Purity

Diamonds of the First Water #2

by Sydney Jane Baily

In this seductive early Victorian romance by USA Today Bestselling author Sydney Jane Baily, a proper young lady tries to civilize the unseemly bachelor baron. Can she do so without shattering her impeccable reputation?

She’s a straitlaced silk-stocking and he’s a scandalous fox!

Known as the “proper Diamond sister,” Lady Purity thoroughly enjoys adhering to the rules of society. Everything is right in her world when manners are minded and civility reigns. Clean gloves, no vulgarities, not a hair out of place!

Renowned for his past indiscretions, Lord Matthew Foxford doesn’t let propriety or tedious rules get in his way. Asking the prim earl’s daughter to teach him etiquette, he hopes to win her heart while loosening her corset.

Unaware of his intent, Purity agrees to turn this thundering buck into a reputable nobleman. Can she do so without falling for his seductive charm? Or will the Fox tempt her from the straight and narrow path into the garden of irreparable ruin?

Engaging characters, attention to period detail, and passionate romance with a touch of intrigue — you’ll find it all in the stories by USA Today bestselling author Sydney Jane Baily.

Diamonds of the First Water
#1 Clarity
#2 Purity
#3 Adam

Genres: Historical, Historical Romance, Romance, Historical Fiction, Amazon, Regency Romance, Fiction

337 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 9, 2022

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Sydney Jane Baily writes historical romance with engaging characters, attention to period detail, and sensual romance ~ often with a touch of intrigue. Amazon page: author.to/SydneyJaneBaily

A first-generation American daughter of Brits from either end of London, Sydney resides in Massachusetts with her family -- human, feline, and canine. The rest of her extended family live in the U.K. where she spent many happy childhood summers. She loves shandy, Maltesers, Cadbury bars, fish and chips, and anything from Harrod's food hall or in a Fortnum and Mason's basket.

Learn more about her books, read her blog, and contact her via her website at https://www.SydneyJaneBaily.com. She loves to hear from readers. On her site, you can also sign up for her Readers' Group and receive an occasional (not bothersome) newsletter along with a free book.

Reviews

[Jill booksandescape · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.

Purity by Sydney Jane Baily is the second book of the Diamonds of the First Water. Lady Purity masterfully adheres to the rules of proper society. Notorious rake Lord Matthew Foxford asks Purity for lessons in etiquette, while also hoping to win her heart. Unaware of his intent to make her his wife, Purity agrees to help him become a gentleman. She soon finds herself unable to resist her attraction to him.

There is so much going on in this book that I don’t want to spoil it by talking about the premise in too much detail. Just know I adored this couple and their entire dynamic right from the start. There were a couple bumps in the road, but the journey to Purity and Matthew’s happily ever after is well worth the read.

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute but his past almost ruined the story

Purity was awesome and Matthew was very determined to have her. Unfortunately, he had a salacious past and it followed him everywhere. One ex lover really pushed my patience to the limit! She was a horrid woman. Also his reputation worried her and it was talked about all the time. Enough already we know he was a rake. Don't keep bringing it up. I was disappointed in him but he definitely quit his ways after meeting Purity. Totally faithful to her. I liked that. Look forward to the next story.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series Diamonds of the First Water, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book. Purity is known as the proper sister; she believes in rules and manners. Matthew is known as a rake, and he likes it that way. But one kiss by accident sets his sights on Purity, and the only way he can get her is to ask her to teach him some etiquette. This was an enjoyable read with fun, passion and a little intrigue. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
Known as the “proper Diamond sister,” Lady Purity thoroughly enjoys adhering to the rules of society. Everything is right in her world when manners are minded and civility reigns. Clean gloves, no vulgarities, not a hair out of place! Renowned for his past indiscretions, Lord Matthew Foxford doesn’t let propriety or tedious rules get in his way. Asking the prim earl’s daughter to teach him etiquette, he hopes to win her heart. Purity agrees to turn this thundering buck into a reputable nobleman.
Purity is the second of the five Diamond siblings t have their story & hugely enjoyable read it was full of humour, nineteenth century sayings & terms & a rogue of a hero who I adored. I loved how they seemed to be exact opposites he’s happy go lucky & she’s so rigidly proper. Matthew is lovely, not a mean bone in his body, he has a wonderful sense of humour & loves baiting Purity as she rises to it every time. I loved their journey to a HEA & spent a delightful afternoon giggling at their story.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Sophie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.

Lady Purity Diamond is everything her name entails. She is the pure and rule abiding member of the family, and even the patronesses turn to her for etiquette. So when Lord Matthew Foxford realises that he needs to rectify his rakish reputation, and prove to family that he is on the straight and narrow, he begs Purity for help. After all, he insulted her by thinking she was a light skirt, and she set him right. But as Matthew spends more time with Purity, learning what makes her tick, and understanding her character, he soon realises that she is the one he wants - but can he convince her of that?

Well, Purity was definitely better than Clarity. I liked Purity and Matthew's story a lot more than the previous one, and actually cared about their relationship much more too. Matthew was a definite rake, but he owned it, and was honestly trying to change his ways, and be better for both himself and for Purity. Purity was a bit too annoying at first - she was so stuck in her ways, and not a likeable person, but Matthew brought out the best in her. All in all, an alright story, and has made me consider continuing the series.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Matthew Foxford kissed Lady Purity Diamond thinking she was a light skirt, but what a kiss. He wants more kisses and has visions of her in his bedroom. Purity follows correct behavior and Matthew sees a way to pursue her to be his wife, by asking her to correct his behavior. He loves to make her blush with his outrageous behavior and comments. His biggest obstacle is his past with widows, neglected wives, courtesans and constantly mentioned in the paper. He has a long way to win her. What a fun read that made me constantly laugh with his antics to break through her barriers. Can't wait to read the next book in the series. Heat level 5
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book gifted by the author.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my 15th book by Sydney Jane Baily. I have been reading her since 2019.

I thought book 1 was fantastic so was excited for this book.

I really liked this story a lot. I liked the storyline and characters. Purity, definitely held up to her name (at first) and loved Matthew’s playfulness.

I would definitely recommend this book, all her books and this series. 😊

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Purity’s manners and grace make her the most proper of ladies.

Read full review in the 2022 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.

This is the second book in the series and about Purity, the sister of Clarity, and who is characterized as much more reserved and strict about following the social norms and rules, no matter how strict. Quite the opposite to the fun-loving creature that Clarity seemed.

One night, she did break the rules and at a social gathering went into a room alone to view a piece of art, when she really should have had a chaperone. There, she was accosted by a man who thought she was a woman arranged to have a tryst with him. Their encounter is infuriating, but still intrigues Purity, despite the fact the man is definitely a wretched rake. The man is very definitely intrigued by Purity and her passionate spitfire response to him.

He finds out that who she is, and because of their attraction and passionate response to each other, has determined he wants to win her as his wife. He is Matthew, Lord Foxley, a notorious rake and womanizer with the moniker of "the Fox", well known for his liaisons, who just recently returned from the continent. When Purity finds out who he is, she is put off even more because of his licentious and lurid reputation, and it does not help that someone is regularly passing on exaggerated stories about him to the gossip rags.

He works out a plan to put himself in Purity's presence, including pretending to need her to school him in etiquette and social manners to help him seek a bride, to try to win her over, knowing that while she may try to repel him, Purity is still quite attracted to him, and he hopes to tear her walls down and wear her down to where she will wed him.]

But Matthew's reputation and Purity's distrust work against them and make it very hard for Purity to trust that Matthew will be a faithful husband, and she is very fearful of having her heart broken. He also has people in his past who actively work to undermine their relationship.

I think I enjoyed this story more than the first book, because I found Matthew to be a likeable character. Purity was quite uptight and I liked their opposites attract relationship, especially as Matthew could help her loosen up and it really seemed as though he was attracted to her and became sincere in his admiration and love of her. But her distrust did become too repetitive and her lack of communication with him became overbearing at times. It felt like he was working a steep uphill battle and could never win her trust, and she would rather listen to gossip than talk with the man she supposedly cares for.

Then again, this does make the HEA all that much more satisfactory when he did win her trust and love.

There is also further depth added about other characters too, such as the Diamond parents and how they relate to each other and their children that added to some fun and enjoyable elements to the story too.

One thing that detracted for me though was there was a heavy use of cant and slang from the period to the point where it was distracting. Perhaps Matthew and his friends used it to emphasize his need for Purity's help to smooth his rough edges, but it did feel a bit over the top at times.

3.75 stars out of 5

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when I take a chance on a new to me author and find an entertaining story. Lady Purity is the proper, rule following, second daughter in the Diamond family. She knows all of rules of society and tries to live each and every one. Lord Matthew Foxford (a baron) meets Purity accidentally and is quickly taken with her. He is a notorious rake and hasn’t given much thought to those in his past. He has decided it is time to marry. When Purity shows no interest in him he asks her to tutor him in the proper etiquette to help him find a bride.

I love the rules, and she knows so many. How long visits should last, who gets tea, when to ignore unseemly remarks etc. She is genuinely perplexed at her attraction to Foxford. I love how the author takes a traditional romance and changes the pacing and adds some twists. Engagement and wedding plans come midway through the book. A surprise that should cause an angst moment but doesn’t. Someone out to stop their romance. And understanding parents that Purity can talk to are rare in historical romance.

One thing the author does is add lots of expressions and words I was unfamiliar with. I could only find a definition for a couple so I’m not sure if they are real words of the time period that are not in online dictionaries or if Baily is making up expressions. I found it distracting although I usually could guess at the meanings given the context in the sentence.

Overall I really enjoyed this fun story. And although I knew most of the rules I still learned some new ones. It is the second in a series and it looks like I will need to purchase the first one or renew my Kindle Unlimited subscription to read it. Look forward to brother Adam’s story next. Thank you to NetGalley, WOLF Publishing and the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)

[BookishMya · Rating 4 out of 5]

A true delight, the Diamonds shine bright! I truly enjoyed seeing Purity set aside some of her fastidiousness and strict adherence to the rules. Though it was a struggle, she needed someone wild to help her reach that level of freedom. She was chained to the rules and views of others. Once she was able to relax and be herself (while still clinging to the rules, mostly), it freed her to truly enjoy her life. Wicked Lord Foxford in turn, having bucked the rules most of his life, needed Purity’s decorum to help him find the man he could be. Though seeming complete opposites in the beginning, you quickly see that at the core they are a match indeed. I especially liked that as they struggled through misconceptions and outside influence, all he needed was Clarity to help him back into Purity’s good grace. Purity and Foxford’s chemistry was electric. A truly beautiful story.

[Phylis Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purity and Matthew's to finding love

Puriry and Mathew
Purity is a straight-laced silk-stocking and he’s a scandalous fox. Lord Matthew Foxford doesn’t let propriety or tedious rules get in his way. Asking the prim Earl’s daughter to teach him etiquette, he hopes to win her heart while loosening her corset.
Unaware of his intent, Purity agrees to turn this thundering buck into a reputable nobleman. This story has many twists and turns with funny moments. I really enjoyed this story.

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The kitten and the Fox

When I read about Purity's personality in the first book in the series, I was sure she would be challenged to the fullest when it came to finding love.
Purity Diamond is ruled by the rules, but she breaks rules the first time she meets, Matthew, Baron Foxford.
He has a history of several love conquests, which would scare anyone.
Her name says it all, purity, but he simply decides that it's her he wants to be with.
Then begins a delicious game of cat and mouse where Matthew, also known as the Fox, will try to conquer a resistant, Purity, whom he calls kitten and we watches him slowly undermine her defenses as he struggles with the gossip and fallout from the scandals of his past.
Mathtew is slowly showing his personality, using his intelligence, also making mistakes and seducing Purity and what you see is pure passion.
Another gem for the collection.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mia Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sydney Jane Baily’s “Purity” (Diamonds of the First Water Book 2)

This is a delightful series and Purity’s story was equally charming. The chemistry between Purity and Matthew was so Mia ch fun. The banter and back and forth dialogue was just perfect. I loved the storyline and watching these two find their way to one another.

Ms. Baily has penned such a fun, lighthearted story with a bit of intrigue, wonderful characters, an interesting family and a perfect ending. I totally captivated throughout.

Thank you so much Ms.Baily for this simply delightful romance.

[Elizabeth Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from Wolf Publishing, and I was excited to read about Clarity's younger sister, Purity. I loved it! Truth be told, Purity seemed like the better match for Clarity’s eventual husband, but he needed someone fun and willing to break the rules and Purity needed someone like that as well—Baron Matthew Foxford, dubbed the Bachelor Baron at times, and at other times Foxy or the Fox. Needless to say, he is a rake who sets his sights on Purity, the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, and determines she will be his bride. Of course, being exceedingly proper, she wants nothing to do with him. Similarly to the storyline in Clarity, Matthew begs Purity to teach him to be proper, and the more time she spends around him, the more she comes to see the man underneath the persona.

What I noticed immediately about this book was the author’s frequent use of archaic terms that were popular at the time. Although I could figure out words based on context, I nevertheless found myself looking up words and phrases simply because I wanted to know more information. There were things like: “beard-splitter,” gimcrack ewes, tipping the velvet, royster, nip-cheese, tweague, rantum-scantum, spoony loggerhead, grinagog, fustilugs, lewd bobtail, game pullet, green gown in a dark garden, looby, lobcock, danced the blanket hornpipe, having a proper smack, pully hawly, “a muff is a tuzzy-muzzy is a quim all the same,” flourish in the bushes, whore’s bird, primsy-pate, thundering buck, “landing a nosegay or even a full floorer,” feather bed jig, buttered bun, wapped, “cove of a man,” toss off, “long-tongued, chaff-cutter of a mouth,” given him the mitten, tweague, swabbers, “half seas over,” “living under the cat’s foot,” sway a-plenty, betwattled, aigrette, rantipole, buck dangler, rum husband, bandbox, Carvel’s ring.

At one point, I wondered where Bailey found a dictionary of these terms and why she was using so many of them, almost to the point of showing off. But I was so amused by them, I really didn’t mind. It encouraged me to learn a few new phrases and do some additional research of my own. I wonder, did she use the 1811 Dictionary in the Vulgar Tongue, by Francis Grose? Even if she did, there were many phrases not included. For example, there was this complete sentence, “He was drunk as David’s sow, sucking the monkey for a fortnight straight before he sobered up.” Although it was easy enough to figure this out, I still wanted to look up the various elements of the sentence to understand the origins.

I loved Matthew, the polar opposite of stuffy and proper Purity (who turned out not to be, after all). He was surprisingly pure for someone so impure. With a nickname like Fox, it’s no shock he was frequently featured in the gossip section of the newspaper. Still, he managed to bounce through life happily as if every day were a new adventure, and he didn’t seem to have a mean bone in his body. He genuinely never intended to hurt anyone. Meanwhile, Purity was, in a word, pure. She did everything properly and would never end up in the gossip pages. Until she did.

The two of them are a perfect balance, with him encouraging her to push the boundaries while she strives to teach him the importance of societal limitations. Early on, she admonishes him that he must not be flippant. “‘Flippant?’ Matthew asked. He might have to remain silent for his normal everyday parlance was ripe with flippancy.” And that’s what made him so much fun.

Matthew is a fan of the double entendre, but he cannot get a rise out of Purity. She explains to him, “When presented with a double entendre, a lady has two choices. She can remain silent because she has not heard you, even if she has, or she may say ‘I do not understand you.’” Her voice rose. “And then she can only pray you shut your vulgar potato trap!” This was funny, but I found it much more amusing when, during a different conversation, she simply said, “Cease your nonsense.”

Matthew is not one to be easily discouraged. When he suggests they go for a walk in the garden, Purity responds sarcastically that she’s sure her mother won’t mind them wandering around in the dark. He questions whether the book of etiquette she is so fond of quoting offers some kind of warning about sarcasm. “Probably,” she said. “Accordingly, if you can behave, I will curb my tongue. He responds, “Without access to your tongue, I suppose I shall have to behave.” By the time they are married, Purity is no longer shocked by his comments. She worries about her hairpins allowing one of them to be pricked, and that she will be to blame. He replies, “I assure you, lady wife, you shall be pricked, but the blame will be mine.” This time she laughs, finally acknowledging she understands.

Matthew teases Purity mercilessly, nicknaming her “Kitten” the first time he meets her, which she repeatedly asks him not to do. But it’s all in good fun. During a dance, he calls her Purity and she is aghast because he uses her “given name. He grinned at her. ‘It slipped out. Do you prefer kitten after all?’” The conversation continues until she accuses him of going too far, saying, “Now I know you are testing me with your impudence.” And he says, “Or is it imprudence?” It is with great difficulty that she remains serious.

Because every romance must contain an element of uncertainty, often through some kind of misunderstanding between the main characters, Matthew goes to his club to get drunk and is found there by his friend Quinn. “‘Another,” he (Matthew) called out to the waiter. ‘You're speaking to a floor lamp,’ Quinn said. ‘Blast!’ He looked again. No wonder the chap hadn’t moved the last two times he’d demanded liquor. ‘I don’t think the lamp knows where the best brandy is stored.’”


There is not really any subterfuge with Matthew. What you see is what you get, and I think that’s what makes him so lovable. He doesn’t hide what he wants and he asks for it, which is probably why he has had so many conquests prior to meeting Purity. Even in his interactions with her, he pretends to need her help with etiquette, but he quickly admits it’s because he wants her to be his wife and that was the best way he could think of to be near her. Lucky Purity.

[Winnifred D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars. This is the second book in the Diamonds of the First Water series, and the writing is solid. There is also a good amount of humor, as usual for the author, and some fun spiciness toward the end.

However, I didn't enjoy this book quite as much as Clarity's. I thought Matthew was endearing, and I appreciated that he acknowledged his rakish ways as the book went on. Purity didn't have as much of a character arc. There were times when she seemed relatable, but mostly she lived almost in paranoia of Society's opinion. When she was tormented by her own perfectionism, it made her sympathetic. However, when she took out her fears on Matthew, I started losing patience (repeatedly slapping him was excessive and not as funny as I think it was meant to be). She makes situations worse with her rigidity and tendency toward drama--even though, of course, she doesn't think of herself as a drama queen and blames Matthew for the negative press they get. It takes her forever to trust him, and she repeatedly brings up the past. I wanted something to happen to force her to take a look at her compulsive nature and give her some perspective. I liked her speech at the end to Matthew's former lover, and the epilogue was sweet. But I was hoping for more self-reflection on her part.

The secondary characters overall are fine. Lord and Lady Diamond are refreshingly good parents (unlike a lot of the evil Regency moms and dads out there) and Clarity makes an appearance in this book in the role of the supportive older sister.

However, there was a lack of character development for Diana, Matthew's daughter. She's introduced early on as a lovely little girl, and Matthew seems to have a good relationship with her, but then she disappears. He spends so little time with her or even thinking about her for most of the book, she seems to just be the stock child bringing the two MC's together. I was really disappointed that Matthew didn't bring her up sooner to Purity--in fact, I think that was the only thing he really did wrong during his engagement. A man not disclosing that he has a child when he's headed to the altar is a HUGE red flag for most women.

Overall: I enjoyed this book just enough to bump it up to 4 stars. The first half, especially, is a fun, humorous romp. I just wish that Purity's tendency toward drama had been toned down and she and Diana would have developed more of a relationship before the MC's marriage.

Steam level: 2 1/2-3. The love scenes are tastefully written.

I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Booksprout for this opportunity.

[Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purity Diamond is probably the most proper heroine I've ever read. She never steps outside the box of propriety or breaks any rules of society. She is prim and proper at all times and expects the same from those around her...until she meets Matthew Norland, the Earl of Foxford.

Foxford is a rake and the topic of the gossip columns constantly. When he and Purity first meet, he mistakes her for someone else and kisses her. She is stunned and shaken and darts from the room, of course, but after that, neither could forget the other. She knows and doesn't appreciate that he's a rake. She reads the columns, after all. He decides he wants her to help him become the very best a man can be in order to find a suitable wife. He wants to be the embodiment of decorum...or does he?

Foxford was hilarious. He goaded her and poked at her (figuratively) and did everything a true gentleman would never do in front of a lady, with the exception of belching and farting and even though those aren't mentioned, he probably did those, too. He made her crazy with the way he broke the rules and there were more than a few times when he made me laugh out loud.

Purity was beside herself with this guy. He had no social graces, asked her the wrong questions, said the wrong things, was always referring to their clandestine kiss and making it known he wanted more. He was not suitable for any lady in any way. He was crass, uncouth, and uncaring and oh so frustrating. He would never live up to the standards of society no matter how much work and time she put into him. But in the end, did it really matter?

This book popped for me. It made me laugh, which is a definite plus. It had some sweet moments, some mild steam, and great characters. I loved the story and how it all came together. The one thing I wished for was more interaction between Foxford and Diana. I also wondered how he kept her a secret from the ton. I thought he was wrong for not being straightforward with Purity about Diana, but if he had been, it would've changed the direction of the story. Everything was where it was supposed to be.

Solid five stars.

*Although this is part of a series, it can be read independently

[Romancing the Duchess - Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

THE REVIEW
Lady Purity Diamond is a Diamond of the First Water. She is a proper, rule following young woman, who does not allow any improprieties occur in her world. She is determined to find a proper, decent man to be her husband.

Lord Matthew Foxford is a rake and a libertine. But he is determined this season to find a wife and a mother for his daughter.

When Foxford stumbled upon Purity alone at a ball, he mistakes her for his liaison and the passionate kiss they share sparks something neither expected! Purity is mortified, whereas Foxford is determined to have her. In order to spend more time with her and attempt to win her over, he decides to ask her to teach him how to behave properly so he can attract a wife. But, of course, the time spent together softens Purity towards him and his past and Foxford finds himself no longer simply lusting after her, but wanting her for his Baroness!

When they are caught in a compromising position, Fox offers for her and they become engaged. But, even now that he has won her hand, the real trouble begins.
The beginning of the story was interesting bit a little slow to get going. And just when it started to pick up and get interesting when they got engaged, Purity’s jealousy and doubts about Fox dampened the romance for me. It was like a douse of cold water on any heat that was starting to stir. Overall, it was an enjoyable ready, but I was ready to be done and move on to a more attention-grabbing read!

TROPES
Historical Romance, Victorian Era, Ton Society, Gamma Hero, Rake Hero, Single Dad Hero, Titled Hero, Musician Heroine, Proper Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Outdoor Steam, Married in Scandal, Hero Falls Hard, Opposites Attract, Three Star, Two Steam

[B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was actually a very cute story between Purity and Matthew. I really loved reading it after watching Bridgerton Season 2 as it gives similar vibes.

I loved the enemies-to-lovers trope and the concept that Purity must help Matthew fit into society and the hilarity that ensues as a result. The secret kisses in private rooms and the many slaps Purity lays on Matthew.

I wish the story of Diana and her appearance in Matthew's life was discussed earlier in the book as there is a scene where Purity asks Matthew if he has any other secrets to share and he does not tell Purity of Diana, his daughter. It felt unrealistic that Purity would be so willing and understanding to accept his child when she has refused to believe him throughout the rest of the book.

The ending of the book felt very slow and almost filler to complete the book however I am now excited to read Adam's story in the next installment of the series.

I still will not get over the names of the girls: Purity, Clarity, Radiance and Brilliance and so happy two had nicknames otherwise I would not have contained myself while reading the bizarre names.

This is definitely a recommended read if you are interested in period books as there is sufficient details of love, plot, humour and smut for readers to enjoy.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good story full of maddening moments. Due to a case of mistaken identity, Matthew kissed Purity when she was alone examining a host’s new painting. One kiss was all it took for him to set his sights on her. However, the fact that Matthew was a reknown rake and Purity was a stickler for propriety made things a bit challenging, but Matthew cleverly convinced Purity to assist him with finding a wife so that he could spend time with her. What follows is their emotional journey filled with ups and downs and advances and setbacks. Meanwhile a rejected lover and jilted gentleman were determined to cause trouble….and they did! This story runs the gamut from light and humorous to fury and despair. It is filled with tantalizing teases, deceptions, secrets, surprises and steam. So much is packed into these pages, and just when you think everything will work out, something else happens. There is just something so likable and charming about Matthew, as he strives to be a better man and be worthy of Purity. Quick to judge and quick to scold, she tended to drive me crazy with her fear and lack of trust. But she had a good heart, Matthew adored her, and she brought out the best in him. This really is well done, and a wonderful complement to the previous book in the series!

[Rosie Trzewik · Rating 4 out of 5]

A chance meeting, getting a little bit to friendly and finding out….oops wrong lady! Lord Matthew Foxford had just gotten a slap! Lady Purity Diamond is not amused. How dare he! His moniker Lord Fox fits, but he does know how to kiss a woman. Matthew, alias the Bachelor Baron or Lord Fox loves women and has the reputation to back it up. Although he thought to meet someone else, he couldn’t quite forget Purity. Her name fits her, totally a silk stocking, follows all the Ton rules, never a thing out of place. But they do say opposite attract.
Love the character of Matthew, well portrayed as they say…. a young rake. Although I do wonder sometimes why he didn’t give up on Purity. He also has a 4 year old daughter, I wished she had been more involved in the story. Wasn’t much on her and she was precious, Purity is the 2nd of the Diamond siblings and the proper one. She has many doubts and insecurities about trusting a rake, which one can understand. I did find it a fun read, learned a few new rake terms I never heard. Thank you NetGalley for this eARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #Purity #Wolfpublishing

[Emily Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Purity and Matthew . . .

Geoffrey, Lord Diamond, and his wife, Caroline, have five children: Clarity, Purity, Adam, Radiance, and Brilliance, thought of by their parents as Diamonds of the First Water. This is Book 2, Purity’s story.

Lady Purity is the “proper” Diamond sister who loves following the rules of society, unaware she comes off as rigid and a drama queen at times. But in her world, everything is perfect when rules are upheld. Her opposite would be the rakish Lord Matthew Foxford who doesn’t particularly care about propriety and rules that get in the way of his own desires. But now he will learn about proper etiquette, hoping to perhaps seduce his instructor along the way

Purity agrees help Matthew become more reputable by learning proper manners. Will she stay mindful of what will happen if she allows him to lure her into scandalous behavior?

This book, although well-written, was not as enjoyable as Book 1. I think it had to do with Purity’s stodgy attitude. She seemed to think her striving for perfection pleasing to society was an enviable virtue of some sort. To me, she was a snob and very unaware of herself and her own shortcomings.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second installment and a delightful addition to the Diamonds of the First Water series. Purity is a stickler for rules and is known as the proper sister. She lives by the rules and manners of society. Matthew is quite the opposite and is a well-known rake. When he meets Purity, he is immediately smitten, but with his reputation, she has no interest in him. He wants to make Purity his wife, so he proposes an offer she can't refuse. He asks her to train him in proper etiquette in order to help him find a bride. She accepts and he has a long way to go before he can win her heart, and he has a lot fun in the process making her blush with his scandalous behavior and comments. I enjoyed his character and his antics in trying to break through her walls really made me laugh. The story pulled me in right from the start and immediately captivated me. A fun-filled delightful romance that I absolutely enjoyed and is sure to put a smile on your face. I wholeheartedly recommend!
Thank you to Wolf Publishing and Ms. Baily for providing a complimentary copy. This is my voluntary and honest review.

[zasou.reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this early Victorian Romance, the second in the series Diamonds of the First Water, a proper young lady, Purity, tries to civilize the unseemly bachelor baron, Matthew. Can she do it without shattering her own impeccable reputation? I can't say that I loved it, but it was enjoyable. Most of the characters were relatable and the dynamics between them was fun. The chemistry between Purity and Matthew was great, and there is some interesting spice. However Purity's quest for perfection was sometimes annoying and her lack of flexibility made her a little less relatable to me. I would have loved to see Diana (Matthew!s four year old daughter) a little more - she's not there a lot and he doesn't think about her a lot, and I think he should. Also, I was not a fan of the fact that he did hide Emily's existence to Purity until very late on into their engagement. Overall, it was enjoyable. I did not read the first one in the series (Clarity), and I was not completely lost, because each book in the series is focused on one of the Diamond brother or sister.
I received this book an exchange from my honest opinion from NetGalley and WOLF Publishing.

[Reg Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

We met Lady Purity Diamond the second daughter of the Earl of Diamond in the first of this delightful series. Here she is just as prim and correct in her etiquette so that she is ever more flummoxed when mistaken for a lightskirt while innocently viewing a painting albeit a bit far off from the main room of the party. The handsome gentleman is none other than 'The Fox" Baron Lord Matthew Foxford a rake of the first order. There is yet a chemical attraction and the start of a long slow burning courtship of this lord who will reform his ways in his suit of the beautiful curvy intelligent and startlingly blue-eyed Purity. The delight is in the wonderful telling and writing of this romance. Rejected multiple times Lord Foxford does not give up. The fact that he has taken in as his own a four year old precious little girl the daughter of a prostitute and not his is all the more to his benefit. I was transfixed in this early Victorian time until the final page. Received this arc and have voluntarily reviewed. Very much looking forward to the next.

[JenReviews4U · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. While I didn't read the first of the series, Clarity, enough information was given in this one that I did not feel at a loss. The backstory on the family is nice to have in the beginning and is very unique.
Lady Purity is the proper Diamond sister, everything in its order so when Lord Matthew Foxford shows an interest in her, he is going to throw her perfect world upside down.
I didn't get too attached to Purity, I thought she was a little too proper and it gave her an untouchable quality, almost snobbish. I couldn't see Matthew staying with her very long. I did enjoy Matthew's character and charm and it was nice to see him develop. There was a lot of back and forth, ups and downs in this but the way the author has cleverly written it sucks you into the drama and it doesn't get tedious. It moves at a great pace and is filled with surprises. The banter between the main characters is great.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for brother Adam's contribution.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It has two of my absolute favorite things going for it: dual POV and a reformed rake! Not to mention I adore Purity’s character to no end. All of the characters were well written, but she took the win home for me. I loved her mix of propriety and sass. She definitely gave Matthew a run for his money and I was drawn into every second of it. Don’t let that cast any shadows on Matthew. I could have swooned once he decided she might be it for him and made his play for her. Sorry for this minute spoiler: pretending to need coaching on proper society etiquette to get closer to her? I laughed and waited patiently to see when if and when Purity would catch on.

This book showcased that there are two sides to every story and that ones past should not dictate who they are today. Purity and Matthew definitely have some bumps in the road, so will they be able to work through them? Or will those bumps prove to be too big of an issue to traverse together?.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Purity and Matthew's story theirs was not really an auspicious first meeting in front of a fireside viewing a painting just ripe for an assignation so Matthew thought when he first met Purity in a darkened room where they first kissed. This sets into motion a comedy of sorts filled with errors, misjudgements and prejudice about Matthew's not so white as white reputation. Matthew is a die hard Rake which has left many a woman satisfied or broken-hearted, but now he is single unmarried father of a precocious little girl who is the light of his life who deserves a mother who will love her as if she was his own.  Matthew and Purity are attracted to each other even though they are opposites expect for where it matters.

How will Matthew win Purity over, how will Purity take to being a possible wife and mother? Will they find out the source of the salacious gossip that is following Matthews every move in the Times.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Purity is the ideal debutante - she is virtuous, knows what to say & when to say it, how to dress, how to do everything that society insists is necessary - she is perfect, until she agrees to help the rogue. Foxford with his behavioral problems.

Lord Matthew Foxford has done some wild things in his past; he has the earned reputation as a rake, but he really doesn't give a hoot about society rules. However, he finds he is attracted to an earl's daughter, Lady Purity, & he has convinced her to help him comport himself correctly in society.

I loved the fun conflict Matthew & Purity had together & she had no idea he was trying to pull the wool over her eyes until it was too late for both. Will Foxford manage to loosen her up & relax & have some fun? Their romance was a good time & throw in a little intrigue, well, it makes for a very good read! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Purity Diamond is the second sister in the family. Now that her elder sister is successfully married, she is looking for her love. She is a serious, rule following, virtuous lady. She meets Lord Matthew Foxford at a ball where she strayed into the library to see the new painting. Matthew is not a rule follower. He has a past! Ms. Baily has created a wonderful new series with interesting characters, a twisty plot, and large helping of romance. We see the characters of the 1st book again Clarity and her new husband!

This is a fun read as Matthew is looking for a wife and decides on Purity. Unfortunately for him she in not interested in a rake! But he is determined to win her. There is a lot of witty dialogue and situations that add to the courtship! Or try to destroy the couple's happiness. I really enjoyed this story and rooted for Matthew to win the lady! I am looking forward to the next installments in the Diamond series

I highly recommend this book!