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That Wicked O'Shea Family #6

Give Your Heart a Rake

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Lady Siobhan O’Shea will never forgive her brother for losing her in a silly bet. Thanks to Caelian’s loss, she is now obligated to marry Rory Feeney, a man she despises. Rather than simply refuse to honor her brother’s wager, Siobhan has plans of her own, plans to teach both the odious, rakish Rory and her brother a lesson.

As a self-made millionaire, Rory has enjoyed living a life that no one from his humble beginnings could ever have imagined for him. The perfect sign of his advancement in the world would be marrying into the aristocracy, so when he wins a bet to marry an earl’s daughter, he is determined to go through with it, no matter what protests Siobhan raises.

But things take a turn for the unexpected when Rory discovers that he actually likes Siobhan’s outlandishly stubborn ways. And Siobhan secretly comes to see Rory as more than the rogue she thought he was. But can love over come pride as both of them vie for the upper hand in their marriage of convenience?

An enemies-to-lovers romance that involves a forced marriage, an exciting awakening, and that will also leave you in stitches.

PLEASE BE ADVISED: Steam level – very spicy!

154 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 15, 2021

198 people are currently reading
205 people want to read

About the author

Merry Farmer

291 books1,137 followers
USA Today Bestselling author Merry Farmer lives in suburban Philadelphia with her two cats, Justine and Peter. She has been writing since she was ten years old and realized she didn't have to wait for the teacher to assign a creative writing project to write something. It was the best day of her life. Her books have reached the top of Amazon's charts, and have been named finalists for several prestigious awards, including the RONE Award for indie romance.

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170 (31%)
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75 (13%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Janet.
5,172 reviews65 followers
October 13, 2021
4.25 Stars
Lady Siobhan O’Shea will never forgive her brother for losing her in a silly bet. Thanks to Caelian’s loss, she is now obligated to marry Rory Feeney, a man she despises. Rather than simply refuse to honour her brother’s wager, Siobhan has plans of her own, plans to teach rakish Rory a lesson. As a self-made millionaire, Rory has enjoyed living a life that no one from his humble beginnings could ever have imagined for him. The perfect sign of his advancement in the world would be marrying into the aristocracy, so when he wins a bet to marry an earl’s daughter, he is determined to go through with it, no matter what protests Siobhan raises. But things take a turn for the unexpected when Rory discovers that he actually likes Siobhan’s outlandishly stubborn ways. And Siobhan secretly comes to see Rory as more than the rogue she thought he was.
The sixth book in this fun, humorous & entertaining series, it’s easily read on its own but the whole O’Shea family are an utter delight & the books leave you with a smile on your face. I loved Rory who'd fallen for Siobhan a while ago, I found it harder to love Siobhan as she certainly put her judgemental, meddling foot in it right up to her armpits & a lesser man would have walked away. Rory had his work cut out protecting others whilst trying to woo Siobhan. However she did redeem herself during the course of the book. This wasn't my favourite of the series but it was still a well written fun read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,241 reviews99 followers
October 11, 2021
Lady Siobhan O’Shea is furious with her brother for losing her hand in marriage in an infantile bet. Likely no one would actually hold her to the terms, but Siobhan decides to go along with things and agree to marriage with devilishly charming Rory Feeney.

Rory came from rather humble origins and made his own fortune in business. An aristocratic wife would help elevate his social clout, so he’s determined to see the marriage through despite Siobhan’s decidedly hollow protestations.

Things get interesting when Rory begins to genuinely like the stubborn Siobhan and she secretly begins to admire him as well once she realizes he’s more than she first assumed. But they both have their pride and when Siobhan makes a grave error, the future of their marriage is threatened before it even has a chance to begin.

This one might be my favorite of this series. At the least, I enjoyed it more than the last couple of installments. It did have to grow on me because Siobhan was absolutely insufferable at first. She initially came off as a shallow, judgmental snob, which she essentially was, incredibly staid and literal, as well as being petty and self-centered with a tendency to jump to conclusions. Thankfully, Siobhan also became aware of these traits in her personality and behavior and made moves to change them and right the wrongs she had inadvertently caused. We’re told Rory is arrogant, but he never really acted insufferable, Siobhan just claimed him to be so as part of her defense mechanism against her unwanted feelings for him. Thankfully, the snappish behavior between these two didn’t last that long and they soon presented a united front against Rory’s brother, who was a truly loathsome villain. I was glad to see Siobhan finally realize what really mattered and who her true friends were, even if that realization did come a mite late. Overall, this was a fun and fast-paced story that I was happy to breeze right through on an enjoyable Fall afternoon.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
4,720 reviews40 followers
October 15, 2021
A lost wager?
I love the O'Shea family and I have so enjoyed reading this series. In this addition we have Lady Siobhan O’Shea who is rather unhappy with her brother. I have to admit with a brother like hers who needs enemies. Siobhan was the stake in a wager and now she is to marry a scoundrel by name of Rory Feeney. The quick and charming book was such fun to read I adored Siobhan and Rory had his moments too. The pace was great the dialogue was awesome, and heat well let’s say a cold shower might in the cards. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Profile Image for Amanda Richardson.
997 reviews10 followers
October 17, 2021
I love enemies to lovers romances and Merry Farmer's Give Your Heart a Rake was perfect for the trope! We met Siobhan when her brother, Caelian, lost his bet to Rory over their mutual flying machine competition. The wager was Siobhan's hand in marriage. Rory is more than ready to collect and Siobhan is ready to run the other way.

Siobhan has worked hard to be a respectable O'Shea and not one of the "wild" ones. She wants to be invited to tea with other ladies and does not want to marry a commoner, especially Rory Feeney. A man who annoys her and challenges her at every turn. She may want to kiss him and thinks he should be proud of being a self-made man, but that is no foundation for a marriage.

Rory wants nothing more than to marry the lovely Siobhan. He has worked hard to get where he is at and having a lady grace his arm, and bed, is one more goal to tick off his list. Her brother lost their bet and now Siobhan is his. It won't be easy convincing her to really marry him though. He'll have to put his best seductions into action to win her.

This book is a fun read and can be enjoyed as a stand alone novel. If you don't ready Caelian's story you'll miss the wager, obviously he loses to Rory, and some of their background but you won't be lost. There are some steamy scenes that keep the story interesting!
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,079 reviews130 followers
October 18, 2021
Ballymena, Ireland 1889
The O'Shea family is at it again and this time Siobhan is being forced to marry Mr. Rory Feeney. No, not a lord or anyone with a title. Her brother had managed to land her a betrothed due to losing a bet!

She actually found that his working to gain his fortune, did not take away from his handsome face and gorgeous eyes. It really made her admire him.

Rory, on the other hand, found it to his advantage to marry into the aristocracy. It would definately help his standing. He actually liked her!

A fun adventure as these two find an attraction that just might make that bet one of the best things that have ever happened to either of them!
Profile Image for Lisa C.
1,099 reviews22 followers
October 9, 2021
Wonderful story of Lady Siobhan O’Shea, one of the few Wicked O'Shea family who cares about her reputation, and Rory Feeney, a self made man and a bit of a rake. Forced together by a bet, things are not going so smooth, and then things get even worse. Loved the banter and relationship between these two, and especially the lessons learned. Can be read as a standalone, but highly recommend the series.
2,311 reviews11 followers
May 24, 2023
Another Exciting Story!
Merry Farmer never fails to keep one riveted to the pages of her books and this one was especially exciting, engrossing and fascinating.
I loved how strong Siobhan was written – she stuck to her principles and once she realised she had feelings for Rory, she never gave up on him until they found their happy ever after.
I received this book as a gift and leave my voluntary review in appreciation of the enjoyment this find work has given me.
Profile Image for Brenda.
3,476 reviews46 followers
May 29, 2022
Good book

Siobhan and Rory are meant to be together. Regardless of the fact that they're not what you think of as a perfect pair.
Lady Siobhan O’Shea will never forgive her brother for losing her in a silly bet. Thanks to Caelian’s loss, she is now obligated to marry Rory Feeney, a man she despises. Rather than simply refuse to honor her brother’s wager, Siobhan has plans of her own, plans to teach both the odious, rakish Rory and her brother a lesson.
As a self-made millionaire, Rory has enjoyed living a life that no one from his humble beginnings could ever have imagined for him. The perfect sign of his advancement in the world would be marrying into the aristocracy, so when he wins a bet to marry an earl’s daughter, he is determined to go through with it, no matter what protests Siobhan raises.
But things take a turn for the unexpected when Rory discovers that he actually likes Siobhan’s outlandishly stubborn ways. And Siobhan secretly comes to see Rory as more than the rogue she thought he was. But can love over come pride as both of them vie for the upper hand in their marriage of convenience?
Merry Farmer has written another perfect book.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,444 reviews30 followers
October 22, 2021
Such a big mouth

Siobhan is a O'Shea but just barely! She cares more to please the snub nosed biddies of high society than anything of anyone! Rory is a self ad man who made a wager and won and quite content his prize is beautiful Siobhan who could not take a hint!
When Siobhan plan to discredit Rory to get out of marriage goes to hell in a hand basket it certainly does not look fixable! Rory should have given her a clue since they were to married and he has a reputation as a ladies man!
Siobhan ignored the company she was in and the signs and blurted out things that were none of her business! If that wasn't enough it could physically not just socially injure mother and son. Rory gave her several hints to shut up!
Rory forgave the spoiled brat too quickly to me. I'm glad he made her wonder if the wedding was on or not!? What a wedding never heard of such before! Can this two lay aside differences to mend reputations and help people who don't deserve this debacle?
Can these two have a solid marriage!? I'm hopeful Siobhan will grow up in time! She is my least favorite O'shea! But Rory what a man!
732 reviews3 followers
October 11, 2021
Lady Siobhan O’Shea, was the wager, not what she wanted to. She always dreamed of redeeming the family name. Now she is getting married to a take and businessman. Her a noble lady, oh the heartache of it!

Mr. Rory Feeney, is a self made man bring himself from a poor farmer's not to a powerful, rich, successful business owner that helps others. He wants Lady Siobhan for her spirit, fire, and pluck!

Will the wedding take place? As Siobhan tries her best to get out of it, Rory just takes a step back. Without realizing she did it Siobhan opens a can of worms so to speak. Now Rory has to protect others from getting hurt at the same time he is trying to convince Siobhan they are a perfect match and this is what she really needs and wants.

Siobhan makes new friends and sees her family in a different light. Which makes for a great basis for this wild adventure with some old characters and new ones. Join in the ride from one town to the other meeting family, friends, and enemies.

You also get a peak at possible new books to follow! Now how can you resist that!
Profile Image for Colin Bell.
1,062 reviews13 followers
October 15, 2021
In this the penultimate book in the series the main characters are Lady Siobhan O'Shea and Rory Gedney, a self - made businessman who had won her hand in a bet with her brother, Lord Dervock. Although she wants to be fully recognised in society, which marriage to a "commoner" would definitely make more difficult, she has a begrudging admiration and attraction to him. He is also attracted by her strong personality, independent thought as well as her physical appearance.
This is another fun, spicy book that also shows the restrictions of society at the time. With Rory's criminal brother Michael threatening to throw their wedding into turmoil this could have a devastating effect on Siobhan's place in society and she will have to make up her mind on what is more important to her, Society or love.
I'm now waiting for the last book in this series to find out the final tale in this enjoyable series.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influence my review of the book.
4,143 reviews22 followers
November 5, 2021
Those scandalous, fun O'Sheas are at it again in the sixth installment of this devilishly delightful series. This is Siobhan's and Rory's story. Her brother lost her in a silly wager and now she has to pay the price by marrying a man she detests and finds completely insufferable. Well, she is an O'Shea, after all, and she won't just simply accept her fate. She has some wicked payback in mind for her future husband. A humorous, entertaining, and just simply full of fun enemies to lovers tale that will have you laughing and swooning. The characters are quirky and unique and you just can't help but fall in love with them. The writing is fun and witty, and will pull you in right from the start and will leave you with a smile on your face. Although the book is part of a series, you don't have to read the past books to enjoy this one, but I highly recommend you read them all. I just can't get enough of this family! Absolutely love the book and the series! Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary advanced reader's copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
79 reviews
October 12, 2021
If you have not read the Scandelous O'Shea Family novels yet, I suggest you start with the first in the series, actually why not read all Merry's Regency Novels, you won't be sorry!!!

Now, back to the second to final O'Shea novel!!! I always feel like this is my favourite, only to think the same of the following.

You have a perfect trifecta, A beautiful aristocratic women, Aman that is the envy of all, and a romance that seems like it will never work, but after so many bumps, you want to scream, love triumphs all!!!

You are also reminded that if you think in modern times, that you are discriminated against, it was sooo much worse then.

Take a trip to the land of green fields, Leprechauns, beer and 4 leave clover 🍀!!!
Profile Image for Gina.
2,383 reviews31 followers
October 10, 2021
I loved Rory and Siobhan, they really complimented each other. Though Siobhan was trying hard to find something against Rory she really wanted to marry him. She just did not want it because of a stupid bet. When she wrongly accuses him of something in front of his brother she may have ruined everything. Rory's brother is bent on revenge and Siobhan gave him some ammunition she did not mean to. Rory and Siobhan must work together to put a stop to his brother. There were many surprises in this story that made it very interesting.
1,948 reviews18 followers
October 10, 2021
The O’Shea’s do not disappoint in adding excitement to a story as is the case in this story. A wager was made and lost and now Siobhan is set to marry Rory. But as with all O’Shea’s, things never go smoothly and there is no lack of excitement, intrigue and danger lurking. As with all previous stories, this one is well written and highly entertaining. I would highly recommend this story along with the other books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
2,419 reviews22 followers
October 10, 2021
I know that Merry is a fantastic writer and this book is another example of her engaging stories. I knew I would love it going into it because it was enemies-to-lovers that began in the last book. This is just one example of Merry’s books where the underlying theme is much more intense and stronger than the light outside story. Rory has such depth and was so loving in all ways. A powerful story which is my favorite of this series. Just loved it!

I received a complimentary copy from the author.
Profile Image for Ruchika Mahajan.
591 reviews8 followers
October 15, 2021
Another steamy O'shea story is here to enthrall us.
This time it's Siobhan O'shea (the irish names are refreshingly interesting than all the Mary's,Caroline's etc )
Her brother lost her hand in marriage to a stranger
As expected she is furious but decides to ahead with the arrangement nevertheless.
The interactions between Rory and Siobhan are very entertaining. I kind of didn't like Siobhan initially but her character grows in a positive light.
Rory was complex due to his humble beginnings .His character arc was impressive.
Another feather in the cap of the author.
650 reviews3 followers
July 24, 2022
A good read

Rory and Siobhan got engaged by way of a wager made by her brother in a flying competition on who could fly farther than the other. She was not happy about it but he had started to grow on her. Their wedding almost didn't happen because of a misunderstanding and it put another person at risk when that info came out. Lots of action and misunderstandings in this book, but in the end it all worked out. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤
Profile Image for SynergyQuest.
2,020 reviews7 followers
October 22, 2021
3.5 stars - Naïve and Sorta Bratty Heroine

The heroine for much of the book is so concerned about what her “friends” will think of her that she does some pretty unpleasant things. She finally comes around to cherishing friendships with women her “friends” would ignore. For me, it’s too little too late. Otherwise, the hero is wonderfully written and the steamy parts are yummy.
1,296 reviews1 follower
October 24, 2021
Captivating

Lady Siobhan O’Shea has been living her by others standards. Can a wager, a self-made man and a tragic choice work together to help her realize what she needs for herself, not what’s expected of her. Rory will do anything to have her. But, are either Siobhan and Rory exactly what they each expected.
Profile Image for Anita Rohn.
1,959 reviews10 followers
October 19, 2021
Society

She fears for her place in society and yet she wants to be her own person. Their adventure proves that society is full of snobs and life worth living ignores the pettiness. Especially when in love. A fun read.
Profile Image for Mary.
761 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2021
A woman who has to marry because her brother lost a bet
The deal her betrothed gave her so she could get out of it
Angry words spoken and people put in danger
Her wedding ruined because his brother wanted revenge
A kidnapping and trying to save a life
And so much more
Profile Image for Marjorie.
2,099 reviews4 followers
November 28, 2021
Great historical romance

I enjoyed this book too. I have been part of AncestryDNA for while and I found my family with heritage from England and Whales and Scotland, but my late husband’s goes past Henry VIII and that was a lot of history.
344 reviews3 followers
April 26, 2023
I enjoyed this story. Historical fiction isn't my favorite genre, but I did enjoy how the author showed that you didn't have to let class rule your life, but only if you had money! I liked the characters and felt this match was a good one, which is unusual for many romances! Keep up the good work!
Profile Image for Queen Talk Talk.
1,268 reviews3 followers
July 20, 2024
A quick read for me

Pride can make people miserable. I liked the way Societal positions and class differences are addressed. This enemies to lovers has some Gothic twists and a couple of sexy times.
Profile Image for Candy.
888 reviews3 followers
October 16, 2021
Fun, witty, and wholly entertaining. I love the O’Shea family!
Profile Image for Phylis Collins.
2,845 reviews8 followers
October 18, 2021
A strong heroine and a strong hero and evenly matched in stubbornness. This was a fun read, with romance and a little suspense. 
Profile Image for AmazingJ.
990 reviews7 followers
November 1, 2021
An Adorable Story

I enjoyed reading this book. Merry Farmer has a way of telling a good story. I have enjoyed reading "That Wicked O'Shea Family Series" I am ready for the last book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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