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A Series of Unconventional Courtships #2
Nothing But a Rakehell
Lady Glory Brightley was dreading her sister's house party-until she discovers an early guest mired in a bog. She pulls the Earl of Keswick free-and then goes to great lengths to hide her limp from him. Is it too much to ask, just once, to be seen and treated as everyone else?
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide-from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit-her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl-with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He's about to find out.
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide-from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit-her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl-with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He's about to find out.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2020
49 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Deb Marlowe
87 books433 followersUSA Today Bestseller Deb Marlowe loves History, England and Men in Boots. Clearly she was destined to write Historical Romance and Mystery.
A Golden Heart winner and Rita Finalist, Deb grew up in Pennsylvania with her nose in a book. Luckily, she'd read enough romances to recognize the true modern hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo T-shirt instead of breeches and tall boots.
A proud geek, history buff and story addict, she loves to talk with readers and to create historical recipes in her modern kitchen. Check it out at Deb Marlowe's Historical Kitchen on her website.
A Golden Heart winner and Rita Finalist, Deb grew up in Pennsylvania with her nose in a book. Luckily, she'd read enough romances to recognize the true modern hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo T-shirt instead of breeches and tall boots.
A proud geek, history buff and story addict, she loves to talk with readers and to create historical recipes in her modern kitchen. Check it out at Deb Marlowe's Historical Kitchen on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 13, 2024
This is another hard book for me to rate, so I give it 3.5*. I just finished the mystery series this author writes and gave the last book 5*. This series is well rated, and I started with this book as the first book is a short story. I found the start of the book to be well written laying the groundwork for Glory and what she is dealing with. Keswick's abusive childhood is only alluded to, and hints are dropped about why he is the man he has become. I liked it and give it 3*. The second half moves the plot along and the romance and backstory come into play. The 4* ending was everything I had hoped for.
June 28, 2023
Nothing But a Rakehell by Deb Marlowe
A series of unconventional courtships #2. Historical romance. Can be sad as a stand-alone.
Lady Glory Brightly is riding her horse when she discovers the Earl of Keswick stuck in a bog. He doesn’t want to lose his boots so Glory helps him out using her well trained horse. He’s grateful but hiding himself from a desperate debutante, just as she’s hiding from society ridicule for a limp she can’t hide. Their meeting starts a relationship that both are curious to peruse.
Poor Glory was bullied by school mates and unfortunately it has continued in society settings. That makes Keswick mad and he vows to help her. He feels he can’t offer anything of himself but he can teach her to handle the public. The two take the lessons in an entirely provocative direction.
I hated the bullying and loved Keswick’s support of Glory. I didn’t expect the intimacies!
This series is unconventional courtships and I’m enjoying the settings and characters. Definitely will follow up with more.
A series of unconventional courtships #2. Historical romance. Can be sad as a stand-alone.
Lady Glory Brightly is riding her horse when she discovers the Earl of Keswick stuck in a bog. He doesn’t want to lose his boots so Glory helps him out using her well trained horse. He’s grateful but hiding himself from a desperate debutante, just as she’s hiding from society ridicule for a limp she can’t hide. Their meeting starts a relationship that both are curious to peruse.
Poor Glory was bullied by school mates and unfortunately it has continued in society settings. That makes Keswick mad and he vows to help her. He feels he can’t offer anything of himself but he can teach her to handle the public. The two take the lessons in an entirely provocative direction.
I hated the bullying and loved Keswick’s support of Glory. I didn’t expect the intimacies!
This series is unconventional courtships and I’m enjoying the settings and characters. Definitely will follow up with more.
March 4, 2020
Lady Glory Brightly is not your average debutante, in fact she would be overjoyed to never step foot in London. Injured as a child, she has a severe limp and has suffered from the cruelty of her peers. She longs to stay in the country with her horses, for in the saddle she feels whole, but her sister Hope, Lady Tensford has gone to great lengths to launch Glory, starting with a house party before taking her to London. Grace dreads the party, but when she meets and saves Colm Newland, the Earl of Keswick and his boots, she thinks she has found an ally.
Colm is at the party to escape so many things; his father, a marriage minded debutante hellbent on trapping him and his own demons. He finds a kindred spirit in Glory and their friendship develops into something much deeper, but when the demons he is running from catch up with him, he pushes Glory away to save her. Glory knows why Colm has pushed her away, but she will not let Colm sacrifice himself to protect her, she comes up with a plan to save him and just maybe herself as well.
This was a very well written story with lots of emotion, wonderful characters, secrets, pain, some angst, a sweet, slow burn romance and finally a hard-won HEA. This is the second book in the series, but can absolutely be read as a stand-alone with no problems. I am happy to recommend this book and am looking forward to the next installment.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
Colm is at the party to escape so many things; his father, a marriage minded debutante hellbent on trapping him and his own demons. He finds a kindred spirit in Glory and their friendship develops into something much deeper, but when the demons he is running from catch up with him, he pushes Glory away to save her. Glory knows why Colm has pushed her away, but she will not let Colm sacrifice himself to protect her, she comes up with a plan to save him and just maybe herself as well.
This was a very well written story with lots of emotion, wonderful characters, secrets, pain, some angst, a sweet, slow burn romance and finally a hard-won HEA. This is the second book in the series, but can absolutely be read as a stand-alone with no problems. I am happy to recommend this book and am looking forward to the next installment.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me.*
February 19, 2020
Deb Marlowe's writing is so lush and compelling that I always enjoy sinking into her latest. And her characters are wonderful--multi-faceted with intriguing secrets that keep you reading. I just love this one.
January 21, 2020
Nothing But a Rakehell
A Series of Unconventional Courtships Series #2
Deb Marlowe
https://m.facebook.com/DebMarloweAuth...
Release date 01/20/2020
Blurb :
Lady Glory Brightley was dreading her sister’s house party—until she discovers an early guest mired in a bog. She pulls the Earl of Keswick free—and then goes to great lengths to hide her limp from him. Is it too much to ask, just once, to be seen and treated as everyone else?
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide—from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit—her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl—with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He’s about to find out.
My review :
Can a lady forges her own future with the man she wants when the past let them both with scars to battle with ...
Yesterday, after reading the introducing novella to this new series, Love Me, Lord Tender, I needed to learn more about the heroine’s sister.
So this is my second read by Mrs Deb Marlowe and what is first noticeable is that she grants her heroines brain and wits. They fight their own battles with cleverness and stratagems as they are the ones to save their love interests.
I must say I was first upset at Lady Glory for hiding, so when she got her right reward at choosing the coward way, I was in full agreement with Mrs Deb Marlowe.
Thus she does a lot of growing up during the span of this story. It is sure, her disability causes her a lot of hurt, not on the physical side, more on the spirit’s one. She faces disgust, contempt, scorn and mockery, and as from some point of view she is courageous, she tends to let the eyes of others influence her own path. So until Keswick’s accusations for misjudging his character blows up in her face, she realizes she needs to take matter in hand and de uses what she really wants.
Keswick has been battling alone for so long, he is wary and jaded, he just wants a respite from the shadows pursuing him. Glory is a breath of fresh air when she lands in his life, but he fears he will destroy the spark living in her if he gets too close, thus his avoidance. But like magnets, they are drawn to each other.
His secrets are revealed far later but it was obvious from the beginning he was running from a dark past with some kind of abuse, why he is scarred to let her in, to taint her by association.
This is a tale of coming of age, to choose what is worth living for, with whom and for what.
5 stars for a second chance story about a woman finding her inner strength to reach for what she desires and a man stopping to run to face his demons.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
A Series of Unconventional Courtships Series #2
Deb Marlowe
https://m.facebook.com/DebMarloweAuth...
Release date 01/20/2020
Blurb :
Lady Glory Brightley was dreading her sister’s house party—until she discovers an early guest mired in a bog. She pulls the Earl of Keswick free—and then goes to great lengths to hide her limp from him. Is it too much to ask, just once, to be seen and treated as everyone else?
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide—from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit—her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl—with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He’s about to find out.
My review :
Can a lady forges her own future with the man she wants when the past let them both with scars to battle with ...
Yesterday, after reading the introducing novella to this new series, Love Me, Lord Tender, I needed to learn more about the heroine’s sister.
So this is my second read by Mrs Deb Marlowe and what is first noticeable is that she grants her heroines brain and wits. They fight their own battles with cleverness and stratagems as they are the ones to save their love interests.
I must say I was first upset at Lady Glory for hiding, so when she got her right reward at choosing the coward way, I was in full agreement with Mrs Deb Marlowe.
Thus she does a lot of growing up during the span of this story. It is sure, her disability causes her a lot of hurt, not on the physical side, more on the spirit’s one. She faces disgust, contempt, scorn and mockery, and as from some point of view she is courageous, she tends to let the eyes of others influence her own path. So until Keswick’s accusations for misjudging his character blows up in her face, she realizes she needs to take matter in hand and de uses what she really wants.
Keswick has been battling alone for so long, he is wary and jaded, he just wants a respite from the shadows pursuing him. Glory is a breath of fresh air when she lands in his life, but he fears he will destroy the spark living in her if he gets too close, thus his avoidance. But like magnets, they are drawn to each other.
His secrets are revealed far later but it was obvious from the beginning he was running from a dark past with some kind of abuse, why he is scarred to let her in, to taint her by association.
This is a tale of coming of age, to choose what is worth living for, with whom and for what.
5 stars for a second chance story about a woman finding her inner strength to reach for what she desires and a man stopping to run to face his demons.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
January 22, 2020
Lady Glory Brightley meets the Earl of Kestwick in a most unconventional manner -- he's stuck in a bog and she has to pull him out of it, all while saving his favorite pair of boots! When they meet, Lady Glory is strong and sure, as she is seated on a horse, and she can be the person she so desperately wants to be. But even after the Earl finds out about her limp, he sticks by her side and they make an unconventional team, navigating the waters of Lady Glory's sister's house party. Unbeknownst to Lady Glory, the Earl has things he can't control that make him feel shame too and, for the first time ever, Lady Glory finds a kindred spirit in the funny, handsome man. This was such a delightful book, and it went deeper than I had imagined when I bought it. I loved every word.
March 24, 2020
'Lady Glory Brightley was dreading her sister’s house party—until she discovers an early guest mired in a bog. She pulls the Earl of Keswick free—and then goes to great lengths to hide her limp from him. Is it too much to ask, just once, to be seen and treated as everyone else?
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide—from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit—her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl—with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He’s about to find out.'
____________________________
Lady Glory and Keswick were such wonderful characters and the dynamic between them was portrayed so well. They're very sweet characters and this story had a good balance of emotion, angst, and romance.
Honestly, I fell in love with Keswick's character during his running monologue whilst stuck in the bog, awaiting another to come along and help him. It was so endearing and dorky that I was then instantly on board with his character. I did find the conflict with his father to be a little frustrating while we were still in the dark about exactly why he was putting on this rakehell persona.
The fact that Glory had to deal with guests in her sister's house frequently treating her in such a disrespectful manner that she felt the need to hide was infuriating and upsetting. I really loved how Marlowe wrote Lady Gory's disability, it was an part of her character not just a plot device. I have found before that when a main character has a disability it is sometimes forgotten about at times throughout the plot. I was saddened that Glory felt she had to go to such lengths to hide her limp. But I was glad to see her confidence and her grow as the book progressed.
Nothing But a Rakehell is the first Deb Marlowe book that I have read, but I like the dynamic she created between characters and her writing style so I will be looking for other books by her to read. As this is the second book in the series, I might go back and read the first in the series, a novella. But I am weary as to whether I will enjoy it or not given the cheesy title: Love me, Lord Tender. I don't believe my enjoyment or understanding of Nothing But a Rakehell was impeded in any way but not having read the novella beforehand, this can easily serve as a stand-alone. I am looking forward to more books in the series being released.
Keswick has come to Gloucestershire to hide—from an overzealous debutante, from his father, perhaps even from himself. He bonds with Lady Glory as a fellow misfit—her limp is nothing compared to the wounds he hides. They pledge to see each other through the choppy waters of the party, but he never expected to be caught up by this sprite of a girl—with her quick wit, stunningly fine seat on a horse and giving heart.
Not that he could ever pursue such inclinations. For no true lady could want a man with his reputation and entanglements. Who could love a man who is nothing but a rakehell?
He’s about to find out.'
____________________________
Lady Glory and Keswick were such wonderful characters and the dynamic between them was portrayed so well. They're very sweet characters and this story had a good balance of emotion, angst, and romance.
Honestly, I fell in love with Keswick's character during his running monologue whilst stuck in the bog, awaiting another to come along and help him. It was so endearing and dorky that I was then instantly on board with his character. I did find the conflict with his father to be a little frustrating while we were still in the dark about exactly why he was putting on this rakehell persona.
The fact that Glory had to deal with guests in her sister's house frequently treating her in such a disrespectful manner that she felt the need to hide was infuriating and upsetting. I really loved how Marlowe wrote Lady Gory's disability, it was an part of her character not just a plot device. I have found before that when a main character has a disability it is sometimes forgotten about at times throughout the plot. I was saddened that Glory felt she had to go to such lengths to hide her limp. But I was glad to see her confidence and her grow as the book progressed.
Nothing But a Rakehell is the first Deb Marlowe book that I have read, but I like the dynamic she created between characters and her writing style so I will be looking for other books by her to read. As this is the second book in the series, I might go back and read the first in the series, a novella. But I am weary as to whether I will enjoy it or not given the cheesy title: Love me, Lord Tender. I don't believe my enjoyment or understanding of Nothing But a Rakehell was impeded in any way but not having read the novella beforehand, this can easily serve as a stand-alone. I am looking forward to more books in the series being released.
June 10, 2022
An entertaining story of a man who fears attachments (for good reason) and a woman who feels like she isn't enough due to a leg injury that has caused her to be rejected and made fun of.
I enjoyed the heroine and hero both! They both looked out for the other in their own ways and it was so nice to see them grow in their relationship.
This story was romantic and yet parts of it still kept me on edge a bit due to the unfortunate tenacity of one of the side characters. I kept waiting for something awful awful awful to happen, but thankfully, the book was resolved without inflicting too much undue drama on the reader - it was just enough!
I enjoyed the heroine and hero both! They both looked out for the other in their own ways and it was so nice to see them grow in their relationship.
This story was romantic and yet parts of it still kept me on edge a bit due to the unfortunate tenacity of one of the side characters. I kept waiting for something awful awful awful to happen, but thankfully, the book was resolved without inflicting too much undue drama on the reader - it was just enough!
January 21, 2020
Nothing But a Rakehell (A Series of Unconventional Courtships Book 2) by Deb Marlowe is another outstanding sweet Regency Historical Romance. While, book 2 it can be read as a standalone. Book 1, "Love Me, Lord Tender".
Follow, Lady Glory Brightley, sister of Lady Hope, now Lady Tensford, and the Earl of Keswick, Lord Tensford's friend. Set in Gloucestershire, at a house party.
A tale of coming of age, second chances, secrets, disability,
finding an inner strength to reach for your desires, running from your demons and learning to face your demons. Fantastic read!!
Ms. Marlowe did a wonderful job with Lady Glory's disability. I could easily relate to Lady Glory's disability as I have a disability myself. I loved how Ms. Marlowe managed to convene to her readers the issues people have with disabilities, how they can overcome and deal with they disability, instead of being bitter Lady Glory has a inner strength. I also loved the relationship between Lady Glory and the Earl of Keswick. Watching them grow from friends to a couple was heartwarming and compelling.
WOW! I can hardly wait to read the next adventure. Well done, Deb Marlowe!!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewer: AprilR
Follow, Lady Glory Brightley, sister of Lady Hope, now Lady Tensford, and the Earl of Keswick, Lord Tensford's friend. Set in Gloucestershire, at a house party.
A tale of coming of age, second chances, secrets, disability,
finding an inner strength to reach for your desires, running from your demons and learning to face your demons. Fantastic read!!
Ms. Marlowe did a wonderful job with Lady Glory's disability. I could easily relate to Lady Glory's disability as I have a disability myself. I loved how Ms. Marlowe managed to convene to her readers the issues people have with disabilities, how they can overcome and deal with they disability, instead of being bitter Lady Glory has a inner strength. I also loved the relationship between Lady Glory and the Earl of Keswick. Watching them grow from friends to a couple was heartwarming and compelling.
WOW! I can hardly wait to read the next adventure. Well done, Deb Marlowe!!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Sweet
Reviewer: AprilR
May 22, 2022
A smart, quirky, and pleasant romance
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 4 stars narration
Deb Marlowe brings a new Regency romance with another smart, strong-minded heroine. Lady Glory is the younger sister of Hope, the heroine from the first book in this Unconventional Courtship series. Glory is about to debut in society, but her self-confidence is shot because of bullying about her limp. She had gotten trampled by a horse as a child, and it is a testament to her tenacity that Glory can walk and ride a horse as well as she does. Glory and Keswick are both very likable.
I love the irony in the first chapter that it is the hero, instead of the Regency heroine, who hides behind a potted plant at a ball. This book has medium steaminess and is told in third person perspective of the two main characters. I love the climactic scenes and the happy ending. In addition, there is an epilogue from the perspective of Glory’s friend, who will be the heroine of the next book, and I am very intrigued. I look forward to the third book in the trilogy.
The narrator has a lovely tone of voice and a great grasp of upper class English accents. She is very good at male and female voices. I think that her pacing was a little too slow sometimes, and it made the audiobook drag a little in a few places.
I requested and received a free audiobook copy from the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
4 stars overall, 4 stars story, 4 stars narration
Deb Marlowe brings a new Regency romance with another smart, strong-minded heroine. Lady Glory is the younger sister of Hope, the heroine from the first book in this Unconventional Courtship series. Glory is about to debut in society, but her self-confidence is shot because of bullying about her limp. She had gotten trampled by a horse as a child, and it is a testament to her tenacity that Glory can walk and ride a horse as well as she does. Glory and Keswick are both very likable.
I love the irony in the first chapter that it is the hero, instead of the Regency heroine, who hides behind a potted plant at a ball. This book has medium steaminess and is told in third person perspective of the two main characters. I love the climactic scenes and the happy ending. In addition, there is an epilogue from the perspective of Glory’s friend, who will be the heroine of the next book, and I am very intrigued. I look forward to the third book in the trilogy.
The narrator has a lovely tone of voice and a great grasp of upper class English accents. She is very good at male and female voices. I think that her pacing was a little too slow sometimes, and it made the audiobook drag a little in a few places.
I requested and received a free audiobook copy from the author, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
January 16, 2020
Colm Newland, Lord Keswick, quit London to escape his vicious father and a marriage minded debutant. He know he needs to come to terms with his life. He can't continue with this life. I admired Keswick for his kindness, but I wondered why he let everyone believe that he's just a notorious Rakehell? When Keswick arrives at Greystone Manor he meets Lady Glory Brightley. Her sister is married to his friend. She's a spirited beauty and an excellent horse woman. I hated to see how her injured leg caused her to hide from society. She has such a good heart. I was upset to see the way society treated her because of her damaged leg. Newland and Glory formed a friendship that quickly developed into much more. These two have suffered so. I wanted them to overcome their circumstances and get a HEA. Deb Marlowe wrote an emotional story with strong, loving characters that I cared for. The plot was moving and romantic, but there were also unexpected surprises that added drama and angst to the story. I'm enjoying this series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
August 18, 2024
Listen to this audible. Enjoyed the narrator. Lady Glory and Keswick are made for one another. They both are damaged in their own way and help fix one another. Steamy. 🧡 Enjoyed this book.
Read
February 11, 2020Very enjoyable. Characters extremely lovable. Exceptionally well written emotional depth.
January 18, 2020
I love the characters, a few of them coming back from Love me, Lord Tender, and of course new ones. They were vibrant and alive, fallible and real.
Lord Keswick goes to the country estate of his friend early, abandoning London and all it's pleasures because of a persistent debutante who is trying to trap him into marriage. Once on his friend's land, Tenford, he ended up stuck in a mucky swamp. Lady Glory Brightly happened along on her ride, and saved him, and his boots, with the help of her well trained horse, Poppy. It was the start of an unusual friendship.
As people start to arrive from London later that week, and the houseparty starts to gain momentum several ladies try for Keswick, who is at odds with his father and has vowed never to marry while he is alive. Glory was in a horrible accident when a child and has a painful limp when walking. Most people comment on it, tease her about it, or other wise make her feel inferior because of it. But Keswick sees the intelligent, funny, beautiful woman behind the limp and sets out to help build her self confidence.
The debutante ferrets out where Keswick is and claims a family close by, showing up at the houseparty, bringing his father along a day later. Keswick finally tells Glory all his painful secrets so that she understands why he must distance himself from her while his father is near. Glory agrees but also sets other plans in motion to rid him of his father and this young miss.
I loved this book. The passion built beautifully between the our hero and heroine, their friendship was first and slowly deeper feelings layered itself over that. The snarkiness and viciousness of the some of the other ladies made you laugh as they each easily over come usually by their own folly. The turn around in one character that started out vying for Viscount Keswick, to being the first to congratulate them when they come together made tears come to my eyes.
This is must buy and add to your library if you like regencies at all. Come to Greyhouse and enjoy the houseparty of the Season.
Lord Keswick goes to the country estate of his friend early, abandoning London and all it's pleasures because of a persistent debutante who is trying to trap him into marriage. Once on his friend's land, Tenford, he ended up stuck in a mucky swamp. Lady Glory Brightly happened along on her ride, and saved him, and his boots, with the help of her well trained horse, Poppy. It was the start of an unusual friendship.
As people start to arrive from London later that week, and the houseparty starts to gain momentum several ladies try for Keswick, who is at odds with his father and has vowed never to marry while he is alive. Glory was in a horrible accident when a child and has a painful limp when walking. Most people comment on it, tease her about it, or other wise make her feel inferior because of it. But Keswick sees the intelligent, funny, beautiful woman behind the limp and sets out to help build her self confidence.
The debutante ferrets out where Keswick is and claims a family close by, showing up at the houseparty, bringing his father along a day later. Keswick finally tells Glory all his painful secrets so that she understands why he must distance himself from her while his father is near. Glory agrees but also sets other plans in motion to rid him of his father and this young miss.
I loved this book. The passion built beautifully between the our hero and heroine, their friendship was first and slowly deeper feelings layered itself over that. The snarkiness and viciousness of the some of the other ladies made you laugh as they each easily over come usually by their own folly. The turn around in one character that started out vying for Viscount Keswick, to being the first to congratulate them when they come together made tears come to my eyes.
This is must buy and add to your library if you like regencies at all. Come to Greyhouse and enjoy the houseparty of the Season.
February 5, 2020
Oh, I really loved this one. A lovely story of how the right person can challenge/help/inspire you to overcome your demons. These characters felt so alive to me. Great conversations as well as physical scenes. I'm really ready for the next one!
January 15, 2020
I really liked this book as I was reading it but the last few chapters are what pushed me over from like to LOVE. Deb Marlowe does an amazing job of writing characters who suffer at the hands of the ton - whether from gossip or cruelty or scheming.
Lady Glory hasn't had a come-out yet because her sister-in-law did not was to be embarrassed by Glory's "deformity" -her leg was crushed by a horse when she was a child and now she walks with a limp.
Lord Keswick's damage is internal - his father's cruelty and demanding nature has left Kes with demons that keep him from really forming attachments to people except a few close friends from when he was in school.
When the 2 meet at her sister's house party they manage to overlook everything that the ton would notice and see into the heart of things. He is able to see the woman behind the limp and she is able to see the kind man behind the indifferent mask that he wears. In the end - while Kes would walk away to save Glory, she steps into the danger to save Kes.
Deb Marlowe is the master of the strong heroine. Her heroines are the least likely women to be appreciated by the ton, one overlooked or looked down upon by the ton. Their internal strength allows them to live by their own rules.
I received an advanced copy of this book.
Lady Glory hasn't had a come-out yet because her sister-in-law did not was to be embarrassed by Glory's "deformity" -her leg was crushed by a horse when she was a child and now she walks with a limp.
Lord Keswick's damage is internal - his father's cruelty and demanding nature has left Kes with demons that keep him from really forming attachments to people except a few close friends from when he was in school.
When the 2 meet at her sister's house party they manage to overlook everything that the ton would notice and see into the heart of things. He is able to see the woman behind the limp and she is able to see the kind man behind the indifferent mask that he wears. In the end - while Kes would walk away to save Glory, she steps into the danger to save Kes.
Deb Marlowe is the master of the strong heroine. Her heroines are the least likely women to be appreciated by the ton, one overlooked or looked down upon by the ton. Their internal strength allows them to live by their own rules.
I received an advanced copy of this book.
March 25, 2021
I love regency romance books but I do find that it’s getting hard to find any that are very original as so many have been written. I do like this book and this series of “Unconventional Courtships”. This book in particular resonated with me as I have a disability, just as the heroine does. Her problem is a crippled leg and the subsequent social problems are more of a trouble for her than the physical pain. In a lovely twist, which Deb Marlowe is particularly good at, it is the hero’s problems with an over controlling father that cause way more problems for this couple. The characters are interesting, the plot twists are great, the descriptions of things add interest to the story without bogging it down, the pacing is well thought out and everything else is terrific. Can you tell that I liked this book? I did, a lot, and if you like regency romance you will probably enjoy it too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2020
During his childhood, Kenswick's father took away everything Kenswick cared about. In defiance, he has nurtured his reputation as a rakehell, and refuses to care about anything or anyone. Due to a lame leg, society either ignores or makes rude comments about Glory, so she keeps to herself. When they meet at her sister's house party, they vow to help each other, and in doing so, change their own perceptions about themselves. Very good book. I received an ARC of this book.
September 28, 2020
Oh, I enjoyed this book so much!
Faced with ridicule from her peers, Lady Glory is dreading her season, and her sister's house party that precedes it. A damaged leg should not be a cause of such obvious disdain. So she resolves to spend as much time with her beloved horse Poppy as possible before the trials begin. But then she encounters a guest in a predicament, and all her plans change, because he doesn't see her as others do. Maybe this house party won't be as bad as she thinks.
Running from London to the country is all Lord Keswick can think to do...pursued by a determined female who wants to marry him of all things. No one should want to marry a notorious rakehell, should they? But when he encounters Lady Glory, he starts to feel that being a rakehell may be in his past.
A wonderful cast of characters!
Faced with ridicule from her peers, Lady Glory is dreading her season, and her sister's house party that precedes it. A damaged leg should not be a cause of such obvious disdain. So she resolves to spend as much time with her beloved horse Poppy as possible before the trials begin. But then she encounters a guest in a predicament, and all her plans change, because he doesn't see her as others do. Maybe this house party won't be as bad as she thinks.
Running from London to the country is all Lord Keswick can think to do...pursued by a determined female who wants to marry him of all things. No one should want to marry a notorious rakehell, should they? But when he encounters Lady Glory, he starts to feel that being a rakehell may be in his past.
A wonderful cast of characters!
April 24, 2021
Complex Characters and Witty Banter Make This a Page Turner
What a surprisingly delightful story! The author was able to weave in humor and witty banter throughout, even though she dealt with much heavier and even darker themes. She brilliantly showed how the heroine suffered both mentally and physically because of her lameness. She took on, mentally and emotionally, the slights she had received from society (and even family) over the years. She so wants to be seen as just a normal girl that she attempts to hide her disability from the hero. I loved his initial reaction when he found out; his response was “negligible,” to use a word the heroine thought when it happened. I wasn't wild about his secondary response, which was to be insulted that she didn't trust him to react well. The man has secrets of his own, which are only hinted at in the beginning. By the book’s title, and his own admission, we know the hero is considered a rake, but the author has drawn him as a far more complex one than we usually see in Regency romance. This was a book that I kept reading even though I should have done other things. That's the highest compliment I can give a book! The complex, believable, vulnerable, and genuinely decent characters made it a page-turner, along with the author’s sensitivity to the characters' vulnerabilities. And, seriously, I loved the banter between the hero and heroine. How much fun it would have been to hang out with them at that house party! Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
What a surprisingly delightful story! The author was able to weave in humor and witty banter throughout, even though she dealt with much heavier and even darker themes. She brilliantly showed how the heroine suffered both mentally and physically because of her lameness. She took on, mentally and emotionally, the slights she had received from society (and even family) over the years. She so wants to be seen as just a normal girl that she attempts to hide her disability from the hero. I loved his initial reaction when he found out; his response was “negligible,” to use a word the heroine thought when it happened. I wasn't wild about his secondary response, which was to be insulted that she didn't trust him to react well. The man has secrets of his own, which are only hinted at in the beginning. By the book’s title, and his own admission, we know the hero is considered a rake, but the author has drawn him as a far more complex one than we usually see in Regency romance. This was a book that I kept reading even though I should have done other things. That's the highest compliment I can give a book! The complex, believable, vulnerable, and genuinely decent characters made it a page-turner, along with the author’s sensitivity to the characters' vulnerabilities. And, seriously, I loved the banter between the hero and heroine. How much fun it would have been to hang out with them at that house party! Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
March 28, 2021
Wonderfully written story about Glory and Keswick.
As a young girl, Glory survived a terrible accident when a horse trampled her lower leg. Nobody thought she would ever walk again, but Glory proves otherwise. Her mutilated lower leg makes dancing nearly impossible, but she still tries when her sister throws a house party.
Keswick takes no responsibility for anything, chases everything wearing a skirt and avoids anything that provokes an expectation. Until a young woman chases him and wants to put him in a situation where he has to marry her. He escapes London and goes to the house party earlier.
It's Glory who saves him when he's stuck in the mud. It is Glory who saves him from an uncertain future. It is Glory who saves him from his closed heart. It is Glory who saves him from his father's manipulations.
And it is Kenwick who saves her from living alone.
A beautiful story in which the son of an Earl tries to stay out of the clutches of his father who does not see his happiness. Where an Earl's daughter sees no future than moving in with her sister and being part of the household but will never know a household for herself. Where Glory grows above herself when she gets to know love through a broken man.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As a young girl, Glory survived a terrible accident when a horse trampled her lower leg. Nobody thought she would ever walk again, but Glory proves otherwise. Her mutilated lower leg makes dancing nearly impossible, but she still tries when her sister throws a house party.
Keswick takes no responsibility for anything, chases everything wearing a skirt and avoids anything that provokes an expectation. Until a young woman chases him and wants to put him in a situation where he has to marry her. He escapes London and goes to the house party earlier.
It's Glory who saves him when he's stuck in the mud. It is Glory who saves him from an uncertain future. It is Glory who saves him from his closed heart. It is Glory who saves him from his father's manipulations.
And it is Kenwick who saves her from living alone.
A beautiful story in which the son of an Earl tries to stay out of the clutches of his father who does not see his happiness. Where an Earl's daughter sees no future than moving in with her sister and being part of the household but will never know a household for herself. Where Glory grows above herself when she gets to know love through a broken man.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2021
Lady Glory Brightley was dreading her sister’s house party where she would have to endure embarrassing and disrespectful treatment for the limp she feels compelled to hide. But she discovers a guest has gotten himself stuck in a bog. The Earl of Keswick is here to hide out from various things that plague him. He recognizes the limp she tries to hide from him, comparing it to his own wounds which may be even deeper. But the two of them bond regardless over their very imperfection. Lady Glory actually was empowered by her disability to be better and try harder to overcome the perceived weakness. If Keswick stopped overthinking the issue of his own unworthiness, he might just find that Lady Glory has already accepted him as he is and has an open heart waiting for him.
This was a good story line. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and was delighted to see Glory grow in her confidence and assurance, evidenced by their relationship as they start out friends who can count on each other. She had so much going for her beyond a physical disability which she grew beyond. The author did a great job at making these characters come alive as people the reader could truly care about. Grab your copy and see what else their story promises.
This was a good story line. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and was delighted to see Glory grow in her confidence and assurance, evidenced by their relationship as they start out friends who can count on each other. She had so much going for her beyond a physical disability which she grew beyond. The author did a great job at making these characters come alive as people the reader could truly care about. Grab your copy and see what else their story promises.
June 11, 2023
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Fantastic audio performance and I loved the story.
This is my second book by Deb Marlowe and I could almost copy my review of Love Me, Lord Tender word for word but I’ll try not to do that. 😊
I loved the first book in this series so much that I immediately started listening to this one. Love Me, Lord Tender was a novella however Nothing But a Rakehell is much longer at 246 pages/6 hrs 54 mins.
Lady Glory has a limp from a childhood accident which causes her to be ridiculed and stared at. Keswick has a very poor reputation and, as enchanted as he is by Glory, feels he’s not worthy and rejects all of her advances. But Glory is persistent and wants Keswick to teach her things…
Besides the love story between Lady Glory and the Earl of Keswick, there’s a bit of a mystery started that won’t be solved in this story. I don’t consider it a cliffhanger because the mystery of the stolen fossil isn’t the main focus at all.
Once again, the most excellent performance by Siobhan Waring kept me glued to this audiobook from start to finish and now I’m moving on to book three!
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 5
Fantastic audio performance and I loved the story.
This is my second book by Deb Marlowe and I could almost copy my review of Love Me, Lord Tender word for word but I’ll try not to do that. 😊
I loved the first book in this series so much that I immediately started listening to this one. Love Me, Lord Tender was a novella however Nothing But a Rakehell is much longer at 246 pages/6 hrs 54 mins.
Lady Glory has a limp from a childhood accident which causes her to be ridiculed and stared at. Keswick has a very poor reputation and, as enchanted as he is by Glory, feels he’s not worthy and rejects all of her advances. But Glory is persistent and wants Keswick to teach her things…
Besides the love story between Lady Glory and the Earl of Keswick, there’s a bit of a mystery started that won’t be solved in this story. I don’t consider it a cliffhanger because the mystery of the stolen fossil isn’t the main focus at all.
Once again, the most excellent performance by Siobhan Waring kept me glued to this audiobook from start to finish and now I’m moving on to book three!
March 25, 2020
This new book series from Deb Marlowe is alive and refreshing. The characters were unique and fun with quite the personalities! I found myself rooting for the heroine not just because of her “flaw” but because she was witty, talented and yet humble. Next to Hestia from the Half Moon Series, she might go down as one of my favorite heroines. And let's not forget the hero, Keswick. He was charming and funny but you could tell that deep down he had a big heart despite his flaws. Watching their relationship evolve to something more was addictive.
The storylines that go on with Glory’s sister and all those who came from London to Gloucestershire were entertaining. I especially liked the relationship Glory and her sister shared. The combination of all of these creative storylines made this a quick read……one that I did not want to end. Please can we see a little more from Glory and Kes?
The storylines that go on with Glory’s sister and all those who came from London to Gloucestershire were entertaining. I especially liked the relationship Glory and her sister shared. The combination of all of these creative storylines made this a quick read……one that I did not want to end. Please can we see a little more from Glory and Kes?
March 22, 2021
Wonderful! Glory and Kes both thought they weren’t lovable; Glory because of a leg injury when she was young, and Kes because of his rakehell reputation and the darkness within. They meet at a house party thrown by her sister and his close friend. They make a pact to help each other navigate the pitfalls of the party. This book is fraught with emotional introspection, trust issues, manipulation and societal prejudice. Glory’s character blossoms into a steadfast, loyal, complete woman; while Kes learns that vulnerability does not always equate to weakness. The villians in this story are determined to get their own way, by any means necessary, leaving the reader to wonder at their cruelty. This is a well written, lengthy story that will take you on emotional highs and lows, as it winds its way to a most fulfilling conclusion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2023
In Nothing but a Rakehell, book 2 in the series A Series of Unconventional Courtships by Deb Marlowe, we meet Lady Glory and Keswick. Lady Glory is sister to Lady Hope from the first book, and the story takes place in her home so we get time with Lady Hope and Lord Tensford which is wonderful.
Lady Glory has a deformity and is self-conscious, rightly so as we hear how horribly she has been treated in the past. Keswick sees the fire in her and is enamored from the start, but his past and a dysfunctional family keep him from believing he can be happy - in fact, he is pretty sure that he is cursed and wants to save Lady Glory from being touched by that curse. Lady Glory is determined and the story that unfolds is fun and poignant.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading more in the series.
Lady Glory has a deformity and is self-conscious, rightly so as we hear how horribly she has been treated in the past. Keswick sees the fire in her and is enamored from the start, but his past and a dysfunctional family keep him from believing he can be happy - in fact, he is pretty sure that he is cursed and wants to save Lady Glory from being touched by that curse. Lady Glory is determined and the story that unfolds is fun and poignant.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading more in the series.
March 14, 2021
Nothing But a Rakehell (A Series of Unconventional Courtships Book 2) by Deb Marlowe is another fun and sweet Regency Romance. This is book 2 in the series but it can be read as a standalone. This book is about Lady Glory Brightley, sister of Lady Hope, now Lady Tensford, and the Earl of Keswick, Lord Tensford's friend. Lord Keswick has come to this house party to hide and a slow friendship with Lady Glory simmers to romance. This is a slow to simmer, friends to lovers trope with a physically damaged heroine and an emotionally scarred hero.
I enjoyed revisiting the characters from the first book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed revisiting the characters from the first book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2021
Due to a childhood injury Lady Glory Brightly walks with a severe limp. She prefers the country to London due to the cruelty of her peers. However her sister Hope, Lady Tensford has decided to launch Glory into society with a house party.
Glory is dreading her sister's party and socialising with her peers until she meets Colm, Earl of Keswick who is trying to escape his father, a marriage minded debutante and his own demons. He finds a kindred spirit in Glory and soon friendship turns into attraction until Colm's demons catch up with him. Colm pushes Glory away to save her and she must come up with a plan to save him and possibly herself.
Glory is dreading her sister's party and socialising with her peers until she meets Colm, Earl of Keswick who is trying to escape his father, a marriage minded debutante and his own demons. He finds a kindred spirit in Glory and soon friendship turns into attraction until Colm's demons catch up with him. Colm pushes Glory away to save her and she must come up with a plan to save him and possibly herself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2021
3.5 stars. I loved Glory and her transformation, she became so much more, changing into a strong young woman. My heart broke for Keswick. He had been emotionally abused by his bully of a father. Actually there was another bully after Keswick. But Keswick grew as they got closer to a very hard won HEA. I did want to like this book, the writing is very smooth, but it was just too steamy for me.
It was nice to see Hope and Tensford again; their HEA is in the first book in the series. And Miss Munroe is the set up for book 3.
I did not think the bullies got their just desserts, which lost half star. And lost another star for steaminess.
It was nice to see Hope and Tensford again; their HEA is in the first book in the series. And Miss Munroe is the set up for book 3.
I did not think the bullies got their just desserts, which lost half star. And lost another star for steaminess.
June 20, 2023
This one is a full length novel, so a bit more twists and turns before the end, but it was as feel-good and charming as book 1. Keswick and Glory met in the most unconventional way, and their friendship continued in the same way. It was upsetting to see how Glory was treated over her limp, but I was thrilled to see her find her confidence. Same with Keswick, who had his own battle to win in order to see his own worth. They really were a matched pair who understood each other in a way that others could not.
I really liked that Deb Marlowe's characters can talk to each other. They may not be ready to say everything there is to say, but they don't avoid topics because of it.
I really liked that Deb Marlowe's characters can talk to each other. They may not be ready to say everything there is to say, but they don't avoid topics because of it.
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