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Racing Rogues #1
One Rake to Ruin
An earl on a mission of redemption
The surly Earl of Fordham is determined to rehabilitate the estate his father left in ruins. But it will take careful planning, focus, and more than a little luck. Eric’s hopes are pinned on his prized racehorse, and the most important race of the Newmarket racing meeting. He cannot afford any complications.
A headstrong young woman searching for purpose
When Daniela Rames rides into Newmarket, torn from her family and her home, she is grasping for some shadow of her old life. And she finds it aboard Newmarket’s most notoriously difficult racehorse. But in the arms of the horse’s owner, she finds something completely new and unexpected.
Horrified to discover the identity of the new exercise rider in his employ but desperate to protect his investment, Eric is drawn into Daniela’s deception. As the trust between them grows, so does their attraction. But nefarious forces are determined to keep their beloved horse from winning – and Daniela and Eric will each be asked to make the ultimate sacrifice …
One Race to Ruin is a steamy secret identity Regency romance. It is the first book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
The surly Earl of Fordham is determined to rehabilitate the estate his father left in ruins. But it will take careful planning, focus, and more than a little luck. Eric’s hopes are pinned on his prized racehorse, and the most important race of the Newmarket racing meeting. He cannot afford any complications.
A headstrong young woman searching for purpose
When Daniela Rames rides into Newmarket, torn from her family and her home, she is grasping for some shadow of her old life. And she finds it aboard Newmarket’s most notoriously difficult racehorse. But in the arms of the horse’s owner, she finds something completely new and unexpected.
Horrified to discover the identity of the new exercise rider in his employ but desperate to protect his investment, Eric is drawn into Daniela’s deception. As the trust between them grows, so does their attraction. But nefarious forces are determined to keep their beloved horse from winning – and Daniela and Eric will each be asked to make the ultimate sacrifice …
One Race to Ruin is a steamy secret identity Regency romance. It is the first book in Cara Maxwell’s new series, Racing Rogues.
Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2021
253 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
About the author
Cara Maxwell
26 books125 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 37 reviews
January 18, 2025
3.5 stars. Fun. Hot. Got boring towards the end.
September 6, 2021
Stirrup the Steam!
This is Cara Maxwell's steamiest book yet! It also had me on tenterhooks at certain points. The will-they-or-won't-they dynamic between Eric and Daniela is palatable and creates an irresistible current of tension that made this book impossible to put down!
Daniela is a fiery red-head determined to live life on her own terms. With her mother dead, her father has shipped her off to live with relatives--but the situation soon becomes untenable for her. Meanwhile, Daniela is quickly risking her reputation with a side mission of her own--racing horses in disguise. Her passion for horses leads her to a newfound passion--for the Earl of Fordham, a man who is infuriating, exasperating, and all too tempting for her own good.
As the first in a brand new series, One Race to Ruin also sets up a suspenseful subplot--similar to the mystery that runs through Sabrina Jeffries' Duke Dynasty series. I was left eager to follow some of the characters into the new book in order to find out how it all plays out.
I received an ARC copy of this book for review purposes.
Steam Level: Steamy! 3/5
This is Cara Maxwell's steamiest book yet! It also had me on tenterhooks at certain points. The will-they-or-won't-they dynamic between Eric and Daniela is palatable and creates an irresistible current of tension that made this book impossible to put down!
Daniela is a fiery red-head determined to live life on her own terms. With her mother dead, her father has shipped her off to live with relatives--but the situation soon becomes untenable for her. Meanwhile, Daniela is quickly risking her reputation with a side mission of her own--racing horses in disguise. Her passion for horses leads her to a newfound passion--for the Earl of Fordham, a man who is infuriating, exasperating, and all too tempting for her own good.
As the first in a brand new series, One Race to Ruin also sets up a suspenseful subplot--similar to the mystery that runs through Sabrina Jeffries' Duke Dynasty series. I was left eager to follow some of the characters into the new book in order to find out how it all plays out.
I received an ARC copy of this book for review purposes.
Steam Level: Steamy! 3/5
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August 26, 2021
🏇🏻 One Race to Ruin 🏇🏻
A Secret Identity Regency Romance
Racing Rogues Book 1
✒️ Cara Maxwell
https://www.facebook.com/Cara-Maxwell...
Release Date 09/02/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BJ8PXBK/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
An earl on a mission of redemption
The surly Earl of Fordham is determined to rehabilitate the estate his father left in ruins. But it will take careful planning, focus, and more than a little luck. Eric’s hopes are pinned on his prized racehorse, and the most important race of the Newmarket racing meeting. He cannot afford any complications.
A headstrong young woman searching for purpose
When Daniela Rames rides into Newmarket, torn from her family and her home, she is grasping for some shadow of her old life. And she finds it aboard Newmarket’s most notoriously difficult racehorse. But in the arms of the horse’s owner, she finds something completely new and unexpected.
Horrified to discover the identity of the new exercise rider in his employ but desperate to protect his investment, Eric is drawn into Daniela’s deception. As the trust between them grows, so does their attraction. But nefarious forces are determined to keep their beloved horse from winning – and Daniela and Eric will each be asked to make the ultimate sacrifice …
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will love suffice when his world might crumble down…
I discovered the author’s work with her previous release. So I was determined to not miss the next.
Plus this new series is set in a world I have not recently read about.
Eric is truly to save his estate and remaining relatives from complete destitution, but for this he has only one path, one he must not deviate and even, it is will take time and patience.
I loved him, his journey is one of hardship and even when threatened, even when he knows what he might loose, he refuses to bend down. He makes errors but honor is what leads his course. But he is racing against more cunning than him.
I had more mixed feelings about Daniella, I loved her independent side but being bold does not redeem her for being irresponsible.
Okay, she takes risk with her reputation, then she should play the part, not being rude with Eric when she sees him again as a woman when he does not know who she is, nor kiss him when he believes her to be a boy.
She does not play fair. She ruins herself then is angry but she is the one who put her name in jeopardy. Even if she wants to put her mark, in some way she must find a compromise between what she wants and the world she lives in. Worse, by ruining herself, she taints others by extension.
With Eric, she plays hot and cold, unsettling him when he is already a bit lost, overwhelmed by his circumstances and in need of guidance.
An intriguing first book as I wonder where the next book will lead us.
4 stars
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/p/CTCHQxKDP...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #romancebookstagrammer #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #readersofinstagram #arcreader #bookquote
A Secret Identity Regency Romance
Racing Rogues Book 1
✒️ Cara Maxwell
https://www.facebook.com/Cara-Maxwell...
Release Date 09/02/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BJ8PXBK/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
An earl on a mission of redemption
The surly Earl of Fordham is determined to rehabilitate the estate his father left in ruins. But it will take careful planning, focus, and more than a little luck. Eric’s hopes are pinned on his prized racehorse, and the most important race of the Newmarket racing meeting. He cannot afford any complications.
A headstrong young woman searching for purpose
When Daniela Rames rides into Newmarket, torn from her family and her home, she is grasping for some shadow of her old life. And she finds it aboard Newmarket’s most notoriously difficult racehorse. But in the arms of the horse’s owner, she finds something completely new and unexpected.
Horrified to discover the identity of the new exercise rider in his employ but desperate to protect his investment, Eric is drawn into Daniela’s deception. As the trust between them grows, so does their attraction. But nefarious forces are determined to keep their beloved horse from winning – and Daniela and Eric will each be asked to make the ultimate sacrifice …
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will love suffice when his world might crumble down…
I discovered the author’s work with her previous release. So I was determined to not miss the next.
Plus this new series is set in a world I have not recently read about.
Eric is truly to save his estate and remaining relatives from complete destitution, but for this he has only one path, one he must not deviate and even, it is will take time and patience.
I loved him, his journey is one of hardship and even when threatened, even when he knows what he might loose, he refuses to bend down. He makes errors but honor is what leads his course. But he is racing against more cunning than him.
I had more mixed feelings about Daniella, I loved her independent side but being bold does not redeem her for being irresponsible.
Okay, she takes risk with her reputation, then she should play the part, not being rude with Eric when she sees him again as a woman when he does not know who she is, nor kiss him when he believes her to be a boy.
She does not play fair. She ruins herself then is angry but she is the one who put her name in jeopardy. Even if she wants to put her mark, in some way she must find a compromise between what she wants and the world she lives in. Worse, by ruining herself, she taints others by extension.
With Eric, she plays hot and cold, unsettling him when he is already a bit lost, overwhelmed by his circumstances and in need of guidance.
An intriguing first book as I wonder where the next book will lead us.
4 stars
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/p/CTCHQxKDP...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #romancebookstagrammer #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #readersofinstagram #arcreader #bookquote
September 7, 2021
This was my first Cara Maxwell book, and It did not disappoint! This is the first book in her series Racing Rogues, and it is a steamy secret identity Regency romance.
I haven’t read a historical romance with the secret identity type plot, but I ended up loving it. It brought such a fun dynamic to the story as I was constantly on her side hoping she didn’t get caught but knowing at some point the truth had to come out!
The meetings we had between Dani and Eric were very entertaining and knowing Dani had to hide her two selves from him made it all the more entertaining and the growing attraction between them was slow-burn excellence. All the more so with the added layer of waiting for her identity to come out!
I also really enjoyed the racecourse setting; it was something I haven’t read before but a nice change of pace from London high society settings and made Dani and Eric feel much more relatable. I liked that this was not about Dani being in the marriage market but her simply following her passions even though they were not deemed acceptable by society. The prized horse was also such a great character, his fiery personality made for some interesting scenes and I became just as invested in seeing this horse win as the characters were.
The story had a good pace and the relationship and feelings developed at a rate that felt realistic. The discovery of her identity happened at the perfect time and I just adored the story and how everything ended up working out.
Daniela was such a wonderful character, she was bold, fierce, and confident in herself and her abilities, I couldn’t help but love her. Her strength and independence were so beautiful to read. Winnie was also such a delightful character, whilst we didn’t get that much time with her, she was such a pure and kind human that I really hope we get more from her in the future. I enjoyed Eric’s character more as he began to warm up to Dani and open up more, they were very well suited and the romance was perfect.
Overall, I loved the hidden identity aspect and that Dani flounced society and stayed true to herself even if it meant she has to pretend. Both Eric and Daniela had their secrets, and I adored seeing them slowly come out. The plot was gripping with an interesting setting and the romance was a delicious slow burn. Highly recommend it to fans of historical romance, hidden identity trope, and racecourse settings!
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy, this had no bearing on my thoughts in this review.
Actual Rating 4.5
I haven’t read a historical romance with the secret identity type plot, but I ended up loving it. It brought such a fun dynamic to the story as I was constantly on her side hoping she didn’t get caught but knowing at some point the truth had to come out!
The meetings we had between Dani and Eric were very entertaining and knowing Dani had to hide her two selves from him made it all the more entertaining and the growing attraction between them was slow-burn excellence. All the more so with the added layer of waiting for her identity to come out!
I also really enjoyed the racecourse setting; it was something I haven’t read before but a nice change of pace from London high society settings and made Dani and Eric feel much more relatable. I liked that this was not about Dani being in the marriage market but her simply following her passions even though they were not deemed acceptable by society. The prized horse was also such a great character, his fiery personality made for some interesting scenes and I became just as invested in seeing this horse win as the characters were.
The story had a good pace and the relationship and feelings developed at a rate that felt realistic. The discovery of her identity happened at the perfect time and I just adored the story and how everything ended up working out.
Daniela was such a wonderful character, she was bold, fierce, and confident in herself and her abilities, I couldn’t help but love her. Her strength and independence were so beautiful to read. Winnie was also such a delightful character, whilst we didn’t get that much time with her, she was such a pure and kind human that I really hope we get more from her in the future. I enjoyed Eric’s character more as he began to warm up to Dani and open up more, they were very well suited and the romance was perfect.
Overall, I loved the hidden identity aspect and that Dani flounced society and stayed true to herself even if it meant she has to pretend. Both Eric and Daniela had their secrets, and I adored seeing them slowly come out. The plot was gripping with an interesting setting and the romance was a delicious slow burn. Highly recommend it to fans of historical romance, hidden identity trope, and racecourse settings!
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy, this had no bearing on my thoughts in this review.
Actual Rating 4.5
February 7, 2022
Wow, what a great start to a new series ! This is book one of the Racing Rogues. Sure, hope the rest are this good. We have a new Earl, Eric trying to save his estate that his father mostly gambled away.
He is putting all his faith in his racer, Mercury. He must win the most important race in England. Mercury is super strong and fast unfortunately he has a horrible habit of biting, not minding and being a Hellion to everyone around him. The stableboys are all afraid of him.
Daniella is in London while her father a famous horse breeder tends to business in Scotland.
She is staying with her father's brother, Baxter and Aunt Millie and a younger cousin Winnie.
Daniella was raised by her father and loves everything about horses, and nothing about the balls, parties and what society thinks a lady should do. Her Aunt and her do not get along. Aunt Millie is nasty and unfeeling. Feeling lost and alone she finds a way to go to Newmarket the horse track. She dresses as an exercise rider. Totally by accident she saves Mercury then becomes the new exercise rider !! Oh, my now the fun really begins. Can Daniella keep up being both a young lady and a boy too?
What will Eric do if he finds out ? Who is the mystery man threatening Eric and what does he know
about his father and debts ? There is intrigue, twist and turns as both Eric and Daniella keep secrets and feeling hidden. I could not put this book down, read it in one setting. I can't wait to start book two.
The only thing I disliked is the Spanish words or saying that Daniella is always saying under her breath
it would have been nice to know what they were. I think it would have added to the story to know what she was saying. I hope you get a copy and get started trust me you will not be disappointed.
He is putting all his faith in his racer, Mercury. He must win the most important race in England. Mercury is super strong and fast unfortunately he has a horrible habit of biting, not minding and being a Hellion to everyone around him. The stableboys are all afraid of him.
Daniella is in London while her father a famous horse breeder tends to business in Scotland.
She is staying with her father's brother, Baxter and Aunt Millie and a younger cousin Winnie.
Daniella was raised by her father and loves everything about horses, and nothing about the balls, parties and what society thinks a lady should do. Her Aunt and her do not get along. Aunt Millie is nasty and unfeeling. Feeling lost and alone she finds a way to go to Newmarket the horse track. She dresses as an exercise rider. Totally by accident she saves Mercury then becomes the new exercise rider !! Oh, my now the fun really begins. Can Daniella keep up being both a young lady and a boy too?
What will Eric do if he finds out ? Who is the mystery man threatening Eric and what does he know
about his father and debts ? There is intrigue, twist and turns as both Eric and Daniella keep secrets and feeling hidden. I could not put this book down, read it in one setting. I can't wait to start book two.
The only thing I disliked is the Spanish words or saying that Daniella is always saying under her breath
it would have been nice to know what they were. I think it would have added to the story to know what she was saying. I hope you get a copy and get started trust me you will not be disappointed.
September 2, 2021
This book has it all-a determined and unconventional heroine, a broody hero, dire circumstances and the perfect amount of sexual tension. The racing scenes were exciting and each scene was beautifully described.
Dani is horse racing royalty and I love her character. She's not afraid of what she wants and doesn't feel the need to fit in. She knows what she's good at and goes to great lengths to be true to herself. Her father is the leading thoroughbred breeder but has encountered difficult times and Dani's been sent to live with her uncle while he sorts things out. I love the friendship that grows between Dani and her cousin.
Eric, the new Earl of Fordham is desperately trying to train a racehorse that could be the one to save his family’s earldom from financial ruin by winning the 2000 Guineas race. He doesn't have the luxury of making any mistakes as he tries to salvage his family's name and secure his future. Without a doubt he's attracted to Dani but what does he have to offer a wife at this point in his life?
This is an emotional start to this series and it had me teary a couple times. The chemistry between Eric and Dani is palpable and steamy! There’s an unexpected twist at the end that has me ready for the next book NOW.
Dani is horse racing royalty and I love her character. She's not afraid of what she wants and doesn't feel the need to fit in. She knows what she's good at and goes to great lengths to be true to herself. Her father is the leading thoroughbred breeder but has encountered difficult times and Dani's been sent to live with her uncle while he sorts things out. I love the friendship that grows between Dani and her cousin.
Eric, the new Earl of Fordham is desperately trying to train a racehorse that could be the one to save his family’s earldom from financial ruin by winning the 2000 Guineas race. He doesn't have the luxury of making any mistakes as he tries to salvage his family's name and secure his future. Without a doubt he's attracted to Dani but what does he have to offer a wife at this point in his life?
This is an emotional start to this series and it had me teary a couple times. The chemistry between Eric and Dani is palpable and steamy! There’s an unexpected twist at the end that has me ready for the next book NOW.
September 3, 2021
So good! Daniella is the daughter of a famous racehorse breader. Eric is an impoverished earl whose father left him deep in debt. Racing a tempermental horse named Mercury seems to be Eric’s first step in getting his estate back on even footing….that is, of course, if Mercury wins. Daniella has been sent to live with her Aunt and Uncle while her father handles a business issue. Missing working with horses, and finding her aunt’s controlling and condescending nature hard to tolerate, Daniela dresses up as a boy (Dani) and becomes the exercise rider for Mercury. Eric and Daniella meet socially and it is fireworks. When he discovers her deception, things escalate. Add a couple of thugs with a mysterious employer, a snide and oily competitor, and raging gossip about ruination to the mix, and you have an exciting tale. You will ride a rollercoaster of emotions, find yourself holding your breath and waiting anxiously for the next book in the series, as there is an ominous threat still hanging in the air.
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.
September 3, 2021
Daniela's Deception . . .
Daniela Rames is the stubborn and headstrong daughter of a famous racehorse breeder who is temporarily living with her Aunt and Uncle. Eric, Earl of Fordham, is an honorable man trying to save the estate his father left in ruins. He has family that depend on him and he doesn’t want to let them down. All his hopes are on a prized racehorse, Mercury, and the upcoming Newmarket race which will save or destroy him.
Daniela wants to get away from her aunt’s annoying attitude and wants to work with horses again. So she disguises herself as “Dani”, an exercise boy, and has the opportunity to exercise Mercury, Eric’s champion racehorse. From there, things will fall apart and you won’t want to miss this wild emotional ride where Eric can lose absolutely everything with Daniela’s thoughtless, selfish, stubborn behavior. Granted, there are additional forces at work to prevent Eric from winning, but Daniela did put him in a very awkward position and has distracted him from his vital purpose. What kind of issues is he now facing? Grab your copy and see where we are left in this story until the next book continues.
Daniela Rames is the stubborn and headstrong daughter of a famous racehorse breeder who is temporarily living with her Aunt and Uncle. Eric, Earl of Fordham, is an honorable man trying to save the estate his father left in ruins. He has family that depend on him and he doesn’t want to let them down. All his hopes are on a prized racehorse, Mercury, and the upcoming Newmarket race which will save or destroy him.
Daniela wants to get away from her aunt’s annoying attitude and wants to work with horses again. So she disguises herself as “Dani”, an exercise boy, and has the opportunity to exercise Mercury, Eric’s champion racehorse. From there, things will fall apart and you won’t want to miss this wild emotional ride where Eric can lose absolutely everything with Daniela’s thoughtless, selfish, stubborn behavior. Granted, there are additional forces at work to prevent Eric from winning, but Daniela did put him in a very awkward position and has distracted him from his vital purpose. What kind of issues is he now facing? Grab your copy and see where we are left in this story until the next book continues.
August 10, 2022
This is a new author for me. I do like to let you guys know when it is a new author. I recently read another new author that I enjoyed and read her whole 4 book series but then after that, I read another new author and didn’t even finish it. I stopped at 30%. So even though I research new authors, I don’t always find a gem.
I have to say it really took me a bit longer than usual to read this book Granted, I've been busy at work not able to read on my lunch hour. It was the weekend and I was watching a ton of new Netflix movies and shows but with that being said, I would probably like to read another book of hers to get a good feel of her writing. It isn’t fair to her that I was too busy and only read in little spurts which to me doesn’t allow to get engrossed in a story as I do with my usual reading style.
This book was good. I did enjoy it and it got better the more I read but truthfully, I think I will switch up her series and start fresh with A Love Match for the Marquess (The Hesitant Husbands Book 1). That series sounds more to my liking. Because it got better towards the end, I will probably go back and finish this series.
Overall not bad and thought it was good!
I have to say it really took me a bit longer than usual to read this book Granted, I've been busy at work not able to read on my lunch hour. It was the weekend and I was watching a ton of new Netflix movies and shows but with that being said, I would probably like to read another book of hers to get a good feel of her writing. It isn’t fair to her that I was too busy and only read in little spurts which to me doesn’t allow to get engrossed in a story as I do with my usual reading style.
This book was good. I did enjoy it and it got better the more I read but truthfully, I think I will switch up her series and start fresh with A Love Match for the Marquess (The Hesitant Husbands Book 1). That series sounds more to my liking. Because it got better towards the end, I will probably go back and finish this series.
Overall not bad and thought it was good!
January 1, 2022
What a ride!
This is a great start to a series. I really liked the intrigue in the background, it added an Interesting layer of drama.
Dani, Daniela Rames, is confident, smart and excellent on a horse. She has had troubles in her life, but being with her uncle and his wife is brutal. Her cousin, Winnie, is the unexpected bright light. Feeling untethered she makes the plan to take back some of her life and put horses more upfront in her life. It's a good plan, but you know the adage about the best laid plans.... Even with things falling apart around her, she keeps her composure and wits. This is a good thing since the man in the plan mucks it up repeatedly, despite his plans.
Eric, the Earl of Fordham, just wants to get his estate back in the black. He has so much on his mind that he, and his training staff, completely miss that Dani is not what they think. Men!! Then he tries to do what HE thinks is best and ridiculousness raises its head.
They could both use a strong, caring and compassionate older woman to help them, but neither have that available. So we have two people with strong feelings for the other not communicating with each other and him wanting to keep important matters from her. Thankfully, we have Dani's dad, there to gently, but firmly shake them. This book is steamer than other books by Ms. Maxwell and it was done with grace and style. I enjoyed it very much.
The underlying intrigue was interesting and, while occasionally tense, a great addition to the story. Obviously that intrigue will be in each book of the series and I find myself wanting more, only to have to wait. Who is that man in the shadows? What is his actual goal, his plan, his reasoning? I am hooked. Thank you Ms.Maxwell, something to look forward to as we enter a new year.
This is a great start to a series. I really liked the intrigue in the background, it added an Interesting layer of drama.
Dani, Daniela Rames, is confident, smart and excellent on a horse. She has had troubles in her life, but being with her uncle and his wife is brutal. Her cousin, Winnie, is the unexpected bright light. Feeling untethered she makes the plan to take back some of her life and put horses more upfront in her life. It's a good plan, but you know the adage about the best laid plans.... Even with things falling apart around her, she keeps her composure and wits. This is a good thing since the man in the plan mucks it up repeatedly, despite his plans.
Eric, the Earl of Fordham, just wants to get his estate back in the black. He has so much on his mind that he, and his training staff, completely miss that Dani is not what they think. Men!! Then he tries to do what HE thinks is best and ridiculousness raises its head.
They could both use a strong, caring and compassionate older woman to help them, but neither have that available. So we have two people with strong feelings for the other not communicating with each other and him wanting to keep important matters from her. Thankfully, we have Dani's dad, there to gently, but firmly shake them. This book is steamer than other books by Ms. Maxwell and it was done with grace and style. I enjoyed it very much.
The underlying intrigue was interesting and, while occasionally tense, a great addition to the story. Obviously that intrigue will be in each book of the series and I find myself wanting more, only to have to wait. Who is that man in the shadows? What is his actual goal, his plan, his reasoning? I am hooked. Thank you Ms.Maxwell, something to look forward to as we enter a new year.
September 20, 2022
This is my first time reading author. Although I liked her writing style, there were some things that didn't met my expectations.
The most noticible one was the relationship between mcs.The begining was so good with all that gender blender drama & their initial interactions. However it went from harmless flirting to straight sex to declaring unconditional love. And when all these were happening there wasn't a single moment that they had a heart to heart conversation or a moment of connection where they liked each other beyond physical attractions.
Secondly the whole rake deal. While the ML was shown as a duty bound lord,dark,dominating, intimidating, but not as a rake. Infact,there only few lines that implied that which contradicted with the whole persona given the written style.
The overall plot good.It end with certain mystery. Hence the 2stars. Still I couldn't bring myself to read the rest of the series.
The most noticible one was the relationship between mcs.The begining was so good with all that gender blender drama & their initial interactions. However it went from harmless flirting to straight sex to declaring unconditional love. And when all these were happening there wasn't a single moment that they had a heart to heart conversation or a moment of connection where they liked each other beyond physical attractions.
Secondly the whole rake deal. While the ML was shown as a duty bound lord,dark,dominating, intimidating, but not as a rake. Infact,there only few lines that implied that which contradicted with the whole persona given the written style.
The overall plot good.It end with certain mystery. Hence the 2stars. Still I couldn't bring myself to read the rest of the series.
September 19, 2023
Steamy Post-Regency/Pre-Victorian Romance
I came across Cara Maxwell in her Lady Knights series and after finishing those decided to start my way through her Racing Rogues series. I enjoyed the story between Eric and Dani. I’d seen some reviews that thought the plot or MMC was weak. I can see how they could’ve arrived there; but also think it’s just as likely for someone to try to increase their profitability of an investment by making a few changes to business operations already in place rather than starting completely from scratch.
The author switches views between the MC from one paragraph to the next - I feel like the author did a good job with this and did not make it confusing. The ending seemed to come together abruptly and almost out of nowhere. I also cannot tell if all loose ends gets wrapped up or if we’ll see it later in the series.
I came across Cara Maxwell in her Lady Knights series and after finishing those decided to start my way through her Racing Rogues series. I enjoyed the story between Eric and Dani. I’d seen some reviews that thought the plot or MMC was weak. I can see how they could’ve arrived there; but also think it’s just as likely for someone to try to increase their profitability of an investment by making a few changes to business operations already in place rather than starting completely from scratch.
The author switches views between the MC from one paragraph to the next - I feel like the author did a good job with this and did not make it confusing. The ending seemed to come together abruptly and almost out of nowhere. I also cannot tell if all loose ends gets wrapped up or if we’ll see it later in the series.
September 2, 2021
Super start to this series.
Are you ready for some steamy goodness than this is the book for you? The chemistry between Eric and Daniela was off the chart awesome. Daniela is a very determined woman, and I really liked her character. Daniela and Eric have determination and the love of horses as common ground. It not long before the sparks start to fly. It ends with a mystery who is the bad guy? I can't wait till the next book in this series. It is a good book, well-written, and a great way to start the series. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
Are you ready for some steamy goodness than this is the book for you? The chemistry between Eric and Daniela was off the chart awesome. Daniela is a very determined woman, and I really liked her character. Daniela and Eric have determination and the love of horses as common ground. It not long before the sparks start to fly. It ends with a mystery who is the bad guy? I can't wait till the next book in this series. It is a good book, well-written, and a great way to start the series. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
September 3, 2021
The first book in the Racing Rogues series a well written story that kept me turning pages. Eric the Earl of Fordham and Daniela Rames meet when she starts training his horse disguised as a man. The story has suspense, drama, danger, villains, twists, turns, and romance. Who is the mastermind? I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 15, 2022
I’m reading this series out of order so this one was good for getting the backstory on characters that appear in later books. Both MC’s are likable and the story is fast paced. There are some interesting secondary characters and the set up for the rest of the series is set in motion. Overall a pleasant read.
I obtained this book through Kindle Unlimited.
I obtained this book through Kindle Unlimited.
dnf
September 28, 2022Dnf
First chapter was pretty boring. Writing made no attempt to sound like it’s in the 19th century. When the FMC says “anyways” (which isn’t even correct today), I said I’m done. Maybe I’m petty. But life’s too short to read poorly written books that don’t even try to sound like the time in which they are written.
First chapter was pretty boring. Writing made no attempt to sound like it’s in the 19th century. When the FMC says “anyways” (which isn’t even correct today), I said I’m done. Maybe I’m petty. But life’s too short to read poorly written books that don’t even try to sound like the time in which they are written.
December 1, 2022
interesting for like 5 chapters
Just because I gave this book 3 stars does not mean it’s not a good but I just feel like it wasn’t for me . It started off really good but then I got bored. The spicy scenes where well written even though there was not many of them. I have other book by this author and enjoyed them but didn’t enjoy this one as much
Just because I gave this book 3 stars does not mean it’s not a good but I just feel like it wasn’t for me . It started off really good but then I got bored. The spicy scenes where well written even though there was not many of them. I have other book by this author and enjoyed them but didn’t enjoy this one as much
October 11, 2024
The beginning was great. Later on the story became repetitive with their thoughts. They didn't communicate, so they jumped to conclusions. They went over and over their own thoughts, but it wasn't until the end they finally really talked. There was a large area towards the end that I had to skip over.
March 18, 2022
A lady in disguise.
I enjoyed this story very much it involves a spirited young woman determined to make her own way a very masculine young Earl in a financial predicament a wicked Aunt and a diabolical evil lurking about. A bit of a cliff hanger ending.
I enjoyed this story very much it involves a spirited young woman determined to make her own way a very masculine young Earl in a financial predicament a wicked Aunt and a diabolical evil lurking about. A bit of a cliff hanger ending.
May 27, 2022
Review of One Race to Ruin
I enjoyed reading One Race to Ruin: A Secret Identity very much. It was easy to get into and I finished it within a day. The subject matter was interesting and the characters believable and interesting.
I enjoyed reading One Race to Ruin: A Secret Identity very much. It was easy to get into and I finished it within a day. The subject matter was interesting and the characters believable and interesting.
June 30, 2022
Good read
Lord Fordham is counting on a race horse to earn him enough money to pay his creditors and put his state in order. Someone wants him to fail. He falls in and partners with his father-in-law. I wish the enemy had been revealed and defeated.
Lord Fordham is counting on a race horse to earn him enough money to pay his creditors and put his state in order. Someone wants him to fail. He falls in and partners with his father-in-law. I wish the enemy had been revealed and defeated.
January 13, 2023
I adored Eric and Dani’s story so much that I devoured it in one sitting. I don’t usually like secret identity stories, but this one drew me in and kept me turning pages well into the night. I highly recommend this book.
October 7, 2024
exciting
A really enjoyable book, I couldn’t put it down! I will look forward to reading more stories in this series! Who knew what happens inside horse stables? You’ll love this one for sure!
A really enjoyable book, I couldn’t put it down! I will look forward to reading more stories in this series! Who knew what happens inside horse stables? You’ll love this one for sure!
October 2, 2025
Romance rating: 3. Sexy times rating: 2. I liked that the expected response to things said in this book were not what happened. The switching of viewpoints within a page and back again took a little getting used to. But still an enjoyable story.
February 7, 2022
A very enjoyable regency romance, wonderful characters and story. One Race to Ruin gets off to a great start in the Racing Rogues series. Eric and Daniela make a grand couple with a fun ride to their happily ever after.
May 28, 2022
Great read
The story really captured my attention. I think the characters are well written and I enjoyed the book. I didn't want to put it down.
The story really captured my attention. I think the characters are well written and I enjoyed the book. I didn't want to put it down.
Read
September 24, 2022DNFing at 33%. I honestly do not have the desire to go back to the book. A shame, since I kind of liked the MCs, but the constantly switching POVs ruined the story for me.
December 1, 2022
My Musings
A lovely Recency romance with endearing characters and an emotionally charged plot. I am so glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited!
A lovely Recency romance with endearing characters and an emotionally charged plot. I am so glad I found this one in Kindle Unlimited!
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