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At the Kingsborough Ball #2
Schandalige romance
Een lady, een markies, een schandaal…
Om te voorkomen dat haar inhalige tante haar opzadelt met een hoogbejaarde fat, heeft Lady Rebecca twee jaar lang gedaan alsof ze krankzinnig was. de huwelijkskandidaten liggen daarom nu niet meteen voor het oprapen. Maar Rebecca is vastbesloten om zo snel mogelijk, én op eigen kracht, een geschikte echtgenoot te vinden.
Als Lord Daniel Neville niet binnen een maand een vrouw vindt, zal zijn oom zijn toelage voorgoed stopzetten en kan hij de titel van markies van Wolvington op zijn buik schrijven. Alleen is hij gezien zijn turbulente verleden niet bepaald de ideale bruidegom.
Tijdens een dans op het beroemde Kingsborough-bal springt de vonk tussen Rebecca en Daniel meteen over. Zal er iets moois tussen hen opbloeien, of is hun beider reputatie een te groot obstakel voor het huwelijksgeluk?
Om te voorkomen dat haar inhalige tante haar opzadelt met een hoogbejaarde fat, heeft Lady Rebecca twee jaar lang gedaan alsof ze krankzinnig was. de huwelijkskandidaten liggen daarom nu niet meteen voor het oprapen. Maar Rebecca is vastbesloten om zo snel mogelijk, én op eigen kracht, een geschikte echtgenoot te vinden.
Als Lord Daniel Neville niet binnen een maand een vrouw vindt, zal zijn oom zijn toelage voorgoed stopzetten en kan hij de titel van markies van Wolvington op zijn buik schrijven. Alleen is hij gezien zijn turbulente verleden niet bepaald de ideale bruidegom.
Tijdens een dans op het beroemde Kingsborough-bal springt de vonk tussen Rebecca en Daniel meteen over. Zal er iets moois tussen hen opbloeien, of is hun beider reputatie een te groot obstakel voor het huwelijksgeluk?
318 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 2013
194 people are currently reading
951 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Barnes
67 books1,753 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Sophie Barnes writes historical romance novels in which the characters break away from social expectations in their quest for happiness and love. Having written for Avon, an imprint of Harper Collins, her books have been published internationally in eight languages. With a fondness for travel, Sophie has lived in six countries, on three continents, and speaks English, Danish, French, Spanish, and Romanian with varying degrees of fluency. Ever the romantic, she married the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she’s not busy dreaming up her next swoon worthy romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, practicing yoga, baking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading.
For all the latest releases, promotions, and exclusive story updates, subscribe to Sophie Barnes’ newsletter today: www.sophiebarnes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
April 29, 2018
DNF 54%
I think I'm going to through the book version of this:
I have a ton of books to read (don't we all) but nothing is sticking. Either I've become terrible at picking books, or I'm just being overly picky/grouchy. After making decent headway, I'm finding something wrong with all of them. This book suffered from one of my biggest pet peeves. So many fucking misunderstandings. I get that certain things weren't talked about so there are bound to be some misunderstandings. But this book is incredibly inconsistent. Lady Rebecca has no filter and is completely honest. It is one of the things that Daniel likes about her. If, when she's considering whether to marry Daniel or not, she's willing to ask whether he's caught the French disease by sleeping around so much, you'd think she could come right out and ask "What was that all about?" when she sees something that could be misconstrued. Rebecca is constantly getting her feelings hurt by things she doesn't even try to understand or ask about. And Daniel is smart enough to understand what she thinks she saw but refuses to set her straight! There isn't enough actual plot to distract from all of the annoying misunderstandings so all we're left with is a bunch of hurt feelings, on both sides. Jesus, people, you're making my head hurt. If my eyes roll any harder into the back of my head, they might just get stuck there.
I would normally finish this book, as the writing is fine it flows and all that, but I don't want to. Plain and simple. Sophie Barnes is a well-established author and I'll probably read her other books but I keep wanting to smack both the hero and the heroine over the head with my kindle, and that's kind of ruining it for me. I'm sure plenty of people will love this book, I just didn't.
I think I'm going to through the book version of this:
I have a ton of books to read (don't we all) but nothing is sticking. Either I've become terrible at picking books, or I'm just being overly picky/grouchy. After making decent headway, I'm finding something wrong with all of them. This book suffered from one of my biggest pet peeves. So many fucking misunderstandings. I get that certain things weren't talked about so there are bound to be some misunderstandings. But this book is incredibly inconsistent. Lady Rebecca has no filter and is completely honest. It is one of the things that Daniel likes about her. If, when she's considering whether to marry Daniel or not, she's willing to ask whether he's caught the French disease by sleeping around so much, you'd think she could come right out and ask "What was that all about?" when she sees something that could be misconstrued. Rebecca is constantly getting her feelings hurt by things she doesn't even try to understand or ask about. And Daniel is smart enough to understand what she thinks she saw but refuses to set her straight! There isn't enough actual plot to distract from all of the annoying misunderstandings so all we're left with is a bunch of hurt feelings, on both sides. Jesus, people, you're making my head hurt. If my eyes roll any harder into the back of my head, they might just get stuck there.
I would normally finish this book, as the writing is fine it flows and all that, but I don't want to. Plain and simple. Sophie Barnes is a well-established author and I'll probably read her other books but I keep wanting to smack both the hero and the heroine over the head with my kindle, and that's kind of ruining it for me. I'm sure plenty of people will love this book, I just didn't.
April 5, 2015
This was such a great story. I loved that it was not full of angst the whole way through. Fantastic relief. More authors should write books with less angst like this one.
I absolutely loved the heroine in this story. She was funny, charming, very witty, beautiful and so happy, especially considering how she was treated by her aunt and uncle.
Loved Daniel, he was handsome, smart, and such a hero!
The chemistry between the two is fantastic. I really loved the way they got to know each other, I mean really and truly got to know each other. Yes there was attraction at first sight but it was so much more than that. The sex scenes were very very well written. They really liked each other in and out of bed. LOL The honesty between them is so great and not the norm for historical romance novels.
The story line and plot are great. The story flowed so well and just when you thought oh noo there is going to be a misunderstanding here... there wasn't!
I listened/read this in one day it so much fun to listen too, A genuine treat!
I totally recommend this book for all you historical romance fans that want to read a book with less angst and a hero and heroine you can really believe are made for each other.
As for the narration, it was fantastic. Susan Duerden did a fantastic job as usual. The men sound like men the women sound like women, all the characters get their own distinct voice. She reads with all the emotion the story calls for. Perfect narrator for this book!
Just a great very well written story! I want to see more of this author on audible!
I absolutely loved the heroine in this story. She was funny, charming, very witty, beautiful and so happy, especially considering how she was treated by her aunt and uncle.
Loved Daniel, he was handsome, smart, and such a hero!
The chemistry between the two is fantastic. I really loved the way they got to know each other, I mean really and truly got to know each other. Yes there was attraction at first sight but it was so much more than that. The sex scenes were very very well written. They really liked each other in and out of bed. LOL The honesty between them is so great and not the norm for historical romance novels.
The story line and plot are great. The story flowed so well and just when you thought oh noo there is going to be a misunderstanding here... there wasn't!
I listened/read this in one day it so much fun to listen too, A genuine treat!
I totally recommend this book for all you historical romance fans that want to read a book with less angst and a hero and heroine you can really believe are made for each other.
As for the narration, it was fantastic. Susan Duerden did a fantastic job as usual. The men sound like men the women sound like women, all the characters get their own distinct voice. She reads with all the emotion the story calls for. Perfect narrator for this book!
Just a great very well written story! I want to see more of this author on audible!
March 10, 2023
2.5 pretty boring stars.
October 7, 2014
Here's another one I wanted to love. Maybe it's because I read this before I read the first book in the series, but I just didn't like it. There were too many instances where the heroine acted and sounded too modern. I'm quite certain that ladies in the Regency period didn't come back with a whatever (or something similar - this is not intended as a direct quote, just the feeling of modernism I got while reading) when they were irked. It just didn't feel true to the period.
I also didn't like the heroine - AT ALL. I couldn't find anything remotely likable about her. She never seemed like she stayed true to character and the things she did were just...wrong-seeming for the way she'd been set up. She wasn't credible at all. I did like Daniel, however. A reformed rake is always my favorite hero.
I also didn't like the heroine - AT ALL. I couldn't find anything remotely likable about her. She never seemed like she stayed true to character and the things she did were just...wrong-seeming for the way she'd been set up. She wasn't credible at all. I did like Daniel, however. A reformed rake is always my favorite hero.
December 11, 2013
Lady Rebecca has created a a scandal about herself to prevent her greedy aunt and uncle from marrying her off to a much older duke. However, her desire to choose her own husband leads her to the Kingsborough ball in hopes of finding a much more suitable husband and this all seems to be working as she is instantly drawn to the rakish Daniel Neville...until she gets shot! Her secret is out and her aunt and uncle are furious and Daniel sees a need to save her so he offers for her. A fresh scandal happens and it changes the life of Daniel and Rebecca forever. Daniel tries to protect Rebecca from the truth but in the process, he may lose her due to his secrets as Rebecca is unsure if she can trust that Daniel has turned away from his rakish lifestyle for her... Questions arise, questions are answered and true love grows as this couple strives to find their path of happiness.
This was yet another charming, fast paced, enjoyable read from the delights of Sophie Barnes! I very much enjoyed how open our couple was with each other (about most things) and how the accepted consequences of their actions and moved forward without wallowing in the past. Daniel has put up quite a rakish front with his confident and easy manner but he is really hurting from the pain his parents caused by their deaths. Rebecca is like a breath of fresh air with her openness to talk, charm, smarts, humor, adventurous nature and exotic beauty. Together, they fit and they just need to convince society, and themselves, of that fact. Warmth, wit and a quick, enjoyable pace with lovely moments of passion make this a winner for many historical romance fans. 4 stars
eARC provided by Avon Books via edelweiss
This was yet another charming, fast paced, enjoyable read from the delights of Sophie Barnes! I very much enjoyed how open our couple was with each other (about most things) and how the accepted consequences of their actions and moved forward without wallowing in the past. Daniel has put up quite a rakish front with his confident and easy manner but he is really hurting from the pain his parents caused by their deaths. Rebecca is like a breath of fresh air with her openness to talk, charm, smarts, humor, adventurous nature and exotic beauty. Together, they fit and they just need to convince society, and themselves, of that fact. Warmth, wit and a quick, enjoyable pace with lovely moments of passion make this a winner for many historical romance fans. 4 stars
eARC provided by Avon Books via edelweiss
December 2, 2013
Daniel Neville is a rake and spends most of his time gambling, carousing and spending his money and family heirlooms on his mistress. His uncle gives him a ultimatum, that he has one month to find a wife or he will cut him off completely financially. So he attends a masquerade ball, looking for a woman who he can marry. Then he sees a woman that captures his attention, a woman with black hair, tan skins, and a scarlet red dress that makes his blood boil. After finding her alone in a corner, he finds that she is everything he could have dreamed of for a future wife. She is passionate, sweet and in need of a hero. Rebecca, is under the guardianship of her aunt and uncle who are practically trying to sell her to the highest bidder. But when she meets Daniel, she knows she wants him to be her husband but she is being placed in a situation that keep her from going to him. However Daniel plans on rescuing the damsel in distress that needs to be rescued. But he will have to make a decision that could change his life.
The Scandal in Kissing An Heir is a fun and charming love story set in Regency England. I was able to receive a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. This is the first that I have read Sophia Barnes, and I read this book under a few hours, surprisingly and I enjoyed it quite a bit. This book actually turned out to be much better than I even expected. I found this story to be intriguing and fun and very sensual at times. The descriptions that are placed into the story were vividly real and I enjoyed seeing the style of the way this author creates a story. This book starts out with this couple first meeting at a ball, and they have a instant connection. Even though there is a bit of a rival for Rebecca that Daniel is faced with, it soon becomes clear that Rebecca only wants Daniel. Then he learns about who she truly is and then Daniel and Rebecca are thrown together in a scandal, and soon they will have to learn to trust in each other.
I couldn't help but enjoy this entertaining ride this story has taken me on. I found the writing to be unique and with a sense of freshness to it. There was so much going for this book that I enjoyed. From the first page, I was completely drawn in, and even though it didn't rate a high 5 rating, I found it to be a enjoyable story that you can relax into. It had many elements that made it a brilliantly well written love story that makes you root for this couple from the beginning. Overall I couldn't help but love The Scandal In Kissing An Heir and with a sweet mixture of romance, sensual setting, and characters to make you feel alive.....this story will charm and delight you till the very last page. REMARKABLE!!! I can't wait to try more of this author, definitely going to be bumped up my list!!
The Scandal in Kissing An Heir is a fun and charming love story set in Regency England. I was able to receive a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. This is the first that I have read Sophia Barnes, and I read this book under a few hours, surprisingly and I enjoyed it quite a bit. This book actually turned out to be much better than I even expected. I found this story to be intriguing and fun and very sensual at times. The descriptions that are placed into the story were vividly real and I enjoyed seeing the style of the way this author creates a story. This book starts out with this couple first meeting at a ball, and they have a instant connection. Even though there is a bit of a rival for Rebecca that Daniel is faced with, it soon becomes clear that Rebecca only wants Daniel. Then he learns about who she truly is and then Daniel and Rebecca are thrown together in a scandal, and soon they will have to learn to trust in each other.
I couldn't help but enjoy this entertaining ride this story has taken me on. I found the writing to be unique and with a sense of freshness to it. There was so much going for this book that I enjoyed. From the first page, I was completely drawn in, and even though it didn't rate a high 5 rating, I found it to be a enjoyable story that you can relax into. It had many elements that made it a brilliantly well written love story that makes you root for this couple from the beginning. Overall I couldn't help but love The Scandal In Kissing An Heir and with a sweet mixture of romance, sensual setting, and characters to make you feel alive.....this story will charm and delight you till the very last page. REMARKABLE!!! I can't wait to try more of this author, definitely going to be bumped up my list!!
Read
July 2, 2018meh - maybe I'll go back to it...
February 2, 2014
Okay, so, this book... I don't even know what to say...
I read the first book in the series (The Trouble with Being a Duke), and decided I really liked the idea of Rebecca. Because really, you don't see much of her in that book but there are things said about her and I thought she sounded interesting, which is the only reason I decided to read this book. (Honestly, the description of Daniel in that book was not very flattering and did not do his good looks justice.)
The Scandal in Kissing an Heir did not disappoint me. I love Rebecca even more than I did when I just had a vague image of what she was like. She was funny and she was a good schemer and she was different from other romance heroines in a subtle way that I can't really place. And she's biracial. Spanish and English from what I gather. I have not seen a single biracial heroine in a Regency historical (for what I feel are obvious reasons) and as a biracial woman, I was pleasantly surprised. Granted, her struggles with being a mix of races was purely based on physical insecurity, but I'll take what I can get.
Rebecca was also a fantastic name for her, by the way. It all fit together nicely.
As far as Daniel goes, he was a conundrum. I really felt for him regarding his mother's abandonment and his father's death shortly after. I completely understood his reasons for acting out, and as far as reasons for rakes becoming rakes go... well... actually, this may have been the only time in my years of reading romance that I have been given a reason for the rake being a rake. He was such a sweety too. Like, Daniel, you are pure sugar; I wanna carry you around in my pocket.
I think the character development in this story is the star of the whole book. The characters were different and well done. And Rebecca and Daniel together was interesting because they actually didn't end up having a huge problem, as is the main conflict device seen in most romance novels. I mean, yes, Rebecca had some trust issues, but she and Daniel got on really well.
The plot of this was also really interesting. I wasn't sure where it was going to go when I started reading, which doesn't happen often, and I was a little surprised with where Barnes ended up taking it. (Jilted fiancé, anyone?)
I do wish that I could have found out who shot Rebecca. I've been waiting for that big reveal for so long and it's still not happening. I imagine, that it'll happen in the last book of the series, whenever that is.
But this book was really good. Definitely worth a read.
I read the first book in the series (The Trouble with Being a Duke), and decided I really liked the idea of Rebecca. Because really, you don't see much of her in that book but there are things said about her and I thought she sounded interesting, which is the only reason I decided to read this book. (Honestly, the description of Daniel in that book was not very flattering and did not do his good looks justice.)
The Scandal in Kissing an Heir did not disappoint me. I love Rebecca even more than I did when I just had a vague image of what she was like. She was funny and she was a good schemer and she was different from other romance heroines in a subtle way that I can't really place. And she's biracial. Spanish and English from what I gather. I have not seen a single biracial heroine in a Regency historical (for what I feel are obvious reasons) and as a biracial woman, I was pleasantly surprised. Granted, her struggles with being a mix of races was purely based on physical insecurity, but I'll take what I can get.
Rebecca was also a fantastic name for her, by the way. It all fit together nicely.
As far as Daniel goes, he was a conundrum. I really felt for him regarding his mother's abandonment and his father's death shortly after. I completely understood his reasons for acting out, and as far as reasons for rakes becoming rakes go... well... actually, this may have been the only time in my years of reading romance that I have been given a reason for the rake being a rake. He was such a sweety too. Like, Daniel, you are pure sugar; I wanna carry you around in my pocket.
I think the character development in this story is the star of the whole book. The characters were different and well done. And Rebecca and Daniel together was interesting because they actually didn't end up having a huge problem, as is the main conflict device seen in most romance novels. I mean, yes, Rebecca had some trust issues, but she and Daniel got on really well.
The plot of this was also really interesting. I wasn't sure where it was going to go when I started reading, which doesn't happen often, and I was a little surprised with where Barnes ended up taking it. (Jilted fiancé, anyone?)
I do wish that I could have found out who shot Rebecca. I've been waiting for that big reveal for so long and it's still not happening. I imagine, that it'll happen in the last book of the series, whenever that is.
But this book was really good. Definitely worth a read.
December 24, 2013
Originally published at Rookie Romance.
After reading the first book in this series, The Trouble With Being a Duke, I was very eager to read The Scandal in Kissing an Heir. The rather unique way in which Daniel and Rebecca meet, promised to deliver a story filled with intrigue and scandal, and it definitely delivered.
Daniel is the sort of hero I really enjoy reading about in a lighter sort of romance. He's got the outward appearance of a carefree rake, but lurking beneath he has pain buried from his childhood. He's very sweet towards Rebecca, and not nearly as bad as his reputation makes him out to be.
I really enjoyed Rebecca's character, she was very refreshing. She maintains an optimistic and remarkably cheerful outlook, despite the awful treatment by her aunt and uncle. Namely, their desire to marry her off to the highest bidder- who happens to be a disturbingly lecherous Duke, 50 years her senior.
Daniel and Rebecca meet at the Kingsborough ball and are instantly drawn to each other. It helps that they're both rather desperately seeking to marry, his Uncle has given him an ultimatum to wed or be cut off, and she wishes to marry a man of her choosing. After that meeting, Daniel pursues Rebecca despite the obstacles between them, and you'll find yourself cheering for them every step of the way.
I loved the relationship between Daniel and Rebecca, it's very honest and open, which is definitely a breath of fresh air. They also have a fiery sexual chemistry, which makes for some very steamy love scenes together!
You'll be rooting for the hero and heroine as they surmount every obstacle thrown in their way. It's very easy to be drawn into the story, and lose yourself in this engaging and sweet romance. I'm already looking forward to the next in the series.
*I received a review copy from the publisher, for my honest review. Thank you!
After reading the first book in this series, The Trouble With Being a Duke, I was very eager to read The Scandal in Kissing an Heir. The rather unique way in which Daniel and Rebecca meet, promised to deliver a story filled with intrigue and scandal, and it definitely delivered.
Daniel is the sort of hero I really enjoy reading about in a lighter sort of romance. He's got the outward appearance of a carefree rake, but lurking beneath he has pain buried from his childhood. He's very sweet towards Rebecca, and not nearly as bad as his reputation makes him out to be.
I really enjoyed Rebecca's character, she was very refreshing. She maintains an optimistic and remarkably cheerful outlook, despite the awful treatment by her aunt and uncle. Namely, their desire to marry her off to the highest bidder- who happens to be a disturbingly lecherous Duke, 50 years her senior.
Daniel and Rebecca meet at the Kingsborough ball and are instantly drawn to each other. It helps that they're both rather desperately seeking to marry, his Uncle has given him an ultimatum to wed or be cut off, and she wishes to marry a man of her choosing. After that meeting, Daniel pursues Rebecca despite the obstacles between them, and you'll find yourself cheering for them every step of the way.
I loved the relationship between Daniel and Rebecca, it's very honest and open, which is definitely a breath of fresh air. They also have a fiery sexual chemistry, which makes for some very steamy love scenes together!
You'll be rooting for the hero and heroine as they surmount every obstacle thrown in their way. It's very easy to be drawn into the story, and lose yourself in this engaging and sweet romance. I'm already looking forward to the next in the series.
*I received a review copy from the publisher, for my honest review. Thank you!
February 1, 2014
I gave this a B- at AAR so 3.5 stars Often when I read historical romance, I'm looking for something with a strong sense of place and time, and at least a little bit of realism. However, every now and again, some fun wallpapery fluff hits the spot as well. And if you're in the mood for a fluffier historical, The Scandal in Kissing an Heir is a fun read.
So, why is kissing an heir scandalous? Well, the heir in question is Daniel Neville, heir to the Marquess of Wolvington. Mr. Neville has frittered away his time with gambling, causing scandals and generally proving an embarrassment to his uncle, the Marquess. The Marquess warns Daniel to knock off the frat boy antics (in Regency-ish speak, of course) and to settle down with a nice, respectable lady. Soon after, Daniel finds himself at the Duke of Kingsborough's ball.
At the ball, most respectable folk avoid Daniel but he does find himself intrigued by a mysterious young lady in a moderately scandalous scarlet dress. And so he meets Lady Rebecca. We learn pretty quickly that Lady Rebecca has been declared mad by her aunt and uncle and that she has spent the past two years imprisoned in their home. The reasons for all of this aren't quite clear, but at this point, the story flows along well enough that I suspect many readers will be willing to just roll with it.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: http://likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/bookRev...
So, why is kissing an heir scandalous? Well, the heir in question is Daniel Neville, heir to the Marquess of Wolvington. Mr. Neville has frittered away his time with gambling, causing scandals and generally proving an embarrassment to his uncle, the Marquess. The Marquess warns Daniel to knock off the frat boy antics (in Regency-ish speak, of course) and to settle down with a nice, respectable lady. Soon after, Daniel finds himself at the Duke of Kingsborough's ball.
At the ball, most respectable folk avoid Daniel but he does find himself intrigued by a mysterious young lady in a moderately scandalous scarlet dress. And so he meets Lady Rebecca. We learn pretty quickly that Lady Rebecca has been declared mad by her aunt and uncle and that she has spent the past two years imprisoned in their home. The reasons for all of this aren't quite clear, but at this point, the story flows along well enough that I suspect many readers will be willing to just roll with it.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: http://likesbooks.com/cgi-bin/bookRev...
January 3, 2014
THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR by Sophie Barnes is an delightful Historical Romance set in 1817 England. #2 in "At the Kingsborough Ball, but can be read as a stand alone. This story seems to me to be based a bit on the story of Rapunzel for Lady Rebecca is determined to find her own husband on her own terms,therefore, she has been pretending to be "mad" so her aunt and uncle wouldn't force her into marriage. Enter, Daniel Neville, notorious rake and heir to the Marquis of Wolvington. Just one kiss as the story goes.....things get a little interesting, you see Rebecca sneaks out of the house with the help of her maid, to attend the famous Kingsborough Ball, and so it happens Daniel is there. A scandal is involved, he must get her to see reason and marry him even with his tainted past. Passion and love is a powerful thing. Beauty and wits, meets notorious rake with a past, one forbidden kiss and WOW a scandal erupts. A sensual, fun, quick read with wit and engaging characters makes "The Scandal In Kissing An Heir" an enjoyable read. Received for an honest review from the publisher and Above the Treeline.
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING: 4
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
April 4, 2014
The second book in Sophie Barnes' elegant series, At the Kingsborough Ball, which take place at the same time, with connected characters who attend the same masquerade ball. It’s a clever concept that I have seen done successfully before in Juliana Gray’s Affairs by Moonlight trilogy and also her new Princess in Hiding series. I read the first book, The Trouble With Being a Duke last year and enjoyed it very much.
It’s always interesting to read about the depiction of etiquette and decorum in historical romance. Appearances are everything and anything that strays from that is considered scandalous. So when Daniel Neville, notable rake, first sees Lady Rebecca in a glorious red dress—when unmarried young women usually wore pale colors, preferably white—he assumes she’s no innocent. Likewise, Daniel’s reputation precedes him based mostly on gossip, giving Rebecca her own opinions and first impressions.
For my full review on my historical romance and history blog: http://bit.ly/1hIj4MN
It’s always interesting to read about the depiction of etiquette and decorum in historical romance. Appearances are everything and anything that strays from that is considered scandalous. So when Daniel Neville, notable rake, first sees Lady Rebecca in a glorious red dress—when unmarried young women usually wore pale colors, preferably white—he assumes she’s no innocent. Likewise, Daniel’s reputation precedes him based mostly on gossip, giving Rebecca her own opinions and first impressions.
For my full review on my historical romance and history blog: http://bit.ly/1hIj4MN
January 24, 2016
The heir is Daniel and his heroine is Lady Rebecca who is being sold to the highest bidder by her aunt and uncle when Daniel saves her from a marriage with a old Duke obsessed with possessing her.
No matter how many times the author forced abandonment tropes on the characters they continued to be too cheerful and perky, especially the heroine and this really bothered me. The dialogue was also very modern and jarred me out of the time period very often. All in all, the storyline was fairly interesting but the dialogue and writing was not up to par in telling what could have been a beautifully written story.
No matter how many times the author forced abandonment tropes on the characters they continued to be too cheerful and perky, especially the heroine and this really bothered me. The dialogue was also very modern and jarred me out of the time period very often. All in all, the storyline was fairly interesting but the dialogue and writing was not up to par in telling what could have been a beautifully written story.
October 9, 2013
I liked the relationship between the two characters, from the moment they met they formed a bond that was really strong. Their attraction was believable and I loved how they made their marriage work. Rebecca and Daniel had plenty of ups and downs early on in their marriage and I liked how they dealt with it together. There was a scene in which Rebecca caught him sneaking around yet once she asked for honesty Daniel really gave it to her. He also was honest from that moment on about whatever was going on. It was really normal and that was the best part :)
February 1, 2023
I like Sophie Barnes as an author and this the second in the "At the Kingsborough Ball" series was just okay. It was way too much of a slow build and for the heroine to come to the realization to entertain the proposal of the hero. Almost DNF but finished as some parts were okay. Here's to the next in the series.
June 27, 2022
really and truly terrible.
February 4, 2014
3 to 3.5 stars>
He shook his head with disbelief. What a remarkable woman. It wasn't the first time he allowed himself to analyze his feelings for her, and he was stunned to discover that what he felt didn't terrify him nearly as much as the thought of never being able to tell her did.
He loved her.
Such a simple and uncomplicated thing, really. He shook his head in amazement and wondered how long he'd loved her. The answer surprised him more than the acknowledgment itself. It had happened quite suddenly really on their way to Scotland, when they'd sung that silly song together.
I really liked the idea that the hero and heroine met at a masquerade ball. Although the story turned out to be the opposite of what I thought it would be, it was still a nice read.
Lady Rebecca wants to find her a husband on her own but her aunt and uncle have different plans. They want to basically sell her to the highest bidder. Determined to choose a husband in order to escape her aunt and uncles grasp, she sneaks into the Kingsborough Ball where she captures the hero's (Daniel) interest.
Daniel Neville is a well known rake and is the heir to the Marquess of Wolvington. So when his rakish ways get him into trouble with his aunt and uncle and they tell him he is to marry within a month or be cut off. Not only marry but to cease his gaming, stop associating with loose women, engaging in haphazard carriage races or anything that would continue to embarrass the family name. So when he sees a beautiful woman across the ballroom dressed in red, he is determined to claim her. Everything goes fine until she is shot later on.
Did I mention he is determined to marry her? Yeah, he visits her the following day in hopes of asking her uncle for her hand in marriage but is quickly told that he must have a certain amount of money to basically buy her hand. A few days later when he returns with said money, Rebecca's uncle has decided she is to marry a duke (named Grover) instead.
The couple decide to elope at Gretna Green before Rebecca is to marry the duke. And so, right smack in the middle of her and Grover's engagement ball, Daniel and Rebecca flee to Scotland and marry. This causes a huge scandal. The unthinkable happens... Daniel's uncle cuts him off because of how much of a scandal it was.
He and Rebecca are determined to make it without anyone's help. Through this process, they fall in love.
Lots of twists and turns in this romance. Like I said before, the story wasn't quite what I envisioned it would be but it was still a nice romance. I give it 3 to 3.5 stars.
"I love you," she said, and then she blinked, realizing that he'd spoken at the exact same time as her, his words mirroring her own. "Did you just say... I mean, it sounded like you--"
"I love you, Becky," he repeated, and reaching for her hand, he clasped it with his own before bringing it to his lips for a kiss.>
He shook his head with disbelief. What a remarkable woman. It wasn't the first time he allowed himself to analyze his feelings for her, and he was stunned to discover that what he felt didn't terrify him nearly as much as the thought of never being able to tell her did.
He loved her.
Such a simple and uncomplicated thing, really. He shook his head in amazement and wondered how long he'd loved her. The answer surprised him more than the acknowledgment itself. It had happened quite suddenly really on their way to Scotland, when they'd sung that silly song together.
I really liked the idea that the hero and heroine met at a masquerade ball. Although the story turned out to be the opposite of what I thought it would be, it was still a nice read.
Lady Rebecca wants to find her a husband on her own but her aunt and uncle have different plans. They want to basically sell her to the highest bidder. Determined to choose a husband in order to escape her aunt and uncles grasp, she sneaks into the Kingsborough Ball where she captures the hero's (Daniel) interest.
Daniel Neville is a well known rake and is the heir to the Marquess of Wolvington. So when his rakish ways get him into trouble with his aunt and uncle and they tell him he is to marry within a month or be cut off. Not only marry but to cease his gaming, stop associating with loose women, engaging in haphazard carriage races or anything that would continue to embarrass the family name. So when he sees a beautiful woman across the ballroom dressed in red, he is determined to claim her. Everything goes fine until she is shot later on.
Did I mention he is determined to marry her? Yeah, he visits her the following day in hopes of asking her uncle for her hand in marriage but is quickly told that he must have a certain amount of money to basically buy her hand. A few days later when he returns with said money, Rebecca's uncle has decided she is to marry a duke (named Grover) instead.
The couple decide to elope at Gretna Green before Rebecca is to marry the duke. And so, right smack in the middle of her and Grover's engagement ball, Daniel and Rebecca flee to Scotland and marry. This causes a huge scandal. The unthinkable happens... Daniel's uncle cuts him off because of how much of a scandal it was.
He and Rebecca are determined to make it without anyone's help. Through this process, they fall in love.
Lots of twists and turns in this romance. Like I said before, the story wasn't quite what I envisioned it would be but it was still a nice romance. I give it 3 to 3.5 stars.
"I love you," she said, and then she blinked, realizing that he'd spoken at the exact same time as her, his words mirroring her own. "Did you just say... I mean, it sounded like you--"
"I love you, Becky," he repeated, and reaching for her hand, he clasped it with his own before bringing it to his lips for a kiss.>
September 6, 2018
I liked this better than the first, but the 3rd one better solve the mystery. Neville has been told he must marry, but his scandalous rakish ways have him a reputation that no one would let their daughters near him. At the Kingsborough ball he spies a beautiful woman in red. As he dances with her, she is shot (a scene from the first book) . The ramifications bring them together and mad Revecca has met her match. However her Aunt and Uncle have plans for her, though I really did not understand their animosity towards Rebecca and why they were offering her to an aging Duke. Of course we find out why Neville has been acting the way he has, and eventually realizes he is in love. There is a small mystery that is solved in an interesting way, and characters who seem like we should know them, possibly from previous books. I think I will check out the books before this series. Now on to #3
January 22, 2014
A modern day fairy tale reminiscent of Rapunzel! Actually rated 4.5! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
When he was a young child, Daniel Neville’s mother left him and his father for her lover. Afterwards, Daniel’s father went off to war and died. Left alone in the world, he starts acting up scandalously. Tired of his nephew’s behavior, Daniel’s uncle, the Marquisate of Wolvington, has given him an ultimatum. Daniel, the heir to the marquisate, has thirty days to become engaged and a year to marry or his pension will be cut off. However, most of society, knowing of his scandalous behavior and his outrageous parties, will not even let him near their daughters. But at the Knightsborough Ball, he makes the acquaintance of a beautiful woman in a scarlet dress.
After the death of her parents, Lady Rebecca was raised by her aunt and uncle, who are trying to force her to marry one of the old suitors they have found for her. She is being told to make a choice and the time is growing short. Unbeknownst to Rebecca, her devious aunt and uncle are actually trying to auction her off to the highest bidder. However, she wants to find a younger husband on her own terms, but this is proving difficult since she spent two years confined to the tower, faking madness to keep from being forced to marry. Donning a mask, she sneaks out to the Knightsborough Masquerade Ball, where she meets a few potential suitors, including Mr. Neville. Although she is very attracted to him, she hears about his rakish behavior and does not believe he will suit her purposes.
But Daniel is intrigued by Rebecca and sets his sights on her. Although he believes she is his one chance to meet his uncle’s demands, she also makes him feels things that no one else has. Meanwhile, believing that Daniel will never settle down and be faithful, Rebecca is contemplating a couple other candidates to fulfill her need. Still, Daniel is determined to win Rebecca, but can he overcome her objections? Can he prove to her that he will be the faithful husband she longs for?
A fun-filled fairy tale, THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR, the second book in author Sophie Barnes’ AT THE KINGSBOROUGH BALL series, is a witty, sexy historical romance that will keep you glued to the pages. The attraction between Daniel and Rebecca is strong, but she does not want to end up married to an unfaithful rake. But even though he gives this appearance to the ton, he is suffering from the pain caused by his parents’ actions and beguiled by Rebecca’s open nature and adventurous spirit. As impulsive actions and desire soon lead to more scandal than they already face, will they be able to weather the storm?
Humor, scandal, blackmail, unscrupulous relatives, betrayal, deceit, healing, romance and love all play a part in this interesting story that emulates the well-known fairytale Rapunzel. Readers who enjoy this story may also be delighted by the first story of this series, THE TROUBLE WITH BEING A DUKE, which is loosely based on the story of Cinderella. I look forward to the third installment of this series, THE DANGERS IN ATTEMPTING AN EARL, due out at the end of July 2014. If you are looking for an intriguing tale with plenty of humor and heat within a historical setting, you are sure to enjoy THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
When he was a young child, Daniel Neville’s mother left him and his father for her lover. Afterwards, Daniel’s father went off to war and died. Left alone in the world, he starts acting up scandalously. Tired of his nephew’s behavior, Daniel’s uncle, the Marquisate of Wolvington, has given him an ultimatum. Daniel, the heir to the marquisate, has thirty days to become engaged and a year to marry or his pension will be cut off. However, most of society, knowing of his scandalous behavior and his outrageous parties, will not even let him near their daughters. But at the Knightsborough Ball, he makes the acquaintance of a beautiful woman in a scarlet dress.
After the death of her parents, Lady Rebecca was raised by her aunt and uncle, who are trying to force her to marry one of the old suitors they have found for her. She is being told to make a choice and the time is growing short. Unbeknownst to Rebecca, her devious aunt and uncle are actually trying to auction her off to the highest bidder. However, she wants to find a younger husband on her own terms, but this is proving difficult since she spent two years confined to the tower, faking madness to keep from being forced to marry. Donning a mask, she sneaks out to the Knightsborough Masquerade Ball, where she meets a few potential suitors, including Mr. Neville. Although she is very attracted to him, she hears about his rakish behavior and does not believe he will suit her purposes.
But Daniel is intrigued by Rebecca and sets his sights on her. Although he believes she is his one chance to meet his uncle’s demands, she also makes him feels things that no one else has. Meanwhile, believing that Daniel will never settle down and be faithful, Rebecca is contemplating a couple other candidates to fulfill her need. Still, Daniel is determined to win Rebecca, but can he overcome her objections? Can he prove to her that he will be the faithful husband she longs for?
A fun-filled fairy tale, THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR, the second book in author Sophie Barnes’ AT THE KINGSBOROUGH BALL series, is a witty, sexy historical romance that will keep you glued to the pages. The attraction between Daniel and Rebecca is strong, but she does not want to end up married to an unfaithful rake. But even though he gives this appearance to the ton, he is suffering from the pain caused by his parents’ actions and beguiled by Rebecca’s open nature and adventurous spirit. As impulsive actions and desire soon lead to more scandal than they already face, will they be able to weather the storm?
Humor, scandal, blackmail, unscrupulous relatives, betrayal, deceit, healing, romance and love all play a part in this interesting story that emulates the well-known fairytale Rapunzel. Readers who enjoy this story may also be delighted by the first story of this series, THE TROUBLE WITH BEING A DUKE, which is loosely based on the story of Cinderella. I look forward to the third installment of this series, THE DANGERS IN ATTEMPTING AN EARL, due out at the end of July 2014. If you are looking for an intriguing tale with plenty of humor and heat within a historical setting, you are sure to enjoy THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
December 16, 2013
Daniel Neville is an heir to the Marquisate of Wolvington and a rake. After years of bad behavior his uncle and current Marquis has decided that he either turns over a new leaf and marries within a month or he will be cut off entirely. With no way to support himself he decides to look for a wife but that proves difficult since most respectable young ladies avoid his company and bad reputation. At a masquerade given by the Duke of Kingsborough he meets a woman that doesn’t avoid him and is a delight to talk to. Lady Rebecca has spent the last two years pretending to be mad to avoid marriage but her aunt and uncle have decided to marry her off anyway. When she realizes that she will have no say in her future, she takes matters into her own hands and sneaks into the masquerade where she meets a charming man, Mr. Neville.
I did enjoy Daniel and Rebecca as a couple. They suited each other very well. They have a similar sense of humor and their personalities compliment each other. There is quite a bit of mistrust between them for a while but it felt realistic within the story. That begin said it is never drug out too long. I loved that these characters talked to each other and didn’t assume the other could read their mind. When they have issues, they discuss them. It was such a refreshing change that the whole book wasn’t centered around one misunderstanding. There was an actual plot that moved and twists that made this a very enjoyable read.
There are many twists and turns in the plot. I was sure that I knew how the story would go but then it would veer off into another direction. I made the story interesting and unpredictable which was very refreshing. There was one big, to me, plot element that was left hanging and that was how shot at Rebecca. We learn a little bit about it further along in the story but we don’t get any details about it after that. Where they shooting at her? Why? Who were they aiming at? ect. This is the second book in the At the Kingsborough Ball so these questions may be carried in the next book or even addressed in the first book but I would have liked some resolution in this book.
I will say that will all the emphasis on Daniel being a rake we don’t get too much rakish behavior from him. Rebecca even remarks on it at one point. I appreciated how his character evolved and he stopped putting on the show but I did think they he would have more rakish tendencies with Rebecca after they were married. I expected lots of hot and heavy sex and while we get some nice scenes, there weren’t that many or as spicy as I expected.
This is my first book by Barnes and it will not be my last. I am very excited to go back and read the first book in this series and then continue with the third when it comes out. I will definitely be looking for more from Barnes in the future.
I did enjoy Daniel and Rebecca as a couple. They suited each other very well. They have a similar sense of humor and their personalities compliment each other. There is quite a bit of mistrust between them for a while but it felt realistic within the story. That begin said it is never drug out too long. I loved that these characters talked to each other and didn’t assume the other could read their mind. When they have issues, they discuss them. It was such a refreshing change that the whole book wasn’t centered around one misunderstanding. There was an actual plot that moved and twists that made this a very enjoyable read.
There are many twists and turns in the plot. I was sure that I knew how the story would go but then it would veer off into another direction. I made the story interesting and unpredictable which was very refreshing. There was one big, to me, plot element that was left hanging and that was how shot at Rebecca. We learn a little bit about it further along in the story but we don’t get any details about it after that. Where they shooting at her? Why? Who were they aiming at? ect. This is the second book in the At the Kingsborough Ball so these questions may be carried in the next book or even addressed in the first book but I would have liked some resolution in this book.
I will say that will all the emphasis on Daniel being a rake we don’t get too much rakish behavior from him. Rebecca even remarks on it at one point. I appreciated how his character evolved and he stopped putting on the show but I did think they he would have more rakish tendencies with Rebecca after they were married. I expected lots of hot and heavy sex and while we get some nice scenes, there weren’t that many or as spicy as I expected.
This is my first book by Barnes and it will not be my last. I am very excited to go back and read the first book in this series and then continue with the third when it comes out. I will definitely be looking for more from Barnes in the future.
December 24, 2013
Daniel Neville is only a Mr. but also heir to the Marquess of Wolvington. When he is warned by the Marquess to stop his roguish ways and settle down, Daniel finds it to be quite difficult as his past escapades have made him persona non grata in most social circles! By chance Daniel found himself at the Kingsborough Ball because of his connection to the Marquess, and lo and behold he spotted a lovely young woman, who obviously didn’t know him and actually spoke to him.
Later Daniel would discover that Lady Rebecca was the ward of greedy and ambitious relations who were willing to sell her to the highest bidder; a foul and perverted duke who was 50 years her senior and would keep her in another type of prison. When scandal emerged around them, Daniel would have his hands full with trying to convince Rebecca that she could count on him to be faithful and would change his ways.
*** This was both sensual and a fun read. Lady Rebecca had been pretending to be be “mad” for the last few years in an effort to stop her relations from arranging a marriage of Rebecca that would be
advantageous to them - in other words they were planning to sell Rebecca to the highest bidder. The prospective grooms were both old enough to be her great-grandfather’s age. Planning to find a husband on her terms Lady Rebecca with the help of her willing maid were able to sneak her out of her tower and disguised at a masquerade ball in order to search for a good prospect. What Rebecca found was the extremely handsome Daniel Neville whom she found fascinating until it was later revealed, after Lady Rebecca was shot by an unnamed assailant, that he was not considered good ton. In fact he was considered to be a complete and utter rake.
As most regency historicals go, this was par for the course, with the exception that the plot line was quite good, and the author did some great characterizations of the leads coupled with great motivation. In fact I was really quite taken with the ooziness and repulsiveness, of the old Duke who was the top money contender to want to marry Rebecca. One could easily picture in their minds eye just how repulsive he would have been to a young innocent like Rebecca. It was also totally enjoyable to see how Daniel would tackle all the problems he had in both trying to win Rebecca’s trust and later to be able to care for her when he had been totally cut off by his uncle the Marquess.
Bottom line: THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR was a most enjoyable read, both from the perspective of having a wonderful plot line, great characterization, and brisk action that kept the story from dragging. Good job Ms. Barnes - looking forward to more from you and to see what happens next as a result of the Kingsborough Ball.
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
Later Daniel would discover that Lady Rebecca was the ward of greedy and ambitious relations who were willing to sell her to the highest bidder; a foul and perverted duke who was 50 years her senior and would keep her in another type of prison. When scandal emerged around them, Daniel would have his hands full with trying to convince Rebecca that she could count on him to be faithful and would change his ways.
*** This was both sensual and a fun read. Lady Rebecca had been pretending to be be “mad” for the last few years in an effort to stop her relations from arranging a marriage of Rebecca that would be
advantageous to them - in other words they were planning to sell Rebecca to the highest bidder. The prospective grooms were both old enough to be her great-grandfather’s age. Planning to find a husband on her terms Lady Rebecca with the help of her willing maid were able to sneak her out of her tower and disguised at a masquerade ball in order to search for a good prospect. What Rebecca found was the extremely handsome Daniel Neville whom she found fascinating until it was later revealed, after Lady Rebecca was shot by an unnamed assailant, that he was not considered good ton. In fact he was considered to be a complete and utter rake.
As most regency historicals go, this was par for the course, with the exception that the plot line was quite good, and the author did some great characterizations of the leads coupled with great motivation. In fact I was really quite taken with the ooziness and repulsiveness, of the old Duke who was the top money contender to want to marry Rebecca. One could easily picture in their minds eye just how repulsive he would have been to a young innocent like Rebecca. It was also totally enjoyable to see how Daniel would tackle all the problems he had in both trying to win Rebecca’s trust and later to be able to care for her when he had been totally cut off by his uncle the Marquess.
Bottom line: THE SCANDAL IN KISSING AN HEIR was a most enjoyable read, both from the perspective of having a wonderful plot line, great characterization, and brisk action that kept the story from dragging. Good job Ms. Barnes - looking forward to more from you and to see what happens next as a result of the Kingsborough Ball.
Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com
May 24, 2015
Historical romance is my crack. I can be incredibly forgiving when all I want is some fluff to disappear into for a few hours on the weekend. Unfortunately, there were a few things that kept me from truly enjoying The Scandal in Kissing an Heir.
A choppy plot: successful plots have one overarching question that drives the story forward. In romance, you've got the marriage or "I love you"s or the promise of a HEA... and usually one other story problem outside the romance that drives the characters together. Rebecca and Daniel had obstacles throughout the story -- meeting, getting away from her guardians, eloping, more that's spoilerish I won't reveal -- but they're almost presented as self-contained obstacles that don't necessarily drive the plot forward. Every time I thought I'd latched onto the overarching question/problem, it would be solved and I'd be left wondering what was going to happen for the rest of the book. Even the "I love you"s came before the end. So... yeah.
Unresolved plot threads: Rebecca gets shot early in the story (therefore not considering it a spoiler) and... either it never fully got addressed in who did it, or it was so minor I missed it. I kept waiting for some kind of big reveal, especially if the shot was directed at Daniel, not Rebecca, but nada.
Unbelievable situations: Rebecca gets shot in the shoulder, then she's up and fine the next day. There was no fear of fever or anything. I can suspend belief for certain things, but I've had problems with this type of situation before. (Do people really recover from gunshots so quickly in the 1800s? I highly doubt it.) Rebecca isn't the only one who gets shot and recovers quickly, either.
Naming emotions rather than showing: This is something I'm sensitive to now that I'm writing and using The Emotional Thesaurus (a writing book I'd highly recommend), and a lot of the narrative involves telling us how the characters are feeling. Because we don't get to "see" for ourselves what the characters are feeling, it's harder to relate to them. The characters were also very good at communication and being honest and figuring out what the other was experiencing, even if they didn't talk about. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for quality communication between characters. But when it's easy, it lacks tension, and that does little to keep us turning pages.
A choppy plot: successful plots have one overarching question that drives the story forward. In romance, you've got the marriage or "I love you"s or the promise of a HEA... and usually one other story problem outside the romance that drives the characters together. Rebecca and Daniel had obstacles throughout the story -- meeting, getting away from her guardians, eloping, more that's spoilerish I won't reveal -- but they're almost presented as self-contained obstacles that don't necessarily drive the plot forward. Every time I thought I'd latched onto the overarching question/problem, it would be solved and I'd be left wondering what was going to happen for the rest of the book. Even the "I love you"s came before the end. So... yeah.
Unresolved plot threads: Rebecca gets shot early in the story (therefore not considering it a spoiler) and... either it never fully got addressed in who did it, or it was so minor I missed it. I kept waiting for some kind of big reveal, especially if the shot was directed at Daniel, not Rebecca, but nada.
Unbelievable situations: Rebecca gets shot in the shoulder, then she's up and fine the next day. There was no fear of fever or anything. I can suspend belief for certain things, but I've had problems with this type of situation before. (Do people really recover from gunshots so quickly in the 1800s? I highly doubt it.) Rebecca isn't the only one who gets shot and recovers quickly, either.
Naming emotions rather than showing: This is something I'm sensitive to now that I'm writing and using The Emotional Thesaurus (a writing book I'd highly recommend), and a lot of the narrative involves telling us how the characters are feeling. Because we don't get to "see" for ourselves what the characters are feeling, it's harder to relate to them. The characters were also very good at communication and being honest and figuring out what the other was experiencing, even if they didn't talk about. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for quality communication between characters. But when it's easy, it lacks tension, and that does little to keep us turning pages.
January 11, 2014
I was so hoping to love this book, because I've been on a mediocre-book streak for a while now and I just wanted to swoon. And maybe I expected too much from this book, since I did enjoy it, but it didn't have that wow-factor that I was looking for.
Rebecca is a pretty interesting character, she's been pretending to be mad for 2 years in order to escape an arranged marriage by her aunt and uncle. I don't think I could do that, I mean, I think I'd go crazy for real if I had to keep that up. And I'm actually kinda disappointed we didn't actually get to see her pretend to be crazy, because that had the potential to be truly awesome. I get that she wasn't so ready to trust Daniel, but this constant thinking he wouldn't be faithful to her was a bit annoying to be honest. I mean, the guy was really making an effort and she's determined to think he'll go off with other women.
Daniel has a bit of a hero complex. I mean, he's gotten it into his head that he needs to save Rebecca from her aunt and uncle based on one meeting (and her being shot, but that's beside the point) and he's ready to marry her to do so. And I know that he was in need of a wife, but still, tying your life to someone you hardly know always seems a bit not so well thought out to me. But I did think he's a good guy and that he really wants to make something of his life with Rebecca, he just doesn't really know how to do it and messes up in the process a couple of times.
There was a dirty old man, some playing detective themselves, a whole lot of society snubbing and while it was entertaining, I wanted to really FEEL the romance and the drama and it just didn't quite do it for me. Sometimes I wanted to shake some sense into the characters. Sometimes I was just shaking my head. But it was enjoyable enough that I kept reading and I was interested to see how Daniel and Rebecca would get out of the mess they'd partly created themselves, so it was a decent read, but not exceptional.
My rating: 2,5 stars
Rebecca is a pretty interesting character, she's been pretending to be mad for 2 years in order to escape an arranged marriage by her aunt and uncle. I don't think I could do that, I mean, I think I'd go crazy for real if I had to keep that up. And I'm actually kinda disappointed we didn't actually get to see her pretend to be crazy, because that had the potential to be truly awesome. I get that she wasn't so ready to trust Daniel, but this constant thinking he wouldn't be faithful to her was a bit annoying to be honest. I mean, the guy was really making an effort and she's determined to think he'll go off with other women.
Daniel has a bit of a hero complex. I mean, he's gotten it into his head that he needs to save Rebecca from her aunt and uncle based on one meeting (and her being shot, but that's beside the point) and he's ready to marry her to do so. And I know that he was in need of a wife, but still, tying your life to someone you hardly know always seems a bit not so well thought out to me. But I did think he's a good guy and that he really wants to make something of his life with Rebecca, he just doesn't really know how to do it and messes up in the process a couple of times.
There was a dirty old man, some playing detective themselves, a whole lot of society snubbing and while it was entertaining, I wanted to really FEEL the romance and the drama and it just didn't quite do it for me. Sometimes I wanted to shake some sense into the characters. Sometimes I was just shaking my head. But it was enjoyable enough that I kept reading and I was interested to see how Daniel and Rebecca would get out of the mess they'd partly created themselves, so it was a decent read, but not exceptional.
My rating: 2,5 stars
June 25, 2014
Lady Rebecca has been locked in a tower after pretending to be mad for two years to thwart her aunt and uncle’s plans to marry her off to the highest bidder, and the two men in the running are old enough to be her grandfather. She escapes for one night to attend the Kingsborough Ball, hoping that she can find a man to marry of her choosing. When she meets Daniel Neville, the heir of the Marquess of Wolvington, he’s not quite what she had in mind. He’s a rake with the worst reputation, with a different woman on his arm every night as he gambles and drinks his way through life. Daniel has been given an ultimatum by his uncle the Marquess, find a woman to marry and settle down or his allowance will be cut off. He sees Lady Rebecca and decides she’s the one for him, not realizing that in addition to overcoming his reputation, there will be more obstacles to overcome from her greedy family. What follows is a lovely fairy tale of a story with an escape from the castle tower, greedy relatives, a lecherous old duke, a determined young gentleman who wants to rescue his damsel in distress, and a courageous young woman who just wants to make her own choices for her life. I enjoyed that the story, with its nod to Rapunzel, was a fun fairy tale retelling and not to be taken too seriously. The mystery of who shot Lady Rebecca at the Kingsborough Ball, which was depicted in both the first book and this one, has still not been revealed and I’m hoping to find the answer in the next book to come.
October 24, 2014
I liked this story very much.
Rebecca is a spunky young lady. She has been held as a virtual prisoner by an aunt and uncle. The relatives now want to bargain her away to a very elderly and wealthy nobleman. It does not matter who, just so he is wealthy.
Daniel is the heir to a title, and he has lived his life as though responsibility is a four letter word. He is informed by his titled uncle to find a wife and stop being a wastrel or he will be cut off without any money.
Rebecca and Daniel are both entertaining characters who kept my interest. Each of them have a good sense of humor and that has helped them deal with the lives they have had. I enjoyed the conversations and the wit expressed in their scenes with one another. He is heroic, and willing to do whatever it takes to save Rebecca from an unhappy future.
The secondary characters are atmospheric and add texture to the story. Some of them are supporting cast members in the truest sense of the word. Others are disgusting human beings who really create the drama for the story.
The plot is a well developed one. At times things seems to fall into place almost too quickly, but this is a romance and in romance good things should happen.
If you are a romance fan, then Ms Barnes is an author who should be on your TBR list, if she is not already part of your book collection. She is a talented author who brings a great deal to a story and provides an entertainment that draws the reader to a place of enjoyment.
Rebecca is a spunky young lady. She has been held as a virtual prisoner by an aunt and uncle. The relatives now want to bargain her away to a very elderly and wealthy nobleman. It does not matter who, just so he is wealthy.
Daniel is the heir to a title, and he has lived his life as though responsibility is a four letter word. He is informed by his titled uncle to find a wife and stop being a wastrel or he will be cut off without any money.
Rebecca and Daniel are both entertaining characters who kept my interest. Each of them have a good sense of humor and that has helped them deal with the lives they have had. I enjoyed the conversations and the wit expressed in their scenes with one another. He is heroic, and willing to do whatever it takes to save Rebecca from an unhappy future.
The secondary characters are atmospheric and add texture to the story. Some of them are supporting cast members in the truest sense of the word. Others are disgusting human beings who really create the drama for the story.
The plot is a well developed one. At times things seems to fall into place almost too quickly, but this is a romance and in romance good things should happen.
If you are a romance fan, then Ms Barnes is an author who should be on your TBR list, if she is not already part of your book collection. She is a talented author who brings a great deal to a story and provides an entertainment that draws the reader to a place of enjoyment.
July 8, 2014
Sophie Barnes has a winner in my opinion! I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and was entertained throughout. I love all the characters, well except for the three evil ones. Daniel the rake, of course was a rascal, but as most rakes tend to be, they too have feelings of chivalry. Lady Rebecca for me is the true hero in the story, for once you've read nearly to the end I think you'll agree that it was she that rescued Daniel, and not the other way around. Sophie Barnes has written their story so well, what I mean by that is, when I'm reading I'm not stumbling through sentences. Sophie tells a story that makes me laugh, want to cry, want to add my "2 cents worth"! She also provides the hot romance where it is called for. Very Well done Sophie Barnes, The Scandal in Kissing an Heir, a MUST READ. I will enjoy reading this one again, and recommending to all my friends. (Oh, and I love the fairies by the way!)
August 19, 2014
I really enjoyed this 2nd book in the series! Daniel has been living a debauched life & his uncle has cut him off from funds unless he gets married & stops gambling, etc. Rebecca has been pretending to be crazy for 2 years because her evil aunt & uncle want to marry her off to an old duke. When Daniel & Rebecca meet at the ball, they are both desperately looking for someone to marry. Daniel starts climbing a ladder to Rebecca's window to get to know her & the plan is that they will elope. I loved seeing them getting to know each other & learning to love each other, in what was essentially a marriage of convenience, with a couple of attempted murders & some social navigating thrown in.
May 9, 2014
Okay so here's what you need to know about this book: it throws A LOT of information at you all at once and then eventually slows down. I've read enough romance novels to know you kind of just have to go with the flow and embrace fast courtships in stories, but the pacing in general felt off to me from the beginning.
The plot gets a little bit better about halfway through, but there definitely were still points where it was awkward and more telling rather than showing.
Honestly I don't know that I would recommend this book. When I finished a friend asked me how it was and I just said, "ehhhh."
The plot gets a little bit better about halfway through, but there definitely were still points where it was awkward and more telling rather than showing.
Honestly I don't know that I would recommend this book. When I finished a friend asked me how it was and I just said, "ehhhh."
June 5, 2014
This storyline has been done TO DEATH…nothing really surprising about this story. I’m absolutely certain all other customers have read this book before just by a different author with different characters but the same story nonetheless. Honestly this book could have ended at chapter 3…she could have whisked off to Gretna Green with Neville well before Chapter 4 considering what her aunt has planned for her and how awful they treat her. I totally agree with another reviewer about the dialogue seem to basically repeat itself…just rehashing of the same thoughts…very annoying. Oh well…if you’re bored and need SOMETHING to pass the time by on a road trip..then by all means…
January 5, 2014
I must admit I didn't know Sophie Barnes prior reading this book. I can say I'm a fan of historical romance proudly but strangely (?) this author has escaped from my eyes. That said, this was my first novel by her and I can say I'm a fan of hers already. This book is surprisingly refreshing with its usual-but-unusual plot, witty dialogues, and common-yet-distinctive cast of characters. Miss Barnes' easy and flowing style of writing also making this story even more pleasing. A delightful and great opening read for this 2014 year!
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