Not Quite A Gentleman

Regency #3

by Jacquie D'Alessandro

Nathan Oliver, younger son of an earl, is content being a country doctor. Years ago he had worked for the Crown, but when a spy mission went awry, he left London for a simpler life. Now his world is turned upside down with the arrival of Lady Victoria Wexhall, a pampered Society miss more suited for the ballrooms of London than the quiet countryside of Cornwall.

Victoria cannot believe her father would send her to the middle of nowhere, and just when the the Season was in full swing! And with Nathan Oliver, no less! Of course, he's dashing and more interesting than the fops she's acquainted with in Town, and it would be so easy to fall in love with him. But why does he insist on searching through her luggage in the middle of the night? And why does he insist their lives are in danger?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Regency, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance, Fiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

About the author

Jacquie D'Alessandro grew up on Long Island and fell in love with romance at an early age. She dreamed of being swept away by a dashing rogue riding a spirited stallion. When Joe, her hero finally showed up, he was dressed in jeans and driving a Volkswagen, but she recognized him anyway. They married after they both graduated from Hofstra University, and are now living their happily-ever-after in Atlanta, Georgia, along with their very bright and active son, Christopher, alias "Junior", who is a dashing rogue in the making.

Reviews

[♥ℳelody · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The way this book bored me at parts and delight me at others. Hmm. If the overall plot and pacing was a bit better I probably have enjoyed it more consistently overall. Or not. Maybe. Spy stories are not my thing so it did kind of work against this one but I'm willing to give JDA another go since her hand at humor and well rounded characters is not bad. Spoiled, pampered Lady Victoria ended up being likable and pulled at my heartstrings near the end. It takes a lot to surprise me at this point and her character development and depth surprised me. Also, Nathan's menagerie of pets who have names? Petunia the goat, Harold the hog, B.C. the dog. Delightful and hilarious.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jacquie D'Allesandro is a author that I have been reading since I first became hooked on romance. Whenever I see her name, I always think of her fondly, because her books are always fun and full of
adventure and unique plots that you don't see right away. I haven't had the chance to read her a ton though, but Not Quite A Gentleman has been on my TBR pile for quite some time and so I decided that I would try to bring that pile a inch or two lower by picking this one up from the shelves. I am very glad that I did.

This story is one that involves a ex spy doctor who tends to collect animals wherever he goes. His match in every way: the ever proud Lady Victoria Wexhall. Victoria first meets Nathan, when he steals a kiss that changes her life, but never to see him again. Now its been three years, and their lives are much different. Nathan is no longer a spy working for her father, he has been "forced" to resign over something that wasn't his fault, but was accused anyway...not he is a country doctor, content with his life. Until he learns that Victoria's life is in danger, and only Nathan can protect her, and seeing her again might lead him back into a life of redemption. There are some missing jewels, that he lost by a unknown enemy, three years ago, jewels that belong to the Crown. His mission now: Protect Victoria and find those missing jewels, believed to be in the area. So Victoria and Nathan join forces, and a passion erupts between them. Neither Nathan or Victoria really want to be attracted to each other...but each time they kiss...its like magic and they can't resist how the fireworks that seem to erupt when they are near each other.

I love historical espionage romances...they are so fun to read at times..especially when one is in the mood for them. Which at the time I was reading this, I was in the mood for it. I was hoping that this would be a story to remember...and it certainly was. There was many things that I enjoyed about this story, but there was a couple of things I did have some issues with. The flow of the story...I wish it was as smooth as whipped cream, but I am sorry to say it wasn't like that. I had a hard time sometimes keeping up with the story. After I finished the book, it seemed like overall, it didn't have a smooth flow of story line that I am used to, so it tended to be a bit rough around the edges but I found the story itself to be enchanting. The plot was evenly paced, I didn't feel like it was too slow going, or too quickly moving...just right. It was a perfect read for a nice crisp fall morning. I really enjoyed the sensual encounters between Nathan and Victoria...much more erotic than I would expect...but they were playful too. It was interesting seeing these two learn each other both physically and emotionally....seeing them really build up a relationship, and what a romance this turned out to be. Phenomenal in every way.

The characters themselves...were just fantastic, I had no issues with either of them. In fact, I liked them both really well. Another problem I had with the book, was I wasn't able to connect with the characters fully in the way I enjoy doing most of the time. They were both really well developed and they had fun interactions...but I guess I couldn't connect with them 100% and that detracted enjoyment I would normally get. However saying that...I want to say I really loved both Nathan and Victoria. Nathan...well he is the type of hero to make you whimper....I loved him!! He is such a romantic...you would never see a ex spy and practical doctor being so sentimental at times...and I loved the way he wooed Victoria. It was endearing and I just wished I could trade places with the heroine so I could experience a bit of courting, that was so romantic...I wanted to cry in envy. Now onto Victoria....so is a good match for Nathan. She doesn't hold anything back and I really liked that quality about her. She is very upfront and loyal and I really felt I could admire her. The only thing I would change is wishing that she would fight for Nathan a bit more...I don't want to spoil the story, but I do wish she had been a bit more challenging in that regard.

Overall I found Not Quite a Gentleman to be a story of redemption, spicy romance, throw in some suspense and mystery....and you have a delightful love story that is bound to give you tingles and a smile on your face!! ORIGINAL AND EXCITING!!

[Maureen Feeney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read this in one sitting.

Lady Victoria Wexhall is out for revenge, three years ago Dr Nathan Oliver gave her a mind blowing kiss and Victoria waited for him to call or court her but she never saw him again. Victoria's father has sent her to Olivers family estate in Cornwall to think about the marraige proposals she has recieved and to contemplate her future. Victoria with the help of the scandalous book "The Ladies Guide" sees this as a great opportunity to exact her revenge on Nathan, by kissing Nathan and after making him want her to just walk away.

Dr Nathan Oliver was a spy for the crown working under Victorias father, when 3 years ago a mission went wrong and his brother and friend were wounded and jewels went missing and Nathan is blamed for betraying the mission. Hurt at the lack of faith of his family and friends, he left home and became a doctor in a small town. When Victorias father tells him he has information that may clear his name and that it is hidden in Victorias luggage, Nathan returns home after 3 years.

I loved this book, Nathan is a hero every woman wants, he is kind sensual and funny . I also liked Victoria but thought her a bit shallow at times. I don't really like the spy theme but it is done brilliantly here and the sexual tension between our H/H is great. Did I mention Nathan (sigh)? Although he is mentioned in the previous book "Love and The Single Heiress", it is only briefly and doesn't do him credit. His brother Colin's story is next in "Never A Lady".

[Ariadna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book completely blind. I had never heard of this author so I had no clue what her writing style or plots are like but despite this I think it worked in my favour. I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful language and way D'Alessandro paints her scenes out. This historical romance took me longer than most books, even though it wasn't particularly long, however this contributed to my love for this story. It made me create a special bond with the characters and they felt almost like my friends/family. If you're not a big fan of cheesy romances then this will not be the book for you as it was filled with swoon worthy scenes and big sloppy displays of affection which my big romantic heart ate up. This is for sure going to be a historical romance/book that I'll remember and cherish forever. I am also 100% certain that I will be rereading this book in the future. If you own this book the stepback is also gorgeous and one of my favourites ever. I will never stop loving this book.

[Desi · Rating 3 out of 5]

leído en Agosto 2012

Estuvo entretenido!!

[Gemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book because it's written by Jacquie D'Alessandro, and ever since I read THE BRIDE THIEF, she's been on my auto-buy list. Her Regency romances are almost always wonderfully romantic, have a good pace to the plot, focuses on the relationship between hero and heroine, and are populated by humorous and loveable characters.

But I felt that NOT QUITE A GENTLEMAN fell a little short of this author's marvelous talent. Usually, I find that she handles sexual tension in her romances very well. While her stories undoubtly sizzle, usually the sex isn't the only thing driving the romance. Unfortunately, in this story, I was never really able to feel connected to the characters, and really felt like sex was all that was pulling them together and keeping them as a couple. There didn't seem to be any other connection between them except for overactive libidos. It just felt a little overdone. After a while, I was skipping pages of love scenes and rolling my eyes, muttering "for Pete's sake, are they at it AGAIN?" And that's not really what you want in a romance.

Don't get me wrong, I don't have a problem with sex in romance. Properly handled sexual attraction between the hero and heroine is crucial for good romantic chemistry and relationship tension. But there needs to be more than just overactive hormones to make the relationship feel real and lasting.

I felt that the heroine's rather casual attitude towards an affair was not really believable, considering the time period. A lady of her station would have had proper behavior strictures pounded into her head since birth. I just felt that the way the heroine was able to turn her back on her upbringing without any regrets or second thoughts was not very realistic. Especially when she's planning to marry someone else later down the road. If it were ever discovered that she was no longer a virgin, her marriage prospects would have been nil.

I also didn't like that an unplanned pregnancy never seemed to be an issue, either. It was never discussed, even though the encounters between the hero and heroine were many and their affair lasted for a week. Considering that a child out of wedlock would have absolutely RUINED the heroine's life (she would probably have been kicked out on the streets to starve or make her living in a brothel), I just found it unrealistic and rather irresponsible.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that this is a horrible book; it isn't. I never had to force myself to finish it. But it just didn't leave me very satisfied, and it's the first time that I won't be keeping one of D'Alessandro's novels. Maybe I just expected too much, because this author has written so many fabulous books in the past. I highly recommend THE BRIDE THIEF, WHO WILL TAKE THIS MAN? and LOVE AND SINGLE HEIRESS, for examples of just what this author is capable of. Those books leave this one in the dust.

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE PACING FOR THIS STORY WAS GLORIOUS! THE ROMANCE WAS REAL AND SIMMERING WITH PASSION AT EVERY LINE, IT MADE ME BREATHLESS.

OUR HERO is the second son of an Earl and a doctor by profession. 3 years ago, he was accused for betraying the trust of his brother Colin, and friend Gordon, as well as his father when he was entrusted to hand over some important jewels to our heroine's father. Those jewels were extremely important to the crown and because someone betrayed HIM, pining him as the bad guy, his reputation is tarnished and he resigned from being a spy. Now, he lives in Cornwall, taking care of his increasing menagerie and currently, he's assigned to protect our heroine from whatever trouble is brewing in London. Just so you know, he works closely with the heroine's father. Years ago, when he first met Victoria, their attraction was beyond extraordinary and the kiss they shared lingers at the back of his mind. And the worse thing is, he thought that he could just resist her because she's like all those city daughters who only care about their beauty, society gossip and can't even lift her own finger. Nathan is blown away when the more time spent with her, the more he unveils the truth that she's so much more than that - warm, caring, passionate and even vulnerable, he aches to hold and protect her. It doesn't take a smart-ass to see that he's smitten with her and not just the temporary fix kind but the forever kind.

OUR HEROINE is fuming with the memory of the man who gave her her first kiss and then disappeared for years. Now, her father is sending her to his family home and she has no clue why. When she finds Nathan snooping in her room, and her belongings she gets the truth of WHY and what's really going on. Apparently her father is entangled in some risky espionage business and Nathan himself is a retired spy. Encouraged by her new plan in life, that is to be a Modern Woman who takes charge of her life, she wants in on what's going on and I won't lie and say that wasn't an annoying move on her part, but if she didn't insinuate herself in Nathan's life...we wouldn't have much of a story now. I rather like Victoria, because she's not spoil and she understands Nathan more than he realises, and that's important for me as a reader - being able to see the characters truly get along well and love one another.

OVERALL this book may not be a BEST-SELLING AUTHOR smack dab shit, but it's good in a wholesome manner. If you are looking for a WORTHY and MEANINGFUL romance with a load of passion, without LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT bullshit and over the top LUST, then this is a perfect story for you to enjoy. The characters were quite 3-dimensional and NOT SHALLOW, and the plot is quite acceptable too. LOVED IT.

[Nanette · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it was written and well developed except the mystery of the jewel. That and the villain felt tacked on. They felt undeveloped and very convenient starting after they've been stolen with no explanation as to why they were even a mission. Nonetheless, i did enjoy it mostly because of the characters and the interesting developments between them all. The villain was also felt tack on

[Amanda]

Just not that interested in this honestly. I like when a romance heroine wants to punish a guy who she feels wronged her but idk how seducing that guy is punishment. I know this is a big trope but I find it exhausting

[SLW · Rating 3 out of 5]

6.5

[Wemdu · Rating 3 out of 5]

[audio book] Mary Sarah (narrator - 3-3.5 stars) relatively good distinguishing between characters; narrative between dialogue is read in a soft dreamy cadence.
----

[Its Euphoric. · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was quite nice

[Shelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

The storyline was okay but the narrator was horrible. I had to increase the speed of the audiobook just to try and get through the way the narrator’s sing-songy diction and speech pattern.

[☂ · Rating 3 out of 5]

❤❤❤½

Nathan Oliver (featured in Love and the Single Heiress is the younger son and a lowly country doctor. He is sometimes paid in coin and other times paid in animals and as such he has amassed a small menagerie of pets. He also used to be a spy for the Crown and when a mission got his brother and best friend shot, and surrounded Nathan with suspicion he quit and moved to a small country town. He's returned to the estate after three years and though guilt dogs his every move he's hoping he can repair his family relations. There are problems. First, he's been charged with protecting Lady Victoria Wexhall, a spoiled brat from the city and the possessor of lips he kissed once and can't seem to forget. Her father has sent Victoria along with a note of the utmost importance in aiding Nathan with clearing his name. And that's the second problem because the vexing women was smart enough to find the letter but refuses to give it up. Well, it's his letter so he'll just have to go in search of it and if that means she's hidden it among her clothes or even on her person, well then that's where he must search.

Thanks to reading the liberating 'Ladies Guide' (featured in Love and the Single Heiress Lady Victoria Wexhall is growing a sense of self. She's asserting her desires, standing her ground and demanding to be heard. That comes in handy when she finds out that her father was in service to the Crown and the man she is seeking revenge on, the one who stole a kiss that left her weak kneed, was one of her father's most trusted spies. Victoria has a letter that Nathan wants and in order for him to get it he must meet her demands. This gives Victoria the perfect opportunity to get close, drive him wild then dump him like he did her.

So far this is the best of the series, yet I still feel like something is missing. Whatever it is could have made it great. There's a lot misdirection as far as the mystery and I'd say that you can't figure out who is the villian except after reading the first two books it's easier to guess. That's one reason I think there could be less repetition with in each book and among the books. Also, there are a good amount of similarities among the books and the result is that each story feels like less and less attention was given to them. I know that isn't the case though as D'Alessandro is a witty, charming and intelligent writer. I'd hate for you to not read her books based on my review(s) as I think she has written some of the better heroes and love stories. She also knows how to seduce her readers and make those seemingly minor moments really sparkle. I am not exaggerating on the seduction part. She's a master at the seductive moments. In this book there are several but Nathan's speech (in between touches and kisses) about how he's glad Victoria is a girl is really fantastic. There are many of these sexy and seductive yet playful moments. But there is a chronic recipe for how these 'Regency series' books play out and unfortunately any weakness that might exist becomes magnified once you've read the same tale again and again but told three slightly different ways. It took me four days to read a book that normally would taken between an afternoon to two days. I simply can't say what's missing from these stories though. It's just a slow then steady read with plenty of things to keep you entertained but often little to make it gripping. It's the small things that really matter in this series but the fact that it's the same small things over and over makes each book feel less genuine.

[D.C.A. Savia dcAsLeer · Rating 4 out of 5]

El médico rural hijo Segundo sin título que podría tener una vida muy acomodada, la besa para acallarla ante su parloteo nervioso por impactarlo en su cumpleaños 18vo. Pero no sólo ella sintió la magia.
Ella pretende vengarse pues fue el único que no pretendió cortejarla después de aquello, mientras que ella no pudo olvidarlo.

Él era espía hasta que fue traicionado.
Hablan del Gato con botas y sus moralejas frívolas acerca de la vestimenta del mendigo y la princesa. ¿Se habría enamorado del mendigo si hubiese aparecido con sus ropas pobres?
Ella le demuestra no ser la frívola princesita que él creía. Es inteligente y audaz. Se hace amiga de las bestias que componen sus mascotas de granja que son el pago de sus servicios de doctor.
Él le demuestra no ser el despreocupado rufián que ella cree.

Ilógicamente, un ex espía, le revela todo a una chica consentida (según cree) para que le entregue la carta codificada que le envió el padre de ella con información obtenida sobre el paradero de las joyas, en vez de ponerse firme y amenazarla de que estaba exigiendo información de La Corona y perdiendo valioso tiempo mientras corrían peligro las vidas de todos.

La Cabra de él se come el mapa y ella lo recrea pero no es exacto.

Mientras buscan las joyas de la traición a La Corona que demuestran que le tendieron una trampa, ella sigue la guía femenina al pie de la letra y le pide tocarlo cuando lo encuentra desnudo en la laguna y pretendía dejarlo sin ropas a modo de broma. Él la hace acabar en seco.

Ambos se enamoran, pero se despiden como si no tuvieran futuro juntos. Él le regala la valiosa copia de los cuentos del siglo XVII que le había regalado su madre y que a pesar de vivir al día, nunca quiso desprenderse por el valor sentimental que tenía.

Él le escribe una carta y se la da al padre para que se la dé al día siguiente después de haber tenido tiempo de meditar sus sentimientos. Pero al verla desconsolada sin poder reprimir el llanto, el padre se la entrega.
Ella vuelve y lo encuentra dos horas más tarde.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Regency romance with sex. The 3rd in the series. Copyright 2005. A favorite reread, but I haven't read it in a while.

This is another frothy, fun historical romance from JD. Dr. Nathan from the last book "Love And The Single Heiress" gets a story.

Turns out Dr. Nathan has led an exciting life as a spy for the Crown before settling into village life at Little Longstone. Last we saw him he was kissing Catherine & they mutually decided there were no sparks. How could there be? He kissed Victoria 3 years previously & there's been no one else who could give him "sparks" from a kiss.

Victoria is a typical society miss, who has that scandalous book, "A Ladies' Guide To The Pursuits Of Personal Happiness And Intimate Fulfillment". She's decided to get back at Dr. Nathan for kissing her & than leaving her 3 years ago. Her goal is to get him to fall for her so she can then spurn him.

There's a secondary love story between Victoria's aunt & Nathan's father that isn't very fleshed out. There's also a side plot about trying to find some missing jewels.
This is of course not a very realistic story, but still fun. The drama & angst is kept to a minimum.

The inside cover is typical romance novel. A couple, who don't really look like the described Victoria & Nathan kissing in a lake while wet. Steamy!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE/AUTHOR: NOT QUITE A GENTLEMAN by Jacquie D'Alessandro
RATING: 4/B
GENRE/PUB DATE/# OF PGS: Historical Romance, 2005, 360 Pgs
TIME/PLACE: Cornwall, UK, 1820
CHARACTERS: Nathan Oliver, country doctor; Lady Victoria Wexhall/
pampered society beauty
COMMENTS: Regency romance -- highlighted by some intrique w/ the mystery of the missing jewels involving Nathan & Victoria's father. Humor between the contrasting country doctor and the lady from the social set in London.

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just loved the first two books in this series, and really liked the fourth. This one? Just liked it. The beginning was good, as was the ending. The middle, though, did not hold my interest much. I loved Nathan and found him very sexy, funny and clever. For some reason that I can't put my finger on, I didn't care so much for Victoria. I just could not warm to her. Since I very much enjoyed the other books in the series, I will definitely read more of this writer's offerings.

[Roberta · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always enjoy a Jacquie D'Alessandro book. I met her at a Book Expo and she is beautiful enough to be one of the heroines in her own books. She is also gracious to her fans. Her Regency romances are well written, romantic, and for me, they have a good balance of sex and romance. Her characters are generally likable and there is usually some humor.

This book didn't trigger any of my pet peeves plus it was nice to have a hero who was not the typical rich lord.

[RIF · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow start. I think I would have liked a little more of their backstory to get to know where each was coming from beyond the superficial kiss when the were "reunited". Worth a read and I'll try more from this author though.

[Cecilia Rodriguez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lady Victoria Wexhall has a plan for revenge. Using a book's advice, Victoria plans to entice Nathan Oliver and then leave him cold.
Unfortunately for her, Nathan is more charming than she remembers.
Set in 1820 Cornwall, the story remains focused on the two lovers and a nice summer read.

[sakura_txell · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Not quite a gentleman" was a delight! From the start, I had a smile on my face while reading it! I even giggled a few times. I hadn't felt like this for a book in a very long time -- if ever. I can't wait to read the rest of the books of this series.

[I_love_a_happily_ever_after · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOVE it and, no I will not swap..this is a keeper

[Val · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not the best romance I ever read. This author follows a formula and it's painfully obvious. I read three of her books and never want to pick them up again. Pass on her and save yourself the time.

[L8blmr · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet and sexy romance, with an intelligent heroine, none of those cliche "misunderstandings" or deep dark secrets, and a very satisfying HEA. What's not to like?

[Sylvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Regency

[Lady Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's nice to read a Regency romance that has a hero who isn't rich and in this case, has a profession to boot (he's a doctor). The revenge and mystery/adventure themes made it a fun read.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good read.

[Wench · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sorry. I just could not finish this. It's just not doing it for me. And it's full of poor editing. And a poor plot line. And my life is too short.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

jacquie writes such heartwarming, humorous stories. i love re-reading them! : ) nathan & victoria are such fun!