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Scandals and Seductions #3
The Marriage Ring
THE WOMAN WHO WILL ONE DAY WEAR RICHARD LYNSTED'S RING WILL BE GENTEEL, DAINTY, AND WELL-BRED ...
This eliminates Grace MacEachin on all three counts. A hellion of the first order, the alluring, infuriating woman would be nothing more than a passing temptation to an upstanding gentleman like Richard --- if it weren't for the fact that she's trying to blackmail his father!
Or, as Grace sees it, trying to get justice --- and maybe just the slightest hint of revenge on the family that tore her life asunder when she was just a girl. And as for Lynsted, well, the stuffy, humorless man wouldn't suffer for time spent in company more exciting than that of his company ledgers. Only when Richard gets Grace alone, she discovers he may know a thing or two about excitement after all ...
This eliminates Grace MacEachin on all three counts. A hellion of the first order, the alluring, infuriating woman would be nothing more than a passing temptation to an upstanding gentleman like Richard --- if it weren't for the fact that she's trying to blackmail his father!
Or, as Grace sees it, trying to get justice --- and maybe just the slightest hint of revenge on the family that tore her life asunder when she was just a girl. And as for Lynsted, well, the stuffy, humorless man wouldn't suffer for time spent in company more exciting than that of his company ledgers. Only when Richard gets Grace alone, she discovers he may know a thing or two about excitement after all ...
355 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
43 people are currently reading
683 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Maxwell
72 books2,204 followersCATHY MAXWELL spends hours in front of her computer pondering the question, "Why do people fall in love?" It remains for her the mystery of life and the secret to happiness.
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
She lives in the Austin, TX area where she is having the time of her life.
Visit her on Instagram, Twitter, FB, and TikTok at maxwellcathy (Yes, some other Cathy Maxwell nabbed the handle. However, she does own www.cathymaxwell.com and she'd love for you to swing by.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 6, 2017
Richard Lynsted first sees Grace MacEachin in a theater where she is performing on stage to a rowdy crowd. She is an actress/singer known as the "Scottish Songbird". Richard goes backstage to deliver a message to Grace from one of her friends. Richard is really there to discuss the matter of Grace trying to blackmail his father. Grace claims that his father and his uncle (who are twins) unjustly pinned a crime they committed (embezzlement) on her father years ago, and that her father was sentenced to a penal colony for many years. Grace and her mother went from being important members of Inverness, Scotland society to outcasts, living hand to mouth. Grace asks Richard to go with her to Inverness and hear her father's story and see for himself that her father is telling the truth. Richard believes his father and uncle are innocent, but he agrees to go with Grace, and they both set out for Inverness together. Along the way they both discover they were wrong about each other and find out some surprising truths about their relatives/families.
The hero Richard thought he was too big and clumsy and awkward, and not really handsome. He was surprised when Grace started to show an interest in him since she was very beautiful and sought after by many men. At first Grace thought Richard was a bore and priggish, only thinking about work and his ledgers. But he loosened up as the story progressed. They were opposites attracting---the hero was large, the heroine very small and petite. The hero was reserved, the heroine was feisty. The hero was a virgin, the heroine had some experience with men.
I liked Grace. She was strong, bold, and independent. She seemed more worldly than Richard, who was a bit naïve at times. I liked how she fought the bad guys when they were fighting Richard instead of just standing there like some heroines do. She was no shrinking violet. Richard was a sweet and caring hero.
This was an entertaining and lively read. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
The hero Richard thought he was too big and clumsy and awkward, and not really handsome. He was surprised when Grace started to show an interest in him since she was very beautiful and sought after by many men. At first Grace thought Richard was a bore and priggish, only thinking about work and his ledgers. But he loosened up as the story progressed. They were opposites attracting---the hero was large, the heroine very small and petite. The hero was reserved, the heroine was feisty. The hero was a virgin, the heroine had some experience with men.
I liked Grace. She was strong, bold, and independent. She seemed more worldly than Richard, who was a bit naïve at times. I liked how she fought the bad guys when they were fighting Richard instead of just standing there like some heroines do. She was no shrinking violet. Richard was a sweet and caring hero.
This was an entertaining and lively read. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
June 10, 2018
Tick, tick, tick. All boxes checked. An easy read, with characters that captivated me from the start, the added bonus of delightful humour and most important of all, that escapism factor. Did I forget, at least for a few hours, my troubles for the week? Absolutely!
She’s a stage actress, non-virginal, though there’s nothing trampy about her behaviour. She’s a tough cookie who has learnt how to deal with the cards life handed her and only wants her wrongfully jailed father’s name cleared since for her, it signalled the down-turning point of her life. But this means that H’s father and uncle have to admit their unsavoury part in that business.
He comes from a more affluent breed of society, a gentleman whose intelligence and hard work as a lawyer/accountant is unparalleled and whose fierce (though undeserved) loyalty to family means helping him protect their good name. He sets himself the task of travelling with her to find her father to prevent a slur on his family. He’s such a stuffed shirt it’s fun to watch her slowly help remove that proverbial stick up his ass.
Their stubborn loyalty but shared integrity for the truth and rollercoaster events propel the book along. Unfortunately the ending is a bit of an anti-climax. But I turned the pages with anticipation, got vested in the characters early on and fell in love with them. I adored how both slowly break out of their self-built, protective, tough-shelled cocoons and learnt to trust and help each other.
I can't yap about something I know nothing about so I can’t vouch if this romance is good on historical accuracies but I have a feeling if you need that type of solid assurance, you may want to look elsewhere. The author’s priority is fun, twists and drama at an excellent pace.
I have to mention their OTT first sex scene together. I won’t ruin it with details other than a brief fact which may be important for some readers. Don’t click if you want to be surprised . Neither H nor h were conventional so I loved it when the authors kept them in character even during the passionate love scenes.
My sweet GR friend, the other Sandra, whom I like to call The Classy One, has written a far better review with complete details so do check it out. And thanks to Preeti and Vintage whose reviews of another book by this author reminded me of this old favourite.
Highly recommended for entertainment value.
She’s a stage actress, non-virginal, though there’s nothing trampy about her behaviour. She’s a tough cookie who has learnt how to deal with the cards life handed her and only wants her wrongfully jailed father’s name cleared since for her, it signalled the down-turning point of her life. But this means that H’s father and uncle have to admit their unsavoury part in that business.
He comes from a more affluent breed of society, a gentleman whose intelligence and hard work as a lawyer/accountant is unparalleled and whose fierce (though undeserved) loyalty to family means helping him protect their good name. He sets himself the task of travelling with her to find her father to prevent a slur on his family. He’s such a stuffed shirt it’s fun to watch her slowly help remove that proverbial stick up his ass.
Their stubborn loyalty but shared integrity for the truth and rollercoaster events propel the book along. Unfortunately the ending is a bit of an anti-climax. But I turned the pages with anticipation, got vested in the characters early on and fell in love with them. I adored how both slowly break out of their self-built, protective, tough-shelled cocoons and learnt to trust and help each other.
I can't yap about something I know nothing about so I can’t vouch if this romance is good on historical accuracies but I have a feeling if you need that type of solid assurance, you may want to look elsewhere. The author’s priority is fun, twists and drama at an excellent pace.
I have to mention their OTT first sex scene together. I won’t ruin it with details other than a brief fact which may be important for some readers. Don’t click if you want to be surprised . Neither H nor h were conventional so I loved it when the authors kept them in character even during the passionate love scenes.
My sweet GR friend, the other Sandra, whom I like to call The Classy One, has written a far better review with complete details so do check it out. And thanks to Preeti and Vintage whose reviews of another book by this author reminded me of this old favourite.
Highly recommended for entertainment value.
September 25, 2018
Flaky and shaky the writing maybe, with plenty of anachronistic behaviour and expressions but this book has that secret, special something.
For one, a most odd couple but with an amazing and endearing chemistry minus the coyness and then things keep happening and there’s barely a let up.
An unapologetically non-virgin h and a ‘celibate’ H. A gutsy actress with no pretensions of talent apart for her sweet voice and a stodgy lawyer? An almost 'beauty and the beast' match- she's a petite sparkling beauty who drives men mad at her very sight and he's an awkward giant who'd rather be alone with his ledgers than do anything remotely adventurous. That sure hits all the right notes.
And when they are on opposite and warring sides of a family feud/family secrets with the h hellbent on exposing his family and even blackmailing them, and he’s sworn to protect his family, the sparks are sure to fly.
And then they set on a fact finding mission/adventure with danger sniping at every step. And also love!
However, she was no meek-and-mild miss. The blood of Highlanders pulsed through her veins...She was so capable. She made him feel like a damn eunuch.
And Grace fell deeper in love. She’d known many men in her life but this bear of a man with a lawyer’s mind, an accountant’s habits, and a knight’s spirit outshone them all.
A surprising gem. Loved it!
For one, a most odd couple but with an amazing and endearing chemistry minus the coyness and then things keep happening and there’s barely a let up.
An unapologetically non-virgin h and a ‘celibate’ H. A gutsy actress with no pretensions of talent apart for her sweet voice and a stodgy lawyer? An almost 'beauty and the beast' match- she's a petite sparkling beauty who drives men mad at her very sight and he's an awkward giant who'd rather be alone with his ledgers than do anything remotely adventurous. That sure hits all the right notes.
And when they are on opposite and warring sides of a family feud/family secrets with the h hellbent on exposing his family and even blackmailing them, and he’s sworn to protect his family, the sparks are sure to fly.
And then they set on a fact finding mission/adventure with danger sniping at every step. And also love!
However, she was no meek-and-mild miss. The blood of Highlanders pulsed through her veins...She was so capable. She made him feel like a damn eunuch.
And Grace fell deeper in love. She’d known many men in her life but this bear of a man with a lawyer’s mind, an accountant’s habits, and a knight’s spirit outshone them all.
A surprising gem. Loved it!
January 10, 2020
This story is beautifully balanced with great pacing. The h wants the H to see that his father and uncle are to blame for the crime that caused her father to be imprisoned. The H is an honourable man, betrothed and a late bloomer, a virgin. She's not and he's horrified at his attraction to her, at first. Their adventure is wonderful, and they both learn about honour and love. This is perhaps my favourite from this author.
August 5, 2022
This was very sweet, I really liked both Richard and Grace, and especially them together.
Grace was a lovely character, facing her past and all the mental baggage she had from life. She never let it get her down, even if it made her defensive at times (understandably) but still open to hope and connection with Richard.
Poor bb Richard, trying so hard to be good enough and fit in and he just struggles. I loved seeing him find himself slowly throughout the book.
there was just so much sweetness as they worked on understanding and learning each other!!
They both had well done personal growth arcs, as well as coming together. This is one of those books where I can really see them being happy for a long time, as seeing them coming together in partnership throughout the events. It's so sweet. And they had great communication - even the miscommunications/struggles were addressed in a totally reasonable way.
All around a very enjoyable read.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
Grace was a lovely character, facing her past and all the mental baggage she had from life. She never let it get her down, even if it made her defensive at times (understandably) but still open to hope and connection with Richard.
Poor bb Richard, trying so hard to be good enough and fit in and he just struggles. I loved seeing him find himself slowly throughout the book.
He also wished he’d taken a moment to tell her what he really thought about her. He’d tell her she was beautiful—but then she’d heard that from a hundred other men. So Richard amended his thoughts. He decided, if he could speak to Grace one last time, he’d tell her how resourceful she was, and wise. And that he admired her intelligence and even her bluntness that could set his teeth on edge.
there was just so much sweetness as they worked on understanding and learning each other!!
They both had well done personal growth arcs, as well as coming together. This is one of those books where I can really see them being happy for a long time, as seeing them coming together in partnership throughout the events. It's so sweet. And they had great communication - even the miscommunications/struggles were addressed in a totally reasonable way.
All around a very enjoyable read.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
April 6, 2022
A first from this Author, I like this trope where the hero is plain looking but strong and intelligent.
Richard is a good man, a little starchy and very straight forward. He was a prig at first but then fell in love with Grace.
Grace was the Scottish songbird in London , thwarting all indecent proposals from men who wanted her as a mistress. Grace's past is horrible and I understood what a broken family did to a child. She was abused , belittled and alone but she became strong on her own. I admired her then.
Richard and Grace travelled to Scotland to know the truth about her father's injustice involving Richard's father and uncle. Events are entertaining while they journeyed to Inverness like murder attempt, an unfair trial, and boxing match. I like it, It feels everything was duly planned.
Richard is a good man, a little starchy and very straight forward. He was a prig at first but then fell in love with Grace.
Grace was the Scottish songbird in London , thwarting all indecent proposals from men who wanted her as a mistress. Grace's past is horrible and I understood what a broken family did to a child. She was abused , belittled and alone but she became strong on her own. I admired her then.
Richard and Grace travelled to Scotland to know the truth about her father's injustice involving Richard's father and uncle. Events are entertaining while they journeyed to Inverness like murder attempt, an unfair trial, and boxing match. I like it, It feels everything was duly planned.
September 15, 2023
The Marriage Ring by Cathy Maxwell was just an okay listen for me. I didn't mind the narration by Anne Flosnik but I guess it was the storyline. For a quick listen, I could not connect with the characters. Chalking this one up to timing for me and will listen another time to see if my thoughts change.
Want to read
January 22, 2010I hope this one doesn't have a cheating hero like her last book. I like her writing, but I skipped The Earl Claims His Wife because of the adulterous hero.
May 7, 2011
Review ditulis dalam bahasa Indonesia :)
Grace MacEachin, seorang aktris panggung, dikenal dengan nama “Scottish Songbird”, karena suaranya yang memukau, dan memeiliki banyak penggemar di kalangan bangsawan Inggris yang sayangnya sebagian hanya ingin memilikinya sebagai selingkuhan atau membawanya ke tempat tidur. Grace yang tidak tahan dengan perlakuan yang diterimanya ingin berhenti dari teater yang telah membesarkan namanya, tapi si manajer tidak setuju. Dia berusaha memaksa Grace untuk tidak berhenti, bahkan berusaha memperkosanya. Di saat itulah, Grace ditolong oleh seorang pria dengan perawakan yang tinggi besar, yang sayangnya setelah menolong Grace, bersikap sinis pada gadis itu.
Richard Lynsted, sepupu seorang duke, dan pewaris bisnis perkapalan keluarganya, sudah mengamati Grace sejak dia berdiri dan menyanyi di panggung. Walau dalam hati, dia tertarik pada Grace, namun Richard memantapkan hati untuk tidak terpengaruh dengan gadis itu, dan mencari tahu alasan kenapa Grace berusaha memeras ayah dan pamannya. Grace menuduh ayah dan paman Richard bertanggung jawab atas hukuman yang diterima ayah Grace, seorang pendeta gereja yang dituduh mencuri uang dari seorang wanita bangsawan tua, dan akhirnya menghancurkan hidup Grace. Richard tentu tidak percaya begitu saja dengan Grace, bahkan setelah dia menolong Grace dari manajer yang berusaha memperkosanya. Grace tetap bersikukuh bahwa ayah dan paman Richard bersalah. Grace lalu mengajak Richard pergi ke Scotlandia, kampung halaman Grace yang sudah dia tinggalkan selama 5 tahun, untuk mendengar kisah yang sebenarnya dari ayah Grace.
Grace dan Richard akhirnya pergi ke Inverness, Scotlandia, untuk mengungkap kebenaran yang sesungguhnya. Namun perjalanan mereka tidak begitu mulus. Rupanya ayah dan paman Richard berusaha membunuh Grace, untuk menutup mulutnya. Richard berusaha melindungi gadis itu, karena dia menyadari bahwa Grace sebenarnya tidak seburuk yang dia kira. Walaupun Richard sudah bertunangan dengan gadis lain, dia menyadari bahwa Grace sudah mencuri hatinya, dan memutuskan bahwa gadis itulah yang dia pilih untuk mengenakan cincin perkawinan darinya. Namun kebenaran dari kasus antara keluarga Richard dan keluarga Grace sangat mengguncang hati Grace. Grace merasa tidak pantas menjadi istri Richard, apalagi setelah tahu Richard telah bertunangan. Mampukah Grace dan Richard akhirnya bersama? Pada akhirnya cinta mereka berdua mengalahkan segala rintangan yang ada dan menyatukan mereka.
Buat sebuah HR, yah datar-datar aja
So so aja
Ga memuaskan :P
Grace MacEachin, seorang aktris panggung, dikenal dengan nama “Scottish Songbird”, karena suaranya yang memukau, dan memeiliki banyak penggemar di kalangan bangsawan Inggris yang sayangnya sebagian hanya ingin memilikinya sebagai selingkuhan atau membawanya ke tempat tidur. Grace yang tidak tahan dengan perlakuan yang diterimanya ingin berhenti dari teater yang telah membesarkan namanya, tapi si manajer tidak setuju. Dia berusaha memaksa Grace untuk tidak berhenti, bahkan berusaha memperkosanya. Di saat itulah, Grace ditolong oleh seorang pria dengan perawakan yang tinggi besar, yang sayangnya setelah menolong Grace, bersikap sinis pada gadis itu.
Richard Lynsted, sepupu seorang duke, dan pewaris bisnis perkapalan keluarganya, sudah mengamati Grace sejak dia berdiri dan menyanyi di panggung. Walau dalam hati, dia tertarik pada Grace, namun Richard memantapkan hati untuk tidak terpengaruh dengan gadis itu, dan mencari tahu alasan kenapa Grace berusaha memeras ayah dan pamannya. Grace menuduh ayah dan paman Richard bertanggung jawab atas hukuman yang diterima ayah Grace, seorang pendeta gereja yang dituduh mencuri uang dari seorang wanita bangsawan tua, dan akhirnya menghancurkan hidup Grace. Richard tentu tidak percaya begitu saja dengan Grace, bahkan setelah dia menolong Grace dari manajer yang berusaha memperkosanya. Grace tetap bersikukuh bahwa ayah dan paman Richard bersalah. Grace lalu mengajak Richard pergi ke Scotlandia, kampung halaman Grace yang sudah dia tinggalkan selama 5 tahun, untuk mendengar kisah yang sebenarnya dari ayah Grace.
Grace dan Richard akhirnya pergi ke Inverness, Scotlandia, untuk mengungkap kebenaran yang sesungguhnya. Namun perjalanan mereka tidak begitu mulus. Rupanya ayah dan paman Richard berusaha membunuh Grace, untuk menutup mulutnya. Richard berusaha melindungi gadis itu, karena dia menyadari bahwa Grace sebenarnya tidak seburuk yang dia kira. Walaupun Richard sudah bertunangan dengan gadis lain, dia menyadari bahwa Grace sudah mencuri hatinya, dan memutuskan bahwa gadis itulah yang dia pilih untuk mengenakan cincin perkawinan darinya. Namun kebenaran dari kasus antara keluarga Richard dan keluarga Grace sangat mengguncang hati Grace. Grace merasa tidak pantas menjadi istri Richard, apalagi setelah tahu Richard telah bertunangan. Mampukah Grace dan Richard akhirnya bersama? Pada akhirnya cinta mereka berdua mengalahkan segala rintangan yang ada dan menyatukan mereka.
Buat sebuah HR, yah datar-datar aja
So so aja
Ga memuaskan :P
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2019
I've read better stuff but it was a simple and easy read that someone being introduced to the Historical Romance genre might enjoy. I need to think about it more...
April 28, 2013
You've got a stuffy lawyer with a body of a giant and a beautiful petite actress/singer who's blackmailing his family. They go on a journey to find out the truth and they end up with their own happily ever after.
This is a favorite of mine, and I've re-read it many times and I know I'll probably re-read it again. The first time I read this I rated it 4 stars but after I've re-read it I can't figure out why I didn't make it 5 stars. Since it's not fair, because I don't re-read all my books, I won't change the rating but I can tell you I think it fits in the 5 star category.
I think Cathy Maxwell has given us something new here. Sometimes I get tired of reading about Dukes and Earls and people who are poor but then find out they come from a rich family. Here we've got two people of the lower class (well the hero isn't lower class but he's someone who works for a living) and the heroine isn't a virgin- . I re-read this when I want to read about a non-virgin heroine with stuffy hero, just so I can step away from the world of balls and ballgowns stories.
I love that the heroine and hero even fit their names... 'Richard' is the perfect name for a stuffy attorney and Grace is the perfect name for a beautiful singer. She's not a courtesan by any means but she's not a mistress.. she's had lovers but she's not loose and she doesn't spend her time trying to seduce Richard or mess with his head. They are pretty honest with each other and I love that about them- no big misunderstandings until the small one at the end but even then that felt understandable. He's not a giant teddy bear, he's a giant tough guy who wears his heart on his sleeve and he's just looking for someone to love him.
Separately they might be lacking but together they become a power-couple and I can really see them having lots of babies while he works in his office and she sings them lullabies.
This is a favorite of mine, and I've re-read it many times and I know I'll probably re-read it again. The first time I read this I rated it 4 stars but after I've re-read it I can't figure out why I didn't make it 5 stars. Since it's not fair, because I don't re-read all my books, I won't change the rating but I can tell you I think it fits in the 5 star category.
I think Cathy Maxwell has given us something new here. Sometimes I get tired of reading about Dukes and Earls and people who are poor but then find out they come from a rich family. Here we've got two people of the lower class (well the hero isn't lower class but he's someone who works for a living) and the heroine isn't a virgin- . I re-read this when I want to read about a non-virgin heroine with stuffy hero, just so I can step away from the world of balls and ballgowns stories.
I love that the heroine and hero even fit their names... 'Richard' is the perfect name for a stuffy attorney and Grace is the perfect name for a beautiful singer. She's not a courtesan by any means but she's not a mistress.. she's had lovers but she's not loose and she doesn't spend her time trying to seduce Richard or mess with his head. They are pretty honest with each other and I love that about them- no big misunderstandings until the small one at the end but even then that felt understandable. He's not a giant teddy bear, he's a giant tough guy who wears his heart on his sleeve and he's just looking for someone to love him.
Separately they might be lacking but together they become a power-couple and I can really see them having lots of babies while he works in his office and she sings them lullabies.
July 6, 2021
I loved the two main characters in this book - Grace and Richard are both relatable, and the way they fall for each other and see through one another's faults is so swoon-worthy. However, the plot for this one didn't really work for me. I had a hard time getting into the story, and the plot twists/resolution felt a bit half-hearted. I will try another Cathy Maxwell based on the strength of the characters alone!
December 6, 2012
Apart from the weird and almost abrupt last few chapters, it was a really great story. I think it's almost impossible to not enjoy Cathy Maxwell's story at some point in the storytelling. I'm a fan of writing, and even though this is not the best I've read, I still fund it entertaining.
August 27, 2013
I liked this story, but it devolved at the end. Apparently expecting someone to be punished for trying to kill Grace and nearly getting Richard hung was too much to expect. Still Richard was quite likable especially since he wasn't the typical super-confident hero.
December 8, 2010
More contrived and lacking in interest than usual.
June 14, 2017
Can sworn enemies become true loves? This is what this story tackles and questions time and time again.
Grace and Richard meet and butt heads from the onset of their fascinating relationship. They not only have to contend with lies and deceit but also murder attempts on her life and this is all because of the mystery as to what really happened to a large amount of missing monies from Dame Mary Ewing's extensive estate. Who was really guilty of helping themselves to this?
Cathy Maxwell has given Grace and Richard the right amount of strength of character to survive their quest and discover what really happened and at the same time have them falling crazily in love with each other.
Extremely well written and very easy to read and follow, this story has me hungering for more from this very talented author.
Grace and Richard meet and butt heads from the onset of their fascinating relationship. They not only have to contend with lies and deceit but also murder attempts on her life and this is all because of the mystery as to what really happened to a large amount of missing monies from Dame Mary Ewing's extensive estate. Who was really guilty of helping themselves to this?
Cathy Maxwell has given Grace and Richard the right amount of strength of character to survive their quest and discover what really happened and at the same time have them falling crazily in love with each other.
Extremely well written and very easy to read and follow, this story has me hungering for more from this very talented author.
July 20, 2020
THIS BOOK WAS GLORIOUS, To say the least. Although I'm just reviewing it, I've read this book a long time ago so I can't remember a lot. Only that I loved the hero and heroine so damn much!! They really impressed me. I especially loved the hero because even though he disliked her, he still acted the gentleman towards her and treated her with care and respect?..
I can't remember the whole story but I do remember my best part...
SPOILER ALERT!!
And that was the part when she had to have sex with him for warmth during a really cold night. Grace gave him her body to keep Richard alive even though she despised him. This was spectacular for Richard considering he was already fighting his attraction to her. He was BEDAZZLED by her body and even with the bone chilling cold, she did things to his body he'll never forget in a long timI recommend this boom for EVERYONE!!.
I can't remember the whole story but I do remember my best part...
SPOILER ALERT!!
And that was the part when she had to have sex with him for warmth during a really cold night. Grace gave him her body to keep Richard alive even though she despised him. This was spectacular for Richard considering he was already fighting his attraction to her. He was BEDAZZLED by her body and even with the bone chilling cold, she did things to his body he'll never forget in a long timI recommend this boom for EVERYONE!!.
August 3, 2021
I cried...
I was wondering if this book would meet the high standards of the last one, and it is fair to say that it was much better. I would give this book 10 stars if I could. There's no crazy plot twist, no toxic masculinity or overbearing sensibilities. This book was pure, grounded love and romance with a nice touch of steam... and I loved it, so much that I cried. She is independent and experienced, and he loves her for it. He is sweet, honorable, romantic, and lovable. It was overwhelming in the most wondrous way.
I was wondering if this book would meet the high standards of the last one, and it is fair to say that it was much better. I would give this book 10 stars if I could. There's no crazy plot twist, no toxic masculinity or overbearing sensibilities. This book was pure, grounded love and romance with a nice touch of steam... and I loved it, so much that I cried. She is independent and experienced, and he loves her for it. He is sweet, honorable, romantic, and lovable. It was overwhelming in the most wondrous way.
January 7, 2022
I love how Cathy Maxwell tells stories! I have listened to hundreds of audio books and her stories in this series always catch me off guard and go in a direction that yanks on my heart strings, while twisting and turning in directions I did not see coming! It's a literary free fall! :)
"Copy and Pasting" this for the next books in this series!!
"Copy and Pasting" this for the next books in this series!!
February 15, 2024
Back to a bit of adventure and action.
Liked it better than Gillian's story, this one had actual events.
Again a lackluster unraveling of the mystery driving the story, but quite likable, I didn't end up with questions at the end of this one so I guess that is an improvement.
Off to the next in this series, I am determined to be through with it before the end of the weekend.
Liked it better than Gillian's story, this one had actual events.
Again a lackluster unraveling of the mystery driving the story, but quite likable, I didn't end up with questions at the end of this one so I guess that is an improvement.
Off to the next in this series, I am determined to be through with it before the end of the weekend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2017
A fun story with two likeable protagonists. The title gives the ending away, but it was fun watching Grace and Richard work their way from opponents to lovers.
August 12, 2021
I enjoyed this one. A good hero and heroine that come from opposite sides which is always fun.
April 27, 2022
The heroine was raped at a young age. And all the men in this book, except the hero, are horrible.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2022
Scribd
Just sad...skipped the whole middle. Even the end was sad.
Just sad...skipped the whole middle. Even the end was sad.
February 6, 2023
Amei os personagens, porém a resolução da trama deixou a desejar.
April 28, 2024
This book gave me butterflies.
September 21, 2024
Grace has accused Richard's father and uncle of framing her father many years ago and Richard is out to prove her wrong. Grace quits the theatre and dares Richard to come with her to Inverness to here what her father has to say, all plans go awry when Richards relatives retainers try to kill Grace and almost kill Richard instead.
I loved that Richard was kind of the lost (virginal)ingenue in this story and Grace repeatedly saves his life which is just nice flip of the script every once in a while.
I loved that Richard was kind of the lost (virginal)ingenue in this story and Grace repeatedly saves his life which is just nice flip of the script every once in a while.
March 30, 2016
I would've liked to give this book more stars but the things that set me off were for some small but for me they were too off putting and annoying.
First, I've read books with 'godly' characters before and ive been annoyed with every single one. While I don't have a problem with religion I am not a very religious person because of the views that such stict reviews bring about and this book made methink of that especially i relation to women. It wasn't just the character (s) with this perception but when its brought up it ruins a bite of the enjoyment for me.
Second, While I found Richard completely adroable and endearing there was a point where I just couldn't take it any more and wanted him to man up-- sooner. He acts too younng even with his inexperience it would've been better for him to move along faster than he did. As a result Grace seemed likethe over powering character and there was little balance to the relationship.
In the end there was some balance but becuase the book took so long it didn't have time to even out completely or for Richard to seem up to par. Which I found a shame becuase th book was very enjoyable it just didn't seem to be well paced in character growth, mainly Richards.
However, Grace and Richard do make the perfect couple once the majority of the kincks are ironed out and there is some balance to them as a couple. Her being allowed weakness and him stepping in as her shield (still a little flimsy it may be). If he had only maned up a little earlier on and perhaps a bit more there could've been more balance making for better character growth and there fore a more well rounded story.
Their moments of balance were a big saving grace for this book.Becuase during those moments the romance in their realtionship was very sweet, romantic and touchhing. I espeically enjoyed the relatinship through Richard as he is a different sort of hero as he grows to see Grace in anothe light outside his need to appeal to his father. Instead he grows from a very unsure man to one with more confidence and understanding of what will make him happy yet still having that somewhat naievete to him (which was what bothered me most since there wasn't much growth outside of that).
Grace I found to be very modern. Independent smart and clever. Willig to defy soceity to make her own way her way despite what people may say or think. Yet, at the same time she's got a weakness to her from her troubled past that is hidden beneath the strength and wit she shields herself with.
I also enjoy the twins. Its been awhile since I 've come across a book with 'villians' that I despise so much while they are more conving and greedily evil while giving airs that they truly beileve they did nothing wrong as well as self righousness. It makes for a great villian(s) and the're presented in a way that just makes the reader cringe when it comes to them. That takes some skill. Even more so when they more than anything work behind the scenes and all the evil comes out through their self rightous behavior rather than any outward acts of evil that you see in many other books.
Well worth the read despite the few annoyances I found. I really enjoyd it none the less.
First, I've read books with 'godly' characters before and ive been annoyed with every single one. While I don't have a problem with religion I am not a very religious person because of the views that such stict reviews bring about and this book made methink of that especially i relation to women. It wasn't just the character (s) with this perception but when its brought up it ruins a bite of the enjoyment for me.
Second, While I found Richard completely adroable and endearing there was a point where I just couldn't take it any more and wanted him to man up-- sooner. He acts too younng even with his inexperience it would've been better for him to move along faster than he did. As a result Grace seemed likethe over powering character and there was little balance to the relationship.
In the end there was some balance but becuase the book took so long it didn't have time to even out completely or for Richard to seem up to par. Which I found a shame becuase th book was very enjoyable it just didn't seem to be well paced in character growth, mainly Richards.
However, Grace and Richard do make the perfect couple once the majority of the kincks are ironed out and there is some balance to them as a couple. Her being allowed weakness and him stepping in as her shield (still a little flimsy it may be). If he had only maned up a little earlier on and perhaps a bit more there could've been more balance making for better character growth and there fore a more well rounded story.
Their moments of balance were a big saving grace for this book.Becuase during those moments the romance in their realtionship was very sweet, romantic and touchhing. I espeically enjoyed the relatinship through Richard as he is a different sort of hero as he grows to see Grace in anothe light outside his need to appeal to his father. Instead he grows from a very unsure man to one with more confidence and understanding of what will make him happy yet still having that somewhat naievete to him (which was what bothered me most since there wasn't much growth outside of that).
Grace I found to be very modern. Independent smart and clever. Willig to defy soceity to make her own way her way despite what people may say or think. Yet, at the same time she's got a weakness to her from her troubled past that is hidden beneath the strength and wit she shields herself with.
I also enjoy the twins. Its been awhile since I 've come across a book with 'villians' that I despise so much while they are more conving and greedily evil while giving airs that they truly beileve they did nothing wrong as well as self righousness. It makes for a great villian(s) and the're presented in a way that just makes the reader cringe when it comes to them. That takes some skill. Even more so when they more than anything work behind the scenes and all the evil comes out through their self rightous behavior rather than any outward acts of evil that you see in many other books.
Well worth the read despite the few annoyances I found. I really enjoyd it none the less.
September 21, 2024
Audiobook. Re-read 09/21/2024. 3.5 stars bumped up for heroine Grace. The writing is a bit thin and I wasn’t entirely sold on the romance, but I was fully invested in Grace and wanted the world for her. Richard (virgin hero alert) was difficult to engage with at first, but the author does a reasonably good job of engendering my sympathy with his backstory and the portrayal of a desperately lonely young man, who for all his intelligence and success, has been living a small andisolated life. Also, Richard isn’t hopelessly intractable; he changes and grows as a direct result of Grace.
November 22, 2018
The Honorable Richard Lynsted knows exactly the kind of woman he wants to marry: one who is well-bred, reserved, genteel, and most definitely not a Scottish actress intent on blackmailing his father. In other words, his future wife will be the exact opposite of Grace MacEachin. The “Scottish Songbird” may have all of London dangling after her charms, but Richard refuses to be swayed by Miss MacEachin’s looks when he listens to her ridiculous story about his father and uncle ruining her father’s life. To prove her wrong, Richard agrees to accompany Grace to Scotland where he will hear what her father has to say. It should have been a simple trip…
Grace doesn’t trust any man, but she is relieved when Richard Lynsted agrees to hear her father’s story. She’s just one coach ride away from being reunited with her father and putting her past behind her. Too bad that one coach ride is a long one, made interminable by the priggish man accompanying her.
But Richard isn’t as stuffy as he seems. And Grace is more than just a beautiful woman. And someone doesn’t want them to make it to Scotland alive. With danger bringing two seemingly opposite people together, will Richard and Grace learn that they do, in fact, have more in common than they first believed? Or will new fears and past hurts keep this newfound couple from taking their blossoming romance all the way to the altar?
Get ready for one of the sweetest, most charming romances of the year with The Marriage Ring. Ever since Cathy Maxwell introduced the indomitable Grace MacEachin in In the Highlander’s Bed I’ve been waiting for Grace’s story. To my great pleasure, The Marriage Ring was everything I could hope for. Grace is still the strong, caring beauty I first grew attached to and she meets her match in Richard. Richard may be a big bear of a man, but he’s got a soft heart. Both he and Grace share a common yearning for approval and what I adored about their story was the two of them learning what really mattered in life and finding the acceptance they so sought where they least expected it – from one another.
The Marriage Ring is the third book in Ms. Maxwell’s Scandals and Seductions series but it stands all on its own. Fans of Ms. Maxwell’s will likely delight, as I did, in the brief references to Nick (Richard’s cousin) and Fiona (Grace’s friend), who fell in love in the first Scandals and Seductions story, A Seduction at Christmas. I finished The Marriage Ring utterly contented with Grace and Richard’s romance. It was fast-paced, entertaining, and at times absolutely melted my heart. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Maxwell has in store for readers in her next sure-to-be-fabulous book!
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed.
Grace doesn’t trust any man, but she is relieved when Richard Lynsted agrees to hear her father’s story. She’s just one coach ride away from being reunited with her father and putting her past behind her. Too bad that one coach ride is a long one, made interminable by the priggish man accompanying her.
But Richard isn’t as stuffy as he seems. And Grace is more than just a beautiful woman. And someone doesn’t want them to make it to Scotland alive. With danger bringing two seemingly opposite people together, will Richard and Grace learn that they do, in fact, have more in common than they first believed? Or will new fears and past hurts keep this newfound couple from taking their blossoming romance all the way to the altar?
Get ready for one of the sweetest, most charming romances of the year with The Marriage Ring. Ever since Cathy Maxwell introduced the indomitable Grace MacEachin in In the Highlander’s Bed I’ve been waiting for Grace’s story. To my great pleasure, The Marriage Ring was everything I could hope for. Grace is still the strong, caring beauty I first grew attached to and she meets her match in Richard. Richard may be a big bear of a man, but he’s got a soft heart. Both he and Grace share a common yearning for approval and what I adored about their story was the two of them learning what really mattered in life and finding the acceptance they so sought where they least expected it – from one another.
The Marriage Ring is the third book in Ms. Maxwell’s Scandals and Seductions series but it stands all on its own. Fans of Ms. Maxwell’s will likely delight, as I did, in the brief references to Nick (Richard’s cousin) and Fiona (Grace’s friend), who fell in love in the first Scandals and Seductions story, A Seduction at Christmas. I finished The Marriage Ring utterly contented with Grace and Richard’s romance. It was fast-paced, entertaining, and at times absolutely melted my heart. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Maxwell has in store for readers in her next sure-to-be-fabulous book!
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed.
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