, too many subplots; However, I didn’t have trouble following the story at all. So, why did I rate the story 4 stars versus 5 stars? The ending and lack of epilogue.
This is the first book in a series! The male MC was dealing with a huge personal struggle the entire book. The female MC had ex-in-laws who were slightly psychotic. One of Clayton’s best friends is greatly impacted by The Mismatch Society. All of these reasons and more demand an epilogue. Yet we are left with a quick resolution and a hope that book two will answer some questions. Sorry, just not good enough for me.
4 Stars and I am ready for book 2!
Review Copy of Someone Wanton His Way Comes Purchased by reviewer.
This book has one of my favorite things — Good Ol’ UST (Unresolved Sexual Tension)— This author knows how to tease both her readers and her characters in a deliciously wicked way! Loved.Every.Word.
This is my first time reading author Christi Caldwell and I will definitely be back for more! Someone Wanton His Way Comes is book one in her new series The Wantons of Waverton and these stories are set in 1829 London specifically Mayfair. Mayfair during this timeframe was a new district in London that was being flocked to by all the fashionable upper class society. The Ton or le bon ton, which directly translates to "good form" or "etiquette." In this case, "good etiquette" means "good breeding," aka the upper crust of high society has made Mayfair their own by this timeframe. There is nothing this group likes more than the latest gossip, there were even gossip sheets printed daily to help spread the word, and this story gives The Ton plenty of fodder!
So bear with me here as we review a little history. Because society played such an important role in this story it helps to understand that during this timeframe, the end of The Georgian period also known as The Regency Period. During The Regency Period fashion, etiquette, manners, social customs, and many other aspects of social life were all dictated by The Ton. The life of a Ton member was highly structured, social acceptance was crucial, and largely based on birth and family standing, and acceptable social behaviors were different for men and women. A woman could ruin her chances of being accepted during The Season by going against accepted social standards.
Needless to say what our female MC Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton does in this story is simply unheard of and leads to a perfect scandal among society members. What does she do you ask? Well she daringly moved out of her family’s home as a widow and chose to live with two other single women. Then this daring Lady proclaims she is not marrying again which is all together unheard of because every Lady needs a strong man to keep them safe and respectable! I mean how dare she even think this would be accepted!
“Women are expected to be above reproach in every way. Ladies are expected to conduct themselves in a way that is seen as flawless. Having one’s own opinions about life and institutions and politics and . . . and simply living are luxuries we are not permitted.”
Her behavior creates quite the stir and before she knows it other women are coming to her house asking to be a part of the new society she is building. Amazing huh? Be that as it may a society or club is formed, a society of women rebelling against marriage, The Mismatch Society.
The gentleman MC is Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, and he is known amongst society as a respectable, polite, and handsome catch. Yet he has remained unmarried - as the right lady has not been available. You see he has carried a torch for Lady Sylvia for several years. Him and Sylvia became friends long ago; However, Clayton believes himself cursed so he pushed Sylvia towards his friend. Clayton never got over his love of Sylvia yet he blames himself for her unhappy marriage. Now though his Sylvia is back on the marriage-mart even if she doesn’t know it yet, could Clayton dare to hope for a lifetime with her?
Watching these two navigate their new found relationship with old feelings flickering to life in the background was both entertaining and hot! They both want each other. Sylvia is no blushing virgin. Clayton is afraid of the future yet wants Sylvia more than his next breath. When they come together the sensual encounters leave the reader breathless for repeats.
Meanwhile, while Clayton and Sylvia are...ahem, figuring things out. 😉 Sylvia’s Mismatch Society is moving along and Ladies everywhere are breaking betrothals, refusing marriage offers, and just plain shaking up polite society.
“Ladies everywhere are refusing to wed. They are breaking their betrothals, turning away suitors, and calling for greater freedoms. All of society is in an uproar over it.”
“ In short, the Marriage Mart was officially closed.” The Wanton’s of Waverton have managed to do something never thought of before, allow women a choice and teach them to think for themselves, it’s a revolution! The Lords of society are at a loss as they put together the pieces -
“They meet weekly and discuss ways in which to make our lives a living hell.” Clayton scoffed. “I’m sure that is not the purpose of their group.” “Have you seen the men around you?” his friend retorted. He glanced around once more. Yes, his friend had a point there. “What, exactly, occurs at these meetings?” “The ladies provide instruction to other women on how to avoid the state of marriage,” Landon said, rolling his snifter between his palms. “They school their members on how to instead push that task off onto brothers, guardians, and fathers, who will then see to the responsibility of raising a family’s wealth and status through marriage.”
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the characters. The premise was intriguing. The passion between the MC was scorching hot! The struggles the MC go through both internal and external were well portrayed and thought out. I have read some other reviews that believe the book was too busy, too many characters, too many subplots; However, I didn’t have trouble following the story at all. So, why did I rate the story 4 stars versus 5 stars? The ending and lack of epilogue.
This is the first book in a series! The male MC was dealing with a huge personal struggle the entire book. The female MC had ex-in-laws who were slightly psychotic. One of Clayton’s best friends is greatly impacted by The Mismatch Society. All of these reasons and more demand an epilogue. Yet we are left with a quick resolution and a hope that book two will answer some questions. Sorry, just not good enough for me.
4 Stars and I am ready for book 2!
Review Copy of Someone Wanton His Way Comes Purchased by reviewer.
April 28, 2021
Audible Narration was Very Good!! 5 stars for narration!!
The first part of this story was unbelievable for the time period. I t is 1829 an and the widowed Lady Sylvia Elton Dowager Countess of Norfolk has formed the Mismatched Society for Women. The problem I have with this is its 1829 women did not have a choice in getting married or staying single. They had no occupation no way to earn a living and provide for themselves. They must acquire a husband. This Mismatched Society was just to feminist for the era. They would have been shut down
But what I did like was the middle to the end when Sylvia and Clayton Kearsley Viscount St. John friendship advanced into a sensual romance and love story. Clayton was a wonderful hero. Thats saying a lot for me because I usually don't read HR stories unless they are about Dukes, Marquess or Earls. I don't bother with the lower tier of the peerage. But I really like the way Clayton/St.John was written. I love his 4 year old little sister Eris. What a little power house she is. I also, like the interaction between Vallen 3 year old son of Sylvia. His playtime with Eris added to the story. Children always bring and extra element to any storyline.
I also, didn't like that Sylvia was a old spinster. I personally am sick of Spinster storylines. The ending was abrupt. The H/H haven't married yet!!
The first part of this story was unbelievable for the time period. I t is 1829 an and the widowed Lady Sylvia Elton Dowager Countess of Norfolk has formed the Mismatched Society for Women. The problem I have with this is its 1829 women did not have a choice in getting married or staying single. They had no occupation no way to earn a living and provide for themselves. They must acquire a husband. This Mismatched Society was just to feminist for the era. They would have been shut down
But what I did like was the middle to the end when Sylvia and Clayton Kearsley Viscount St. John friendship advanced into a sensual romance and love story. Clayton was a wonderful hero. Thats saying a lot for me because I usually don't read HR stories unless they are about Dukes, Marquess or Earls. I don't bother with the lower tier of the peerage. But I really like the way Clayton/St.John was written. I love his 4 year old little sister Eris. What a little power house she is. I also, like the interaction between Vallen 3 year old son of Sylvia. His playtime with Eris added to the story. Children always bring and extra element to any storyline.
I also, didn't like that Sylvia was a old spinster. I personally am sick of Spinster storylines. The ending was abrupt. The H/H haven't married yet!!
April 11, 2022
4/5 ⭐️
Pretty good book for a historical romance!
Pretty good book for a historical romance!
April 26, 2021
Christi Caldwell has been a favourite of mine for years and I cannot believe I’m rating this a 2, but this book was a miss and was almost a DNF for me.
This is the first book in the new series though some of the characters and subplots were introduced in previous books. While this book is written as a stand-alone, a lot of the plot would be better understood if you have previously read “In the dark with the Duke“.
A few things were going on in the story but essentially, widowed Sylvia Elton starts a “Mismatch Society” intending to change the marriage mart. Her late husband was lying and unfaithful to her throughout her marriage and she found out too late. So she decides that if she can, she will try and help young women and teach them that they deserve better than lying lords and broken hearts.
Clayton Kearsley needs to marry to protect his sisters but the marriage mart is changing and someone has started a club for this. Intending to dismantle the club, he goes to the society only to find out that it's Sylvia who heads it. Clayton and Sylvia were close friends before her marriage to her lying husband who was introduced to her by Clayton himself. But he kept away because of his guilt and the fact that he was secretly in love with her from the start.
The first few chapters were interesting but it started to drag a while later and I couldn’t connect with anyone from this story and most characters were easily forgettable. The plot had a solid foundation to focus on strong interesting characters and relationships, but it turned out to be all a missed opportunity.
While I do understand the direction the “Mismatch Society” was meant to take, it sort of fell flat for me. Instead of her lectures that marriage is a mistake, I would have rather liked to see Sylvia teach how women can live independently. A lot of times, Sylvia seemed immature and stubborn to lead a group of young impressionable women. There were a lot of repeated monologues which made the whole reading experience drag.
While I was disappointed with the first book in the series, I am not writing off this series completely and hope the next book will have her old charm.
This is the first book in the new series though some of the characters and subplots were introduced in previous books. While this book is written as a stand-alone, a lot of the plot would be better understood if you have previously read “In the dark with the Duke“.
A few things were going on in the story but essentially, widowed Sylvia Elton starts a “Mismatch Society” intending to change the marriage mart. Her late husband was lying and unfaithful to her throughout her marriage and she found out too late. So she decides that if she can, she will try and help young women and teach them that they deserve better than lying lords and broken hearts.
Clayton Kearsley needs to marry to protect his sisters but the marriage mart is changing and someone has started a club for this. Intending to dismantle the club, he goes to the society only to find out that it's Sylvia who heads it. Clayton and Sylvia were close friends before her marriage to her lying husband who was introduced to her by Clayton himself. But he kept away because of his guilt and the fact that he was secretly in love with her from the start.
The first few chapters were interesting but it started to drag a while later and I couldn’t connect with anyone from this story and most characters were easily forgettable. The plot had a solid foundation to focus on strong interesting characters and relationships, but it turned out to be all a missed opportunity.
While I do understand the direction the “Mismatch Society” was meant to take, it sort of fell flat for me. Instead of her lectures that marriage is a mistake, I would have rather liked to see Sylvia teach how women can live independently. A lot of times, Sylvia seemed immature and stubborn to lead a group of young impressionable women. There were a lot of repeated monologues which made the whole reading experience drag.
While I was disappointed with the first book in the series, I am not writing off this series completely and hope the next book will have her old charm.
April 19, 2021
Someone Wanton His Way Comes follows Sylvia, a young widow, as she moves in with two female friends and begins to build a life for her and her son. Sylvia becomes the leader of the Mismatch Society, a group of women determined to change societal rules. When she reconnects with Clayton, an old friend and a friend of her deceased husband, old feelings reignite, and the pair must examine their feelings and confront their pasts while also deciding if they have a future.
Sylvia is fascinating. Bold and independent, she refuses to be a victim and instead takes charge of her life. She does not want to be beholden to a man, nor does she want to have to answer to one. She is her own woman, and she won’t accept anything less than equality. Other women look up to her and her feminist ideals, and they all work together to change the rules of their society. I love how these women turn everything upside down!
Many of Clayton’s sisters are part of the Mismatch Society, and they continually manipulate Clayton into bending to their will. Clayton is such a wonderful brother, son, and love interest! He is self-sacrificing and honorable, and his attentiveness and easy comradery with his family is sincere and thoughtful. He is a good man with good intentions and is the perfect match for Sylvia, who he has loved for years. Unfortunately, Clayton fears the family curse so much that he denies himself a happy, wedded future.
The love story is a great friends-to-lovers romance mixed with a bit of unrequited love and angst. Clayton has loved Sylvia for years but never acted on his feelings. Throughout the story, he continues to resist his feelings. Sylvia does as well because of her failed and loveless marriage and her feelings about love. I liked seeing this couple rekindle their friendship and how it grew into something more. Plus, their chemistry is fantastic!! Sylvia often makes the first move with Clayton, which is so fitting with their characters. He is trying to do right by everyone, and she is finally in a place where she feels confident and comfortable acting on her needs and desires.
Something else I liked about both Sylvia and Clayton is how willing they were to listen to opposing ideas and learn and grow from others. Sylvia has very strong and negative feelings toward love and marriage, which isn’t shocking considering the terrible marriage she had. Leading a society of women who support these assertions solidifies her feelings. However, the more time she spends with Clayton, the more she realizes that her ideas are too broad and don’t apply to everyone. I like that Sylvia is willing to see things from other people’s points of view. Clayton does the same when addressing his fears of an early death and his feelings of failing Sylvia. Seeing how they grow and change speaks to their love and respect for each other and those they love.
I love the Kearsley family. Clayton, his sisters, and his mother are a fun, loving, and lively group, and I enjoyed their humorous antics and time spent together. Their conversations and easy way with each other show how much love and respect they have. It also shows how close they are. Clayton’s sisters are hilarious, each unique and memorable in her own way. This strong family unit is one of the highlights of the story.
Though it’s the first in a series, there are many references to people and events from other books, so I assume this is a spin-off series. The author provides ample context to understand what happened before this book, but I wish I had read the other series to better understand different things that happened. I’m also curious to learn more about Sylvia’s two housemates. They had minor roles in this story, but I am hoping that they will be the focus in future books.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Sylvia is fascinating. Bold and independent, she refuses to be a victim and instead takes charge of her life. She does not want to be beholden to a man, nor does she want to have to answer to one. She is her own woman, and she won’t accept anything less than equality. Other women look up to her and her feminist ideals, and they all work together to change the rules of their society. I love how these women turn everything upside down!
Many of Clayton’s sisters are part of the Mismatch Society, and they continually manipulate Clayton into bending to their will. Clayton is such a wonderful brother, son, and love interest! He is self-sacrificing and honorable, and his attentiveness and easy comradery with his family is sincere and thoughtful. He is a good man with good intentions and is the perfect match for Sylvia, who he has loved for years. Unfortunately, Clayton fears the family curse so much that he denies himself a happy, wedded future.
The love story is a great friends-to-lovers romance mixed with a bit of unrequited love and angst. Clayton has loved Sylvia for years but never acted on his feelings. Throughout the story, he continues to resist his feelings. Sylvia does as well because of her failed and loveless marriage and her feelings about love. I liked seeing this couple rekindle their friendship and how it grew into something more. Plus, their chemistry is fantastic!! Sylvia often makes the first move with Clayton, which is so fitting with their characters. He is trying to do right by everyone, and she is finally in a place where she feels confident and comfortable acting on her needs and desires.
Something else I liked about both Sylvia and Clayton is how willing they were to listen to opposing ideas and learn and grow from others. Sylvia has very strong and negative feelings toward love and marriage, which isn’t shocking considering the terrible marriage she had. Leading a society of women who support these assertions solidifies her feelings. However, the more time she spends with Clayton, the more she realizes that her ideas are too broad and don’t apply to everyone. I like that Sylvia is willing to see things from other people’s points of view. Clayton does the same when addressing his fears of an early death and his feelings of failing Sylvia. Seeing how they grow and change speaks to their love and respect for each other and those they love.
I love the Kearsley family. Clayton, his sisters, and his mother are a fun, loving, and lively group, and I enjoyed their humorous antics and time spent together. Their conversations and easy way with each other show how much love and respect they have. It also shows how close they are. Clayton’s sisters are hilarious, each unique and memorable in her own way. This strong family unit is one of the highlights of the story.
Though it’s the first in a series, there are many references to people and events from other books, so I assume this is a spin-off series. The author provides ample context to understand what happened before this book, but I wish I had read the other series to better understand different things that happened. I’m also curious to learn more about Sylvia’s two housemates. They had minor roles in this story, but I am hoping that they will be the focus in future books.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
March 11, 2021
2.5 magical little stars
Christ Caldwell is one of my most read historical romance authors because her books are fast and addictive reads. I really enjoyed the last 30% of this book because it was exactly those things, but I really struggled with the beginning.
Clayton our hero believes he is cursed to die young. Despite falling in love with Sylvia he tries to save her from the heartbreak of his death by instead introducing her to his best friend who he believes can give her the love and marriage she deserves. Sadly things don't turn out that way and Sylvia is left a widowed mother, with a lot of resentment towards men. Clayton carries a lot of hurt and guilt from this too but he was such a sweetheart and I adored his interactions with his family - I really hope we get his sisters stories!
One of my favourite things about Christi Caldwell is the little connections between her different books and series. There's nothing better than bumping into characters you love and getting glimpses of their life post-HEA. Unfortunately in this case I'm not up to date with all of Christi's latest releases and I really think that impacted my enjoyment of this book. The Lost Lords of London series covers Lila's story (Sylvia's sister) and Sylvia's husband and his family are heavily connected to that plot. Having that knowledge before this would really help with understanding what Sylvia has been through and why she is now so hardened against men.
Alongside the continuation of this drama, Sylvia has inadvertently created the 'Mismatch Society' in which she and a group of ladies meet to have discussions about women's place in society - a big part of which is pushing against marriage. I hate to say it because I love this concept but I think this was my least favourite aspect of this book. I just didn't understand the drama that surrounded their society and it felt like most the book was set during their meetings, which weren't terribly exciting to read about.
To be completely honest I'm not quite sure what the plot of the book was. We have this drama with her husbands family, the Mismatch Society, Clayton's interactions with his family, and passionate encounters (which felt very thrown in most of the time, as though just to tick that box, and were moved on from like nothing had happened) which made the book very convoluted and confusing. It just didn't flow well. I normally read Christi's books in one sitting, this one took me 5 days because I just didn't want to pick it up.
I'm really sad this book didn't work for me but I would totally recommend reading Christi Caldwell's books. Scandalous Seasons and Sinful Brides are probably my favourite series of hers.
*I recieved and ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Christ Caldwell is one of my most read historical romance authors because her books are fast and addictive reads. I really enjoyed the last 30% of this book because it was exactly those things, but I really struggled with the beginning.
Clayton our hero believes he is cursed to die young. Despite falling in love with Sylvia he tries to save her from the heartbreak of his death by instead introducing her to his best friend who he believes can give her the love and marriage she deserves. Sadly things don't turn out that way and Sylvia is left a widowed mother, with a lot of resentment towards men. Clayton carries a lot of hurt and guilt from this too but he was such a sweetheart and I adored his interactions with his family - I really hope we get his sisters stories!
One of my favourite things about Christi Caldwell is the little connections between her different books and series. There's nothing better than bumping into characters you love and getting glimpses of their life post-HEA. Unfortunately in this case I'm not up to date with all of Christi's latest releases and I really think that impacted my enjoyment of this book. The Lost Lords of London series covers Lila's story (Sylvia's sister) and Sylvia's husband and his family are heavily connected to that plot. Having that knowledge before this would really help with understanding what Sylvia has been through and why she is now so hardened against men.
Alongside the continuation of this drama, Sylvia has inadvertently created the 'Mismatch Society' in which she and a group of ladies meet to have discussions about women's place in society - a big part of which is pushing against marriage. I hate to say it because I love this concept but I think this was my least favourite aspect of this book. I just didn't understand the drama that surrounded their society and it felt like most the book was set during their meetings, which weren't terribly exciting to read about.
To be completely honest I'm not quite sure what the plot of the book was. We have this drama with her husbands family, the Mismatch Society, Clayton's interactions with his family, and passionate encounters (which felt very thrown in most of the time, as though just to tick that box, and were moved on from like nothing had happened) which made the book very convoluted and confusing. It just didn't flow well. I normally read Christi's books in one sitting, this one took me 5 days because I just didn't want to pick it up.
I'm really sad this book didn't work for me but I would totally recommend reading Christi Caldwell's books. Scandalous Seasons and Sinful Brides are probably my favourite series of hers.
*I recieved and ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 19, 2021
I really loved this but not because of the two main characters. Sylvia was ok but not a stand out as a heroine. She’s widowed and has no plans to marry again. Then there is Clayton…….who is just a cinnamon roll hero. He was Sylvia’s husbands best friend but he’s not a rogue or a scoundrel. He’s just a good guy who absolutely adores his family. His family, I also adored. I could have just read about Clayton and his sisters. Sylvia and Clayton together was just kinda meh but because of her. I just didn’t warm up to her but thought he was adorable. That’s why this didn’t quite make it to five stars because of Sylvia. Otherwise, I enjoyed this very much.
August 12, 2023
Rating: 3.5 stars
I definitely feel like this book took a little bit to get into, but it was enjoyable. My main issue was the audiobook. I really loved the female narrator; however, the male narrator was awful. I remember another book by this author that I listened to and I hated the male narrator as well in that one. So just a heads-up that this author might always have awful male narrators, but I'm not sure.
I liked the plot of this one. It was super interesting how these women pretty much banned together to boycott getting married. For this time-period, it was very scandalous. However, it just showed how strong these female characters were. I'd be interested in continuing this series to see how the other females in the friend group end up with their love interests.
Overall, I think I recommend this one, just not the audiobook.
I definitely feel like this book took a little bit to get into, but it was enjoyable. My main issue was the audiobook. I really loved the female narrator; however, the male narrator was awful. I remember another book by this author that I listened to and I hated the male narrator as well in that one. So just a heads-up that this author might always have awful male narrators, but I'm not sure.
I liked the plot of this one. It was super interesting how these women pretty much banned together to boycott getting married. For this time-period, it was very scandalous. However, it just showed how strong these female characters were. I'd be interested in continuing this series to see how the other females in the friend group end up with their love interests.
Overall, I think I recommend this one, just not the audiobook.
May 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. Sylvia was a great female lead - independent, smart & opinionated (especially for this time period). Clayton has loved her from afar and I enjoyed watching their relationship shift from friendship to more. Their chemistry definitely deserves a mention! Round out the story with his crazy family and I loved it. Definitely recommend.
I received an arc of this book.
I received an arc of this book.
April 18, 2021
This is the first in a new series, though it seems to be a spinoff of another series, as it references earlier events I had no knowledge of.
Lady Sylvia, the Countess of Norfolk, is a widow, and mother of a young son. Her husband was a lying, unfaithful, rake, and she didn't find out until it was too late, and she was already married to him. Then, he died unexpectedly, leaving her to pick up the pieces. She has no interest, however, in moving back in with her family, as most widows do. Instead, she and 2 other friends (one of whom was her husband's mistress, though she had no idea he was married) decide to move in together. The ton is abuzz with the "scandal" of it all, and it gets even worse when they form the Mismatch Society (don't call them a CLUB!), with many other ladies who seek them out. Most of them have ZERO interest in getting married, especially not to men they can't trust, and that will give them no freedoms.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John is in a bind. He has a widowed mother and 6 sisters that he's responsible for. Since none of them can inherit, and he doesn't want them to have to depend on the kindness of a distant relative, he knows he needs to marry and produce his own heir. And he needs to do it soon, because he knows his time is short. His family is cursed to die young, and knowing that, he's never wanted to fall in love. He hopes to find a companion, who will be his friend, care for his family, and not mourn him too much when he's gone. They only problem is Sylvia. He's loved her since the first time he saw her, but knowing that his future was short, and wanting happiness for her, he introduced her to to his best friend, and they later married. But, Clayton had no idea that all Norfolk would give Sylvia was heartbreak. Clayton has avoided her the last 3 years since Norfolk's death, but comes face-to-face with her again when he goes to confront the head of the Mismatch Society.
Clayton and Sylvia were always drawn to each other. They were friends from their first meeting, and she always hoped more would happen, but then he introduced her to Norfolk, and then that was that. She never had any idea how he felt about her. I really enjoyed their connection, and how much they cared for each other. I just hated how much time was wasted, and all the heartbreak that happened for each of them during that time.
Also, I picked this up because it was the first in a series, but there was QUITE A BIT of backstory that I felt I was lacking, about Norfolk's death, his hideous family, the coverup, and Sylvia's sister Lila's relationship and marriage. Best I can tell, this must link back to book 2 in the Lost Lords of London series, which is Lila's book? But I haven't read that, and I think a lot of this would've fallen into place a lot better if I had. For anyone who is familiar with these characters, I'm sure they had fun revisiting this storyline.
Clayton's sisters and mother were a total delight, and the highlight of the story for me. I loved how they ribbed him, manipulated him, cajoled him, and cared for him, as sisters are wont to do. I enjoyed the sister relationship between Sylvia and Lila as well, in addition to the sisterhood of Sylvia with Valerie and Annalee, and the rest of the Society. I found Clayton's relationships with Landon and Scarsdale interesting. They'd been friends since they were kids at school, though the two of them, along with Norfolk, were your typical rakish aristocrats, where Clayton was so much more circumspect, and kinder, and more of a true gentleman. But, he obviously cared for them, though they had so little in common.
Overall this story moved a bit too slowly for my taste. I was interested in Sylvia and Clayton, and their connection, but the pace of the story just wasn't my jam. That, in addition to the backstory that I felt I was lacking, it made this only a 3 star read for me. But I enjoyed the Society, and I may continue with book 2, which will be about Scarsdale and his former betrothed, Emma Gately, a founding member of the Society.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
Lady Sylvia, the Countess of Norfolk, is a widow, and mother of a young son. Her husband was a lying, unfaithful, rake, and she didn't find out until it was too late, and she was already married to him. Then, he died unexpectedly, leaving her to pick up the pieces. She has no interest, however, in moving back in with her family, as most widows do. Instead, she and 2 other friends (one of whom was her husband's mistress, though she had no idea he was married) decide to move in together. The ton is abuzz with the "scandal" of it all, and it gets even worse when they form the Mismatch Society (don't call them a CLUB!), with many other ladies who seek them out. Most of them have ZERO interest in getting married, especially not to men they can't trust, and that will give them no freedoms.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John is in a bind. He has a widowed mother and 6 sisters that he's responsible for. Since none of them can inherit, and he doesn't want them to have to depend on the kindness of a distant relative, he knows he needs to marry and produce his own heir. And he needs to do it soon, because he knows his time is short. His family is cursed to die young, and knowing that, he's never wanted to fall in love. He hopes to find a companion, who will be his friend, care for his family, and not mourn him too much when he's gone. They only problem is Sylvia. He's loved her since the first time he saw her, but knowing that his future was short, and wanting happiness for her, he introduced her to to his best friend, and they later married. But, Clayton had no idea that all Norfolk would give Sylvia was heartbreak. Clayton has avoided her the last 3 years since Norfolk's death, but comes face-to-face with her again when he goes to confront the head of the Mismatch Society.
Clayton and Sylvia were always drawn to each other. They were friends from their first meeting, and she always hoped more would happen, but then he introduced her to Norfolk, and then that was that. She never had any idea how he felt about her. I really enjoyed their connection, and how much they cared for each other. I just hated how much time was wasted, and all the heartbreak that happened for each of them during that time.
Also, I picked this up because it was the first in a series, but there was QUITE A BIT of backstory that I felt I was lacking, about Norfolk's death, his hideous family, the coverup, and Sylvia's sister Lila's relationship and marriage. Best I can tell, this must link back to book 2 in the Lost Lords of London series, which is Lila's book? But I haven't read that, and I think a lot of this would've fallen into place a lot better if I had. For anyone who is familiar with these characters, I'm sure they had fun revisiting this storyline.
Clayton's sisters and mother were a total delight, and the highlight of the story for me. I loved how they ribbed him, manipulated him, cajoled him, and cared for him, as sisters are wont to do. I enjoyed the sister relationship between Sylvia and Lila as well, in addition to the sisterhood of Sylvia with Valerie and Annalee, and the rest of the Society. I found Clayton's relationships with Landon and Scarsdale interesting. They'd been friends since they were kids at school, though the two of them, along with Norfolk, were your typical rakish aristocrats, where Clayton was so much more circumspect, and kinder, and more of a true gentleman. But, he obviously cared for them, though they had so little in common.
Overall this story moved a bit too slowly for my taste. I was interested in Sylvia and Clayton, and their connection, but the pace of the story just wasn't my jam. That, in addition to the backstory that I felt I was lacking, it made this only a 3 star read for me. But I enjoyed the Society, and I may continue with book 2, which will be about Scarsdale and his former betrothed, Emma Gately, a founding member of the Society.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
March 22, 2021
Someone Wanton His Way Comes is the first book in Christi Caldwell's new series, Wantons of Waverton.
Second chance romance. Friends to lovers.
Sylvia is a young widow and mother who is now independent, untrusting of men, and is the head of a group of women who has come to call themselves the Mismatch Society (it's not a Club!). These are women from all walks of life who meet to discuss women's place in society. They don't actually "do" anything, but they talk a lot.
Clayton is a cinnamon bun hero. He believes he's cursed to die young like the other men in his family. He doesn't want to marry for love because he doesn't want to leave a grieving widow. He fell in love with Sylvia when they first met years before, but because Clayton felt he was doomed, he pushed Sylvia towards his best friend. Sylvia and the friend married, but it was never a love match, for which Clayton has a lot of guilt.
This book started strong. I loved the opening "flashback" scene with Clayton and his friend. It was really heartbreaking and sets up Clayton's good guy character. I liked the relationships between Clayton and his sisters, especially 4 year old Eris. There were a lot of older sisters, and honestly, they all started to blend together.
I was really interested in Sylvia's relationships with Valerie (her dead husband's mistress and love of his life) and her other roommate. But the book never really expanded on those stories, which I'm hoping means that they will star in their own books.
This book dragged a bit. It was best when light hearted and fun (great scene with the children). The internal monologues were very repetitive at times. The chemistry between Clayton and Sylvia was just ok. As I said before, I really liked their scenes with other characters, but together they were a bit tepid.
This book is hugely connected to the Lost Lords of London series, specifically In the Dark With the Duke. That book is Sylvia's sister Lila and Hugh's story. I happened to have read that book, so much of what was briefly told in Someone Wanton His Way Comes made sense. But honestly, the villain of Someone Wanton was a major force in In the Dark With the Duke. Someone Wanton should have been a continuation of that series. By not reading In the Dark With the Duke, I don't think the reader gets a sense of just how heinous the villains are in Someone Wanton His Way Comes, and I don't think there's a sense of just how much danger Sylvia may be in.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
Second chance romance. Friends to lovers.
Sylvia is a young widow and mother who is now independent, untrusting of men, and is the head of a group of women who has come to call themselves the Mismatch Society (it's not a Club!). These are women from all walks of life who meet to discuss women's place in society. They don't actually "do" anything, but they talk a lot.
Clayton is a cinnamon bun hero. He believes he's cursed to die young like the other men in his family. He doesn't want to marry for love because he doesn't want to leave a grieving widow. He fell in love with Sylvia when they first met years before, but because Clayton felt he was doomed, he pushed Sylvia towards his best friend. Sylvia and the friend married, but it was never a love match, for which Clayton has a lot of guilt.
This book started strong. I loved the opening "flashback" scene with Clayton and his friend. It was really heartbreaking and sets up Clayton's good guy character. I liked the relationships between Clayton and his sisters, especially 4 year old Eris. There were a lot of older sisters, and honestly, they all started to blend together.
I was really interested in Sylvia's relationships with Valerie (her dead husband's mistress and love of his life) and her other roommate. But the book never really expanded on those stories, which I'm hoping means that they will star in their own books.
This book dragged a bit. It was best when light hearted and fun (great scene with the children). The internal monologues were very repetitive at times. The chemistry between Clayton and Sylvia was just ok. As I said before, I really liked their scenes with other characters, but together they were a bit tepid.
This book is hugely connected to the Lost Lords of London series, specifically In the Dark With the Duke. That book is Sylvia's sister Lila and Hugh's story. I happened to have read that book, so much of what was briefly told in Someone Wanton His Way Comes made sense. But honestly, the villain of Someone Wanton was a major force in In the Dark With the Duke. Someone Wanton should have been a continuation of that series. By not reading In the Dark With the Duke, I don't think the reader gets a sense of just how heinous the villains are in Someone Wanton His Way Comes, and I don't think there's a sense of just how much danger Sylvia may be in.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
March 28, 2021
Someone Wanton His Way Comes (Wantons of Waverton) by Christi Caldwell
Rating: 3-stars
Summary:
Clayton loves Sylvia, has always loved Sylvia, but alas he is cursed to die an early death and cannot bear the thought of leaving her as a young widow. His solution? Introduce her to one of his friends, Norton, a rake through and through, only to have Norton inform him he is going to leave Sylvia (even though he knows she is pregnant with his heir) for another woman and end up being murdered by his mother’s order the very same day. This leaves Sylvia a young widow all the same, but Clayton stays away because he feels guilty for having introduced Sylvia to Norton and refuses to fulfill Norton’s request to look after her after he is gone.
So, Sylvia has Vallen, her son, and decides to heck with everyone else, ton included, she is going to move into her own home with two scandalous friends and live life on her terms. One friend is her deceased husband’s lover (awkward) and the other is a woman who uses drink to deal with the tragedy she experienced at Peterloo. They unintentionally start the Mismatch Society, which effectively focuses on how women are always screwed by the rules of Society and Marriage, and how to best demolish these institutions. Long story short, Sylvia needs Clayton to give some credibility to the organization as she begins to take heat from Society for her scandalous “club”.
Thoughts:
I liked our hero and heroine, especially Clayton. He is loveably not perfect, nor a rake, yet he has bedroom skills. He is rather upstanding, really. He loves his family fiercely and does not apologize for it. Sylvia is so deadest against marriage and yet we know she is going to end up with Clayton, so it felt a little over the top until suddenly, she wants to marry him to save her reputation but also because she loves him (meh). It is at this point of the story where I was disappointed. There is significant build up to this point and from here to the end of the book it seems rushed. I felt there was extra pages devoted to things early on that were not as important as seeing the resolution at the end. I mean you have a sinister ex mother and father-in-law who need to be punished for horrible crimes and the wrap up is a paragraph or two (say what?!). Also, Clayton is shot, and Sylvia is there and magically knowing everything he wanted to tell her and it’s all okay, practically no conversation needed. I wish 20-30% of the first two thirds of the book was pulled and the page space was devoted to the ending. I think I would have found it to be much more satisfying.
Overall, this is an interesting read and it was an enjoyable book, but the warp speed end of the book bothered me as I wanted to know more about how they worked things out, what happened to the evil in laws, and ahem, what about an epilogue (FYI – I LOVE epilogues and was disappointed there was not on in this book; I enjoy seeing another peek into our characters’ lives for another 5-10 pages to know a little bit more about their happily ever after). I have read many of Ms. Caldwell’s books and am part of her Facebook group, so I know she is a great author and will chalk this one up to just not being my flavor.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 3-stars
Summary:
Clayton loves Sylvia, has always loved Sylvia, but alas he is cursed to die an early death and cannot bear the thought of leaving her as a young widow. His solution? Introduce her to one of his friends, Norton, a rake through and through, only to have Norton inform him he is going to leave Sylvia (even though he knows she is pregnant with his heir) for another woman and end up being murdered by his mother’s order the very same day. This leaves Sylvia a young widow all the same, but Clayton stays away because he feels guilty for having introduced Sylvia to Norton and refuses to fulfill Norton’s request to look after her after he is gone.
So, Sylvia has Vallen, her son, and decides to heck with everyone else, ton included, she is going to move into her own home with two scandalous friends and live life on her terms. One friend is her deceased husband’s lover (awkward) and the other is a woman who uses drink to deal with the tragedy she experienced at Peterloo. They unintentionally start the Mismatch Society, which effectively focuses on how women are always screwed by the rules of Society and Marriage, and how to best demolish these institutions. Long story short, Sylvia needs Clayton to give some credibility to the organization as she begins to take heat from Society for her scandalous “club”.
Thoughts:
I liked our hero and heroine, especially Clayton. He is loveably not perfect, nor a rake, yet he has bedroom skills. He is rather upstanding, really. He loves his family fiercely and does not apologize for it. Sylvia is so deadest against marriage and yet we know she is going to end up with Clayton, so it felt a little over the top until suddenly, she wants to marry him to save her reputation but also because she loves him (meh). It is at this point of the story where I was disappointed. There is significant build up to this point and from here to the end of the book it seems rushed. I felt there was extra pages devoted to things early on that were not as important as seeing the resolution at the end. I mean you have a sinister ex mother and father-in-law who need to be punished for horrible crimes and the wrap up is a paragraph or two (say what?!). Also, Clayton is shot, and Sylvia is there and magically knowing everything he wanted to tell her and it’s all okay, practically no conversation needed. I wish 20-30% of the first two thirds of the book was pulled and the page space was devoted to the ending. I think I would have found it to be much more satisfying.
Overall, this is an interesting read and it was an enjoyable book, but the warp speed end of the book bothered me as I wanted to know more about how they worked things out, what happened to the evil in laws, and ahem, what about an epilogue (FYI – I LOVE epilogues and was disappointed there was not on in this book; I enjoy seeing another peek into our characters’ lives for another 5-10 pages to know a little bit more about their happily ever after). I have read many of Ms. Caldwell’s books and am part of her Facebook group, so I know she is a great author and will chalk this one up to just not being my flavor.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 26, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
After finding herself widowed while heavily pregnant, Lady Sylvia Elton has had to come with becoming a new mother while grieving, understanding the truth about her marriage, and uncovering an illegal underground boxing ring, run by her in laws, which resulted in her husbands death. While having all of this on her cards, she also has to be above reproach, lest her son is taken from her, but she's had enough of being a perfect lady, and along with two other scandalous woman - one of whom had been her late husband's mistress - and inadvertently starts a society of women who are against marriage, and the stiff rules society places upon them. Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, has always been in love with Sylvia, since he met her after her Come Out. Because of a family curse that says the men die young, he has never wanted his wife to suffer, so pushed Sylvia towards his friend, Norfolk, which led to her awful marriage. Feeling guilty, he never visited her after Norfolk's death, but when his sisters all proclaim they won't marry, because of the their society, he finds himself forcing his way in. To say he's shocked to discover that Sylvia is the de facto leader of the society, would be an understatement, but he's pleased for a reason to be close to her again. Both have never gotten over their feelings for the other, and it seems that they now might not be able to - or even want to - ignore the attraction any more.
This is somewhat of a sequel to another of Christi's books, In the Dark with the Duke, following Lila's older sister, Sylvia, and it touches on the topic of the Prendergast family, and the boxing ring. If you haven't already read that one, I highly recommend it, because it helps to understand some of the nuances between Sylvia's relationships with her in-laws, and her mother. Sylvia was never a diamond of the first water, rather a bit of a wallflower during her first season, but she became fast friends with Clayton when they met at a ball, and the friendship between them was once filled with care and admiration, and also love. Both clearly loved each other, and even thought that perhaps it would lead to marriage, but Clay got spooked, and ended up pushing Sylvia into Norfolk's arms, which set off a whole sequence of events that leads up to today. Now happy in her widowhood, even content living with her husband's mistress, and over the pain and hurt she felt at his betrayals, she wants to renew her friendship with Clay, but is also worried about the consequences. Clay never got over his love for Sylvia, and was punishing himself by staying away, especially after Norfolk told him on the day of his death that he was planning on abandoning her and their unborn child. If not for the society, and his sister's involvement, Clay probably would still be hiding away, but now that he's back with her, he doesn't want to leave. There is so much chemistry, and such a back story between the couple, that each of their moments was lovely, and full of joy and humour too. The conclusion blew me away, and I really hope we see more from the couple in book two!
After finding herself widowed while heavily pregnant, Lady Sylvia Elton has had to come with becoming a new mother while grieving, understanding the truth about her marriage, and uncovering an illegal underground boxing ring, run by her in laws, which resulted in her husbands death. While having all of this on her cards, she also has to be above reproach, lest her son is taken from her, but she's had enough of being a perfect lady, and along with two other scandalous woman - one of whom had been her late husband's mistress - and inadvertently starts a society of women who are against marriage, and the stiff rules society places upon them. Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, has always been in love with Sylvia, since he met her after her Come Out. Because of a family curse that says the men die young, he has never wanted his wife to suffer, so pushed Sylvia towards his friend, Norfolk, which led to her awful marriage. Feeling guilty, he never visited her after Norfolk's death, but when his sisters all proclaim they won't marry, because of the their society, he finds himself forcing his way in. To say he's shocked to discover that Sylvia is the de facto leader of the society, would be an understatement, but he's pleased for a reason to be close to her again. Both have never gotten over their feelings for the other, and it seems that they now might not be able to - or even want to - ignore the attraction any more.
This is somewhat of a sequel to another of Christi's books, In the Dark with the Duke, following Lila's older sister, Sylvia, and it touches on the topic of the Prendergast family, and the boxing ring. If you haven't already read that one, I highly recommend it, because it helps to understand some of the nuances between Sylvia's relationships with her in-laws, and her mother. Sylvia was never a diamond of the first water, rather a bit of a wallflower during her first season, but she became fast friends with Clayton when they met at a ball, and the friendship between them was once filled with care and admiration, and also love. Both clearly loved each other, and even thought that perhaps it would lead to marriage, but Clay got spooked, and ended up pushing Sylvia into Norfolk's arms, which set off a whole sequence of events that leads up to today. Now happy in her widowhood, even content living with her husband's mistress, and over the pain and hurt she felt at his betrayals, she wants to renew her friendship with Clay, but is also worried about the consequences. Clay never got over his love for Sylvia, and was punishing himself by staying away, especially after Norfolk told him on the day of his death that he was planning on abandoning her and their unborn child. If not for the society, and his sister's involvement, Clay probably would still be hiding away, but now that he's back with her, he doesn't want to leave. There is so much chemistry, and such a back story between the couple, that each of their moments was lovely, and full of joy and humour too. The conclusion blew me away, and I really hope we see more from the couple in book two!
June 16, 2021
At the time of writing this review, I'm only 50% through the book. However, I doubt my opinion of it will improve much, if at all. I find the premise to be completely out of context for the time period. It seems more fitting for current times than for the 1820s it was written to have occurred. I have read many historical romance novels with strong, independent female leads. Who go against convention and have their own thoughts. The heroine in this novel is not like that. She reads very bitter and vindictive. She was wronged by her cheating husband and the society that allows it, so she wants to impart that same harm on the men. Both the primary and secondary female characters are overbearing and outrageous. The society claims to not be completely against marriage, yet everything they have said and done so far proves other wise. They encourage members to break off betrothals. They scoff and are hostile to any members who try to argue that not every marriage is bad and not all men are the same.
The worst of it for me is the way Clayton, the hero of the story, is treated by his own family members. He hasn't given any sort of indication that he has tried to control and rule their lives. In fact, he has given the exact opposite approach. He knows his sisters have their own thoughts and interests, and that some do not wish to marry. And yet all six of them, his mother as well, bully him and trick him. They accuse him of not knowing what they think and want. Claim that he will eventually force them to marry against their wishes. But it's really they who do not know him. From the moment they joined the Mismatch Society they have viewed him as an enemy when nothing in their history appears to support that.
Then, when the society reluctantly agree that they need a male member so Polite Society will view the Mismatch Society more favorably, they are outraged Clayton didn't immediately agree. What reason had they ever given him to agree? As I said above, his sisters and mothers have bullied him and manipulated him because of their society membership. When he arrived to speak with the leader, they all swarmed him and verbally attacked him. Every experience he has had with the society has been hostile. And they expected him to just agree and go along because it was their wishes. The women were behaving no better than the men they claimed were all bad and terrible.
I will try to finish the story, mainly because I do not like leaving books unread. But I highly doubt my opinion will change much.
The worst of it for me is the way Clayton, the hero of the story, is treated by his own family members. He hasn't given any sort of indication that he has tried to control and rule their lives. In fact, he has given the exact opposite approach. He knows his sisters have their own thoughts and interests, and that some do not wish to marry. And yet all six of them, his mother as well, bully him and trick him. They accuse him of not knowing what they think and want. Claim that he will eventually force them to marry against their wishes. But it's really they who do not know him. From the moment they joined the Mismatch Society they have viewed him as an enemy when nothing in their history appears to support that.
Then, when the society reluctantly agree that they need a male member so Polite Society will view the Mismatch Society more favorably, they are outraged Clayton didn't immediately agree. What reason had they ever given him to agree? As I said above, his sisters and mothers have bullied him and manipulated him because of their society membership. When he arrived to speak with the leader, they all swarmed him and verbally attacked him. Every experience he has had with the society has been hostile. And they expected him to just agree and go along because it was their wishes. The women were behaving no better than the men they claimed were all bad and terrible.
I will try to finish the story, mainly because I do not like leaving books unread. But I highly doubt my opinion will change much.
January 13, 2022
somehow or another, lady sylvia became the head of a society of women who didn't want to be married. word of this spread quickly within the polite society and everyone's scandalised by the audacity of these women who wants a future that involved their own freedom to choose and not just bonded to a man in a loveless marriage. before her husband died, sylvia found out about his infidelity, not that he was really hiding it from her.
clayton didn't think much of the society until the moment it threatened his ability to marry. with so many eligible ladies joining the Mismatch Society and refusing to conform, clayton marched up to the house to talk to the lady-in-charge. little did he expected that his best friend's widowed wife is the one.
soon readers find out about the history between clayton and sylvia. even though clayton had liked sylvia when they first met, the curse that plagued his family stopped him from pursuing her. clayton would never subject sylvia to pain and suffering knowing that he would die young. i enjoyed their second-chance romance. the couple clearly had chemistry and just needed to communicate a lot of things. the gap between them widened because of the presence of sylvia's former husband who is also clayton's friend and because of clayton's fear.
overall, it was enjoyable. i loved how the ladies supported and listened to one another during their meetings even when there are differing ideas and opinions. that includes clayton who became a temporary member of the society. sylvia's an independent woman who knew what she wanted while clayton's a gentleman.
books in the series:
1. someone wanton his way comes: ✰✰✰✰
2. the importance of being wanton: ✰✰✰✰
3. a wanton for all seasons: ✰✰✰✰
clayton didn't think much of the society until the moment it threatened his ability to marry. with so many eligible ladies joining the Mismatch Society and refusing to conform, clayton marched up to the house to talk to the lady-in-charge. little did he expected that his best friend's widowed wife is the one.
soon readers find out about the history between clayton and sylvia. even though clayton had liked sylvia when they first met, the curse that plagued his family stopped him from pursuing her. clayton would never subject sylvia to pain and suffering knowing that he would die young. i enjoyed their second-chance romance. the couple clearly had chemistry and just needed to communicate a lot of things. the gap between them widened because of the presence of sylvia's former husband who is also clayton's friend and because of clayton's fear.
overall, it was enjoyable. i loved how the ladies supported and listened to one another during their meetings even when there are differing ideas and opinions. that includes clayton who became a temporary member of the society. sylvia's an independent woman who knew what she wanted while clayton's a gentleman.
books in the series:
1. someone wanton his way comes: ✰✰✰✰
2. the importance of being wanton: ✰✰✰✰
3. a wanton for all seasons: ✰✰✰✰
May 11, 2021
This was a disappointment. It had a great premise with the introduction of the Mismatch Society. It had a wonderful cast of colorful characters. Unfortunately it was overly redundant. There wasn't one chapter in which either Sylvia or Clayton didn't lament why they couldn't or wouldn't fall in love and/or get married to one another. WE GET IT! And it drives me bonkers when an author feels the need to explain a joke or a thought that we the reader are already privy to, and even worse is when paragraphs are repeated verbatim throughout the novel as the character reflects on what has been said. It's lazy writing and we're capable of remembering what was said two paragraphs ago.
In contrast, she drops weird little hints and bits of information about something that is actually interesting, like an underground child fighting ring, in which more than a few minor characters are involved. Let's back up. Explain yourself, please, preferably in some coherent fashion, and then continue with how this better fits into the story.
In contrast, she drops weird little hints and bits of information about something that is actually interesting, like an underground child fighting ring, in which more than a few minor characters are involved. Let's back up. Explain yourself, please, preferably in some coherent fashion, and then continue with how this better fits into the story.
February 10, 2021
Not my favorite from this author. I love her writing style and the fun, wit, and romance she brings to the page. I just did not care at all about the Society that formed so much of the book. TO me, the heroines Mismatch Society Club overshadowed everything else. I couldn't get into it. Will definitely read more from this author in the future.
February 10, 2021
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately this historical romance novel by this popular author fell flat for me. Uninteresting characters despite the scandals. Just not what I was expecting.
Unfortunately this historical romance novel by this popular author fell flat for me. Uninteresting characters despite the scandals. Just not what I was expecting.
May 4, 2022
Add this to the list of contemporary plots and characters in a historical setting. Nothing about this was truly historical and the characters, main and secondary, were silly and annoying.
April 18, 2021
THAT COVER IS EVERYTHING. I love it and the name!!! Sooo good.
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton decided that she wanted to have her own place along with two equally scorned and cast-off friends. But after discovering they inadvertently inspired young ladies, decided to establishes the Mismatch Society, in order to save them from the terrible fate of marriage.
With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
Clayton is absolutely perfect. Sweet and passionate, he is every girl’s dream. So proper and considerate.
Sylvia is a great mum and a smart, generous, and brave woman. The Mismatch Society’s meetings are really funny. Together, Clayton and Sylvia are amazing. There are great sexy times and romantic ones.
I loved the side characters and I´ll be waiting for their stories!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Widowed Lady Sylvia Elton decided that she wanted to have her own place along with two equally scorned and cast-off friends. But after discovering they inadvertently inspired young ladies, decided to establishes the Mismatch Society, in order to save them from the terrible fate of marriage.
With each new liberated member, the scandalous circle wreaks havoc on the romantic prospects of London’s frustrated male peerage. But nothing prepares Sylvia for the Viscount St. John, a familiar face and her most formidable challenger.
Clayton Kearsley, the Viscount St. John, can’t allow these wantons to dismantle the Marriage Mart. Until he discovers the ringleader is his old friend’s widow, a fine woman for whom he’s carried a torch since the day they met. Thinking himself undeserving of a diamond like her, he introduced her to his best friend—a decision he now regrets deeply, knowing of the hurt she carries in secret.
Now he is positioned to match wits with this woman, who is determined to save young ladies from future heartbreak. And despite his misgivings, Clayton is entertaining fantasies that he could end their battle with a kiss. If only he had the courage to tell her how he feels—or the hope that she’d ever again let down her guard.
Clayton is absolutely perfect. Sweet and passionate, he is every girl’s dream. So proper and considerate.
Sylvia is a great mum and a smart, generous, and brave woman. The Mismatch Society’s meetings are really funny. Together, Clayton and Sylvia are amazing. There are great sexy times and romantic ones.
I loved the side characters and I´ll be waiting for their stories!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 25, 2021
England 1826
Step in the Mismatch Society! Seriously, what is it? Sylvia, now widowed, decided she was going to move out on her own and live independently. Well, she did have two roommates, both who would certainly cause scandal but she didn't care. Surprisingly when other ladies heard, they wanted to be part of that independence! Not be forced to wed or be "mismatched" and thus it began!
Clayton Kearsley, Lord St John, was responsible for his mother and six sisters. Yes, six! His father had passed away young, as was the curse for the Kearsley men. It seemed now, before his demise, he would need to marry and produce a heir so as not to leave them all without a home. But as he went to his club, he found his friends were upset over a new society that was encouraging women not to marry! He was determined to get to the bottom of it and went to confront them.
What he didn't expect was to find Sylvia in charge. Sylvia who had been married to his best friend. Sylvia, who he had cared about before his friend had married her. The friend who had left her for his mistress who he loved....
I just wanted to set up the series and can I say it is going to be delightful if this story is any indication? Of course, what am I saying? Everything Christi writes is amazing and this is one of the more lighthearted ones. It is a long journey to bring Clayton and Sylvia together, but so worth the wait!! Simply fun and or so wanton!
Step in the Mismatch Society! Seriously, what is it? Sylvia, now widowed, decided she was going to move out on her own and live independently. Well, she did have two roommates, both who would certainly cause scandal but she didn't care. Surprisingly when other ladies heard, they wanted to be part of that independence! Not be forced to wed or be "mismatched" and thus it began!
Clayton Kearsley, Lord St John, was responsible for his mother and six sisters. Yes, six! His father had passed away young, as was the curse for the Kearsley men. It seemed now, before his demise, he would need to marry and produce a heir so as not to leave them all without a home. But as he went to his club, he found his friends were upset over a new society that was encouraging women not to marry! He was determined to get to the bottom of it and went to confront them.
What he didn't expect was to find Sylvia in charge. Sylvia who had been married to his best friend. Sylvia, who he had cared about before his friend had married her. The friend who had left her for his mistress who he loved....
I just wanted to set up the series and can I say it is going to be delightful if this story is any indication? Of course, what am I saying? Everything Christi writes is amazing and this is one of the more lighthearted ones. It is a long journey to bring Clayton and Sylvia together, but so worth the wait!! Simply fun and or so wanton!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews