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Reluctant Brides #2
The Viscount Can Wait
After five years away, Lady Eliza Cartwick isn't relishing returning to the whirl of the London season. But the young widow knows to ensure the best future for herself and her young daughter, Rosa, she must remarry. If only Lord Evanston, the dashing rogue who has haunted her dreams since she was sixteen, didn't insist on distracting her with his searing looks and lingering touches at the most inconvenient times . . .
Thomas, Lord Evanston, has wanted Eliza since her engagement ball all those years ago. His best friend's sister has constantly been out of reach . . . until now. The forbidden has always tempted him, but when Thomas realizes he wants the object of his fantasies for far more than a dalliance, he must convince her that he's not just a rake; he's a viscount who's worth the wait.
Contains mature themes.
Thomas, Lord Evanston, has wanted Eliza since her engagement ball all those years ago. His best friend's sister has constantly been out of reach . . . until now. The forbidden has always tempted him, but when Thomas realizes he wants the object of his fantasies for far more than a dalliance, he must convince her that he's not just a rake; he's a viscount who's worth the wait.
Contains mature themes.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 23, 2018
196 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Marie Tremayne
4 books111 followersMarie Tremayne graduated from the University of Washington with a B.A. in English Language and Literature. While there, a copy of Pride and Prejudice ended up changing her life, and she decided to study the great books of the Regency and Victorian eras. Now she enjoys writing her own tales set in the historical period she loves.
Marie lives with her family in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Marie lives with her family in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 16, 2018
I made it to 62% before DNFing, so while I normally don't give DNFs a star rating or review, I'm making an exception.
Maybe this would have flown under my radar with a 2.5 or 3 star review if the world wasn't where it's at right now, but in a world where the whole disgusting mess with Kavanaugh just happened, this book is just whole bunches of NOPE. The "hero" kisses the heroine (who is 16 at the time) on the eve of her engagement announcement (to another man), and not even because he particularly is driven to but because she's there and he finally realizes she's a woman, and she's too shocked to say no or push him away. Afterwards he just sort of shrugs and walks away from her.
THEN, five years later when she's a widow and looking for a husband and he decided he wants to tap that before she gets married again (and heck, maybe after she's married, if she'll go for it). Again, not because he has any particular feeling for her, but he thinks she's hot. Of course the author also sprinkles little moments of decency around too, like he's nice to her daughter and does some random sort of nice things sometimes? Like doing nice things makes it okay to also be a total asshole and essentially sexually assault her? And then he essentially forces himself on her and she mentions bringing up the kiss on the eve of her engagement announcement to her brother (and the "hero's" best friend) he basically tells her "I didn't hear you complaining about it then." And she thinks back and remembers that she didn't tell him no out loud, because she was too shocked. And that was just one of many points where it just got way too real and rape-y for me and I almost DNF'd, but kept reading because I did enjoy the first book in this series, and kept hoping it would get better, because there were those little glimpses into what was supposed to be the better, kinder nature of the "hero." But to be honest, he doesn't show any real interest in or feeling for the heroine besides a general "she's hot and I want to have sex with her" until halfway into the book, where all of a sudden he's like "oh shit, actually I am in love with her, for some reason." AND THEY'RE SUPPOSEDLY FRIENDS. What?
And while Eliza does want Thomas and is attracted to him, she is fighting that attraction and as far as Thomas knows she is not interested. There are several parts where he specifically is riled up and excited by her struggling and resisting him and then eventually giving in. GROSS AND NOT OKAY
LISTEN UP, ROMANCE AUTHORS OF TODAY. Maybe that shit used to fly in romance novels of yore. Today is a new day and age, and if anybody is ripping bodices it better be some consensual bodice ripping and not because the lady is struggling to get away. YOU FEEL ME?
I do not recommend this book, because the "hero" is a rapey creepy gross garbage-human. I can't speak to how it ends because I had to stop reading at a little over halfway through the book. It's possible he "redeems" himself, but frankly I'm not hear for the story about the penis-led hero redemption story.
Edited to add: If you're reading this, Marie Tremayne - I'm sorry for the harsh tone, I very much love you, and I still am looking forward to reading more of your books. I feel like this was a major miss, and a step backwards for Lady in Waiting, but I am still totally here for Waiting for a Rogue and still hoping for awesome things from you in future books. Again, I probably wouldn't have had such a violent reaction to this book if this September/October 2018 hadn't been such a total shit-show, so timing is everything too. All of the author love, never stop writing.
Maybe this would have flown under my radar with a 2.5 or 3 star review if the world wasn't where it's at right now, but in a world where the whole disgusting mess with Kavanaugh just happened, this book is just whole bunches of NOPE. The "hero" kisses the heroine (who is 16 at the time) on the eve of her engagement announcement (to another man), and not even because he particularly is driven to but because she's there and he finally realizes she's a woman, and she's too shocked to say no or push him away. Afterwards he just sort of shrugs and walks away from her.
THEN, five years later when she's a widow and looking for a husband and he decided he wants to tap that before she gets married again (and heck, maybe after she's married, if she'll go for it). Again, not because he has any particular feeling for her, but he thinks she's hot. Of course the author also sprinkles little moments of decency around too, like he's nice to her daughter and does some random sort of nice things sometimes? Like doing nice things makes it okay to also be a total asshole and essentially sexually assault her? And then he essentially forces himself on her and she mentions bringing up the kiss on the eve of her engagement announcement to her brother (and the "hero's" best friend) he basically tells her "I didn't hear you complaining about it then." And she thinks back and remembers that she didn't tell him no out loud, because she was too shocked. And that was just one of many points where it just got way too real and rape-y for me and I almost DNF'd, but kept reading because I did enjoy the first book in this series, and kept hoping it would get better, because there were those little glimpses into what was supposed to be the better, kinder nature of the "hero." But to be honest, he doesn't show any real interest in or feeling for the heroine besides a general "she's hot and I want to have sex with her" until halfway into the book, where all of a sudden he's like "oh shit, actually I am in love with her, for some reason." AND THEY'RE SUPPOSEDLY FRIENDS. What?
And while Eliza does want Thomas and is attracted to him, she is fighting that attraction and as far as Thomas knows she is not interested. There are several parts where he specifically is riled up and excited by her struggling and resisting him and then eventually giving in. GROSS AND NOT OKAY
LISTEN UP, ROMANCE AUTHORS OF TODAY. Maybe that shit used to fly in romance novels of yore. Today is a new day and age, and if anybody is ripping bodices it better be some consensual bodice ripping and not because the lady is struggling to get away. YOU FEEL ME?
I do not recommend this book, because the "hero" is a rapey creepy gross garbage-human. I can't speak to how it ends because I had to stop reading at a little over halfway through the book. It's possible he "redeems" himself, but frankly I'm not hear for the story about the penis-led hero redemption story.
Edited to add: If you're reading this, Marie Tremayne - I'm sorry for the harsh tone, I very much love you, and I still am looking forward to reading more of your books. I feel like this was a major miss, and a step backwards for Lady in Waiting, but I am still totally here for Waiting for a Rogue and still hoping for awesome things from you in future books. Again, I probably wouldn't have had such a violent reaction to this book if this September/October 2018 hadn't been such a total shit-show, so timing is everything too. All of the author love, never stop writing.
September 2, 2019
Lady Eliza Cartwick is a young widow with a 4-year-old daughter, due to the world she lives in she feels that in order to secure her daughter’s future and give her the life she deserves she needs to re-marry, and so she resolves herself to dip her toes back into society and the London season. What she doesn’t expect is the attention she gains of her brother’s best friend, a man she has known since childhood – Rake, Lord Thomas Evanston, who is well known for bedding widows. He appears to delight in pushing her buttons, and the banter was amusing although it lacked a level of energy and heat that would have had me riveted.
Plot wise, the book was ok, it just lacked the passion and depth I was expecting. At times it felt like there was a lot of drama for the sake of drama. At times the push and pull had me sighing in frustration.
I didn’t like Thomas kissing 16-year-old Eliza simply because he realised, she was a woman, the author should have framed the kiss and the reason for it differently, especially give the info the author gives later in the book on Thomas’s reaction to Eliza’s labour during her first marriage.
There were moments where Thomas was a bit of a cad and had me wrinkling my nose in some displeasure, luckily the author then gave me moments where he was sweet and/or charming. I loved little Rosa and how the Viscount was with her – that scene near the start where he dances with her – adorable. She is a little ray of four-year-old sunshine. However, the author didn’t include her in as many scenes as she should have, and Rosa’s understanding of adult conversation and the way she spoke made her seem far older than 4.
There were parts of this book that I really, really liked, but it never reached that moment that had me sinking into my sofa in delight, absorbed in what was occurring.
Plot wise, the book was ok, it just lacked the passion and depth I was expecting. At times it felt like there was a lot of drama for the sake of drama. At times the push and pull had me sighing in frustration.
I didn’t like Thomas kissing 16-year-old Eliza simply because he realised, she was a woman, the author should have framed the kiss and the reason for it differently, especially give the info the author gives later in the book on Thomas’s reaction to Eliza’s labour during her first marriage.
There were moments where Thomas was a bit of a cad and had me wrinkling my nose in some displeasure, luckily the author then gave me moments where he was sweet and/or charming. I loved little Rosa and how the Viscount was with her – that scene near the start where he dances with her – adorable. She is a little ray of four-year-old sunshine. However, the author didn’t include her in as many scenes as she should have, and Rosa’s understanding of adult conversation and the way she spoke made her seem far older than 4.
There were parts of this book that I really, really liked, but it never reached that moment that had me sinking into my sofa in delight, absorbed in what was occurring.
October 8, 2018
3.5 stars
I absolutely loved this premise and was excited at the idea of finding a new series to start.
I really liked Eliza and Thomas. She’s sweet and maybe a little feisty and he loves pushing her buttons. I enjoyed their history and friendship and the banter. There are a few other characters, but no one stole the scene like Eliza’s daughter did.
Plot wise, it was okay. There was a lot of drama for the sake of drama. All of this could have been fixed with a bit of conversation {instead of incessant inner monologues}, especially when there were a minimum of two people who knew about their feelings for each other. The monotony of the push and pull got a bit old and honestly, I felt bad that Eliza was ignoring everything.
Overall, it was a decent storyline with characters I could easily root for. I definitely wanted more from the ending, but I’m eager to see who is going to be in the next book.
**Huge thanks to Avon for providing the arc free of charge**
I absolutely loved this premise and was excited at the idea of finding a new series to start.
I really liked Eliza and Thomas. She’s sweet and maybe a little feisty and he loves pushing her buttons. I enjoyed their history and friendship and the banter. There are a few other characters, but no one stole the scene like Eliza’s daughter did.
Plot wise, it was okay. There was a lot of drama for the sake of drama. All of this could have been fixed with a bit of conversation {instead of incessant inner monologues}, especially when there were a minimum of two people who knew about their feelings for each other. The monotony of the push and pull got a bit old and honestly, I felt bad that Eliza was ignoring everything.
Overall, it was a decent storyline with characters I could easily root for. I definitely wanted more from the ending, but I’m eager to see who is going to be in the next book.
**Huge thanks to Avon for providing the arc free of charge**
October 22, 2018
This was just too easy to put to the side. I was conflicted with a few of the events that took place within the pages. I worked to look past them and was drawn back to the current events of today. I am aware that during the time period of this romance that things took place differently, but I am having just a bit of a hard time separating then and now.
The writing was good, the character development was good, the originality of the read was just a bit too close to events that are not so pleasant. the connection between the two main characters was there but at what cost to the young impressionable mind of a 16 year old girl. Then to just be wanted for what lies beneath her skirts. She's a widow now so this should all be okay. This was not quite the direction I was looking for when I began this read that took me over three weeks to finish reading. I found no real or perceived intellectual depth to this read.
The writing was good, the character development was good, the originality of the read was just a bit too close to events that are not so pleasant. the connection between the two main characters was there but at what cost to the young impressionable mind of a 16 year old girl. Then to just be wanted for what lies beneath her skirts. She's a widow now so this should all be okay. This was not quite the direction I was looking for when I began this read that took me over three weeks to finish reading. I found no real or perceived intellectual depth to this read.
September 1, 2019
I liked the dynamics and teasing between Thomas and Eliza and could see how integrated the bonds of friendship and feelings bound the two together. Thomas’s backwards chase of Eliza had moments of amusement and poignancy, and no denying these two had chemistry! Even when they were in denial with one other, it was obvious to everyone else there was more then meets the eye. I especially loved how Thomas was with Eliza’s daughter, Rosa. She may have spoken beyond her years, but Rosa’s antics and innocent joy kept me smiling whenever she had page time!
Thomas and Eliza’s story was a mix of drama, second chances, and finally having the right time. There’s some push and pull, confusing feelings, and a wild ride to an HEA, but I enjoyed the story and am curious to see how Eliza’s friend, Caroline’s tale will go!
Thomas and Eliza’s story was a mix of drama, second chances, and finally having the right time. There’s some push and pull, confusing feelings, and a wild ride to an HEA, but I enjoyed the story and am curious to see how Eliza’s friend, Caroline’s tale will go!
October 12, 2018
2.5 stars rounded up because there was an epilogue.
Eliza is 16 when her father arranges her marriage to Reginald Cartwick. On the night of her betrothal, Thomas, Viscount Evanston kisses her. Thomas is her brother's best friend and a huge rake. While she will never admit it, she has always had tender feelings for him.
Five years later, Eliza is widowed with a young daughter. Her mourning is done and she needs to remarry as her husband's heir is due to arrive from America and she has moved to her brother's dower house. She decides to go to London for the season and Thomas will be there. Her brother warns Thomas to stay away from her. Eliza is attracted to Thomas, but he is completely unsuitable.
During their time in London, Eliza and Thomas seem to play a game of push and pull - he is jealous and flaunts his former mistress, which makes her jealous, she confronts him and accuses him of interfering with her suitors. Thomas has finally realized that he wants Eliza for his own, and he tries to court her and she shuts him down. But when her friend Caroline needs help, it is Thomas she turns to for assistance. But his aid comes at a price, he asks her not to accept any marriage offers until she returns to Kent.
She returns home and Thomas steps up his pursuit. Again she rebuffs him. Clara and Caroline decide that Thomas is worthy of Eliza and conspire to help them. But things do not go as planned and Thomas is again rejected, this time by William.
Heartbroken, Thomas returns to London and is dealt a blow by his scorned former mistress. Eliza finally decides that it is Thomas she loves and with her brother's blessing set out to make things right, but when she gets to London, she realizes that she may have waited too long.
I was really looking forward to this book and am sorry to say, I was disappointed. The author failed to show me why Thomas was so "unsuitable" - yes, he was a rake, but he was not married or betrothed, he didn't gamble away his fortune, didn't force women to his bed, took care of his estates and was always ready to help William whenever asked - so I really didn't see why William and Eliza kept harping that he was not respectable and completely unsuitable. That along with the game of push and pull, making each other jealous and her running hot and cold, just became tedious - another reviewer nailed it by saying there was a lot of drama for drama's sake in this book - that is it exactly, it wasn't horrible, just repetitive and contrived.
This is the second book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone and while I didn't really care for this story, I will probably read the next book in the series.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
Eliza is 16 when her father arranges her marriage to Reginald Cartwick. On the night of her betrothal, Thomas, Viscount Evanston kisses her. Thomas is her brother's best friend and a huge rake. While she will never admit it, she has always had tender feelings for him.
Five years later, Eliza is widowed with a young daughter. Her mourning is done and she needs to remarry as her husband's heir is due to arrive from America and she has moved to her brother's dower house. She decides to go to London for the season and Thomas will be there. Her brother warns Thomas to stay away from her. Eliza is attracted to Thomas, but he is completely unsuitable.
During their time in London, Eliza and Thomas seem to play a game of push and pull - he is jealous and flaunts his former mistress, which makes her jealous, she confronts him and accuses him of interfering with her suitors. Thomas has finally realized that he wants Eliza for his own, and he tries to court her and she shuts him down. But when her friend Caroline needs help, it is Thomas she turns to for assistance. But his aid comes at a price, he asks her not to accept any marriage offers until she returns to Kent.
She returns home and Thomas steps up his pursuit. Again she rebuffs him. Clara and Caroline decide that Thomas is worthy of Eliza and conspire to help them. But things do not go as planned and Thomas is again rejected, this time by William.
Heartbroken, Thomas returns to London and is dealt a blow by his scorned former mistress. Eliza finally decides that it is Thomas she loves and with her brother's blessing set out to make things right, but when she gets to London, she realizes that she may have waited too long.
I was really looking forward to this book and am sorry to say, I was disappointed. The author failed to show me why Thomas was so "unsuitable" - yes, he was a rake, but he was not married or betrothed, he didn't gamble away his fortune, didn't force women to his bed, took care of his estates and was always ready to help William whenever asked - so I really didn't see why William and Eliza kept harping that he was not respectable and completely unsuitable. That along with the game of push and pull, making each other jealous and her running hot and cold, just became tedious - another reviewer nailed it by saying there was a lot of drama for drama's sake in this book - that is it exactly, it wasn't horrible, just repetitive and contrived.
This is the second book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone and while I didn't really care for this story, I will probably read the next book in the series.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
October 19, 2018
The Viscount Can Wait is the second book in the Reluctant Brides series by Marie Tremayne. Although part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone.
Lady Eliza Cartwick is a young widow with a 4-year-old daughter. She knows that in order to give her the life she deserves she needs to re-marry. With that in mind, she heads off to London for the season. It's not something she ever thought she would have to do again, but needs must.
When Eliza was 16 and newly engaged her family held a ball to make the announcement. Before making her way to the ballroom Thomas, a good friend to both her and her brother ends up kissing her. Why he kissed her she couldn't understand, especially as she knows he is a rogue and it was the night of her engagement ball. She went ahead to marry her betrothed and Thomas carried on his life as a rake making quite a reputation for himself.
Now years later with Eliza heading to London in search of a husband Thomas can't help but think now would be the perfect time for him to finally be able to woo her. He's never been able to forget their kiss and he has wanted her ever since. But does he just want her in his bed, or could his feelings run deeper than that? That is the question that Eliza finds herself asking when she realises that he is paying more attention to her than ever and seems to be sabotaging her finding somebody to marry.
The more time that Thomas spends with Eliza the more he too questions exactly what he wants from Eliza and what he is willing to offer her. There are obstacles to overcome, not least Eliza's brother forbidding him to go anywhere near her with more than friendship in mind.
This was a really wonderful story about two people who perhaps should have been together many years ago finally getting their chance now. I enjoyed how they both not only learned more about each other, seeing traits that perhaps they never noticed or paid attention to before, but they learned more about themselves too. The other characters in the book, from friends and family of Eliza and Thomas to spurned mistresses were really well thought out and I loved their part in our couple's lives and romance.
My only qualm with the story is that Rosa, Eliza's daughter is 4 years old, but her conversation and understanding of adult's conversation made me think that she was older than that. Closer to 10 perhaps. Other than that the book was great and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Lady Eliza Cartwick is a young widow with a 4-year-old daughter. She knows that in order to give her the life she deserves she needs to re-marry. With that in mind, she heads off to London for the season. It's not something she ever thought she would have to do again, but needs must.
When Eliza was 16 and newly engaged her family held a ball to make the announcement. Before making her way to the ballroom Thomas, a good friend to both her and her brother ends up kissing her. Why he kissed her she couldn't understand, especially as she knows he is a rogue and it was the night of her engagement ball. She went ahead to marry her betrothed and Thomas carried on his life as a rake making quite a reputation for himself.
Now years later with Eliza heading to London in search of a husband Thomas can't help but think now would be the perfect time for him to finally be able to woo her. He's never been able to forget their kiss and he has wanted her ever since. But does he just want her in his bed, or could his feelings run deeper than that? That is the question that Eliza finds herself asking when she realises that he is paying more attention to her than ever and seems to be sabotaging her finding somebody to marry.
The more time that Thomas spends with Eliza the more he too questions exactly what he wants from Eliza and what he is willing to offer her. There are obstacles to overcome, not least Eliza's brother forbidding him to go anywhere near her with more than friendship in mind.
This was a really wonderful story about two people who perhaps should have been together many years ago finally getting their chance now. I enjoyed how they both not only learned more about each other, seeing traits that perhaps they never noticed or paid attention to before, but they learned more about themselves too. The other characters in the book, from friends and family of Eliza and Thomas to spurned mistresses were really well thought out and I loved their part in our couple's lives and romance.
My only qualm with the story is that Rosa, Eliza's daughter is 4 years old, but her conversation and understanding of adult's conversation made me think that she was older than that. Closer to 10 perhaps. Other than that the book was great and I look forward to reading the other books in the series.
October 20, 2018
The Viscount Can Wait by Marie Tremayne is book Two in the Reluctant Brides series. This is the story of Thomas, Lord Evanston and Eliza Cartwick. I have read the previous book, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Eliza and Thomas shared a kiss on the night of her engagement ball that neither really could forget. But Eliza went forward with her marriage and Thomas went on to become a ladies man. Now in the preset day Eliza is a widower with a young daughter and has to move forward with marring again. Although she doesn't really want to marry she knows it is the best thing for her daughter's future. Thomas feels it is his time to have his desires for Eliza to play out but the more he is around her the more he thinks that his feelings might be more permanent...but can Eliza understand that?
Enjoyed their story.
Eliza and Thomas shared a kiss on the night of her engagement ball that neither really could forget. But Eliza went forward with her marriage and Thomas went on to become a ladies man. Now in the preset day Eliza is a widower with a young daughter and has to move forward with marring again. Although she doesn't really want to marry she knows it is the best thing for her daughter's future. Thomas feels it is his time to have his desires for Eliza to play out but the more he is around her the more he thinks that his feelings might be more permanent...but can Eliza understand that?
Enjoyed their story.
October 2, 2019
Eliza Cartwick became a wife and a mother when she was very young. An arranged marriage (fortunately, to a good man) at sixteen and now a widow at 21, Eliza never forgot that her brother's best friend kissed her, and acted as if it was a joke, the night of her engagement party. Lord Evanston inherited the title young and instead of letting it transform him into a serious man, he continued to play the cocky rake. Might it be why he never realized before that his attraction to Eliza is more than just an other conquest and not just about the way she look? Will it be too late for Thomas to prove his eligibility for the role and his love for her when he realized that she's searching for a new companion for herself and a new father for her little girl ?
I regret to say this story didn't quite work for me. There's two reasons for that. I'm not a fan of the push and pull in romance and Eliza and Thomas had so much of it. I was not a fan of the hero either. I didn't like that he was rude to the servants and how he act like an insensible man for the good majority of the book. It probably explain why I had trouble feeling the chemistry between him and Eliza. But I enjoyed the fact the servants were still a part of the story and helped for the HEA. And little Rosa was cute as a button.
I'm curious about Caroline. She's Eliza's friend and she had a great presence in this book. I'm glad her story is next.
I regret to say this story didn't quite work for me. There's two reasons for that. I'm not a fan of the push and pull in romance and Eliza and Thomas had so much of it. I was not a fan of the hero either. I didn't like that he was rude to the servants and how he act like an insensible man for the good majority of the book. It probably explain why I had trouble feeling the chemistry between him and Eliza. But I enjoyed the fact the servants were still a part of the story and helped for the HEA. And little Rosa was cute as a button.
I'm curious about Caroline. She's Eliza's friend and she had a great presence in this book. I'm glad her story is next.
November 11, 2018
3.5/5
I recently read and enjoyed Marie Tremayne's debut novel, Lady in Waiting, and was eager to have found a new historical romance author whose writing I liked. The Viscount Can Wait is the second book in the Reluctant Brides series and while I can't say that I enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed the first book, it was still a good historical romance read and has solidified Marie Tremayne as an author I'm excited to see develop more.
I have not seen this a lot in the historical romance novels that I have read, but it was nice to see a single mother as the heroine of The Viscount Can Wait. Eliza and her 4-year old daughter are back in the midst of the London season, in search of a husband for herself so that she can better provide for her child. I liked Eliza's voice. I thought she was an interesting character who seemed to know what she wanted and hardly ever strayed from her goals. In that age and time, it wasn't easy for widowed women to go out in society again, but she did it all with her head held high. While I enjoyed Eliza, I can't say that Thomas made much of an impression on me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike him, but I didn't find him to be particularly memorable. He seemed really flakey to me a lot of times and didn't quite know how to handle the situation with Eliza.
Eliza and Thomas had a bit of history between them as shortly before her engagement ball the first time, he kissed her and left her in a confused state. Years later, he is back and wants Eliza again, only she does not know if he wants her more than just as a lover. The romance had its sweet moments, but it also had a few dramatic moments to it that could have easily been solved with an open conversation. These two really had a hard time communicating their feelings for each other. In the end, though, it all worked out and they got to learn more about each other and fall in love in the process. Also, I was really glad to see Clara and William from the first book play important roles in this book.
While not entirely the most memorable book for me, I still recommend The Viscount Can Wait as I think many historical romance readers will enjoy Marie Tremayne's writing. She has certainly got a voice to look forward to.
I recently read and enjoyed Marie Tremayne's debut novel, Lady in Waiting, and was eager to have found a new historical romance author whose writing I liked. The Viscount Can Wait is the second book in the Reluctant Brides series and while I can't say that I enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed the first book, it was still a good historical romance read and has solidified Marie Tremayne as an author I'm excited to see develop more.
I have not seen this a lot in the historical romance novels that I have read, but it was nice to see a single mother as the heroine of The Viscount Can Wait. Eliza and her 4-year old daughter are back in the midst of the London season, in search of a husband for herself so that she can better provide for her child. I liked Eliza's voice. I thought she was an interesting character who seemed to know what she wanted and hardly ever strayed from her goals. In that age and time, it wasn't easy for widowed women to go out in society again, but she did it all with her head held high. While I enjoyed Eliza, I can't say that Thomas made much of an impression on me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike him, but I didn't find him to be particularly memorable. He seemed really flakey to me a lot of times and didn't quite know how to handle the situation with Eliza.
Eliza and Thomas had a bit of history between them as shortly before her engagement ball the first time, he kissed her and left her in a confused state. Years later, he is back and wants Eliza again, only she does not know if he wants her more than just as a lover. The romance had its sweet moments, but it also had a few dramatic moments to it that could have easily been solved with an open conversation. These two really had a hard time communicating their feelings for each other. In the end, though, it all worked out and they got to learn more about each other and fall in love in the process. Also, I was really glad to see Clara and William from the first book play important roles in this book.
While not entirely the most memorable book for me, I still recommend The Viscount Can Wait as I think many historical romance readers will enjoy Marie Tremayne's writing. She has certainly got a voice to look forward to.
did-not-finish
March 9, 2021Stopped reading at 26%.
This book seems to operate under the illusion that it doesn't matter how aggressively the male lead pursues his love interest—secretly, she wants him, so everything is justified.
Here, Thomas and Eliza have been lust-pining after each other for five years (Eliza married another dude). Eliza is the forbidden sister of his best friend. Newly widowed at age 21, Eliza is off to catch a new husband, but she wants Thomas to stay away from her. She makes this clear. Thomas agrees to stay away.
But then Thomas is like "huh, what if I fucked her, just once, before she gets remarried? that would be fun" and then proceeds to aggressively follow her around London like a creepy stalker. At one point, they're at a ball, and he grabs her, drags her out onto the dance floor, and proceeds to dance with her while she physically resists and verbally gives nonconsent.
Considering that at this point Eliza has not voiced any kind of interest in Thomas—she has, in fact, done the opposite, it's hard to see him as anything but a guy who refuses to take a clearly stated no for an answer.
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This book seems to operate under the illusion that it doesn't matter how aggressively the male lead pursues his love interest—secretly, she wants him, so everything is justified.
Here, Thomas and Eliza have been lust-pining after each other for five years (Eliza married another dude). Eliza is the forbidden sister of his best friend. Newly widowed at age 21, Eliza is off to catch a new husband, but she wants Thomas to stay away from her. She makes this clear. Thomas agrees to stay away.
But then Thomas is like "huh, what if I fucked her, just once, before she gets remarried? that would be fun" and then proceeds to aggressively follow her around London like a creepy stalker. At one point, they're at a ball, and he grabs her, drags her out onto the dance floor, and proceeds to dance with her while she physically resists and verbally gives nonconsent.
Considering that at this point Eliza has not voiced any kind of interest in Thomas—she has, in fact, done the opposite, it's hard to see him as anything but a guy who refuses to take a clearly stated no for an answer.
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October 24, 2018
I loved the first book in this series and, based on Eliza and Thomas’ interactions in that book, I was looking forward to this one. And it was a huge letdown.
Nothing interesting happens the first half of the book. The phrase, “show me, don’t tell me” kept going through my head. It was just page after page of Eliza and Thomas having the same thoughts again and again. It was maddening and I actually quit reading the book for a week or two.
I’m so over the hero that has slept with everything in skirts and feels entitled. I have no clue what drew Thomas to Eliza besides the fact he hadn’t slept with her yet. She was devoid of any real personality. And I liked her actual suitor better than Thomas. Thomas was a dick but it’s okay because he’s nice to her daughter.
I couldn’t figure out what they liked about each other, and it seemed neither could they. Thomas’ realization he’s in love with Eliza came completely out of nowhere. I remember checking to make sure I hadn’t skipped more pages than I intended to because I was so surprised by it.
I loved the first book and I will be reading the next because it’s plot was kind of set up in this one and sounds interesting.
*I received an eARC from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Nothing interesting happens the first half of the book. The phrase, “show me, don’t tell me” kept going through my head. It was just page after page of Eliza and Thomas having the same thoughts again and again. It was maddening and I actually quit reading the book for a week or two.
I’m so over the hero that has slept with everything in skirts and feels entitled. I have no clue what drew Thomas to Eliza besides the fact he hadn’t slept with her yet. She was devoid of any real personality. And I liked her actual suitor better than Thomas. Thomas was a dick but it’s okay because he’s nice to her daughter.
I couldn’t figure out what they liked about each other, and it seemed neither could they. Thomas’ realization he’s in love with Eliza came completely out of nowhere. I remember checking to make sure I hadn’t skipped more pages than I intended to because I was so surprised by it.
I loved the first book and I will be reading the next because it’s plot was kind of set up in this one and sounds interesting.
*I received an eARC from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2018
Absolutely adored this story!
I knew going in that I was going love The Viscount Can Wait, but I wasn't prepared for just how much. Eliza and Thomas' story was just so achingly good. It was hard-fought for them with both of them getting in their own of way of HEA.
While Marie Tremayne might be a new author, she has fast become one of my favorites. Two books in and I am completely head over heels for this community of characters.
I knew going in that I was going love The Viscount Can Wait, but I wasn't prepared for just how much. Eliza and Thomas' story was just so achingly good. It was hard-fought for them with both of them getting in their own of way of HEA.
While Marie Tremayne might be a new author, she has fast become one of my favorites. Two books in and I am completely head over heels for this community of characters.
November 11, 2018
Rogue extraordinare
January 12, 2019
Almost too late
Eliza has been semi in love with her brothers best friend since she was 16. Now she is older and wiser and desires a husband and father for her daughter! Thomas has harbored secret feelings for Eliza but doesn't want to ruin their friendship or his relationship with her brother! It is almost too late when Eliza finally sees the truth! A must read!
Eliza has been semi in love with her brothers best friend since she was 16. Now she is older and wiser and desires a husband and father for her daughter! Thomas has harbored secret feelings for Eliza but doesn't want to ruin their friendship or his relationship with her brother! It is almost too late when Eliza finally sees the truth! A must read!
January 1, 2019
Wonderful storyline
December 25, 2018
Excellent
I won this book in a giveaway which tends to make me skeptical, sometimes giveaway books arent thag good, but this one was excellent. It was well written, had a good story and has me looking forward to going back and reading the first story and eagerly anticipating rgppthe 3rd installment. Excellent work!
I won this book in a giveaway which tends to make me skeptical, sometimes giveaway books arent thag good, but this one was excellent. It was well written, had a good story and has me looking forward to going back and reading the first story and eagerly anticipating rgppthe 3rd installment. Excellent work!
December 19, 2018
I adored Thomas and Eliza as supporting characters in the first Reluctant Brides book and I adore them even more in their own book. It did not disappoint. Their banter was filled with realistic tension and often made me have a great big smile not knowing which one was going to come out with the upper hand each time. Game, set, match! I loved the way they interacted throughout the novel. I especially loved the way Thomas playfully teased her all the time while in public so she couldn't respond as she wanted. The interaction of these characters reminded me a lot of Julia Quinn's writing whom I feel is the master of banter. Tremayne's books will definitely go on my automatic must-reads list. I can't believe I have to wait until Winter 2019 for the third book in the series. (I received a free copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.)
October 27, 2018
Actual Rating 2.5 Stars
Lady Eliza Cartwick has certainly been through the proverbial ringer in her short 21 years. Not only was she married off at somewhere around the tender age of 16. It also seems that the night before her engagement, the best friend of her much older brother, one Thomas, Lord Evanston, decides that he must "test the waters" . Thereby taking it up himself to "kiss the young Eliza senseless". Just before she is to go downstairs to be declared to the future husband mentioned earlier.
Repetitive yet?
No?
Hang on!
It will be.
Years pass...
And while some get older and wiser.
Others, namely Eliza, manage to lose all the males who could possibly stand in the way of her remarrying. In one single carriage accident.
A carriage accident that conveniently does not include her brother. And even more amazingly has managed to leave her as prime marriage real estate at the tender yet quite ripe age of 21. None threatening female child in tow; circa nuptials the 1st.
Why does all this matter???
Patience...
Dear reader...
Patience...
For you see...
There is obsession of the first water afoot.
And we are soon to learn that for some a kiss is not just a kiss.
Because in the case of one Lord Evanston. A kiss becomes a reason to:
A. Send your latest booty call packing after insulting her intellect.
B. Stalk the object of your affection via every public gathering you can.
C. Coerce her into kissing you again, on the not so off chance that she might be convinced that she too has feelings for you that hover somewhere around stalker range.
Or at least, "let's have wild monkey sex on the floor of my drawing room. After you come to my house in the middle of the night for essentially no reason" range.
For her part...
Eliza is so busy acting the coquettish young debutant in the first blush of her first season. Every time that Thomas enters a room. That you just want to slap her and scream "snap out of it". Like Cher did with Nicholas Cage in Moonstruck.
Because everybody knows that you and this man want each other worse than my cats want my rotisserie chicken from Walmart.
This tomfoolery goes on unchecked for the majority of the read. With occasional plot darts also managing to pin her best friend Charlotte to the wall. For a much needed diversion.
Before the chase once again resumes.
Needless to say that after everything is said and done there is a very predictable "happily..." to be had by all.
And one is left wondering where the office of eternal chronology might be located. In the hope that the hours spent reading this book, might somehow be added back into one's life span.
In this book's defence however. It must be said that this story is not poorly written. It is simply suffering from a true lack of course. And a conclusion that is too much of a certainty too far before the tale in and of itself has the wherewithal to truly become one.
Lady Eliza Cartwick has certainly been through the proverbial ringer in her short 21 years. Not only was she married off at somewhere around the tender age of 16. It also seems that the night before her engagement, the best friend of her much older brother, one Thomas, Lord Evanston, decides that he must "test the waters" . Thereby taking it up himself to "kiss the young Eliza senseless". Just before she is to go downstairs to be declared to the future husband mentioned earlier.
Repetitive yet?
No?
Hang on!
It will be.
Years pass...
And while some get older and wiser.
Others, namely Eliza, manage to lose all the males who could possibly stand in the way of her remarrying. In one single carriage accident.
A carriage accident that conveniently does not include her brother. And even more amazingly has managed to leave her as prime marriage real estate at the tender yet quite ripe age of 21. None threatening female child in tow; circa nuptials the 1st.
Why does all this matter???
Patience...
Dear reader...
Patience...
For you see...
There is obsession of the first water afoot.
And we are soon to learn that for some a kiss is not just a kiss.
Because in the case of one Lord Evanston. A kiss becomes a reason to:
A. Send your latest booty call packing after insulting her intellect.
B. Stalk the object of your affection via every public gathering you can.
C. Coerce her into kissing you again, on the not so off chance that she might be convinced that she too has feelings for you that hover somewhere around stalker range.
Or at least, "let's have wild monkey sex on the floor of my drawing room. After you come to my house in the middle of the night for essentially no reason" range.
For her part...
Eliza is so busy acting the coquettish young debutant in the first blush of her first season. Every time that Thomas enters a room. That you just want to slap her and scream "snap out of it". Like Cher did with Nicholas Cage in Moonstruck.
Because everybody knows that you and this man want each other worse than my cats want my rotisserie chicken from Walmart.
This tomfoolery goes on unchecked for the majority of the read. With occasional plot darts also managing to pin her best friend Charlotte to the wall. For a much needed diversion.
Before the chase once again resumes.
Needless to say that after everything is said and done there is a very predictable "happily..." to be had by all.
And one is left wondering where the office of eternal chronology might be located. In the hope that the hours spent reading this book, might somehow be added back into one's life span.
In this book's defence however. It must be said that this story is not poorly written. It is simply suffering from a true lack of course. And a conclusion that is too much of a certainty too far before the tale in and of itself has the wherewithal to truly become one.
October 30, 2018
I absolutely loved Lady in Waiting, so I knew that I'd adore The Viscount Can Wait. Marie Tremayne has a way of making my pulse beat so fast I think I might expire. Thankfully, I'm still alive, but it was a close call!
Eliza was such a frustrating heroine, but in the best way. I wanted her to take Thomas home and into her bed. But responsible Eliza wanted to be a good mother and find an "appropriate" husband to be the father to her four year old. Darn all these heroines who want to be good mothers! But other than that little tid bit she was quite a wonderful heroine to read about.
Thomas was King of the Rakes (of course, I just love when they are). He starts off all confident and secure in his promiscuity, but slowly throughout the novel he devolves into a love-struck idiot. It was absolutely adorable. He was the perfect embodiment of rake turned hopeless romantic and I was cheering for him the entire time. I laughed out loud a couple times watching him bumble through the courting process.
The Viscount Can Wait incorporated the perfect amount of hilarity, seriousness, and hot bedroom stuff. Marie Tremayne is a wonderful voice in the romance community and I will forever look forward to reading her work. If you're a fan of historical romance you will not be disappointed with The Reluctant Bride series. Out now!
Eliza was such a frustrating heroine, but in the best way. I wanted her to take Thomas home and into her bed. But responsible Eliza wanted to be a good mother and find an "appropriate" husband to be the father to her four year old. Darn all these heroines who want to be good mothers! But other than that little tid bit she was quite a wonderful heroine to read about.
Thomas was King of the Rakes (of course, I just love when they are). He starts off all confident and secure in his promiscuity, but slowly throughout the novel he devolves into a love-struck idiot. It was absolutely adorable. He was the perfect embodiment of rake turned hopeless romantic and I was cheering for him the entire time. I laughed out loud a couple times watching him bumble through the courting process.
The Viscount Can Wait incorporated the perfect amount of hilarity, seriousness, and hot bedroom stuff. Marie Tremayne is a wonderful voice in the romance community and I will forever look forward to reading her work. If you're a fan of historical romance you will not be disappointed with The Reluctant Bride series. Out now!
October 24, 2018
The Viscount was definitely 'worth the wait'. And Eliza showed how difficult life was for a woman in the 1800's. I loved both the hero and heroine (Thomas & Eliza). He'd suffered in silence since childhood. Men often act out because society puts them in emotional restraints. His ability to show love throughout his life was always present. The changes and challenges he went through to win over Eliza were amazing..."just for a chance." Eliza knew what she wanted too from an early age, yet she also was told by so many people that Thomas would never pass muster. Her loyalty to her family was strong...she knew what she wanted but had so much to consider. Eliza's strength and voice kept speaking out in various places, to various people. I adored how this Author wove many different people and scenes together so as a reader I clearly discovered the answers to so many 'why' questions, and in the end...a traumatic event was followed by a wonderful HEA for this loving couple.
January 1, 2019
One of the better quality romance novels I've read. I really liked it. Well edited. Good story. Great characters. And an epilogue. I love an epilogue!
I'd like to read more from this author.
There are a couple sex scenes which may offend readers.
I'd like to read more from this author.
There are a couple sex scenes which may offend readers.
January 11, 2019
Wonderful book
Wow! Absolutely loved this story. The characters were so perfect together. Storyline was wonderful,exciting, full of drama and romance. The passion between Eliza and Thomas was fantastic.
Wow! Absolutely loved this story. The characters were so perfect together. Storyline was wonderful,exciting, full of drama and romance. The passion between Eliza and Thomas was fantastic.
December 23, 2018
I got this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. It was a good regency romance with a nice storyline. Very involving. Sweet romance until the obligatory two explicit scenes near the end of the book. Good read.
November 22, 2019
4.3
Although not as good as the first book, this one definitely was enjoyable. The characters seemed more real in their doubts and actions, than usual in this genre, which was satisfying when they still got the hea. For example, although the H had all the devotion and compassion in the world for the h, he definitely did not always act perfectly (like most of these Hs are-which is more unreal) towards others. I like when a novel can give you flawed people who work to be better together.
Although not as good as the first book, this one definitely was enjoyable. The characters seemed more real in their doubts and actions, than usual in this genre, which was satisfying when they still got the hea. For example, although the H had all the devotion and compassion in the world for the h, he definitely did not always act perfectly (like most of these Hs are-which is more unreal) towards others. I like when a novel can give you flawed people who work to be better together.
January 22, 2019
I picked up this book because I love the trope. Heroes that have been in love with the heroine for years is a trope that I absolutely love. And even though it depresses some people, I was eager to read the story of a widow since I don't see them too often. I cringed within the first chapter or so when the hero kissed the heroine without her consent, knowing she is about to marry someone the next day. It was painful to read the way he handled it, not to mention the fact that she was only 16. For example, Eliza is confused after the kiss and talks to him and this is part of their conversation.
"Her cheeks grew hot. 'If you've got no regrets, then you won't mind if I tell William (her brother) about this, will you?" He walked slowly across the room to approach her once more, his eyes twinkling sharply. 'Feel free. But then you'll also need to tell him how you did not utter one word of protest when I did.'"
I mean, come on. That is just not cool.
I kept reading, but the book was never as good for me after that scene. For me, it changed what the Viscount could have been as a character. I don't like it when people kiss or touch me without consent and I like to read that in my romance novels. The book probably would have been a 4 without that scene, but with that disaster it was more a 2.5.
"Her cheeks grew hot. 'If you've got no regrets, then you won't mind if I tell William (her brother) about this, will you?" He walked slowly across the room to approach her once more, his eyes twinkling sharply. 'Feel free. But then you'll also need to tell him how you did not utter one word of protest when I did.'"
I mean, come on. That is just not cool.
I kept reading, but the book was never as good for me after that scene. For me, it changed what the Viscount could have been as a character. I don't like it when people kiss or touch me without consent and I like to read that in my romance novels. The book probably would have been a 4 without that scene, but with that disaster it was more a 2.5.
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July 10, 2019Friends to lovers & a reformed rake—two of my favorite tropes. She thinks he’s the wrong person for her (& her daughter), so she keeps pushing him away.
Tremayne’s love story is compelling, though the external events much less so. For example, I never really believed some of the important premises here: 1. That he was a rake. 2. That she had crushed on him before 3. That he had a super compelling friendship with her brother.
—but I also didn’t care overmuch. This book was FULL of angsty longing that made my heart ping and ache and hope a zillion times. And isn’t that what a good romance is for? ❤️
Tremayne’s love story is compelling, though the external events much less so. For example, I never really believed some of the important premises here: 1. That he was a rake. 2. That she had crushed on him before 3. That he had a super compelling friendship with her brother.
—but I also didn’t care overmuch. This book was FULL of angsty longing that made my heart ping and ache and hope a zillion times. And isn’t that what a good romance is for? ❤️
October 25, 2018
Marie Tremayne creates characters and situations that will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the end. Her dialog is clever and crisp. You will be laughing out loud one minute and sniffing and sad the next. As with her previous book "Lady in Waiting" I got caught up in the story and couldn't put it down. I have pre-orders for her next book and will follow her wherever she decides to go after this series.
August 30, 2019
This was a slow burn romance which I enjoyed.
July 21, 2021
After falling in love with book 3 of this series I endeavored to go back and read the rest. And while i enjoyed this one; book 3 still wins far and away.
This friends to lovers romance features a roguish viscount who happens to be the heroine’s brother’s best friend. After sharing a kiss on her engagement and losing her husband in a carriage accident, our heroine Costa returns to London for the season to secure a husband for herself and father for her child. Despite being warned off by her brother, our hero can’t help but meddle as he slowly but surely comes to realize he loves her.
What I Loved
Tremayne writes INCREDIBLE chemistry and slow burn. When a brush of a cheek sends my heart racing it’s good! I love their back and forth that read closer to enemies to lovers despite our MCs being friends for life. I loved the cast of characters, our angsty (and Aries AF) Viscount with a soft spot for children, the supporting characters (including sassy, trusted servants which i always love reading), the conflict driven by self discovery, growth, and taking a leap to trust, and, yes, every scene where they touched. I also loved that our heroine wasn’t a virgin or afraid to speak her mind. Their verbal sparring was done fun!
What I Didn’t Love
My main critique with this book is the victim-blaming mentality that runs through it. There are several instances where our hero responds with the something along the lines of “well you didn’t say no/stop me.” As if they played an equal role in the circumstances—despite him being older and more experienced when he steals a kiss on her engagement night and despite him having set things up in later scenes in the book. This didn’t feel intentional to me but it’s an insidious reminder of how deep rape culture goes. I would have loved to see some reckoning of this and/or more explicit consent.
A personal pet peeve of mind is “recovery” sex when one character is actively injured but yes let’s get it on!” The way it was written also didn’t track for the injury. Like idk that they’d be able to do that!
The PIV scene was less disappointing than book 3 but still not as good as all their previous hookups IMO.
Much of this book also served to setup book 3 which i feel mixed about...
Lastly, because she’s a widow with more experience; i would have loved to see some masturbation scenes with her and/or him (or him guiding her so he doesn’t *really* cause problems AHEM) because they are both clearly frustrated!
Overall, while i enjoyed this one it won’t be something I reread. Looking forward to the first book though and hoping to see more titles from Tremayne in the future!
This friends to lovers romance features a roguish viscount who happens to be the heroine’s brother’s best friend. After sharing a kiss on her engagement and losing her husband in a carriage accident, our heroine Costa returns to London for the season to secure a husband for herself and father for her child. Despite being warned off by her brother, our hero can’t help but meddle as he slowly but surely comes to realize he loves her.
What I Loved
Tremayne writes INCREDIBLE chemistry and slow burn. When a brush of a cheek sends my heart racing it’s good! I love their back and forth that read closer to enemies to lovers despite our MCs being friends for life. I loved the cast of characters, our angsty (and Aries AF) Viscount with a soft spot for children, the supporting characters (including sassy, trusted servants which i always love reading), the conflict driven by self discovery, growth, and taking a leap to trust, and, yes, every scene where they touched. I also loved that our heroine wasn’t a virgin or afraid to speak her mind. Their verbal sparring was done fun!
What I Didn’t Love
My main critique with this book is the victim-blaming mentality that runs through it. There are several instances where our hero responds with the something along the lines of “well you didn’t say no/stop me.” As if they played an equal role in the circumstances—despite him being older and more experienced when he steals a kiss on her engagement night and despite him having set things up in later scenes in the book. This didn’t feel intentional to me but it’s an insidious reminder of how deep rape culture goes. I would have loved to see some reckoning of this and/or more explicit consent.
A personal pet peeve of mind is “recovery” sex when one character is actively injured but yes let’s get it on!” The way it was written also didn’t track for the injury. Like idk that they’d be able to do that!
The PIV scene was less disappointing than book 3 but still not as good as all their previous hookups IMO.
Much of this book also served to setup book 3 which i feel mixed about...
Lastly, because she’s a widow with more experience; i would have loved to see some masturbation scenes with her and/or him (or him guiding her so he doesn’t *really* cause problems AHEM) because they are both clearly frustrated!
Overall, while i enjoyed this one it won’t be something I reread. Looking forward to the first book though and hoping to see more titles from Tremayne in the future!
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