What do you think?
Rate this book
Hazards of Dukes #4
Gentleman Seeks Bride
In this delightful flip of a classic romance trope, Megan Frampton creates a handsome, witty, hero in need of a wealthy bride who meets his match in Lady Jane Capel, from A Wicked Bargain with the Duke. Perfect for fans of Sarah MacLean, Tessa Dare, and Eloisa James.
It's a well-known fact that, when a man is in search of a bride, a good dowry is never a hindrance.
Thomas Sharpe is handsome, well-bred, and desperately in need of a wealthy bride. His father has lost their income, his sister needs looking after, and so, to save them all from a life of poverty, he travels to London in search of an heiress.
Enter Lady Jane Capel. After her fiancé ended their engagement two years ago, Jane boldly left her parents' home and moved in with her half-brother, Percy. What does one more scandal matter to a family with such a curious reputation? Jane is independent but not as well versed in life—and love—as she wants.
The two of them strike a deal: Thomas will show her all there is to know about the world—and intimacy—and Jane will help him find a bride. But the more time they spend together and the closer they get, the two of them soon realize that things aren't so simple when it comes to men and women...
It's a well-known fact that, when a man is in search of a bride, a good dowry is never a hindrance.
Thomas Sharpe is handsome, well-bred, and desperately in need of a wealthy bride. His father has lost their income, his sister needs looking after, and so, to save them all from a life of poverty, he travels to London in search of an heiress.
Enter Lady Jane Capel. After her fiancé ended their engagement two years ago, Jane boldly left her parents' home and moved in with her half-brother, Percy. What does one more scandal matter to a family with such a curious reputation? Jane is independent but not as well versed in life—and love—as she wants.
The two of them strike a deal: Thomas will show her all there is to know about the world—and intimacy—and Jane will help him find a bride. But the more time they spend together and the closer they get, the two of them soon realize that things aren't so simple when it comes to men and women...
360 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 30, 2021
70 people are currently reading
2704 people want to read
About the author
Megan Frampton
40 books1,053 followersMegan Frampton's love affair with books began when her parents moved her to a remote town in New Hampshire where there was only one television station. And then the TV broke. She devoured every book of fiction in her well-read parents' library, finding special joy in Georgette Heyer and the fairy tales collected and translated by Andrew Lang. Megan majored in English literature at Barnard College and worked in the music industry for fifteen years. She lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her husband (her former intern) and her kid.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
January 20, 2022
Thomas Sharpe needs a wealthy bride. He's handsome and charismatic, but his father lost their family wealth on a bad investment. Lady Jane Capel was jilted by a no-good-ex-fiancé and cut off financially. She's living with her half-brother and trying to figure out what she wants from her life. Jane will help her brother's friend, Thomas, make a match, in exchange for showing her all the things that men get to enjoy but young ladies are sheltered from...including intimacy!
This is the fourth book in the Hazards of Dukes series. Jane is the sister of book three heroine, Lavinia. Jane's backstory is largely left out of this novel, so readers may want to read the previous story to find out about Jane's failed betrothal.
I thought Thomas was the better developed character here. Often in romance novels, the female lead needs to marry to save the family but this time it was our hero. His parents are aging, he has a frightfully shy sister, and he needs to step up to the marriage plate in order to take care of everyone. He thought marrying for a dowry would be easy but, two years later, he's no closer to finding a wife. Thomas has a pretty face, but is deemed too flirtatious and not serious enough to settle down with. Enter Jane, his best friend's sister, who would be an excellent choice...if only she hadn't been disowned.
This book is not for the pearl-clutchers! Jane and Thomas have a strong physical connection and they make use of it...repeatedly. From hot air balloon caresses to visiting a voyeur club, this book is definitely high steam. Give this one a try if you like sexy stories that put a different spin on a popular trope.
Tropes: Jilted Heroine, Matchmaking, Lessons, Brother’s Best Friend/Best Friend’s Sister, Friends to Lovers
Steam Rating: 5+
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the fourth book in the Hazards of Dukes series. Jane is the sister of book three heroine, Lavinia. Jane's backstory is largely left out of this novel, so readers may want to read the previous story to find out about Jane's failed betrothal.
I thought Thomas was the better developed character here. Often in romance novels, the female lead needs to marry to save the family but this time it was our hero. His parents are aging, he has a frightfully shy sister, and he needs to step up to the marriage plate in order to take care of everyone. He thought marrying for a dowry would be easy but, two years later, he's no closer to finding a wife. Thomas has a pretty face, but is deemed too flirtatious and not serious enough to settle down with. Enter Jane, his best friend's sister, who would be an excellent choice...if only she hadn't been disowned.
This book is not for the pearl-clutchers! Jane and Thomas have a strong physical connection and they make use of it...repeatedly. From hot air balloon caresses to visiting a voyeur club, this book is definitely high steam. Give this one a try if you like sexy stories that put a different spin on a popular trope.
Tropes: Jilted Heroine, Matchmaking, Lessons, Brother’s Best Friend/Best Friend’s Sister, Friends to Lovers
Steam Rating: 5+
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 14, 2021
A beautiful love, a friendship caught fire, filled with self-discovery and wry humor. Where he became a better man because of her presence in his life, and she found acceptance and encouragement to be true to herself. Lots of steamy goodness as he taught her and satisfied her curiosity, supporting her desire to break free of the rigid dictates enforced upon women at the time.
She no longer wished to be Lady Jane Capel, Naive and Gentle Flower. She wanted to be Lady Jane, Fearsome and Adventurous Miscreant.
Jane’s heart leaped as his gaze shifted, lower to her mouth, and then lower still, traveling lazily back up to her eyes as though he was drinking her in. And was parched. It was intoxicating to be looked at like that. So she did the same back at him, making his mouth curl up into a wry smile. “Equality in all things, Mr. Sharpe,” she murmured.
They complemented each other so perfectly in every way that it’s no wonder they fell so hard. And I was rooting just as hard for them to find their beautiful HEA.
She no longer wished to be Lady Jane Capel, Naive and Gentle Flower. She wanted to be Lady Jane, Fearsome and Adventurous Miscreant.
Jane’s heart leaped as his gaze shifted, lower to her mouth, and then lower still, traveling lazily back up to her eyes as though he was drinking her in. And was parched. It was intoxicating to be looked at like that. So she did the same back at him, making his mouth curl up into a wry smile. “Equality in all things, Mr. Sharpe,” she murmured.
They complemented each other so perfectly in every way that it’s no wonder they fell so hard. And I was rooting just as hard for them to find their beautiful HEA.
August 7, 2022
You don’t see too often where both MCs have professions and work for a living by the end! Loved the steam content (although the length was a little short on them all) and the end was super cute!! No real breakup and a fun sweet spicy time all around. If you liked The Good Girl’s Guide to Rakes but want less angst and drama and a quicker burn, try this! Both are brother’s best friend + sex lessons in exchange for bride hunt! I also loved the narrator besides the climax groans lmao
There was a great vouyer scene!!! She got to pick whatever she wanted to watch (with him) 👁🫦👁
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
There was a great vouyer scene!!! She got to pick whatever she wanted to watch (with him) 👁🫦👁
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
November 27, 2021
Book 4 in the “Hazards of Dukes” series. This is my first book by this author, and WOW, she hit this out of the ballpark — I loved it! 4.5 stars
In a role reversal, our hero Thomas Sharpe, travels to London in search of a wealthy bride, -there’s high stakes involved, as he needs to find an heiress quick to save his family after his father lost all their money on investments. Thomas Sharpe is tall, handsome and excels at everything, so how hard could it be to find a bride? Well, due to his reputation as a charming rake, after two years, he’s no closer to finding someone that will commit.
Lady Jane Capel and Thomas cross paths at Miss Ivys gambling club. Thomas is her brothers best friend. Jane promises to help Thomas on his heiress hunt, and in exchange, he will teach her about the world (thats off limits to her), and the ins and outs of intimacy.
Unfortunately, Jane was disowned by her parents, and their money, so she’s not a suitable pick for Thomas. Yet both have a strong physical attraction to one another, and are eager for something more. Thomas and Jane’s not-so-innocent kisses, touches, and longing turn into what each were looking for all along — love. It’s a FUN and VERY SPICY romance, where Jane and Thomas finally question themselves; -if they had their own choices to make, would they marry someone for money or love?
*Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager via NetGalley for kindly providing this arc for an honest review.
In a role reversal, our hero Thomas Sharpe, travels to London in search of a wealthy bride, -there’s high stakes involved, as he needs to find an heiress quick to save his family after his father lost all their money on investments. Thomas Sharpe is tall, handsome and excels at everything, so how hard could it be to find a bride? Well, due to his reputation as a charming rake, after two years, he’s no closer to finding someone that will commit.
Lady Jane Capel and Thomas cross paths at Miss Ivys gambling club. Thomas is her brothers best friend. Jane promises to help Thomas on his heiress hunt, and in exchange, he will teach her about the world (thats off limits to her), and the ins and outs of intimacy.
Unfortunately, Jane was disowned by her parents, and their money, so she’s not a suitable pick for Thomas. Yet both have a strong physical attraction to one another, and are eager for something more. Thomas and Jane’s not-so-innocent kisses, touches, and longing turn into what each were looking for all along — love. It’s a FUN and VERY SPICY romance, where Jane and Thomas finally question themselves; -if they had their own choices to make, would they marry someone for money or love?
*Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager via NetGalley for kindly providing this arc for an honest review.
February 1, 2022
Thomas Sharpe comes from a good family but since his father made a bad investment, they are now nearly penniless. Lacking in training to do much more than lead the idle life of a gentleman, Thomas must trade on his good looks and charm to find an heiress to marry so he can support his parents and sister.
Since her fiancé jilted her two years ago, Lady Jane Capel has been living with her half-brother Percy, and has been labeled a scandal. Given her rather colorful reputation, Jane has little to lose and sets about living the life she wants and voicing her opinions, but she is eager to experience things that are normally forbidden to ladies of her social standing.
Thomas and Jane come to an agreement that he will show her new things and teach her a bit about real intimacy between men and women and she’ll help him find a suitable wife. He’s determined not to truly corrupt his best friend’s sister, nor fall in love with her, but as Jane and Thomas spend more time together, they both come to realize that the heart wants what the heart wants, even when it shouldn’t.
I was charmed by Thomas and Jane as they got to know each other and I appreciated that they were open and honest, without playing games with one another. Similarly, I was happy to see that this story didn’t rely on the miscommunication trope to create conflict. Rather, the conflict here was obvious: Thomas needed to marry for money; Jane had none. Unfortunately, this point was hammered home excessively, especially in Thomas’ very frequent inner monologues, as was their mutual need to avoid falling in love with one another. I got it the first time and I certainly didn’t need umpteen reminders which sadly became repetitive very quickly and began to feel a bit like idle filler. Although, I will say that the near-constant reminders of how Thomas had no choice in his future did make it incredibly satisfying when he finally realized that he did indeed have a choice if he was brave and unconventional about it, which I thought was very in keeping with the book’s theme of pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box. I especially loved the relationship Jane shared with her brother, Percy; I thought the supposed reconciliation she experienced with her parents was a bit random and less than satisfactory, especially since there was never much follow-up, and it didn’t seem to do much to advance the story. Beyond these few weaknesses in the storyline, I loved Thomas giving Jane lessons on intimacy, and the steam was fabulous. I was also charmed by the fact that Jane taught Thomas just as much about himself and the truly valuable things in life as he taught her about scandalous activities. I enjoyed their dynamic with Percy and his encouragement of their relationship and overall, I think this was a cute book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Since her fiancé jilted her two years ago, Lady Jane Capel has been living with her half-brother Percy, and has been labeled a scandal. Given her rather colorful reputation, Jane has little to lose and sets about living the life she wants and voicing her opinions, but she is eager to experience things that are normally forbidden to ladies of her social standing.
Thomas and Jane come to an agreement that he will show her new things and teach her a bit about real intimacy between men and women and she’ll help him find a suitable wife. He’s determined not to truly corrupt his best friend’s sister, nor fall in love with her, but as Jane and Thomas spend more time together, they both come to realize that the heart wants what the heart wants, even when it shouldn’t.
I was charmed by Thomas and Jane as they got to know each other and I appreciated that they were open and honest, without playing games with one another. Similarly, I was happy to see that this story didn’t rely on the miscommunication trope to create conflict. Rather, the conflict here was obvious: Thomas needed to marry for money; Jane had none. Unfortunately, this point was hammered home excessively, especially in Thomas’ very frequent inner monologues, as was their mutual need to avoid falling in love with one another. I got it the first time and I certainly didn’t need umpteen reminders which sadly became repetitive very quickly and began to feel a bit like idle filler. Although, I will say that the near-constant reminders of how Thomas had no choice in his future did make it incredibly satisfying when he finally realized that he did indeed have a choice if he was brave and unconventional about it, which I thought was very in keeping with the book’s theme of pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box. I especially loved the relationship Jane shared with her brother, Percy; I thought the supposed reconciliation she experienced with her parents was a bit random and less than satisfactory, especially since there was never much follow-up, and it didn’t seem to do much to advance the story. Beyond these few weaknesses in the storyline, I loved Thomas giving Jane lessons on intimacy, and the steam was fabulous. I was also charmed by the fact that Jane taught Thomas just as much about himself and the truly valuable things in life as he taught her about scandalous activities. I enjoyed their dynamic with Percy and his encouragement of their relationship and overall, I think this was a cute book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
December 6, 2021
Don't you love books that embrace their own tropes? We do! And Gentleman Seeks Bride is one of them. As our heroine, Jane, puts it: "What with asking for a kissing education, and helping a gentleman land an heiress, and the gentleman being my brother's best friend .... It would be altogether too much if you were to put all those things into a book." Well Megan Frampton takes the challenge and we adored it.
Also those kissing lessons go wayyyy beyond kissing and we were HERE FOR IT. This is super fun, super sexy, just a little angsty, and had a denouement to die for. If this sounds like something you'd vaguely like, you will. Just read it.
30-word summaries:
Laine: Fortune hunter needs "pay the bills" money, not "upkeep the ancestral pile" money. Finding a bride was impossible until his BFF's sister vouches for him in exchange for sex lessons.
Meg: The only way any slightly disreputable man ever gets married in Society is by convincing his best friend’s sister to introduce him to suitable women. Then they marry each other.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Also those kissing lessons go wayyyy beyond kissing and we were HERE FOR IT. This is super fun, super sexy, just a little angsty, and had a denouement to die for. If this sounds like something you'd vaguely like, you will. Just read it.
30-word summaries:
Laine: Fortune hunter needs "pay the bills" money, not "upkeep the ancestral pile" money. Finding a bride was impossible until his BFF's sister vouches for him in exchange for sex lessons.
Meg: The only way any slightly disreputable man ever gets married in Society is by convincing his best friend’s sister to introduce him to suitable women. Then they marry each other.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
August 14, 2022
This was just sensual but also very slow and ultimately failed to keep my attention.
November 18, 2021
Barbara’s rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars
Series: Hazards of Dukes #4
Publication Date: 11/30/21
Number of Pages: 384
We met Lady Jane Chapel in the previous book in this series – and goodness – I think she had a personality transplant. What a difference two years can make. In that book, she was so meek, mild, and backward that her younger sister had to step in and save her from a very unwanted marriage. She mostly didn’t want the marriage because she was in love with someone else and they were secretly betrothed. That, of course, ended when her younger sister’s marriage caused a huge scandal. Somehow, after all of that chaos, she has grown a spine of steel, a will of iron, a longing for illicit events, and the temerity to state all of those things. The only part of her I recognized from the last book is how exceptionally beautiful she is.
Thomas Sharpe loves his family and will do whatever it takes to save them. Yes, they need saving. Thomas’s father lost all of his fortune because of a bad investment. I’m not sure why he’d invest money he couldn’t afford to lose – and certainly not enough to bankrupt them, but he did. The only way Thomas can save them is to marry an heiress who has enough money to support them all. He’s been looking for two years and hasn’t been successful because he is so very charming, witty, and handsome that none of the heiresses believe he’ll take a marriage commitment seriously. (I know, we all buy that one.)
Thomas is best friends with Jane’s illegitimate half-brother, Percy, but has spent very little time with Lady Jane who now lives with Percy. However, the two of them make a bargain – Jane will help Thomas find his bride IF Thomas will show her some of the more illicit things in society – those things she’d never normally be allowed to see. Of course, we all know where that is headed – toward a HEA – right!
The story blurb sounds good, doesn’t it? So, why didn’t I rate it 5-stars? While I generally enjoyed the story, there was a couple of things that just wore on me – but I will still read the next one.
• It was plainly and firmly established early on that Thomas had to save his family by marrying for money. Yet, we had to read it and re-read it and re-read it ad nauseum. Enough already.
• The writing often felt a bit choppy and repetitive.
• We heard over and over that Thomas was the most handsome and most charming man in London, yet I saw little of that exceptional charm demonstrated anywhere. He was charming and witty, but no more than anyone else.
• Many of the conversations and actions just had a very modern feel to me.
• It annoyed me that Thomas’s first thought to save his family was to marry for money instead of exploring all of the options that might have been available to him. His best friend is a whiz with numbers and accounting and works for the queen – so why wouldn’t Thomas seek advice from him? Why would Thomas not consider what sorts of other things he could do – especially since he was so very handsome and charming. Surely someone in his vast array of friends could offer some assistance. Thomas isn’t titled and it is the Victorian age – so – surely there was something else to at least consider.
This author is always hit-or-miss for me, so I always have to read the next book to see where it will fall. This book seems to fall into the ‘meh’ category, but the last one was a firm 5-star read. There is a fair amount of wit and steam in the book, so that isn’t ever a bad thing. Overall, I am happy to have met Thomas and Jane but wouldn't read this book a second time.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Hazards of Dukes #4
Publication Date: 11/30/21
Number of Pages: 384
We met Lady Jane Chapel in the previous book in this series – and goodness – I think she had a personality transplant. What a difference two years can make. In that book, she was so meek, mild, and backward that her younger sister had to step in and save her from a very unwanted marriage. She mostly didn’t want the marriage because she was in love with someone else and they were secretly betrothed. That, of course, ended when her younger sister’s marriage caused a huge scandal. Somehow, after all of that chaos, she has grown a spine of steel, a will of iron, a longing for illicit events, and the temerity to state all of those things. The only part of her I recognized from the last book is how exceptionally beautiful she is.
Thomas Sharpe loves his family and will do whatever it takes to save them. Yes, they need saving. Thomas’s father lost all of his fortune because of a bad investment. I’m not sure why he’d invest money he couldn’t afford to lose – and certainly not enough to bankrupt them, but he did. The only way Thomas can save them is to marry an heiress who has enough money to support them all. He’s been looking for two years and hasn’t been successful because he is so very charming, witty, and handsome that none of the heiresses believe he’ll take a marriage commitment seriously. (I know, we all buy that one.)
Thomas is best friends with Jane’s illegitimate half-brother, Percy, but has spent very little time with Lady Jane who now lives with Percy. However, the two of them make a bargain – Jane will help Thomas find his bride IF Thomas will show her some of the more illicit things in society – those things she’d never normally be allowed to see. Of course, we all know where that is headed – toward a HEA – right!
The story blurb sounds good, doesn’t it? So, why didn’t I rate it 5-stars? While I generally enjoyed the story, there was a couple of things that just wore on me – but I will still read the next one.
• It was plainly and firmly established early on that Thomas had to save his family by marrying for money. Yet, we had to read it and re-read it and re-read it ad nauseum. Enough already.
• The writing often felt a bit choppy and repetitive.
• We heard over and over that Thomas was the most handsome and most charming man in London, yet I saw little of that exceptional charm demonstrated anywhere. He was charming and witty, but no more than anyone else.
• Many of the conversations and actions just had a very modern feel to me.
• It annoyed me that Thomas’s first thought to save his family was to marry for money instead of exploring all of the options that might have been available to him. His best friend is a whiz with numbers and accounting and works for the queen – so why wouldn’t Thomas seek advice from him? Why would Thomas not consider what sorts of other things he could do – especially since he was so very handsome and charming. Surely someone in his vast array of friends could offer some assistance. Thomas isn’t titled and it is the Victorian age – so – surely there was something else to at least consider.
This author is always hit-or-miss for me, so I always have to read the next book to see where it will fall. This book seems to fall into the ‘meh’ category, but the last one was a firm 5-star read. There is a fair amount of wit and steam in the book, so that isn’t ever a bad thing. Overall, I am happy to have met Thomas and Jane but wouldn't read this book a second time.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 29, 2022
gorgeous gorgeous girls take charge of their lives, break the shackles of societal expectations and delve deep into realising their own self-worth 💅
and who, you ask, may this gorgeous gorgeous girl in question be? why lady jane capel, of course!
also, thomas sharpe? was it just me or did i picture a tall dark and handsome tom hiddleston shaped manifestation of said character? and by manifestation i mean said character's namesake who unlike *this* thomas sharpe, quite literally and tragically fell on the shortsword—or rather stabbed bc of—his calamitous life and really bad choices. rip 😭
anyway, this was one delightful read. the sweltering sexual tension, the budding friendship, the mutual pining, all of it. just wow. i just loved how unequivocally on-par these two characters were with one another. friends to lovers trope done splendidly, i tell you 📈📈📈
also lets take a moment and talk about how generous thomas sharpe was in the art of ✨giving✨ the way he was always thinking about what jane wants and how to make her feel comfortable 🥺 the scene in the sex club thats not a sex club where they get both get hot and bothered from watching other couple demonstrating the art of “tipping the velvet” 🥵 yes! i mean, talk about a kitty pleaser 😮💨 also the other scene where thomas gives janes the metophorical reins and asks her "tell me what you want me to do"? y'all, my legs are officially divorcing 🔥
i think i have said enough here, bc if i go any further i might just be tempted to hug my toaster in the bath. lord knows how i am totally, absolutely, more than willing to give up an arm, a leg or my firstborn to have what they have 🥰 *slides a twenty in the direction of megan frampton urging her with the 🥺 eyes to build me one plzzzz*
in saying all of that, i guess my only complaint about this story would be about the complication and how it felt a little too, idk frivolous? maybe im just sadistic, but i like it when my characters suffer (tho i wont disclose how much suffering is prefered 👀). is that mean? maybe. and these two, while trapped under the thumb of their own unfortunate state of affairs, it wasnt as if their problems were beyond their control.
thomas' family's financial straits? and jane's own circumstances from living as a sort-of black sheep among “polite" london society? . in saying that, their hardships while understandably suboptimal, didn't feel all that dire. so maybe its just the inner chaos monger in me, but it wasnt exactly what i was hoping for 😅
anyway, these small shortcomings aside, i still loved the story insanely. i think the author did a fantastic job at writing both of these characters and showing how well they work together as a couple. the sex (although pretty minimal) was raunchy yet beautiful. the side characters were very agreeable. percy was an amazing brother. i think we all need a percy in our lives. alice and millie? if anything i think that’s great sapphic romance potential right there. just altogether splendid. so ill just leave it at that 🥰
rating: 3.5 stars
and who, you ask, may this gorgeous gorgeous girl in question be? why lady jane capel, of course!
also, thomas sharpe? was it just me or did i picture a tall dark and handsome tom hiddleston shaped manifestation of said character? and by manifestation i mean said character's namesake who unlike *this* thomas sharpe, quite literally and tragically fell on the shortsword—or rather stabbed bc of—his calamitous life and really bad choices. rip 😭
anyway, this was one delightful read. the sweltering sexual tension, the budding friendship, the mutual pining, all of it. just wow. i just loved how unequivocally on-par these two characters were with one another. friends to lovers trope done splendidly, i tell you 📈📈📈
also lets take a moment and talk about how generous thomas sharpe was in the art of ✨giving✨ the way he was always thinking about what jane wants and how to make her feel comfortable 🥺 the scene in the sex club thats not a sex club where they get both get hot and bothered from watching other couple demonstrating the art of “tipping the velvet” 🥵 yes! i mean, talk about a kitty pleaser 😮💨 also the other scene where thomas gives janes the metophorical reins and asks her "tell me what you want me to do"? y'all, my legs are officially divorcing 🔥
i think i have said enough here, bc if i go any further i might just be tempted to hug my toaster in the bath. lord knows how i am totally, absolutely, more than willing to give up an arm, a leg or my firstborn to have what they have 🥰 *slides a twenty in the direction of megan frampton urging her with the 🥺 eyes to build me one plzzzz*
in saying all of that, i guess my only complaint about this story would be about the complication and how it felt a little too, idk frivolous? maybe im just sadistic, but i like it when my characters suffer (tho i wont disclose how much suffering is prefered 👀). is that mean? maybe. and these two, while trapped under the thumb of their own unfortunate state of affairs, it wasnt as if their problems were beyond their control.
thomas' family's financial straits? and jane's own circumstances from living as a sort-of black sheep among “polite" london society? . in saying that, their hardships while understandably suboptimal, didn't feel all that dire. so maybe its just the inner chaos monger in me, but it wasnt exactly what i was hoping for 😅
anyway, these small shortcomings aside, i still loved the story insanely. i think the author did a fantastic job at writing both of these characters and showing how well they work together as a couple. the sex (although pretty minimal) was raunchy yet beautiful. the side characters were very agreeable. percy was an amazing brother. i think we all need a percy in our lives. alice and millie? if anything i think that’s great sapphic romance potential right there. just altogether splendid. so ill just leave it at that 🥰
rating: 3.5 stars
December 3, 2021
Thomas Sharpe needs to marry an heiress. With a sister who needs looking after and a father who spent their fortune it's Thomas's responsibility to save his family.
Lady Jane's heart is still feeling a bit bruised two years later from her fiance abandoning her.
Thomas and Jane make a deal that if he teaches her the mysteries of pleasure she will help him find an heiress.
I loved the premise of this, it was a fun switch to a classic historical romance trope. I was also really looking forward to Jane's story after book 3.
And while the first half of this was really engaging, the second half was a bit boring. There was nothing moving the story and romance forward. It was very repetitive and I lost interest.
However this book has some great steam, and plenty of it. But everything else felt a bit lacking.
I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Lady Jane's heart is still feeling a bit bruised two years later from her fiance abandoning her.
Thomas and Jane make a deal that if he teaches her the mysteries of pleasure she will help him find an heiress.
I loved the premise of this, it was a fun switch to a classic historical romance trope. I was also really looking forward to Jane's story after book 3.
And while the first half of this was really engaging, the second half was a bit boring. There was nothing moving the story and romance forward. It was very repetitive and I lost interest.
However this book has some great steam, and plenty of it. But everything else felt a bit lacking.
I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 26, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this! I read and also really enjoyed the first book in this series so I'm happy I enjoyed this one as well. I was a bit worried at the beginning that I wouldn't like this. It starts a bit slow and I thought the reason Thomas and Jane first get together was a bit rushed. However, the later part of this story really brought me around.
I thought the author did a really good job developing the relationship between Jane and Thomas. Except for the oddly rushed initial reason for them getting together, the pacing of the relationship was really well done. I felt like I could actually see why they were falling for each other.
Essentially, Thomas has to marry for money and Jane isn't wealthy enough and that's what is keeping them apart. That conflict is repeated frequently during this story, maybe a bit too frequently. However, I am always impressed with Frampton's ability to keep me engaged with relatively simple plots that don't have a ton of external conflict. I never find her stories dull even though those type of stories tend to bore me.
The sex scenes are also very well written in my opinion. I honestly don't read romance for the sex scenes and I will sometimes skim them if I think there are too many in a book but I really appreciated how well they were written in this book. Frampton does use some language that isn't as sexy that can bring me out of it a bit but otherwise, they're well done. There's one scene in a sex club that was so good, I'll probably re-read that chapter in the future, it was that good (the end chapter 17 through chapter 18, if you're curious).
There were a few things I didn't like as much. As I said, the conflict around Thomas needing to mary for money is repeated a few too many times. The reader doesn't need to be reminded of the central conflict that many times. There is also a bit of a side plot about conflict between Jane and her parents that isn't built up enough to be meaningful when it's resolved. The epilogue also loses some of the voice of the characters and feels very telling-not-showing. The language and attitudes of some of the characters are probably a bit too modern for them times, especially at the end, but personally, that kind of stuff doesn't bother me but may be helpful to know if it does bother you.
I definitely want to go back and read books two and three after reading this. Something about Frampton's storytelling just works really well for me and I really appreciate her work. I would definitely recommend people read this oce it comes out at the end of this month!
I really liked this! I read and also really enjoyed the first book in this series so I'm happy I enjoyed this one as well. I was a bit worried at the beginning that I wouldn't like this. It starts a bit slow and I thought the reason Thomas and Jane first get together was a bit rushed. However, the later part of this story really brought me around.
I thought the author did a really good job developing the relationship between Jane and Thomas. Except for the oddly rushed initial reason for them getting together, the pacing of the relationship was really well done. I felt like I could actually see why they were falling for each other.
Essentially, Thomas has to marry for money and Jane isn't wealthy enough and that's what is keeping them apart. That conflict is repeated frequently during this story, maybe a bit too frequently. However, I am always impressed with Frampton's ability to keep me engaged with relatively simple plots that don't have a ton of external conflict. I never find her stories dull even though those type of stories tend to bore me.
The sex scenes are also very well written in my opinion. I honestly don't read romance for the sex scenes and I will sometimes skim them if I think there are too many in a book but I really appreciated how well they were written in this book. Frampton does use some language that isn't as sexy that can bring me out of it a bit but otherwise, they're well done. There's one scene in a sex club that was so good, I'll probably re-read that chapter in the future, it was that good (the end chapter 17 through chapter 18, if you're curious).
There were a few things I didn't like as much. As I said, the conflict around Thomas needing to mary for money is repeated a few too many times. The reader doesn't need to be reminded of the central conflict that many times. There is also a bit of a side plot about conflict between Jane and her parents that isn't built up enough to be meaningful when it's resolved. The epilogue also loses some of the voice of the characters and feels very telling-not-showing. The language and attitudes of some of the characters are probably a bit too modern for them times, especially at the end, but personally, that kind of stuff doesn't bother me but may be helpful to know if it does bother you.
I definitely want to go back and read books two and three after reading this. Something about Frampton's storytelling just works really well for me and I really appreciate her work. I would definitely recommend people read this oce it comes out at the end of this month!
January 19, 2022
I think this book deserves a 3.5 stars from me. I enjoyed the chemistry between Thomas and Jane because both of them had a sense of humour and often bantered with each other which I liked. They just got along really well together.
The insta lust threw me off a little, hence the lower rating. I would have preferred if they spent more time getting to know each other better instead of having insta lust. I’m not saying they didn’t bond at all, but I felt that they needed more deeper conversations, more empathising, sharing of stories etc
Nevertheless, i enjoyed this book because I liked Thomas and Jane and their adventures. The part where they went to the club to watch a couple have sex was more erotic than I thought and I liked that scene the most in this book.
The insta lust threw me off a little, hence the lower rating. I would have preferred if they spent more time getting to know each other better instead of having insta lust. I’m not saying they didn’t bond at all, but I felt that they needed more deeper conversations, more empathising, sharing of stories etc
Nevertheless, i enjoyed this book because I liked Thomas and Jane and their adventures. The part where they went to the club to watch a couple have sex was more erotic than I thought and I liked that scene the most in this book.
December 17, 2021
I enjoyed Gentleman Seeks Bride by Megan Frampton, even if the pace was a bit off for me and the middle/end was a slog.
I've read a few books from Megan Frampton, so I had high hopes for this one, but when you read hundreds of historical romances, it's hard to make books feel unique. I don't think Megan Frampton accomplished anything new with this book, which made it feel slightly bland.
The main couple had good chemistry, even if their relationship was a bit insta-lust for my taste. I enjoyed their scenes together. I think the beginning of the story was more exciting, but the middle and end was just drawing out their inevitable relationship. I also knew what was going to happen well ahead of time (resolution to the main source of tension), so it wasn't terribly exciting for me.
A decent read, but won't be anything revolutionary for seasoned historical romance lovers.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
I've read a few books from Megan Frampton, so I had high hopes for this one, but when you read hundreds of historical romances, it's hard to make books feel unique. I don't think Megan Frampton accomplished anything new with this book, which made it feel slightly bland.
The main couple had good chemistry, even if their relationship was a bit insta-lust for my taste. I enjoyed their scenes together. I think the beginning of the story was more exciting, but the middle and end was just drawing out their inevitable relationship. I also knew what was going to happen well ahead of time (resolution to the main source of tension), so it wasn't terribly exciting for me.
A decent read, but won't be anything revolutionary for seasoned historical romance lovers.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
October 25, 2021
Gentleman Seeks Bride is the fourth book in the Hazards of Dukes series. I read the first book in the beginning of the year and really enjoyed it. When I saw the fourth book had become available as an ARC I sped through books 2 and 3. This book could be read as a stand alone but you really get a better glimpse into what happened with Jane in the third book of the series. I really liked Gentleman Seeks Bride. It was so refreshing to have both main characters in a historical be of noble birth but be in need of money.
Thomas Sharpe's family is a part of the ton but in need of money to keep their family estates going. He's been on the marriage mart for a few years but no one will seem to take his wanting to settle down seriously because of how much of a flirt he is. Lady Jane Capel is estranged from her parents after ending an engagement and moving in with her half brother, Percy. Jane decides that she wants to strike to propose a deal with Sharpe (Percy's best friend). In exchange for lessons in worldliness and intimacy, Jane will help Thomas find a wealthy bride by the end of the season.
I really loved the chemistry between Thomas and Jane. There were plenty of quips and witty dialogue between them. They really respected each other as equals. The moments that I loved most were those moments where he walks in on her doing chores or they dance the polka. Frampton's writing made such ordinary moments so charming. The hot air balloon scene was so steamy. I loved Percy and his romance story. It would be great if he could get his own novella.
Tropes: brother's best friend, kissing lessons, voyeurism, sex club, jilted heroine, matchmaking, friends to lovers
Thank you to NetGalley, Megan Frampton, and Avon Harper Voyager for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thomas Sharpe's family is a part of the ton but in need of money to keep their family estates going. He's been on the marriage mart for a few years but no one will seem to take his wanting to settle down seriously because of how much of a flirt he is. Lady Jane Capel is estranged from her parents after ending an engagement and moving in with her half brother, Percy. Jane decides that she wants to strike to propose a deal with Sharpe (Percy's best friend). In exchange for lessons in worldliness and intimacy, Jane will help Thomas find a wealthy bride by the end of the season.
I really loved the chemistry between Thomas and Jane. There were plenty of quips and witty dialogue between them. They really respected each other as equals. The moments that I loved most were those moments where he walks in on her doing chores or they dance the polka. Frampton's writing made such ordinary moments so charming. The hot air balloon scene was so steamy. I loved Percy and his romance story. It would be great if he could get his own novella.
Tropes: brother's best friend, kissing lessons, voyeurism, sex club, jilted heroine, matchmaking, friends to lovers
Thank you to NetGalley, Megan Frampton, and Avon Harper Voyager for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 2, 2021
I've been enjoying this series, so there was no way I was going to miss this story...even if I don't really remember Jane.
I really liked these two MCs. There are several mentions of Jane being meek in the previous story and this takes place two years later, so she's starting to make moves in the direction she wants. Thomas has been told he's charming and handsome his entire life, so that's all he believes he is. Together these two have chemistry for days and even better, each find something in the other that they didn't know they needed.
Plot wise, it's good. They're together for a lot of the story and that's always a favorite for me. The conflict is minimal and I really loved the way it was resolved. Oh, and I could do with a million pages of Percy and Daffy together.
Overall, this was a fun story with characters who were easy to root for. I hope there's more in this series.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing an arc free of charge**
I really liked these two MCs. There are several mentions of Jane being meek in the previous story and this takes place two years later, so she's starting to make moves in the direction she wants. Thomas has been told he's charming and handsome his entire life, so that's all he believes he is. Together these two have chemistry for days and even better, each find something in the other that they didn't know they needed.
Plot wise, it's good. They're together for a lot of the story and that's always a favorite for me. The conflict is minimal and I really loved the way it was resolved. Oh, and I could do with a million pages of Percy and Daffy together.
Overall, this was a fun story with characters who were easy to root for. I hope there's more in this series.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing an arc free of charge**
November 27, 2021
Thomas Sharpe is an amazing hero, seeking a wife, because he is in need of her dowry to help care for his ailing parents. Jane is a jilted bride, who is still naive to parts of the world, especially intimacy. When Thomas and Jane make a deal that she finds him a bride, and he teachers her about intimacy, things steam up!
Book 3 is required to be read before this one, just because you get the back story for our heroine in that book. I felt like this book focused mostly on Thomas' story, so if you don't have the perspective on Jane from book 3, she may fall a bit flat for you.
Another great novel! Love this author!
Book 3 is required to be read before this one, just because you get the back story for our heroine in that book. I felt like this book focused mostly on Thomas' story, so if you don't have the perspective on Jane from book 3, she may fall a bit flat for you.
Another great novel! Love this author!
February 20, 2022
This one started out great, I was hooked! Then around the middle everything sort of fizzled out. If you're looking for a low angst romance, then you'll love this! To me, it just felt a little boring. I wanted something to come along and shake things up. I loved Thomas and Jane and their banter was fun. I'm a sucker for good banter. It's well written and I did enjoy watching the couple come together.
Overall, a middle of the road read that I did enjoy for the most part.
**Thanks to Netgalley for this title**
Overall, a middle of the road read that I did enjoy for the most part.
**Thanks to Netgalley for this title**
February 13, 2022
Lady Jane Capel and Mr. Thomas Sharpe make a deal. She will help him find an heiress to wed, and he will teach her about all the things young ladies are restricted in learning, including intimacy. Thomas won't pass up on a deal like that, especially since his family is depending upon him to marry for money. He will advance Lady Jane's education, but not go all the way. It starts with a lesson in anticipation. Then next time they meet the anticipation grows to kisses in a carriage, and his hand on her breast. Jane wants equality in everything they do. She wants to be able to make her own choices. Thomas easily goes along with her desires. They promise each other they won't fall in love. Soon it is time for the party being hosted by Jane and her half-brother Percy. They have invited several heiresses and some of Percy's friends, who are economists. From this party, Thomas is to choose an heiress to propose to the next day. The only kink in the plans is that Thomas has fallen in love with Jane, and she with him. Will Thomas sacrifice his future happiness and marry for money to uphold his family obligations, or will he follow his heart and find other solutions to his family responsibilities?
Both Thomas and Jane are good looking persons. Thomas has used his good looks and charm, but it's been two years since the family lost their money through bad investments, and he still hasn't found a wife. Jane is becoming her own person since she was jilted two years ago. She wants to be more independent with the knowledge that comes from life experiences. Thomas's character is more fleshed out than Jane's. I identified more with the hero than the heroine. Percy plays a secondary character. He forms a relationship with Daffy, a man from among his economist friends. The plot is pretty straightforward. There appears there will be a fifth book to the series so there are some loose ends, but nothing too noticeable to throw the current story out of whack and feel like a cliffhanger. The dialgue fit the characters. I've enjoyed the Hazards of Dukes series and look forward to the next novel. Adult situations and language.
Both Thomas and Jane are good looking persons. Thomas has used his good looks and charm, but it's been two years since the family lost their money through bad investments, and he still hasn't found a wife. Jane is becoming her own person since she was jilted two years ago. She wants to be more independent with the knowledge that comes from life experiences. Thomas's character is more fleshed out than Jane's. I identified more with the hero than the heroine. Percy plays a secondary character. He forms a relationship with Daffy, a man from among his economist friends. The plot is pretty straightforward. There appears there will be a fifth book to the series so there are some loose ends, but nothing too noticeable to throw the current story out of whack and feel like a cliffhanger. The dialgue fit the characters. I've enjoyed the Hazards of Dukes series and look forward to the next novel. Adult situations and language.
June 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this! It was a quick read, but that doesn't mean it was any less enjoyable. The romance wasn't particularly compelling, but I really enjoyed all of the characters on their own.
I haven't read the other books in this series, but I feel like this read well as a standalone. I would consider revisiting this series if Percy or Alice get a book, but I'm not compelled to read the prior books.
I didn't love the romance as I never felt the chemistry. I'm growing to realize that I don't like the naive heroine trope, and this relied on it heavily. It wasn't unbearable, but it did lesson my enjoyment slightly.
Putting that aside, I really loved our side characters. Miss Grosvenor, Alice, and Percy were all super interesting. I wish they were explored more in this one, as they could've played a much larger part.
I don't typically read historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this one! I loved the atmosphere, and I really enjoyed the characters.
Thanks to Megan Frampton and Netgalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
I haven't read the other books in this series, but I feel like this read well as a standalone. I would consider revisiting this series if Percy or Alice get a book, but I'm not compelled to read the prior books.
I didn't love the romance as I never felt the chemistry. I'm growing to realize that I don't like the naive heroine trope, and this relied on it heavily. It wasn't unbearable, but it did lesson my enjoyment slightly.
Putting that aside, I really loved our side characters. Miss Grosvenor, Alice, and Percy were all super interesting. I wish they were explored more in this one, as they could've played a much larger part.
I don't typically read historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this one! I loved the atmosphere, and I really enjoyed the characters.
Thanks to Megan Frampton and Netgalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review
August 8, 2021
Absolutely loved this book!! Everything about it was perfect! The characters were remarkable. Thomas & Jane get up to some wickedly adventurous times during their exchange of services. This book is on fire in the chemistry department and the heat between the characters is blazing hot!!
I feared there would be no HEA for Thomas & Jane — but Author Megan Frampton brought this book to a very satisfying conclusion!! Megan Frampton has been added to my favorite authors list and will forever be an auto-buy!!
Full RTC — Don’t miss this book!!!!
P.S. Did you see that cover?! Sexy as hell cover which is perfect for this story!!
I feared there would be no HEA for Thomas & Jane — but Author Megan Frampton brought this book to a very satisfying conclusion!! Megan Frampton has been added to my favorite authors list and will forever be an auto-buy!!
Full RTC — Don’t miss this book!!!!
P.S. Did you see that cover?! Sexy as hell cover which is perfect for this story!!
July 4, 2022
I’m normally a fan of Megan Frampton but I’ve read this trope numerous times and I had trouble getting into it. That and the insta-lust between Thomas and Jane kept me from loving it.
*I received an eARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an eARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
While this is a part of a series, you do not have to read the prior stories to enjoy this one. Prior characters and situations arise from them but the author did a great job of keeping the story interesting and flowing. I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not reading the prior stories.
Now let me just say that you will need a tall cold drink to cool you off during some scenes. This story is scintillating! The author did such a fabulous job in crafting the plot, that I was glued to my hot e-reader! My emotions were all over the place here. There were some hilariously funny scenes, HOT sexy scenes and very poignant scenes. I was turning pages faster and faster to see what these two were going to do next. Unfortunately the consequence of that is the book eventually ended. Now I am depressed as I feel like I have lost two good friends!
I adored the story being written in my favorite dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into both of the characters' thoughts really helped me to connect and fully feel for them. I really felt like I was right there next to them during the scenes.
I will definitely have to go back and read this series as I have not done so.
While this is a part of a series, you do not have to read the prior stories to enjoy this one. Prior characters and situations arise from them but the author did a great job of keeping the story interesting and flowing. I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not reading the prior stories.
Now let me just say that you will need a tall cold drink to cool you off during some scenes. This story is scintillating! The author did such a fabulous job in crafting the plot, that I was glued to my hot e-reader! My emotions were all over the place here. There were some hilariously funny scenes, HOT sexy scenes and very poignant scenes. I was turning pages faster and faster to see what these two were going to do next. Unfortunately the consequence of that is the book eventually ended. Now I am depressed as I feel like I have lost two good friends!
I adored the story being written in my favorite dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into both of the characters' thoughts really helped me to connect and fully feel for them. I really felt like I was right there next to them during the scenes.
I will definitely have to go back and read this series as I have not done so.
July 5, 2022
How could a book about an agreement for lessons in debauchery be so dull? Maybe it is the completely unlikeable characters? See, Jane and Thomas are just too beautiful. It's exhausting being so better looking than everyone else. An inner monologue has Jane reflecting that she is so perfect, maybe she should cultivate a flaw? The trouble is, she can't think of one. Thomas is a remarkable lover, as he reminds the reader many, many, many times. He's the most charming man in London, why won't anyone marry him? After her broken engagement, Jane has been disowned by her parents so she moves in with her half-brother. She's tired of being the boring good-girl and makes an agreement with Thomas to show her all she's missing in exchange for helping him to find a wealthy bride. Thomas's family is broke and they are depending on him to marry money to support them. What are the two most gorgeous but poor people in the world to do? Do you care? I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
January 24, 2022
I have read 8 of Megan Frampton's books. One was very good: "The Lady Is Daring." Most were mediocre...but this last one is horrible. Writing style is fine. It's everything else that is appalling.
1) The characters are one dimensional, twisted to justify the absurd plot.
2) The plot is so unrealistic as to be laughable. This is the most contrived novel I've ever read. The social norms especially are distorted and ignored, just so the ridiculous events could take place.
3) No sense of time or place. Just improbable events against a blank backdrop.
4) The HEA is truly absurd. The only way it could actually happen this way is if the main characters lived within a vacuum with no social or familial constraints.
There is one redeeming quality: the sex scenes. They escalate from sensual to "hot" to kinky. (Redeeming if you like implausible kink in mainstream Regency London.)
But this one favorable quality is not enough to entice me to EVER read another Megan Frampton novel.
1) The characters are one dimensional, twisted to justify the absurd plot.
2) The plot is so unrealistic as to be laughable. This is the most contrived novel I've ever read. The social norms especially are distorted and ignored, just so the ridiculous events could take place.
3) No sense of time or place. Just improbable events against a blank backdrop.
4) The HEA is truly absurd. The only way it could actually happen this way is if the main characters lived within a vacuum with no social or familial constraints.
There is one redeeming quality: the sex scenes. They escalate from sensual to "hot" to kinky. (Redeeming if you like implausible kink in mainstream Regency London.)
But this one favorable quality is not enough to entice me to EVER read another Megan Frampton novel.
May 9, 2021
I recieved a free copy if this book in exchange for an honest review. To be completely honest, I did not finish this book. It is a decent book and if you like historical romance you should enjoy this; I was just bored. The book isn't bad by any means it just isn't anything new, if you are new to historical romance I recomwnd giving this one a try.
November 23, 2021
After being jilted by her fiance years prior, Jane has disappeared into the background of the ton. Thomas, on the other hand, is quite well known for his charm and good looks, but has no money to bring to a marriage, and the need to wed an heiress in order to keep his family afloat. The two of them make a Classic Sex Deal, which allows Jane to get a taste of freedom while Thomas gets introduced to eligible young heiresses.
This was my first Frampton read, and I definitely plan on reading more from her. The book had a fun, romcom-y tone, without being too sweet or too comedic. There was a surprising amount of eroticism to the novel; it's not that I didn't think Frampton had it in her, but rather than the tone was so light that I wondered at first if this would be less on the sexy side. Nope--nothing to worry about there! There's an especially interesting scene in a hot air balloon... (And a sex club! I love it when they go to sex clubs in historicals.)
Another thing I really appreciated about the book is that Frampton made an effort to include a queer character, who doesn't suffer and doesn't mope and is generally a great addition. I've seen a lot of discussion of queer characters in historical romances lately, and how "difficult" it apparently is to give them happy storylines. Frampton proved that it can be done, and without difficulty. I would love to see her write a book with a queer romance at its core next time; the one we have in Gentleman Seeks Bride is a subplot, but she could potentially give us more of it in a novella in the future.
If I was going to critique anything, I would say that the book could have delved a bit further in terms of character development. It's a fairly simple, straightforward love story, without a lot at stake. As an angst hound I do kind of miss having a bit more drama happening; but at the same time, this was a nice change of pace. I feel like it would be a perfect palate cleanser if you're in the midst of a reading slump, or perhaps dealing with a particularly sad or angsty read.
Overall, I would wholeheartedly recommend this to historical romcom fans, especially if they're in the mood for a cozy, friends to lovers vibe. I definitely plan on trying more from Frampton in the future.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Frampton read, and I definitely plan on reading more from her. The book had a fun, romcom-y tone, without being too sweet or too comedic. There was a surprising amount of eroticism to the novel; it's not that I didn't think Frampton had it in her, but rather than the tone was so light that I wondered at first if this would be less on the sexy side. Nope--nothing to worry about there! There's an especially interesting scene in a hot air balloon... (And a sex club! I love it when they go to sex clubs in historicals.)
Another thing I really appreciated about the book is that Frampton made an effort to include a queer character, who doesn't suffer and doesn't mope and is generally a great addition. I've seen a lot of discussion of queer characters in historical romances lately, and how "difficult" it apparently is to give them happy storylines. Frampton proved that it can be done, and without difficulty. I would love to see her write a book with a queer romance at its core next time; the one we have in Gentleman Seeks Bride is a subplot, but she could potentially give us more of it in a novella in the future.
If I was going to critique anything, I would say that the book could have delved a bit further in terms of character development. It's a fairly simple, straightforward love story, without a lot at stake. As an angst hound I do kind of miss having a bit more drama happening; but at the same time, this was a nice change of pace. I feel like it would be a perfect palate cleanser if you're in the midst of a reading slump, or perhaps dealing with a particularly sad or angsty read.
Overall, I would wholeheartedly recommend this to historical romcom fans, especially if they're in the mood for a cozy, friends to lovers vibe. I definitely plan on trying more from Frampton in the future.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2021
Thomas Sharpe must find an heiress to marry - and soon - to care for his family after his father made some bad investments. In London, he meets Lady Jane Capel. Cut off from her family after her fiance jilted her, Jane has been living with her half-brother, and Thomas' best friend, and is determined to shed her former life and become more worldly. When they run into each other at Miss Ivy's gambling club, Jane promises to help Thomas find an heiress, if he shows her all the things she wants to experience.
They grow close as they navigate London's ballrooms and underworld (and the bedroom)l despite her overprotective brother and complicated family situation. Throughout it all, Thomas remains determined to marry for money, despite the chemistry (and obvious love) between him and Jane.
It was refreshing that the book did not use a lack of communication as the main conflict, but rather the fact that Thomas needed to marry for money and Jane had none. Although this point was made a little excessively. As it is, it's hard to forget that it's the main reason they can't be together, but it was constantly repeated, especially in Thomas' narrative. It was fun to get a little of the brother's best friend trope too, it was a slightly different spin on it, being in a historical context.
The 4th book in the "Hazards of Dukes' series, "Gentleman Seeks Bride" is a standalone novel. It is helpful to read the previous book, "as it contains Jane's origin story. Without that background, Jane's character can fall a little flat. There is also a side-plot of the conflict between her and her family, which really begins in "A Wicked Bargain for the Duke", and contains another depiction of her mother, which is some additional context for their fracture.
Overall, this is a fun, spicy book to read. It's not my favorite in the series, but it was very satisfying to get a happy ending for Jane. 3.5 stars
They grow close as they navigate London's ballrooms and underworld (and the bedroom)l despite her overprotective brother and complicated family situation. Throughout it all, Thomas remains determined to marry for money, despite the chemistry (and obvious love) between him and Jane.
It was refreshing that the book did not use a lack of communication as the main conflict, but rather the fact that Thomas needed to marry for money and Jane had none. Although this point was made a little excessively. As it is, it's hard to forget that it's the main reason they can't be together, but it was constantly repeated, especially in Thomas' narrative. It was fun to get a little of the brother's best friend trope too, it was a slightly different spin on it, being in a historical context.
The 4th book in the "Hazards of Dukes' series, "Gentleman Seeks Bride" is a standalone novel. It is helpful to read the previous book, "as it contains Jane's origin story. Without that background, Jane's character can fall a little flat. There is also a side-plot of the conflict between her and her family, which really begins in "A Wicked Bargain for the Duke", and contains another depiction of her mother, which is some additional context for their fracture.
Overall, this is a fun, spicy book to read. It's not my favorite in the series, but it was very satisfying to get a happy ending for Jane. 3.5 stars
November 30, 2021
Megan Frampton flips a classic trope in “Gentleman Seeks Bride” and it is adventurous and steamy! In book four of the Hazards of Dukes series, very charming and extremely handsome Mr. Thomas Sharpe decided to seek a wealthy bride to save his parents and his sister from utter poverty after his father’s bad investment two years ago. Gorgeous bookworm Lady Jane Capel was jilted and was cut-off from her parents financially when she decided to move in with her beloved half-brother, Percy, two years ago. A fortuitous meeting between Thomas and his best friend’s sister, Jane, at a gambling club turned into a business agreement. Jane would help Thomas find a wealthy bride, and he would bring her to places not meant for a debutante and educate her in intimacy.
I loved the characters in this book. Thomas had honorable intentions yet he felt gutted for feeling selfish for many reasons. He was also kind towards wallflowers, and he was generous in bed (wink)! Jane made a decision to live the way she needed to and experienced what she wanted to. Percy knew the least scandalous part of the agreement and had them promise not to fall in love with each other. Their sister Lavinia knew the most scandalous part and was excited for Jane.
In case you get excited yourself, prepare yourselves before reading. Frampton gave us steamy scenes such as the hot hot-air balloon ride, self-loving, and experiencing “The Center for Delightful and Unusual Events.” Wow!
If you enjoy reading about intimacy lessons, my best friend’s sister, my brother’s best friend, breached contracts, and choosing love then this book is for you!
Thank you to Net Galley, Avon, and Harper Voyager US for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I loved the characters in this book. Thomas had honorable intentions yet he felt gutted for feeling selfish for many reasons. He was also kind towards wallflowers, and he was generous in bed (wink)! Jane made a decision to live the way she needed to and experienced what she wanted to. Percy knew the least scandalous part of the agreement and had them promise not to fall in love with each other. Their sister Lavinia knew the most scandalous part and was excited for Jane.
In case you get excited yourself, prepare yourselves before reading. Frampton gave us steamy scenes such as the hot hot-air balloon ride, self-loving, and experiencing “The Center for Delightful and Unusual Events.” Wow!
If you enjoy reading about intimacy lessons, my best friend’s sister, my brother’s best friend, breached contracts, and choosing love then this book is for you!
Thank you to Net Galley, Avon, and Harper Voyager US for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
December 1, 2021
Thomas Sharpe needs a wealthy bride. He’s handsome and charismatic, but his father lost their family wealth on a bad investment. Lady Jane Capel was jilted by a no-good-ex-fiancé and her parents cut her off financially. She’s living with her half-brother and trying to figure out what she wants from her life. Jane offers to help her brother’s friend, Thomas, make a match, in exchange for showing her all the things in life that men get to enjoy but young ladies are sheltered from…including intimacy!
This is the fourth book in the Hazards of Dukes series. Jane is the sister of book three heroine, Lavinia. Jane’s backstory is largely left out of this novel, so readers may want to read the previous story, A Wicked Bargain for the Duke, to find out about Jane’s failed betrothal.
I thought Thomas was the better developed character here. Often in romance novels, the female lead needs to marry to save the family but this time it was our hero. His parents are aging, he has a frightfully shy sister, and he needs to step up to the marriage plate in order to take care of everyone. He thought marrying for a dowry would be easy but, two years later, he’s no closer to finding a wife. Thomas has a pretty face but is deemed too flirtatious and not serious enough to settle down with. Enter Jane, his best friend’s sister, who would be an excellent choice…if only she hadn’t been disowned.
This book is not for the pearl-clutchers! Jane and Thomas have a strong physical connection and they make use of it…repeatedly. From hot air balloon caresses to visiting a voyeur club, this book is definitely high steam. Give this one a shot if you like sexy stories that put a different spin on a popular trope.
~ Leslie
This is the fourth book in the Hazards of Dukes series. Jane is the sister of book three heroine, Lavinia. Jane’s backstory is largely left out of this novel, so readers may want to read the previous story, A Wicked Bargain for the Duke, to find out about Jane’s failed betrothal.
I thought Thomas was the better developed character here. Often in romance novels, the female lead needs to marry to save the family but this time it was our hero. His parents are aging, he has a frightfully shy sister, and he needs to step up to the marriage plate in order to take care of everyone. He thought marrying for a dowry would be easy but, two years later, he’s no closer to finding a wife. Thomas has a pretty face but is deemed too flirtatious and not serious enough to settle down with. Enter Jane, his best friend’s sister, who would be an excellent choice…if only she hadn’t been disowned.
This book is not for the pearl-clutchers! Jane and Thomas have a strong physical connection and they make use of it…repeatedly. From hot air balloon caresses to visiting a voyeur club, this book is definitely high steam. Give this one a shot if you like sexy stories that put a different spin on a popular trope.
~ Leslie
December 1, 2021
Maybe 3.5 stars
Two years ago Lady Jane Chapel’s life took a nose-dive when she refused to marry the man her parents choose and then the man she was secretly betrothed to dumped her. She left her parent's home and moved in with her illegitimate half-brother Percy, hoping that she will figure out what she will do with her life, starting by standing up for herself and no longer playing the meek and mild lady.
Likewise, Thomas Sharpe’s life also took a turn for the worse when his father lost the family’s fortune in a bad investment. Thomas decides that he will save his family by marrying an heiress, but after two years of trying to find a rich bride, he is no closer to the altar than he was when he started. Too bad his best friend, Percy’s sister is not rich, because he is more than a little attracted to her.
Jane might not be rich, but she offers to help Thomas find a bride if he will help her learn about intimacy. They strike a bargain they will help each other, and they most definitely won’t fall in love!
This was a well-written, well-paced friends-to-lovers story, but it fell a bit flat for me. The trope is not new, but there was a twist of Thomas having to save his family rather than that role falling to the heroine, but the fact that he had to marry for money was repeated way too much, I understood that from the start, I don’t need to be reminded over and over and over again. On the upside, Thomas and Jane give the book plenty of sizzle and really are perfect for each other. This book is the fourth book in the series, and since Jane’s backstory is not really covered in detail, I would recommend reading at least the previous book before starting this one. Overall, this was a decent read that I enjoyed, but wouldn’t consider re-reading it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Two years ago Lady Jane Chapel’s life took a nose-dive when she refused to marry the man her parents choose and then the man she was secretly betrothed to dumped her. She left her parent's home and moved in with her illegitimate half-brother Percy, hoping that she will figure out what she will do with her life, starting by standing up for herself and no longer playing the meek and mild lady.
Likewise, Thomas Sharpe’s life also took a turn for the worse when his father lost the family’s fortune in a bad investment. Thomas decides that he will save his family by marrying an heiress, but after two years of trying to find a rich bride, he is no closer to the altar than he was when he started. Too bad his best friend, Percy’s sister is not rich, because he is more than a little attracted to her.
Jane might not be rich, but she offers to help Thomas find a bride if he will help her learn about intimacy. They strike a bargain they will help each other, and they most definitely won’t fall in love!
This was a well-written, well-paced friends-to-lovers story, but it fell a bit flat for me. The trope is not new, but there was a twist of Thomas having to save his family rather than that role falling to the heroine, but the fact that he had to marry for money was repeated way too much, I understood that from the start, I don’t need to be reminded over and over and over again. On the upside, Thomas and Jane give the book plenty of sizzle and really are perfect for each other. This book is the fourth book in the series, and since Jane’s backstory is not really covered in detail, I would recommend reading at least the previous book before starting this one. Overall, this was a decent read that I enjoyed, but wouldn’t consider re-reading it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews