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A Wallflower Guide to Seduce a Rake
What a scoundrel wants, a scoundrel gets...
Being a wallflower is no easy feat. And though desperate to make a match, Lady Estelle Astor cannot get over the fact that her childhood crush is a renowned rake. Nor that she is constantly ignored by him.
Recently returned from his travels, Theodore Hamilton, the Marquess of Campbell, has brought with him a very damaging reputation. Pressured to marry a timid lady, his old friend Estelle seems like the perfect option. Until she refuses his proposal of a marriage of convenience, that is.
When their fathers conspire to force them together anyway, Theodore senses that there is more to this than just a marriage contract. And his father’s secret visits to his wife mean more than he could ever imagine.
Being a wallflower is no easy feat. And though desperate to make a match, Lady Estelle Astor cannot get over the fact that her childhood crush is a renowned rake. Nor that she is constantly ignored by him.
Recently returned from his travels, Theodore Hamilton, the Marquess of Campbell, has brought with him a very damaging reputation. Pressured to marry a timid lady, his old friend Estelle seems like the perfect option. Until she refuses his proposal of a marriage of convenience, that is.
When their fathers conspire to force them together anyway, Theodore senses that there is more to this than just a marriage contract. And his father’s secret visits to his wife mean more than he could ever imagine.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2021
183 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Harriet Caves
70 books64 followersBorn in sunny California, all Harriet Caves ever wanted was to become a doctor and save lives. During her sleepless nights working at the hospital, the Regency classics were her only solace. To no one’s surprise, her British descent led her back to England to discover her roots and where her hidden passion lay: the Regency streets of London.
After obtaining a degree in Creative Writing there, Harriet decided to never leave this magnificent place. A daydreamer and an avid reader herself, she loves spending her days exploring the British countryside or seeking stories under the pebbles of the historical London alleys.
Though she abandoned the hospital wards, Harriet now mends hearts by transporting people back to an era of passionate love. Allow her skilled pen to take you to a special place where souls sing of love and dreams come to life!
After obtaining a degree in Creative Writing there, Harriet decided to never leave this magnificent place. A daydreamer and an avid reader herself, she loves spending her days exploring the British countryside or seeking stories under the pebbles of the historical London alleys.
Though she abandoned the hospital wards, Harriet now mends hearts by transporting people back to an era of passionate love. Allow her skilled pen to take you to a special place where souls sing of love and dreams come to life!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
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May 17, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/16/2021)! 🎁
February 13, 2022
4 stars
Not bad but I would think if an aristocrat was found guilty of treason all their properties would be fortfeit.
I suppose that's why Harriet had Theo as a self made man...though making his money from Sugar in todays world might be a problem...
Not bad but I would think if an aristocrat was found guilty of treason all their properties would be fortfeit.
I suppose that's why Harriet had Theo as a self made man...though making his money from Sugar in todays world might be a problem...
December 1, 2021
A Wallflower Guide to Seduce a Rake was about Lady Estelle Astor, daughter of the Baron of Heatherton, and her childhood crush, Lord Theodore Hamilton, the Marquess of Campbell, son and heir to His Grace Nicholas Hamilton, the Duke of Dandridge.
Estelle, though she had been in love with Theo since childhood, knew he would never consider her. Years later, she had become a wallflower, ill-treated by most of the Ton, and realizing she would be forced to marry in order to salvage the family's waning coffers that her father had constantly gambled away.
Theo, having a hated relationship with his father, had chosen to travel the world rather than allow the Duke to pressure him into an unwanted marriage. Forced by the man to return to England, Theo decided to marry the most unattractive woman he could find, someone he would not care for so that he could still be able to carry on with his rakish ways, for he had no intentions of remaining faithful to a wife. Having literally run into Estelle at a ball, he decided she was the one, although she was no longer the child he remembered, but instead was a very beautiful, and desirable, woman. When he proposed to her on the spot, she turned him down and walked away, much to his astonishment. A few after the ball, both Estelle and Theo were confronted by their mutual parents with a signed marriage contract between them, thus forcing the two to marry.
There were so many twists and turns in this book it was almost difficult to keep up. So many secrets filled the pages and chapters to the point that it was easy to drive the reader mad with frustration. Too many characters were on the shady, if not downright hateful side of existence. The whole storyline and plot made very little sense.
The characters in this book! So well-developed and fleshed out. It was almost like watching the scenes of a movie playing on the screen, and in such a way that you had to watch (read) to the very end just to make certain, all went well.
The emotions were so overwhelming and a constant barrage to the reader's senses, they were almost an overload. The angst, drama, love, hate, fear, anger, passion, betrayal...all of it kept hitting the reader so hard in the head and heart that it became an almost physical pain. The book was decidedly worthy of a five-star rating and to be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
Estelle, though she had been in love with Theo since childhood, knew he would never consider her. Years later, she had become a wallflower, ill-treated by most of the Ton, and realizing she would be forced to marry in order to salvage the family's waning coffers that her father had constantly gambled away.
Theo, having a hated relationship with his father, had chosen to travel the world rather than allow the Duke to pressure him into an unwanted marriage. Forced by the man to return to England, Theo decided to marry the most unattractive woman he could find, someone he would not care for so that he could still be able to carry on with his rakish ways, for he had no intentions of remaining faithful to a wife. Having literally run into Estelle at a ball, he decided she was the one, although she was no longer the child he remembered, but instead was a very beautiful, and desirable, woman. When he proposed to her on the spot, she turned him down and walked away, much to his astonishment. A few after the ball, both Estelle and Theo were confronted by their mutual parents with a signed marriage contract between them, thus forcing the two to marry.
There were so many twists and turns in this book it was almost difficult to keep up. So many secrets filled the pages and chapters to the point that it was easy to drive the reader mad with frustration. Too many characters were on the shady, if not downright hateful side of existence. The whole storyline and plot made very little sense.
The characters in this book! So well-developed and fleshed out. It was almost like watching the scenes of a movie playing on the screen, and in such a way that you had to watch (read) to the very end just to make certain, all went well.
The emotions were so overwhelming and a constant barrage to the reader's senses, they were almost an overload. The angst, drama, love, hate, fear, anger, passion, betrayal...all of it kept hitting the reader so hard in the head and heart that it became an almost physical pain. The book was decidedly worthy of a five-star rating and to be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
June 2, 2021
✳️✳️ONE SPECTACULAR THRILL RIDE✳️✳️
Basking blankets boo! Harriet outdoes herself once more serving up one incredibly tantalizing, skillfully compelling, deliciously delectable, sinfully addictive, earth quaking, rock-my-world landslide with this titillating tempest, skyrocketing this thrilling little number to staggering heights. Harriet spins this gem so masterfully with such finesse and style, weaving a cocoon around you so securely and precise, luring you deeper into this tangled web until nothing else exists, mindful of the daunting trials and tribulations, while cognizant of the perilous twists and wicked turns unfolding, secrets are shared and revelations are disclosed, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Shenanigans and mayhem run rampant, revving up the exuberance and fervor with such riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying currents, escalating suspense and intense situations ensue in epic proportions, futures are forged and promises are pledged, launching this baby to life flawlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such ease and adoration, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, uniting them together beautifully. The characters dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Harriet, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
Basking blankets boo! Harriet outdoes herself once more serving up one incredibly tantalizing, skillfully compelling, deliciously delectable, sinfully addictive, earth quaking, rock-my-world landslide with this titillating tempest, skyrocketing this thrilling little number to staggering heights. Harriet spins this gem so masterfully with such finesse and style, weaving a cocoon around you so securely and precise, luring you deeper into this tangled web until nothing else exists, mindful of the daunting trials and tribulations, while cognizant of the perilous twists and wicked turns unfolding, secrets are shared and revelations are disclosed, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Shenanigans and mayhem run rampant, revving up the exuberance and fervor with such riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying currents, escalating suspense and intense situations ensue in epic proportions, futures are forged and promises are pledged, launching this baby to life flawlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such ease and adoration, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, uniting them together beautifully. The characters dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits that balance out smoothly and fluid, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Harriet, thanks for sharing this awesome little gem with us.
May 25, 2021
5 Stars for a Wallflowers Guide
I gave "A Wallflower Guide to Seduce a Duke" by Harriet Caves a rating of 5 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was not all happiness and rainbows but days of sunshine and others with dark threatening clouds and others with storms and rainfall.
Estelle is a very interesting character. She considers herself a wallflower but she may be quiet and shy but not with people that she considers good friends. She handles nasty socialites without being as nasty as they have been.
Theo, on the other hand, is a man who has been on the town for a while, in fact, he had a reputation! He has been told it is time to marry. He does not really want to do so, but feels that a marriage to a quiet, shy, easily left behind wife is the way to have the best of two lifestyles.
The result is an intersting story of two people who have a childhood in common, are married and suddenly find out that while they thought they knew each other, really have a lot to learn anout love and marriage.
I gave "A Wallflower Guide to Seduce a Duke" by Harriet Caves a rating of 5 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was not all happiness and rainbows but days of sunshine and others with dark threatening clouds and others with storms and rainfall.
Estelle is a very interesting character. She considers herself a wallflower but she may be quiet and shy but not with people that she considers good friends. She handles nasty socialites without being as nasty as they have been.
Theo, on the other hand, is a man who has been on the town for a while, in fact, he had a reputation! He has been told it is time to marry. He does not really want to do so, but feels that a marriage to a quiet, shy, easily left behind wife is the way to have the best of two lifestyles.
The result is an intersting story of two people who have a childhood in common, are married and suddenly find out that while they thought they knew each other, really have a lot to learn anout love and marriage.
May 23, 2021
This book is a wonderful mix of love and overcoming past hurts, intermingled with intrigue and blackmail. Even the strong characters are manipulated by Theo's nasty father, whose motives where his son is concerned are suspect and completely misguided. How an seemingly intelligent man ended up in his position proves how irrational a man can get when desperate. Estelle's weak father, with his gambling habit, is unfortunately not uncommon for the times in the nobility. The growing love and acceptance Theo shows Estelle is a beautiful contrast to the frustrations and hurts surrounding them. There is love and respect in Theo and Estelle's household from both the butler and housekeeper and shows an entirely different aspect to life upstairs and downstairs, that is lovely. All up, a delightful story with no hanging bits. I gave it 4 stars. I received this book as an ARC and review it voluntarily.
May 19, 2021
Harriet Caves book is filled with twists, turns, intrigue and missed opportunities. Gripping and filled with situations that make this a page turner.
Estelle and Theo were close childhood friends until he left for Eaton. Years later the couple met , once again, at a ball. Theo, being pressured by his father to marry and produce and heir, ask Estelle to enter into a marriage of convenience. Though she has feelings for him, Estelle declines Theo’s offer of marriage. Unbeknownst to either of them, their fathers have signed a marriage contract uniting the two families.
Once the marriage takes place, Theo feels he must keep his distance and truly make their’s a marriage of convenience. Meanwhile, a devious person close to the couple Intends to use Estelle to aid in the downfall of someone close to her.
The road to their HEA is filled with twists, turns and heartbreak. A great read.
Estelle and Theo were close childhood friends until he left for Eaton. Years later the couple met , once again, at a ball. Theo, being pressured by his father to marry and produce and heir, ask Estelle to enter into a marriage of convenience. Though she has feelings for him, Estelle declines Theo’s offer of marriage. Unbeknownst to either of them, their fathers have signed a marriage contract uniting the two families.
Once the marriage takes place, Theo feels he must keep his distance and truly make their’s a marriage of convenience. Meanwhile, a devious person close to the couple Intends to use Estelle to aid in the downfall of someone close to her.
The road to their HEA is filled with twists, turns and heartbreak. A great read.
June 24, 2021
A lovely story with lots of twists
I enjoyed the story line and there were surprises, intrigue, and a bit of adventure. The emotions run rampant as Estelle attempts to save her family from debt and losing everything. The salvation came in the form of a childhood friend Theo. I would explain more but it would give away too much of the story. I would have like to see a bit of a better transition between scenes, but other than that the writing was good. I will be reading this author again.
I enjoyed the story line and there were surprises, intrigue, and a bit of adventure. The emotions run rampant as Estelle attempts to save her family from debt and losing everything. The salvation came in the form of a childhood friend Theo. I would explain more but it would give away too much of the story. I would have like to see a bit of a better transition between scenes, but other than that the writing was good. I will be reading this author again.
May 4, 2022
Estelle and Theo were childhood friends. Now they've grown up and remeet at a ball. Theos father is pushing him to marry. Who better than his childhood friend. She denies him, but two days later his father comes up with marriage contracts for him and Estelle. As with any marriage there are ups and downs. Estelle is given orders from her father-in-law or her parents would be ruined. Trying to do the right thing without hurting anyone is hard. Can she save her parents and her friendship without hurting anyone especially herself.
May 15, 2021
There were lots of twists and turns in this Regency romance. I thought it was well written and kept me in suspense. I liked both the main characters and Estelle's friend Amanda. Estelle is pressured by her situation and Theo has a broken heart and real ghosts in his head from his military service. I liked how Theo warmed up to Estelle and that the storyline wasn't your traditional regency romance with lots of intrigue.
May 17, 2021
A fantastic and surprising story!
Can two friends now grown with secrets of their own survive a marriage of convenience that is the question Estelle and Theo will need to answer. This twisty, turning love story was a super read. It was full of intrigue and mystery and had a great cast of characters. I must say the book kept in its hooks in me till the very end. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Can two friends now grown with secrets of their own survive a marriage of convenience that is the question Estelle and Theo will need to answer. This twisty, turning love story was a super read. It was full of intrigue and mystery and had a great cast of characters. I must say the book kept in its hooks in me till the very end. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 19, 2021
wonderfully gripping plot with a unique twist
This is a brilliant story that has a plot that is beautifully crafted, with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are portrayed wonderfully and have some brilliantly thought-out obstacles to overcome. This is a book that will suit anybody that loves historical romances that have a bit of spice. The extended epilogue has a great insight into how the characters later lives turned out. I read an ARC copy.
This is a brilliant story that has a plot that is beautifully crafted, with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are portrayed wonderfully and have some brilliantly thought-out obstacles to overcome. This is a book that will suit anybody that loves historical romances that have a bit of spice. The extended epilogue has a great insight into how the characters later lives turned out. I read an ARC copy.
June 25, 2021
Theo and Estelle
Amazing writing with exceptional characters. Theo and Estelle have known each other all their lives. Who knew that one day that they would marry and have an adventure of a lifetime. The book keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. This is a first with this author and she doesn't disappoint. Would highly recommend. Epilogue was good but really loved the extended epilogue.
Amazing writing with exceptional characters. Theo and Estelle have known each other all their lives. Who knew that one day that they would marry and have an adventure of a lifetime. The book keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. This is a first with this author and she doesn't disappoint. Would highly recommend. Epilogue was good but really loved the extended epilogue.
May 15, 2021
Conclusion a bit illogical. No reason for reader to suspect treason.
Illogical that sins of father would not destroy son, given the mores of the time period
Sex scenes were generally not too graphic. Thank goodness.
Did admire heroine.
Wish epiloque would just be included rather than being used as teaser.
Illogical that sins of father would not destroy son, given the mores of the time period
Sex scenes were generally not too graphic. Thank goodness.
Did admire heroine.
Wish epiloque would just be included rather than being used as teaser.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2021
A marriage of convenience; whose convenience, though? Estelle and Theo shared childhood adventures and mischief. They used to turn to each other for comfort. Now they've been forced together as strangers; guarding their secrets. Good intriguing, romantic tale; the many characters made for interesting reading. 3 1/2 stars.
Voluntarily read ARC for honest review.
Voluntarily read ARC for honest review.
May 16, 2021
Estelle had a childhood crush on Theo but now that he has returned from his travels, he has changed wants nothing to do with him. But things will change for them both as their father’s have arranged a force marriage This story is a page turner with lots of twist and turns as it has mystery, suspense, intrigue, A must read to find out what happens next.
May 17, 2021
Another excellent and enjoyable regency romance from Harriet. I really liked the main characters Estelle and Theo and following them on the rollercoaster ride towards the hopefully happy ending kept me reading. There was mystery and suspense as well as romance to keep you engrossed. I received an ARC and am leaving a totally unbiased and honest review.
May 19, 2021
Theodore and Estelle were childhood friends. Estelle had loved him since then but he paid her no attention. Her father was loosing everything through gambling. His father wanted him to get married. They arranged a marriage without consent. A very entertaining story that has murder, bribery, and betrayal. I received an ARC of this book and I recommend reading this book.
May 22, 2021
Average
I began this book with high hopes but the dwindled fast. I gave up 43% into the book because I totally lost interest in whether anyone’s character was believable. A total waste of my time and energy.
I began this book with high hopes but the dwindled fast. I gave up 43% into the book because I totally lost interest in whether anyone’s character was believable. A total waste of my time and energy.
April 5, 2022
easy read
The characters were interesting and there were plots within the main plot. I never suspected the ending, even though, I kept trying to figure out why the Duke chose Estelle. The story moves along and is interesting. I heartily recommend the book.
The characters were interesting and there were plots within the main plot. I never suspected the ending, even though, I kept trying to figure out why the Duke chose Estelle. The story moves along and is interesting. I heartily recommend the book.
June 9, 2022
A wallflower guide to seduce a rake
A wallflower Guide to Seduce a Rake is Estelle and Theodore’s story of love from being children. But the PLAN is not predictable and not revealed until the last chapter. Great read Enjoyable start to End
A wallflower Guide to Seduce a Rake is Estelle and Theodore’s story of love from being children. But the PLAN is not predictable and not revealed until the last chapter. Great read Enjoyable start to End
May 16, 2021
As I have not read many books by this author and I was very impressed with it well written story with twists and turns for you
May 18, 2021
Enjoyed this Regency romance. Well written.
May 22, 2021
Great story
Harriet managed to mix romance with mystery and intrigue in such an interesting story. Did not want to put it Dow at all. Loved it!
Harriet managed to mix romance with mystery and intrigue in such an interesting story. Did not want to put it Dow at all. Loved it!
May 26, 2021
Love is powerful
Story was beautifully written and very enjoyable. Characters were believable and lovable. Father was evil and then a sad man. Glad it ended well.
Story was beautifully written and very enjoyable. Characters were believable and lovable. Father was evil and then a sad man. Glad it ended well.
August 1, 2021
Such a wonder!
Harriet Caves writes the most detailed description in her books. They never disappoint. This is a must read. Seduction is a good thing?
Harriet Caves writes the most detailed description in her books. They never disappoint. This is a must read. Seduction is a good thing?
October 28, 2021
Very good!
I enjoyed this because as usual, marriages of convenience are my favorite. Some parts towards the middle and end had me somewhat confused, but I managed to make it thru!
I enjoyed this because as usual, marriages of convenience are my favorite. Some parts towards the middle and end had me somewhat confused, but I managed to make it thru!
November 16, 2021
A marriage of convenience, but to an old friend. Happiness in the marriage is threatened by a complicated suspense subplot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2022
Love comes slowly
I enjoyed getting to know Theo and Estelle.
The book contained friendship that grew to be love. Several underlying plots.
This book is really worth a read!
I enjoyed getting to know Theo and Estelle.
The book contained friendship that grew to be love. Several underlying plots.
This book is really worth a read!
June 1, 2021
LOVED it great read Harriet Caves never disappointed with Bert books.
Great CHARACTERS.
Great CHARACTERS.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews