What do you think?
Rate this book
Mischief in Mayfair #2
Miss Delightful
Miss Dorcas Delancey, vicar’s daughter and advocate for the less fortunate, has been guarding her heart from fortune hunters and fashionable fribbles for years. She’s completely unprepared for Alasdhair MacKay, former officer and all around grouch, to steal that heart. But when Alasdhair takes on responsibility for a motherless infant whom Dorcas’s family won’t acknowledge, she sees the honor lurking beneath his gruff mannerisms.
Alasdhair MacKay did not storm hell with Wellington’s army just so he could drink, swive, and flirt his way through life after Waterloo. He’s serious, intelligent, and passionate about his causes–also passionate in his regard for Dorcas. He’s the man of her dreams and a paragon in plaid, but looming scandal means Dorcas will have to choose between love and the honor Alasdhair so relentlessly values.
Alasdhair MacKay did not storm hell with Wellington’s army just so he could drink, swive, and flirt his way through life after Waterloo. He’s serious, intelligent, and passionate about his causes–also passionate in his regard for Dorcas. He’s the man of her dreams and a paragon in plaid, but looming scandal means Dorcas will have to choose between love and the honor Alasdhair so relentlessly values.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2021
205 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
190 books2,914 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 1, 2021
Not bad, but I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first book in the series. This one started off well, but I got a bit frustrated by some of the actions of the MCs later in the book. I also got a bit sick of the bad guy and his shenanigans.
Hoping the next book when it comes out is better.
Hoping the next book when it comes out is better.
November 5, 2021
*** Caution:***
A man forced seduction, via extortion, in the past.
Regency England. Thanks to HappyBookWorm 2020 for
her + impression of this book.
Did Melanie fall or was she pushed into the Thames River?
Who sired her 6 month old baby? Alasdhair, a former Army
Major & Dorcas, daughter and sister of a vicar, tried to solve
the mystery. Dorcas felt a man took advantage of her cousin
Melanie. Melanie named Alasdhair the guardian of her baby
w/o his prior knowledge. Melanie & Al were friends only.
The hero showed consideration and maturity towards the
heroine. What a guy! He didn't forgive himself for witness-
ing and not stopping a horrid event in his past. He tried
to make amends.
The father of Dorcus left most of the responsibility of his
congregation in her care. The baddie manipulated others.
The hero found the 'dirt' on him & he + others confronted
the baddie.
The MCs were true equals & crazy about each other. He had
close male cousins.
A man forced seduction, via extortion, in the past.
Regency England. Thanks to HappyBookWorm 2020 for
her + impression of this book.
Did Melanie fall or was she pushed into the Thames River?
Who sired her 6 month old baby? Alasdhair, a former Army
Major & Dorcas, daughter and sister of a vicar, tried to solve
the mystery. Dorcas felt a man took advantage of her cousin
Melanie. Melanie named Alasdhair the guardian of her baby
w/o his prior knowledge. Melanie & Al were friends only.
The hero showed consideration and maturity towards the
heroine. What a guy! He didn't forgive himself for witness-
ing and not stopping a horrid event in his past. He tried
to make amends.
The father of Dorcus left most of the responsibility of his
congregation in her care. The baddie manipulated others.
The hero found the 'dirt' on him & he + others confronted
the baddie.
The MCs were true equals & crazy about each other. He had
close male cousins.
August 31, 2021
Confirmed spinster and vicar’s daughter, Miss Dorcas Delancey, appears at the door of former military officer Alasdhair MacKay bearing her cousin’s abandoned infant, leaving the babe in his care. While initially resistant to welcoming the child into his bachelor home, Alasdhair soon falls in love with the boy. So begins a friendship between Dorcas and Alasdhair that grows into much more, due to their mutual concern for the babe, as well as their passion for social causes, especially improving the lives of women who resort to prostitution to survive. When rising star in her father’s Church, Isaiah Mornebeth, threatens Dorcas and her family with an extortion plot, Dorcas plans to sacrifice herself once again and turn away from the man she has come to love in order to save her brother’s reputation. In each of Ms. Burrowes wonderful stories, there comes a moment when the reader abandons all hope for an HEA, understanding that there simply is no possible resolution to the barriers standing between the H and h. But, inevitably, an ingenious solution appears and the reader is left not only satisfied, but delighted! Ms. Burrowes writes beautiful prose, believable dialog, and weaves intricate story lines that will keep the reader enthralled. I highly recommend Miss Delightful, a stand-alone story and a lovely addition to the Mayhem in Mayfair series. This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.
September 23, 2021
TW: coercion, assault
Tags: Christian themes, kid fic
I’m not sure if this was a case of the wrong book at the wrong time, but this was tiresome to get through and contrary to the title, not at all delightful. It reads a little like an Agatha Christie, so it shouldve been right up my alley and yet...
The rating is for Burrowes’ world-building and the honorable hero , but this novel wasnt light and the prose is different to her previous novels.
Despite the compatible couple, there’s no levity to break up the plot. Its just continually sad. I’ve talked about Burrowes and her “topic of the day” approach to novels before. This one seems to be about the plight of women in society and the hypocrisy of premarital sex.
All this talk about “fallen women” and Claude Frollo-esque villains was too realistic for me to take lightly. And, as is my problem with many of her novels, the scoundrels never get their adequate punishment. At least in fantasy, I wish she would let me relish justice.
While I applaud Burrowes for putting a new spin on her work, I might not follow her into this new era.
Tags: Christian themes, kid fic
I’m not sure if this was a case of the wrong book at the wrong time, but this was tiresome to get through and contrary to the title, not at all delightful. It reads a little like an Agatha Christie, so it shouldve been right up my alley and yet...
The rating is for Burrowes’ world-building and the honorable hero , but this novel wasnt light and the prose is different to her previous novels.
Despite the compatible couple, there’s no levity to break up the plot. Its just continually sad. I’ve talked about Burrowes and her “topic of the day” approach to novels before. This one seems to be about the plight of women in society and the hypocrisy of premarital sex.
All this talk about “fallen women” and Claude Frollo-esque villains was too realistic for me to take lightly. And, as is my problem with many of her novels, the scoundrels never get their adequate punishment. At least in fantasy, I wish she would let me relish justice.
While I applaud Burrowes for putting a new spin on her work, I might not follow her into this new era.
November 22, 2021
Truly delightful. I enjoyed every moment!
February 1, 2022
Dorcas is a terrible name to burden a lady with but that is now and this was the early 1800s. I loved her. She was honest and straight forward almost to a fault. She was in a difficult situation but was so honorable and loyal I couldn't fault her. Alasdhair was a similarly honest and straight-forward person. Also almost to a fault. I loved him too. I was routing for these two and that rarely happens. I knew there would be a happy ending but the suspense was real.
Her situation was one of making a decision that came back to haunt her. Many will say her situation was of her own doing but I would counter that she made the best decision she knew to make and had she not, the situation could have been worse. Much worse. So I do not hold her responsible for her dire straits.
I loved this story and this couple. There was no over dramatization and no stupidity. Just real situations and two people trying to do the right thing.
Her situation was one of making a decision that came back to haunt her. Many will say her situation was of her own doing but I would counter that she made the best decision she knew to make and had she not, the situation could have been worse. Much worse. So I do not hold her responsible for her dire straits.
I loved this story and this couple. There was no over dramatization and no stupidity. Just real situations and two people trying to do the right thing.
August 27, 2021
ARC from the author
Another sweet and slow Burrowes romance with an older heroine who is not a virgin.
Alasdhair MacKay is positively delightful! A gruff and stalwart Scot with a tender heart and oodles of honor.
The villain of the piece, as usual for a Burrowes book, is appallingly evil yet believable, sadly.
This is a soft and dreamy slip into romance for two characters who Burrowes has put through the ringer. A tonic during these stressful times!
Another sweet and slow Burrowes romance with an older heroine who is not a virgin.
Alasdhair MacKay is positively delightful! A gruff and stalwart Scot with a tender heart and oodles of honor.
The villain of the piece, as usual for a Burrowes book, is appallingly evil yet believable, sadly.
This is a soft and dreamy slip into romance for two characters who Burrowes has put through the ringer. A tonic during these stressful times!
February 12, 2023
The h is delightful, ignored by her father as she works tirelessly for him and others. The H believes needs to atone for actions by British army. When they meet, they both fall in love but evil OM disrupts their relationship. I loved this couple and their angsty situation.
September 15, 2021
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-1xJ
Alasdhair MacKay, former army major, has been a changed man since he returned from battle. While the war in total was horrific, Alasdhair bears extreme guilt over an incident perpetuated by his commanding officer, one which Alasdhair feels he should have stopped. To try and compensate, he no longer drinks to excess, gambles, or dallies with the ladies. In fact, he is constantly providing aid and cash to fallen women. When an avenging angel arrives at his door, baby in arms, telling him that he needs to care for his child, he knows the infant is not his.
Dorcas Delancey is the daughter of, and sister to, vicars. She works tirelessly for her father’s parish, as well as furthering her own causes. When her cousin, Melanie, eloped, then failed to marry, just like scores of other women, she ended up selling her body to make ends meet. Eventually Melanie bore a son, John, and did her best to care for him. Apparently, the situation became too dire for Melanie to handle, and it appears that she chose to end her own life, leaving her child in the care of Alasdhair, a man who had shown her kindness. Dorcas has had to meet her cousin secretly, as such a scandalous relation would be a blot on the vicar’s career, and he would never approve. Knowing that she can’t care for the baby, Dorcas delivers him to Alasdhair, per Melanie’s wishes.
Of course Alasdhair denies paternity, but is finally worn down by a determined Dorcas to care for John until he can arrange a permanent situation for him. Thus, Alasdhair and Dorcas are thrown together quite a bit, thanks to baby John. Dorcas is a strong, no-nonsense kind of woman, who has never married. She is invaluable to her father, who shows her a casual affection without expressing any real deep appreciation for all she does. Her prickly nature has earned her the sarcastic nickname of “Miss Delightful” when her nature is anything but. It seems, however, that Alasdhair loves a strong, managing type of woman, and is coming to find Dorcas delightful indeed. As for Dorcas, she sees the good man that Alasdhair is, and when he confesses his guilt and failings, she offers him comfort, and helps him to begin to live with himself much better. Liking turns to love, love turns to passion, and soon Alasdhair realizes that he’s found the woman for him. He announces his intention of courting and marrying Dorcas, who realizes that she’s found a man who will support her in her causes and love her for who she is.
Of course, things cannot be wrapped up so easily. Dorcas has an unfortunate and tragic incident in her past, one which rears its ugly head in the form of Isaiah Mornebeth, a snake in the grass disguised as a vicar, one who wields much influence, one who threatens the careers and reputations of Dorcas’s brother and father. He’s the lowest kind of villain, one who makes your skin crawl, by pretending to be a righteous man, while being just the opposite. His plans involve Dorcas, and they certainly don’t allow her to marry Alasdhair. Isaiah forced her to his will years ago, and has no doubt he can do so again.
I love how the hero and heroine are not your typical characters – both are a bit older – Dorcas is twenty-nine, and Alasdhair is a battle weary soldier. Neither expected to ever find someone to love and marry. For some reason, I always enjoy characters who are a bit crusty, without being over the top obnoxious, and Dorcas and Alasdhair are certainly that, but also can express great love and tenderness toward each other. I appreciate how Alasdhair would not give up, and came up with a rescue plan, although it didn’t happen immediately. The romance and passion between the couple is strong and sweet. The villain is totally deplorable, and I’m bloodthirsty enough to wish even more misfortune on him. MISS DELIGHTFUL, while part of a series, reads perfectly well as a standalone, and delivers everything I’ve come to expect from Grace Burrowes – warmth, love, comfort, and a beautiful happy ever after.
Alasdhair MacKay, former army major, has been a changed man since he returned from battle. While the war in total was horrific, Alasdhair bears extreme guilt over an incident perpetuated by his commanding officer, one which Alasdhair feels he should have stopped. To try and compensate, he no longer drinks to excess, gambles, or dallies with the ladies. In fact, he is constantly providing aid and cash to fallen women. When an avenging angel arrives at his door, baby in arms, telling him that he needs to care for his child, he knows the infant is not his.
Dorcas Delancey is the daughter of, and sister to, vicars. She works tirelessly for her father’s parish, as well as furthering her own causes. When her cousin, Melanie, eloped, then failed to marry, just like scores of other women, she ended up selling her body to make ends meet. Eventually Melanie bore a son, John, and did her best to care for him. Apparently, the situation became too dire for Melanie to handle, and it appears that she chose to end her own life, leaving her child in the care of Alasdhair, a man who had shown her kindness. Dorcas has had to meet her cousin secretly, as such a scandalous relation would be a blot on the vicar’s career, and he would never approve. Knowing that she can’t care for the baby, Dorcas delivers him to Alasdhair, per Melanie’s wishes.
Of course Alasdhair denies paternity, but is finally worn down by a determined Dorcas to care for John until he can arrange a permanent situation for him. Thus, Alasdhair and Dorcas are thrown together quite a bit, thanks to baby John. Dorcas is a strong, no-nonsense kind of woman, who has never married. She is invaluable to her father, who shows her a casual affection without expressing any real deep appreciation for all she does. Her prickly nature has earned her the sarcastic nickname of “Miss Delightful” when her nature is anything but. It seems, however, that Alasdhair loves a strong, managing type of woman, and is coming to find Dorcas delightful indeed. As for Dorcas, she sees the good man that Alasdhair is, and when he confesses his guilt and failings, she offers him comfort, and helps him to begin to live with himself much better. Liking turns to love, love turns to passion, and soon Alasdhair realizes that he’s found the woman for him. He announces his intention of courting and marrying Dorcas, who realizes that she’s found a man who will support her in her causes and love her for who she is.
Of course, things cannot be wrapped up so easily. Dorcas has an unfortunate and tragic incident in her past, one which rears its ugly head in the form of Isaiah Mornebeth, a snake in the grass disguised as a vicar, one who wields much influence, one who threatens the careers and reputations of Dorcas’s brother and father. He’s the lowest kind of villain, one who makes your skin crawl, by pretending to be a righteous man, while being just the opposite. His plans involve Dorcas, and they certainly don’t allow her to marry Alasdhair. Isaiah forced her to his will years ago, and has no doubt he can do so again.
I love how the hero and heroine are not your typical characters – both are a bit older – Dorcas is twenty-nine, and Alasdhair is a battle weary soldier. Neither expected to ever find someone to love and marry. For some reason, I always enjoy characters who are a bit crusty, without being over the top obnoxious, and Dorcas and Alasdhair are certainly that, but also can express great love and tenderness toward each other. I appreciate how Alasdhair would not give up, and came up with a rescue plan, although it didn’t happen immediately. The romance and passion between the couple is strong and sweet. The villain is totally deplorable, and I’m bloodthirsty enough to wish even more misfortune on him. MISS DELIGHTFUL, while part of a series, reads perfectly well as a standalone, and delivers everything I’ve come to expect from Grace Burrowes – warmth, love, comfort, and a beautiful happy ever after.
December 20, 2021
Stretching this to 3 stars. Not exactly sure why I didn't like this one as much as #1 in this series Miss Delectable. Maybe it's just the year-end gloomies. Will undoubtedly read again, before #3 comes out in a few months.
December 27, 2021
Burrowes is a comfort author for me, and this book did not sit well. I didn't buy the excess of manipulations, not when Dorcas had tons of support available to her and a lot of options other than the worst possible. I hate it when even the strongest female characters are written as sacrificing themselves for others, in a way that is the least necessary. She holds people accountable publicly but somehow can't hold specific people accountable until literally forced to? Nah.
I had to skim half of this one because it was so frustrating. I hope the next in the series is better, though this formula of arrogant villains who never really get their comeuppance is getting old. At least make them more complex and interesting if 20% if the book is from their perspective. There's nothing redeemable about this villain, so it's just boring and gross in comparison to the other more interesting characters and themes of the book.
I'm tired of wannabe martyrs. It's boring.
I had to skim half of this one because it was so frustrating. I hope the next in the series is better, though this formula of arrogant villains who never really get their comeuppance is getting old. At least make them more complex and interesting if 20% if the book is from their perspective. There's nothing redeemable about this villain, so it's just boring and gross in comparison to the other more interesting characters and themes of the book.
I'm tired of wannabe martyrs. It's boring.
September 27, 2021
McKay, of the Mischief in Mayfair cousins, is haunted by an incident of war. He also suffers from syncope when he skips a meal. When a woman arrives at his door one day with a very unexpected surprise, he is thrust into guardianship of a vary young charge- weeks old, as a matter of fact. The deliverer, Miss Dorcas Delancey, catches Alasdhair's attention. She is interested in him too. Unfortunately, she is encumbered by the expectations of the congregation her father pastors. As the spinster daughter, she is expected to be the first Lady of the congregation. She has another issue, too, that of a churchman who expects to blackmail the lady into marrying him. The baby's mother also plays a part here, even though she is presumed to be dead. Still a good one, and one cousin is left to find the woman of his dreams.
September 23, 2021
This was a wonderful book to read and to experience. There was a very bad villain and rape of a very young girls involved (main character) but the HERO (in all caps because he was THAT kind of hero) that she needed to explain to her what her life was worth and how she had to "let go" of her family and allow them to muddle along without her taking care of their every need.
This hero was such a wonderful man for her they were like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together perfectly! The book was incredible and I could hardly put it down--A PAGE TURNER for sure!
I am going to get the next book in the series!
This hero was such a wonderful man for her they were like two pieces of a puzzle that fit together perfectly! The book was incredible and I could hardly put it down--A PAGE TURNER for sure!
I am going to get the next book in the series!
January 12, 2022
4.75*
This Dorcas is a similar character to the one in another well known book. Innately good, will do anything for others, but maybe doesn't value herself as much as she should. She finds herself manipulated into horrid situations when her family is threatened but draws strength from Alasdhair and from within herself to escape.
Alasdhair, like so many Grace Burrowes leading men, is someone we'd all like to have in our lives.
Lovely second installment in this series.
This Dorcas is a similar character to the one in another well known book. Innately good, will do anything for others, but maybe doesn't value herself as much as she should. She finds herself manipulated into horrid situations when her family is threatened but draws strength from Alasdhair and from within herself to escape.
Alasdhair, like so many Grace Burrowes leading men, is someone we'd all like to have in our lives.
Lovely second installment in this series.
September 20, 2021
I loved this story, and did not want it to end.
A refreshing change from Dukes and Mayfair ballrooms. The hero of the story is one of 3 former soldiers who are cousins, friends, comrades in arms; good men, all.
The women are strong, but feminine, and worth fighting for. While the books could stand alone, the men are in one another's stories, so be sure to also read "Miss Delectable." I can't wait for the third, "Miss Dignified."
A refreshing change from Dukes and Mayfair ballrooms. The hero of the story is one of 3 former soldiers who are cousins, friends, comrades in arms; good men, all.
The women are strong, but feminine, and worth fighting for. While the books could stand alone, the men are in one another's stories, so be sure to also read "Miss Delectable." I can't wait for the third, "Miss Dignified."
March 5, 2023
Vicar's daughter meets do-gooder whisky distiller when her cousin bequeaths him her baby. She can't take the baby home to dad! She has to browbeat the major a bit, because he knows he will fall in love with the baby. Which is of course what she wants. She starts falling in love with him, watching him with the baby, and the careful care he takes of her. But of course there's a snake in the grass. The snake's comeuppance is quite lovely. I liked this book a lot. Good read.
September 17, 2021
3.5
Dorcas is meh
Mackay is all that is wonderful
But she is...meh
Dorcas is meh
Mackay is all that is wonderful
But she is...meh
March 24, 2022
Alasdhair is delightful although I think somewhat wasted on "woe-is-me" Dorcus. As always the story is full of emotion and a nice afternoon read with a cup of tea.
August 25, 2021
🐍 Miss Delightful 🐍
Mischief in Mayfair Book Two
✒️ Grace Burrowes
https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Burrow...
Release Date 08/24/2021 author’s site, 09/14/2021 mass retailers
Publisher Grace Burrowes Publishing
➪ https://graceburrowes.com/bookshelf/m...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Miss Dorcas Delancey, vicar's daughter and advocate for the less fortunate, has been guarding her heart from fortune hunters and fashionable fribbles for years. She's completely unprepared for Alasdhair MacKay, former officer and all around grouch, to steal that heart. But when Alasdhair takes on responsibility for a motherless infant whom Dorcas's family won't acknowledge, she sees the honor lurking beneath his gruff mannerisms.
Alasdhair MacKay did not storm hell with Wellington's army just so he could drink, swive, and flirt his way through life after Waterloo. He's serious, intelligent, and passionate about his causes--also passionate in his regard for Dorcas. He's the man of her dreams and a paragon in plaid, but looming scandal means Dorcas will have to choose between love and the honor Alasdhair so relentlessly values.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will love be enough when everything one’s protected might crumble down…
After reading Miss Delectable, I have been hooked by this trio of soldiers.
After Goddard the rescuer of lost boys, it is MacKay’s time, the benevolent to women plights and accidentally foster father.
This book is everything the author is renowned for clever and refined writing style, witty banters, multilayered characters and a complex tale with the villain you enjoy to hate and watch fall down.
Alasdhair is everything you can expect from this honorable man, he made his mission to protect in his own way and limited means the women who have fallen on hard times. He does not commiserate for them then turns his eyes, he stands by them, offering what is of use in their needy moments without ever taking advantage of their circumstances.
But a child, he never had to take care of before. Yet he is now the designated guardian of a lively toddler. And worse, it put under his radar the delightful Miss Delancey, a woman who hide under her proper demure appearance the will of a lioness and a core of steel.
Dorcas is the soul behind her father’s success with his congregation. She stands in his shadow even if many are aware of her management. She operates in her own way to help the less fortunate and she meets MacKay in they have made the same vow of helping women left with few means to fend for themselves.
Both are burdened by the wounds of their past, scars that are running deep and altered their view of others. Since they try to atone man’s sins at best of their possibilities and meet in the middle as they awaken in the other the need for more and long buried desires.
But will their love be enough when Dorcas’ world is threatened as she already went very far to save it the first time.
A beautiful and tasty read like the author has the secret recipe, where appearances and propriety hide a nest of snakes in its bosom and demureness wondrous souls.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen sweet lovemaking scenes
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 talk of abuse and rape
https://www.instagram.com/p/CS_WWdgDc...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
Mischief in Mayfair Book Two
✒️ Grace Burrowes
https://www.facebook.com/Grace-Burrow...
Release Date 08/24/2021 author’s site, 09/14/2021 mass retailers
Publisher Grace Burrowes Publishing
➪ https://graceburrowes.com/bookshelf/m...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Miss Dorcas Delancey, vicar's daughter and advocate for the less fortunate, has been guarding her heart from fortune hunters and fashionable fribbles for years. She's completely unprepared for Alasdhair MacKay, former officer and all around grouch, to steal that heart. But when Alasdhair takes on responsibility for a motherless infant whom Dorcas's family won't acknowledge, she sees the honor lurking beneath his gruff mannerisms.
Alasdhair MacKay did not storm hell with Wellington's army just so he could drink, swive, and flirt his way through life after Waterloo. He's serious, intelligent, and passionate about his causes--also passionate in his regard for Dorcas. He's the man of her dreams and a paragon in plaid, but looming scandal means Dorcas will have to choose between love and the honor Alasdhair so relentlessly values.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will love be enough when everything one’s protected might crumble down…
After reading Miss Delectable, I have been hooked by this trio of soldiers.
After Goddard the rescuer of lost boys, it is MacKay’s time, the benevolent to women plights and accidentally foster father.
This book is everything the author is renowned for clever and refined writing style, witty banters, multilayered characters and a complex tale with the villain you enjoy to hate and watch fall down.
Alasdhair is everything you can expect from this honorable man, he made his mission to protect in his own way and limited means the women who have fallen on hard times. He does not commiserate for them then turns his eyes, he stands by them, offering what is of use in their needy moments without ever taking advantage of their circumstances.
But a child, he never had to take care of before. Yet he is now the designated guardian of a lively toddler. And worse, it put under his radar the delightful Miss Delancey, a woman who hide under her proper demure appearance the will of a lioness and a core of steel.
Dorcas is the soul behind her father’s success with his congregation. She stands in his shadow even if many are aware of her management. She operates in her own way to help the less fortunate and she meets MacKay in they have made the same vow of helping women left with few means to fend for themselves.
Both are burdened by the wounds of their past, scars that are running deep and altered their view of others. Since they try to atone man’s sins at best of their possibilities and meet in the middle as they awaken in the other the need for more and long buried desires.
But will their love be enough when Dorcas’ world is threatened as she already went very far to save it the first time.
A beautiful and tasty read like the author has the secret recipe, where appearances and propriety hide a nest of snakes in its bosom and demureness wondrous souls.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen sweet lovemaking scenes
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 talk of abuse and rape
https://www.instagram.com/p/CS_WWdgDc...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
May 2, 2023
The first 65% of the book: 5 stars. The introduction to Alasdhair and Dorcas and the build of their relationship was a thing of beauty. Alasdhair’s treatment of Dorcas and baby John was careful, respectful, and touching, and I was solidly in his corner by the time lack of food and sleep felled him like a wild boar. I felt Dorcas’ frustration and weariness with her assigned and assumed lot as keeper-of-the-house-and-her-father, and I felt her genuine interest in social reform. One is hardly a substitute for the other and I admired her intelligence, determination, and fortitude. The bad guy was satisfyingly atrocious and I wanted him squashed like a bug
The next 20% of the book: 2 stars. All of Dorcas’s intelligence, determination, and fortitude vanished in an instant. The character we had been introduced to in the first part of the book suddenly became stupid, gullible, and easily manipulated. Also a tiny bit heinous: Alasdhair had beseeched her in the beginning not to trifle with him. She had agreed to marry him. Then she showed up at his house, demanded he have sex with her, then gave him the heave-ho. If a guy had done something like that in a romance novel he would be the worst sort of scurrilous villain. The aforementioned bad guy threatened her entire family if she didn’t marry him and she caved, boom, just like that. I HATE it when the author makes a plot point of a choice between ruination or ruination, and the female character idiotically chooses the ruination that will bring her the most unhappiness FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE, dumping a good man in the process. What kind of moron chooses the worst of two bad choices?
The last 15%: 5 stars. Alasdhair decided to grow a pair and interfere in Dorcas’s disastrous and utterly stupid capitulation. The Dorcas from the first 65% of the book showed back up and, with Alasdhair’s assistance, not only avoided either type of ruination but managed to salvage reputations and livelihoods, and squashed the bad guy like a bug. Satisfying, but I’m adamant about subtracting a star for her earlier spinelessness.
The next 20% of the book: 2 stars. All of Dorcas’s intelligence, determination, and fortitude vanished in an instant. The character we had been introduced to in the first part of the book suddenly became stupid, gullible, and easily manipulated. Also a tiny bit heinous: Alasdhair had beseeched her in the beginning not to trifle with him. She had agreed to marry him. Then she showed up at his house, demanded he have sex with her, then gave him the heave-ho. If a guy had done something like that in a romance novel he would be the worst sort of scurrilous villain. The aforementioned bad guy threatened her entire family if she didn’t marry him and she caved, boom, just like that. I HATE it when the author makes a plot point of a choice between ruination or ruination, and the female character idiotically chooses the ruination that will bring her the most unhappiness FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE, dumping a good man in the process. What kind of moron chooses the worst of two bad choices?
The last 15%: 5 stars. Alasdhair decided to grow a pair and interfere in Dorcas’s disastrous and utterly stupid capitulation. The Dorcas from the first 65% of the book showed back up and, with Alasdhair’s assistance, not only avoided either type of ruination but managed to salvage reputations and livelihoods, and squashed the bad guy like a bug. Satisfying, but I’m adamant about subtracting a star for her earlier spinelessness.
December 5, 2022
In some ways I liked this second in the Mischief in Mayfair series even more than the first, and I give it 3.5 stars in reality. it was a fun light entertaining sojourn in the late Regency.
Dorcas is the vicar's spinster daughter of a parish in London. Her mother passed away some years ago, her father spends more time translating Leviticus and the Scriptures than servicing his flock, her older brother Michael is tending a rural parish in Yorkshire, and Dorcas basically runs the parish while crusading for the poor, the streetwalkers, the orphans. When her cousin Melanie appears to have committed suicide by jumping off the Strand Bridge, Dorcas meets the Scotsman Alasdhair when she delivers Melanie's baby son to him given he was named guardian. Let's just say that the chemistry is pretty intense from the beginning, their sharp, witty, often humorous, sparkling conversations fill the book and totally delighted me. Before she and Alasdhair can have their HEA, Dorcas has to learn to forgive herself and embrace her own power, especially when it comes to her guilt over succumbing to the machinations of a really despicable young member of the church. It was fun to see multiple portrayals of different members of the Church of England cloth.
Dorcas is the vicar's spinster daughter of a parish in London. Her mother passed away some years ago, her father spends more time translating Leviticus and the Scriptures than servicing his flock, her older brother Michael is tending a rural parish in Yorkshire, and Dorcas basically runs the parish while crusading for the poor, the streetwalkers, the orphans. When her cousin Melanie appears to have committed suicide by jumping off the Strand Bridge, Dorcas meets the Scotsman Alasdhair when she delivers Melanie's baby son to him given he was named guardian. Let's just say that the chemistry is pretty intense from the beginning, their sharp, witty, often humorous, sparkling conversations fill the book and totally delighted me. Before she and Alasdhair can have their HEA, Dorcas has to learn to forgive herself and embrace her own power, especially when it comes to her guilt over succumbing to the machinations of a really despicable young member of the church. It was fun to see multiple portrayals of different members of the Church of England cloth.
August 29, 2021
Miss Delightful had the usual likable main characters and dastardly villains of a Grace Burrowes novel; please note this villain was truly repulsive. Alas, it also included a rather unfortunate feature of some Burrowes books: I'll be honest, I was really ticked off at some of the choices Dorcas made, especially because she was such a forceful and determined person when fighting for others, though I suppose it is easier to fight for others and sacrifice yourself. There were some interesting conversations on "ruin" and valid social commentary on [performative] Christianity. The discussions of poverty (and its conflation with immorality) are very relevant to today's world.
January 2, 2023
The initial setup made me wary, but we quickly shoot past any danger of "bumbling male doesn't know how to deal with a baby" nonsense, and just get to enjoy Alisdhair having a taste of the future he wants but has been denying himself. Alisdhair has to forgive himself for his past - and so does Dorcas. Haunted by their mistakes, each gets to see themself in their partner's eyes, having had done their best, but now being worthy of better, recognizing the efforts. Again, Burrowes shows us the hero not depending his romantic partner for emotional support, but rather reaching out to his found-family, brother-cousins Orion Goddard (whose romance was told in book one of this series) and Dylan Powell (book three). Dorcas gets to confront her abuser and see justice done for herself and her family, with a little help from Alisdhair and his friends.
September 20, 2021
A great read!
I enjoyed reading about Alasdhair and Dorcas, the way they met to the way they eventually fell in love. This book brought about the way some people are easily manipulated by bad individuals. I'm glad that the weasel was taken care of. I'm also glad in the end that they had their HEA. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤
I enjoyed reading about Alasdhair and Dorcas, the way they met to the way they eventually fell in love. This book brought about the way some people are easily manipulated by bad individuals. I'm glad that the weasel was taken care of. I'm also glad in the end that they had their HEA. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤
November 14, 2021
Alasdhair's love, admiration, and courtly behavior toward Dorcas made this story for me. I could not ask anymore from a book boyfriend. It overcomes Dorcas' contradictory behavior and the narrative about Melanie. The villain's ghastly efforts and manipulations, while jaw dropping, weren't quite satisfying enough to earn a place on my villains-you-love-to-hate list.
March 5, 2022
Boring beyond words. DNF
September 29, 2023
OK you know I love a Highlander and this book has a perfect gentleman ex-military man towering Scotsman who is tormented by his past and has taken a wee lil vow of chastity while he sorts himself out. What could go wrong? Well in scene one, our heroine sashays into his parlor and plops down a wee little baby and sashays back out. Dear reader, when I tell you I was couldn't wait to find out what happened next. This is going in my "fave mini tropes" : woman drops a baby in a man's lap and leaves.
Our heroine is a vicar’s daughter who had a terrible first time (it becomes a big part of the plot) and they’re both tormented and very on edge about their passionate natures in general.
I love the way Grace Burrowes writes historical romance, it just trips off her tongue so naturally you are instantly immersed in the era. What I didn’t necessarily love about this book was how they were friends and then suddenly had feelings for each other. It almost felt like I missed a step somewhere, because I couldn’t really feel the feelings building. Once they had gotten going, it was really wonderful to watch these two tumble into love, but the way there was a bit iffy. This is open door but the passion just didn't feel 100% mostly because there wasn't a lot of yearning and pining to build it up first.
Ms. Burrowes’ novels often have a big mystery subplot and this one is no different. I loved the way she resolved the plot lines, although the villain really should’ve gotten roughed up by Alasdhair at least once! I also don't need the villain's POV and her books lately seem to have at least 3-4 POVs which always just grates on me. Personal preference. But there is no dumb misunderstanding in the third act, which is great - just people quietly sacrificing their joy for the greater good of others and Alasdhair handles bad situations SO perfectly. Ugh, he’s a dish.
There’s a huge cast of characters that I have a feeling are all going to get their own books and I’m here for it. Broken and tormented ex-military men, gimme gimme! 🙌🥹😍
3.5 stars
Our heroine is a vicar’s daughter who had a terrible first time (it becomes a big part of the plot) and they’re both tormented and very on edge about their passionate natures in general.
I love the way Grace Burrowes writes historical romance, it just trips off her tongue so naturally you are instantly immersed in the era. What I didn’t necessarily love about this book was how they were friends and then suddenly had feelings for each other. It almost felt like I missed a step somewhere, because I couldn’t really feel the feelings building. Once they had gotten going, it was really wonderful to watch these two tumble into love, but the way there was a bit iffy. This is open door but the passion just didn't feel 100% mostly because there wasn't a lot of yearning and pining to build it up first.
Ms. Burrowes’ novels often have a big mystery subplot and this one is no different. I loved the way she resolved the plot lines, although the villain really should’ve gotten roughed up by Alasdhair at least once! I also don't need the villain's POV and her books lately seem to have at least 3-4 POVs which always just grates on me. Personal preference. But there is no dumb misunderstanding in the third act, which is great - just people quietly sacrificing their joy for the greater good of others and Alasdhair handles bad situations SO perfectly. Ugh, he’s a dish.
There’s a huge cast of characters that I have a feeling are all going to get their own books and I’m here for it. Broken and tormented ex-military men, gimme gimme! 🙌🥹😍
3.5 stars
November 25, 2021
This is the second book in the series. I liked the first half of the book where the main characters discover each other and fall in love. Dorcas is shown to a be older and a spinster devoted to good causes while Alasdhair suffers from guilt over crimes he witnessed in Badajoz, Spain during the war. He tries to make up for it by saving prostitutes and being celibate. The second half was given over to the problems caused by a horrible villain Isaiah who blackmails the Delancey family. There was sexual abuse and extortions against Dorcas and her brother when they were much younger. I found it unbelievable that such a strong woman would not be able to solve this problem and would fall into a terrible situation for the sake of her family honour.
May 11, 2025
Interesting, relatable characters. Wonderful world-building.
Wonderful plot. It's delightful to watch Alasdhair and Dorcas converse and treat each other with unexpectedly caring familiarity. Their conversations and insightful understanding of each other become more intimate with each interaction. We fall in love with them and a wonderfully varied and believable cast of characters.
The world-building is diverse, multifaceted, and believable. We're given realistic snapshots of all the characters' lives—those of former military men, those of a vicar's family and congregation, the brutal living conditions of orphans, jailed women and children, handicapped vets, and prostitutes barely scraping by. Simply put, this story is a pean to all types of love.
Wonderful plot. It's delightful to watch Alasdhair and Dorcas converse and treat each other with unexpectedly caring familiarity. Their conversations and insightful understanding of each other become more intimate with each interaction. We fall in love with them and a wonderfully varied and believable cast of characters.
The world-building is diverse, multifaceted, and believable. We're given realistic snapshots of all the characters' lives—those of former military men, those of a vicar's family and congregation, the brutal living conditions of orphans, jailed women and children, handicapped vets, and prostitutes barely scraping by. Simply put, this story is a pean to all types of love.
October 31, 2021
I always look forward to finding a new Grace Burrowes book on my reader and this series is...well, delectable and delightful. Dorcas Delaney is the outwardly prim daughter of a vicar who has a heart of gold. When Alasdhair MacKay, retired army officer, becomes the reluctant guardian to her cousin's child, Dorcas becomes involved in his life also.
It's a lovely story with all Ms. Burrowes trademark romance characteristics. It's charming and real, also a little different from the usual historical romances plot. I'm enjoying this series a lot and can't wait for more.
It's a lovely story with all Ms. Burrowes trademark romance characteristics. It's charming and real, also a little different from the usual historical romances plot. I'm enjoying this series a lot and can't wait for more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews