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Never the Bride #8
Always the Matchmaker
Always the matchmaker and never the bride—even when she's found her perfect partner...
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke does not believe there is anything greater than matching the perfect pair—and she's become rather expert in it. Never mind that she's never found the missing half to her own soul and body.
Perhaps that's not her lot in life, even at the age of eight and twenty.
Her own failure is Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. He's rude, he's arrogant, he's overly confident, and nothing Theodosia can do makes a difference. Albemarle has found his match though: and he is sure it is Theodosia.
He's determined to have her. She's not ready to accept defeat just yet. When you've always been right it's impossible to accept that you're wrong.
Can Theodosia step away from her matchmaker mindset for one minute and see the man in front of her—or will she lose him forever?
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order.
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke does not believe there is anything greater than matching the perfect pair—and she's become rather expert in it. Never mind that she's never found the missing half to her own soul and body.
Perhaps that's not her lot in life, even at the age of eight and twenty.
Her own failure is Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. He's rude, he's arrogant, he's overly confident, and nothing Theodosia can do makes a difference. Albemarle has found his match though: and he is sure it is Theodosia.
He's determined to have her. She's not ready to accept defeat just yet. When you've always been right it's impossible to accept that you're wrong.
Can Theodosia step away from her matchmaker mindset for one minute and see the man in front of her—or will she lose him forever?
This full length novel is a steamy Regency romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhangers, and is part of a series that can be read in any order.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2020
172 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
149 books282 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 3, 2020
Matchmaker Theodosia Ashbrooke is hired to find a bride for the arrogant Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. Albemarle is difficult and uninterested in a bride, until he begins to spar with Teddy. He becomes determined to have her, but she doesn't believe he is serious. Teddy has her work cut out for her, but the more she and Albie challenge each other, the more they are both drawn in.
This is the eighth book in the Never The Bride series. Previous couples are mentioned, and it helps to read book seven, but this book can stand alone. I liked the animosity between Teddy and Albie early in the story. I liked her matchmaking notes. This is one of my favorites in the series. 4.5 stars rounded to 5.
Tropes: Matchmaker, Working Heroine, Enemies to Lovers
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AlwaystheMatchmaker #NetGalley
This is the eighth book in the Never The Bride series. Previous couples are mentioned, and it helps to read book seven, but this book can stand alone. I liked the animosity between Teddy and Albie early in the story. I liked her matchmaking notes. This is one of my favorites in the series. 4.5 stars rounded to 5.
Tropes: Matchmaker, Working Heroine, Enemies to Lovers
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #AlwaystheMatchmaker #NetGalley
November 25, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
All the way through this series Theodosia has been a constant character, always in the background, making her matches of all the couples, at least that’s her story.
Now it’s her turn, faced with her biggest challenge yet , a disreputable Earl in his 40th year who will not follow the rules of society.
She’s engaged to help him find a bride by the Dowager Countess, but gets more than she bargained for when he sets his sights on her.
Wonderful, this had me riveted to the pages and I was just reading till I finished without stopping
It’s quite lighthearted in places but serious in others , there’s more to this lady than meets the eye.
She has a sad past that she needs to deal with .
But love always finds a way.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
All the way through this series Theodosia has been a constant character, always in the background, making her matches of all the couples, at least that’s her story.
Now it’s her turn, faced with her biggest challenge yet , a disreputable Earl in his 40th year who will not follow the rules of society.
She’s engaged to help him find a bride by the Dowager Countess, but gets more than she bargained for when he sets his sights on her.
Wonderful, this had me riveted to the pages and I was just reading till I finished without stopping
It’s quite lighthearted in places but serious in others , there’s more to this lady than meets the eye.
She has a sad past that she needs to deal with .
But love always finds a way.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
March 7, 2021
What a wonderfully humorous Regency story, filled with clever verbal banter, good imagery and appealing characters!
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 26, 2020
Having suffered heartache and pain, Theodosia Ashbrooke hones her skills to become the best matchmaker in Bath. With a number of successes under her belt, she is faced with an impossible task, that of finding the rude and arrogant Earl of Lenskeyn a bride. Albemarle is uncooperative from the very beginning, making it known that he has no intention of marrying, nor of having a brood of children running around his legs. With her work cut out for her, Theodosia does not realise that in challenging Albemarle, she is getting under his skin and becomes the object of his focus. This entertaining romance has interesting characters, although the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn is a terrifying character. I loved Albemarle's recalcitrant character and felt Theodosia's pain. Characters from previous books in this series appear in this one too, however, this romance is a standalone and comes to a happy and satisfactory conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift from NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
January 30, 2022
A very delightful read
January 22, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Always the Matchmaker is the latest instalment in the Never the Bride series, and this time around we see matchmaker supremo, Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke as she meets her hardest client yet, and might just lose her heart in the process. She's got a number of successes under the belt, but when the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn hires her to find a wife for her 39 year old son, the current Earl, she knows she's in for a struggle. Albemarle Howard is rude, arrogant, and has no intention to marry any time soon, no matter how old he is, but there's something about the fiesty matchmaker that sets him on edge, and if he has to marry, the only person he can imagine being with is Theodosia herself. Will he be able to convince her that he's sincere, and can Theodosia get over the heartbreak of her past, to have the happiness she deserves?
I've enjoyed each of the books in this series I've read, and this one was no different. Both Theodosia and Albemarle were likeable characters - Theodosia more than Albemarle - and I felt like their relationship progressed well. With the way they met, it was a frosty start, but their own humour, and personalities, won the day, and there were many lovable moments too. I did feel as if the angst and inevitable conflict was slightly obvious, and it detracted from the enjoyable a bit, but all in all, I enjoyed the book. I'm so happy Theodosia has had her own love story, after helping so many others.
Always the Matchmaker is the latest instalment in the Never the Bride series, and this time around we see matchmaker supremo, Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke as she meets her hardest client yet, and might just lose her heart in the process. She's got a number of successes under the belt, but when the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn hires her to find a wife for her 39 year old son, the current Earl, she knows she's in for a struggle. Albemarle Howard is rude, arrogant, and has no intention to marry any time soon, no matter how old he is, but there's something about the fiesty matchmaker that sets him on edge, and if he has to marry, the only person he can imagine being with is Theodosia herself. Will he be able to convince her that he's sincere, and can Theodosia get over the heartbreak of her past, to have the happiness she deserves?
I've enjoyed each of the books in this series I've read, and this one was no different. Both Theodosia and Albemarle were likeable characters - Theodosia more than Albemarle - and I felt like their relationship progressed well. With the way they met, it was a frosty start, but their own humour, and personalities, won the day, and there were many lovable moments too. I did feel as if the angst and inevitable conflict was slightly obvious, and it detracted from the enjoyable a bit, but all in all, I enjoyed the book. I'm so happy Theodosia has had her own love story, after helping so many others.
December 2, 2020
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke was always happy to see her matchmaking skills turn into a wedding. There was nothing better except maybe seeing the couple kiss and be happy. "But a matchmaker did not receive proposals. She orchestrated them."
Her next challenge, and it would be a challenge, was to match Albemarle, Earl of Lenskeyn to a bride. His mother, the Dowager (yes, a dowager for sure!) had asked if she would take him on.. He was forty after all and urgently need to sire an heir.
When she met him her thought was "He was handsome with that brooding countenance that Lord Byron had made so attractive... He was.. heartstopping!" But on to his training. Yes, a man could be trained and he had a lot to learn. Then something very unexpected happened, He became attracted to her. Her! But she was the matchmaker!
A wonderfully delightful, story that I could not stop once I began. Such witty banter, a secret that will come out and a successful match, most unexpected!! Sigh...
Her next challenge, and it would be a challenge, was to match Albemarle, Earl of Lenskeyn to a bride. His mother, the Dowager (yes, a dowager for sure!) had asked if she would take him on.. He was forty after all and urgently need to sire an heir.
When she met him her thought was "He was handsome with that brooding countenance that Lord Byron had made so attractive... He was.. heartstopping!" But on to his training. Yes, a man could be trained and he had a lot to learn. Then something very unexpected happened, He became attracted to her. Her! But she was the matchmaker!
A wonderfully delightful, story that I could not stop once I began. Such witty banter, a secret that will come out and a successful match, most unexpected!! Sigh...
November 26, 2021
Always the Matchmaker, Book 8 of the Never the Bride series, was about Miss Theodosia "Teddy" Ashbrooke, the 28-year-old "professional" matchmaker (though she later said she was 29), and Lord Albemarle "Albie" Howard, the Earl of Lenskeyn.
Theodosia took great pride in how many well-matched couples she had assisted in her 8 years as a matchmaker. She stated she had only a handful that fell apart, but that was due to the couples' actions after marriage and not anything she had any control over. When she was hired by the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn to help her 39-year-old son find a wife, she knew it would be the greatest challenge she had ever taken on.
Albie didn't like being in England, let alone Bath, and he absolutely detested the idea of procuring a wife and children. When his mother decided to hire Theodosia, he was livid...yet intrigued as well. She tested him in ways no other woman ever had, even treated him with a touch of disdain that no one ever dared to before. He was arrogant, over-confident in himself, and didn't believe he needed to bother with social niceties...all because "he was the fourteenth Earl of Lenskeyn".
This story was well-written and had so many twists and turns in it that it boggled the mind. It was definitely riveting, to say the least. The characters were well-developed and fleshed out with a good deal of chemistry and passion between the two main characters. The appearances of several others from previous stories filled out the remaining characters and made the story fit in perfectly with the series.
I didn't like Theodosia...in the beginning. She was a braggart, a conniving, interfering know-it-all. She appeared in several of the previous books in the series, and I didn't like how she was portrayed as a woman who loved to stick her nose in where it didn't belong, and she seemed to delight in forcing her attention where they weren't wanted, as was apparent in at least two other books. However, she sort of grew on me the more I read her story. There was definitely more to her than first met the eye.
Albie, for all that he was nearly 40 years of age, had a lot of growing up to do. Although an Earl for many years, he ran from his responsibilities for a long time, leaving his mother to pick up the slack. When she finally put her foot down and told him it was time to marry, he balked but fell in line...sort of. He still had a great deal to learn...which he did when he worked with Teddy, the matchmaker, and promptly fell in love with her.
It was a good story that kept the reader's attention. Although it had a bit more fluff than I generally enjoy, the humor that was liberally sprinkled throughout the book was well worth the reading. Still, it wasn't worth a five-star rating, but at least more than a one-star book.
Theodosia took great pride in how many well-matched couples she had assisted in her 8 years as a matchmaker. She stated she had only a handful that fell apart, but that was due to the couples' actions after marriage and not anything she had any control over. When she was hired by the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn to help her 39-year-old son find a wife, she knew it would be the greatest challenge she had ever taken on.
Albie didn't like being in England, let alone Bath, and he absolutely detested the idea of procuring a wife and children. When his mother decided to hire Theodosia, he was livid...yet intrigued as well. She tested him in ways no other woman ever had, even treated him with a touch of disdain that no one ever dared to before. He was arrogant, over-confident in himself, and didn't believe he needed to bother with social niceties...all because "he was the fourteenth Earl of Lenskeyn".
This story was well-written and had so many twists and turns in it that it boggled the mind. It was definitely riveting, to say the least. The characters were well-developed and fleshed out with a good deal of chemistry and passion between the two main characters. The appearances of several others from previous stories filled out the remaining characters and made the story fit in perfectly with the series.
I didn't like Theodosia...in the beginning. She was a braggart, a conniving, interfering know-it-all. She appeared in several of the previous books in the series, and I didn't like how she was portrayed as a woman who loved to stick her nose in where it didn't belong, and she seemed to delight in forcing her attention where they weren't wanted, as was apparent in at least two other books. However, she sort of grew on me the more I read her story. There was definitely more to her than first met the eye.
Albie, for all that he was nearly 40 years of age, had a lot of growing up to do. Although an Earl for many years, he ran from his responsibilities for a long time, leaving his mother to pick up the slack. When she finally put her foot down and told him it was time to marry, he balked but fell in line...sort of. He still had a great deal to learn...which he did when he worked with Teddy, the matchmaker, and promptly fell in love with her.
It was a good story that kept the reader's attention. Although it had a bit more fluff than I generally enjoy, the humor that was liberally sprinkled throughout the book was well worth the reading. Still, it wasn't worth a five-star rating, but at least more than a one-star book.
November 25, 2020
Always the Matchmaker by Emily EK Murdoch is the newest in her Never the Bride series and a worthy submission it is. The story takes several major twists before the conclusion is happily reached. Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is matchmaker to the nobility and she is excellent at her job, with nearly two hundred happy matches made and only a small handful of matches, which had failed, for one reason or another. Albemarle, Earl of Lenskeyn, is a young 40 and has managed to avoid marriage thus far, largely because he stays away from England, and therefore away from his marriage and heir crazy mother. He is here now and she has him in her sights. His mother knows he is hopeless and is willing to double Miss Ashbrooke's usual fee in order to find him a wife. He is decidedly uncooperative. Miss Ashbrooke realizes he must be trained before he could be a proper husband to anyone. She is willing to take on the task. He doesn't take long before he is hopelessly in love with her, despite her rebuffing him at every turn. Then there is his mother.
Miss Ashbrooke (Teddy) has the perfect personality for her work. She is well-organized, self-contained, and very precise in her observations. She can see what's right in a relationship as well as what is wrong, and endeavors to keep her client from making a mistake. She is lovely, despite her nine and twenty years putting her on the edge of spinsterhood. Albie is rude, sarcastic, obnoxious and has an extremely high opinion of himself. None-the-less, he is an earl and quite wealthy. Teddy is confident she can train him and it is amusing to watch her try. They really are a terrific pair. Murdoch has done very well with this book. It is a really fun read as well as being romantic and sexy. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Matchmaker by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaysthematchmaker
Miss Ashbrooke (Teddy) has the perfect personality for her work. She is well-organized, self-contained, and very precise in her observations. She can see what's right in a relationship as well as what is wrong, and endeavors to keep her client from making a mistake. She is lovely, despite her nine and twenty years putting her on the edge of spinsterhood. Albie is rude, sarcastic, obnoxious and has an extremely high opinion of himself. None-the-less, he is an earl and quite wealthy. Teddy is confident she can train him and it is amusing to watch her try. They really are a terrific pair. Murdoch has done very well with this book. It is a really fun read as well as being romantic and sexy. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Always the Matchmaker by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #alwaysthematchmaker
January 2, 2021
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is a popular matchmaker with several successful marriages on her list. When a dowager countess enlists her help to secure a bride for her son Albemarle Howard, the Earl of Lenskeyn, it's obvious that he needs some work to make him matchable. This requires Theodosia and Lenskeyn to spend some time together, and they fall in love sooner rather than later. But she has experienced some heartbreak before and there is a societal divide between them that puts obstacles on the way.
I liked the story, the writing style and the characters and I would read more from this author.
There is some minor inaccuracy with the titles, at least for minor characters. There is a duke whose younger brother is a Marquess which I think would be impossible unless the younger brother was awarded a new title for his own merits. And Theodosia expects her baby to be called Lady Howard if it's a girl, but Lady Howard is a married woman's title.
Albemarle's brother is said to have died two weeks before the book starts, but I forgot about that completely while reading as he doesn't seem to be observing the usual mourning customs. He attends parties and even his wedding is said to take place only a little over a month after the brother died. This made the timeline a little fuzzy for me since two or three weeks don't seem to be enough time for all the events in the plot to unfurl.
I got the ARC from Netgalley and I'm writing a honest review.
I liked the story, the writing style and the characters and I would read more from this author.
There is some minor inaccuracy with the titles, at least for minor characters. There is a duke whose younger brother is a Marquess which I think would be impossible unless the younger brother was awarded a new title for his own merits. And Theodosia expects her baby to be called Lady Howard if it's a girl, but Lady Howard is a married woman's title.
Albemarle's brother is said to have died two weeks before the book starts, but I forgot about that completely while reading as he doesn't seem to be observing the usual mourning customs. He attends parties and even his wedding is said to take place only a little over a month after the brother died. This made the timeline a little fuzzy for me since two or three weeks don't seem to be enough time for all the events in the plot to unfurl.
I got the ARC from Netgalley and I'm writing a honest review.
March 2, 2022
Endearing 8th book in charming series
This is a charming and easy read that kept me entertained. Theodosia Ashbrooke is the Matchmaker who was introduced in some of the earlier books in this series. She is a 29 year old spinster who is hired by the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn to find a match for her almost 40 year old son Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. On the first meeting between the two Theodosia realizes that she has her work cut out for her - he is bold and rude with appalling manners. How will she ever find him a wife? Albermarle is in many ways immature and off putting but he sees something in Theodosia that others do not and he begins to see her as more than the matchmaker. Maybe she can be his match? I loved the wit and banter that developed between the two and that they were both willing to show a passionate side that others rarely discovered. Their path forward, if there is to be one, however, will not be easy. Theodosia has a past with secrets and will the Dowager Countess accept her son’s choice? I enjoyed that the main subjects of this book are older than the typical historical romance couples and found the storyline both calm and endearing. I am looking forward to the next book in this charming series.
This is a charming and easy read that kept me entertained. Theodosia Ashbrooke is the Matchmaker who was introduced in some of the earlier books in this series. She is a 29 year old spinster who is hired by the Dowager Countess of Lenskeyn to find a match for her almost 40 year old son Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. On the first meeting between the two Theodosia realizes that she has her work cut out for her - he is bold and rude with appalling manners. How will she ever find him a wife? Albermarle is in many ways immature and off putting but he sees something in Theodosia that others do not and he begins to see her as more than the matchmaker. Maybe she can be his match? I loved the wit and banter that developed between the two and that they were both willing to show a passionate side that others rarely discovered. Their path forward, if there is to be one, however, will not be easy. Theodosia has a past with secrets and will the Dowager Countess accept her son’s choice? I enjoyed that the main subjects of this book are older than the typical historical romance couples and found the storyline both calm and endearing. I am looking forward to the next book in this charming series.
November 27, 2020
Matchmaker Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is about to have her biggest challenge to date. The Countess of Lenskeyn hires her to find a wife for her son, Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. He’s almost forty years old with no prospect of marriage or producing an heir. Albemarle aka Albie is appalled his mother is hiring a matchmaker to find him a wife, he doesn’t want or need a wife. He can play this little game for his mother, just see how far this game goes. He’s such a rude obnoxious man it’s no wonder he can’t find a wife, Theodosia has her work cut out for her if she’s to find him a wife. I love the witty banter with these two as Theo is brutally honesty with Albie and he’s quite taken aback by some of the observations. It’s a fun read as these to grow to like one another and fall in love, only to have more obstacles thrown in the path of love. I have voluntarily read and reviewed these excellent story.
November 28, 2020
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is a very successful matchmaker, with many happy marriages to her credit. At the latest of these weddings she is asked to find a bride for a very reluctant groom. His mother is pushing him to start making heirs.
Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn is nearly forty years old and has spent most of his adult life exploring the continent. Since the death of his younger brother his mother is getting more demanding than ever. He has no intention of doing anything he doesn't want to, why should he, he's an Earl.
This is a very amusing historical romance. Our heroine knows exactly who she is and is content with it. She has the respect of society and is invited everywhere. Her talent has also given her enough money to live comfortably. Our hero is bored with everything England has to offer, including the young Misses paraded before him.
This book is part of a series, but easily read on it's own.
I loved it.
Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn is nearly forty years old and has spent most of his adult life exploring the continent. Since the death of his younger brother his mother is getting more demanding than ever. He has no intention of doing anything he doesn't want to, why should he, he's an Earl.
This is a very amusing historical romance. Our heroine knows exactly who she is and is content with it. She has the respect of society and is invited everywhere. Her talent has also given her enough money to live comfortably. Our hero is bored with everything England has to offer, including the young Misses paraded before him.
This book is part of a series, but easily read on it's own.
I loved it.
December 7, 2020
The best matchmaker in Bath, Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke, falls for an unwillingly client, Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn. This book was an easy, breezy read with interesting characters and fantastic, witty banter. I loved that Theodosia and Albemarle (do not love his name, lol) were very open and honest with each other, and their stinging quips and verbal barbs were really fun to read.
Like in several other books by this author, there came a point where the hero just needed to be knocked upside the head for not thinking. But, all is well in the end and a happy ever after for everyone.
I would have like to see more of the drama unfold with Albemarle's mother on the page. This book can be read as a stand alone, though it is part of a series with all interconnected secondary characters, many who made brief appearances here.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragon Blade publishing for a copy of this book. The opinions are my own and freely given.
Like in several other books by this author, there came a point where the hero just needed to be knocked upside the head for not thinking. But, all is well in the end and a happy ever after for everyone.
I would have like to see more of the drama unfold with Albemarle's mother on the page. This book can be read as a stand alone, though it is part of a series with all interconnected secondary characters, many who made brief appearances here.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragon Blade publishing for a copy of this book. The opinions are my own and freely given.
April 25, 2025
In which the matchmaker makes her own match!
Theodosia Ashbrooke has been responsible for many of the happy marriages we have seen over the previous books.
Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyne is nearly forty and his mother approaches Theodosia to find him a wife.
Albemarle is unwilling to marry but is fascinated by Theodosia and gradually finds himself falling for her.
Theodosia has her own reasons for her reluctance (we discover these later in the book).
Albemarle is not particularly sensitive to other people’s feelings and makes a dreadful hash of his proposals and then the revelation of his intention to marry Theodosia to his mother in a public place where her reaction is unpleasant for Theodosia.
We also discover that Frances (the lady in the previous book who did not marry Charles) gets her happy ending.
I enjoyed the fact that the main characters were some what older than usual, and that Theodosia was successfully earning her own living.
Theodosia Ashbrooke has been responsible for many of the happy marriages we have seen over the previous books.
Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyne is nearly forty and his mother approaches Theodosia to find him a wife.
Albemarle is unwilling to marry but is fascinated by Theodosia and gradually finds himself falling for her.
Theodosia has her own reasons for her reluctance (we discover these later in the book).
Albemarle is not particularly sensitive to other people’s feelings and makes a dreadful hash of his proposals and then the revelation of his intention to marry Theodosia to his mother in a public place where her reaction is unpleasant for Theodosia.
We also discover that Frances (the lady in the previous book who did not marry Charles) gets her happy ending.
I enjoyed the fact that the main characters were some what older than usual, and that Theodosia was successfully earning her own living.
December 2, 2020
Arrogantly in love
Albemarle aka Albie is so arrogant as an Earl he should have been a Duke! He has run away to the continent for 10 years and really did not want to be back on England's shores! Well his mother wants grandchildren not much is said about his father but he has several children that were not from his wife and they seem to unacknowledged? Theodosia aka Theo or Teddy services were engaged to find him a bride. With her wit, intelligence and no nonsense manner Albie was intrigued and close to 40 old enough to know his own mind! Teddy has been hurt before and is hesitant to say yes to Albie! It doesn't help everyone is not happy for them! But Albie is rude, arrogant and brusque but not a liar...can you trust his love and her heart? Will she get her own HEA? Also if have questions from the previous book there are answers!!
Albemarle aka Albie is so arrogant as an Earl he should have been a Duke! He has run away to the continent for 10 years and really did not want to be back on England's shores! Well his mother wants grandchildren not much is said about his father but he has several children that were not from his wife and they seem to unacknowledged? Theodosia aka Theo or Teddy services were engaged to find him a bride. With her wit, intelligence and no nonsense manner Albie was intrigued and close to 40 old enough to know his own mind! Teddy has been hurt before and is hesitant to say yes to Albie! It doesn't help everyone is not happy for them! But Albie is rude, arrogant and brusque but not a liar...can you trust his love and her heart? Will she get her own HEA? Also if have questions from the previous book there are answers!!
October 5, 2021
Theodosius and Albemarle
After a cruel twist of fate, Theodosius set herself up as a matchmaker. She'd been quite successful and was sought out by many families with the wealth to pay her fees. Her unbroken rule had always been that she was never to fall in love with a client.
Albemarle has been absent from his homeland for years. His mother arranged to see him at least once a year to make demands on him as to what he should be doing with his life. His brother had died recently, and he had little question as to what subject she wished to accost him about this time!
I found this book full of humor and teasing, both are among my favorites when reading romance novels. There is an underlying sadness which offers the gravity that seems to be a part of life and certainly adds to the seeming reality of the book. I quite enjoyed this book and hope you will, too.
After a cruel twist of fate, Theodosius set herself up as a matchmaker. She'd been quite successful and was sought out by many families with the wealth to pay her fees. Her unbroken rule had always been that she was never to fall in love with a client.
Albemarle has been absent from his homeland for years. His mother arranged to see him at least once a year to make demands on him as to what he should be doing with his life. His brother had died recently, and he had little question as to what subject she wished to accost him about this time!
I found this book full of humor and teasing, both are among my favorites when reading romance novels. There is an underlying sadness which offers the gravity that seems to be a part of life and certainly adds to the seeming reality of the book. I quite enjoyed this book and hope you will, too.
January 15, 2025
On the whole enjoyable, lots of familiar faces which I lovr, and a few new ones to spice things up. Like we are more of Devonshire and Braedon.
Have an issue with the timelines though.
The agree to marry, set wedding day for ten days time and sleep together that night, but with three days to go to wedding she knows she's pregnant and suffering morning sickness, unlikely one would know now, but utterly ridiculous that they'd know then.
Also with death of a son or husband it's unlikely that Elmores mother would attend a wedding within a week of his funeral, or his wife host a tea party. At this time twelve months mourning was very much de rigour. The females of the family would not be expected to be out in public for a year.
Having said that I enjoyed this book.
Have an issue with the timelines though.
The agree to marry, set wedding day for ten days time and sleep together that night, but with three days to go to wedding she knows she's pregnant and suffering morning sickness, unlikely one would know now, but utterly ridiculous that they'd know then.
Also with death of a son or husband it's unlikely that Elmores mother would attend a wedding within a week of his funeral, or his wife host a tea party. At this time twelve months mourning was very much de rigour. The females of the family would not be expected to be out in public for a year.
Having said that I enjoyed this book.
December 3, 2020
Teddy is devoted to her career after she loses her one chance at love for lack of a title. She has built her life based on making matches and has been very successful at it until she meets Albie. Albie's mother has decided he needs a bride who must have a title. He has wasted enough of his life doing nothing and she is ready for him to start a family. Albie is headstong, rude and privileged. It will take a lot of work for Teddy to prepare him to find a bride. There is an even bigger problem, he has already found the woman he wants to marry. I thought this was a great read and a unique storyline that I haven't seen before.
January 12, 2021
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is the most successful matchmaker in London. She works very hard to find a love match for her clients. One client will be the most challenging of all. Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn, has no desire to marry. He's lived a carefree life on the continent. When his mother requested his return to London he couldn't say no. Unbeknownst to him, his mother hired a matchmaker. His first interview with Miss Ashbrooke is a delight for she intrigues him and constantly challenges him. Is it any wonder that he quickly knows she will be his bride. Theodosia isn't ready to admit she finds him just as attractive. How many times must a man ask "will you marry me," before she says "YES."??? An entertaining, funny, painful courtship of an Earl who's met his match.
January 21, 2021
Miss Theodosia Ashbrook is extraordinarily successful at what she does. She is a matchmaker and has several happy marriages to her credit. Then why is she not married? Could it be that she will never marry? After all she has reach the age of eight and twenty and time is growing short. After her last marriage is complete, she is asked to help a reluctant groom to find a bride. That is what she does best. A disreputable Earl needs to marry and wishes her to find him a Dowager Countess, but she finds that this might be a bit more that she can do. What an interesting plot, great characters, and plenty of action. I really enjoyed reading this book.
July 11, 2022
Albemarle/Albie & Theodosia/Teddy. And the award for most unfortunate names goes to…
Other than the name issue, I enjoyed this book. She is a matchmaker and his mother hires her to find her son (40y/o) a wife so there will be heirs. Problem is he’s a PITA that has no desire to marry. She takes him on as a client/project to make him marriage material. He fights her all along the way but she gives it back just as much. Their fiery exchanges lead to feelings. He decides she’s what he wants for his wife and after 3 proposals she finally accepts but his mama is pissed about it. Finally we have a gentleman that stands up to his mother for the woman he loves.
Other than the name issue, I enjoyed this book. She is a matchmaker and his mother hires her to find her son (40y/o) a wife so there will be heirs. Problem is he’s a PITA that has no desire to marry. She takes him on as a client/project to make him marriage material. He fights her all along the way but she gives it back just as much. Their fiery exchanges lead to feelings. He decides she’s what he wants for his wife and after 3 proposals she finally accepts but his mama is pissed about it. Finally we have a gentleman that stands up to his mother for the woman he loves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2020
Theodosia and Albemarle are names I’ve never heard before (and I do a lot of ancestry research), so it was a bit to think about how these people looked like.
Nevertheless the story had banter, witty remarks and falling in love. Very cute story. I always like the regency/historical romance stories where both are older then what was the “normal” age to marry.
I will check out other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Nevertheless the story had banter, witty remarks and falling in love. Very cute story. I always like the regency/historical romance stories where both are older then what was the “normal” age to marry.
I will check out other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this arc ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2020
The Earl of Lenskeyn, Albemarle Howard has been summoned to Bath by his mother to meet with the matchmaker because he needs a bride so he can produce an heir. Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke has her hands full to deal with him. He has so any bad habits she has her work cut out for her. The more she works with him the more she likes him and sees through to his good qualities. He decides she should be his bride and she does love him but she tried this once before and it did not work out. Can they find their way to each other?
November 30, 2020
A match
Theodosia (Teddy) is a strong no nonsense matchmaker with her hardest client yet. Albemarle (Albie) is rude and stubborn and does not want to get married but his mother hired Teddy to find him a wife. But when Teddy turns out to be what he wants, Teddy refuses him. After all he is an earl and she is a regular Miss. Add in Albie's mother who only wants a titled lady for her son does not make their love for on another an easy thing. I really liked Teddy and was glad she found someone.
Theodosia (Teddy) is a strong no nonsense matchmaker with her hardest client yet. Albemarle (Albie) is rude and stubborn and does not want to get married but his mother hired Teddy to find him a wife. But when Teddy turns out to be what he wants, Teddy refuses him. After all he is an earl and she is a regular Miss. Add in Albie's mother who only wants a titled lady for her son does not make their love for on another an easy thing. I really liked Teddy and was glad she found someone.
June 10, 2023
Always the Matchmaker by Emily E K Murdoch
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is an exceptional matchmaker. Her latest challenge is the Earl of Lenskyn , Albie is a very rude and arrogant man even for an Earl and he has no interest in marriage. Miss Ashbrooke is definitely up for the challenge and is not shy about pulling him up for his shortcoming . After being made aware of his faults and verbal sparing with Miss Ashbrooke The Earl decides he wants to marry Theodosia.
A very well written book which is a lovely read. Full of humour on the bumpy journey with the odd twist.
Miss Theodosia Ashbrooke is an exceptional matchmaker. Her latest challenge is the Earl of Lenskyn , Albie is a very rude and arrogant man even for an Earl and he has no interest in marriage. Miss Ashbrooke is definitely up for the challenge and is not shy about pulling him up for his shortcoming . After being made aware of his faults and verbal sparing with Miss Ashbrooke The Earl decides he wants to marry Theodosia.
A very well written book which is a lovely read. Full of humour on the bumpy journey with the odd twist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2020
The last thing Albemarle Howard, Earl of Lenskeyn, wants is to find a wife. His mother feels differently and engages the services of Theodosia Ashbrooke, matchmaker. The arrogant Earl did his best to deter her efforts, but nothing worked. Teddy is unimpressed by his bloviating. She put him in his place, and then put herself in his heart. Love is in the air until Albie makes a misstep. Can he fix his mistake?
Theodosia and Albie fit together perfectly. I love their banter. I am happy to see Theodosia get her story after making matches for so many other couples. This is a charming story with loveable characters, a perfect addition to the series. I recommend it and the rest of the series.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
Theodosia and Albie fit together perfectly. I love their banter. I am happy to see Theodosia get her story after making matches for so many other couples. This is a charming story with loveable characters, a perfect addition to the series. I recommend it and the rest of the series.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
December 1, 2020
The Rake and the matchmaker
How does a woman survive after falling prey to a fake Duke? She helps others find true love and happiness! Albie was convinced of his own self worth and unwilling to cooperate with his mother's plan for him to settle down. But his mother never planned on him falling for Theo, his dedicated matchmaker. I just love this series of not so perfect ladies and their not so perfect men. They are perfectly delicious!
How does a woman survive after falling prey to a fake Duke? She helps others find true love and happiness! Albie was convinced of his own self worth and unwilling to cooperate with his mother's plan for him to settle down. But his mother never planned on him falling for Theo, his dedicated matchmaker. I just love this series of not so perfect ladies and their not so perfect men. They are perfectly delicious!
December 16, 2020
This was a cute romance. I quite like our hero, who so struggled to get his woman. A nice bit of humour and interesting personalities of the two main characters. While you knew that there were characters from previous books mentioned and in person, it didn't leave readers puzzled as to the current books plot. Overall, and enjoyable romance. *I received an ARC from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 1, 2021
I thought this story was particularly sad for the main female character and really felt for all she endured from an emotionally abusive husband who openly cheated and gambled them into deep debt. The male lead was such a bright spot but rather clueless of the real world. Their journey to happily ever after was emotional, bumpy, and beautiful. I loved how it all turned out. #alwaysthewidow #netgalley
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