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Racing Rogues #2
The Speed of Seduction
He has spent years arranging the pieces on the chessboard to entrap his enemy. Now, a wager made in jest threatens to waylay his plans... and his heart.
Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning.
The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement, she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy.
But there is more to Will than meets the eye—a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge, or will they both be consumed by the tempest?
The Speed of Seduction is a steamy reformed rake, revenge Regency romance. It is the second book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning.
The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement, she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy.
But there is more to Will than meets the eye—a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge, or will they both be consumed by the tempest?
The Speed of Seduction is a steamy reformed rake, revenge Regency romance. It is the second book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2021
149 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Cara Maxwell
26 books124 followersBringing fresh perspective and punch to the genre readers already know and love, Cara Maxwell is dedicated to writing spirited heroines and irresistible rogues who you will root for every time. A lifetime reader of romance, Cara put pen to paper (or rather, fingers to keyboard) in 2019 and published her first book. She hasn’t slowed down from there.
Cara is an avid traveler. As she explores new places, she imagines her characters walking hand-in-hand down a cobblestone path or sharing a passionate kiss in a secluded alcove. Cara is living out her own happily ever after in Seattle, Washington, where she resides with her husband, daughter, and two cats, RoseArt and Etch-o-Sketch.
Cara is an avid traveler. As she explores new places, she imagines her characters walking hand-in-hand down a cobblestone path or sharing a passionate kiss in a secluded alcove. Cara is living out her own happily ever after in Seattle, Washington, where she resides with her husband, daughter, and two cats, RoseArt and Etch-o-Sketch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 13, 2025
I thought the first few chapters were hilarious. Our heroine had a lot sarcasm and wit but unfortunately, the story dragged and it got frustrating with some parts. It grew tiresome towards the end. I won't be continuing the series...
January 5, 2022
I found this novel to be an absolute delight! Cara Maxwell shines in this series. With a through line around a devious racing group, this second installment in the Racing Rogues is able to carry along a mystery thread while exploring a lovely new romance. Maxwell's writing is well crafted and accessible, creating a story that is interesting while developing an romance between two character who are not looking for love. This novel is well paced and I really enjoy the open end-ness of the mystery which helps to draw the reader into this series and curious about what will come next while still having an absolutely endearing HEA.
William is a duke-to-be with a devil may care attitude, and he can never say no to a wager, especially one that has to do with racing. Little do his acquaintances know, he is secretly investigating the racing community and is out for revenge and information surrounding the disappearance (and supposed death) of a friend. When William is wagered that he must get Lady Simone Laurent to marry him or he will forfeit his stable of racehorses, William can't pass up this opportunity to add to his stables and upon first meeting Simone, he is also very intrigued by her. Simone is the youngest of a very boisterous family, and because of this she often feels overlooked, but when William continues to pursue her, she can't help be curious about what his intentions are.
The relationship between Simone and William is absolutely delightful! Upon their first meeting Simone sees him as a rake with a pompous attitude and thinks she will just write him off, but William is draw to her like a moth to a flame. He calls upon her the next day, and softly courts her without her truly realizing what is happening. The way they begin to feel free together, they way the open up to each other, and the sizzling chemistry that bubbles under the surface all coalesce into a sweet love story between two people who fall softly in love. I really love how William feels so comfortable around Simone that he finds himself trusting her and confining in her with ease and he choses not to hold things back from her. I love how trusting Simone feels with William that she opens herself up to him both physically and emotionally. I love that Simone sees how William values her and will stand up for her. I love that even when they have a misunderstanding, they take the time to cool off while never falling out of love. Their relationship grows from curiosity to sensuality in such a lovely and organic way and I found this novel to have a great steam level for the relationship that Simone and William.
I very highly recommend this absolutely lovely romance, it is a perfectly developed relationship between two people who trust each other and learn to work together. I can not wait for the next installment in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
William is a duke-to-be with a devil may care attitude, and he can never say no to a wager, especially one that has to do with racing. Little do his acquaintances know, he is secretly investigating the racing community and is out for revenge and information surrounding the disappearance (and supposed death) of a friend. When William is wagered that he must get Lady Simone Laurent to marry him or he will forfeit his stable of racehorses, William can't pass up this opportunity to add to his stables and upon first meeting Simone, he is also very intrigued by her. Simone is the youngest of a very boisterous family, and because of this she often feels overlooked, but when William continues to pursue her, she can't help be curious about what his intentions are.
The relationship between Simone and William is absolutely delightful! Upon their first meeting Simone sees him as a rake with a pompous attitude and thinks she will just write him off, but William is draw to her like a moth to a flame. He calls upon her the next day, and softly courts her without her truly realizing what is happening. The way they begin to feel free together, they way the open up to each other, and the sizzling chemistry that bubbles under the surface all coalesce into a sweet love story between two people who fall softly in love. I really love how William feels so comfortable around Simone that he finds himself trusting her and confining in her with ease and he choses not to hold things back from her. I love how trusting Simone feels with William that she opens herself up to him both physically and emotionally. I love that Simone sees how William values her and will stand up for her. I love that even when they have a misunderstanding, they take the time to cool off while never falling out of love. Their relationship grows from curiosity to sensuality in such a lovely and organic way and I found this novel to have a great steam level for the relationship that Simone and William.
I very highly recommend this absolutely lovely romance, it is a perfectly developed relationship between two people who trust each other and learn to work together. I can not wait for the next installment in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2021
A Sweet & Steamy Racetrack Romance
I was not expecting to wind up describing a story that featured a young hero with a hardened reputation for brothel-frequenting as "sweet and innocent" but that is exactly what William Armstrong, fake rake and future duke, and Miss Simone Laurent, youngest daughter of a ridiculously large brood, wind up being together! Sweet, innocent, and delightfully steamy!
Simone is the "baby" of her family--a family so large it's basically "Cheaper by the Dozen" meets the "Sound of Music," but with much less singing and far more cranky and overprotective older brothers. Exhausted by her annoying siblings, who include a set of screaming twins who enjoy throwing things at one another, Simone is ripe for the picking and longing to escape home when William points her out as the girl he will marry. Little does Simone know that she is in fact the target of a bet between William and his friends. Compelled to find a bride by his dictatorial father, William claims he could win any girl at the ball--and Simone is the one he selects, almost by random.
But as William begins to woo Simone, it turns out the handsome young rogue is not so hardhearted or callous after all. Instead, his feelings for her are the ones which grow the swiftest and soon he can hardly remember how the entire affair began--all that matters is winning Simone's hand as his wife. Will is impressively patient with Simone's boisterous and at times obnoxious family, seeming more amused by them than anything, and is a refreshingly sweet and charming suitor. Their love begins as a friendship which gradually develops into more, and in the process Simone learns Will lives a more complicated and dangerous existence than she at first realized--and it has nothing to do with his reputation as a supposed rake. No, Will is caught up in a game of revenge--an overarching plot to do with Cara Maxwell's Regency racing world that stretches over from Book 1 and which is growing in intrigue with every volume.
Steam Level: Steamy Stable Shenanigans! (Yes, it's steamy.)
I was not expecting to wind up describing a story that featured a young hero with a hardened reputation for brothel-frequenting as "sweet and innocent" but that is exactly what William Armstrong, fake rake and future duke, and Miss Simone Laurent, youngest daughter of a ridiculously large brood, wind up being together! Sweet, innocent, and delightfully steamy!
Simone is the "baby" of her family--a family so large it's basically "Cheaper by the Dozen" meets the "Sound of Music," but with much less singing and far more cranky and overprotective older brothers. Exhausted by her annoying siblings, who include a set of screaming twins who enjoy throwing things at one another, Simone is ripe for the picking and longing to escape home when William points her out as the girl he will marry. Little does Simone know that she is in fact the target of a bet between William and his friends. Compelled to find a bride by his dictatorial father, William claims he could win any girl at the ball--and Simone is the one he selects, almost by random.
But as William begins to woo Simone, it turns out the handsome young rogue is not so hardhearted or callous after all. Instead, his feelings for her are the ones which grow the swiftest and soon he can hardly remember how the entire affair began--all that matters is winning Simone's hand as his wife. Will is impressively patient with Simone's boisterous and at times obnoxious family, seeming more amused by them than anything, and is a refreshingly sweet and charming suitor. Their love begins as a friendship which gradually develops into more, and in the process Simone learns Will lives a more complicated and dangerous existence than she at first realized--and it has nothing to do with his reputation as a supposed rake. No, Will is caught up in a game of revenge--an overarching plot to do with Cara Maxwell's Regency racing world that stretches over from Book 1 and which is growing in intrigue with every volume.
Steam Level: Steamy Stable Shenanigans! (Yes, it's steamy.)
February 5, 2022
Bet You Will Love This One!
The pace of the story, the chemistry and the characters completely drew me in. William is mischievous and so charming and never turns down a wager. Even one as life-changing as marrying someone. As the last born and often forgotten child in a very large “boisterous” family, Simone’s done with accepting whatever is leftover for her.
When they’re together, their energy is infectious. Simone tempers the darker, revengeful side of William. Learning all their layers adds to the sheer enjoyment of this story. No matter how they started this race to seduce, their hearts end up full of genuine love & admiration for each other.
I really enjoyed this one. Such a heartwarming read laced with intrigue that will continue into the next book. Can’t wait!
The pace of the story, the chemistry and the characters completely drew me in. William is mischievous and so charming and never turns down a wager. Even one as life-changing as marrying someone. As the last born and often forgotten child in a very large “boisterous” family, Simone’s done with accepting whatever is leftover for her.
When they’re together, their energy is infectious. Simone tempers the darker, revengeful side of William. Learning all their layers adds to the sheer enjoyment of this story. No matter how they started this race to seduce, their hearts end up full of genuine love & admiration for each other.
I really enjoyed this one. Such a heartwarming read laced with intrigue that will continue into the next book. Can’t wait!
June 27, 2025
He loved her. He'd meant every word that he'd said to her over the past month. It did not matter that it started as a farce. From the moment she took his arm and walked with him into Hyde Park, he was hers.
4.5 stars
Let me just say that I LIVE for the bet-gone-wrong trope, and Cara delivered this one magnificently! Will was obsessed with keeping up his image as an uncaring rakehell in order to continue investigating his friend's disappearance five years ago. So when his peers pressure him into a wager to win Simone's hand in marriage, of course he had to accept. However, he did not account for Simone's initial disinterest in him or for her spirit to completely lure him in. I loved how they both fell in love slowly; they could not have been more different, but they both found love and acceptance in each other. The romance and intimacy between them developed naturally and beautifully, and I loved how they reconciled after Will's faux pas was realized. The mystery aspect was definitely intriguing, and I look forward to more in this series🖤
Tropes: opposites attract, fake-relationship-turns-real, charming rakehell hero, overlooked wallflower heroine, he falls first, secret past, murder mystery, he makes a wager to seduce her but falls in love, slow burn, STEAMY🔥
January 5, 2022
William and Simone's Story . . .
William Armstrong pretends to be a rake. He will also be a duke when the time comes, which means that a marriage will be important in the near future so that he can produce the required heir and get his father to stop pressuring him.
Miss Simone Laurent is the youngest daughter of a very large family with a multitude of siblings that drive her crazy. Dealing with their carrying-on is exhausting. So when Williams says she is the girl he will marry, she is very much in favor of that plan. But as William begins his courtship, he finds that he does have feelings for her and is truly ready to win her as his wife. Their feelings deepen into friendship and then slowly become even more than that. But how will she react when he learns of the reason for the courtship, that it is simply a bet made with friends that he can seduce her! Can he convince her that he truly does love her? And if he can, would she work along with him to investigate the horse racing scheme he is looking into?
William Armstrong pretends to be a rake. He will also be a duke when the time comes, which means that a marriage will be important in the near future so that he can produce the required heir and get his father to stop pressuring him.
Miss Simone Laurent is the youngest daughter of a very large family with a multitude of siblings that drive her crazy. Dealing with their carrying-on is exhausting. So when Williams says she is the girl he will marry, she is very much in favor of that plan. But as William begins his courtship, he finds that he does have feelings for her and is truly ready to win her as his wife. Their feelings deepen into friendship and then slowly become even more than that. But how will she react when he learns of the reason for the courtship, that it is simply a bet made with friends that he can seduce her! Can he convince her that he truly does love her? And if he can, would she work along with him to investigate the horse racing scheme he is looking into?
January 9, 2022
What started out as a wager for horses, soon becomes a quest to win the woman he loves.
Will Armstrong, Viscount Warrington and heir to the Duke of Sudbury, lives for horses, races, wagers and women. Or is it all a front for something more dangerous? On a wager, Will pursues the youngest daughter of the very large Laurent family. Simone does not believe Will could be interested in her with his reputation, but everything seems real, especially his kisses and his embrace. Soon their relationship has gone too far to back out, but Simone is determined that Will tell her the truth, including his deepest, darkest secret. A very strong hero needs a very strong lady. Simone surprises everyone on how strong she really is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Will Armstrong, Viscount Warrington and heir to the Duke of Sudbury, lives for horses, races, wagers and women. Or is it all a front for something more dangerous? On a wager, Will pursues the youngest daughter of the very large Laurent family. Simone does not believe Will could be interested in her with his reputation, but everything seems real, especially his kisses and his embrace. Soon their relationship has gone too far to back out, but Simone is determined that Will tell her the truth, including his deepest, darkest secret. A very strong hero needs a very strong lady. Simone surprises everyone on how strong she really is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2021
🐎 The Speed of Seduction 🐎
A Reformed Rake Regency Romance
Racing Rogues Book 2
✒️ Cara Maxwell
https://www.facebook.com/caramaxwellr...
Release Date 12/26/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09G586B1G/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
He has spent years arranging the pieces on the chessboard to entrap his enemy. Now a wager made in jest threatens to waylay his plans … and his heart. Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning. The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy. But there is more to Will than meets the eye – a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge or will they both be consumed by the tempest? The Speed of Seduction is a steamy reformed rake, revenge Regency romance. It is the second book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will this wager be the end of him …
It has been a few months now I have discovered the author’s work, each new story a delight.
I just loved this one, the main characters are sweet and very lovable.
William reshaped his life after the traumatic disappearance of a friend, determined to find the culprit but it is no simple case, it seems to reach beyond the usual spheres.
So when a wager led him on the path of an innocent young woman, he is soon torn between what he sees as his duty to his friend and his unexpected attraction to the miss he must court to win his wager. And when the initial pull turns to much more, he might loose much if his secrets and the reason of his courtship come into the light.
Simone is the youngest in a long line of noisy siblings, such she is not seen nor heard or only for the fun of some of them. So when picked from the crowd by Duke-to-be rake, it leads to various reactions from her brood of brothers and sisters. And while she is like them at loss about being selected among a sea of debutantes. Yet once William breaks the walls of her reserve, she gains in confidence, becoming the woman she was always meant to be but she never was until she gained her own voice.
And while the background plot is to be continued in the next book, the romance part finds its completion. And what a lovely love story the author grants us. While they are much different from one another, from different backgrounds, Simone and William listen to the other, supporting one another and together, they are stronger.
4.5 stars
I can not wait for the next as it will feature a character who intrigues me.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/elodiesread...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
A Reformed Rake Regency Romance
Racing Rogues Book 2
✒️ Cara Maxwell
https://www.facebook.com/caramaxwellr...
Release Date 12/26/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09G586B1G/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
He has spent years arranging the pieces on the chessboard to entrap his enemy. Now a wager made in jest threatens to waylay his plans … and his heart. Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning. The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy. But there is more to Will than meets the eye – a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge or will they both be consumed by the tempest? The Speed of Seduction is a steamy reformed rake, revenge Regency romance. It is the second book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will this wager be the end of him …
It has been a few months now I have discovered the author’s work, each new story a delight.
I just loved this one, the main characters are sweet and very lovable.
William reshaped his life after the traumatic disappearance of a friend, determined to find the culprit but it is no simple case, it seems to reach beyond the usual spheres.
So when a wager led him on the path of an innocent young woman, he is soon torn between what he sees as his duty to his friend and his unexpected attraction to the miss he must court to win his wager. And when the initial pull turns to much more, he might loose much if his secrets and the reason of his courtship come into the light.
Simone is the youngest in a long line of noisy siblings, such she is not seen nor heard or only for the fun of some of them. So when picked from the crowd by Duke-to-be rake, it leads to various reactions from her brood of brothers and sisters. And while she is like them at loss about being selected among a sea of debutantes. Yet once William breaks the walls of her reserve, she gains in confidence, becoming the woman she was always meant to be but she never was until she gained her own voice.
And while the background plot is to be continued in the next book, the romance part finds its completion. And what a lovely love story the author grants us. While they are much different from one another, from different backgrounds, Simone and William listen to the other, supporting one another and together, they are stronger.
4.5 stars
I can not wait for the next as it will feature a character who intrigues me.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/elodiesread...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
January 1, 2022
William Armstrong has spent years since he was very young perfecting his image as rake and gambler and building a large stable of precious racehorses. But he hides his real self to the world for a reason: revenge. Now a careless wager threatens his carefully laid plans and a young woman could prove his undoing…
Simone is the youngest of seven siblings and she’s always been neglected, underestimated and made fun of by her brothers and sisters. So when a future duke and renown rake suddenly begins to court her she is suspicious, and rightly so. But how can she resist seizing the opportunity of escaping from her stifling family and enjoying some freedom, even if the risk is falling in love with someone she can’t trust?
Cara Maxwell is a brilliant author, capable of writing intriguing dialogue as well as compelling descriptions. Thanks to her beautiful writing I was transported back in time among the crowd that gravitated around horse races in the 1830s and enjoyed the thrill of a world I didn’t know at all. She created two very young characters who know what they want and do whatever is necessary to obtain it. I loved witty, clever and sweet Simone who was willing to fight for her HEA and brave and honorable Will who forged a path for himself since he was very young, but really needed some love and beauty in his life.
I loved this book so much that I couldn’t put it down… And that’s not a figure of speech! I really HAD to read it to the end. I was so intrigued by the story that at first I was even a little disappointed that the author let some loose ends in the mystery plot that constitutes the backbone of the book, but I now see that it makes the series even more intriguing… I so look forward to the following books! Check the blurbs after reading this one and you’ll see for yourself why…
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Simone is the youngest of seven siblings and she’s always been neglected, underestimated and made fun of by her brothers and sisters. So when a future duke and renown rake suddenly begins to court her she is suspicious, and rightly so. But how can she resist seizing the opportunity of escaping from her stifling family and enjoying some freedom, even if the risk is falling in love with someone she can’t trust?
Cara Maxwell is a brilliant author, capable of writing intriguing dialogue as well as compelling descriptions. Thanks to her beautiful writing I was transported back in time among the crowd that gravitated around horse races in the 1830s and enjoyed the thrill of a world I didn’t know at all. She created two very young characters who know what they want and do whatever is necessary to obtain it. I loved witty, clever and sweet Simone who was willing to fight for her HEA and brave and honorable Will who forged a path for himself since he was very young, but really needed some love and beauty in his life.
I loved this book so much that I couldn’t put it down… And that’s not a figure of speech! I really HAD to read it to the end. I was so intrigued by the story that at first I was even a little disappointed that the author let some loose ends in the mystery plot that constitutes the backbone of the book, but I now see that it makes the series even more intriguing… I so look forward to the following books! Check the blurbs after reading this one and you’ll see for yourself why…
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 29, 2022
Excellent book
He has spent years arranging the pieces on the chessboard to entrap his enemy. Now a wager made in jest threatens to waylay his plans and his heart.
He made a bet that he could marry any woman in the room. Afterwards he couldn't believe that he had actually fallen in love with her.
However the syndicate that kidnapped his friend will not be brought down.
This book is excellent.
Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning.
The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy.
But there is more to Will than meets the eye – a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge or will they both be consumed by the tempest?
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
He has spent years arranging the pieces on the chessboard to entrap his enemy. Now a wager made in jest threatens to waylay his plans and his heart.
He made a bet that he could marry any woman in the room. Afterwards he couldn't believe that he had actually fallen in love with her.
However the syndicate that kidnapped his friend will not be brought down.
This book is excellent.
Meet William Armstrong: rogue, rakehell, devil may care duke-to-be. Everyone knows Will can’t walk away from a wager, especially if it involves horseracing. The subject of this wager? The prim and proper Lady Simone Laurent. This is a bet he will enjoy winning.
The youngest sister of a large and boisterous family, Simone is used to being overlooked. She is wise enough not to fall for a future duke’s honeyed words. But as she is swept into his world of racing and excitement she feels herself changing and becoming confident that the feelings Will inspires are more than a passing fancy.
But there is more to Will than meets the eye – a burning determination that he has carefully kept hidden from friends and family alike. When Simone discovers his secret, will she join his quest for revenge or will they both be consumed by the tempest?
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 5, 2023
I don't normally listen to audiobooks, but I wanted to give this book a go.
While I was a little unsure to begin with having a solo female narrator, I think she did wonderfully. It was a little jarring at first with her doing the male accent (again something I'm not really used to for not having listened to many audio's) but, it was something I quickly adjusted to and in the end didn't really notice. Sasha Higgins had a very lovely voice that was easy to listen to.
As for the story, it was wonderful. I enjoyed learning more about each of the characters. I liked the fact that though he was a rake, he didn't continue that side of his life after he met the heroine, something that usually puts me off a book.
I love an unexpected match story. Him being a Duke to be, her an overlooked younger sibling to many. The pair worked well together and I loved how their relationship grew, and he fell first! A trope I love.
The story does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but that just makes you want to read on (at least, it should). The couple had their HEA and the mysteries will no doubt be resolved, or explored further in the next book/s.
Overall, a lovely book by a new author to me.
I wouldn't hesitate to pick up others by this author.
While I was a little unsure to begin with having a solo female narrator, I think she did wonderfully. It was a little jarring at first with her doing the male accent (again something I'm not really used to for not having listened to many audio's) but, it was something I quickly adjusted to and in the end didn't really notice. Sasha Higgins had a very lovely voice that was easy to listen to.
As for the story, it was wonderful. I enjoyed learning more about each of the characters. I liked the fact that though he was a rake, he didn't continue that side of his life after he met the heroine, something that usually puts me off a book.
I love an unexpected match story. Him being a Duke to be, her an overlooked younger sibling to many. The pair worked well together and I loved how their relationship grew, and he fell first! A trope I love.
The story does end with a lot of unanswered questions, but that just makes you want to read on (at least, it should). The couple had their HEA and the mysteries will no doubt be resolved, or explored further in the next book/s.
Overall, a lovely book by a new author to me.
I wouldn't hesitate to pick up others by this author.
January 1, 2022
This series is getting more interesting with each turn of the page. The backdrop is more intriguing and I find myself starting to figure out the mystery...I like a mystery imbedded in a good love story and that it involves multiple books makes it all the better.
Will and Simone are fantastic together. She has this quiet way of breaking down walls, seeing things so many othets miss and being undervalued and under- appreciated by her large boisterous family. He is splendid in his own self confidence. It opens doors, allows opportunities and charmingly annoys her brothers, mostly the eldest.
Simone's sassiness is disarming. Seeing her come into her self was a joy. From mousey youngest often forgotten young woman to taking on butlers in the homes of dukes and the sons. Watching her take her stand with her family and then with Will made my heart sing.
Disclaimer: I received a complementary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in anyway.
Will and Simone are fantastic together. She has this quiet way of breaking down walls, seeing things so many othets miss and being undervalued and under- appreciated by her large boisterous family. He is splendid in his own self confidence. It opens doors, allows opportunities and charmingly annoys her brothers, mostly the eldest.
Simone's sassiness is disarming. Seeing her come into her self was a joy. From mousey youngest often forgotten young woman to taking on butlers in the homes of dukes and the sons. Watching her take her stand with her family and then with Will made my heart sing.
Disclaimer: I received a complementary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in anyway.
January 4, 2022
Wow! There is so much going on in this story! A bet triggered Will’s courting of Simone, but he soon found himself falling for her. Meantime, he was investigating the death of his best friend, and running his own racehorse business. This story has some very humorous moments; a dysfunctional family with seven siblings; father/son issues; danger; heartache and secrets. Be prepared to read it in one sitting, as you will not be able to put it down. Will in a very determined, focused and loyal man who gets to experience his playful side with Simone. She is witty, inquisitive and tired of being the ignored youngest member of her family. Watching her come into her own is delightful. They bring out the best in each other, and the story’s ending is a most unexpected example of their love and trust. This is such a good book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2022
Worth more than a wager
Will is a heir to a Dukedom. He is a horse mad, a rake and a gambler but is he. He is also young but has seen and survived a lot! His love of a wager has led him to Simone. Simone is the youngest she is bullied, over looked and discounted. Literally forgotten at home at the ball she and Will met at!
Scandal sheets were full of Will and his exploits so he couldn't possibly be interested in her?? Her family were shocked and her older brother Peter was belittling and scathing about it until he wasn't!
You will want to smack Will then cheer for him as he works out revenge verses finding a woman that loves you! Simone is intelligent and beautiful she keeps Will on his toes and does not make it easy for him!
When things get dangerous Will listens to Simone as she pleads with him to choose wisely! Get ready to not put this one down! These two love birds will stay with you long after the last page.
Will is a heir to a Dukedom. He is a horse mad, a rake and a gambler but is he. He is also young but has seen and survived a lot! His love of a wager has led him to Simone. Simone is the youngest she is bullied, over looked and discounted. Literally forgotten at home at the ball she and Will met at!
Scandal sheets were full of Will and his exploits so he couldn't possibly be interested in her?? Her family were shocked and her older brother Peter was belittling and scathing about it until he wasn't!
You will want to smack Will then cheer for him as he works out revenge verses finding a woman that loves you! Simone is intelligent and beautiful she keeps Will on his toes and does not make it easy for him!
When things get dangerous Will listens to Simone as she pleads with him to choose wisely! Get ready to not put this one down! These two love birds will stay with you long after the last page.
September 20, 2023
How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days Vibe
The second book in the Racing Rogues series features Will and Simone. The MC meet due to the MMC and his friends making placing a wager on Will being able to marry any woman in the room. While a different take on the movie, it definitely gave off How to Lose a Guy in 10 days vibe-at least from the men’s side. Will is redeemed in this story due to being open and ready with his feelings with Simone almost from the beginning of their meeting one another. The author does a good job of getting you emotionally invested in the MC. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see how the overall series plot continues. Contains 2-3 open door scenes that furthers the plot and are steamy.
The second book in the Racing Rogues series features Will and Simone. The MC meet due to the MMC and his friends making placing a wager on Will being able to marry any woman in the room. While a different take on the movie, it definitely gave off How to Lose a Guy in 10 days vibe-at least from the men’s side. Will is redeemed in this story due to being open and ready with his feelings with Simone almost from the beginning of their meeting one another. The author does a good job of getting you emotionally invested in the MC. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see how the overall series plot continues. Contains 2-3 open door scenes that furthers the plot and are steamy.
December 24, 2021
Secrets do have a way of coming out.
Horse racing, mystery, and love are the bases of this awesome read. I really liked the hero and heroine in this one. It did all start with a bet and yes that just might bit someone at the wrong time but the mystery in the story is still ongoing and one of my favorite characters may just be the feature character in the next book. This piece was very well-written Simone family was something else. There is the right touch of humor and drama in this gem. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Horse racing, mystery, and love are the bases of this awesome read. I really liked the hero and heroine in this one. It did all start with a bet and yes that just might bit someone at the wrong time but the mystery in the story is still ongoing and one of my favorite characters may just be the feature character in the next book. This piece was very well-written Simone family was something else. There is the right touch of humor and drama in this gem. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 15, 2023
I would’ve rated 4 stars but for the lack of polish (was there even a real editor?) So distracting to keep bumping into non-words (seriously, go try to find “alright” in the dictionary), wrong homonyms (you RAP at the door, not “wrap!”), to say nothing of all the punctuation issues and sentence fragments.
The story itself was fine, though the big, bad mystery of the crime syndicate behind the missing (and presumed dead) friend is never resolved beyond the assumption it involves the peerage.
The story itself was fine, though the big, bad mystery of the crime syndicate behind the missing (and presumed dead) friend is never resolved beyond the assumption it involves the peerage.
January 5, 2022
The second book in the Racing Rogues series. Duke-to-be William Armstrong and Lady Simone Laurent's story.There is suspense, drama, danger, villains, twists, turns, and romance.The mastermind is still causing trouble. This series is just getting better with each book. I want to read the next one. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2023
Will and Simone were a fun couple. It was enjoyable watching Simone begin standing up for herself and Will fall in love with her despite the wager. I was a little baffled by Simone’s brother’s response to Will; I felt like there was history of some kind there, but it was never explained. I’m enjoying this series.
March 22, 2022
A wager
This is a continuation of the previous book but certainly is its own story. A Viscount is drawn into a wager that turns into a life changing event. A good live story and the mystery of the horse racing rigging and his friends death becomes more mysterious!
This is a continuation of the previous book but certainly is its own story. A Viscount is drawn into a wager that turns into a life changing event. A good live story and the mystery of the horse racing rigging and his friends death becomes more mysterious!
April 15, 2022
A delightful regency romance from start to finish. Cara Maxwell crafts a wonderful story and I was drawn in to William and Simone's love story. This is book 2 in the Racing Rogues series and brings a good mix of passion, intrigue and romance.
June 11, 2022
I like this series more with each book I have read, even reading them out of order. The MC’s are both complicated, likable characters. Simone truly is the star of the story and I enjoyed the progression of her character from the overlooked youngest sibling to the confident woman she becomes. This is a great sequel in this series.
I obtained this book through Kindle Unlimited.
I obtained this book through Kindle Unlimited.
June 16, 2022
Start this lovely NC17 post-Regency romance, involving a disappearance and the horse-racing circuit in England, early in the day unless you you are up for an all-nighter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2022
Bets to love?
Can a young lady overcome her life as the youngest child to find love? Can a son and father reconcile their differences? Finding a solution can bring them all together.
Can a young lady overcome her life as the youngest child to find love? Can a son and father reconcile their differences? Finding a solution can bring them all together.
March 1, 2023
I read this series in completely the wrong order but it didn’t matter much. This was a great instalment and I loved Will and Simone. Reading their growth and development throughout the book was a delight and it was nice to have them find their way.
Want to read
November 9, 2022 🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/9/2022)! 🎁
November 12, 2022
cliffhanger
I was quite enjoying this until it came to an abrupt end without solving the mystery, and now I feel I wasted my time reading it.
I was quite enjoying this until it came to an abrupt end without solving the mystery, and now I feel I wasted my time reading it.
November 16, 2022
A Speedy Read
The intrigue and romance kept me speeding through The Speed of Seduction. Enjoyed the characters, especially the handsome suedo rake!
Will recommend to friends.
The intrigue and romance kept me speeding through The Speed of Seduction. Enjoyed the characters, especially the handsome suedo rake!
Will recommend to friends.
November 30, 2022
Enjoyed the read
Fast moving kept my interest. I would recommend anyone who enjoyes a good romance among people of different backgrounds, you would enjoy this read.
Fast moving kept my interest. I would recommend anyone who enjoyes a good romance among people of different backgrounds, you would enjoy this read.
January 4, 2023
Wonderful
Loved every minute of it. Couldn’t put it down. Loved both characters. Will and Simone are perfect for one another.
Loved every minute of it. Couldn’t put it down. Loved both characters. Will and Simone are perfect for one another.
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