Teach a Rogue New Tricks

The Cavendish Family #2

by Charlie Lane

A villainous rogue. A bluestocking in search of adventure. A partnership destined to end in exile or love.

Ada Cavendish has spent the last five years in the country taking care of her siblings. She can mend a ripped stocking, tend a scrapped knee, and deliver a scathing lecture after any misbehavior.

But she’s ready for a change. What better time than her first London Season? She’ll run a little wild and have a little fun before returning to her quiet domestic existence.

Cassius Albee is a future Earl of Brookmere. But he’s also a villain. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law. Now he’s returned determined to reform his roguish ways.

He’s developed a plan for self-improvement. But he’s missing the one thing everyone knows a rake must have in order to reform—a good woman.

And when the smart and bold Miss Cavendish delivers a perfect lecture on the depravity of eavesdropping, he knows he’s found the one.

Ada agrees to teach Cass the basics of good behavior if he’ll help her break a few rules. But can a rake really learn new tricks, or will their perfect plan end in utter ruin?

The second novel in Charlie Lane’s new Cavendish Family series will keep you laughing and swooning all the way to a happily ever after.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Regency, Fiction, Regency Romance, Adult

276 pages, Paperback

First published May 31, 2022

About the author

Charlie writes Regency romance that's lighthearted and hot. Her books have a little bit of angst, a lot of laughs, and a whole lot of heart and heat.

Reviews

[Debby *BabyDee* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Empowered Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Charlie Lane is a new author to this reader and “Teach a Rogue New Tricks” (Cavendish Family Series #2) was a story filled with love and romance. Cass, cast as a villain and Ada, a bluestocking seeking adventure after spending five years of her life taking care of her siblings. Awaiting her first London Season, she meats the Ear of Brookmere peering out of a window and is determined to uncover the man. A chance meeting intertwines two people into a slow building romance that leads to love.

This was an endearing story where Cass is needing redemption and Ada, her freedom. The plot was well paced and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. The main characters are very likeable individuals…a rogue being reformed and a woman with dreams of adventure. There were witty moments, humor, and just the right amount of intimate steam that I enjoy in my historical romance readings. A well-written story by Ms. Lane and I look forward to reading more from her and this series. Recommend the read.

[Jocelynereadsromance · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a delightful and charming read that is low on angst this is a lovely option for you. This fast paced, rake in search of reformation and heroine in search of adventure story is full of fun, heart and a wonderful cast of characters. Charlie Lane's writing is accessible, lively and amusing. This is my first novel by Charlie Lane and it will definitely not be my last, I am so glad I finally had the opportunity to pick up her work and I am so looking forward to continuing to explore her backlist.

Cassius is a villainous rogue, whose past mistakes still haunt him. After an attempted abduction of his sister-in-law, Cass was exiled to France and now he is back ready to make amends and stitch back together his relationship with his family. When he meets Ada, a bluestocking in search of adventure, they both find the perfect person to help them each in their desires.

I absolutely love that Cass and Ada enter into a relationship that can be mutually beneficial to them both. I also was tickled pink with their first meeting, Ada sees him from afar and is so intrigued by him that she kinda seeks him out. I love that Ada is bold and smart and that she has some experience when it comes to the relations between men and women. I love that Cass pushes her to open up to him and they both delight in correspondence with each other as they being to map out their relationship. I think that Charlie Lane does a really lovely job of showing how these to learn for the other and understand each other. I love that Cass sees Ada for who she is deep down and he does not want to change her or alter her dreams, he wants to support her and be there with her every step of the way. This novel also has great support from the secondary characters and Ada's father is also always on her side, and that is really refreshing to see. This novel is sweetly sensual and the chemistry between Ada and Cass is dreamy.

This was just an absolute delight, I love the Cavendish Family and I can not wait to get more of their stories. I very much recommend this novel and now I am beyond thrilled to continue exploring Charlie Lane's backlist.

Thank you so much to Charlie Lane for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Team Cassius (AKA Bax who?)

There is something about a villain that is just too amazing. Cass is the villain in a previous book (Sinning in Secret).

A story about two people who fail to meet their own expectations - a taker and a giver.

The beginning half took my breath away. Lane does an excellent job making Cass into a sympathetic character. She doesn't try to excuse his past misdeeds nor does she gloss over them. She has Cass and Ada both really face the reality of his crimes.

I enjoyed how Ada came into her own and how Cass did not want to deny her. Lane offered enough foreshadowing and executed the ending in such a manner that the reader doesn't walk away thinking the hero had to sacrifice everything he wanted and desired on the altar of the heroine's dreams and goals. The relationship ended wonderfully balanced - though I must admit I did get worried about this about 70% of the way in.

On its own, the book is a solid 4 star read but I'm giving it 5 because A VILLAIN TURNED HERO!!!!!!! Too many authors use the irredeemable villain to drive their plots and I think the romance is somewhat lost in most of these books. So read after the book where Cass stars as the villain, it definitely earned all the stars!

[Rainelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teach a Rogue New Tricks, by Charlie Lane. I genuinely loved reading this wonderfully and delightful romantic love story. I found Ada and Cass’s characters to be quite charming. These two interactions made the book all the more exciting for me to read. I thought the humorous or comedic dialogue was marvelous.
It was almost like the other could anticipate what the other would say. As I read the book further I new that their relationship would be one of a lot of interest. The writer did a wonderful job of really capturing the characters feelings when it came to the characters admitting to their fears and working to be a better person. The romance between Ada and Cass was very beautiful. I found their chemistry to be very charming and sentimental.
I would ask that the writer would elaborate more and give more details to the love scenes. Maybe add in a little more dirty talk during those moments. I think that would raise the steam level a little higher. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a little torn on how much I liked this book. Cassius Adgate, Viscount Albee, has been a rogue and a cad. He tried to kidnap his brother's betrothed and fled England. A year later, he wants to reform. He has given up drinking, gambling and women. What he needs is a woman to teach him how to be good. Ada Cavendish has always been responsible. When her father deserted the family, she took over raising her siblings. She is willing to help Cass reform, but not give up her dream of adventure. A friendship grows between them and they become lovers. Ada thinks she is not ready for love, but Cass is determined to give Ada what she wants. I had a hard time keeping my focus on the book. It never had a continuous pace, but I was engaged enough to finish. I have not read the first one, but I am interested enough to read it.
Heat level 4.🔥🔥🔥🔥
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley for sending me Teach a Rogue New Tricks to read! This is the first ARC book I’ve received. This in no way affects my opinion of the book. I try to write honest opinions.

This is actually the first book I’ve read by Charlie Lane. I bought the first book in this series, but I haven’t read it yet. I’ll definitely be reading it now. 😊

I devoured this book! I read it in one day because I was so excited.


Taken from the synopsis of the book, Cassius Albee deems himself a villain. He abducted his brother’s fiancé, gets into trouble and is then exiled to France. He returns to England to change his ways. I superficially love the name Cassius/Cass, so I knew I would love his character from the start. And I did!

Ada Cavendish is 26 years old. I really enjoy older heroines when the book is set in regency England. She largely takes care of her siblings and her family. She’s used to helping others above herself.

It’s a classic story to have the heroine help reform the rakish rogue, but I thought this was done so well. I think the chemistry between Cass and Ada was palpable. They just seemed to melt together from the start. Yes, Cass did some bad things, but I didn’t think of him as a bad person. He genuinely wanted to change and I love that about characters.

I think romance was fast paced and I prefer that to slow burns. I love books with good dialogue. It felt like Cass and Ada were getting to know one another. These characters were fleshed out and fun. They had real personalities. I also loved the conversations they had about books, haha. I don’t want to give away too much to spoil the book.

If I have to give a constructive criticism, part of the dialogue did seem a little modern at times. Ada did seem to have some modern views, but I don’t care. I still loved she was a strong heroine. The side characters also didn’t seem to be as prominent in the book, but I don’t have any major downsides.

I will definitely be checking out more books by Charlie Lane! I truly loved reading it. It had all the feels. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fun historical romance with a morally gray bad boy and a bookish heroine.

Thank you!

[Sarah Boude · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well. If this isn't a surprise!

First of all, I am writing this review with the biggest smile on my face. I read this in almost one sitting ; that's how good it was.
In my post Bridgerton s2 slumber, I was in desperate need of a good historical romance to read and BOY did this one deliver. The writing is witty and fun, the dialogues engaging and the characters? So enjoyable.
I wasn't expecting this story to unfold the way it did : we start off with a "villain", a questionable man with bad manners who deceived his family with his roguish ways and he meets Ada, our heroine. She is strong-minded, opinionated, and not afraid to tell him to shut the hell up. What happens next?
Of course, the usual thing happens. They fall in love. And you root for them because they're so sweet, so believable, so loveable! Is he really a villain, or is he just a cinnamon roll in disguise? You'll have to read to find out.
I didn't expect such a feminist undertone too - you can really sense the female gaze working its wonders. Ada knows what she wants and Cass will do anything he can to get her everything she desires. And that, ladies and gentletheys, is exactly what we want.

Highly recommend! I'll read more from this series for sure.
(Though not the first one because I can't fathom a book where Cassius would actually be a villain lol)


Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome book!
Filled with passion and romance this book which is the epitome of love.
A villainous rogue. A bluestocking in search of adventure. A partnership destined to end in exile or love.
Ada Cavendish has spent the last five years in the country taking care of her siblings. She can mend a ripped stocking, tend a scrapped knee, and deliver a scathing lecture after any misbehavior.
But she’s ready for a change. What better time than her first London Season? She’ll run a little wild and have a little fun before returning to her quiet domestic existence.
Cassius Albee is a future Earl of Brookmere. But he’s also a villain. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law. Now he’s returned determined to reform his roguish ways.
He’s developed a plan for self-improvement. But he’s missing the one thing everyone knows a rake must have in order to reform—a good woman.
And when the smart and bold Miss Cavendish delivers a perfect lecture on the depravity of eavesdropping, he knows he’s found the one.
Ada agrees to teach Cass the basics of good behavior if he’ll help her break a few rules. But can a rake really learn new tricks, or will their perfect plan end in utter ruin?
The second novel in Charlie Lane’s new Cavendish Family series will keep you laughing and swooning all the way to a happily ever
Charlie Lane writes a stupendous book which is the epitome of love.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[travelbug74 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author. I very much liked the witty way she wrote the letters that Cass and Ada exchanged. I thought Cass wasn't such the evil person everyone made him out to be. I liked that he really put thought into the kind of person he wanted to be. Ada gave up years of her life when her father left the family to pursue his own adventures. Now she wants to go off and see the world but feels trapped into a marriage with a man she does not love. I thought Cass very unselfish for wanting Ada to have her happiness even if it was without him.

I received and eARC from NetGalley in exchange for my review.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it!!!

A rogue seeking redemption and finding it through this bold person - beautifully written- wow....

Loved Cass and Ava and the secondary characters were awesome too... looking forward to more books in this series..

Note #1- this is book 2 in the series- though I hadn't read the first one, this was easy to follow. Am off to reading the prev book in the series 😀

#2 - received an ARC in exchange of honest review.

[Elizabeth Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may well be my favorite book yet from Charlie Lane, which is odd because I found it a bit slow-moving and disorienting when it began. By the end, the word that kept coming to mind was lush. The writing seemed almost experimental, as if the author were testing out a more visceral way of describing characters/scenes/feelings, but the more I read, the more I realized just how masterful it was. If this were my first book from Charlie Lane, and if I weren’t already hooked on her writing, this one would do it for me.

I have only a few suggestions for improvement, although sadly, I’m not really sure how I would fix them. At the beginning of the story, Cass (the rogue) is described in such a way that I envisioned him as a young man uncertain of himself and gangly in his movements. I understand the reason: Ada needed to see him that way and the reader saw him as she did. Unfortunately, while she came to see him as a man, there was still a bit of the little boy in him that I couldn’t erase from my imagination and it was reflected in some of his physical movements and facial expressions. (As an aside, I found it fascinating to realize that Ada had the mind of a codebreaker.)

My second suggestion? I remember encountering this in one of her other books, The Secret Seduction, and it was my complaint about that one too. I realize these are fictional stories, but when I start reading, I immerse myself in the lives of the characters. When they do things in places where they shouldn’t, it makes me nervous. Can we please not have characters kissing or feeling one another up in public? This time, “In the middle of Berkeley Square. Where anyone could see.” (Coincidentally, The Secret Seduction introduced me to Lord Trevor, hero of the book and son of Lady Hemsworth, author of “Lady’s Guide to Moral Rectitude,” a book that Cass and Ada purchase in a bookstore.)

My third suggestion is this. This book could have benefited from more thorough editing. I found some of the missing words and word repetitions distracting. Obviously, none of my complaints warrant the removal of stars from my rating.

This is not an action-packed story. It’s very introspective and thought-provoking, and although there are, naturally, activities involved, much of the story is conveyed through the feelings of the characters. And the hero’s journey is not limited to only one character, even though the reader is led to believe that at the beginning. Cass needs to learn to forgive himself and Ada needs to learn to value herself. As Ada tries to help Cass to reform, which is what he believes he needs, he realizes that she needs someone to accept her without judgment and teach her to value herself. Who better to offer no judgment than someone who can’t forgive himself? Family ties are also a strong theme running through the plot, and the love shown by family members for one another is truly remarkable.

But let me get back to the word lush and try to explain my use of it. I think it was the way Ms. Lane used imagery and metaphors to describe feelings. For example, one of Cass’ reactions to emotional discomfort is to laugh. “He laughed, but a dark edge pulsed just under his skin, like he wore a suit of knives inside his body and any wrong move would flay him from the inside out.”

Cass is very denigrating about himself. He is drawn to Ada, while also trying to protect her from himself. When he looks at her, he sees “spring-green eyes containing oceans of emotions he lacked the intelligence to understand… He swallowed the desire to understand them.”

At one point, Ada has a fight with her sister, Nora, who does not want her to have anything to do with Cass. Nora has just finished cleaning her pistol and follows Ada up to her room where they have words and Nora laughs derisively at something Ada says, “the tin sound echoing like bullets off the close walls, shattering the looking glass, the windows.” After Nora slammed the door shut behind her, Ada’s “chest ached, the fight with Nora like an unremoved knife in her heart.”

There is one particular scene, in chapter 13 (also the scene of the PDA mentioned earlier) that particularly impressed me with its descriptions and the author’s ability to carry the metaphor over multiple pages without it growing old, but rather, transforming it. In fact, I’m going to elaborate for a few paragraphs because I was so enamored with it.

Ada can be very demonstrative, coming from a large family with many younger siblings. She frequently touches him without considering the physical reaction he might have. At one point, “He shrugged away from her touch and scooted his ass across the wet grass, planting distance between them he hoped to grow into an impenetrable forest.” Then, he proceeds to watch Ada eating an ice from Gunter’s and can’t take his eyes off of her as her “dimple appeared and disappeared, a flickering star guiding a lost man home.” And he feels something soft and mossy forming within himself. “He’d taken the forest metaphor too far, but he felt a green boy…new to the emotions rocking him…”

As Ada begins to sense a closeness growing between them she informs him she has a suitor, and he feels like a “tree must have fallen directly onto his head. He felt dazed, defeated. Might as well be dead.” When she continues blithely along, telling him they’re not in love and that there’s no need for love in her marriage, his response is immediate. “...that killed him more than the falling tree had. A hundred bees stung him in a hundred different places. Those thorns from his caution-grown forest snagged him, tightened, pierced. Impossible pain. Suffocation.”

He begins to lose control and before long, he’s kissing her. “He had tried to grow a forest, dark and deep and tangled, but one touch, one breath, and the world became a garden instead—fragrant, open, softening the sky with a rainbow’s splash of gentle color. He sank into it more deeply…” She pushes him away. “And the garden flickered out of existence. The moss inside browned, crisped, crumbled. His arms dropped to his side, dead logs with little purpose but to be burned.” But it’s only temporary and she soon resumes what he started. “He could not name or describe the relief crashing through him, crunching his forest trees like twigs, crumbling to dust all his defenses.” A couple of chapters later, when Ada asks him what color he would most like in his room… “‘Green,’ he said, but he really meant you.” (Annnd, scene.)

Ada has a bit of a strained relationship with her father so she’s surprised when he tells her he’s happy she broke things off with her suitor. He tells her, “He’s too closed-in for you, Ada. You need wide skies and possibilities. And he prefers ceilings and routine.” I love this!

He continues to give her a bit of advice about hearts and I found his counsel the kind of thing I’d like to offer my own child. “It doesn’t break as easily as you think. It’s a flexible thing. And as you learn to love a million new places, you’ll find you can leave your heart everywhere all at once and keep it in your chest, too.”

In case I was unclear, I absolutely loved this book. It feels different, and for that reason, it may not be accessible to as many people, but for those who enjoy something a bit unusual, you won’t want to miss this one.

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Viscount Cassius Albee is a villain, or rather, WAS a villain, exiled to France for his wicked ways by his family. Now he’s back and seeks redemption. But he can’t manage alone, this is quite clear. So when daring and beautiful Ada Cavendish enters his life showing her ability to manage naughty children and roguish men, he’s sure he’s found the perfect teacher of good behavior. But is she really what he needs? Because in reality Ada craves freedom and adventure, at least until she’s forced to return to her quiet country life and his future fiancé…
With each new book I read, my adoration for Charlie Lane’s writing increases. It’s a kind of writing that I feel deep in my heart, it’s like I’m in tune with it… She creates well-rounded characters and captivating plots and books that I can’t seem to put down once started! So I loved this book, obviously. The hero is just wonderful. He’s suffering, truly, really suffering for what he’s done in the past, poor man. Reformed rogue always make the best characters, in my opinion! But this is not an angsty book, at all. Or rather, it’s a perfect combination of angst and humor, an intriguing mix indeed. And the Cavendish family is so interesting! They deserve a book each, even the little ones. Ada’s was definitely wonderful and I have great hopes for Nora’s!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[JudyAnnLovesBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a surprise. A very good surprise!

𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗔 𝗥𝗢𝗚𝗨𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗦 is a grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract romance and was not what I would consider a conventional historical romance read because the main characters, Ada and Cassius were not conventional and I loved that about them and their story.

Cassius is not a good man. He has done bad things. Really bad things. But isn’t acknowledging ones faults and working hard at bettering oneself, the mark of a good man? To me it is and try as I might I could not, not like Cass. He was a clueless grump with a sense of humor that I loved. He was incredibly likable and endearing. Ada was also a treat. She’s a multifaceted character who will surprise you. I think she surprised herself really. Because underneath her “socially acceptable woman” armor was a woman with a mind of her own and the guts to be who she is not who she should be. She continually surprised me throughout the book.

𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗛 𝗔 𝗥𝗢𝗚𝗨𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗦 is an entertaining read from start to finish. It’s sweet, sexy and funny and a definite must read romance for anyone who loves a little something something with their historical romance books. I’m giving it the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

[Luz T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Teach a Rogue New Tricks
Book 2 in The Cavendish Family
Rating: 3 stars
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC given through NetGalley for review. All opinions are my own.

Teach a Rogue New Trick is a book by an author I have not read previously. Also, I have not read book one in the series.
My overall thoughts on this story was it was an okay read for me. The heroine takes it upon herself to help our hero become a better man. He has done some not so nice things in the past. He considers himself a villain that now is on the road to redemption with help from Ada. In exchange for her tutelage he will take her on some adventures.
It is along these encounters that feelings begin to develop. Feelings that both of them don't know how to express because it means changing their plans for the future.

*******SPOILERS********
Why the 3 stars?
I liked Cass. I think he was a fun character who really wasn't a villain. I like that he admits his wrong doing and apologizes to his family for hurting them. Ada was an okay character. I really don't believe she was that in love with Cass because she was literally on the boat ready to leave without saying goodbye to him. I think she was looking forwards to traveling than to having a relationship with Cass.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ada Cavendish has spent the last five years in the country taking care of her siblings. But she’s ready for a change. What better time than her first London Season? She’ll run a little wild and have a little fun before returning to her quiet domestic existence. Cassius Albee is a future Earl of Brookmere. But he’s also a villain. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law. Now he’s returned determined to reform his roguish ways. And when the smart and bold Miss Cavendish delivers a perfect lecture on the depravity of eavesdropping, he knows he’s found the one. Ada agrees to teach Cass the basics of good behaviour if he’ll help her break a few rules.
A very well written book, which just ticked so many boxes for me. I love both Cass & Ada, he needs redemption & she needs some fun, they were both a delight. A lovely slow build romance. I thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Carmen Denton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-ARC and the opportunity to provide feedback.

Teach a Rogue New Tricks is the second installment in the Cavendish family series.

Cassius Albee is a disgraced Viscount seeking redemption for his past sins of whoring, drunkenness and the attempted abduction of his brother's fiancee, all of which are the results of sibling rivalry gone terribly wrong. He has devised a plan of improvement that might just work if he were not hiding out at his friends' estate. When his friend suggests that he might need assistance in his quest, Cass decides he needs a woman, a governess of sorts to teach him how to be a better man.

Ada Cavendish has been caring for her siblings and two cousins while her father travels the world. She has a sort of fiance that she really doesn't want to marry, but sees no other alternative. When she meets Cass, and agrees to help in his improvement plan in exchange for some adventure in her life (he was a rogue, after all) she sets in motion a train of events that neither of them can control.

This is a sweet, funny and sometimes spicy, story of two lonely people who have to overcome their own self-doubt before they can find their HEA. 4 stars.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

A villainous rogue turned into a gentleman with the help of a bluestocking who wants a bit of a adventure with a rogue who needs her help. She thinks she has to settle for a childhood friend but why should she? When she has an incredible rogue to make her feel adventurous and beautiful.

He gives her the confidence she needed and she gives him the reassurance that everything will work out.

This two characters are made for each other and you can feel it from beginning to end.

This was definitely an amazing slow burn

I look forward to the next book in this series.

[BJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I struggled with the writing style at first as the characters are all burdened by 'unforgivable' sins. I found the H rather sweet as he tries to atone, and falls madly in love with the h. She's wary, and judgemental as she's been badly used by her family. I am pleased I persisted with this sweet tale of redemption.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really wonderful and I really enjoyed it. This is villain redemption done right. Also, very romantic.

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

🗺 Teach a Rogue New Tricks 📕
A Steamy Historical Romance
The Cavendish Family Series Book 2
✒️ Charlie Lane
https://www.facebook.com/CharlieLaneR... Release Date 04/22/2022
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B6D74Y1/...

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

A villainous rogue. A bluestocking in search of adventure. A partnership destined to end in exile or love.

Ada Cavendish has spent the last five years in the country taking care of her siblings. She can mend a ripped stocking, tend a scrapped knee, and deliver a scathing lecture after any misbehavior.

But she’s ready for a change. What better time than her first London Season? She’ll run a little wild and have a little fun before returning to her quiet domestic existence.

Cassius Albee is a future Earl of Brookmere. But he’s also a villain. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law. Now he’s returned determined to reform his roguish ways.

He’s developed a plan for self-improvement. But he’s missing the one thing everyone knows a rake must have in order to reform—a good woman.

And when the smart and bold Miss Cavendish delivers a perfect lecture on the depravity of eavesdropping, he knows he’s found the one.

Ada agrees to teach Cass the basics of good behavior if he’ll help her break a few rules. But can a rake really learn new tricks, or will their perfect plan end in utter ruin? 

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will her dreams and his hopes find a common path …

I remember reading Cassius’ brother story, where he played quite the role of the villain.
So after everything he did, how to redeem a man who nearly destroyed his legacy, kidnapped his sibling’s lover, made his brother’s life quite an ordeal.
But I loved every step he took to his redemption, flawed with ups and downs, but amusing as his thoughts he writes in his red little notebook.
Plus we see him again only after he went through hell having realized the wrongness of his deeds, eaten by his guilt and shame.
He is a man walking a thin line trying to better himself but unable to see his worth so lost between two worlds, his past behaviors and the unknown as everything outside his reminiscing of his past behavior is like an uncharted road.
Until a proper Miss steps in his sight, and upends even more his world.
Ada longs for adventure, after years taking of her kin, she wants a life outside nurturing her family. Yet she does not feel she deserves it, she still must be the prim and proper miss even when her mind yells at her to grab life by the horns.
Why then, how the sudden offer of a study in a cad’s redeeming looks like the bit of fun her existence is seriously lacking.
But with it comes danger and understanding of her own plights.

I loved them together, Ada is closely the only one really seeing Cass, she is not blind to his faults but accepts them as a feat of his past as they do not define him wholly. Cassius is aware of her first as a means to an end but quickly she brings to life new needs and longings. Yet how can they reach an understanding when so much parts them.
5 stars for this moving tale of finding one’s self.

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes

I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

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[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ada has been caring for younger siblings and other young dependents while her father has been traveling for years. Her chance for an adventure of her own comes in the guise of Cassius Albee.

Cassius is a rogue who has committed despicable acts. Lonely and repentant, Cass seeks to find his way back to his families good graces; but he requires a guide and when Ada crosses his path he is intrigued by her warmth and acceptance and seeks her help in reforming his ways.

I found Ada to be an insightful and loving person. She thrives on helping others and enjoys doing so, but she also longs for adventure. More of a country girl, Ada is not jaded by London society and sees Cass with innocent and fresh eyes. She seeks to befriend Cass and help him look to the future and move beyond the wicked man he played in the past.

Cass is a very interesting character. He is a man that played the villain. How can a villain be redeemed? Well a rake can most likely be redeemed by love, right? The selfish man he was recedes further into the recesses of his mind as his heart becomes filled with love and friendship for Ada. He becomes a man who puts others before himself and I loved watching his growth.

Ada and Cass are delightful together. His roguish, silly mannerisms and her blushes and stern admonishments make for sweet depictions of these two young people connecting on a deeper level. I did find the sensual scenes could have been expounded upon to further display the depth of their relationship, but there was plenty of honest dialogue that this detail didn’t take away from their romantic development. I must add here that I truly enjoyed how Lane described their feelings with garden metaphors-it made for some beautiful imagery. I also adored Cass's panic whenever Ava was near a balustrade. As Ada's cousin Jackson put it, "I like his attention to safety". These little nuances played such a large role in developing the connection and love between these two endearing characters.

I did not read Sinning in Secret (London Secret series), which features Cass as a villain, or the first book in this series so it took me a few chapters to get my bearings. I think that it would help to have read the background stories, but I do believe this book covers enough of the details to stand alone.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this eARC thanks to Empowered Publishing via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

#TeachaRogueNewTricks #NetGalley

[Winnifred D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a follow-up to Sinning in Secret from Charlie Lane's London Secrets Series. That wasn't my favorite book in that series (in fact I don't remember it super well), but I did remember the villain, Cass, and was curious as to how he would be transformed into a good guy in this book. I'm happy to say that Cass becomes a believably sympathetic character. He and the h, Ada, have the sort of sweet/spicy chemistry that Charlie Lane specializes in and I really enjoyed their journey toward their HEA.

The rundown: Cass is dealing with the guilt of all the nefarious deeds he's committed in the past and asks Ada, who has basically been the mother figure in her family, to help reform him. Ada is sister to the best friend of the woman Cass kidnapped in Sinning in Secret, so there's a lot of emotional baggage to unpack here.

What I loved:
--Charlie Lane's turns of phrase. I just enjoy how she uses language. Her writing is typically lively and fun.
--Cass is realistic as a remorseful person who is trying to turn his life around, and I liked Ada more and more as the book went on. At the beginning, she seemed a bit self-righteous, but she becomes better fleshed out as the story goes on.
--Good job balancing steam with characterization. I particularly loved the scene under the tree. Some might consider this a "slow burn" romance, but I believed in Cass and Ada's emotional connection.

The reason for less than 5 stars:
I thought the idea of a plan for Cass to reform himself could have been better developed. I was waiting for him to really have to save the day, and while he does small things to show his heroism, and definitely matures, there isn't one big dramatic scene that would prove that to anyone but Ada. Conversely, I thought there might be more humorous scenes of Cass trying (and failing) to turn over a new leaf. Most of the plot consists of Cass's relationship developing with Ada.

Bottom line: This is a relaxing, emotionally satisfying read with just the right amount of steam. It's not as frantically funny as some of Charlie Lane's other books, but it's heartfelt. Definitely recommend.

I read an advanced copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Charlie Lane has written a story that had me laughing, crying and rooting for the “villain” to reform his roguish ways. As always, her characters are not what you expect but that is what makes them so endearing.

Ada Cavendish has been a devoted sister to her siblings these last five years and is excited to experience her first London season. She is looking for a change and some adventure.

Cassius Albee is a disgraced Viscount seeking redemption for the terrible things he has done in the past. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law among other roguish activities. He is hiding out at his friends house when Ada sees him at the window trying to hide but observe what is going on outside. Ada is curious and investigates.

Cassius is determined to change his past behavior and is attempting a plan for self-improvement but needs someone to help him. When he meets Ada it is clear to him that she is the perfect person to help him reform and he will gladly provide her with some rule breaking experiences.

The road to redemption is not completely smooth but boy is it entertaining. Ada and Cassius are opposites in every way but somehow they bring out the best in each other.

I found myself emotional at times, because Cassius was a good man who made a lot of mistakes and truly wanted to be forgiven and reunited with his family. I felt his anguish as he tried to become a better person and was so happy he found Ada and became the man he wanted to be.

I am loving this Cavendish Family series and look forward to the next book in the series so I can laugh, cry and cheer again!

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

This was the first book in the series I read so I was not aware of Cass's actions from book one but this book does a good job of explaining what had happened without giving away so much I couldn't go back and read book one if I wanted. I could see how Cass came to feel so passed over by those in his family that he would go to extremes to live down to what he thought they believed him to be. Not that his actions were right, just that you could understand why he might have done them. My favorite part about Cass and Ada's love story was that it wasn't about her changing him, just her being willing to listen to him and encourage him to learn from his past mistakes and move on. She never gives up on him and apologizes when she realizes that she may have been treating him like an adventure instead of a person. I was not much of a fan of Nora - she was so patronizing to Ada and treated her like she was an idiot. I would have liked more between Ada and her father reconciling. At least he comes through for her in the end. Back to Cass and Ada, I loved their scenes together and how they both seemed to come alive more once they started their friendship. They didn't give up on one another even when one of them pushed the other away. And who doesn't love a big romantic moment on the docks just before their true love is about to sail away?

[SH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ada Cavendish life has gone from caring for her siblings for the past five years, to a possible marriage with a neighbour, brought about by expectation. So when she meets Cassius Albee, the future Earl of Brookmere, she sees the possibility of an adventure when he asks her to help him reform. Can Ada be the one, to teach him the correct behaviour so that he can return to society and make amends with his family? Or will they both be ruined/
I found myself captivated by the first few chapters with Cass and Ada, seeing each other from a distance, and wondering of the possibility of the other. Ada in her desire to do something new, was intrigued by Cass and his ability to say whatever he thought, without the filter of expectation. Cass saw in Ada, someone who was genuine in her desire to be his friend and to help him succeed. As their relationship developed, so too did their own sense of self-worth. I also enjoyed the wisdom of Ada’s father and her step-mother, who support Ada in her actions. Simply writing this review, has brought a smile to my face, as I remember the sweet yet sensual romance between this couple. I look forward to reading the new book in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and Empowered Publishing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute, lively story

Cass is ready to work towards redeeming himself after his interference in his brother's love life secured his reputation as a villain. Ada is the beleaguered eldest daughter whose launch into society was delayed by her devotion to her younger siblings. Now that her father has remarried, Ada has a bit of a reprieve and is anxious to sow a few wild oats. You'd think this would put her on a collision course with Cass, who is trying to turn over a new leaf, but really it works out well as they somewhat meet in the middle.

I loved the epistolary exchanges between these two; short little notes that displayed their wit and charm and allowed them to be more direct than they might have been in person. I loved how Ada didn't really seek to change Cass, she just wanted to show him that he was still capable of doing good things that would improve both his reputation and his sense of inner peace.

There were a couple points that demonstrated a lack of research into historical details of the time period, thus my four stars for what otherwise was a delightful, witty romance. I did love the HEA and their enthusiastic acceptance of each other's past mistakes was inspirational. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy; all opinions are my own.

Ada has spent years fulfilling everyone else’s needs and wants some adventure of her own. Cassius has decided he needs a good woman to help him become… well, less adventurous and more of a good man. They’re ideally placed to help each other, and of course it could never be anything more than that…

I do like a good reformed-rogue story, and this one meets that description very well. I’ve read a number of the author’s earlier books, in which Cass appears a couple of times as a subsidiary character and events take place that are alluded to in this book - for me, that added extra depth to his development from ‘villain’ to the man he is here, although this tale would work fine as a standalone without that background. The interactions between Cass and Ada are fab, especially the letters - I honestly laughed out loud a few times. Add in some well-meaning and not entirely conventional family, and a plot that plays out unexpectedly but perfectly for these characters, and I inhaled this in a day. Looking forward to the intriguingly-hinted-at next one…

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoiler-free summary:

Ada Cavendish has spent the last five years in the country taking care of her siblings. She can mend a ripped stocking, tend a scrapped knee, and deliver a scathing lecture after any misbehavior.

But she’s ready for a change. What better time than her first London Season? She’ll run a little wild and have a little fun before returning to her quiet domestic existence.

Cassius Albee is a future Earl of Brookmere. But he’s also a villain. He was exiled to France after the attempted abduction of his sister-in-law. Now he’s returned determined to reform his roguish ways.

He’s developed a plan for self-improvement. But he’s missing the one thing everyone knows a rake must have in order to reform—a good woman.

What I liked:

It is common to reform a Rake but it is tough to redeem a villain with a capital V. Charlie Lane did an excellent job at redeeming Cassius, you can see his journey and his feeling of guilt and shame. With Ada's help, the journey from villain to hero is deeply satisfying.

Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this book early even if I am a little late.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reform your heart

Cassius aka Cass needed reform. He was a gambler, womanizer and kidnapper who wallowed so deep in despair of a perfect older brother! He lost his way and his father loved him enough to drag him out of hell! Second sons need love too. When Cass snuck his way back into London and saw Ada who fixes broken things or at least tries! Can she repair Cass?
She gave all as a nurse maid to her siblings and to a man she didn't even love. But can she fix a broken man? Cass had decided to reform and was living a celibate life. Knowing there is no way back but utterly clueless to the way forward! Ada starting writing her thoughts to Cass in a series of letters and then step by step they led each other forward!!
Ada believed she had to marry and live in the country to please a man would smother her and made her feel she had no choice because who would want her? When Ada has a chance to choose herself for the first time ever will she and leave Cass?
Cass has won forgiveness and a second chance with his brother and family. Can he give it up for the woman he loves? Will he have to? Can Ada compromise she's given up so much? Bravo! Next is Nora story!

[Colleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teach A Rogue New Tricks is the second book in The Cavendish Series. Cassius the Viscount Albee, has been a rogue and a cad. He tried to kidnap his brother's betrothed and fled England for reasons that made sense to him while he was drunk. A year later, he decides he wants to reform. He has given up drinking, gambling, and women, all of his vices except swearing. He has been reading The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin to help him be a better person. He is not quite sure it is working. What he needs is a woman to teach him how to be good.

Ada Cavendish has always been responsible. When her father was traveling and thereby deserted the family, she took over raising her siblings. She is willing to help Cass reform, but refuses to give up her dream of adventure. A friendship grows between them and they become lovers. Ada does not want to be married, she wants to have adventure before marriage. Cass is determined to give Ada what she wants.

This was a sweet entertaining afternoon read.

I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.