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Jaded Gentleman #2
Seduction Wears Sapphires
New in the Jaded Gentlemen series
When Ashe Blackwell's grandfather challenges him to reform for a single social Season in London-or forfeit his inheritance-the rake agrees to the wager. But Ashe is assigned an unconventional Miss Caroline Townsend, a young, independent, well-educated, American woman with beautiful eyes-and no patience for rogues.
When Ashe Blackwell's grandfather challenges him to reform for a single social Season in London-or forfeit his inheritance-the rake agrees to the wager. But Ashe is assigned an unconventional Miss Caroline Townsend, a young, independent, well-educated, American woman with beautiful eyes-and no patience for rogues.
271 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 3, 2010
66 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Renee Bernard
34 books256 followersWhat in the world is a retired Navy chaplain’s daughter doing writing scorching hot historical romances and paranormal graphic novels? Renee Bernard is applying a great education from traveling all over the world to story telling and doing her best to keep her father proud. Truthfully, her father is her number one fan, even though he has sworn never to read a single word of her books (a vow he has kept to this day!) Nothing stops him from telling everyone he knows that his daughter is now a USA Today Bestselling author or from handing out bookmarks on the golf course. Love can make even a minister do strange things!
Renee Bernard is a freelance writer and host of “Canned Laughter and Coffee” on Readers Entertainment, as well as a contributor to Romantic Times BookReviews magazine. Renee currently lives in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California. (Note an interesting proximity to great wineries!)
Renee Bernard is a freelance writer and host of “Canned Laughter and Coffee” on Readers Entertainment, as well as a contributor to Romantic Times BookReviews magazine. Renee currently lives in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California. (Note an interesting proximity to great wineries!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 14, 2010
Over the past year I have discovered a love for historical romance and stumbled upon another little gem, Seduction Wears Sapphires, by Renee Bernard. Although this is the second book in the Jaded Gentlemen series, it can completely stand alone. This was my first read of Ms. Bernard's and given the genre and overall style, it will not be my last. What a refreshing new take on two people who from first sight are determined to detest each other, but end up falling head over heels for one another.
Ashe Blackwell is a true rake-a Clark Gable clone in the flesh. He knows how to work a woman into a flustered mess both in conversation and in the bedroom. Ever since his return from India, Ashe is living a life of self-indulgence as a gambler and a master of seduction. Ashe's ailing grandfather summons him home to try and rein in his womanizing ways. Grandfather basically threatens to disinherit Ashe and give the family inheritance to his cousin unless Ashe is able to present himself in society as a moral, reformed gentleman for winter season. No gambling, no whores, no scandal. While Ashe believes this to be an easy task to maneuver, he doesn't count on the clincher. Enter American-born Caroline Townsend, Grandfather's selected companion to chaperone Ashe for the season. While the London socialites will be lead to believe Ashe is Caroline's guardian, secretly she is watching his every move and reporting back to Grandfather. Sparks fly at introductions, Caroline referring to him as rude and boorish, and Ashe referring to her as a drab, tight-lipped American. Both are determined to deal with the commission at hand and then go back to their normal lives without the burden of each other. As Ashe and Caroline embark on the social functions of the season, they are thrust into some surprising, vulnerable and eye opening moments that cause both to view the other in a different light.
Ashe portrays himself as the cold, condescending rogue but underneath he is a tender, compassionate and sensual man afraid of trusting love. Caroline, while extremely clever, independent and direct, deep down, is a gentle, vulnerable, and insecure woman who wants to belong. With and to someone in the most uninhibited way. Ms. Bernard paints a vivid picture of humorous moments (sleepwalking, a shopping spree and the pet name, "terrier," Ashe uses for Caroline) as well as erotic moments (a steamy "lesson" Ashe demonstrates during a carriage ride, and Ashe lustfully taking her against a piano). I was immediately engrossed with the fiery, witty dialogue and the curiosity of how this couple, who loathed each other upon their meeting, would come full circle to a beautifully shared love in the end. I look forward to the final two books in the series, Ecstasy Wears Emeralds and Passion Wears Pearls.
Favorite Quote:
"Too late. It is far to late for me to dictate practicality to my heart now. He can speak of passion changing nothing, but for me, it has changed everything. I don't remember feeling anything before I met Ashe. And now I cannot stop feeling. There is no part of him I don't desire."
Ashe Blackwell is a true rake-a Clark Gable clone in the flesh. He knows how to work a woman into a flustered mess both in conversation and in the bedroom. Ever since his return from India, Ashe is living a life of self-indulgence as a gambler and a master of seduction. Ashe's ailing grandfather summons him home to try and rein in his womanizing ways. Grandfather basically threatens to disinherit Ashe and give the family inheritance to his cousin unless Ashe is able to present himself in society as a moral, reformed gentleman for winter season. No gambling, no whores, no scandal. While Ashe believes this to be an easy task to maneuver, he doesn't count on the clincher. Enter American-born Caroline Townsend, Grandfather's selected companion to chaperone Ashe for the season. While the London socialites will be lead to believe Ashe is Caroline's guardian, secretly she is watching his every move and reporting back to Grandfather. Sparks fly at introductions, Caroline referring to him as rude and boorish, and Ashe referring to her as a drab, tight-lipped American. Both are determined to deal with the commission at hand and then go back to their normal lives without the burden of each other. As Ashe and Caroline embark on the social functions of the season, they are thrust into some surprising, vulnerable and eye opening moments that cause both to view the other in a different light.
Ashe portrays himself as the cold, condescending rogue but underneath he is a tender, compassionate and sensual man afraid of trusting love. Caroline, while extremely clever, independent and direct, deep down, is a gentle, vulnerable, and insecure woman who wants to belong. With and to someone in the most uninhibited way. Ms. Bernard paints a vivid picture of humorous moments (sleepwalking, a shopping spree and the pet name, "terrier," Ashe uses for Caroline) as well as erotic moments (a steamy "lesson" Ashe demonstrates during a carriage ride, and Ashe lustfully taking her against a piano). I was immediately engrossed with the fiery, witty dialogue and the curiosity of how this couple, who loathed each other upon their meeting, would come full circle to a beautifully shared love in the end. I look forward to the final two books in the series, Ecstasy Wears Emeralds and Passion Wears Pearls.
Favorite Quote:
"Too late. It is far to late for me to dictate practicality to my heart now. He can speak of passion changing nothing, but for me, it has changed everything. I don't remember feeling anything before I met Ashe. And now I cannot stop feeling. There is no part of him I don't desire."
April 30, 2011
Rave reviews for this book and I can’t understand why, apart from the old adage of “different strokes for different folks”.
It starts off well-enough and with one of my favorite themes in romance: a blistering love/hate between a couple forced together . Caroline Townsend from Boston sets off to England to chaperone a notorious rake Ashe Blackwell at the request of his grandfather –I forget how she’s related to the guy to come across this “opportunity” but she does. She’s as poor as a church mouse and the old guy has promised to give her some serious cash if she chaperones his grandson who he thinks is nothing but a scoundrel and is ruining the family name. He tells Ashe that Caroline will be reporting on his comings and goings for about a month and during this time he’s to prove that he’s worthy not only of the family name but the inheritance that comes with it once granddaddy kicks the bucket. Ashe is livid but he’s game because he loves his grandfather and hates his cousin who could inherit if he doesn’t. Caroline’s doing it because she wants to return to the US with money in her pocket to open a college entirely for women in search of an education so they can be independent. Right off the bat the two are at each other’s throats and as much as I love that start to a story, this one just fell through because it was so stupidly predictable.
As far as characterization goes, Caroline is too much of a nails on the chalkboard harpy and then all of sudden she’s this gushing sex goddess. Ashe is too in love with his wiener and overall sexual prowess to be likeable. The author starts things simmering with Caroline sleepwalking at night and running into Ashe. Ashe gets all hot and bothered. Unfortunately Bernard just drops that idea and goes back to the tired pattern of blah romance writing.
The h/h get together out of nowhere and suddenly they’re going at it like they won’t see tomorrow—oh yeah and she’s still calling him “Mr Blackwell”---???? There are some icky scenes with all that too from the “slapping sounds of two bodies coming together”, that I guess was supposed to sound romantic, and his “crème jetting into her” –ew.
The narrative is littered with purple prose, useless exclamation marks galore and an inconsistent tone that quickly becomes irritating. One minute it’s this formal regency lingo and the next you feel like you’re reading a contemporary novel with contemporary ideas. Granted women can have ideas for emancipation but the way the author had Caroline attack it made her sound like a 1960s feminist which didn’t work with the period in the story. There’s also the gag-me scene with the sticky-icky the-heroine-is-such-a-kind-and-generous-woman moment where she saves a courtesan from public humiliation when the courtesan had every intention of making her the laughing stock. Spare me the sainted women routine :-/ All that and don’t forget to throw in the standard “he went to India and saw some horrible things that changed him”. I don’t know why the author bothered with this. There are a few explanations as to what sort of happened but it’s all really a mystery and it felt like the character needed to be padded with something —filler pure and simple.
The book is boring, the print is microscopic making it all the more tedious to get through, the h/h are stale and the love/hate theme is poorly done. Not an author I’ll be picking up again soon if this is considered “oh so good!”:-/
It starts off well-enough and with one of my favorite themes in romance: a blistering love/hate between a couple forced together . Caroline Townsend from Boston sets off to England to chaperone a notorious rake Ashe Blackwell at the request of his grandfather –I forget how she’s related to the guy to come across this “opportunity” but she does. She’s as poor as a church mouse and the old guy has promised to give her some serious cash if she chaperones his grandson who he thinks is nothing but a scoundrel and is ruining the family name. He tells Ashe that Caroline will be reporting on his comings and goings for about a month and during this time he’s to prove that he’s worthy not only of the family name but the inheritance that comes with it once granddaddy kicks the bucket. Ashe is livid but he’s game because he loves his grandfather and hates his cousin who could inherit if he doesn’t. Caroline’s doing it because she wants to return to the US with money in her pocket to open a college entirely for women in search of an education so they can be independent. Right off the bat the two are at each other’s throats and as much as I love that start to a story, this one just fell through because it was so stupidly predictable.
As far as characterization goes, Caroline is too much of a nails on the chalkboard harpy and then all of sudden she’s this gushing sex goddess. Ashe is too in love with his wiener and overall sexual prowess to be likeable. The author starts things simmering with Caroline sleepwalking at night and running into Ashe. Ashe gets all hot and bothered. Unfortunately Bernard just drops that idea and goes back to the tired pattern of blah romance writing.
The h/h get together out of nowhere and suddenly they’re going at it like they won’t see tomorrow—oh yeah and she’s still calling him “Mr Blackwell”---???? There are some icky scenes with all that too from the “slapping sounds of two bodies coming together”, that I guess was supposed to sound romantic, and his “crème jetting into her” –ew.
The narrative is littered with purple prose, useless exclamation marks galore and an inconsistent tone that quickly becomes irritating. One minute it’s this formal regency lingo and the next you feel like you’re reading a contemporary novel with contemporary ideas. Granted women can have ideas for emancipation but the way the author had Caroline attack it made her sound like a 1960s feminist which didn’t work with the period in the story. There’s also the gag-me scene with the sticky-icky the-heroine-is-such-a-kind-and-generous-woman moment where she saves a courtesan from public humiliation when the courtesan had every intention of making her the laughing stock. Spare me the sainted women routine :-/ All that and don’t forget to throw in the standard “he went to India and saw some horrible things that changed him”. I don’t know why the author bothered with this. There are a few explanations as to what sort of happened but it’s all really a mystery and it felt like the character needed to be padded with something —filler pure and simple.
The book is boring, the print is microscopic making it all the more tedious to get through, the h/h are stale and the love/hate theme is poorly done. Not an author I’ll be picking up again soon if this is considered “oh so good!”:-/
August 2, 2016
Entertaining, romantic, sexy and funny!
I just loved this second book in the Jaded Gentlemen series. Ms Bernard delights with a winning combination of unforgettable characters, lively plot, sparkling dialogue and some sizzling hot love scenes.
I love Ashe… such a complex, appealing, sexy rogue. His time in India left him a changed man... not only haunted by his experiences as a prisoner but also by memories of a love affair that ended tragically. Drowning in a hedonistic lifestyle seems the perfect way of forgetting the pain of a broken heart. But despite appearances, his sense of family loyalty and duty is still strong and when his grandfather summons him, he does not hesitate. He finds himself with no choice but to accept his grandfather’s wager. The possibility of his odious second cousin, Winston Yardley getting his hands on the family fortunes, land and holdings is too abhorrent to contemplate. Anyway, how difficult can it be to maintain a few weeks of impeccable behaviour? But his wily grandfather has an ace up his sleeve…a chaperone. Not just any chaperone but a plain little terrier of a woman with mesmerizing eyes.
I love Caroline. She is the perfect heroine for Ashe. No pasty-faced debutante but an independent, outspoken, tenacious and stubborn American. I admire not only her resolve to make something of her life other than being a charitable case for her relatives but also her spirit and courage in travelling alone to England. She’s needs the monies offered by Ashe's grandfather but not for any avaricious reason. She valued her own education and wants to build a university so that other women can also obtain the same education. So how difficult can it be to chaperone Mr Blackwell’s grandson for a few weeks? Maybe more difficult than she thinks when her charge is a rude, smug, boorish, ruggedly handsome, imposing rogue.
Their initial hostile clashes are so entertaining and I love how Caroline refuses to be intimidated by Ashe’s acerbic remarks and gives as good as she gets.
" …I don’t need you to keep me from disgrace. Rogue or no. I’m capable of holding my own without some drab tight-lipped American nipping at my heels. Frankly, I would rather haul a tiger around on a bridle than cart you through a Season.”
Hands fisted at her hips, she faced him squarely. “I’m glad we have an understanding then, Mr. Blackwell. Especially since I am the one with the unhappy task of holding your bridle, which from here makes you look less like a tiger and more and more like an ass!”
Ashe expects Caroline to fall flat on her face when she first goes into society but she charms the formidable Lady Fitzgerald and has the old misogynist Colonel Stevenson positively eating out of her hand. I love how Ashe has a fit of the sulks!
The tension between these two is simply delicious! I absolutely love the highly charged scenes where the sleepwalking Caroline wanders into Ashe’s bedroom and he definitely sees his prim and proper chaperone in a whole new light! His struggles to keep from ravishing Caroline, who is blissfully unaware of the situation, are so funny. Another favourite is where Ashe arrives at the modiste as Caroline is being fitted for a new wardrobe. I just love his suggestive comments about the riding habit! Oh and when these two finally get together, expect some love scenes that really sizzle! I love how Ashe shows he has changed by deeds rather than words and proves himself worthy of Caroline's love.
I really like Ashe’s grandfather. He is a wily old curmudgeon who is not above using a little deception to get what he wants. But his heart is in the right place and he genuinely loves Ashe.
The conniving Winston Yardley is a suitably menacing villain. It was great to see all his scheming thwarted by Caroline's quick thinking.
SEDUCTION WEARS SAPPHIRES is an immensely entertaining romance and now I'm looking forward to reading ECSTASY WEARS EMERALDS, the next book in the series.
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 stars
SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!
The JADED GENTLEMEN series (click the cover for more details):
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
I just loved this second book in the Jaded Gentlemen series. Ms Bernard delights with a winning combination of unforgettable characters, lively plot, sparkling dialogue and some sizzling hot love scenes.
I love Ashe… such a complex, appealing, sexy rogue. His time in India left him a changed man... not only haunted by his experiences as a prisoner but also by memories of a love affair that ended tragically. Drowning in a hedonistic lifestyle seems the perfect way of forgetting the pain of a broken heart. But despite appearances, his sense of family loyalty and duty is still strong and when his grandfather summons him, he does not hesitate. He finds himself with no choice but to accept his grandfather’s wager. The possibility of his odious second cousin, Winston Yardley getting his hands on the family fortunes, land and holdings is too abhorrent to contemplate. Anyway, how difficult can it be to maintain a few weeks of impeccable behaviour? But his wily grandfather has an ace up his sleeve…a chaperone. Not just any chaperone but a plain little terrier of a woman with mesmerizing eyes.
I love Caroline. She is the perfect heroine for Ashe. No pasty-faced debutante but an independent, outspoken, tenacious and stubborn American. I admire not only her resolve to make something of her life other than being a charitable case for her relatives but also her spirit and courage in travelling alone to England. She’s needs the monies offered by Ashe's grandfather but not for any avaricious reason. She valued her own education and wants to build a university so that other women can also obtain the same education. So how difficult can it be to chaperone Mr Blackwell’s grandson for a few weeks? Maybe more difficult than she thinks when her charge is a rude, smug, boorish, ruggedly handsome, imposing rogue.
Their initial hostile clashes are so entertaining and I love how Caroline refuses to be intimidated by Ashe’s acerbic remarks and gives as good as she gets.
" …I don’t need you to keep me from disgrace. Rogue or no. I’m capable of holding my own without some drab tight-lipped American nipping at my heels. Frankly, I would rather haul a tiger around on a bridle than cart you through a Season.”
Hands fisted at her hips, she faced him squarely. “I’m glad we have an understanding then, Mr. Blackwell. Especially since I am the one with the unhappy task of holding your bridle, which from here makes you look less like a tiger and more and more like an ass!”
Ashe expects Caroline to fall flat on her face when she first goes into society but she charms the formidable Lady Fitzgerald and has the old misogynist Colonel Stevenson positively eating out of her hand. I love how Ashe has a fit of the sulks!
The tension between these two is simply delicious! I absolutely love the highly charged scenes where the sleepwalking Caroline wanders into Ashe’s bedroom and he definitely sees his prim and proper chaperone in a whole new light! His struggles to keep from ravishing Caroline, who is blissfully unaware of the situation, are so funny. Another favourite is where Ashe arrives at the modiste as Caroline is being fitted for a new wardrobe. I just love his suggestive comments about the riding habit! Oh and when these two finally get together, expect some love scenes that really sizzle! I love how Ashe shows he has changed by deeds rather than words and proves himself worthy of Caroline's love.
I really like Ashe’s grandfather. He is a wily old curmudgeon who is not above using a little deception to get what he wants. But his heart is in the right place and he genuinely loves Ashe.
The conniving Winston Yardley is a suitably menacing villain. It was great to see all his scheming thwarted by Caroline's quick thinking.
SEDUCTION WEARS SAPPHIRES is an immensely entertaining romance and now I'm looking forward to reading ECSTASY WEARS EMERALDS, the next book in the series.
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 stars
SENSUALITY RATING: HOT!
The JADED GENTLEMEN series (click the cover for more details):
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
August 7, 2010
Seduction Wears Sapphires by Renee Bernard
Historical Romance- Aug 3rd 2010
4 Stars
Seduction Wears Sapphires is written by Renee Bernard. It’s about an English rake and the independent American woman who is assigned as his chaperone. Ashe Blackwell comes back from India to carry on his wild reputation, when his grandfather gives him an ultimatum. Either reform for one social season in London, or forfeit his inheritance. Miss Caroline Townsend is brought from America to follow Ashe to every social event and make sure he follows his grandfather’s orders. Both are educated, stubborn, and in a fight to control their resentment for one another.
Caroline has no patience for rogues, but needs this job to get out of her situation in America. The author makes Caroline very likeable, despite her abrupt rudeness towards Ashe. Her character is humble and does not let pride or her stubbornness ruin her classy attitude. Ashe is everything I’d expect from a leading man, but the author leaves a subtle trail of mystery about what happened to him in India.
I also loved the twist of Caroline’s sleepwalking habit. It finally makes sense as to why a hero would fall in love with a heroine, even though the heroine is always rude and dismissive. Caroline is both of those, but while she’s sleepwalking, she is kind and gentle, and they get along perfectly. It’s also funny!
As Caroline begins to fall for Ashe, he still keeps his distance because of his unexplained ordeal in India. Towards the end, the author does a great job making the reader excited for the characters to love each other, frustrated that the man won’t admit his deep feelings, and anxious to find out how it all ends.
Seduction Wears Sapphires brings many stories to the table that all come together in the end. This makes it a great read for those of you who need more plot than romance. Even so, the core to this story is how two people fall in love.
Reviewed by Ashley from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Historical Romance- Aug 3rd 2010
4 Stars
Seduction Wears Sapphires is written by Renee Bernard. It’s about an English rake and the independent American woman who is assigned as his chaperone. Ashe Blackwell comes back from India to carry on his wild reputation, when his grandfather gives him an ultimatum. Either reform for one social season in London, or forfeit his inheritance. Miss Caroline Townsend is brought from America to follow Ashe to every social event and make sure he follows his grandfather’s orders. Both are educated, stubborn, and in a fight to control their resentment for one another.
Caroline has no patience for rogues, but needs this job to get out of her situation in America. The author makes Caroline very likeable, despite her abrupt rudeness towards Ashe. Her character is humble and does not let pride or her stubbornness ruin her classy attitude. Ashe is everything I’d expect from a leading man, but the author leaves a subtle trail of mystery about what happened to him in India.
I also loved the twist of Caroline’s sleepwalking habit. It finally makes sense as to why a hero would fall in love with a heroine, even though the heroine is always rude and dismissive. Caroline is both of those, but while she’s sleepwalking, she is kind and gentle, and they get along perfectly. It’s also funny!
As Caroline begins to fall for Ashe, he still keeps his distance because of his unexplained ordeal in India. Towards the end, the author does a great job making the reader excited for the characters to love each other, frustrated that the man won’t admit his deep feelings, and anxious to find out how it all ends.
Seduction Wears Sapphires brings many stories to the table that all come together in the end. This makes it a great read for those of you who need more plot than romance. Even so, the core to this story is how two people fall in love.
Reviewed by Ashley from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
October 4, 2018
Some hot scenes, but I couldn’t really get into Ashe & Caroline together. They were strong characters individually, and I can’t say they didn’t have chemistry. The revelations at the end came too quickly, almost like they were glossed over. I can’t put my finger on it - I enjoyed the various elements, but they all didn’t seem to gel into a seamless story?
Such a vague review ... but it matches how I feel about this novel. I neither hated it nor thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m just perplexed by it. 🤔
Such a vague review ... but it matches how I feel about this novel. I neither hated it nor thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m just perplexed by it. 🤔
July 31, 2010
*Note: Read and reviewed for The Season for Romance.
Bernard gives us a sweet & sassy love story between a spoiled Englishman and his unassuming yet captivating American chaperon.
Ashe Blackwell has changed. Once focused and well-mannered, he has now become your typical rake and his grandfather has had enough of it. What his grandfather doesn’t understand is that Ashe’s lifestyle is his way of forgetting the painful memories of his capture in India some years before. His grandfather makes him a wager. If Ashe can prove himself to be responsible by remaining free of scandal for the remainder of the season, then he will not be removed from the will thus retaining his inheritance. That’s not all though. His grandfather has ensured that the reins on his grandson will be held tight by a chaperon – enter Miss Caroline Townsend.
Miss Caroline Townsend, from Boston, has booked passage to London at the request of her grandfather’s dearest friend. She is to temporarily chaperon a spoiled English nobleman under the pretense that she is being introduced to English society. If she is successful, she stands to gain a very nice paycheck, which she intends to use to open her own school where young ladies can be educated. Unbeknownst to anyone but herself, she is in dire straits and this income will help her fulfill her dream as well as help her to survive on her own.
Ashe does not take well to this assignment and he is hell-bent on sending the drab and mousy little American packing back to the Colonies. What he is unprepared for is the ease at which this mousy little American can woo people. She’s smart, incredibly charismatic, and stubborn to a fault. Their little game eventually becomes all too real though. Soon, Caroline realizes that she cannot compete with the beautiful and wealthy women of the English ton and Ashe realizes that until Caroline, he’s never really known love or passion.
I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and Caroline in particular was a breath of fresh air. Too often, we read historical novels that, from the English point of view, criticize Americans. It was so refreshing to read about an American girl who, in spite of her lack of wealth and her drab appearance, wins the hearts of even the staunchest Englishmen.
The plot involving the wager and the subsequent conflict between Ashe and Caroline is a bit simplistic. However, Bernard does a great job expressing the chemistry and passion between them. There are also a few scenes that are especially fun to read.
Without giving away too much, I’d like to mention that I was happy with the ending to their story. She didn't simply run into his arms because he said those three magical words. Although he knew as well as she did that she loved him too, he had to prove that she was more than enough for him. In a twisted sort of way, that endeared him to me because he demonstrated that they were both worth it...and that was sweet!
This was my first Bernard novel, but I certainly don't think it will be my last!
Bernard gives us a sweet & sassy love story between a spoiled Englishman and his unassuming yet captivating American chaperon.
Ashe Blackwell has changed. Once focused and well-mannered, he has now become your typical rake and his grandfather has had enough of it. What his grandfather doesn’t understand is that Ashe’s lifestyle is his way of forgetting the painful memories of his capture in India some years before. His grandfather makes him a wager. If Ashe can prove himself to be responsible by remaining free of scandal for the remainder of the season, then he will not be removed from the will thus retaining his inheritance. That’s not all though. His grandfather has ensured that the reins on his grandson will be held tight by a chaperon – enter Miss Caroline Townsend.
Miss Caroline Townsend, from Boston, has booked passage to London at the request of her grandfather’s dearest friend. She is to temporarily chaperon a spoiled English nobleman under the pretense that she is being introduced to English society. If she is successful, she stands to gain a very nice paycheck, which she intends to use to open her own school where young ladies can be educated. Unbeknownst to anyone but herself, she is in dire straits and this income will help her fulfill her dream as well as help her to survive on her own.
Ashe does not take well to this assignment and he is hell-bent on sending the drab and mousy little American packing back to the Colonies. What he is unprepared for is the ease at which this mousy little American can woo people. She’s smart, incredibly charismatic, and stubborn to a fault. Their little game eventually becomes all too real though. Soon, Caroline realizes that she cannot compete with the beautiful and wealthy women of the English ton and Ashe realizes that until Caroline, he’s never really known love or passion.
I really enjoyed getting to know these characters and Caroline in particular was a breath of fresh air. Too often, we read historical novels that, from the English point of view, criticize Americans. It was so refreshing to read about an American girl who, in spite of her lack of wealth and her drab appearance, wins the hearts of even the staunchest Englishmen.
The plot involving the wager and the subsequent conflict between Ashe and Caroline is a bit simplistic. However, Bernard does a great job expressing the chemistry and passion between them. There are also a few scenes that are especially fun to read.
Without giving away too much, I’d like to mention that I was happy with the ending to their story. She didn't simply run into his arms because he said those three magical words. Although he knew as well as she did that she loved him too, he had to prove that she was more than enough for him. In a twisted sort of way, that endeared him to me because he demonstrated that they were both worth it...and that was sweet!
This was my first Bernard novel, but I certainly don't think it will be my last!
August 25, 2010
In the second book of The Jaded Gentlemen Series, author Renee Bernard takes readers into the life and heart of Ashe Blackwell. His life, his soul was left scarred by his captivity in the dungeons of India. His attempts to deaden the memories have lead to a life of every conceivable vice.
His grandfather, the family patriarch, has no idea of his past trauma. He is only aware of the hedonistic life his grandson leads. All he wants is for his grandson to become a mature gentleman and accept responsibility. He offers Ashe a wager, actually an ultimatum, to be a gentleman for one London season or see his inheritance disappear. Ashe has enough of his own wealth that the inheritance isn’t enough to make him accept the wager. When his grandfather informs him who will gain that inheritance if he doesn’t accept, Ashe takes on the wager without a second thought.
After smugly accepting, he then learns he must will be chaperoned. Already outraged by this, he is then introduced to his chaperone, a seemingly quiet, rather plain American woman, Caroline Townsend. Not as quiet or plain as she first appears, Caroline is smart, worldly savvy, and has a few painful secrets in her own past.
Undaunted by her obnoxious first encounter with Ashe, she is determined to uphold her contract with his grandfather. Being subjected to English aristocracy, the protocol of a London season and nuisances of English society, Caroline finds she must tread very carefully. She also has no choice but to succeed, as failure would end any hope for her future.
The verbal bantering between the characters is indeed a highlight of this book. Caroline is a delight, particularly when being escorted into the inner sanctum of English society. Ashe is her equal and the two begin their attraction for each other while verbally “sword fighting”.
Using an American character, freshly imported from the colonies sets a perfect stage for conversations and arguments not usually found in Victorian era romances.
The characters are fun, witty, and give no quarter. Seduction Wears Sapphires offers the reader a great story, rich historical detail, and a charming love story.
His grandfather, the family patriarch, has no idea of his past trauma. He is only aware of the hedonistic life his grandson leads. All he wants is for his grandson to become a mature gentleman and accept responsibility. He offers Ashe a wager, actually an ultimatum, to be a gentleman for one London season or see his inheritance disappear. Ashe has enough of his own wealth that the inheritance isn’t enough to make him accept the wager. When his grandfather informs him who will gain that inheritance if he doesn’t accept, Ashe takes on the wager without a second thought.
After smugly accepting, he then learns he must will be chaperoned. Already outraged by this, he is then introduced to his chaperone, a seemingly quiet, rather plain American woman, Caroline Townsend. Not as quiet or plain as she first appears, Caroline is smart, worldly savvy, and has a few painful secrets in her own past.
Undaunted by her obnoxious first encounter with Ashe, she is determined to uphold her contract with his grandfather. Being subjected to English aristocracy, the protocol of a London season and nuisances of English society, Caroline finds she must tread very carefully. She also has no choice but to succeed, as failure would end any hope for her future.
The verbal bantering between the characters is indeed a highlight of this book. Caroline is a delight, particularly when being escorted into the inner sanctum of English society. Ashe is her equal and the two begin their attraction for each other while verbally “sword fighting”.
Using an American character, freshly imported from the colonies sets a perfect stage for conversations and arguments not usually found in Victorian era romances.
The characters are fun, witty, and give no quarter. Seduction Wears Sapphires offers the reader a great story, rich historical detail, and a charming love story.
September 12, 2010
Reviewed by Megan Duncan for Romance Novel News
Caroline Townsend has crossed the Atlantic to play chaperone to one of the most notorious rakes in London.
Penniless and without family support, she accepts the high paying position offered by a friend of her late grandfather. The money earned would secure her future and her dream of social reform.
Ashe Blackwell promises his grandfather he will exercise “gentlemanly restraint” for the rest of the season. He reluctantly agrees to a chaperone, but he does not expect an outspoken, uptight American to be his companion. Both strong-willed individuals, they clash immediately.
Haunted by demons of the past, including a lost love in India, Ashe is unwilling to let a woman get close to his heart again. In fact, it’s his over indulgence with women that has put his inheritance in jeopardy.
Ashe expects London society to reject the unfashionable Caroline outright, but her cleverness and charisma wins them over. His restraint is tested when he gets an unexpected visit from a sleepwalking Caroline, whose condition offers Ashe a glimpse of her softer side.
Caroline tries to do her job - her future depends on it, but she is overwhelmed by Ashe’s charms and risks it all by succumbing to her desires.
Competing for the same inheritance is Ashe’s cousin, Winston Yardley, a wastrel who stoops to deception to cause Ashe a scandal.
Renee Bernard is a masterful storyteller, providing powerful verbal battles and scenes loaded with sexual tension.
“Seduction Wears Sapphires,” is the second installment in the “Jaded Gentleman” series. Bernard is currently working on the next two installments, "Ecstasy Wears Emeralds" and "Passion Wears Pearls" to be released in 2011.
Caroline Townsend has crossed the Atlantic to play chaperone to one of the most notorious rakes in London.
Penniless and without family support, she accepts the high paying position offered by a friend of her late grandfather. The money earned would secure her future and her dream of social reform.
Ashe Blackwell promises his grandfather he will exercise “gentlemanly restraint” for the rest of the season. He reluctantly agrees to a chaperone, but he does not expect an outspoken, uptight American to be his companion. Both strong-willed individuals, they clash immediately.
Haunted by demons of the past, including a lost love in India, Ashe is unwilling to let a woman get close to his heart again. In fact, it’s his over indulgence with women that has put his inheritance in jeopardy.
Ashe expects London society to reject the unfashionable Caroline outright, but her cleverness and charisma wins them over. His restraint is tested when he gets an unexpected visit from a sleepwalking Caroline, whose condition offers Ashe a glimpse of her softer side.
Caroline tries to do her job - her future depends on it, but she is overwhelmed by Ashe’s charms and risks it all by succumbing to her desires.
Competing for the same inheritance is Ashe’s cousin, Winston Yardley, a wastrel who stoops to deception to cause Ashe a scandal.
Renee Bernard is a masterful storyteller, providing powerful verbal battles and scenes loaded with sexual tension.
“Seduction Wears Sapphires,” is the second installment in the “Jaded Gentleman” series. Bernard is currently working on the next two installments, "Ecstasy Wears Emeralds" and "Passion Wears Pearls" to be released in 2011.
August 17, 2017
In this story Ashe and Caroline are brought together by Ashe's scheming grandfather who wants Ashe to reform.
Caroline is to be his chaperone even though he is a grown man. So right from the very beginning of this story you are treated to the clever wit of the author and this continues throughout with sharp bickering, lusty thoughts and heated make-ups. Its was wonderful to see how these two characters change and evolve into the loving couple we know they will become.
I'm reading these books out of sequence but they are definitely stand-alones so this isn't a problem.
What I really like about this series is that I'm beginning to feel as if I'm part of this family of close-knit friends and this, for me, makes it really good.
This story was very enjoyable and its plot and theme make it pure entertainment. I'm very happy to be able to recommend it.
Caroline is to be his chaperone even though he is a grown man. So right from the very beginning of this story you are treated to the clever wit of the author and this continues throughout with sharp bickering, lusty thoughts and heated make-ups. Its was wonderful to see how these two characters change and evolve into the loving couple we know they will become.
I'm reading these books out of sequence but they are definitely stand-alones so this isn't a problem.
What I really like about this series is that I'm beginning to feel as if I'm part of this family of close-knit friends and this, for me, makes it really good.
This story was very enjoyable and its plot and theme make it pure entertainment. I'm very happy to be able to recommend it.
February 12, 2014
Completely dull. I wanted to hear more about Ashe's history while in prison in India and the Jaded. Instead I got a lot of cat and mouse exchange between Ashe and Caroline. And the whole conversation during her sleepwalking episode had me rolling my eyes in disbelief. Come on, I can better spend my time reading stories that are significantly more entertaining. This was a "did not finish" for me. 2 stars.
May 18, 2020
This is an unconventional historical romance, and yet it is traditional, too. How can that be?
The female protagonist is a young American woman who has been invited to become the chaperone for a man, who has become too scandalous for his grandfather. If Caroline Townsend can play the chaperone throughout the London Season of parties, fetes, and balls, then Ashe will get his inheritance, and she will get money for a college for girls. Caroline is an atypical woman since she is educated, but penniless (living with an aunt who is stingy and mean). That is, if she can keep her growing feelings for him hidden.
Ashe is considered a rogue, a profligate, and since returning for India, he has spent his time gambling and whoring (and generally just acting out causing scandals). Now, his grandfather bets him he can't conduct himself properly for the whole Season, but to insult to injury, he has added Caroline (one of his friends' granddaughter) to act as his ward (but really she is HIS chaperone and must keep him in line--that IS the unconventional twist).
Convincing everyone while staying on the straight and narrow is Ashe's job, but what happens with Caroline's behavior changes him and finds himself falling for his Quaker terrier.
Will Caroline succeed with keeping him out of trouble? Will Ashe stay out of trouble? And will either ever admit to their intimacies being more than lust?
The female protagonist is a young American woman who has been invited to become the chaperone for a man, who has become too scandalous for his grandfather. If Caroline Townsend can play the chaperone throughout the London Season of parties, fetes, and balls, then Ashe will get his inheritance, and she will get money for a college for girls. Caroline is an atypical woman since she is educated, but penniless (living with an aunt who is stingy and mean). That is, if she can keep her growing feelings for him hidden.
Ashe is considered a rogue, a profligate, and since returning for India, he has spent his time gambling and whoring (and generally just acting out causing scandals). Now, his grandfather bets him he can't conduct himself properly for the whole Season, but to insult to injury, he has added Caroline (one of his friends' granddaughter) to act as his ward (but really she is HIS chaperone and must keep him in line--that IS the unconventional twist).
Convincing everyone while staying on the straight and narrow is Ashe's job, but what happens with Caroline's behavior changes him and finds himself falling for his Quaker terrier.
Will Caroline succeed with keeping him out of trouble? Will Ashe stay out of trouble? And will either ever admit to their intimacies being more than lust?
August 28, 2017
Caroline Townsend is a young American who travels to England to help out a friend of her grandfather's. She is hired to be a chaperone to his grandson, who has kinda gone off the rails with gambling and women. Ashe Blackwell is pisssed when he finds out his grandfather has hired a young woman to be his chaperone and that he will be forced to participate in the latest London season in order to keep his inheritance. He's not worried about falling for Miss Townsend - she looks like a mud wren! He's a little bit worried that the socialites of London will decimate her, but he doesn't count on her intelligence and charm, which eventually he falls for as well. I did enjoy this book, although in parts it was a bit repetitious, and although we found out a little bit of what Ashe went through in India, not enough to satisfy my curiosity. 3.5 stars.
January 30, 2018
After escaping death and torture in India Ashe comes back to England and becomes a worst Rogue than before. When his grandfather gives him an ultimatum either renounce your ways or lose your inheritance. Ashe decides to mend his way for the old goat he loves dearly. He never would have guessed that his grandfather had something up his sleeve in he for of Miss Caroline Townsend as his Chaperone. An American that is the granddaughter of his American partner. Ashe is appalled but he did agree. He and Caroline butt heads at every exchange that eventually turns into heated passion and then love. A wonderful read.
March 10, 2021
This story proved the old adage "money is the root of all evil" from the way Caroline's family treated her to Ashe's cousin who tried to "steal" Ashe's heritage.
I really like the way Caroline stood up for herself to the critical aristocracy and was accepted for herself and not what she wore or spouted in conversation.
Ashe grew to accept Caroline for her stance and learn to love her and thank goodness followed her to get her to accept their love was real and that they were meant to be together.
I really like the way Caroline stood up for herself to the critical aristocracy and was accepted for herself and not what she wore or spouted in conversation.
Ashe grew to accept Caroline for her stance and learn to love her and thank goodness followed her to get her to accept their love was real and that they were meant to be together.
October 16, 2019
Seduction Wears Sapphires (The Jaded Gentlemen, Book 2)
The love story of Ashe and Caroline. Ashe's grandfather has plan for him. He ran Ashe to go hold season without a scandal. So he send for the granddaughter of her old business partner. She will chaperone Ashe. Can Ashe do it or will he ruined Caroline? Great story.
The love story of Ashe and Caroline. Ashe's grandfather has plan for him. He ran Ashe to go hold season without a scandal. So he send for the granddaughter of her old business partner. She will chaperone Ashe. Can Ashe do it or will he ruined Caroline? Great story.
April 28, 2018
Captivating!
Very good story. I could hardly put it down. Good backstory, but not too much to be confusing. At the end she tied it all together. Bravo!
Very good story. I could hardly put it down. Good backstory, but not too much to be confusing. At the end she tied it all together. Bravo!
November 28, 2018
I have always been partial to sapphires.
Another sexy romance success! I am enjoying this series. What lovely strong characters with just a hint of danger. Bravo!
Another sexy romance success! I am enjoying this series. What lovely strong characters with just a hint of danger. Bravo!
August 12, 2016
Anggota Jaded yg ke 2 - Ashe Blackwell, kaga disebutin si die gelarnya apaan.. tp yg jelas tajir dan heir gt.. Nah sebelum India, Ashe ini tipikal rake pada umumnya lah.. hobi hura2 dst, sampe kakeknya kesel (ortunya ude mati) trs dibeliin pangkat resimen gt dan dikirim ke India. Di India, Ashe jatuh cinta sama warga setempat dan percintaan terlarang pun terjadi.. malang gadis Indianya di bakar keluarganya dan Ashe dimasukkan ke penjara (itu pas ketemu sama Jaded yg laen). 2th di penjara, die kaga punya tujuan hidup gt lah.. dan si Jaded ini yg menghibur die sampe die py keinginan buat balik ke London. Pas abis balik, die lontang-lantung kaga jelas gt.. dan kakeknya makin murka, bukanya balik jadi orang bener.. tp Ashe kaga cerita ke kakeknya die dipenjara selama 2th di India.
Kakeknya kasih ultimatum, Ashe buat balik ke ton, ikut season selama 1season tanpa menimbulkan scandal, atau kalau Ashe terlibat scandal gelarnya bakalan dicabut, die kaga bakalan mewarisi sepeserpun uang kakeknya, semua gelar dan hartanya bakal dikasih sepupunya. Ashe kesel deh.. bkn karena die mau gelar kakek dan uang kakeknya, tp kr die sayang kakeknya dan cuma punya die satu2nya keluarganya saat ini, die jg kaga suka sama sepupunya, jadi die meng"iyakan" ultimatum kakeknya. Untuk mendampingi Ashe mengaruhi dunia pada ton, kakeknya kasih Chaperone, buat buktiin kalau Ashe ga bikin scandal. Chaperone nya ini cucu temen baek kakeknya, investor asal Amerika gt.. Caroline Townsend, muda, prim and proper lady gt, dan Caroline jelas2 tdk terpengaruh sama Ashe yg ganteng.
Untuk mengelabui para ton, Ashe sama kakeknya bilang kalau Caroline ini sodara jauh dari Amerika, dan siap debut di London gt.. Ashe dapet tugas jadi chaperone nya, padahal kebalik kan hehehee... Ashe sebel banget sama Caroline awalnya, judes, kekeh dst lah.. nah pas malemnya, Ashe baru sadar kalau Caroline itu punya penyakit sleepwalker, tp bukan diem jalan2 gt ya.. die bisa cerita, ngajak ngobrol, dan kelakuannya 180 derajat dari Caroline pas sadar, blm lagi kl keluyuran pake baju tidur doang.. Ashe jadi yah.. bisa ditebak kwkwkw
Caroline penyakitnya kambuh kalau die tertekan, jadi sebenernya Caroline itu bukan heiress seperti yg Ashe kira, emang si kakeknya itu kaya raya, tapi bapaknya diasingkan kakeknya, ga dikasih duit bla bla.. trs meninggal, Caroline digedein bibinya yg proper dan yaaahh.. gimana gt lah, jahat mkn, atau tegas kali ya. Caroline pengen mendirikan sekolah khusus perempuan tp dgn matpel yg sama kek sekolah untuk laki-laki (alasan bpknya diasingkan kr lebih milih ilmu pengetahuan dibanding ngelanjutin usaha kakeknya). Nah, kakeknya Ashe nawarin tu, buat jadi mata2nya Ashe aka chaperone dan kalau berhasil dalam 1 season Ashe tdk terlibat scandal die bakalan dikasih duit buat bikin sekolah di Boston.
Apa Ashe bakalan sukses melewati season tanpa scandal? sementara Ashe nya ini jelesan kalau liat Caroline ngobrol sama lord laen.. padahal pas awal2 die woro2 ke ton kalau Caroline lagi cari suami dan dikenal2in sama temen2nya sesama Jaded.. eh die cemburuan! blm lagi ada mantan mistress nya Ashe yg kaga terima Ashe nya ninggalin die.. dan sepupunya Ashe yg nyebelin banget dan pengen semua gelar dan kekayaan Ashe.. ah seru pokoknya.. kocak, dan tumben kaga tll hot.. apa kr gw bacanya sambil tidur baca tidur baca kali ya... **Emang ngaruh** kwkwkwkwkww
Kakeknya kasih ultimatum, Ashe buat balik ke ton, ikut season selama 1season tanpa menimbulkan scandal, atau kalau Ashe terlibat scandal gelarnya bakalan dicabut, die kaga bakalan mewarisi sepeserpun uang kakeknya, semua gelar dan hartanya bakal dikasih sepupunya. Ashe kesel deh.. bkn karena die mau gelar kakek dan uang kakeknya, tp kr die sayang kakeknya dan cuma punya die satu2nya keluarganya saat ini, die jg kaga suka sama sepupunya, jadi die meng"iyakan" ultimatum kakeknya. Untuk mendampingi Ashe mengaruhi dunia pada ton, kakeknya kasih Chaperone, buat buktiin kalau Ashe ga bikin scandal. Chaperone nya ini cucu temen baek kakeknya, investor asal Amerika gt.. Caroline Townsend, muda, prim and proper lady gt, dan Caroline jelas2 tdk terpengaruh sama Ashe yg ganteng.
Untuk mengelabui para ton, Ashe sama kakeknya bilang kalau Caroline ini sodara jauh dari Amerika, dan siap debut di London gt.. Ashe dapet tugas jadi chaperone nya, padahal kebalik kan hehehee... Ashe sebel banget sama Caroline awalnya, judes, kekeh dst lah.. nah pas malemnya, Ashe baru sadar kalau Caroline itu punya penyakit sleepwalker, tp bukan diem jalan2 gt ya.. die bisa cerita, ngajak ngobrol, dan kelakuannya 180 derajat dari Caroline pas sadar, blm lagi kl keluyuran pake baju tidur doang.. Ashe jadi yah.. bisa ditebak kwkwkw
Caroline penyakitnya kambuh kalau die tertekan, jadi sebenernya Caroline itu bukan heiress seperti yg Ashe kira, emang si kakeknya itu kaya raya, tapi bapaknya diasingkan kakeknya, ga dikasih duit bla bla.. trs meninggal, Caroline digedein bibinya yg proper dan yaaahh.. gimana gt lah, jahat mkn, atau tegas kali ya. Caroline pengen mendirikan sekolah khusus perempuan tp dgn matpel yg sama kek sekolah untuk laki-laki (alasan bpknya diasingkan kr lebih milih ilmu pengetahuan dibanding ngelanjutin usaha kakeknya). Nah, kakeknya Ashe nawarin tu, buat jadi mata2nya Ashe aka chaperone dan kalau berhasil dalam 1 season Ashe tdk terlibat scandal die bakalan dikasih duit buat bikin sekolah di Boston.
Apa Ashe bakalan sukses melewati season tanpa scandal? sementara Ashe nya ini jelesan kalau liat Caroline ngobrol sama lord laen.. padahal pas awal2 die woro2 ke ton kalau Caroline lagi cari suami dan dikenal2in sama temen2nya sesama Jaded.. eh die cemburuan! blm lagi ada mantan mistress nya Ashe yg kaga terima Ashe nya ninggalin die.. dan sepupunya Ashe yg nyebelin banget dan pengen semua gelar dan kekayaan Ashe.. ah seru pokoknya.. kocak, dan tumben kaga tll hot.. apa kr gw bacanya sambil tidur baca tidur baca kali ya... **Emang ngaruh** kwkwkwkwkww
April 29, 2013
Caroline has been sent a request from her grandfather's friend and business partner, to help him in a venture, and in return he will pay her a good amount of money, so that she could live the life she has always wanted, instead of teaching. Ashe has recently returned from India and suffered being imprisoned and ever since he has returned only wants to forget and put his past behind him. So he has lived a life in London has a full on rake, gambling and taking his pleasure wherever he can find it. But then his grandather forces him into a challenge, a bet of sorts. He will have to live for two weeks with no scandal of any sort attached to him, and will have a chaperone attached to his side to make sure that he behaves, or be removed from the will forever and be shunned from society. What he doesn't count on is having to resist his attraction to his new companion, whose opinionated and stubborn nature only draws him more to her. He doesn't understand how their constant arguments could be sensual in their own way. But when Caroline starts to share with him a unbridled passion, he is more than willing to share sensual delights with her, but what will be the cost?
Seduction Wears Sapphires is the second in the series, and this is the first time that I have read from this author. I hadn't heard many things about this author since I think she is a bit newer, but when I read the blurb, this story sounded like something that I would enjoy reading. I am not sure if it was me or if I was distracted or what, but I had the hardest time getting into it, until the last few chapters-which is where it really got interesting. I found the plot to be stable and secure, but I think maybe it was just the style of the author's writing, that just didn't get me interested enough. It was the type of story that you can relax with but not one you can fully engage with. It didn't stand out to me in any significant way and to say I was a bit disappointed is a understatement. I had high hopes for Seduction Wears Sapphires, and I am glad that I stuck with the story instead of putting it down, but I almost had to force myself at times to continue reading, where it came quite close to being a chore instead of a pleasure. I did like the basis for the story, and the characters were likable enough, it just didn't seem to have enough zest and spark to get me to fully enjoy it. I do think I plan on trying the others in the series, since I want to read the other connected books, maybe I will enjoy them more ( I do hope so), especially since after that this author does have potential. It may just be it just wasn't enough to reach out to me, hopefully I will get a chance to read more from this author and see what her other books are like compared to this one. Keeping the fingers crossed. :) Overall I found it to be a somewhat likeable read, that was full of flavor and sensuality and was very clever at times.
Seduction Wears Sapphires is the second in the series, and this is the first time that I have read from this author. I hadn't heard many things about this author since I think she is a bit newer, but when I read the blurb, this story sounded like something that I would enjoy reading. I am not sure if it was me or if I was distracted or what, but I had the hardest time getting into it, until the last few chapters-which is where it really got interesting. I found the plot to be stable and secure, but I think maybe it was just the style of the author's writing, that just didn't get me interested enough. It was the type of story that you can relax with but not one you can fully engage with. It didn't stand out to me in any significant way and to say I was a bit disappointed is a understatement. I had high hopes for Seduction Wears Sapphires, and I am glad that I stuck with the story instead of putting it down, but I almost had to force myself at times to continue reading, where it came quite close to being a chore instead of a pleasure. I did like the basis for the story, and the characters were likable enough, it just didn't seem to have enough zest and spark to get me to fully enjoy it. I do think I plan on trying the others in the series, since I want to read the other connected books, maybe I will enjoy them more ( I do hope so), especially since after that this author does have potential. It may just be it just wasn't enough to reach out to me, hopefully I will get a chance to read more from this author and see what her other books are like compared to this one. Keeping the fingers crossed. :) Overall I found it to be a somewhat likeable read, that was full of flavor and sensuality and was very clever at times.
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December 11, 2011The second installment of The Jaded Gentleman series sees Miss Caroline Townsend in a terrible predicament. She has come to London to play chaperone to one of the worst rakes in England history. Penniless and without family, she accepts the job given to her by an old family friend to accompany his grandson about society and make sure he does not create any more scandals and not bed another woman for the rest of the season
Ashe Blackwell has come back from India a changed man. Old demons and ghosts haunt him and his friends and the only way he knows how to deal with it is plunder every available and not so available woman he can. He is not so welcoming of his grandfather’s intrusion, dressed in tweed and wool. But he will try and abide by his grandfather’s wishes out of respect for the old man.
His will is tested when he unexpectedly gets a late night visitor in the form of a sleepwalking Miss Townsend. An almost naked sleepwalking Miss Townsend. Remarkably, he restrains himself and is reminded of just who will inherit if he does not obey. Winston Yardley is Ashe’s younger cousin, and a wastrel. He is panting at Ashe’s heels, just waiting for him to fall under the spell of an overpowdered lady. But Ashe has other plans when he see’s his chaperone come alive when she is transformed into a seductress in the right clothes, and now Ashe will do anything to keep Miss Townsend by his side forever.
Caroline Townsend has come to London to do a job, collect payment, and return home to a loveless family, but she does not factor falling in love with her charge, and what a handsome charge at that! She tries to do her job, she really does but Ashe’s power is overwhelming and soon she can nothing but succumb to her desires.
Renee Bernard is a masterful storyteller and I just loved that she created powerful sexual tension between Ashe and Caroline; it was fairly jumping off the page! The sex scenes were quite magical too. I will be looking forward to the next installment of The Jaded Gentleman series eagerly.
http://www.reneebernardauthor.com/
Ashe Blackwell has come back from India a changed man. Old demons and ghosts haunt him and his friends and the only way he knows how to deal with it is plunder every available and not so available woman he can. He is not so welcoming of his grandfather’s intrusion, dressed in tweed and wool. But he will try and abide by his grandfather’s wishes out of respect for the old man.
His will is tested when he unexpectedly gets a late night visitor in the form of a sleepwalking Miss Townsend. An almost naked sleepwalking Miss Townsend. Remarkably, he restrains himself and is reminded of just who will inherit if he does not obey. Winston Yardley is Ashe’s younger cousin, and a wastrel. He is panting at Ashe’s heels, just waiting for him to fall under the spell of an overpowdered lady. But Ashe has other plans when he see’s his chaperone come alive when she is transformed into a seductress in the right clothes, and now Ashe will do anything to keep Miss Townsend by his side forever.
Caroline Townsend has come to London to do a job, collect payment, and return home to a loveless family, but she does not factor falling in love with her charge, and what a handsome charge at that! She tries to do her job, she really does but Ashe’s power is overwhelming and soon she can nothing but succumb to her desires.
Renee Bernard is a masterful storyteller and I just loved that she created powerful sexual tension between Ashe and Caroline; it was fairly jumping off the page! The sex scenes were quite magical too. I will be looking forward to the next installment of The Jaded Gentleman series eagerly.
http://www.reneebernardauthor.com/
May 2, 2016
Historical English romance between a titled rich useless fellow and a smart strong American orphan.
This is a stand alone story although we do meet Darius an other Jaded member.
Mr. Ashe Blackwell is a rich wastrel living off his family until he has one London season to prove that he has worth or he is going to lose his inheritance. There is one little bit of small print... he has a chaperone, in the form of a beautiful American Miss Caroline Townsend.
The usual witty banter and romance follows as they are thrown together during the season. But they jump into the sack together really quick and there are lots of sexy time even though their schedules seem very full of society events. There is an obvious bad guy, but that has a surprising twist because Ashe and Caroline are just too smart and quick on their feet.
I just found the first book (yet another kindle freebie from a while back) Revenge Wears Rubies that I just started reading because this was a good historical romance with some great editing and character development.
251 pages and kindle freebie
3 stars
This is a stand alone story although we do meet Darius an other Jaded member.
Mr. Ashe Blackwell is a rich wastrel living off his family until he has one London season to prove that he has worth or he is going to lose his inheritance. There is one little bit of small print... he has a chaperone, in the form of a beautiful American Miss Caroline Townsend.
The usual witty banter and romance follows as they are thrown together during the season. But they jump into the sack together really quick and there are lots of sexy time even though their schedules seem very full of society events. There is an obvious bad guy, but that has a surprising twist because Ashe and Caroline are just too smart and quick on their feet.
I just found the first book (yet another kindle freebie from a while back) Revenge Wears Rubies that I just started reading because this was a good historical romance with some great editing and character development.
251 pages and kindle freebie
3 stars
April 21, 2016
For me, this was one of those "don't get anything else done until I find out what happens in the story" book.
Ashe and Caroline. His grandfather hires Caroline (she's an American) to chaperone Ashe for a season to ensure that he doesn't get into any trouble. If he can't stay out of trouble, his inheritance goes to his evil, smarmy cousin.
There were a few grammatical/typographical errors, but not enough to completely irritate me.
I found the premise for this book to be refreshingly different. A woman chaperoning a man? Interesting. Sleepwalking? Interesting and different.
My favorite part of this book had to be Caroline. Many authors have difficulty writing strong female characters without making them sound like complete witches. Ms. Bernard did an excellent job with Caroline. She was strong, she spoke her mind, she more than held her own with Ashe (he was often in over his head when talking to her), and she had nothing to fear from the Ton. Yet, as strong as she was you could sense a vulnerability, and a realness. She is someone I would be friends with.
I felt the sex scenes were a little much, but was able to forgive that because the story was so good.
Ashe and Caroline. His grandfather hires Caroline (she's an American) to chaperone Ashe for a season to ensure that he doesn't get into any trouble. If he can't stay out of trouble, his inheritance goes to his evil, smarmy cousin.
There were a few grammatical/typographical errors, but not enough to completely irritate me.
I found the premise for this book to be refreshingly different. A woman chaperoning a man? Interesting. Sleepwalking? Interesting and different.
My favorite part of this book had to be Caroline. Many authors have difficulty writing strong female characters without making them sound like complete witches. Ms. Bernard did an excellent job with Caroline. She was strong, she spoke her mind, she more than held her own with Ashe (he was often in over his head when talking to her), and she had nothing to fear from the Ton. Yet, as strong as she was you could sense a vulnerability, and a realness. She is someone I would be friends with.
I felt the sex scenes were a little much, but was able to forgive that because the story was so good.
December 18, 2016
I don't 'aggressively dislike' this book, as has happened with some I've read... but it's overall lacking a lot. The India thing is never truly explained, and I guess that's cause she got 6 other guys to write about. It's def historically challenged, I mean no one batted an eye with a unmarried woman travelling by herself and then moving in with a notorious bad boy with no supervision, and I have trouble believeing 'his ward' would be acceptable for anyone who is not directly and openly a very close relative. And the h is of course sweet enough to give a candy addict a toothache and loved by all. The bad guy is not quite dumb as dirt, but what little we see of him, he's reality challenged and a few cookies short of a box. And the sex doesn't come across as 'historical' in any way... LOL that not how I meant it, but will make it easier to explain that they went from nothing to 100 in 2 seconds, and had NO regard for being found out when the whole point is to avoid scandal. There was no finesse in any of it, it was like the historical that claim to be historical just because they exchanged all references to 'cars' to 'carriage'.
August 14, 2010
Every month there are many historical romances to choose from. What makes one stand out above the rest? For me it’s the tone and timbre of the book. The voice if you will. And I found the author, Ms. Bernard’s voice to be rich and nuanced. She moves the story line along with both dialogue and an interesting technique of highlighting the characters’ thoughts. It allows us, the reader, to know exactly what they are thinking and feeling and gives the book an almost voyeuristic feel. Ms. Bernard also gives both protagonists very strong back stories and clear motivations for their actions. The romance and passion are believable and strong and the story line kept me turning the pages.
I must say, if you’re looking for an historical romance with a bit of a twist, a head strong American, a Englishmen in need of some emotional rescue, an interesting story line, well developed characters and really good romance, might I suggest Seduction Wears Sapphires.
I must say, if you’re looking for an historical romance with a bit of a twist, a head strong American, a Englishmen in need of some emotional rescue, an interesting story line, well developed characters and really good romance, might I suggest Seduction Wears Sapphires.
June 27, 2011
Though I didn't find it quite up to par with the first of this series, Seduction Wears Sapphires still has its share of steamy goodness.
The characters of Caroline and Ashe were refreshing, but I found myself tiring of Caroline's constant tactlessness. To be honest, I found her blunt comments more than unattractive, and even hoped that Ashe would get with Margot, the vengeful prostitute, rather than her. Oh, well. It was still enough to keep me turning the pages and again I have to praise Ms. Bernard's wonderful apt for the general craft in writing. Brava, for another exciting, scorching story. I'm definitely looking forward to the continuation of this series... Which of the Jaded will find love next?
The characters of Caroline and Ashe were refreshing, but I found myself tiring of Caroline's constant tactlessness. To be honest, I found her blunt comments more than unattractive, and even hoped that Ashe would get with Margot, the vengeful prostitute, rather than her. Oh, well. It was still enough to keep me turning the pages and again I have to praise Ms. Bernard's wonderful apt for the general craft in writing. Brava, for another exciting, scorching story. I'm definitely looking forward to the continuation of this series... Which of the Jaded will find love next?
April 26, 2016
While the writing is excellent, the first half was the best of this book. I really enjoyed the banter between Ashe and Caroline. The scene where Caroline charms the old lady instead of becoming a disaster (much to Ashe's dismay) was great! And Caroline was very intelligent and had an answer for everything.
But be the second half I felt the book was over-long and I skimmed. The love scenes were uninspired and bland. The book just lacked the spark I need. It was worth reading but won't be on my favorites shelf anytime soon.
But be the second half I felt the book was over-long and I skimmed. The love scenes were uninspired and bland. The book just lacked the spark I need. It was worth reading but won't be on my favorites shelf anytime soon.
July 17, 2010
I typically don't like Regency romance novels, but Renee Bernard's "Seduction Wears Sapphires" was surprisingly decent. Yes, the wager was ridiculous, and the conflict between Caroline and Ashe was completely unrealistic, but Bernard did a good job expressing the passion between the two characters. The ending lacked that "umph" (for lack of a better word) but it was sweet.
So while this was not my favorite book, it enjoyable.
So while this was not my favorite book, it enjoyable.
July 29, 2010
A very good second-in-the-series novel with lots of interesting and often comical repartee, a very good plot line, strong and interesting characters, and a somewhat surprising ending. Renee Barnard is a ver good writer and she has given historical romance fans a worthy offering. As the heroine is an American colonist from Boston the author has embraced some of the fascination of the English with America as well as some of the prejudice. Above all, it is a really nice love story.
October 2, 2010
It's quite refreshing to be reading a straight historical romance for once, without all the spies and the suspenses that seem to be the present trend in the genre.
I can definitely say Caroline makes this book. She's one of the most delightful heroines I've read in years. Any worthy hero should have fallen for her and her remarkable character alone without all the business about the heroine's sleep walking habit which I find a bit of a gimmick. For that, 4 1/2 stars.
I can definitely say Caroline makes this book. She's one of the most delightful heroines I've read in years. Any worthy hero should have fallen for her and her remarkable character alone without all the business about the heroine's sleep walking habit which I find a bit of a gimmick. For that, 4 1/2 stars.
April 26, 2012
I did not expect to like this as much as I did. The plot is pretty much non-existent. But the banter between the two characters was hilarious and snappy, and I really enjoyed seeing a character be frumpy and not a social clutz. That's sadly not too common. The sex scenes were better than the ones in the other two Jaded books I've read (#1 and #3), as the characters seemed to actually be enjoying themselves more if that makes any sense. Not a brilliant book but entertaining.
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