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Lost City #3
Desires of a Perfect Lady
A secret list of the desires of Lady Olivia Rathbourne:
1. Disregard convention
2. Follow my heart
3. Bed the Earl of Wyldewood
A decade ago, Olivia had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood, only to have happiness stolen from her before his ring could be placed upon her finger. Now he stands before her, as proud and arrogant and handsome as ever, vowing to rescue her. Well, he's got some nerve turning up after all these years. Where was he when she needed him?
As for the earl, scandal has never touched him nor has impropriety ever besmirched his name. But his penchant for doing the expected does have his family calling him, well, dull. Isn't it time to flaunt society's conventions and do what he's always wanted? And first on his list: Olivia in his bedwith or without a wedding.
1. Disregard convention
2. Follow my heart
3. Bed the Earl of Wyldewood
A decade ago, Olivia had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood, only to have happiness stolen from her before his ring could be placed upon her finger. Now he stands before her, as proud and arrogant and handsome as ever, vowing to rescue her. Well, he's got some nerve turning up after all these years. Where was he when she needed him?
As for the earl, scandal has never touched him nor has impropriety ever besmirched his name. But his penchant for doing the expected does have his family calling him, well, dull. Isn't it time to flaunt society's conventions and do what he's always wanted? And first on his list: Olivia in his bedwith or without a wedding.
377 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 30, 2010
48 people are currently reading
780 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Alexander
64 books1,323 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
New York Times bestselling author Victoria Alexander was an award winning television reporter until she discovered fiction was much more fun than real life. She turned to writing full time and is still shocked it worked out.
Since the publication of her first book in 1995, she has written thirty-one full length novels and six novellas. The Perfect Wife—originally published in 1996 and reissued in March 2008—hit #1 on the New York Times list. Sixteen of her books are bestsellers hitting the New York Times, USA Today and/or Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. With books translated into more than a dozen different languages she has readers around the world and has twice been nominated for Romance's Writers of America prestigious RITA award. In 2009 she was given a Career Achievement Award from RT Bookclub and was named Historical Storyteller of the year in 2003. In 2008 she was the keynote speaker for the Romance Writers of American annual conference in San Francisco. Victoria credits much of her writing success to her experiences as a reporter.
Her years as a broadcast journalist were spent in two radically different areas of the country: Nebraska and West Virginia. In West Virginia, she covered both natural and manmade disasters. She was on the scene when a power plant construction accident in a small town left 52 men dead. She once spent the night on a mountain waiting to learn of the fate of coal miners trapped in a mine collapse. Victoria was producing a newscast when her husband (who worked at the same television station) and several other journalists were held hostage by a disturbed Vietnam veteran. In Nebraska, she reported on the farm crisis and watched people lose land that had been in their families for generations. She covered the story that was the basis of the movie BOYS DON’T CRY and once acted as the link between police and a gunman who had barricaded himself in his home. Her investigative work exposed the trucking of New York City garbage to a small town dump in rural Nebraska.
During her journalism career, Victoria covered every president from Ford to Clinton. She knows firsthand what it feels like to be surrounded by rising floodwaters and inside a burning building. She’s interviewed movie stars including Kevin Costner, ridden an elephant and flown in a governor’s helicopter. She’s covered a national political convention and Pope John Paul II’s historic visit to Denver as well as small town festivals celebrating everything from walnuts to Glen Miller. Her work was honored by numerous organizations including the Associated Press who called a feature about a firefighter’s school "story telling genius". It was the encouragement she needed to turn from news to fiction. She’s never looked back.
Victoria claims her love of romance and journalism is to due to the influence of her favorite comic book character: Lois Lane, a terrific reporter and a great heroine who pursued Superman with an unwavering determination. And why not? He was extremely well drawn.
Victoria grew up traveling the world as an Air Force brat. Today, she lives in Omaha, Nebraska with her husband and her dogs. Victoria had two bearded collies, Sam and Louie (named from characters in one of her books). Sam (on the left), the best dog in the world for 13 ½ years, passed away in September 2010. Louie took on the position of loyal companion and did a fine job even though he doesn't understand that kitchen counter surfing is not allowed!
Now he's been joined by Reggie, also a faithful companion.
They all live happily ever after in a house under constant renovation and the accompanying parade of men in tool belts. And never ending chaos. Victoria laughs a great deal—she has to.
New York Times bestselling author Victoria Alexander was an award winning television reporter until she discovered fiction was much more fun than real life. She turned to writing full time and is still shocked it worked out.
Since the publication of her first book in 1995, she has written thirty-one full length novels and six novellas. The Perfect Wife—originally published in 1996 and reissued in March 2008—hit #1 on the New York Times list. Sixteen of her books are bestsellers hitting the New York Times, USA Today and/or Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. With books translated into more than a dozen different languages she has readers around the world and has twice been nominated for Romance's Writers of America prestigious RITA award. In 2009 she was given a Career Achievement Award from RT Bookclub and was named Historical Storyteller of the year in 2003. In 2008 she was the keynote speaker for the Romance Writers of American annual conference in San Francisco. Victoria credits much of her writing success to her experiences as a reporter.
Her years as a broadcast journalist were spent in two radically different areas of the country: Nebraska and West Virginia. In West Virginia, she covered both natural and manmade disasters. She was on the scene when a power plant construction accident in a small town left 52 men dead. She once spent the night on a mountain waiting to learn of the fate of coal miners trapped in a mine collapse. Victoria was producing a newscast when her husband (who worked at the same television station) and several other journalists were held hostage by a disturbed Vietnam veteran. In Nebraska, she reported on the farm crisis and watched people lose land that had been in their families for generations. She covered the story that was the basis of the movie BOYS DON’T CRY and once acted as the link between police and a gunman who had barricaded himself in his home. Her investigative work exposed the trucking of New York City garbage to a small town dump in rural Nebraska.
During her journalism career, Victoria covered every president from Ford to Clinton. She knows firsthand what it feels like to be surrounded by rising floodwaters and inside a burning building. She’s interviewed movie stars including Kevin Costner, ridden an elephant and flown in a governor’s helicopter. She’s covered a national political convention and Pope John Paul II’s historic visit to Denver as well as small town festivals celebrating everything from walnuts to Glen Miller. Her work was honored by numerous organizations including the Associated Press who called a feature about a firefighter’s school "story telling genius". It was the encouragement she needed to turn from news to fiction. She’s never looked back.
Victoria claims her love of romance and journalism is to due to the influence of her favorite comic book character: Lois Lane, a terrific reporter and a great heroine who pursued Superman with an unwavering determination. And why not? He was extremely well drawn.
Victoria grew up traveling the world as an Air Force brat. Today, she lives in Omaha, Nebraska with her husband and her dogs. Victoria had two bearded collies, Sam and Louie (named from characters in one of her books). Sam (on the left), the best dog in the world for 13 ½ years, passed away in September 2010. Louie took on the position of loyal companion and did a fine job even though he doesn't understand that kitchen counter surfing is not allowed!
Now he's been joined by Reggie, also a faithful companion.
They all live happily ever after in a house under constant renovation and the accompanying parade of men in tool belts. And never ending chaos. Victoria laughs a great deal—she has to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 15, 2017
I was fine up until he blackmails her at the end. Srsly? He screwed up years earlier, she spent ten years in hell and now when she finally has a shot at a life, he will screw it up for her unless she marries him because he loves her. Since when does love mean you shackle a woman to your control. What a coprophagic slime swiller this H proves himself to be, repeatedly.
She should have lied, got his signature to win her inheritance and then arranged for an unfortunate hunting accident.
The H was a putz and should have been left at the curb like the trash he was. The h was pretty decent and I liked her, but I was avidly against them being together after his little tacky stunt at the end and that is no way to end a romance.
She should have lied, got his signature to win her inheritance and then arranged for an unfortunate hunting accident.
The H was a putz and should have been left at the curb like the trash he was. The h was pretty decent and I liked her, but I was avidly against them being together after his little tacky stunt at the end and that is no way to end a romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2010
I enjoyed this book more than The Virgin's Secret - maybe it's because much of the mystery was developed in the first of the series, but I also felt that the characters had more depth in this one. Olivia's strength of character was developed in a very unhappy marriage - we learned that in the earlier book. Here we discover how absolutely miserable it was, and why she's so determined to do whatever it takes to meet the ridiculous terms of her late husband's will. This forces her to contact Sterling, who should have been her husband ten years ago, but he deserted her in her time of need. Of course, he claimed that she deserted him - and here's a BIG SPOILER and the reason I dropped this rating a full star to a weak 4*: Sterling has hated Olivia for 10 years and felt she deserved what she got out of her marriage because of a letter he received from Olivia's father breaking off their engagement. He never attempted to check with her to see why this great love of theirs no longer existed?! He refused to read the letters she smuggled out to him?! Nope - I need a hero! Fortunately, Sterling lost some of his arrogance and rigidness of character as this story continued, but I felt his lack of action and trust ten years ago was a serious weakness that I had to work hard to overcome, and happily he did as well. Since this is a romance, we know they'll eventually get together, so I want to include this mushy piece of dialogue: "You saved me. I was lost and you have found me. Dead and you have brought me back to life", and let you decide or discover who was speaking to whom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2012
Interesting plot as well as adventurous. Plus, the new Earl of Wyldewood (the great-grandson of Alexander's characters from her book, The Perfect Wife) is stodgy, but has a hilarious fear. Well, I thought it was hilarious, anyway.
This wasn't the most exciting or brilliant story, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
This wasn't the most exciting or brilliant story, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
September 3, 2018
Nice romance and setting. I like that Sterling and Olivia travel some in here. Readers of historical romance will like this.
April 8, 2010
*Note: Read and reviewed for The Season for Romance.
Viscountess Olivia Rathbourne and Sterling Harrington were once young and hopelessly in love. Just before the announcement of their engagement, Sterling was approached by Olivia’s father with news that she no longer loved Sterling and was to marry a wealthy antiques collector instead. Heartbroken, Sterling banishes Olivia from his life…but never from his thoughts!
Olivia has been trapped in a cruel and unhappy marriage for the past ten years. She was promised to the vile Viscount Rathbourne by her father who harbored a dark secret that would be made public if he did not ‘give’ Olivia to the Viscount. She attempted to contact Sterling in the hopes that he would rescue her, but her letters went ignored.
Now, ten years later, her husband was found brutally murdered and the killer is still on the loose. Worried for her safety, Lord Newbury (Olivia’s father) visits Sterling asking for his help in protecting Olivia. Sterling, not realizing that her marriage was a sham all along, was reluctant but finally agreed. After being estranged for ten years, their initial reunion was polite yet cold and distant.
Olivia only desires two things: the first is to bed Sterling one last time and close that chapter of her life once & for all and the second is to be independent and truly free. In order for her to be independent though, she must collect the inheritance that is rightfully hers. What she did not anticipate was that even from beyond the grave her husband maintains control of her purse strings. She must fulfill three difficult tasks in order to be given her inheritance and she must seek help from Sterling to accomplish this.
I’m a bit torn as to how I feel about this book. There were some qualities that I liked and some that I didn’t like. Pros first! I found the characters likable and endearing. Once Sterling realized that letting Olivia go was his biggest mistake, he really made an effort to win her back. He vowed to no longer be the stiff, stodgy and dull Earl but rather to be charming and pleasant, which he was. Olivia no longer trusted men, and who could blame her, so she focused her energies on being strong and independent. She never expected her old feelings for Sterling to come surging back. The dynamic between these two characters was enjoyable to read.
The plot was also intriguing. Her deceased husband sends her on a scavenger hunt to collect and retrieve three ancient artifacts in order for her to receive her inheritance. The only real flaw with the plot is that these artifacts should have been nearly impossible to retrieve and they had a rather easy time of it.
As for the cons, I found the synopsis to be a bit misleading. The synopsis implies that Olivia’s ultimate goal is to get Sterling in her bed. However, in reading their story it seems that it was more about Sterling trying to win Olivia’s heart back while she tried to gain some semblance of freedom. She did attempt to get him into her bed, but her attempts seemed half-hearted and weak. My other concern with the story is that the mystery of her husband’s killer remains unsolved. I want to know “who-dun-it”.
I can’t say that Desires of a Perfect Lady will become one of my favorites, but I did enjoy the time that I spent with it.
Viscountess Olivia Rathbourne and Sterling Harrington were once young and hopelessly in love. Just before the announcement of their engagement, Sterling was approached by Olivia’s father with news that she no longer loved Sterling and was to marry a wealthy antiques collector instead. Heartbroken, Sterling banishes Olivia from his life…but never from his thoughts!
Olivia has been trapped in a cruel and unhappy marriage for the past ten years. She was promised to the vile Viscount Rathbourne by her father who harbored a dark secret that would be made public if he did not ‘give’ Olivia to the Viscount. She attempted to contact Sterling in the hopes that he would rescue her, but her letters went ignored.
Now, ten years later, her husband was found brutally murdered and the killer is still on the loose. Worried for her safety, Lord Newbury (Olivia’s father) visits Sterling asking for his help in protecting Olivia. Sterling, not realizing that her marriage was a sham all along, was reluctant but finally agreed. After being estranged for ten years, their initial reunion was polite yet cold and distant.
Olivia only desires two things: the first is to bed Sterling one last time and close that chapter of her life once & for all and the second is to be independent and truly free. In order for her to be independent though, she must collect the inheritance that is rightfully hers. What she did not anticipate was that even from beyond the grave her husband maintains control of her purse strings. She must fulfill three difficult tasks in order to be given her inheritance and she must seek help from Sterling to accomplish this.
I’m a bit torn as to how I feel about this book. There were some qualities that I liked and some that I didn’t like. Pros first! I found the characters likable and endearing. Once Sterling realized that letting Olivia go was his biggest mistake, he really made an effort to win her back. He vowed to no longer be the stiff, stodgy and dull Earl but rather to be charming and pleasant, which he was. Olivia no longer trusted men, and who could blame her, so she focused her energies on being strong and independent. She never expected her old feelings for Sterling to come surging back. The dynamic between these two characters was enjoyable to read.
The plot was also intriguing. Her deceased husband sends her on a scavenger hunt to collect and retrieve three ancient artifacts in order for her to receive her inheritance. The only real flaw with the plot is that these artifacts should have been nearly impossible to retrieve and they had a rather easy time of it.
As for the cons, I found the synopsis to be a bit misleading. The synopsis implies that Olivia’s ultimate goal is to get Sterling in her bed. However, in reading their story it seems that it was more about Sterling trying to win Olivia’s heart back while she tried to gain some semblance of freedom. She did attempt to get him into her bed, but her attempts seemed half-hearted and weak. My other concern with the story is that the mystery of her husband’s killer remains unsolved. I want to know “who-dun-it”.
I can’t say that Desires of a Perfect Lady will become one of my favorites, but I did enjoy the time that I spent with it.
September 14, 2010
Tone: Determined, Adventurous, Hopeful
Setting: England, London, Egypt, Cairo, Italy, Venice, Ships, Exotic
Characterization: Widow, Childhood sweethearts, Strong heroine, Stuffy Hero, Wounded
Language: Straight-forward
Pacing: Fast-paced
Other Elements: Spousal abuse, Antiquities, Antique collectors, Treasure hunts
First Line: "'We aren't supposed to be up here,' Sterling Harrington said in his best I-will-be-the-Earl-of-Wyldewood-one-day voice."
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. The heroine, Olivia, is not some docile maid waiting to be saved. She realized years ago when her father traded her into a violent marriage that no one could save her but herself. This experience has made her very independent and determined. The hero, who failed to save her years before, steps in now to help as much as he can, but she still uses her own cunning and makes her own decisions to drive the treasure hunt she is forced into. It is interesting to watch her struggle with her abusive husband's attempts to control her from beyond the grave and see how she manages to maintain her hard-won inner strength. I also can never resist a book set in historical Egypt during the mad rush for archeological discoveries. This location wasn't the main focus of the story, but they did visit and I enjoyed that part. I think the most interesting part is that, while the hero and heroine get their happily-ever-after, the story ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, and I am interested to see what is next in Alexader's series.
Setting: England, London, Egypt, Cairo, Italy, Venice, Ships, Exotic
Characterization: Widow, Childhood sweethearts, Strong heroine, Stuffy Hero, Wounded
Language: Straight-forward
Pacing: Fast-paced
Other Elements: Spousal abuse, Antiquities, Antique collectors, Treasure hunts
First Line: "'We aren't supposed to be up here,' Sterling Harrington said in his best I-will-be-the-Earl-of-Wyldewood-one-day voice."
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. The heroine, Olivia, is not some docile maid waiting to be saved. She realized years ago when her father traded her into a violent marriage that no one could save her but herself. This experience has made her very independent and determined. The hero, who failed to save her years before, steps in now to help as much as he can, but she still uses her own cunning and makes her own decisions to drive the treasure hunt she is forced into. It is interesting to watch her struggle with her abusive husband's attempts to control her from beyond the grave and see how she manages to maintain her hard-won inner strength. I also can never resist a book set in historical Egypt during the mad rush for archeological discoveries. This location wasn't the main focus of the story, but they did visit and I enjoyed that part. I think the most interesting part is that, while the hero and heroine get their happily-ever-after, the story ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, and I am interested to see what is next in Alexader's series.
June 24, 2011
Sterling Harrington is the oldest brother and now Earl of Wyldewood. He was in love with Olivia ten years ago and they were going to get married. Only two days after that decision she was married to someone else.
Ten years of misery between them and now she needs his help. Her husband was a mean and cruel man and she is not sad he was murdered. He has left his will in such a way though that he still has control of her. She needs to complete 3 of his collections or live on the small amount of money he has always given her.
She needs money that she does not have to get the missing pieces, and only Sterling can help her with that.
They go from Egypt to Venice and back to London.
Another great read.
Ten years of misery between them and now she needs his help. Her husband was a mean and cruel man and she is not sad he was murdered. He has left his will in such a way though that he still has control of her. She needs to complete 3 of his collections or live on the small amount of money he has always given her.
She needs money that she does not have to get the missing pieces, and only Sterling can help her with that.
They go from Egypt to Venice and back to London.
Another great read.
July 9, 2010
Awesome! Another exciting read. This is the 2nd book in the series and the main characters were Sterling, the Earl of Wyldewood and Olivia Rathborne. After her husband is murdered, she is left with a meager allowance even though she is his only heir. The condition to gaining the right to her inheritance is contingent on completing three sets of her late husband's collection of antiquities. She goes to the Earl for help even though he seemingly abandoned her 10 years prior leaving them both broken hearted. Beautiful story involving love, travel, and adventure! Backstory here was also nice involving the Earl's mother and one of his late father's best friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2010
This is the first book I have read by Victoria Alexander and I must say I'm glad I picked it up. The cover is what initially drove me to it...the colors are just so lush!! The characters are well written and the heroine is believable. She only wants to be rid of the memories of an unhappy marriage and she willing to do whatever it takes. I must say I loved Olivia Rathbourne because she is strong but not overbearing but still in a way not to sure of herself. As for Sterling Harrington he is willing to do whatever it takes to make up for lost time between the two of them!
May 6, 2010
I had a problem with this book.....what man in*love* doesnt question his soon to be bride's deciding he wasnt rich enough to marry??? Umm...especially since it was a so called love match, didnt ring true to me. Even tho the earl was suppose to be stuffy,rigid and prideful,wasnt that suppose to be AFTER she left him for someone else?? Yea...not too into this one. 1st book in series was great...this one....not so much. Maybe the next will be better....heres hoping...
June 24, 2014
Great book
October 17, 2014
One of my favorite authors. Victoria Alexander never disappoints me.
March 17, 2015
I absolutely loved this romance novel. Yes there are things that could be improved, but overall I would read this book again in a heartbeat.
December 3, 2019
Olivia (Livvie) and Sterling were in love. They planned to marry. Then Sterling is told by Livvie's father that she will marry another man. The man is wealthier than Sterling, and Livvie does not want to hear from Sterling ever again.
Ten years later, after Livvie's husband is found with his throat slit, Sterling finds that none of that was true.
Now the two of them are on a quest. In order for Livvie to inherit from her late husband, she has been tasked with finding 3 treasures to add to his collections. Once she meets that requirement, she will be a wealthy woman.
During her marriage, she was abused in many ways. She feels that in order to be free of her monster of a husband, she wants what she is due. She wants to be her own person.
Sterling has become a different man from the young man he was 10 years ago. He is honorable, kind, intelligent and able to admit his mistakes. It may take him awhile, but he eventually can admit when he is wrong. He is a really good man.
Olivia is a very strong woman. She has survived and become more powerful because of her abuse. She is intelligent, brave, and able to see Sterling for who he has become. She is a good woman who can see a new life ahead of her.
I enjoyed this book. I enjoy Miss Alexander's writing.
The story of Olivia, Sterling, family, friends and people they meet as they are on their quest is one of adventure.
I am disappointed that there are a few unanswered questions. I have hope that there will be a third book which answers those questions for me. There is no cliff hanger, this is a very complete story of two people who have lost one another and ultimately find one another again.
Ms Alexander writes a very good story filled with characters who draw one into their lives. All in all, a fun story.
Ten years later, after Livvie's husband is found with his throat slit, Sterling finds that none of that was true.
Now the two of them are on a quest. In order for Livvie to inherit from her late husband, she has been tasked with finding 3 treasures to add to his collections. Once she meets that requirement, she will be a wealthy woman.
During her marriage, she was abused in many ways. She feels that in order to be free of her monster of a husband, she wants what she is due. She wants to be her own person.
Sterling has become a different man from the young man he was 10 years ago. He is honorable, kind, intelligent and able to admit his mistakes. It may take him awhile, but he eventually can admit when he is wrong. He is a really good man.
Olivia is a very strong woman. She has survived and become more powerful because of her abuse. She is intelligent, brave, and able to see Sterling for who he has become. She is a good woman who can see a new life ahead of her.
I enjoyed this book. I enjoy Miss Alexander's writing.
The story of Olivia, Sterling, family, friends and people they meet as they are on their quest is one of adventure.
I am disappointed that there are a few unanswered questions. I have hope that there will be a third book which answers those questions for me. There is no cliff hanger, this is a very complete story of two people who have lost one another and ultimately find one another again.
Ms Alexander writes a very good story filled with characters who draw one into their lives. All in all, a fun story.
December 2, 2024
I really wanted to love this one... but it had so much going on I'm not sure it all came together... so many pieces were just glossed over- Olivia's marriage and recovery from abuse, her "list" which was not really thought out and barely a pretext for the story, Sterling's quick shedding of his seriousness and admittance of his love, holding onto letter for 10 years....
There was a lot that was great, but I also felt like it was rushed. Also, there are plot points that are still open and I don't think there are any more books in the series, which leaves me a bit disappointed.
There was a lot that was great, but I also felt like it was rushed. Also, there are plot points that are still open and I don't think there are any more books in the series, which leaves me a bit disappointed.
June 30, 2019
Enjoyable Reading
Victoria Alexander is one of my favorite authors and I always enjoy reading her books, including this one. I liked the characters in this book. I am always wondering how Victoria Alexander comes up with all the twists and turns in her stories. I gave the book four stars as there were some things left unexplained or unsolved in this book and I'm not including the epilogue in that. Will they come up in a future book?
Victoria Alexander is one of my favorite authors and I always enjoy reading her books, including this one. I liked the characters in this book. I am always wondering how Victoria Alexander comes up with all the twists and turns in her stories. I gave the book four stars as there were some things left unexplained or unsolved in this book and I'm not including the epilogue in that. Will they come up in a future book?
August 28, 2024
3,5 sterren
Gelezen als Candlelight pocket met de titel “Avontuur voor twee”
Ik vond fit echt een heel leuk verhaal. Alleen het einde was…hoe zal ik het zeggen… gewoon flauw. Daar had ik meer van verwacht gezien de rest van het verhaal.
Daarom afronding naar 3 sterren, anders waren het er 4 geworden.
Gelezen als Candlelight pocket met de titel “Avontuur voor twee”
Ik vond fit echt een heel leuk verhaal. Alleen het einde was…hoe zal ik het zeggen… gewoon flauw. Daar had ik meer van verwacht gezien de rest van het verhaal.
Daarom afronding naar 3 sterren, anders waren het er 4 geworden.
March 3, 2019
This is a good solid story and fun to read! Very refreshing characters who are not whiny and too full of themselves. Great adventures, humor, tension and love! Great series so far!
May 21, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love the characters and the plot of this story. I really can't wait to read Quinton' s tale of woe . Alexander knocks it out of the park every time.
January 28, 2022
The beginning is very strong but it falls apart quickly and there’s too much going on
January 19, 2023
Overall this was a good romance.However there was an incident about midway thu that was very farfetched and didn't really add much to the story.
December 21, 2023
Hmmm . . . transformation from stuffy, dull & stodgy to adventurous, amorous & fun - a great makeover for our hero! Loved the interplay, unspoken words & glances that spoke volumes.
April 1, 2024
I enjoyed this book! Loved the adventure and mystery, along with romance.
May 1, 2025
A well written, fun story of love lost and found.
February 24, 2017
Lady Olivia Rathbourne had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood. Now a decade later that very same man is standing on her doorstep vowing to save her.
The story overall was entertaining if not particularly my cup of tea. I did not really like Olivia in the last book but she grew more of a spine in this one.
The story overall was entertaining if not particularly my cup of tea. I did not really like Olivia in the last book but she grew more of a spine in this one.
April 5, 2010
“Desires of a Perfect Lady” (Historical, Avon, 384 pages, $7.99), by Victoria Alexander: The second book in Victoria Alexander's latest series, “Desires of a Perfect Lady” follows Sterling Harrington, Earl of Wyldewood, and Olivia Rathbourne, who fell in love during her first season. A wedding appeared imminent until Olivia’s father, Lord Newbury, forced her to marry the cruel Viscount Rathbourne instead.
Sterling was so hurt by Olivia’s apparent change of heart that he refused to read her letters explaining her predicament as well as her written pleas to be rescued. Rathbourne, who believed Olivia would make the perfect acquisition, had blackmailed her father. Newbury, now estranged from his daughter, pleads with Sterling to check on Olivia after Rathbourne is found murdered. Her life may also be in danger.
With the abusive Rathbourne dead, Olivia can finally take control of her life. But, she discovers her late husband’s will has an unusual stipulation. In order to have full access to his estate, Olivia must complete three of her husband’s antiquity collections, a task considered impossible – even for the most experienced antique hunter.
Sterling agrees to accompany Olivia on her quest, which takes them to Egypt and Italy. Also along for the ride are junior solicitor Josiah Cadwallender, who competes for Olivia’s affections, and Sterling’s meddling mother Millicent.
Sterling learns to put aside his staid and stodgy earl persona in order to win back his love’s heart. Olivia, who displays ingenuity in obtaining the required artifacts, regains her independent spirit.
“Desires of a Perfect Lady” is a feel-good love story that takes place amid an adventurous treasure hunt. Alexander adds some color with running threads about Sterling’s fear of Egyptian snakes, Olivia’s handling of an Italian rogue, and a secondary romance between the widowed Millicent and antiquities collector, and old friend, Sir Lawrence Willoughby.
Although this installment stands on its own, it is worth considering Alexander’s earlier, “The Virgin’s Secret,” which also features the Harrington family.
posted on RomancenovelNews.com
Sterling was so hurt by Olivia’s apparent change of heart that he refused to read her letters explaining her predicament as well as her written pleas to be rescued. Rathbourne, who believed Olivia would make the perfect acquisition, had blackmailed her father. Newbury, now estranged from his daughter, pleads with Sterling to check on Olivia after Rathbourne is found murdered. Her life may also be in danger.
With the abusive Rathbourne dead, Olivia can finally take control of her life. But, she discovers her late husband’s will has an unusual stipulation. In order to have full access to his estate, Olivia must complete three of her husband’s antiquity collections, a task considered impossible – even for the most experienced antique hunter.
Sterling agrees to accompany Olivia on her quest, which takes them to Egypt and Italy. Also along for the ride are junior solicitor Josiah Cadwallender, who competes for Olivia’s affections, and Sterling’s meddling mother Millicent.
Sterling learns to put aside his staid and stodgy earl persona in order to win back his love’s heart. Olivia, who displays ingenuity in obtaining the required artifacts, regains her independent spirit.
“Desires of a Perfect Lady” is a feel-good love story that takes place amid an adventurous treasure hunt. Alexander adds some color with running threads about Sterling’s fear of Egyptian snakes, Olivia’s handling of an Italian rogue, and a secondary romance between the widowed Millicent and antiquities collector, and old friend, Sir Lawrence Willoughby.
Although this installment stands on its own, it is worth considering Alexander’s earlier, “The Virgin’s Secret,” which also features the Harrington family.
posted on RomancenovelNews.com
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January 24, 2015 Product Description
A secret list of the desires of Lady Olivia Rathbourne:
Disregard convention Follow my hearte="1" class="bucketDivider" style="clear:both" /> Editorial Reviews Product DescriptionA secret list of the desires of Lady Olivia Rathbourne:
1. Disregard convention2. Follow my heart3. Bed the Earl of Wyldewood
A decade ago, Olivia had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood, only to have happiness stolen from her before his ring could be placed upon her finger. Now he stands before her, as proud and arrogant and handsome as ever, vowing to rescue her. Well, he's got some nerve urning up after all these years. Where was he when she needed him?
As for the earl, scandal has never touched him nor has impropriety ever besmirched his name. But his penchant for doing the expected does have his family calling him, well, dull. Isn't it time to flaunt society's conventions and do what he's always wanted? And first on his list: Olivia in his bed—with or without a wedding.
About the Authorand has never looked back. Victoria grew up traveling the country as an Air Force brat and is now settled in Omaha, Nebraska, with her husband, two teenaged children, and a bearded collie named Sam. She firmly believes housework is a four-letter word, there are no calories in anything eaten standing up, procrastination is an art form, and it's never too soon to panic.
Product Details* **Mass Market Paperback:** 384 pages* **Publisher:** Avon; Original edition (March 30, 2010)* **Language:** English* **ISBN-10:** 0061449482* **ISBN-13:** 978-0061449482* ** Product Dimensions: ** 6.9 x 4.3 x 1.1 inches * **Shipping Weight:** 6.4 ounces (* **Average Customer Review:**
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July 5, 2011
Ten years ago a Big Misunderstanding had lovers Olivia, Lady Rathbourne, and Sterling Harrington, the Earl of Wyldwood, parting. She married a man who saw her as a possession and abused her both mentally and physically. He married a perfectly suitable woman who never held his heart and actually soon died. But it's been ten years and her husband has just been murdered (she is not a suspect) so her father is concerned for her welfare even though he is the one who caused the Big Misunderstanding. Sterling, finally realizing that maybe his pride prevented him from marrying the woman of his dreams. Of course, he has to break out of the role of the stuffy earl to help rescue her now, but Olivia doesn't particularly want to be rescued.
Her late husband's will stipulates that she has to complete three of his extensive collections before she can inherit his estate. She needs money to do this so when Sterling tries to come to her aid, she finagles money out of him even if she has to put up with his "helping" presence on her mission.
Enjoyed the book. Wish that her list (a compilation she put together while her husband was alive of all of the things she wanted to do when he was dead) had been more developed than just headers at the front of chapters.
Her late husband's will stipulates that she has to complete three of his extensive collections before she can inherit his estate. She needs money to do this so when Sterling tries to come to her aid, she finagles money out of him even if she has to put up with his "helping" presence on her mission.
Enjoyed the book. Wish that her list (a compilation she put together while her husband was alive of all of the things she wanted to do when he was dead) had been more developed than just headers at the front of chapters.
March 24, 2012
A secret list of the desires of Lady Olivia Rathbourne:
Disregard convention
Follow my heart
Bed the Earl of Wyldewood
A decade ago, Olivia had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood, only to have happiness stolen from her before his ring could be placed upon her finger. Now he stands before her, as proud and arrogant and handsome as ever, vowing to rescue her. Well, he's got some nerve urning up after all these years. Where was he when she needed him?
As for the earl, scandal has never touched him nor has impropriety ever besmirched his name. But his penchant for doing the expected does have his family calling him, well, dull. Isn't it time to flaunt society's conventions and do what he's always wanted? And first on his list: Olivia in his bed—with or without a wedding.
I am a big Victoria Alexander fan, but this was not one of my favorite books. The characters are likeable and are well developed, but the plot twists seem a bit forced.
Disregard convention
Follow my heart
Bed the Earl of Wyldewood
A decade ago, Olivia had expected to marry the Earl of Wyldewood, only to have happiness stolen from her before his ring could be placed upon her finger. Now he stands before her, as proud and arrogant and handsome as ever, vowing to rescue her. Well, he's got some nerve urning up after all these years. Where was he when she needed him?
As for the earl, scandal has never touched him nor has impropriety ever besmirched his name. But his penchant for doing the expected does have his family calling him, well, dull. Isn't it time to flaunt society's conventions and do what he's always wanted? And first on his list: Olivia in his bed—with or without a wedding.
I am a big Victoria Alexander fan, but this was not one of my favorite books. The characters are likeable and are well developed, but the plot twists seem a bit forced.
May 27, 2013
I enjoyed this second entry in the Harrington brothers series, looking forward to number three. This time, the eldest brother, the Earl of Wyldewood, has his second chance at romance. His partner is a former almost fiancee who married another man under duress, unbeknownst to the earl.
The best part is the Victorian treasure quest. Olivia, in order to claim her inheritance from her late unlamented husband, must complete three collections. She is forced to ask for help from Sterling, the Earl of Wyldewood, in order to complete her quest. After traveling to Egypt and Venice and then returning to England, they manage despite many obstacles to claim Olivia's inheritance and then, well, happily ever after.
I loved the depiction of Venice and Egypt. Only one brother is now unmarried, Quint, the rascal of the family. The epilogue mentions two partners, somehow connected with the Antiquities Society, and refers to their search for Ambropia, thereby connecting the trilogy together.
The best part is the Victorian treasure quest. Olivia, in order to claim her inheritance from her late unlamented husband, must complete three collections. She is forced to ask for help from Sterling, the Earl of Wyldewood, in order to complete her quest. After traveling to Egypt and Venice and then returning to England, they manage despite many obstacles to claim Olivia's inheritance and then, well, happily ever after.
I loved the depiction of Venice and Egypt. Only one brother is now unmarried, Quint, the rascal of the family. The epilogue mentions two partners, somehow connected with the Antiquities Society, and refers to their search for Ambropia, thereby connecting the trilogy together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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