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Wagers and Wallflowers #6
Tempt Me, If You Dare
If there is ever a time to be wicked, it is when a lady is considered an unmarriageable wallflower…
Firmly regulated on the shelf as a wallflower, Miss Felicity Harrington has little hope for her future. Unwilling to remain as a lady’s companion forever, she accepted a devilish earl’s outrageous offer that she pretends to be his fiancée for a few weeks.
Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham, will only marry when he is ready. To escape his family’s frequent ridiculous attempts at forcing his hand, it seemed a brilliant plan to invent a fake fiancée until his grandmother’s waning health forces him to produce his mysterious bride-to-be. Despite tender touches, long walks, and arousing kisses with the delightful Miss Harrington, Phineas knows everything between them is merely a pretense.
Little did he suspect that his entire world was about to be complicated by one wickedly alluring wallflower and a scheming matchmaking grandmother.
Firmly regulated on the shelf as a wallflower, Miss Felicity Harrington has little hope for her future. Unwilling to remain as a lady’s companion forever, she accepted a devilish earl’s outrageous offer that she pretends to be his fiancée for a few weeks.
Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham, will only marry when he is ready. To escape his family’s frequent ridiculous attempts at forcing his hand, it seemed a brilliant plan to invent a fake fiancée until his grandmother’s waning health forces him to produce his mysterious bride-to-be. Despite tender touches, long walks, and arousing kisses with the delightful Miss Harrington, Phineas knows everything between them is merely a pretense.
Little did he suspect that his entire world was about to be complicated by one wickedly alluring wallflower and a scheming matchmaking grandmother.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2022
529 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Clarke
155 books319 followersAlyssa Clarke writes steamy Regency Historical Romances featuring swoon-worthy heroes and sassy, sometimes unconventional heroines! Her debut novel, Love Me, If You Dare, came to her in a dream as a hot, fun enemy to lover romance where she played the leading lady who fell in love with a duke who looked remarkably like Henry Cavill.
When not writing, Alyssa enjoys hiking, games/movie night, with her husband and two beautiful children, and her Siberian Husky, Cronus. She is a lover of wine, cheesecake, and more wine.
When not writing, Alyssa enjoys hiking, games/movie night, with her husband and two beautiful children, and her Siberian Husky, Cronus. She is a lover of wine, cheesecake, and more wine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 9, 2024
3.5 stars. An enjoyable, sweet, and sexy romance.
- fake fiance
- forced proximity
- class difference (Earl and a lady’s companion or governess)
- plenty of steamy scenes, not all in the bedroom 😏😏😏
- a bit of angst
I can’t wait to read more from this series.
- fake fiance
- forced proximity
- class difference (Earl and a lady’s companion or governess)
- plenty of steamy scenes, not all in the bedroom 😏😏😏
- a bit of angst
I can’t wait to read more from this series.
April 7, 2022
FOUND MY NEW FAVORITE AUTHORRRR
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR LIGHTHEARTED, FLUFFY, LOW ANGST, GORILLA GRIPPING SPICY SMUT, MINDLESS ENTERTAINMENT BRAIN CANDY THIS IS FOR YOU BABYYY
I LOVE SMUT ROMANCE SO MUCH THERE ARE NO WORDS FOR HOW MUCH JOY THEY BRING ME
IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR LIGHTHEARTED, FLUFFY, LOW ANGST, GORILLA GRIPPING SPICY SMUT, MINDLESS ENTERTAINMENT BRAIN CANDY THIS IS FOR YOU BABYYY
I LOVE SMUT ROMANCE SO MUCH THERE ARE NO WORDS FOR HOW MUCH JOY THEY BRING ME
May 4, 2022
Alyssa Clark is a must read author. The chemistry, character development, and story progression is all on point. She is able to write strong and intelligent heroines that fit the time period.
February 21, 2022
Firmly regulated on the shelf as a wallflower, Miss Felicity Harrington has little hope for her future. Unwilling to remain as a lady’s companion forever, she accepted a devilish earl’s outrageous offer that she pretends to be his fiancée for a few weeks. Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham, will only marry when he is ready. To escape his family’s frequent ridiculous attempts at forcing his hand, it seemed a brilliant plan to invent a fake fiancée until his grandmother’s waning health forces him to produce his mysterious bride-to-be. Despite tender touches, long walks, and arousing kisses with the delightful Miss Harrington.
The sixth book in this delightful series & what a fun entertaining read it was. I loved both Phineas & Felicity, their verbal banter was witty & had me smiling, their chemistry was hot. Throw in a ferret & a match making grandmother & enjoyment is guaranteed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The sixth book in this delightful series & what a fun entertaining read it was. I loved both Phineas & Felicity, their verbal banter was witty & had me smiling, their chemistry was hot. Throw in a ferret & a match making grandmother & enjoyment is guaranteed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 10, 2022
Fake engagement 💍
I ❤️ fake engagements! This one was steamy fairly early on in the book, too!
I enjoyed following the characters stories and how they stuck with each other and confronted issues as they came along (mostly!). I think it takes a lot of dedication on the author's part to keep a story moving and keep a reader interested and invested in the outcome for the couple without resorting to long separations and unnecessary misunderstandings.
This entire series has been fun to read so far, and I'm looking forward to the next book!
I ❤️ fake engagements! This one was steamy fairly early on in the book, too!
I enjoyed following the characters stories and how they stuck with each other and confronted issues as they came along (mostly!). I think it takes a lot of dedication on the author's part to keep a story moving and keep a reader interested and invested in the outcome for the couple without resorting to long separations and unnecessary misunderstandings.
This entire series has been fun to read so far, and I'm looking forward to the next book!
April 12, 2024
Happy happy happy!
March 23, 2022
I was really looking forward to this one but somehow it left me wishing for more.
February 13, 2022
This was a fun and sexy read. It was a bit of a farce as well, especially the ending. Loved the plot and characters. The funniest part I loved was when Felicity was tipsy and blurted out the word 'cock' in front of Phineas and his family (as in his mother and grandmother). A lovely HEA. It was a pleasure to read this short story. 4☆
February 8, 2022
Forgiveness
Love books where the TDH noble falls for the wallflower. All the ladies of the club are outstanding. Enjoy how they buck against the Ton and traditions. Phineas and Felicity were great characters. Like how their love blossomed. Would recommend this book to a friend.
Love books where the TDH noble falls for the wallflower. All the ladies of the club are outstanding. Enjoy how they buck against the Ton and traditions. Phineas and Felicity were great characters. Like how their love blossomed. Would recommend this book to a friend.
February 19, 2022
Phineas Lambton, Earl of Wyndham, is need of a fiancé named Jane. His Nanna is in bad health and pushing him to get married. Making up a fiancé and her background puts him in a tight spot, now that his Nanna wants to meet her. Felicity Harrington could be his Jane. Working out the conditions between them makes it seem more real. Soon Felicity is traveling to his country estate to meet his family. The spark becomes an inferno of passion between them. His Nanna takes advantage and soon there are plans for a wedding, but can Felicity trust Phineas really wants this marriage. A really nice romance with a lot of steam. Another romance with a dare from the ladies at 48 Berkeley Square.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2022
Mungkin buat mengengal Felicity harus baca buku 2 sih, tp gw gak baca jg tetep asik ehehehehe
setting ketemu pertama kali itu sebelum buku 2, Felicity dari toko buku terus keujanan, pas mau jatuh di jalan ditolongin sama lord ganteng..trs dipayungin sampai rumah sambil ngobrol, ternyata yg nolongin itu adalah Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham. Habis itu gak ada interaksi si selama beberapa bulan.. Felicity cuma merhatiin masnya dari jauh doang. Sampai..
Ah gw pengen bacaan sejenis ini lagi huhuhuhuhu
setting ketemu pertama kali itu sebelum buku 2, Felicity dari toko buku terus keujanan, pas mau jatuh di jalan ditolongin sama lord ganteng..trs dipayungin sampai rumah sambil ngobrol, ternyata yg nolongin itu adalah Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham. Habis itu gak ada interaksi si selama beberapa bulan.. Felicity cuma merhatiin masnya dari jauh doang. Sampai..
Ah gw pengen bacaan sejenis ini lagi huhuhuhuhu
August 18, 2024
A Chance Encounter, a Forced Engagement
Hero and the Imposter presents a familiar romantic trope with a twist. Felicity's chance meeting with Phineas leaves a lasting impression, but unfortunately, he's oblivious. When his grandmother's health declines, Phineas is forced to fabricate a fiancée, leading him back to Felicity. While the premise is intriguing, the execution feels somewhat lackluster. The romance develops swiftly, and the plot lacks depth. A pleasant read overall, but it doesn't leave a strong impact.
Hero and the Imposter presents a familiar romantic trope with a twist. Felicity's chance meeting with Phineas leaves a lasting impression, but unfortunately, he's oblivious. When his grandmother's health declines, Phineas is forced to fabricate a fiancée, leading him back to Felicity. While the premise is intriguing, the execution feels somewhat lackluster. The romance develops swiftly, and the plot lacks depth. A pleasant read overall, but it doesn't leave a strong impact.
January 10, 2023
Short and fun story. Felicity agrees to be Phineas' pretend fiancée in a fake engagement so Phineas can satisfy his grandmother's last wishes. Eventually, they realize that there are feelings between them.
I really liked Nanna; I'm imagining myself doing something like that to my descendants. 😂
I really liked Nanna; I'm imagining myself doing something like that to my descendants. 😂
October 7, 2022
Felicity e Phineas
A melhor história até agora.
Ele a contrata p fingir ser sua noiva, por causa da avó q diz estar morrendo
Finalmente a autora desenrolou um enredo de forma interessante.
A melhor história até agora.
Ele a contrata p fingir ser sua noiva, por causa da avó q diz estar morrendo
Finalmente a autora desenrolou um enredo de forma interessante.
May 19, 2023
Fun and incredibly sweet with some nice spicy scenes! A good addition to the series! Worth reading! 4 stars
April 2, 2022
This was such a fun read. I love this series, and the author's writing is well done!
Meet Felicity (Perdie's companion from Marry Me, If You Dare) and Phineas, the Earl of Wyndham, and the mayhem that ensues. Phineas's sneaky grand-mother wants to see him wed, and his solution to getting just a little bit of peace is to invent a fiancé named Jane. All goes well until Nanna is ill and looks to be on death's door: she needs to meet Jane before she leaves them all. Enter a desperate Phineas who chooses Felicity to be Jane. Felicity is in need of money (she and her mother live only as companions and are on their last legs financially), agrees to play his fiancé for a few weeks. And then the fun begins.
This is the 6th book in the series, and though you don't have to read the other books to enjoy this one, I do encourage you to do so: they are so worth it. The perfect escape!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Meet Felicity (Perdie's companion from Marry Me, If You Dare) and Phineas, the Earl of Wyndham, and the mayhem that ensues. Phineas's sneaky grand-mother wants to see him wed, and his solution to getting just a little bit of peace is to invent a fiancé named Jane. All goes well until Nanna is ill and looks to be on death's door: she needs to meet Jane before she leaves them all. Enter a desperate Phineas who chooses Felicity to be Jane. Felicity is in need of money (she and her mother live only as companions and are on their last legs financially), agrees to play his fiancé for a few weeks. And then the fun begins.
This is the 6th book in the series, and though you don't have to read the other books to enjoy this one, I do encourage you to do so: they are so worth it. The perfect escape!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2022
🎭 Tempt me, if you Dare 🎭
Wagers and Wallflowers Book 6
✒️ Alyssa Clarke
https://www.facebook.com/alyssaclarke...
Release Date 02/05/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V4B4MW6/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
If there is ever a time to be wicked, it is when a lady is considered an unmarriageable wallflower… Firmly regulated on the shelf as a wallflower, Miss Felicity Harrington has little hope for her future. Unwilling to remain as a lady’s companion forever, she accepted a devilish earl’s outrageous offer that she pretends to be his fiancée for a few weeks. Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham, will only marry when he is ready. To escape his family’s frequent ridiculous attempts at forcing his hand, it seemed a brilliant plan to invent a fake fiancée until his grandmother’s waning health forces him to produce his mysterious bride-to-be. Despite tender touches, long walks, and arousing kisses with the delightful Miss Harrington, Phineas knows everything between them is merely a pretense. Little did he suspect that his entire world was about to be complicated by one wickedly alluring wallflower and a scheming matchmaking grandmother.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his scheme to extract himself from a trap of his own making lead to more than he expected….
I think the author is quickly becoming one of my favorites, she weaves intricate tales with steam, wickedness and humor, bringing to life flawed characters but ones we loves to love.
And this new story does not disappoint.
Felicity wants more than the hand life dealt to her. So despite doing with her circumstances, when an opportunity lands at her feet, she would be silly to let it passes as it would change she and her mother’s prospects.
Phineas is fun and determined to remain a bachelor, so much he made up a fiancée to refrain his scheming kin from trapping him with any eligible miss. Yet now he needs this fictional betrothed to come to life.
This was one more enjoyable read, from the main couple frankness, their witty banters, their scorching hot chemistry to the conspiring dowager, and of course Phineas hilarious talks with Oskar.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 hot hot hot
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CZwiY7Kj...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
Wagers and Wallflowers Book 6
✒️ Alyssa Clarke
https://www.facebook.com/alyssaclarke...
Release Date 02/05/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08V4B4MW6/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
If there is ever a time to be wicked, it is when a lady is considered an unmarriageable wallflower… Firmly regulated on the shelf as a wallflower, Miss Felicity Harrington has little hope for her future. Unwilling to remain as a lady’s companion forever, she accepted a devilish earl’s outrageous offer that she pretends to be his fiancée for a few weeks. Phineas Lambton, the Earl of Wyndham, will only marry when he is ready. To escape his family’s frequent ridiculous attempts at forcing his hand, it seemed a brilliant plan to invent a fake fiancée until his grandmother’s waning health forces him to produce his mysterious bride-to-be. Despite tender touches, long walks, and arousing kisses with the delightful Miss Harrington, Phineas knows everything between them is merely a pretense. Little did he suspect that his entire world was about to be complicated by one wickedly alluring wallflower and a scheming matchmaking grandmother.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will his scheme to extract himself from a trap of his own making lead to more than he expected….
I think the author is quickly becoming one of my favorites, she weaves intricate tales with steam, wickedness and humor, bringing to life flawed characters but ones we loves to love.
And this new story does not disappoint.
Felicity wants more than the hand life dealt to her. So despite doing with her circumstances, when an opportunity lands at her feet, she would be silly to let it passes as it would change she and her mother’s prospects.
Phineas is fun and determined to remain a bachelor, so much he made up a fiancée to refrain his scheming kin from trapping him with any eligible miss. Yet now he needs this fictional betrothed to come to life.
This was one more enjoyable read, from the main couple frankness, their witty banters, their scorching hot chemistry to the conspiring dowager, and of course Phineas hilarious talks with Oskar.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 hot hot hot
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CZwiY7Kj...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
February 20, 2022
I have enjoyed the books of this series and this one for me was one of the better ones.
The storyline is one that has been done lots before and is predictable but what set this one apart I felt was the steamy connection between the two characters and a pivotal moment right before the wedding.
Loved the connection between Felicity and Phineas, I liked Phin's character and his generous heart. The nanna is a great addition and there are some great scenes with her. The steaminess is hot in this book! I liked that Felicity wasn't a shrinking violet and that she doesn't come from a typical background. Oskar was a nice touch too and I would have liked more of him in the story.
**Spoiler***
The pivotal moment for me that changed this book from being predictable to awesome was right after Felicity confesses to Phin the morning of their wedding. He storms out only to take a moment in the hall and compose himself then goes back into the room. I loved this moment. It showed such depth of character to actually stop and think before striking out in anger and it proved his love for her and hers for him. Thanks Alyssa Clarke for writing that scene in the way that you did.
If I get nit-picky about things in this book I'd have to say the biggest for me was the lack of what Felicity thought about Phineas in the beginning. I would have liked more of a build-up to that she was attracted to him and had been watching him from afar for some time. With the very first love scene, she seemed to become wanton all of a sudden and it wasn't until later that we clue into that she's kinda had a crush on him for some time. This needed to be in the beginning because the scene didn't fit her character.
I also felt since this series deals with the wagers and dares of the ladies of 48 Berkley Square that we needed more from that group, more about what Felicity's dare/wager actually was. More use of the knowledge and skills that the ladies learned from their group. It seems every other book has references and more interaction with the ladies but this one did not.
Overall I do recommend this book simply for a cute love story, steamy passion, and a good storyline.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
The storyline is one that has been done lots before and is predictable but what set this one apart I felt was the steamy connection between the two characters and a pivotal moment right before the wedding.
Loved the connection between Felicity and Phineas, I liked Phin's character and his generous heart. The nanna is a great addition and there are some great scenes with her. The steaminess is hot in this book! I liked that Felicity wasn't a shrinking violet and that she doesn't come from a typical background. Oskar was a nice touch too and I would have liked more of him in the story.
**Spoiler***
The pivotal moment for me that changed this book from being predictable to awesome was right after Felicity confesses to Phin the morning of their wedding. He storms out only to take a moment in the hall and compose himself then goes back into the room. I loved this moment. It showed such depth of character to actually stop and think before striking out in anger and it proved his love for her and hers for him. Thanks Alyssa Clarke for writing that scene in the way that you did.
If I get nit-picky about things in this book I'd have to say the biggest for me was the lack of what Felicity thought about Phineas in the beginning. I would have liked more of a build-up to that she was attracted to him and had been watching him from afar for some time. With the very first love scene, she seemed to become wanton all of a sudden and it wasn't until later that we clue into that she's kinda had a crush on him for some time. This needed to be in the beginning because the scene didn't fit her character.
I also felt since this series deals with the wagers and dares of the ladies of 48 Berkley Square that we needed more from that group, more about what Felicity's dare/wager actually was. More use of the knowledge and skills that the ladies learned from their group. It seems every other book has references and more interaction with the ladies but this one did not.
Overall I do recommend this book simply for a cute love story, steamy passion, and a good storyline.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2022
Starring Felicity “Jane” Harrington and Phineas Olivier Lambton, Earl of Wyndham.
Tropes: Fake Betrothal/Engagement, Matchmaking Family.
Oh my!! This book made my heart so happy!! I love seeing Phineas and Felicity’s relationship go from fake to real. I love that these two took the time to get to know each other in the midst of their deception. And I laughed over their negotiating skills… and when Felicity got tipsy on whiskey. Thoroughly and utterly enjoyable… and I ugly cried AF, it was THAT wonderful.
Alyssa Clarke is firmly on my keeper shelf. She writes stories that punches me in the feels. Many a nights I’ve spent with book insomnia because I had to keep on reading past my bedtime. Totally worth it!! Another winner by the amazing Alyssa Clarke!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My Star Rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be reading this story over and over and over again!!
Tropes: Fake Betrothal/Engagement, Matchmaking Family.
Oh my!! This book made my heart so happy!! I love seeing Phineas and Felicity’s relationship go from fake to real. I love that these two took the time to get to know each other in the midst of their deception. And I laughed over their negotiating skills… and when Felicity got tipsy on whiskey. Thoroughly and utterly enjoyable… and I ugly cried AF, it was THAT wonderful.
Alyssa Clarke is firmly on my keeper shelf. She writes stories that punches me in the feels. Many a nights I’ve spent with book insomnia because I had to keep on reading past my bedtime. Totally worth it!! Another winner by the amazing Alyssa Clarke!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My Star Rating: 5 stars
Ugly cried AF. Major book hangover. Characters and storyline were freaken amazeballs. Made me wanna hug the author for writing a book that gave me all the feels!! Will definitely be reading this story over and over and over again!!
April 27, 2024
Another gem!
This was another great tale in this series. I love the author’s writing and storytelling. This story was a fun tale of a spinster (Felicity) who is plain and on the shelf. She meets a dashing Phineas who needs a fake fiancé. As she embarks on a new acting career as his fake fiancee, they both find they are more compatible than they realized.
This was a great book. Plenty of heart and warmth to go along with the steam.
This was another great tale in this series. I love the author’s writing and storytelling. This story was a fun tale of a spinster (Felicity) who is plain and on the shelf. She meets a dashing Phineas who needs a fake fiancé. As she embarks on a new acting career as his fake fiancee, they both find they are more compatible than they realized.
This was a great book. Plenty of heart and warmth to go along with the steam.
February 27, 2022
The sixth book in the Wagers and Wallflowers series. Miss Felicity Harrington and Phineas Olivier Lambton, Earl of Wyndham and his pet ferret Oskar's story. the story is well written and held my interest until the end. So many little white lies. The story was well worth reading and I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2022
ok read this book and then immediately forgot i read this book. vaguely remember being bored...?
November 11, 2022
Phineas & Felicity (his Jane). He's an eligible bachelor and sick of his mom and grandmother and sisters all bugging him about getting married and settling down. So he told them that he was engaged to a country girl with no connections. They had never met her because she was at her parents home caring for her ailing father. Seems reasonable that a wealthy, good-looking, very sought after eligible bachelor peer of the ton would not only fall for but get engaged to a plain country mouse, Jane. Well, no shocker but Jane doesn't exist.
Guessing that she didn't exist his grandmother starts feigning a dying illness. To keep her healthy (Dr was in on the rouse) she wanted to meet his fiancé. If he tells her that she doesn't exist it will not be good for her health so he has to find his fiancé.
Having met months earlier in the rain, he sees Felicity at a ball. Despite being a Perdie's chaperone and a daughter of a Baron she was still considered in between a member of the ton and a servant. Having no dowry or connections she wasn't really sought after on the marriage mart. At the ball they run into each other in the garden and they seem to be getting along. He tells her about his grandmother's illness and his lie and asks her to play the role of his Jane and meet his family in exchange for 5K pounds (which would allow her and her mother to buy a small cottage and live without needing someone to help support them). Knowing she is fully on the shelf and wanting to take care of her mother and herself she agrees. To pull off the rouse they need to have the chemistry to make it believable meaning kisses were needed. They negotiate 2 kisses per week (1 private and 1 public).
She meets his family and they are shocked. They didn't think she existed and she fit his description to a T. They end up loving her because she's kind, caring, and loving towards Phineas (BTW - I hate his name). They keep trying to get them to set a date and it was moving slowly so G-ma feigns a faint. Dr shows up and tells them she's not doing well. She tells Phineas that her dying wish is to see him married. Not wanting to disappoint he seeks out Felicity. She was on her way to read to his g-ma and g-ma fell asleep and so did Felicity in a nearby chair. She is awoken when his mother comes in and Felicity finds out that her illness is all faked in an effort to settle Phineas down. Knowing this but told not to tell him (out of fear that it would cause a family rift) she holds her tongue. Phineas finds her and proposes to her. Granted up until this they did have amazing chemistry from their kisses and wanted each other (so didn't hold back and ended up sleeping together) so while the circumstances weren't great them as a couple was a good thing. Loving him and rationalizing that he loved her too she doesn't tell him and accepts his proposal.
Wedding day and she can't in good conscience marry on a lie, she goes to him and tells him about his mother and grandmother's rouse and that g-ma isn't sick at all. He gets angry and tells her he is calling off the wedding. She breaks down and is crying. His anger subsides and he can't imagine not having her with him. They were genuine with each other and they fell in love. He goes to her and apologizes for being so rash and decides to play a joke on his mother & g-ma. He goes in the chapel and tells them that he knows and is calling off the wedding. He's angry and going to go to Scotland for a while until he can calm down and return. They are devastated but Felicity walks into the church and says she can't go along with his get even lie. He had planned to go to Scotland with Felicity and marry her there then come back in a year when she was pregnant. They had a wedding instead.
This wasn't my favorite in the series but it wasn't awful. You got the feels (sigh) and the awesome chemistry and a storyline that moved along. I wouldn't reread but also didn't hate it.
Guessing that she didn't exist his grandmother starts feigning a dying illness. To keep her healthy (Dr was in on the rouse) she wanted to meet his fiancé. If he tells her that she doesn't exist it will not be good for her health so he has to find his fiancé.
Having met months earlier in the rain, he sees Felicity at a ball. Despite being a Perdie's chaperone and a daughter of a Baron she was still considered in between a member of the ton and a servant. Having no dowry or connections she wasn't really sought after on the marriage mart. At the ball they run into each other in the garden and they seem to be getting along. He tells her about his grandmother's illness and his lie and asks her to play the role of his Jane and meet his family in exchange for 5K pounds (which would allow her and her mother to buy a small cottage and live without needing someone to help support them). Knowing she is fully on the shelf and wanting to take care of her mother and herself she agrees. To pull off the rouse they need to have the chemistry to make it believable meaning kisses were needed. They negotiate 2 kisses per week (1 private and 1 public).
She meets his family and they are shocked. They didn't think she existed and she fit his description to a T. They end up loving her because she's kind, caring, and loving towards Phineas (BTW - I hate his name). They keep trying to get them to set a date and it was moving slowly so G-ma feigns a faint. Dr shows up and tells them she's not doing well. She tells Phineas that her dying wish is to see him married. Not wanting to disappoint he seeks out Felicity. She was on her way to read to his g-ma and g-ma fell asleep and so did Felicity in a nearby chair. She is awoken when his mother comes in and Felicity finds out that her illness is all faked in an effort to settle Phineas down. Knowing this but told not to tell him (out of fear that it would cause a family rift) she holds her tongue. Phineas finds her and proposes to her. Granted up until this they did have amazing chemistry from their kisses and wanted each other (so didn't hold back and ended up sleeping together) so while the circumstances weren't great them as a couple was a good thing. Loving him and rationalizing that he loved her too she doesn't tell him and accepts his proposal.
Wedding day and she can't in good conscience marry on a lie, she goes to him and tells him about his mother and grandmother's rouse and that g-ma isn't sick at all. He gets angry and tells her he is calling off the wedding. She breaks down and is crying. His anger subsides and he can't imagine not having her with him. They were genuine with each other and they fell in love. He goes to her and apologizes for being so rash and decides to play a joke on his mother & g-ma. He goes in the chapel and tells them that he knows and is calling off the wedding. He's angry and going to go to Scotland for a while until he can calm down and return. They are devastated but Felicity walks into the church and says she can't go along with his get even lie. He had planned to go to Scotland with Felicity and marry her there then come back in a year when she was pregnant. They had a wedding instead.
This wasn't my favorite in the series but it wasn't awful. You got the feels (sigh) and the awesome chemistry and a storyline that moved along. I wouldn't reread but also didn't hate it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2022
I've read the previous entries in this series, and although they have enjoyable aspects, there are always things keeping them from being 4 star reads for me. The writer's style is at times unpolished and could use a final edit for clarity/word usage. The anachronistic behavior is a biggie, especially glaring here because this is more a character-driven than plot-driven book. The MC's simply don't behave the way an unmarried earl and a ladies companion would have during the Regency period. Yes, their banter is fun-- albeit too modern--but their relationship becomes sexual startlingly quickly and feels rushed.
By the last handful of chapters, it's noticeable that characterization is lacking as well. The H is a sort-of-arrogant quasi-rogue who hasn't had sex in a year. He's dragging his feet about marriage, doesn't believe in love, etc., but we don't know why. Other than food and sex (and his pet ferret) it's hard to determine what his passions are. He's almost quirky, but not quite. The h plays the pawn; she's adamant she'll only allow a certain number of kisses from H as part of their agreement, then quickly caves. She refuses to become H's mistress, but that's basically what happens during the time she spends with H's family. They never discuss how their break-up is going to be orchestrated or what should happen if she accidentally becomes pregnant. H is frequently with her in her room, outside, or in the library unchaperoned. Ironically, at the very times she should be trying to impress and at least pretend to get to know H's family, she hides out in her room alone. Wouldn't this have been a red flag to H's relatives? It's glaringly unrealistic that his family didn't bother to research hers. The wrap-up is cute but sudden, and the H's bipolar behavior is another indication that the author wants to save him from becoming a stereotype, but doesn't know how to finesse it.
Additionally, the secondary characters are barely developed. The h's mom seems interesting, is having a flirtation with a gentleman, but that's never mentioned again. The H's sisters could have been much better fleshed out, if only there had been more scenes between them and the MC's. And the Ladies Club that the h is (sort of) a member barely features here.
Bottom line: good chemistry between the MC's and lighthearted humor aren't enough to elevate this entry in the series to a must-read.
By the last handful of chapters, it's noticeable that characterization is lacking as well. The H is a sort-of-arrogant quasi-rogue who hasn't had sex in a year. He's dragging his feet about marriage, doesn't believe in love, etc., but we don't know why. Other than food and sex (and his pet ferret) it's hard to determine what his passions are. He's almost quirky, but not quite. The h plays the pawn; she's adamant she'll only allow a certain number of kisses from H as part of their agreement, then quickly caves. She refuses to become H's mistress, but that's basically what happens during the time she spends with H's family. They never discuss how their break-up is going to be orchestrated or what should happen if she accidentally becomes pregnant. H is frequently with her in her room, outside, or in the library unchaperoned. Ironically, at the very times she should be trying to impress and at least pretend to get to know H's family, she hides out in her room alone. Wouldn't this have been a red flag to H's relatives? It's glaringly unrealistic that his family didn't bother to research hers. The wrap-up is cute but sudden, and the H's bipolar behavior is another indication that the author wants to save him from becoming a stereotype, but doesn't know how to finesse it.
Additionally, the secondary characters are barely developed. The h's mom seems interesting, is having a flirtation with a gentleman, but that's never mentioned again. The H's sisters could have been much better fleshed out, if only there had been more scenes between them and the MC's. And the Ladies Club that the h is (sort of) a member barely features here.
Bottom line: good chemistry between the MC's and lighthearted humor aren't enough to elevate this entry in the series to a must-read.
February 10, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was adorable. I love this series, and the author's writing is well done!
The story follows Felicity (Perdie's companion) and a deal she gets herself into with the Earl of Wyndham, Phineas. Months prior she had a cute introduction to him, but they then find themselves reacquainted at a party when the Earl needs of a pretend fiancé. You see, his grandmother is dying and her dying wish is to meet the Earl's (fake) fiancé, Jane. Phineas made up the ruse of having a fiancé as a way to starve off his family from pushing him into marriage, but now he needs to bring a women home to appease his grandmother's wish.
Felicity, conveniently at the party the Earl is attending and in need of money (her mother and her both live only as companions and have no money of their own), agrees to play his fiancé for a few weeks. The two come to an agreement, including a large sum of money Felicity will earn, and begin their ruse. The connection between the two progresses (of course) and ends up being an adorable story.
Felicity is super sweet, happy and quirky (in a good way). She's actually a very likable character! Phineas isn't very exciting, but he's a good man and I really like him too. Their relationship is cute! Also, I just love this trope and the little twist that's revealed. Overall, it's a super quick and happy read!
The only thing I find with this book (and the others in this series) - it's way too short! The relationship was well done considering the allotted pages, but this could have been so much deeper and complex. Some build up/slow burn could have gone a long ways. I think if could have easily been an extra hundred pages, and it would have been a true 4 or 4.5 stars for me. It's too short to truly be a great read. I really hope the author lengthens the other books in the series. I love the characters and tropes she writes, they can just be developed so much more!
Again, I do recommend this whole series to anyone who likes a historical romance. It's quick, and very enjoyable.
This was adorable. I love this series, and the author's writing is well done!
The story follows Felicity (Perdie's companion) and a deal she gets herself into with the Earl of Wyndham, Phineas. Months prior she had a cute introduction to him, but they then find themselves reacquainted at a party when the Earl needs of a pretend fiancé. You see, his grandmother is dying and her dying wish is to meet the Earl's (fake) fiancé, Jane. Phineas made up the ruse of having a fiancé as a way to starve off his family from pushing him into marriage, but now he needs to bring a women home to appease his grandmother's wish.
Felicity, conveniently at the party the Earl is attending and in need of money (her mother and her both live only as companions and have no money of their own), agrees to play his fiancé for a few weeks. The two come to an agreement, including a large sum of money Felicity will earn, and begin their ruse. The connection between the two progresses (of course) and ends up being an adorable story.
Felicity is super sweet, happy and quirky (in a good way). She's actually a very likable character! Phineas isn't very exciting, but he's a good man and I really like him too. Their relationship is cute! Also, I just love this trope and the little twist that's revealed. Overall, it's a super quick and happy read!
The only thing I find with this book (and the others in this series) - it's way too short! The relationship was well done considering the allotted pages, but this could have been so much deeper and complex. Some build up/slow burn could have gone a long ways. I think if could have easily been an extra hundred pages, and it would have been a true 4 or 4.5 stars for me. It's too short to truly be a great read. I really hope the author lengthens the other books in the series. I love the characters and tropes she writes, they can just be developed so much more!
Again, I do recommend this whole series to anyone who likes a historical romance. It's quick, and very enjoyable.
February 10, 2022
I love this series & all the members of the exclusive lady's club, 48 Berkeley Square & this book was an entertaining addition to the series.
Miss Felicity Harrington is an intelligent, lovely & witty young lady but at six and twenty she was an unmarriable wallflower. After the death of her father, who left them nothing to live on, his heir came in took the money, the estate & disposed of her & her mother. Luckily, they both found positions in the Duke of Hartford's home - her mother was companion to the dowager duchess & Felicity was companion to the duke's sister, Perdie.
Phineas Olivier Lambton, Earl of Wyndham, is rich, handsome, a rake & the debutantes & their matchmaking mamas have been after him for years - but he does not want to marry yet. His Nanna was very special to him & she was also the biggest matchmaker of all but now she has fallen ill & the doctor says she doesn't have long to live. He had been telling his Mother, sisters & Nanna that he was betrothed to a lady named Jane - so Nanna insists on meeting Jane before she passes on.
He needs a fake fiancé now & all the fun starts here with Phin & Felicity/Jane - oh, what a tangled web we weave............ I won't go over the story in my review because it's cheating the reader but let me say that the story grabs your interest immediately & keeps you quickly turning pages until The End. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Miss Felicity Harrington is an intelligent, lovely & witty young lady but at six and twenty she was an unmarriable wallflower. After the death of her father, who left them nothing to live on, his heir came in took the money, the estate & disposed of her & her mother. Luckily, they both found positions in the Duke of Hartford's home - her mother was companion to the dowager duchess & Felicity was companion to the duke's sister, Perdie.
Phineas Olivier Lambton, Earl of Wyndham, is rich, handsome, a rake & the debutantes & their matchmaking mamas have been after him for years - but he does not want to marry yet. His Nanna was very special to him & she was also the biggest matchmaker of all but now she has fallen ill & the doctor says she doesn't have long to live. He had been telling his Mother, sisters & Nanna that he was betrothed to a lady named Jane - so Nanna insists on meeting Jane before she passes on.
He needs a fake fiancé now & all the fun starts here with Phin & Felicity/Jane - oh, what a tangled web we weave............ I won't go over the story in my review because it's cheating the reader but let me say that the story grabs your interest immediately & keeps you quickly turning pages until The End. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
April 23, 2022
Fun, quick read.
This one is a fake engagement between wallflower/lady's companion Felicity, and Earl Phineas.
Phineas has no desire to marry and settle down. He invents a fake fiancee to appease his ill grandmother, but when his Nanna's condition worsens he is forced to produce his fiancee "Jane".
Felicity met Phineas briefly a few months ago in the street and felt an instant connection to the gentleman. When they run into each other again at a ball he proposes he pay her to act as his "Jane" for a few weeks on a visit to his family's country estate. She agrees thinking the money will allow her and her widowed mother a small amount of independence.
Sparks fly once they arrive in the country. The fake relationship soon becomes real. I know it's a short book but the physical relationship between Phin and Felicity started very quickly and felt a bit rushed and slightly out of character, but the rest was pure fun.
The best thing was how the two MC's decided early on to always be honest with tell each other the truth, which they more or less did throughout. It made the story better because there was less chance of the annoying "misunderstandings" to occur.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
This one is a fake engagement between wallflower/lady's companion Felicity, and Earl Phineas.
Phineas has no desire to marry and settle down. He invents a fake fiancee to appease his ill grandmother, but when his Nanna's condition worsens he is forced to produce his fiancee "Jane".
Felicity met Phineas briefly a few months ago in the street and felt an instant connection to the gentleman. When they run into each other again at a ball he proposes he pay her to act as his "Jane" for a few weeks on a visit to his family's country estate. She agrees thinking the money will allow her and her widowed mother a small amount of independence.
Sparks fly once they arrive in the country. The fake relationship soon becomes real. I know it's a short book but the physical relationship between Phin and Felicity started very quickly and felt a bit rushed and slightly out of character, but the rest was pure fun.
The best thing was how the two MC's decided early on to always be honest with tell each other the truth, which they more or less did throughout. It made the story better because there was less chance of the annoying "misunderstandings" to occur.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
December 7, 2022
I needed a light read and this delivered: it was fast pace, minimal drama and maximum cuteness - perfect!
The writing was surprising: I liked the dated usage of many words and expressions, really took me there - at the same time, they were odd sentences and repetition in places (but they came about in a way that made it difficult for me to decide whether that was a stylistic choice or a lack of editing).
It also felt like the author had researched her topic as some descriptions of the background society and administrations felt adequate. That being said, there were some liberties taken with the historical accuracy (I feel there was a staggering lack of chaperones in this whole plot!). But the story was short and light enough that it felt like a decent bargain to strike. If I am not asked much investment into a convoluted plot with a lot of stakes that need to sound credible, then I am more than happy to let accuracy sleep and things be simplified a bit!
Characters were very likeable and cute - I liked their banter, their honesty with each other and the lack of complicated baggage to sort out. It was refreshing to just follow them along, with enough tension built up, but no protracted angst and drama!
The writing was surprising: I liked the dated usage of many words and expressions, really took me there - at the same time, they were odd sentences and repetition in places (but they came about in a way that made it difficult for me to decide whether that was a stylistic choice or a lack of editing).
It also felt like the author had researched her topic as some descriptions of the background society and administrations felt adequate. That being said, there were some liberties taken with the historical accuracy (I feel there was a staggering lack of chaperones in this whole plot!). But the story was short and light enough that it felt like a decent bargain to strike. If I am not asked much investment into a convoluted plot with a lot of stakes that need to sound credible, then I am more than happy to let accuracy sleep and things be simplified a bit!
Characters were very likeable and cute - I liked their banter, their honesty with each other and the lack of complicated baggage to sort out. It was refreshing to just follow them along, with enough tension built up, but no protracted angst and drama!
February 22, 2022
Phineas and Felicity had a business arrangement, nothing else. He just needed to give his nana her dying wish, a betrothal. At least, that’s what Phin thinks. Felicity sees a way to secure a future for her and her mother, and agrees to be his “betrothed.” This is a delightful funny story. The trip to his home is a challenge for Phineas and Felicity, especially Phin. The attraction between these two sizzles. Several near misses “getting caught,” didn’t cool the ardor, but it certainly provide giggles for the reader, as does the competition between Phineas and Nana (even though he doesn’t realize what he’s up against). This is a delightful and funny story. The characters are quite entertaining. Oskar the ferret is a charmer. Things look a little tenuous toward the end, but Phineas finally sees that Felicity is just what he needs. This cute story is a great addition to the series. Good read. I recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout. My review is voluntary.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout. My review is voluntary.
April 6, 2022
Not Very Tempting
This is the first book I have read by Alyssa Clarke, but I'm not sure I will read any more of her works. She is a good writer and seems to understand that showing is better than telling and that there needs to be a balance between dialogue, descriptions and thoughts. But, I was disappointed that the story lacked substance. In fact, if all the sex lust-talk and sex scenes were removed, Tempt Me if You Dare would have been a novella.
As to the characters, the hero and heroine were just okay. For a rake, the hero was somewhat likable, but a bit unreasonable. The heroine, for a destitute gently raised woman of 25, was too willing to take such a huge risk. In reality, their story unrealistic. Bottom line, if she has sex with the man who is paying her, that's called prostitution. But then again this is fiction.
What disappointed me the most was the so-so ending. It felt as if the author simple wanted to end this book so she could start the next one.
Content 411: Swearing, vulgarities, body slang, passionate kissing and explicit sex talk and sex scenes.
This is the first book I have read by Alyssa Clarke, but I'm not sure I will read any more of her works. She is a good writer and seems to understand that showing is better than telling and that there needs to be a balance between dialogue, descriptions and thoughts. But, I was disappointed that the story lacked substance. In fact, if all the sex lust-talk and sex scenes were removed, Tempt Me if You Dare would have been a novella.
As to the characters, the hero and heroine were just okay. For a rake, the hero was somewhat likable, but a bit unreasonable. The heroine, for a destitute gently raised woman of 25, was too willing to take such a huge risk. In reality, their story unrealistic. Bottom line, if she has sex with the man who is paying her, that's called prostitution. But then again this is fiction.
What disappointed me the most was the so-so ending. It felt as if the author simple wanted to end this book so she could start the next one.
Content 411: Swearing, vulgarities, body slang, passionate kissing and explicit sex talk and sex scenes.
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