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The Three Mrs #1
The Unexpected Wife
Although Celeste Montgomery was forced into a marriage a year ago, her husband is more often gone than home and she is living a quiet life. Until investigator Owen Gregory shows up at her home to tell her some outrageous news: Her husband has been murdered…and he was also a bigamist, making her the third of three wives.
Owen Gregory was hired to investigate Celeste’s husband, but he never thought it would lead him here, to this beautiful woman whose life he just shattered. Once he determines she couldn’t be the murderer, he asks her to join him in London, in the hopes she can help him solve the crime.
Now they must navigate two other wives, a broken-hearted brother and a duke who keeps poking his nose in as they work to determine who killed Erasmus Montgomery. Not to mention the intense feelings and passionate desires growing between them. But will secrets long held endanger them in ways they never imagined? And will they find a way to save each other before it’s too late?
Owen Gregory was hired to investigate Celeste’s husband, but he never thought it would lead him here, to this beautiful woman whose life he just shattered. Once he determines she couldn’t be the murderer, he asks her to join him in London, in the hopes she can help him solve the crime.
Now they must navigate two other wives, a broken-hearted brother and a duke who keeps poking his nose in as they work to determine who killed Erasmus Montgomery. Not to mention the intense feelings and passionate desires growing between them. But will secrets long held endanger them in ways they never imagined? And will they find a way to save each other before it’s too late?
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2021
217 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Jess Michaels
126 books1,571 followersJess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.
When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
March 5, 2021
4.25 steamy investigator/widow hook up stars
Unhappily married Celeste Montgomery is in for quite the shock when a handsome investigator named Owen Gregory arrives in her small town to tell her that her oft absent husband, Erasmus ("Ras") Montgomery is not only dead, but he has been murdered. And, even more surprising, she is informed that she is the third wife of the polygamous blighter, meaning the marriage her parents essentially forced upon her is not even legal. When the investigator clears her as she has a solid alibi, he suggests Celeste accompany him to London to help him discover the secrets of the man no one seemed to really know. Though Celeste is nervous about how the handsome Owen makes her feel, she has known for a long time that there is nothing in this small village for her, and perhaps London will bring a new start for her to take control of her life as a "widow."
Owen Gregory was approached by the Duke of Gilmore to investigate his sister's beau after receiving an anonymous letter that Ras Montgomery may already be wed. As soon as he verified these claims to be true, he discovers the subject of his inquiry has been murdered... Now he is tasked by the man's half-brother, the Earl of Livingston, to find out who killed him. When he interviews Celeste, the third "wife" of the man who seems to have more secrets than anyone would have ever guessed, he is struck by not only her beauty, but her kind nature and her intelligence. On somewhat of a whim, he invites Celeste to accompany him back to London to help him get to the bottom of the mystery. Once they arrive, he takes her to the home of her husband's first (and only legitimate) wife Abigail, who is hosting the second wife (who, like Celeste, was not legally wed to Ras) Pippa. Awkward!
Though it might seem unlikely, the three women become friends and vow to find out what happened to the man they all believed they were exclusively wed to. But when Celeste starts to spend more and more time with Owen investigating and seeing the sights of London, can they maintain a professional investigator/widow relationship? Will they give into the attraction they each felt strongly from the start, or will Celeste's ruined reputation mean she has no real future in London or anywhere else? And what will happen when the ladies start to dig into Ras's life and find that all may not be what it seems... and danger is a very real threat?
What I liked:
--- Celeste could have easily lost it when she learned what had happened to the man she thought was her husband, not to mention the knowledge that she was ruined as she was not legally wed to him after all, but she pulled it together and did something about it instead of melting down
--- Owen was a kind and thoughtful beta hero
--- The mystery aspect kept me interested - I finished the book in one sitting
--- We got to know the other 2 wives and the gentlemen that will be pursuing them in the other two books in this trilogy, so I am very interested in reading their stories!
--- STEAMY GOODNESS! (pretty early and relatively often!)
What I didn't like as much:
--- It felt like it dragged a little around the 1/3 point of the book, but then picked back up
--- The chemistry between the 2 characters was not as palpable as I usually like to feel for me to be completely engaged in their relationship
--- There were some plot holes, but they might be resolved in later installments of this trilogy
Overall, another steamy start to a promising trilogy by one of my favorite authors! I am really looking forward to book 3 (the set up is promising some serious sparks!), and book 2 sounds like it will be interesting as well as it features wife #2 and the brother of the deceased philanderer!
Plot --- 4.25/5
Main Characters --- 4.25/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.25/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Unhappily married Celeste Montgomery is in for quite the shock when a handsome investigator named Owen Gregory arrives in her small town to tell her that her oft absent husband, Erasmus ("Ras") Montgomery is not only dead, but he has been murdered. And, even more surprising, she is informed that she is the third wife of the polygamous blighter, meaning the marriage her parents essentially forced upon her is not even legal. When the investigator clears her as she has a solid alibi, he suggests Celeste accompany him to London to help him discover the secrets of the man no one seemed to really know. Though Celeste is nervous about how the handsome Owen makes her feel, she has known for a long time that there is nothing in this small village for her, and perhaps London will bring a new start for her to take control of her life as a "widow."
Owen Gregory was approached by the Duke of Gilmore to investigate his sister's beau after receiving an anonymous letter that Ras Montgomery may already be wed. As soon as he verified these claims to be true, he discovers the subject of his inquiry has been murdered... Now he is tasked by the man's half-brother, the Earl of Livingston, to find out who killed him. When he interviews Celeste, the third "wife" of the man who seems to have more secrets than anyone would have ever guessed, he is struck by not only her beauty, but her kind nature and her intelligence. On somewhat of a whim, he invites Celeste to accompany him back to London to help him get to the bottom of the mystery. Once they arrive, he takes her to the home of her husband's first (and only legitimate) wife Abigail, who is hosting the second wife (who, like Celeste, was not legally wed to Ras) Pippa. Awkward!
Though it might seem unlikely, the three women become friends and vow to find out what happened to the man they all believed they were exclusively wed to. But when Celeste starts to spend more and more time with Owen investigating and seeing the sights of London, can they maintain a professional investigator/widow relationship? Will they give into the attraction they each felt strongly from the start, or will Celeste's ruined reputation mean she has no real future in London or anywhere else? And what will happen when the ladies start to dig into Ras's life and find that all may not be what it seems... and danger is a very real threat?
What I liked:
--- Celeste could have easily lost it when she learned what had happened to the man she thought was her husband, not to mention the knowledge that she was ruined as she was not legally wed to him after all, but she pulled it together and did something about it instead of melting down
--- Owen was a kind and thoughtful beta hero
--- The mystery aspect kept me interested - I finished the book in one sitting
--- We got to know the other 2 wives and the gentlemen that will be pursuing them in the other two books in this trilogy, so I am very interested in reading their stories!
--- STEAMY GOODNESS! (pretty early and relatively often!)
What I didn't like as much:
--- It felt like it dragged a little around the 1/3 point of the book, but then picked back up
--- The chemistry between the 2 characters was not as palpable as I usually like to feel for me to be completely engaged in their relationship
--- There were some plot holes, but they might be resolved in later installments of this trilogy
Overall, another steamy start to a promising trilogy by one of my favorite authors! I am really looking forward to book 3 (the set up is promising some serious sparks!), and book 2 sounds like it will be interesting as well as it features wife #2 and the brother of the deceased philanderer!
Plot --- 4.25/5
Main Characters --- 4.25/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.25/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
May 4, 2022
So, last week I read this other book that I see a lot of people reading by Janna MacGregor, and I got a recommendation that this book has the same trope. And I was instantly curious because the plot is very interesting, one man that marries three women and they just discover it when he dies. Pretty interesting, isn't it?
I liked this book more than the other one, even though Janna MacGregor has a more complex and beautiful writing style. This is my second book by Jess Michaels and her writing is simple and to the point with short books (around 250 pages).
I thought the MCs fell in love way too quickly, but I often pretend that I believe in insta love and just go with the flow. Otherwise I would dislike most books, right?
As the wives' husband was murdered, there's an investigation going on, and the investigator is our sweet hero. He truly is a cinnamon roll. The heroine has a much stronger personality and I liked them both. There was only one episode nearing the end that wanted to beat some sense in the heroine because in my opinion she was acting out of proportion to a situation where the hero didn't share all his thoughts with her.
Overall this book was interesting, specially the end of the investigation, but there was way to much emotion everywhere you looked.
3.5 stars? I don't know how to rate this one.
I liked this book more than the other one, even though Janna MacGregor has a more complex and beautiful writing style. This is my second book by Jess Michaels and her writing is simple and to the point with short books (around 250 pages).
I thought the MCs fell in love way too quickly, but I often pretend that I believe in insta love and just go with the flow. Otherwise I would dislike most books, right?
As the wives' husband was murdered, there's an investigation going on, and the investigator is our sweet hero. He truly is a cinnamon roll. The heroine has a much stronger personality and I liked them both. There was only one episode nearing the end that wanted to beat some sense in the heroine because in my opinion she was acting out of proportion to a situation where the hero didn't share all his thoughts with her.
Overall this book was interesting, specially the end of the investigation, but there was way to much emotion everywhere you looked.
3.5 stars? I don't know how to rate this one.
May 30, 2021
4/5 solid stars.
I was intrigued by the set-up of the entire series and couldn't wait to get to them. I have to say with the first installation, I'm not dissapointed. Serious points for adult, intelligent MC's and women sticking by women. What a shocking thing to see in romances!
The overall plot of the series is very new, to me at least. Three women - Abigail, Phillipa and Celeste are all Mrs Montgomery, and yes the same Mrs Montgomery. Hello Bigamy, thy name is Erasmus Montgomery. Who's also a grade A assh*ole. And now dead. But more on that later.
This book is the unravelling of the murder of the woman's husbands and the coming together of the entire set of characters from the series. The unexpected wife explores the romance of the third wife (well not really wife, you know what I mean) Celeste and the private Investigator Owen Gregory, hired to investigate Erasmus on behalf of a powerful Duke. The story evolves around Celeste and Owen finding friendship, passion and eventually love.
I loved Celeste, she's bloody fantastic. She didn't fall into hysterics upon hearing that her husband was a bigamist - in fact none of the three wives did, which is why I love them so much! Yay for sensible, non-dramatic, frail women that faint everytime something mildly inconvenient happens. Celeste was yearning for individuallity and security at the same time - and somehow Owen was perfect for her.
He's a wonderful hero. He isn't one to have me fanning from sheer sexiness but I still think he's the best kind of hero that Celeste needed. Owen is lovely, and open and supportive and understanding and respectful. Uff, I like Own. A beta through and through. And really, I've had enough of alpha hero's and their heroness.
Their romance picks up quite early, none are trying to tamp down their feelings or pretending they aren't attracted to each other. The romance is palpable, however I will say the sexual tension wasn't as good as I've seen in other books - but despite that I did thoroughly enjoy the book.
Now coming to the two reasons why this book for me is 4 stars and not 3 -
1. The women! Abigal, Phillipa and Celeste form a friendship, a sisterhood of types. Each a victim of Montgomery and his evil. And instead of snipping at each other, or hating each other, or blaming each other - they form a bond. They talk openly of their pain, their betrayal and actually support each other because quite literally no one other than these three women really understand what they were going through.
To see such solidarity within women, technically women who had been in some way "the other woman" to each other, is beautiful to see. I have a particular fondness for Abigail and cannot wait to read her book!
2. The mystery of who killed Erasmus is bloody brilliant. Usually in romances I'm skimming through these things in the haste to get to the MC's and their interaction, I could care less about the Plot. But oh I cared here. The conclusion to the mystery is another reason I loved the book! I have to say I did not see that coming!
Go read the book!
I was intrigued by the set-up of the entire series and couldn't wait to get to them. I have to say with the first installation, I'm not dissapointed. Serious points for adult, intelligent MC's and women sticking by women. What a shocking thing to see in romances!
The overall plot of the series is very new, to me at least. Three women - Abigail, Phillipa and Celeste are all Mrs Montgomery, and yes the same Mrs Montgomery. Hello Bigamy, thy name is Erasmus Montgomery. Who's also a grade A assh*ole. And now dead. But more on that later.
This book is the unravelling of the murder of the woman's husbands and the coming together of the entire set of characters from the series. The unexpected wife explores the romance of the third wife (well not really wife, you know what I mean) Celeste and the private Investigator Owen Gregory, hired to investigate Erasmus on behalf of a powerful Duke. The story evolves around Celeste and Owen finding friendship, passion and eventually love.
I loved Celeste, she's bloody fantastic. She didn't fall into hysterics upon hearing that her husband was a bigamist - in fact none of the three wives did, which is why I love them so much! Yay for sensible, non-dramatic, frail women that faint everytime something mildly inconvenient happens. Celeste was yearning for individuallity and security at the same time - and somehow Owen was perfect for her.
He's a wonderful hero. He isn't one to have me fanning from sheer sexiness but I still think he's the best kind of hero that Celeste needed. Owen is lovely, and open and supportive and understanding and respectful. Uff, I like Own. A beta through and through. And really, I've had enough of alpha hero's and their heroness.
Their romance picks up quite early, none are trying to tamp down their feelings or pretending they aren't attracted to each other. The romance is palpable, however I will say the sexual tension wasn't as good as I've seen in other books - but despite that I did thoroughly enjoy the book.
Now coming to the two reasons why this book for me is 4 stars and not 3 -
1. The women! Abigal, Phillipa and Celeste form a friendship, a sisterhood of types. Each a victim of Montgomery and his evil. And instead of snipping at each other, or hating each other, or blaming each other - they form a bond. They talk openly of their pain, their betrayal and actually support each other because quite literally no one other than these three women really understand what they were going through.
To see such solidarity within women, technically women who had been in some way "the other woman" to each other, is beautiful to see. I have a particular fondness for Abigail and cannot wait to read her book!
2. The mystery of who killed Erasmus is bloody brilliant. Usually in romances I'm skimming through these things in the haste to get to the MC's and their interaction, I could care less about the Plot. But oh I cared here. The conclusion to the mystery is another reason I loved the book! I have to say I did not see that coming!
Go read the book!
May 7, 2021
The Unexpected Wife was an excellent start to a new historical romance series following three women who were all married to the same man.
Celeste Montgomery never wanted to marry Erasmus Montgomery, but thankfully her husband wasn't around often in their first year of marriage. When investigator Owen Gregory shows up at her home to inform her of her husband's murder, that's the least shocking news he's there to deliver. Her husband it turns out was a bigamist and Celeste was the third of his wives. Tasked with discovering if Celeste was involved in her husband's murder, Owen is surprised by his immediate attraction to her. After learning Celeste was not involved, Owen has Celeste accompany him to London in order to help him solve the crime. As the pair investigate Erasmus's death, their feelings for each other only continue to grow, endangering their lives in unexpected ways.
Celeste grew up knowing her parents never loved her and only viewed her as a way to become connected to an important family via marriage. Finding out her marriage was never valid and going to London was very freeing for Celeste as it allowed her to get away from her family and gave her time to figure out what it was she wanted out of life. I loved watching Celeste embrace her newfound freedom and how much happier she became as the book went on.
I loved Celeste and Owen's relationship. The connection between them was instantaneous and I loved how easy things were between them. He's kind and thoughtful, something Celeste has been lacking in her life. He was great about not interfering with the new freedom Celeste has and I liked that he didn't try to make her do anything she didn't want to do. Their chemistry was excellent and the few steamy scenes we got between the pair were well done. I enjoyed the pair working together on Erasmus's murder although, like Celeste, I was annoyed when Owen kept information from her. I was surprised by the resolution to the murder investigation which went in a direction I hadn't considered.
The other two wives, Abigail and Pippa, feature heavily in this book as Celeste stays with them after she arrives in London. I really liked the friendship that formed between the trio and how they didn't let what happened stop them from being friends. We also see quite a bit of the love interests for Abigail and Pippa and I'm looking forward to reading their books soon.
Overall The Unexpected Wife was an amazing start to the series and I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a new historical romance to pick up.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Celeste Montgomery never wanted to marry Erasmus Montgomery, but thankfully her husband wasn't around often in their first year of marriage. When investigator Owen Gregory shows up at her home to inform her of her husband's murder, that's the least shocking news he's there to deliver. Her husband it turns out was a bigamist and Celeste was the third of his wives. Tasked with discovering if Celeste was involved in her husband's murder, Owen is surprised by his immediate attraction to her. After learning Celeste was not involved, Owen has Celeste accompany him to London in order to help him solve the crime. As the pair investigate Erasmus's death, their feelings for each other only continue to grow, endangering their lives in unexpected ways.
Celeste grew up knowing her parents never loved her and only viewed her as a way to become connected to an important family via marriage. Finding out her marriage was never valid and going to London was very freeing for Celeste as it allowed her to get away from her family and gave her time to figure out what it was she wanted out of life. I loved watching Celeste embrace her newfound freedom and how much happier she became as the book went on.
I loved Celeste and Owen's relationship. The connection between them was instantaneous and I loved how easy things were between them. He's kind and thoughtful, something Celeste has been lacking in her life. He was great about not interfering with the new freedom Celeste has and I liked that he didn't try to make her do anything she didn't want to do. Their chemistry was excellent and the few steamy scenes we got between the pair were well done. I enjoyed the pair working together on Erasmus's murder although, like Celeste, I was annoyed when Owen kept information from her. I was surprised by the resolution to the murder investigation which went in a direction I hadn't considered.
The other two wives, Abigail and Pippa, feature heavily in this book as Celeste stays with them after she arrives in London. I really liked the friendship that formed between the trio and how they didn't let what happened stop them from being friends. We also see quite a bit of the love interests for Abigail and Pippa and I'm looking forward to reading their books soon.
Overall The Unexpected Wife was an amazing start to the series and I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a new historical romance to pick up.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
February 16, 2021
Celeste Montgomery can't believe it when investigator Owen Gregory shows up to deliver mindboggling news: Her husband has been murdered…and he was also a bigamist, with two wives before her. Owen determines Celeste couldn’t have been involved with the killing, and asks her to travel to London with him to meet the other wives and possibly provide insight into the case.
This is the first book in The 3 Mrs. series. I liked that the plot was unexpected and not something I had read before. Celeste is the unfortunate third wife and was forced, by her parents, to marry Erasmus Montgomery. She had no affection for him and only saw him a handful of times during their short "marriage." The story spends a good amount of time on the wives, and I felt as though more development could have gone towards Owen, the hero. The investigation unravels slowly, but picks up at the end with a worthwhile conclusion. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Tropes: Bluestocking, Forced Proximity
Eggplant Rating: 3 (three scenes)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheUnexpectedWife #NetGalley
This is the first book in The 3 Mrs. series. I liked that the plot was unexpected and not something I had read before. Celeste is the unfortunate third wife and was forced, by her parents, to marry Erasmus Montgomery. She had no affection for him and only saw him a handful of times during their short "marriage." The story spends a good amount of time on the wives, and I felt as though more development could have gone towards Owen, the hero. The investigation unravels slowly, but picks up at the end with a worthwhile conclusion. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Tropes: Bluestocking, Forced Proximity
Eggplant Rating: 3 (three scenes)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheUnexpectedWife #NetGalley
April 17, 2021
Very enjoyable story of Celeste Montgomery, whose just been told her husband has been murdered, and by the way he wasn't really your husband because he had two other wives already. Bringing this disastrous news is Owen Gregory, an investigator hired by the brother of the deceased. This story has twists and turns galore but in the middle is a wonderfully romantic love story. Brilliant start to a new series. Highly recommend.
March 11, 2024
It's funny. After reading over 400 books last year and almost that many the year before, I realized I don't really read book synopsis anymore unless checking out a new author.
Most books I read are authors that I've read all their books so I know they'll be good or its a continuation of a series so know what I'm expecting. I do know there are a few books I'll start and then go, wait..what is this book about? Then read the synopsis.
With that being said, I didn't know what I expected from this new series but LOVE Jess Michaels.
This was a great read. Loved the concept. Characters were great. Looking forward to the next two in this series. Thanks Jess!! You've done it again.
Most books I read are authors that I've read all their books so I know they'll be good or its a continuation of a series so know what I'm expecting. I do know there are a few books I'll start and then go, wait..what is this book about? Then read the synopsis.
With that being said, I didn't know what I expected from this new series but LOVE Jess Michaels.
This was a great read. Loved the concept. Characters were great. Looking forward to the next two in this series. Thanks Jess!! You've done it again.
May 25, 2021
In broad strokes the story is solid. The premise is intriguing— a man is dead and it turns out he secretly had three wives that he treated badly and was planning on taking a fourth. So many suspects. So much motive. Any one of those women could have killed him, plus a relative or two. That held up to the end. The ending was intriguing as well. But the execution of this high concept undermined my enjoyment so much that it was a slog to get through. Overall, interesting ideas undercut by awkward writing, two-dimensional characters, and some plot holes.
February 26, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up.
When investigator Owen Gregory tracks down Celeste Montgomery at her parent's home, the last thing she expected to hear was that the husband she hasn’t seen in six months is dead! But unfortunately, that was not all Owen had to share, not only was Erasmus Montgomery dead, but he was murdered and if that was not bad enough, she learns he was also a bigamist and as the third Mrs. Erasmus Montgomery, her marriage wasn’t valid!
Owen quickly determines that Celeste didn’t murder Erasmus and admires her intelligence and quiet beauty, so much so that he asks her to join him in London to help with the investigation. A proposition she quickly agrees to. They travel to London where she meets Abigail and Phillipa “Pippa”; the other “Mrs. Montgomerys” and they immediately form a bond. She also meets Erasmus’ brother, the Earl of Leighton, and the man who hired Owen, the Duke of Gilmore. She quickly settles in and is eager to help Owen find the killer and clear her new friend's names from the suspect list.
Celeste and Owen work together and soon give in to the attraction that has been brewing since they met, it is clear that they harbor deeper feelings, but before they can even consider a future, they will need to find out who killed Erasmus!
This was a well-written, fast-paced story with a wonderful cast of characters and a well-plotted mystery. This book is the first in a new series and there is a lot of set-up for the future installments, but that didn’t detract from Owen and Celeste’s romance at all. The story has a fantastic hero, great secondary characters, steamy love scenes, lies, secrets, betrayal, and will surprise you with some shocking twists and turns before Owen and Celeste get their HEA. This was a great book, but sadly I was disappointed when Celeste overreacts to a perceived betrayal and then proceeds to become a complete hypocrite – it was short-lived and quickly resolved, it didn't ruin the book, but, in my opinion, it marred the story. Overall, this was a great start to a new series that I am looking forward to reading and would be happy to recommend.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own *
When investigator Owen Gregory tracks down Celeste Montgomery at her parent's home, the last thing she expected to hear was that the husband she hasn’t seen in six months is dead! But unfortunately, that was not all Owen had to share, not only was Erasmus Montgomery dead, but he was murdered and if that was not bad enough, she learns he was also a bigamist and as the third Mrs. Erasmus Montgomery, her marriage wasn’t valid!
Owen quickly determines that Celeste didn’t murder Erasmus and admires her intelligence and quiet beauty, so much so that he asks her to join him in London to help with the investigation. A proposition she quickly agrees to. They travel to London where she meets Abigail and Phillipa “Pippa”; the other “Mrs. Montgomerys” and they immediately form a bond. She also meets Erasmus’ brother, the Earl of Leighton, and the man who hired Owen, the Duke of Gilmore. She quickly settles in and is eager to help Owen find the killer and clear her new friend's names from the suspect list.
Celeste and Owen work together and soon give in to the attraction that has been brewing since they met, it is clear that they harbor deeper feelings, but before they can even consider a future, they will need to find out who killed Erasmus!
This was a well-written, fast-paced story with a wonderful cast of characters and a well-plotted mystery. This book is the first in a new series and there is a lot of set-up for the future installments, but that didn’t detract from Owen and Celeste’s romance at all. The story has a fantastic hero, great secondary characters, steamy love scenes, lies, secrets, betrayal, and will surprise you with some shocking twists and turns before Owen and Celeste get their HEA. This was a great book, but sadly I was disappointed when Celeste overreacts to a perceived betrayal and then proceeds to become a complete hypocrite – it was short-lived and quickly resolved, it didn't ruin the book, but, in my opinion, it marred the story. Overall, this was a great start to a new series that I am looking forward to reading and would be happy to recommend.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own *
February 21, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
For Celeste Montgomery, discovering that the husband she had been forced to marry against her will was dead, and that she was in fact not even legally married, was both a shock, and something to be overjoyed about. On the one hand, she was free from the hovel he had put her in, and from his lacklustre attentions he put upon her. However, because Erasmus was a bigamist, there's two other wives for her to meet, and the scandal of his bigamy to overcome. Heading to London with Owen Gregory, the investigator who discovered the truth behind Erasmus' deception, Celeste hopes she can find some form of friendship with her fellow wives, and also maybe look more into the chemistry between herself and Owen.
This is the 6th of Jess' books that I've read, and I think it might be my favourite. The whole premise behind the story was fantastic, and learning more about each of the three wives - Celeste, Pippa, and Abigail - was lovely. Celeste had had a difficult childhood, with parents who never cared for her - only for which important family she married into - and then her marriage was horrific, for all the time Erasmus spent with her. He was only after her dowry, and when he got it, he left, but not before taking his conjugal rights so the marriage couldn't be annulled. Now 'widowed' she has some freedom, and being in London with Abigail, Pippa, and Owen, she could explore it further.
You might've thought that because of them all being sort of 'rivals' to Erasmus' affection, that the three wives would hate each other, but rather the situation turns into one of sisterly affection, and I adored seeing them build this friendship together. Like I said, learning about each wife was lovely, and I'm glad that the other two books with follow Pippa and Abigail's own stories. We've already met their love interests too. The Earl of Leighton (Erasmus' elder brother) and the Duke of Gilmore clearly have feelings for the other wives, and I cant wait to see them all have their own happy endings. Celeste and Owen definitely deserved the ending they got, and I really enjoyed the added mystery around what actually happened to Erasmus, and was there a 4th woman there too? The fact that the other books in the series will be released within months of each other is fantastic. This is definitely a series I can't wait to continue.
For Celeste Montgomery, discovering that the husband she had been forced to marry against her will was dead, and that she was in fact not even legally married, was both a shock, and something to be overjoyed about. On the one hand, she was free from the hovel he had put her in, and from his lacklustre attentions he put upon her. However, because Erasmus was a bigamist, there's two other wives for her to meet, and the scandal of his bigamy to overcome. Heading to London with Owen Gregory, the investigator who discovered the truth behind Erasmus' deception, Celeste hopes she can find some form of friendship with her fellow wives, and also maybe look more into the chemistry between herself and Owen.
This is the 6th of Jess' books that I've read, and I think it might be my favourite. The whole premise behind the story was fantastic, and learning more about each of the three wives - Celeste, Pippa, and Abigail - was lovely. Celeste had had a difficult childhood, with parents who never cared for her - only for which important family she married into - and then her marriage was horrific, for all the time Erasmus spent with her. He was only after her dowry, and when he got it, he left, but not before taking his conjugal rights so the marriage couldn't be annulled. Now 'widowed' she has some freedom, and being in London with Abigail, Pippa, and Owen, she could explore it further.
You might've thought that because of them all being sort of 'rivals' to Erasmus' affection, that the three wives would hate each other, but rather the situation turns into one of sisterly affection, and I adored seeing them build this friendship together. Like I said, learning about each wife was lovely, and I'm glad that the other two books with follow Pippa and Abigail's own stories. We've already met their love interests too. The Earl of Leighton (Erasmus' elder brother) and the Duke of Gilmore clearly have feelings for the other wives, and I cant wait to see them all have their own happy endings. Celeste and Owen definitely deserved the ending they got, and I really enjoyed the added mystery around what actually happened to Erasmus, and was there a 4th woman there too? The fact that the other books in the series will be released within months of each other is fantastic. This is definitely a series I can't wait to continue.
March 9, 2021
I have received an ARC of this book by NetGalley and The Passionate Pen and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The Pub date of the book is today, March 09 2021.
This author is not new to me because here we have some of her books translated and I have all of them. I like her and that’s why a requested this book. The synopsis sounded remarkably interesting and promising – and it was a very good story – for me.
Owen and Celeste were the cutest couple.
I liked that he wasn’t one of the top-ranking lords and that he showed emotions frequently – and still did the job he loves. We all love a scoundrel, but sometimes, we love the Owens too, am I wrong? Guess not. Another thing I liked immensely: the author did not made Celeste a dumb woman and still made her somehow a bit innocent and sweet. She was clever, curious, and observant. I liked a lot of that. Wasn’t she perfect for Owen? Yes!
About the “intimate scenes” – I didn’t see nothing that disappointed me or that I disliked. I LOVED the fact that he was concerned about her consent and that the opinion of Celeste were more important that the desire of Owen. And by doing that, he still had so much love and pleasure, because she wished too, good things to him and his/their pleasure.
I am now extremely curious about the other characters and theirs stories. So many emotions and revelations, my god!
Going to be waiting the next ones, for sure.
This author is not new to me because here we have some of her books translated and I have all of them. I like her and that’s why a requested this book. The synopsis sounded remarkably interesting and promising – and it was a very good story – for me.
Owen and Celeste were the cutest couple.
I liked that he wasn’t one of the top-ranking lords and that he showed emotions frequently – and still did the job he loves. We all love a scoundrel, but sometimes, we love the Owens too, am I wrong? Guess not. Another thing I liked immensely: the author did not made Celeste a dumb woman and still made her somehow a bit innocent and sweet. She was clever, curious, and observant. I liked a lot of that. Wasn’t she perfect for Owen? Yes!
About the “intimate scenes” – I didn’t see nothing that disappointed me or that I disliked. I LOVED the fact that he was concerned about her consent and that the opinion of Celeste were more important that the desire of Owen. And by doing that, he still had so much love and pleasure, because she wished too, good things to him and his/their pleasure.
I am now extremely curious about the other characters and theirs stories. So many emotions and revelations, my god!
Going to be waiting the next ones, for sure.
March 3, 2021
I requested this book on Netgalley because I love Jess Michaels but the premise is just so interesting. I had such sympathy for the three wives but I grew to love their different personalities and the support of each other. Celeste and Owen had a connection from the start. Owen is very sympathetic and kind to her. He is a capable investigator. Celeste needed someone to see that she was special. Love the romance but the plot has really great twists and turns. I really, really wanted to know the outcome of the investigation. Great ending and I’m super excited about the next two books!
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
May 29, 2021
So it was a good book. Plot was interesting with a few twist. It had many enjoyable characters and set up the next few books, as always Mrs. Michael’s writes steam well. Plot 8(1-10) steaminess 8(1-10).
July 4, 2021
I was quite intrigued when Jess Michaels announced she was writing a trilogy about three heroines finding themselves married to the same man, who not only gets murdered, but who's killer is unknown.
The opening to this series was a little lackluster for me. It did a good job establishing the backstory for the whole trilogy, introducing the titular 'three mrs' and any other important characters for the plot, but it kind of failed when it comes to the romance itself.
I liked both Celeste and Owen, they were sweet together and their relationship was fun to read about. But it was somewhat hindered by instant lust bordering on love they felt for each other upon first meeting. I'm not a fan of the trope, so I was maybe not that invested with the story from the beginning. To be honest, I didn't connect with either of the main characters much.
Don't get me wrong, I really liked how kind and caring Owen was, or how Celeste bravely fought to overcome her insecurities, and devastating circumstances she found herself to be in when her "husband" was murdered. But there was some spark missing. Moreover, this book seems rather tame compared to other works by the author.
Overall a good book, maybe a little slow at times.
3+/5 stars
The opening to this series was a little lackluster for me. It did a good job establishing the backstory for the whole trilogy, introducing the titular 'three mrs' and any other important characters for the plot, but it kind of failed when it comes to the romance itself.
I liked both Celeste and Owen, they were sweet together and their relationship was fun to read about. But it was somewhat hindered by instant lust bordering on love they felt for each other upon first meeting. I'm not a fan of the trope, so I was maybe not that invested with the story from the beginning. To be honest, I didn't connect with either of the main characters much.
Don't get me wrong, I really liked how kind and caring Owen was, or how Celeste bravely fought to overcome her insecurities, and devastating circumstances she found herself to be in when her "husband" was murdered. But there was some spark missing. Moreover, this book seems rather tame compared to other works by the author.
Overall a good book, maybe a little slow at times.
3+/5 stars
March 6, 2021
What a fantastic start to what I think will be a fabulous series!
*****
Rating: 5 stars
Steam: 2.5 flames
Genre: Romantic Suspense / Historical
*****
What would you do if one day a gentleman showed up on your doorstep to tell you your husband is dead. What would you do if you found out he isn't just dead; but murdered and you were the third of three wives? That is how the Three Mrs. series begins and is what Celeste Montgomery is faced with when Owen Gregory walks into her life.
Celeste is intelligent, perceptive, and beautiful; a bluestocking and a spinster until Erasmus “Ras” Montgomery showed up in her small town. Ras wooed her parents, garnered a sizable dowry to wed Celeste and then left her in little more than a hovel of a home. Celeste’s marriage was forced and anything but blissful.
Owen has been hired by Ras’ brother the Earl of Leighton and the Duke of Gilmore, brother of Erasmus’ almost fourth victim to discover the truth behind Erasmus’ murder. Everyone is a suspect, especially the three wives and it is Owen’s job to uncover the truth.
Celeste and Owen have instant chemistry and the bond begins quickly and grows throughout the book. They are similar souls, both smart, perceptive, honest, and caring. Although Celeste has never been shown much care or love in her life, she has a forgiving and loving heart. But, before Owen and Celeste can take steps toward a future, Owen must eliminate her as a suspect and solve Ras' murder.
The three wives, Abigail, Pippa, and Celeste become fast friends over a shared betrayal. Owen, the Earl of Leighton, and the Duke of Gilmore, also form a bond over a murder and maybe…three Mrs'.
The Unexpected Wife is a suspenseful, historical, who-dun-it romance, with characters and a storyline that will instantly draw you in. If you are ready for a rollercoaster ride of suspects, twists, betrayals, deception, and an ending you will never see coming, this is the book for you. I loved it!
*****
Rating: 5 stars
Steam: 2.5 flames
Genre: Romantic Suspense / Historical
*****
What would you do if one day a gentleman showed up on your doorstep to tell you your husband is dead. What would you do if you found out he isn't just dead; but murdered and you were the third of three wives? That is how the Three Mrs. series begins and is what Celeste Montgomery is faced with when Owen Gregory walks into her life.
Celeste is intelligent, perceptive, and beautiful; a bluestocking and a spinster until Erasmus “Ras” Montgomery showed up in her small town. Ras wooed her parents, garnered a sizable dowry to wed Celeste and then left her in little more than a hovel of a home. Celeste’s marriage was forced and anything but blissful.
Owen has been hired by Ras’ brother the Earl of Leighton and the Duke of Gilmore, brother of Erasmus’ almost fourth victim to discover the truth behind Erasmus’ murder. Everyone is a suspect, especially the three wives and it is Owen’s job to uncover the truth.
Celeste and Owen have instant chemistry and the bond begins quickly and grows throughout the book. They are similar souls, both smart, perceptive, honest, and caring. Although Celeste has never been shown much care or love in her life, she has a forgiving and loving heart. But, before Owen and Celeste can take steps toward a future, Owen must eliminate her as a suspect and solve Ras' murder.
The three wives, Abigail, Pippa, and Celeste become fast friends over a shared betrayal. Owen, the Earl of Leighton, and the Duke of Gilmore, also form a bond over a murder and maybe…three Mrs'.
The Unexpected Wife is a suspenseful, historical, who-dun-it romance, with characters and a storyline that will instantly draw you in. If you are ready for a rollercoaster ride of suspects, twists, betrayals, deception, and an ending you will never see coming, this is the book for you. I loved it!
March 16, 2021
The Unexpected Wife by Jess Michaels
The Three Mrs. #1
Three women
One dead bigamist husband
Who killed the husband?
Was it one of the wives?
Or another?
What I liked:
* Great start to a new series that introduced the characters that will feature in at least three books in the series
* Owen: investigator, intelligent, likes puzzles, truth seeker, intuitive, fact finder, falls for Celeste quickly. Charming and lusty book boyfriend
* Celeste: bright, underestimated, often overlooked, pushed into a marriage she did not want, falls for Owen quickly. Liked her.
* That though Owen and Celeste had chemistry early they did not act upon it too quickly.
* The way the relationship developed between Owen and Celeste
* The unexpected friendship between the wives
* The other two wives: Abigail and Phillipa
* The two men that will star in the next two books: Gilmore and Leighton
* The twist(s)
* That there was a HEA for Owen and Celeste
What I didn’t like:
* Erasmus “Ras” Montgomery: cad, bigamist, user and abuser
* Celeste’s parents
* Having to wait for the next book in the series.
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and The Passionate Pen, LLC. for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
The Three Mrs. #1
Three women
One dead bigamist husband
Who killed the husband?
Was it one of the wives?
Or another?
What I liked:
* Great start to a new series that introduced the characters that will feature in at least three books in the series
* Owen: investigator, intelligent, likes puzzles, truth seeker, intuitive, fact finder, falls for Celeste quickly. Charming and lusty book boyfriend
* Celeste: bright, underestimated, often overlooked, pushed into a marriage she did not want, falls for Owen quickly. Liked her.
* That though Owen and Celeste had chemistry early they did not act upon it too quickly.
* The way the relationship developed between Owen and Celeste
* The unexpected friendship between the wives
* The other two wives: Abigail and Phillipa
* The two men that will star in the next two books: Gilmore and Leighton
* The twist(s)
* That there was a HEA for Owen and Celeste
What I didn’t like:
* Erasmus “Ras” Montgomery: cad, bigamist, user and abuser
* Celeste’s parents
* Having to wait for the next book in the series.
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and The Passionate Pen, LLC. for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
May 25, 2021
The Unexpected Wife by Jess Michaels is fantastic start to her new series, The Three Mrs. Celeste Montgomery was wed to Erasmus Montgomery, a marriage arranged by her parents, but unwanted by her. Luckily, her husband wasn’t around much during the their marriage so when our hero, Owen Gregory, arrives to break the news that her husband has been murdered, she’s more shocked to find out he was also a cad who married two other women as well and with her being the latest wife, isn’t actually wed. Owen quickly clears Celeste of suspicion and asks her to accompany him back to London to meet the other women who ‘married’ Montgomery. And that’s where the fun begins.
Celeste is an interesting character. Strong willed, she holds it together when no one would blame her for breaking down. The friendship that develops between the three ladies is unique and very fun to read. Celeste had a loveless childhood and marriage, so the reader is rooting for her to find her happily ever after. Owen is perfect for her. He appreciates her intelligence, her steady demeanor, Their chemistry is instant. And steamy hot. I love Ms. Michaels’ writing, and I expect lots of heat, but I didn’t expect a great mystery from her. But I got one in this book.
I loved The Unexpected Wife. Great characters, great story, great heat, everything I’ve come to expect from Jess Michaels. I can’t wait to read the other two books! 4.5 stars
Celeste is an interesting character. Strong willed, she holds it together when no one would blame her for breaking down. The friendship that develops between the three ladies is unique and very fun to read. Celeste had a loveless childhood and marriage, so the reader is rooting for her to find her happily ever after. Owen is perfect for her. He appreciates her intelligence, her steady demeanor, Their chemistry is instant. And steamy hot. I love Ms. Michaels’ writing, and I expect lots of heat, but I didn’t expect a great mystery from her. But I got one in this book.
I loved The Unexpected Wife. Great characters, great story, great heat, everything I’ve come to expect from Jess Michaels. I can’t wait to read the other two books! 4.5 stars
February 28, 2021
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Unexpected Wife is the first in Jess Michaels’ newest series, The 3 Mrs., and it may just be one of my favorites of hers. For one, the premise is a spin on one of my favorites, bringing together the scorned women of a philandering man.
I really felt for Celeste, and how she was basically conned into the marriage by her awful parents, only to find out he was a bigamist after he was murdered. But to see her rightly place the blame at his door, and to immediately form a rapport with the other two women was nice to see, and I hope it continues throughout the series.
Owen is a great hero, and the antithesis of everything she has known. He’s a very good investigator, being smart and level-headed, hence his reluctance at first to get involved with her, but he is also a very caring person and provides a sense of stability for her that she hasn’t had before.
And while Jess Michaels isn’t known for her mystery plots, she crafts an excellent one here, keeping me intrigued throughout. There’s a plot twist towards the end that had my jaw dropping due to how well-thought out it was, and I found it very satisfying overall.
This is a delightful read, and I think fans of historical romances with a bit of mystery will love it.
The Unexpected Wife is the first in Jess Michaels’ newest series, The 3 Mrs., and it may just be one of my favorites of hers. For one, the premise is a spin on one of my favorites, bringing together the scorned women of a philandering man.
I really felt for Celeste, and how she was basically conned into the marriage by her awful parents, only to find out he was a bigamist after he was murdered. But to see her rightly place the blame at his door, and to immediately form a rapport with the other two women was nice to see, and I hope it continues throughout the series.
Owen is a great hero, and the antithesis of everything she has known. He’s a very good investigator, being smart and level-headed, hence his reluctance at first to get involved with her, but he is also a very caring person and provides a sense of stability for her that she hasn’t had before.
And while Jess Michaels isn’t known for her mystery plots, she crafts an excellent one here, keeping me intrigued throughout. There’s a plot twist towards the end that had my jaw dropping due to how well-thought out it was, and I found it very satisfying overall.
This is a delightful read, and I think fans of historical romances with a bit of mystery will love it.
February 13, 2021
The entire premise of this book took me by surprise. I did not read the blurb before I read it, I don't need to read a blurb to know I am going to want to read a book by Jess Michaels. I was completely shocked, and I LOVED it.
Let me first just say, what a clever idea for a series! I have never read anything like it. I also never saw the twist coming. This one really really got me shook! I will not spoil it, but this story is absolutely amazing. Not only are the characters excellent, the story well written, and the sex sizzling, the plot is truly awesome. I cannot say enough good things about it. This book was the escape I needed.
Owen is a great hero. I almost always love investigators as heroes, and this holds true here. Owen is smart and logical, two things I admire. Celeste is also intelligent and not shy at all about showing it. I also loved the characters of Harriet and Lady Lena as well. They intrigued me, and I hope we see more of them throughout this series. The other wives are both excellent characters. I cannot wait for their stories!
Just go ahead and plan on reading this book the *second* it comes out. This whole series is going to be amazing.
Let me first just say, what a clever idea for a series! I have never read anything like it. I also never saw the twist coming. This one really really got me shook! I will not spoil it, but this story is absolutely amazing. Not only are the characters excellent, the story well written, and the sex sizzling, the plot is truly awesome. I cannot say enough good things about it. This book was the escape I needed.
Owen is a great hero. I almost always love investigators as heroes, and this holds true here. Owen is smart and logical, two things I admire. Celeste is also intelligent and not shy at all about showing it. I also loved the characters of Harriet and Lady Lena as well. They intrigued me, and I hope we see more of them throughout this series. The other wives are both excellent characters. I cannot wait for their stories!
Just go ahead and plan on reading this book the *second* it comes out. This whole series is going to be amazing.
March 17, 2021
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The Unexpected Wife by Jess Michaels is the first book in her new series The Three Mrs. Montgomerys. To Celeste Montgomery her husbands frequent absences were perhaps the only nice thing he had done for her. When investigator Owen Gregory arrives at her door with the news that her Erasmus Montgomery has been murdered, that she’s actually the third Mrs. Montgomery and she and the other wives are the main suspects, she's not about to waste any time grieving the man and determines to help solve the murder. I enjoyed this story and the mystery and characters were intriguing but I think because of its short length things that needed a better explanation were just glossed over and time better spent on this story is used to set up the next two. I felt that a prologue would have established the scene better, perhaps explaining why Celeste ended up married to Erasmus Montgomery in the first place. Medium Steam. Publishing Date: March 9, 2021 #TheUnexpectedWife #JessMichaels #VictoryEditing #NetGalley #HistoricalRomance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #HistoricalMystery
The Unexpected Wife by Jess Michaels is the first book in her new series The Three Mrs. Montgomerys. To Celeste Montgomery her husbands frequent absences were perhaps the only nice thing he had done for her. When investigator Owen Gregory arrives at her door with the news that her Erasmus Montgomery has been murdered, that she’s actually the third Mrs. Montgomery and she and the other wives are the main suspects, she's not about to waste any time grieving the man and determines to help solve the murder. I enjoyed this story and the mystery and characters were intriguing but I think because of its short length things that needed a better explanation were just glossed over and time better spent on this story is used to set up the next two. I felt that a prologue would have established the scene better, perhaps explaining why Celeste ended up married to Erasmus Montgomery in the first place. Medium Steam. Publishing Date: March 9, 2021 #TheUnexpectedWife #JessMichaels #VictoryEditing #NetGalley #HistoricalRomance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #HistoricalMystery
March 10, 2021
I LOVED this book. It was the perfect steamy escape with the right amount of mystery. I don't often read murder or suspense but this had me on edge to find out how the mystery ended. The relationship between the wives felt real. They were brought together from unfortunate circumstances that they made the best of.
Celeste and Owen were adorable together. Both finally figuring out what they needed from life. The space Owen gave Celeste to figure things out for herself was wonderful.
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher & Netgally in exchange for an honest review.
Celeste and Owen were adorable together. Both finally figuring out what they needed from life. The space Owen gave Celeste to figure things out for herself was wonderful.
I received an ARC of this book via the publisher & Netgally in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2021
The Unexpected Wife by Jess Michaels
The book was good, as far as story content, as far as character development, I felt like I knew each of the wives and the husband.
I gave it only 3 stars, however, for the raunchy, explicit sex scenes. Some people really like that in a book, I do not. Those parts of the book seemed closer to pornography than historical fiction, to me. I would not have signed up for it, if I knew ahead of time, that it was a part of the story.
I received a complimentary copy from #netgalley of #theunexpectedwife and was under no obligation to post a review.
The book was good, as far as story content, as far as character development, I felt like I knew each of the wives and the husband.
I gave it only 3 stars, however, for the raunchy, explicit sex scenes. Some people really like that in a book, I do not. Those parts of the book seemed closer to pornography than historical fiction, to me. I would not have signed up for it, if I knew ahead of time, that it was a part of the story.
I received a complimentary copy from #netgalley of #theunexpectedwife and was under no obligation to post a review.
April 6, 2021
A brilliant story. Lots of sexy bits. So very enjoyable to read. I think #2 is going to be a smash hit too. Loved it! 5☆
July 14, 2024
Recensione pubblicata nel blog Crispi's Books
Buongiorno care amiche lettrici,
in questi giorni sono tornata tra le pagine di un romanzo ambientato in epoca Regency, questa volta per conoscere la penna audace di un’autrice oltreoceano che, da circa un decennio dopo essere diventata self, ha all’attivo numerose pubblicazioni postume e precedenti, che hanno attirato un vasto seguito di lettrici. Cosa mi ha spinta ad accettare questa collaborazione? La curiosità che ahimè, non mi manca e che rischia di diventare sempre più affamata, tanto da spingermi a leggere sempre di più! Ma torniamo a noi! Cosa fareste se un giorno all’improvviso, un uomo affascinante, dal sorriso gentile e un’invitante fossetta sulla guancia, venisse a casa vostra per distruggere il vostro mondo e tutte le annesse certezze? Ed è proprio ciò che succede nell’estate del 1813 a Celeste, la protagonista della storia che, dopo essersi frantumata sotto il terremoto di sensazioni spiazzanti e sconvolgenti, che hanno seguito le rivelazioni di Owen, si accorge che mai messaggero è stato più bello e sexy, tanto da turbarla in maniera irreversibile, stimolando in lei pensieri arditi e inopportuni, che finiscono con l’incendiare la sua mente per poi farle arrossire il viso! Ma non è la sola, perché anche il pragmatico e virtuoso investigatore, ligio al dovere e servo della verità, non è rimasto insensibile al fascino e alla bellezza che si trova davanti, e che smentisce del tutto le sue aspettative! Ma com’è Owen?
"Era un uomo molto bello. Aveva capelli castani un po’ troppo lunghi, una mascella ben definita e una bocca che evidentemente sorrideva spesso, anche se di certo non lo stava facendo adesso. Anche i suoi occhi erano molto belli, di un marrone chiaro, che sostenevano fermamente il suo sguardo. «Signora Montgomery?»"
Ma dov’è finita la donna che si era immaginato mentre cavalcava lungo la strada che da Londra, lo stava portando al villaggio agreste e dal nome quasi ridicolo di Twiddleport? Dopo essersi informato su di lei, per scoprire che aveva trent’anni e che fosse rimasta zitella fino al matrimonio combinato, un anno prima, era stato per lui automatico figurarsi una donna priva di attrattive, molto più vecchia dei suoi anni, appassita e incolore, “resa smunta dalla vita”. Ma Celeste invece è tutt’altra cosa! E’ un concentrato di avvenenza femminile che lo lascia letteralmente senza fiato! Così alta, morbida nelle forme e con uno sguardo smarrito e sorpreso, che si sprigiona da due occhi magnifici color grigio azzurro, che le illuminano il viso ora arrossito, mentre incrocia i suoi. Per non parlare dei capelli scuri e ramati, che evocano il colore del fuoco, come le fiamme che gli incendiano i sensi, mentre segue il loro colare voluttuoso sulle spalle della donna, che, come nessun’altra prima, ha acceso il suo interesse. In più, come se non bastasse, dopo aver conversato con lei, scopre addirittura che è dotata di un’intelligenza pronta e di un acume invidiabile, che suggerirà a Owen la scusa per tenerla accanto a sé, dopo aver concluso il suo difficile compito di ambasciatore, foriero di una terribile notizia: il marito di Celeste, Erasmus Montgomery, il fratello del Conte di Leighton era morto a Londra improvvisamente, lasciando lei e altre due mogli allo sbando! Insomma! Una vera disgrazia che nella sua tragicità ha però il merito di scatenare un potente colpo di fulmine che li travolgerà in un turbine di sensazioni e in una spirale incendiaria alla quale non sapranno resistere!
"Perché proprio lei? Non era mai stato il tipo di uomo che sbavava dietro a una donna in modo così spudorato. Ogni tanto si faceva un’amante. Non era un monaco. Ma non... si struggeva. Non seduceva. Non... non sognava donne specifiche come aveva sognato lei."
E’ un’attrazione immediata che non vede l'ora di esplodere creando il mood che si insinua e si impadronisce del romanzo già dalle prime pagine, per colorarlo di un’intensa sfumatura ardente. Ma non sarà l'unica, perché la suspense con suoi misteri, segreti e colpi di scena detteranno i tempi narrativi attraverso momenti di indagine, sospetti e ricerca. Tutto questo in un’epoca dove le convenzioni sono precise e il ton si staglia come un’ombra minacciosa, che pende come una spada di Damocle sulle teste di coloro che frequentavano gli ambienti dell’alta società, soprattutto per chi ha sangue nobile e responsabilità maggiori verso i membri della casata, presenti, passati e futuri. Lo scandalo è l’incubo peggiore, la disgrazia più temibile e pericolosa! In grado di sbranare e affossare la dignità, imprimendo il marchio della vergogna, fino a mandare in rovina, per poi lasciare una cicatrice indelebile sull’integrità della casata. Con il tempo è una macchia destinata a scolorire, ma quanti anni dovranno passare per essere considerati nuovamente degni della considerazione e del rispetto degli altri membri dell’alta società londinese? Lo sanno bene il Conte di Leighton, il fratello di Erasmus Montgomery, così come il suo amico, il Duca di Gilmore che allertati dalle intenzioni del bigamo, deciso a sposare un'altra donna, assoldano Owen, chi prima e chi dopo, nella speranza di impedirlo, approfittando della discrezione di quest’ultimo. Peccato che le loro precauzioni non servono a nulla, perchè ben presto si troveranno coinvolti in una situazione che rischia di avere conseguenze catastrofiche non soltanto per loro, ma anche per Abigail la prima moglie e Pippa la seconda, che diventeranno per i due uomini figure da proteggere, e per Celeste delle vere amiche, accomunate dallo stesso destino e da un futuro incerto. Una per tutte e tutte per una e sarà così, anche a dispetto dei sentimenti, perché la sorellanza che le lega diventa talmente forte da essere degna di protezione e messa al servizio della verità. Poi capirete cosa intendo…
"Sembra che siamo persone nettamente diverse per temperamento.» «E nell’aspetto» aggiunse lui. «Abigail ha i capelli scuri, Phillipa i riccioli biondi e tu hai quelle...» si schiarì la gola. «... bellissime ciocche ramate.» Celeste si sentì avvampare il viso."
Ma Owen e Celeste protetti da queste persone amiche e costretti a vivere, mi riferisco a Celeste e alle altre due mogli, in una sorta di esilio lontano dai salotti mondani, troveranno il modo di rapportarsi tra loro, alimentando e lasciando fluire l’attrazione incandescente che si sprigiona quando sono nella stessa stanza, per poi vivere ciò che sentono al di là delle regole e della buona creanza…si dice così, giusto? Owen è schiavo dei sensi e della donna che glieli infiamma, mentre Celeste, sull’onda di una nuova consapevolezza di se stessa, non ha più nessuna intenzione di rinunciare a quel lato bello della vita che non conosce e del quale non ha mai avuto sentore, intrappolata in una famiglia asfissiante e interessata principalmente al lato materiale, piuttosto che al benessere della figlia, che è stata costretta ad accettare un matrimonio combinato, ma non desiderato, così com’era consuetudine all’epoca.
"Ma non era lui a comandare, a quanto pareva, proprio come l’ultima volta. Lei gli avvolse le braccia intorno al collo, aprì la bocca, si fece esigente e lui fu troppo debole per non darle esattamente ciò che voleva. "
Sono le atmosfere ardenti che ci si aspetta, dopo aver letto la presentazione di Jess Michaels, un’autrice che “scrive romanzi d’amore storici con eroi super sexy ed eroine irriverenti che fanno di tutto per ottenere quello che vogliono senza stare ad aspettare.” Per questo motivo, chi è abituato a leggere Regency che si conformano rigidamente all'etichetta dell’epoca e a comportamenti consoni al ton, qui potranno scoprire che si tratta di un romanzo che strizza l’occhio allo storico, prendendosi diverse licenze, per aggiungere alla storia una dose di speziato, merito dell'innegabile seduzione delle ambientazioni regency e degli abiti d'epoca, con i loro bottoncini infiniti, le camiciole leggere, quasi trasparenti e con le spalline che scivolano nei momenti giusti, mentre patte irriverenti occhieggiano tentatrici... tutti elementi che rendono l’eros e i momenti hot, pregne delle affascinanti atmosfere del diciannovesimo secolo, capaci di sollecitare molte fantasie, le stesse alimentate dall’autrice che ha trovato in questa dimensione il suo posto preferito. Ed è lo stesso che lambisce anche chi legge, con i suoi personaggi maschili il più delle volte nobili, bellissimi, audaci e appassionati alle prese con eroine che, seppur timide e titubanti, al momento del dunque, sanno afferrare ciò che vogliono senza false ipocrisie.
"Ma quando fece per allontanarsi, per prendere le distanze, lei lo tirò più vicino. «Owen» sussurrò, e il suo respiro gli increspò le labbra perché lui era già proteso verso di lei, troppo vicino, troppo potente, troppo fuori controllo."
Questo è un assaggio di ciò che vi aspetta, perchè l’attrazione tra i due protagonisti è palpabile già dalle prime battute, per poi riverberarsi in un Regency dalle calde sfumature Spicy che fa da cornice alla drammatica vicenda narrata che mette in standby la dignità e l’onore dei vari personaggi che entreranno a far parte della storia, tutti accomunati da una stessa sorte, che inevitabilmente cambierà le loro vite. A tutto questo si aggiunge la tinta ombrosa regalata dalla suspense e dalle indagini, mentre si aggiungono chiare folate che hanno il sapore di emancipazione femminile, del rispetto delle diversità e dei gusti di ognuno. Celeste ha l'opportunità di evadere dal mondo ristretto in cui è cresciuta per affrontare un'altra realtà e fare nuove conoscenze, in un un momento in cui la vita sembra buttarla a terra. Invece, giorno dopo giorno acquisisce maggiore consapevolezza verso se stessa e il suo valore, soprattutto grazie all’incontro con Owen che le offrirà l’opportunità di scoprire le sue abilità anche in campo investigativo, tanto da arrivare a sfidarlo e fare di testa sua! (Quasi una novella suffragetta di molto in anticipo sui tempi, che vedranno proprio in Inghilterra la nascita dei primi moti a favore del movimento femminile) Ma Owen e Celeste sono soltanto amici, amanti o collaboratori? Quanto potrà accettare di essere soltanto questo e niente di più? Eppure il suo cuore, per quanto cerchi di tenerlo a freno, le suggerisce altre verità. E poi? E poi…Scopritelo leggendo perché vi ho già detto troppo!
"Voleva toccarlo, con la stessa naturalezza con cui Lena e Harriet cercavano sostegno l’una dall’altra. Invece, fece un respiro profondo."
“La Moglie Inaspettata” si è rivelata una lettura intrigante, maliziosa e d’effetto, raccontata attraverso uno stile narrativo molto scorrevole, gradevole e incisivo, grazie anche a una traduzione eccellente. La trama è articolata e ben strutturata, merito della presenza del lato investigativo e delle vicende ad esso collegate, che sono risultate interessanti e ben bilanciate rispetto alla storia d’amore e la trasformazione di Celeste, che è a mio giudizio, uno dei punti focali della storia, considerando la sua personalità che, con lo scorrere delle pagine, acquista contorni sempre più netti, passando attraverso un saliscendi emotivo, per poi diventare più centrata e multi sfaccettata. Owen invece, come personaggio ha forse subito una sopraffazione da parte della personalità di Celeste, che si è approfittata di lui e della sua gentilezza, rubandogli un po’ la scena. Ma lui è così, bello, gentile sorridente e disponibile, quindi perchè non avvantaggiarsene? L’unico neo, se così posso definirlo, perchè è attinente al mio gusto personale, ho sentito la mancanza di una maggiore sfumatura ironica, che avrebbe contribuito a stemperare la nota greve che, seppur attinente alla gravità dei fatti raccontati, diventa quasi una nebbia onnipresente che ingoia un pò’ tutto, pur giocandosela a pari merito con quella ardente che, insieme alla traccia suspense, costituiscono le frequenze sprigionate da La Moglie Inattesa.
"Lui sbatté le palpebre e guardò quel suo bel viso rivolto all'insù. Oh sì, era decisamente innamorato di questa donna. Disperatamente, completamente e irrimediabilmente innamorato."
Vi invito alla scoperta di Owen e Celeste perché sapranno conquistarvi con la loro storia d’amore, che tra un’indagine, un sospetto, un intrigo e un colpo di scena saprà sorprendervi. Aspetto di leggere la storia delle altre due mogli, Phillippa e Abigail che hanno degli ammiratori già apparsi in questo primo volume, entrambi bellissimi e decisamente sexy! Che possiamo farci? Ci tocca "sopportare"… Non possiamo certo dire a Jess Michaels di smetterla, giusto? (occhiolino) Buona lettura e alla prossima!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia ARC
Buongiorno care amiche lettrici,
in questi giorni sono tornata tra le pagine di un romanzo ambientato in epoca Regency, questa volta per conoscere la penna audace di un’autrice oltreoceano che, da circa un decennio dopo essere diventata self, ha all’attivo numerose pubblicazioni postume e precedenti, che hanno attirato un vasto seguito di lettrici. Cosa mi ha spinta ad accettare questa collaborazione? La curiosità che ahimè, non mi manca e che rischia di diventare sempre più affamata, tanto da spingermi a leggere sempre di più! Ma torniamo a noi! Cosa fareste se un giorno all’improvviso, un uomo affascinante, dal sorriso gentile e un’invitante fossetta sulla guancia, venisse a casa vostra per distruggere il vostro mondo e tutte le annesse certezze? Ed è proprio ciò che succede nell’estate del 1813 a Celeste, la protagonista della storia che, dopo essersi frantumata sotto il terremoto di sensazioni spiazzanti e sconvolgenti, che hanno seguito le rivelazioni di Owen, si accorge che mai messaggero è stato più bello e sexy, tanto da turbarla in maniera irreversibile, stimolando in lei pensieri arditi e inopportuni, che finiscono con l’incendiare la sua mente per poi farle arrossire il viso! Ma non è la sola, perché anche il pragmatico e virtuoso investigatore, ligio al dovere e servo della verità, non è rimasto insensibile al fascino e alla bellezza che si trova davanti, e che smentisce del tutto le sue aspettative! Ma com’è Owen?
"Era un uomo molto bello. Aveva capelli castani un po’ troppo lunghi, una mascella ben definita e una bocca che evidentemente sorrideva spesso, anche se di certo non lo stava facendo adesso. Anche i suoi occhi erano molto belli, di un marrone chiaro, che sostenevano fermamente il suo sguardo. «Signora Montgomery?»"
Ma dov’è finita la donna che si era immaginato mentre cavalcava lungo la strada che da Londra, lo stava portando al villaggio agreste e dal nome quasi ridicolo di Twiddleport? Dopo essersi informato su di lei, per scoprire che aveva trent’anni e che fosse rimasta zitella fino al matrimonio combinato, un anno prima, era stato per lui automatico figurarsi una donna priva di attrattive, molto più vecchia dei suoi anni, appassita e incolore, “resa smunta dalla vita”. Ma Celeste invece è tutt’altra cosa! E’ un concentrato di avvenenza femminile che lo lascia letteralmente senza fiato! Così alta, morbida nelle forme e con uno sguardo smarrito e sorpreso, che si sprigiona da due occhi magnifici color grigio azzurro, che le illuminano il viso ora arrossito, mentre incrocia i suoi. Per non parlare dei capelli scuri e ramati, che evocano il colore del fuoco, come le fiamme che gli incendiano i sensi, mentre segue il loro colare voluttuoso sulle spalle della donna, che, come nessun’altra prima, ha acceso il suo interesse. In più, come se non bastasse, dopo aver conversato con lei, scopre addirittura che è dotata di un’intelligenza pronta e di un acume invidiabile, che suggerirà a Owen la scusa per tenerla accanto a sé, dopo aver concluso il suo difficile compito di ambasciatore, foriero di una terribile notizia: il marito di Celeste, Erasmus Montgomery, il fratello del Conte di Leighton era morto a Londra improvvisamente, lasciando lei e altre due mogli allo sbando! Insomma! Una vera disgrazia che nella sua tragicità ha però il merito di scatenare un potente colpo di fulmine che li travolgerà in un turbine di sensazioni e in una spirale incendiaria alla quale non sapranno resistere!
"Perché proprio lei? Non era mai stato il tipo di uomo che sbavava dietro a una donna in modo così spudorato. Ogni tanto si faceva un’amante. Non era un monaco. Ma non... si struggeva. Non seduceva. Non... non sognava donne specifiche come aveva sognato lei."
E’ un’attrazione immediata che non vede l'ora di esplodere creando il mood che si insinua e si impadronisce del romanzo già dalle prime pagine, per colorarlo di un’intensa sfumatura ardente. Ma non sarà l'unica, perché la suspense con suoi misteri, segreti e colpi di scena detteranno i tempi narrativi attraverso momenti di indagine, sospetti e ricerca. Tutto questo in un’epoca dove le convenzioni sono precise e il ton si staglia come un’ombra minacciosa, che pende come una spada di Damocle sulle teste di coloro che frequentavano gli ambienti dell’alta società, soprattutto per chi ha sangue nobile e responsabilità maggiori verso i membri della casata, presenti, passati e futuri. Lo scandalo è l’incubo peggiore, la disgrazia più temibile e pericolosa! In grado di sbranare e affossare la dignità, imprimendo il marchio della vergogna, fino a mandare in rovina, per poi lasciare una cicatrice indelebile sull’integrità della casata. Con il tempo è una macchia destinata a scolorire, ma quanti anni dovranno passare per essere considerati nuovamente degni della considerazione e del rispetto degli altri membri dell’alta società londinese? Lo sanno bene il Conte di Leighton, il fratello di Erasmus Montgomery, così come il suo amico, il Duca di Gilmore che allertati dalle intenzioni del bigamo, deciso a sposare un'altra donna, assoldano Owen, chi prima e chi dopo, nella speranza di impedirlo, approfittando della discrezione di quest’ultimo. Peccato che le loro precauzioni non servono a nulla, perchè ben presto si troveranno coinvolti in una situazione che rischia di avere conseguenze catastrofiche non soltanto per loro, ma anche per Abigail la prima moglie e Pippa la seconda, che diventeranno per i due uomini figure da proteggere, e per Celeste delle vere amiche, accomunate dallo stesso destino e da un futuro incerto. Una per tutte e tutte per una e sarà così, anche a dispetto dei sentimenti, perché la sorellanza che le lega diventa talmente forte da essere degna di protezione e messa al servizio della verità. Poi capirete cosa intendo…
"Sembra che siamo persone nettamente diverse per temperamento.» «E nell’aspetto» aggiunse lui. «Abigail ha i capelli scuri, Phillipa i riccioli biondi e tu hai quelle...» si schiarì la gola. «... bellissime ciocche ramate.» Celeste si sentì avvampare il viso."
Ma Owen e Celeste protetti da queste persone amiche e costretti a vivere, mi riferisco a Celeste e alle altre due mogli, in una sorta di esilio lontano dai salotti mondani, troveranno il modo di rapportarsi tra loro, alimentando e lasciando fluire l’attrazione incandescente che si sprigiona quando sono nella stessa stanza, per poi vivere ciò che sentono al di là delle regole e della buona creanza…si dice così, giusto? Owen è schiavo dei sensi e della donna che glieli infiamma, mentre Celeste, sull’onda di una nuova consapevolezza di se stessa, non ha più nessuna intenzione di rinunciare a quel lato bello della vita che non conosce e del quale non ha mai avuto sentore, intrappolata in una famiglia asfissiante e interessata principalmente al lato materiale, piuttosto che al benessere della figlia, che è stata costretta ad accettare un matrimonio combinato, ma non desiderato, così com’era consuetudine all’epoca.
"Ma non era lui a comandare, a quanto pareva, proprio come l’ultima volta. Lei gli avvolse le braccia intorno al collo, aprì la bocca, si fece esigente e lui fu troppo debole per non darle esattamente ciò che voleva. "
Sono le atmosfere ardenti che ci si aspetta, dopo aver letto la presentazione di Jess Michaels, un’autrice che “scrive romanzi d’amore storici con eroi super sexy ed eroine irriverenti che fanno di tutto per ottenere quello che vogliono senza stare ad aspettare.” Per questo motivo, chi è abituato a leggere Regency che si conformano rigidamente all'etichetta dell’epoca e a comportamenti consoni al ton, qui potranno scoprire che si tratta di un romanzo che strizza l’occhio allo storico, prendendosi diverse licenze, per aggiungere alla storia una dose di speziato, merito dell'innegabile seduzione delle ambientazioni regency e degli abiti d'epoca, con i loro bottoncini infiniti, le camiciole leggere, quasi trasparenti e con le spalline che scivolano nei momenti giusti, mentre patte irriverenti occhieggiano tentatrici... tutti elementi che rendono l’eros e i momenti hot, pregne delle affascinanti atmosfere del diciannovesimo secolo, capaci di sollecitare molte fantasie, le stesse alimentate dall’autrice che ha trovato in questa dimensione il suo posto preferito. Ed è lo stesso che lambisce anche chi legge, con i suoi personaggi maschili il più delle volte nobili, bellissimi, audaci e appassionati alle prese con eroine che, seppur timide e titubanti, al momento del dunque, sanno afferrare ciò che vogliono senza false ipocrisie.
"Ma quando fece per allontanarsi, per prendere le distanze, lei lo tirò più vicino. «Owen» sussurrò, e il suo respiro gli increspò le labbra perché lui era già proteso verso di lei, troppo vicino, troppo potente, troppo fuori controllo."
Questo è un assaggio di ciò che vi aspetta, perchè l’attrazione tra i due protagonisti è palpabile già dalle prime battute, per poi riverberarsi in un Regency dalle calde sfumature Spicy che fa da cornice alla drammatica vicenda narrata che mette in standby la dignità e l’onore dei vari personaggi che entreranno a far parte della storia, tutti accomunati da una stessa sorte, che inevitabilmente cambierà le loro vite. A tutto questo si aggiunge la tinta ombrosa regalata dalla suspense e dalle indagini, mentre si aggiungono chiare folate che hanno il sapore di emancipazione femminile, del rispetto delle diversità e dei gusti di ognuno. Celeste ha l'opportunità di evadere dal mondo ristretto in cui è cresciuta per affrontare un'altra realtà e fare nuove conoscenze, in un un momento in cui la vita sembra buttarla a terra. Invece, giorno dopo giorno acquisisce maggiore consapevolezza verso se stessa e il suo valore, soprattutto grazie all’incontro con Owen che le offrirà l’opportunità di scoprire le sue abilità anche in campo investigativo, tanto da arrivare a sfidarlo e fare di testa sua! (Quasi una novella suffragetta di molto in anticipo sui tempi, che vedranno proprio in Inghilterra la nascita dei primi moti a favore del movimento femminile) Ma Owen e Celeste sono soltanto amici, amanti o collaboratori? Quanto potrà accettare di essere soltanto questo e niente di più? Eppure il suo cuore, per quanto cerchi di tenerlo a freno, le suggerisce altre verità. E poi? E poi…Scopritelo leggendo perché vi ho già detto troppo!
"Voleva toccarlo, con la stessa naturalezza con cui Lena e Harriet cercavano sostegno l’una dall’altra. Invece, fece un respiro profondo."
“La Moglie Inaspettata” si è rivelata una lettura intrigante, maliziosa e d’effetto, raccontata attraverso uno stile narrativo molto scorrevole, gradevole e incisivo, grazie anche a una traduzione eccellente. La trama è articolata e ben strutturata, merito della presenza del lato investigativo e delle vicende ad esso collegate, che sono risultate interessanti e ben bilanciate rispetto alla storia d’amore e la trasformazione di Celeste, che è a mio giudizio, uno dei punti focali della storia, considerando la sua personalità che, con lo scorrere delle pagine, acquista contorni sempre più netti, passando attraverso un saliscendi emotivo, per poi diventare più centrata e multi sfaccettata. Owen invece, come personaggio ha forse subito una sopraffazione da parte della personalità di Celeste, che si è approfittata di lui e della sua gentilezza, rubandogli un po’ la scena. Ma lui è così, bello, gentile sorridente e disponibile, quindi perchè non avvantaggiarsene? L’unico neo, se così posso definirlo, perchè è attinente al mio gusto personale, ho sentito la mancanza di una maggiore sfumatura ironica, che avrebbe contribuito a stemperare la nota greve che, seppur attinente alla gravità dei fatti raccontati, diventa quasi una nebbia onnipresente che ingoia un pò’ tutto, pur giocandosela a pari merito con quella ardente che, insieme alla traccia suspense, costituiscono le frequenze sprigionate da La Moglie Inattesa.
"Lui sbatté le palpebre e guardò quel suo bel viso rivolto all'insù. Oh sì, era decisamente innamorato di questa donna. Disperatamente, completamente e irrimediabilmente innamorato."
Vi invito alla scoperta di Owen e Celeste perché sapranno conquistarvi con la loro storia d’amore, che tra un’indagine, un sospetto, un intrigo e un colpo di scena saprà sorprendervi. Aspetto di leggere la storia delle altre due mogli, Phillippa e Abigail che hanno degli ammiratori già apparsi in questo primo volume, entrambi bellissimi e decisamente sexy! Che possiamo farci? Ci tocca "sopportare"… Non possiamo certo dire a Jess Michaels di smetterla, giusto? (occhiolino) Buona lettura e alla prossima!
Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano
Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia ARC
November 12, 2021
5 Shining Stars!
Sometimes a book just looks at me and says, "Read me!" That is what this one did and I am so happy that I did.
Talk about bigamy! My word!
So we have bigamy (or is it trigamy for 3 wives? Yes, the dictionary says it is trigamy for 3 spouses at the same time), a murder, an amazing mystery for solving with many twists and turns, a beautiful romance with a bit of 'heat' and fascinating characters who bring this story to life.
It is so well written that I couldn't put it down at all and now I am wondering what the others in this series could possibly be about. Well, there is one way to find out. I need to read them.
I most definitely recommend this book. It is a story worth reading!
Sometimes a book just looks at me and says, "Read me!" That is what this one did and I am so happy that I did.
Talk about bigamy! My word!
So we have bigamy (or is it trigamy for 3 wives? Yes, the dictionary says it is trigamy for 3 spouses at the same time), a murder, an amazing mystery for solving with many twists and turns, a beautiful romance with a bit of 'heat' and fascinating characters who bring this story to life.
It is so well written that I couldn't put it down at all and now I am wondering what the others in this series could possibly be about. Well, there is one way to find out. I need to read them.
I most definitely recommend this book. It is a story worth reading!
March 9, 2021
This book sets up an interesting situation - a man married three separate women to gain access to their dowries, without them knowing about the others (and was attempting to court a fourth when he was murdered. His "wives" are discovered as part of an overall investigation and all of them could be a possible suspect in the murder.
Overall - it has the typical Jess Michaels flair for unusual situations and beautiful connections between the characters. Celeste was forced into marriage with a man she didn't love - for parental motivations that aren't 100% clear. I guess social climbing? He was the second son of an earl - but was only interested in Celeste's dowry. He subsequently all but abandoned her in a very run down house in the small village where she lived.
There were a couple of other things I found questionable - and maybe I shouldn't have - but they did throw me off. For one, I was surprised that Owen lived in a pretty sweet house with both a housekeeper, butler, and other staff. He must be one heck of an investigator! He definitely comes from an impoverished gentry situation - but still - I was impressed with how well he was doing. I also did not like the way the final drama in the book kicked off - not that I didn't expect drama between the main couple - but it there was kind of a TSTL sort of moment that just didn't work for me.
I really liked it and look forward to seeing how things play out with the rest of the characters involved.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Overall - it has the typical Jess Michaels flair for unusual situations and beautiful connections between the characters. Celeste was forced into marriage with a man she didn't love - for parental motivations that aren't 100% clear. I guess social climbing? He was the second son of an earl - but was only interested in Celeste's dowry. He subsequently all but abandoned her in a very run down house in the small village where she lived.
There were a couple of other things I found questionable - and maybe I shouldn't have - but they did throw me off. For one, I was surprised that Owen lived in a pretty sweet house with both a housekeeper, butler, and other staff. He must be one heck of an investigator! He definitely comes from an impoverished gentry situation - but still - I was impressed with how well he was doing. I also did not like the way the final drama in the book kicked off - not that I didn't expect drama between the main couple - but it there was kind of a TSTL sort of moment that just didn't work for me.
I really liked it and look forward to seeing how things play out with the rest of the characters involved.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
June 24, 2022
Owen Gregory first met Celeste Montgomery when he bought news of her husband’s death but worse he was a bigamist. In London Owen and Celeste work together to find the murderer. Celeste does not like to think the first 2 wife’s who she had become friends with are involved. Secrets are been kept but Owen and Celeste want a second chance at love. A steamy romance brings our two main characters together. An entertaining story that is the first in a series.
I was given an arc of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an arc of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2024
I libri rosa storici hanno un certo fascino. Sarà per il periodo storico, per gli abiti, per l’etichetta o per la società dell’epoca, o, molto più probabilmente, per l’evoluzione di una storia d’amore che percorre binari più articolati e rigidi rispetto ai libri rosa contemporanei.
Celeste, la protagonista di La moglie inattesa, viene costretta dai genitori a sposare Erasmus Montgomery, secondogenito di un conte londinese. Il suo non è un matrimonio d’amore che non le porta neppure un miglioramento sociale come sperato dall’arrivista madre, poiché resta a vivere a Twiddleport e in affitto in una casa fatiscente. Nel suo paese viene additata come quella strana, perché ama leggere, ed è una ragazza troppo indipendente rispetto alle altre. Quando le viene comunicato della morte del marito e che lei è la terza moglie, Celeste parte per Londra assieme all’investigatore Owen Gregory, per essere d’aiuto nelle indaggini.
Owen Gregory è stato incaricato dal Duca di Gilmore per delle ricerche su Erasmus che hanno portato a scoprire della sua bigamia, ma quando è stato trovato morto, viene scelto anche dal Conte di Leighton, il fratello maggiore di Erasmus, per individuare chi l’ha ucciso. Owen è affascinante quanto intelligente, galantuomo quanto riflessivo e, se prima di incontrare Celeste non aveva mai avvertito una sorta di legame, con lei prova sentimenti sconosciuti.
Tra Celeste e Owen si instaura immediatamente un’affinità intima che spesso è difficile trattenere, ignorando l’etichetta che impone certi atteggiamenti tra un uomo e una donna dell’epoca. Le loro menti intuitive, acute e attente ai particolari, con l’aggiunta dell’istinto di Celeste, li portano a collaborare nelle indagini e avvicinarsi sempre di più l’uno all’altro.
Celeste trova nelle altre due moglie delle sorelle con cui condividere sospetti, ipotesi e anche confidenze femminili.
Abigail, la prima moglie di Erasmus Montgomery, ha nobili origini e si è sposata per amore. Verso Celeste e Pippa dimostra un atteggiamento di sorella maggiore accogliente e gentile, è attenta ai loro bisogni, si dimostra protettiva senza attendere nulla in cambio. Insomma Abigail è quella che sistema le cose.
Pippa è la seconda moglie, quella più diretta nell’offrire una spalla su cui piangere e nel dare supporto. Anche lei ha spostato Erasmus per amore, nonostante notasse alcuni atteggiamenti ambigui. Forse lei, rispetto ad Abigail, è la moglie con cui Celeste ha più affinità.
Il Duca di Gilmore e il Conte di Leighton sono figure secondarie di rilievo per la gestione della parte investigativa, ma non determinanti – al momento – per la storia. Sono dei personaggi secondari che aiutano, ma non risultano determinati come invece lo possono essere le prime due moglie di Erasmus.
Per quanto la lettura sia stata scorrevole e le diverse situazioni abbiano alternato momenti di tensione a quelli di passione, ho trovato che il linguaggio utilizzato dalla maggior parte dei personaggi sia troppo moderno e non in linea con il periodo storico. Il libro è ambientato in un’epoca dove il Ton era alla base dell’educazione, dove c’era un codice non scritto di comportamento da rispettare nella società e nelle relazioni interpersonali. Posso usare la sospensione dell’incredulità per gli atteggiamenti di iniziativa di Celeste verso Owen (del resto è un romanzo rosa e l’amore può tutto), e per la sorrellanza che subito la lega alle altre due moglie di Erasmus, ma che dire della totale assenza della polizia in presenza di un evidente assassinio? Cioè a quei tempi esisteva la polizia e, siccome l’omicidio è di pubblico dominio, poiché riportato sui giornali, possibile che se ne occupi solo Owen che si avvale dell’appoggio di una ‘semplice donna’ come Celeste?
Al termine della lettura ho riflettuto su come considerare La moglie inattesa e mi è già capitato di leggere libri non allineati al periodo storico in cui sono ambientati, l’importante è essere inserito bene nel genere che, in questo caso, è il rosa. Se si legge il libro con questa intenzione La moglie inattesa risulterà piacevole, emozionante e passionale.
Lascio in ultimo una considerazione che ho apprezzato: la traduzione di Isabella Nanni, a cui va il mio plauso perché la fluidità narrativa è merito suo.
Celeste, la protagonista di La moglie inattesa, viene costretta dai genitori a sposare Erasmus Montgomery, secondogenito di un conte londinese. Il suo non è un matrimonio d’amore che non le porta neppure un miglioramento sociale come sperato dall’arrivista madre, poiché resta a vivere a Twiddleport e in affitto in una casa fatiscente. Nel suo paese viene additata come quella strana, perché ama leggere, ed è una ragazza troppo indipendente rispetto alle altre. Quando le viene comunicato della morte del marito e che lei è la terza moglie, Celeste parte per Londra assieme all’investigatore Owen Gregory, per essere d’aiuto nelle indaggini.
Owen Gregory è stato incaricato dal Duca di Gilmore per delle ricerche su Erasmus che hanno portato a scoprire della sua bigamia, ma quando è stato trovato morto, viene scelto anche dal Conte di Leighton, il fratello maggiore di Erasmus, per individuare chi l’ha ucciso. Owen è affascinante quanto intelligente, galantuomo quanto riflessivo e, se prima di incontrare Celeste non aveva mai avvertito una sorta di legame, con lei prova sentimenti sconosciuti.
Tra Celeste e Owen si instaura immediatamente un’affinità intima che spesso è difficile trattenere, ignorando l’etichetta che impone certi atteggiamenti tra un uomo e una donna dell’epoca. Le loro menti intuitive, acute e attente ai particolari, con l’aggiunta dell’istinto di Celeste, li portano a collaborare nelle indagini e avvicinarsi sempre di più l’uno all’altro.
Celeste trova nelle altre due moglie delle sorelle con cui condividere sospetti, ipotesi e anche confidenze femminili.
Abigail, la prima moglie di Erasmus Montgomery, ha nobili origini e si è sposata per amore. Verso Celeste e Pippa dimostra un atteggiamento di sorella maggiore accogliente e gentile, è attenta ai loro bisogni, si dimostra protettiva senza attendere nulla in cambio. Insomma Abigail è quella che sistema le cose.
Pippa è la seconda moglie, quella più diretta nell’offrire una spalla su cui piangere e nel dare supporto. Anche lei ha spostato Erasmus per amore, nonostante notasse alcuni atteggiamenti ambigui. Forse lei, rispetto ad Abigail, è la moglie con cui Celeste ha più affinità.
Il Duca di Gilmore e il Conte di Leighton sono figure secondarie di rilievo per la gestione della parte investigativa, ma non determinanti – al momento – per la storia. Sono dei personaggi secondari che aiutano, ma non risultano determinati come invece lo possono essere le prime due moglie di Erasmus.
Per quanto la lettura sia stata scorrevole e le diverse situazioni abbiano alternato momenti di tensione a quelli di passione, ho trovato che il linguaggio utilizzato dalla maggior parte dei personaggi sia troppo moderno e non in linea con il periodo storico. Il libro è ambientato in un’epoca dove il Ton era alla base dell’educazione, dove c’era un codice non scritto di comportamento da rispettare nella società e nelle relazioni interpersonali. Posso usare la sospensione dell’incredulità per gli atteggiamenti di iniziativa di Celeste verso Owen (del resto è un romanzo rosa e l’amore può tutto), e per la sorrellanza che subito la lega alle altre due moglie di Erasmus, ma che dire della totale assenza della polizia in presenza di un evidente assassinio? Cioè a quei tempi esisteva la polizia e, siccome l’omicidio è di pubblico dominio, poiché riportato sui giornali, possibile che se ne occupi solo Owen che si avvale dell’appoggio di una ‘semplice donna’ come Celeste?
Al termine della lettura ho riflettuto su come considerare La moglie inattesa e mi è già capitato di leggere libri non allineati al periodo storico in cui sono ambientati, l’importante è essere inserito bene nel genere che, in questo caso, è il rosa. Se si legge il libro con questa intenzione La moglie inattesa risulterà piacevole, emozionante e passionale.
Lascio in ultimo una considerazione che ho apprezzato: la traduzione di Isabella Nanni, a cui va il mio plauso perché la fluidità narrativa è merito suo.
March 7, 2021
The Unexpected Wife is the first book in The Three Mrs series by Jess Michaels. A new series by Ms. Michaels is always a cause for celebration; you are guaranteed an entertaining story plus all sorts of steamy goodness! If this first book is any indication, this one follows that trend. I loved the premise: three women find out they were married to a bigamist when he is murdered.
Celeste Montgomery was forced into a loveless marriage to Erasmus Montgomery by her horrid parents; at least he was barely home. Investigator Owen Gregory shows up while she is visiting her parents with astounding news: not only was Erasmus murdered, but he was a bigamist and Celeste was the third of three wives! Owen is investigating the murder, and of course all three wives are suspects. He is immediately drawn to the beautiful widow Celeste, and when he is able to determine she wasn't the killer, he invites her to London to see if the insightful woman can help him with his case. In London Celeste is introduced to the other murder suspects, who are the other two wives, Abigail and Pippa, the earl who is the brother of the deceased, and the duke who requested the investigation which started this whole mess. Celeste and Owen give in to the fierce passion they feel for each other; but will they survive to have the happy life they so richly deserve?
This was a totally fun idea for a series! Though the story was mainly serious, I did enjoy the humor when all three wives were introduced - when someone spoke to Mrs. Montgomery who, exactly, were they addressing? Celeste and Owen were great characters. I loved that there wasn't much strife between the two; we didn't have the usual huge secrets between the leads, or the fighting of feelings for each other. There was one instance of a large conflict, but it wasn't the entire story. Owen was a genuinely NICE man, which was a lovely change of pace. Celeste had been sheltered at home, and I so enjoyed watching her venture out into the world and become her own woman. Their intimacy was extremely combustible; I expected the fire sprinkler system to go off! I liked the friendship the three widows immediately developed, and Pippa and Abigail's interactions with the earl and duke who were involved with the case. I hope the next book comes out very quickly; I cannot wait to see which Mrs will find her HEA next!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed were entirely my own.
Celeste Montgomery was forced into a loveless marriage to Erasmus Montgomery by her horrid parents; at least he was barely home. Investigator Owen Gregory shows up while she is visiting her parents with astounding news: not only was Erasmus murdered, but he was a bigamist and Celeste was the third of three wives! Owen is investigating the murder, and of course all three wives are suspects. He is immediately drawn to the beautiful widow Celeste, and when he is able to determine she wasn't the killer, he invites her to London to see if the insightful woman can help him with his case. In London Celeste is introduced to the other murder suspects, who are the other two wives, Abigail and Pippa, the earl who is the brother of the deceased, and the duke who requested the investigation which started this whole mess. Celeste and Owen give in to the fierce passion they feel for each other; but will they survive to have the happy life they so richly deserve?
This was a totally fun idea for a series! Though the story was mainly serious, I did enjoy the humor when all three wives were introduced - when someone spoke to Mrs. Montgomery who, exactly, were they addressing? Celeste and Owen were great characters. I loved that there wasn't much strife between the two; we didn't have the usual huge secrets between the leads, or the fighting of feelings for each other. There was one instance of a large conflict, but it wasn't the entire story. Owen was a genuinely NICE man, which was a lovely change of pace. Celeste had been sheltered at home, and I so enjoyed watching her venture out into the world and become her own woman. Their intimacy was extremely combustible; I expected the fire sprinkler system to go off! I liked the friendship the three widows immediately developed, and Pippa and Abigail's interactions with the earl and duke who were involved with the case. I hope the next book comes out very quickly; I cannot wait to see which Mrs will find her HEA next!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed were entirely my own.
May 2, 2024
Recensione a cura del blog “Libri Magnetici" by Milly
La moglie inattesa, un nuovo romanzo storico di una scrittrice che seguo e ammiro.
Una storia intricata e diversa dai soliti romance storici. Due protagonisti che si incontrano per caso, due storie che si incrociano a causa di un incidente che lascerà Celeste con l’amaro in bocca.
Celeste è sposata, o almeno credeva di esserlo, perché, grazie all’arrivo di Owen, apprende la realtà della sua condizione. L’uomo che ha sposato in realtà ha altre due mogli, quindi lei effettivamente non è sposata. Celeste non crede a questa nuova condizione, è turbata da ciò che la vicenda possa portare nella sua vita, in fondo lei vive in un piccolo paesino.
Le piaceva molto quell’uomo che era entrato nella sua vita come un tornado e aveva stravolto tutto.
Owen, costretto ad affrontare questa storia, non si aspetta di incontrare una donna così bella ed intelligente. Ne resta ammaliato, e di conseguenza decide di portarla con sé a Londra per risolvere questo caso e capire chi ha ucciso il famigerato marito.
Celeste, inizialmente spaventata da ciò che potrebbe portare la sua visita a Londra, decide di seguire l’istinto e partire. Lì sarà accolta dalle due altre mogli che si mostreranno amichevoli nonostante la situazione.
La voleva. In quel momento lo capì in un modo che non aveva mai provato con nessun altro uomo prima. La voleva, anche se si erano appena conosciuti e lui era venuto per mandare in frantumi il suo mondo.
Nella storia conosciamo il fratello del defunto e un amico, colui che ha dato vita a tutto, poiché aveva scoperto che oltre alle tre mogli voleva conquistare sua sorella e renderla quarta moglie. Da lì tanti retroscena, tanti tasselli da mettere insieme per arrivare alla conclusione della vicenda. Nel frattempo Celeste e Owen avranno la possibilità di conoscersi e frequentarsi nonostante aleggi tra loro ciò che è successo.
Una storia intrigante e passionale da scoprire, una scrittura scorrevole e lineare, complimenti alla scrittrice per averci fatto conoscere i due protagonisti, con la speranza di avere presto tra le mani il secondo capitolo della serie.
Buona lettura.
L’unica cosa di cui mi pentirei sarebbe andarmene. È stato tutto terribile, Owen... tutto tranne te. Se mi vuoi, se non mi sbaglio, se senti la stessa potente attrazione che sento io, allora dammi qualcosa di bello. Voglio solo provare qualcosa di bello.
quattro petali
La moglie inattesa, un nuovo romanzo storico di una scrittrice che seguo e ammiro.
Una storia intricata e diversa dai soliti romance storici. Due protagonisti che si incontrano per caso, due storie che si incrociano a causa di un incidente che lascerà Celeste con l’amaro in bocca.
Celeste è sposata, o almeno credeva di esserlo, perché, grazie all’arrivo di Owen, apprende la realtà della sua condizione. L’uomo che ha sposato in realtà ha altre due mogli, quindi lei effettivamente non è sposata. Celeste non crede a questa nuova condizione, è turbata da ciò che la vicenda possa portare nella sua vita, in fondo lei vive in un piccolo paesino.
Le piaceva molto quell’uomo che era entrato nella sua vita come un tornado e aveva stravolto tutto.
Owen, costretto ad affrontare questa storia, non si aspetta di incontrare una donna così bella ed intelligente. Ne resta ammaliato, e di conseguenza decide di portarla con sé a Londra per risolvere questo caso e capire chi ha ucciso il famigerato marito.
Celeste, inizialmente spaventata da ciò che potrebbe portare la sua visita a Londra, decide di seguire l’istinto e partire. Lì sarà accolta dalle due altre mogli che si mostreranno amichevoli nonostante la situazione.
La voleva. In quel momento lo capì in un modo che non aveva mai provato con nessun altro uomo prima. La voleva, anche se si erano appena conosciuti e lui era venuto per mandare in frantumi il suo mondo.
Nella storia conosciamo il fratello del defunto e un amico, colui che ha dato vita a tutto, poiché aveva scoperto che oltre alle tre mogli voleva conquistare sua sorella e renderla quarta moglie. Da lì tanti retroscena, tanti tasselli da mettere insieme per arrivare alla conclusione della vicenda. Nel frattempo Celeste e Owen avranno la possibilità di conoscersi e frequentarsi nonostante aleggi tra loro ciò che è successo.
Una storia intrigante e passionale da scoprire, una scrittura scorrevole e lineare, complimenti alla scrittrice per averci fatto conoscere i due protagonisti, con la speranza di avere presto tra le mani il secondo capitolo della serie.
Buona lettura.
L’unica cosa di cui mi pentirei sarebbe andarmene. È stato tutto terribile, Owen... tutto tranne te. Se mi vuoi, se non mi sbaglio, se senti la stessa potente attrazione che sento io, allora dammi qualcosa di bello. Voglio solo provare qualcosa di bello.
quattro petali
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