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How to Choose the Perfect Scoundrel
The advertisement Widows in search of rogues for temporary liaison
In London, there is an exclusive ladies' club where widows can go for refuge. Mrs. Ada Givens had been feeling the sting of loneliness, so her friend, and fellow widow, convinces her to apply to Matron Manor. But Maggie isn’t there to make friendships. Instead, she’s set on mischief and when she places an ad in the paper, gentlemen come knocking—and Ada is forced to deal with the damage. The last thing she needs is another man. She lost the one love of her life to a devastating accident, and she is certain that lightning doesn't strike twice.
Enter Mr. Brandt Clarke. He’s trying to deal with a new addition to his current circumstances, and seeks refuge one evening in the midst of a violent thunderstorm on his way back to the city. The moment he sets sights on Ada, he vows to make her his own. She's immediately set against any sort of affair with him, or anyone else, but there's something between them that can't be denied. One night of passion soon leads to more, but will Ada accept anything more permanent?
In London, there is an exclusive ladies' club where widows can go for refuge. Mrs. Ada Givens had been feeling the sting of loneliness, so her friend, and fellow widow, convinces her to apply to Matron Manor. But Maggie isn’t there to make friendships. Instead, she’s set on mischief and when she places an ad in the paper, gentlemen come knocking—and Ada is forced to deal with the damage. The last thing she needs is another man. She lost the one love of her life to a devastating accident, and she is certain that lightning doesn't strike twice.
Enter Mr. Brandt Clarke. He’s trying to deal with a new addition to his current circumstances, and seeks refuge one evening in the midst of a violent thunderstorm on his way back to the city. The moment he sets sights on Ada, he vows to make her his own. She's immediately set against any sort of affair with him, or anyone else, but there's something between them that can't be denied. One night of passion soon leads to more, but will Ada accept anything more permanent?
- GenresHistorical Romance
115 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
13 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Tabetha Waite
96 books810 followersTabetha Waite is a small-town Missouri girl who grew up with big dreams of being a published author after her fourth-grade teacher said she liked reading her stories. She began her journey by putting pen to paper writing anything from fantasy to mystery, before graduating to an old Underwood typewriter. It wasn’t until she started high school that her grandmother introduced her to the classic, Gothic novels. As her love of romance grew to encompass Harlequins, it wasn’t until she read “Midnight Bride” by Kathleen Drymon that she developed a fascination for historical England. After discovering the allure of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, she was hooked!
It wasn’t until 30 years and 63 rejections later that her debut novel, “Why the Earl is After the Girl,” the first book in her Ways of Love series was picked up for publication by Etopia Press and released in July of 2016 to critical acclaim. Since then, she has become a hybrid author with books previously released with Soul Mate Publishing, WOLF Publishing, and Dragonblade, as well as transitioning into Indie. She has won several awards for her books and has been an Amazon bestseller.
When she’s not writing, Tabetha is reading as true bookworms do, or checking out any flea market, antique mall, or doll show she comes across.
You can find her on most any social media site and she encourages fans of her work to join her mailing list to learn more about upcoming novels or events.
www.authortabethawaite.wix.com/romance
It wasn’t until 30 years and 63 rejections later that her debut novel, “Why the Earl is After the Girl,” the first book in her Ways of Love series was picked up for publication by Etopia Press and released in July of 2016 to critical acclaim. Since then, she has become a hybrid author with books previously released with Soul Mate Publishing, WOLF Publishing, and Dragonblade, as well as transitioning into Indie. She has won several awards for her books and has been an Amazon bestseller.
When she’s not writing, Tabetha is reading as true bookworms do, or checking out any flea market, antique mall, or doll show she comes across.
You can find her on most any social media site and she encourages fans of her work to join her mailing list to learn more about upcoming novels or events.
www.authortabethawaite.wix.com/romance
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
October 7, 2023
Eh. I liked the start, but dragged on for something only 115 pages. It felt a bit disjointed; it was rushed at some moments, but overly drawn out in others. There’s a cute story in here, but it was a little lost in the quagmire. I think more could’ve led to their first tryst rather than dealing with more of the “I can’t marry you” stuff that was the majority of the book.
June 25, 2023
4.5 Stars
In London, there is an exclusive ladies' club where widows can go for refuge. Mrs. Ada Givens had been feeling the sting of loneliness, so her friend, and fellow widow, convinces her to apply to Matron Manor. But Maggie isn’t there to make friendships. Instead, she’s set on mischief and when she places an ad in the paper, gentlemen come knocking and Ada is forced to deal with the damage.
Enter Mr. Brandt Clarke. He’s trying to deal with a new addition to his current circumstances, and seeks refuge one evening in the midst of a violent thunderstorm on his way back to the city. The moment he sets sights on Ada, he vows to make her his own.
Another lovely romance from the author & a great addition to this multiauthor series. I loved both Brand & Ada, it was pleasing to see that Ada was older than Brandt. He falls hard & fast for Ada & whilst she attracted she’s not looking to remarry especially as she & her husband were struck by lightning, he was killed & she’s been left to have the occasional ‘spell’. I loved their journey to a HEA, which didn’t happen overnight but was worth waiting for
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
In London, there is an exclusive ladies' club where widows can go for refuge. Mrs. Ada Givens had been feeling the sting of loneliness, so her friend, and fellow widow, convinces her to apply to Matron Manor. But Maggie isn’t there to make friendships. Instead, she’s set on mischief and when she places an ad in the paper, gentlemen come knocking and Ada is forced to deal with the damage.
Enter Mr. Brandt Clarke. He’s trying to deal with a new addition to his current circumstances, and seeks refuge one evening in the midst of a violent thunderstorm on his way back to the city. The moment he sets sights on Ada, he vows to make her his own.
Another lovely romance from the author & a great addition to this multiauthor series. I loved both Brand & Ada, it was pleasing to see that Ada was older than Brandt. He falls hard & fast for Ada & whilst she attracted she’s not looking to remarry especially as she & her husband were struck by lightning, he was killed & she’s been left to have the occasional ‘spell’. I loved their journey to a HEA, which didn’t happen overnight but was worth waiting for
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 2, 2023
How To Choose the Perfect Scoundrel. Be still my beating heart, because this story reminded me of why I love romance novels. Ada and Brandt certainly went through their share of troubles before realizing that sometimes you just have to that blind leap. Once again I was drawn into a story that captivated my attention. The story read very well for me.
The plot connected with the characters and me. I found the story to focus mainly around the romance of Ada and Brandt. I loved how Brandt pursued Ada to the end. His passion for Ada made his character stand out more than the other characters. I’m not saying Arabella didn’t do a great job her self in some instances.
The story is an easy reader that I know you will love to read. The characters Ada and Brandt speaks to the soul of being in love and how two people work hard at making it work. I give this story two snaps and a, twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The plot connected with the characters and me. I found the story to focus mainly around the romance of Ada and Brandt. I loved how Brandt pursued Ada to the end. His passion for Ada made his character stand out more than the other characters. I’m not saying Arabella didn’t do a great job her self in some instances.
The story is an easy reader that I know you will love to read. The characters Ada and Brandt speaks to the soul of being in love and how two people work hard at making it work. I give this story two snaps and a, twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2023
Ada & Brandt are lovely. I do love a good ‘he falls first’ story. Immediately taken with the lovely widow he begins a quest to break down her walls. She is so guarded because of past tragedies, her pain is palpable. The fact that he refuses to give up is so endearing. And the connection between Ada and young Arabella is so touching. The ongoing connection of the Wicked Widows League creates a wonderful world of familiarity. A truly charming story.
June 13, 2023
Another great story from Tabetha Waite.
This story has an element that hits close to home for me and that so many people don't understand seizures (epilepsy)
She doesn't want to remarry or be around others for fear they will ask how she lost her husband and how is it she survived and for fear she will have an episode that will scare anyone. she only trusts those at the Matron Manor with her secrets. But then when a gentleman comes into her life with a beautiful little girl who is hard to resist, she finds that she can find love and happiness again despite her losses and her condition.
He wants a mother figure for his daughter and he thought he was going to have to search for one until he happened upon a stunning widow who matches everything he is looking for in not only a mother for his daughter but as having the same type of marriage his parents had, a love match something he thought he wouldn't have after experiencing a terrible event in Egypt.
With the help of rambunctious bubbly outgoing little girl and her need for guidance through the world, they find that they both needed healing and along the way they find themselves falling in love.
These two characters and the little girl are absolutely amazing. I enjoyed this story from the moment I started it to the moment I finished it.
I look forward to the next book from Tabetha.
I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for a voluntary review and this is based solely off of my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
This story has an element that hits close to home for me and that so many people don't understand seizures (epilepsy)
She doesn't want to remarry or be around others for fear they will ask how she lost her husband and how is it she survived and for fear she will have an episode that will scare anyone. she only trusts those at the Matron Manor with her secrets. But then when a gentleman comes into her life with a beautiful little girl who is hard to resist, she finds that she can find love and happiness again despite her losses and her condition.
He wants a mother figure for his daughter and he thought he was going to have to search for one until he happened upon a stunning widow who matches everything he is looking for in not only a mother for his daughter but as having the same type of marriage his parents had, a love match something he thought he wouldn't have after experiencing a terrible event in Egypt.
With the help of rambunctious bubbly outgoing little girl and her need for guidance through the world, they find that they both needed healing and along the way they find themselves falling in love.
These two characters and the little girl are absolutely amazing. I enjoyed this story from the moment I started it to the moment I finished it.
I look forward to the next book from Tabetha.
I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for a voluntary review and this is based solely off of my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
June 27, 2023
Ada is a widow who is staying at Matron Manor, which is a club where widows can go to be themselves find refuge and friendships. She has no interest in love or marriage, until she meets Brandt Clarke, a charming and adventurous younger man who storms into her life during a thunderstorm. He is determined to win her over, but she is reluctant to give him more than a night of passion. Will they find their happily ever after, or will their differences keep them apart? Ada is a strong and independent heroine who has been hurt by loss and doesn’t want to risk her heart again. Brandt is a charming and playful hero who has a zest for life and a soft spot for Ada. Their romance is full of witty banter, emotional moments, and sizzling scenes.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance with a dash of spice and a lot of heart. It’s a fun and enjoyable read that will make you smile. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance with a dash of spice and a lot of heart. It’s a fun and enjoyable read that will make you smile. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
June 19, 2023
When widow Ada Givens is in charge of managing The Matrons Manor she didn't want to let Mr Brandt Clarke in. But it was raining so hard she gave in. When she couldn't sleep later than night she went down to the library to find something to read. Instead she found Brandt there and they quickly engaged in more than reading. Brandt immediately saw an answer to the problem of raising his new ward and proposed.
While she refused his offer of marriage she did meet his daughter, Arabella, and offered to help her learn how to act in public. While Brandt and his daughter were wiggling their way into her heart she still refused his proposal. She and her husband had been struck by lightning. He was killed and she was left to have intermittent spells. She felt that this was unacceptable in a mother for Arabella
Is their love enough to conquer her fears? Can Brandt convince her that lightning has struck again?
When the happily ever after comes it is worth the wait.
While she refused his offer of marriage she did meet his daughter, Arabella, and offered to help her learn how to act in public. While Brandt and his daughter were wiggling their way into her heart she still refused his proposal. She and her husband had been struck by lightning. He was killed and she was left to have intermittent spells. She felt that this was unacceptable in a mother for Arabella
Is their love enough to conquer her fears? Can Brandt convince her that lightning has struck again?
When the happily ever after comes it is worth the wait.
June 29, 2023
How to Choose the Perfect Scoundrel by Tabetha Waite is the newest release in the multi-author Wicked Widows’ League series.
In her story we meet Ada and Brandt, both of whom have suffered losses. Ada is determined to remain a widow for the rest of her life, but Brandt feels an instant connection to her and resolves to keep her in his life. Luckily for Brandt, he has an adorable daughter to help him with his quest.
I enjoyed Ada and Brandt’s story. I loved how Ms. Waite wrote the character of Arabella. Her temper tantrums made me laugh. I also appreciated how considerate Brandt was of Ada’s well-being. Would I have liked more steam? Yes, but there’s only so much steam that can be believably written into a novella. I’m looking forward to Ms. Waite’s next book!
I received an ARC from the author. The thoughts expressed above are my own.
In her story we meet Ada and Brandt, both of whom have suffered losses. Ada is determined to remain a widow for the rest of her life, but Brandt feels an instant connection to her and resolves to keep her in his life. Luckily for Brandt, he has an adorable daughter to help him with his quest.
I enjoyed Ada and Brandt’s story. I loved how Ms. Waite wrote the character of Arabella. Her temper tantrums made me laugh. I also appreciated how considerate Brandt was of Ada’s well-being. Would I have liked more steam? Yes, but there’s only so much steam that can be believably written into a novella. I’m looking forward to Ms. Waite’s next book!
I received an ARC from the author. The thoughts expressed above are my own.
June 15, 2023
I was extremely fortunate to receive an ARC of How to Choose the Perfect Scoundrel from the fabulous Tabetha Waite. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This story starts off as spectacularly as expected. Mrs. Ada Givens, a 37 years old widow gets an unexpected visitor, Mr. Brandt Clarke, during a storm while she is resting at a manor dedicated to the welfare of widows. Their one chance encounter is full of sparks as well as one night of unexpected romance. When next they meet again, Ada is hesitant to move forward in any relationship with Brandt because of her fear of losing loved ones. This is a beautifully written second chance at and for love story.
June 18, 2023
Ada is a widow who is staying at Matron Manor, which is a club where widows can go to be themselves. Brandt has a 4-year-old daughter he just found out about when he returned to England. On a trip Brandt ran into a bad storm and met Ada when he asked to seek shelter at Matron Manor. As soon as Brandt meets Ada, he decides she was the one for him. There are some obstacles which make Ada never want to marry again, but Brandt never gives up. This was a well written story which I read in one afternoon and enjoyed it.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
August 13, 2024
This is a fun, entertaining read. Brandt and Ada are relatable, intriguing, complex, wounded, interesting, entertaining characters. I enjoyed their romance and the path it took to get to their HEA. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. Waite packs a lot into less than 120 pages. The story is easy to read and get into. Another good read in the Wicked Widows’ League world.
June 28, 2023
Tabetha Waite will always have a special place to me as I actually met her and had lunch with her. This is my 32nd book by her and I started reading her back in June, 2020. Her book, The Rapscallion’s Romance (Wanton Wastrels Book 1) is on my all time favorite reads list.
This was a cute read but way too short!
This was a cute read but way too short!
July 2, 2023
Ada became a widow when she and her husband were caught in a storm and struck by lightning. She found refuge at Matron Manor, the home of the “Wicked Widows.” One stormy night while she is serving as manager of the Manor, Brandt Clarke arrives at the door, soaked to the bone. They are attracted to each other immediately. Ada wants to have a brief affair, but Brandt wants to make it permanent. Will there be a happily ever after in their future? Ada and Brandt have a touching and entertaining story with an adventurous hero, a cautious heroine, an adorable little girl named Arabella, witty banter, uncertainty and emotion, a romance with some sizzle, and a happy ending. Lovely story.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 27, 2023
Which path to take?
This was a wonderful tale of will they/won’t they.
They meet by chance during a storm and enjoy a little interlude, before Ada tells him to get out. Brandt has his work cut out in order to secure their future happiness, but love wins in the end.
This was a wonderful tale of will they/won’t they.
They meet by chance during a storm and enjoy a little interlude, before Ada tells him to get out. Brandt has his work cut out in order to secure their future happiness, but love wins in the end.
September 13, 2023
Sweet Story!
Way too short!! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. I loved the characters and storyline so much. Ada being so heartbroken made her stronger. Brandt came along at the right time. On to “A Scandal with a Scoundrel“. 💜💜💜💜💜
Way too short!! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. I loved the characters and storyline so much. Ada being so heartbroken made her stronger. Brandt came along at the right time. On to “A Scandal with a Scoundrel“. 💜💜💜💜💜
December 25, 2024
A captivating romance and another great story within the Wicked Widows' League series. An undeniable connection between Ada and Brandt leads to a wonderful happily ever after.
July 5, 2023
Absolutely loved Brandt and Ada's steamy and passionate story. Brandt needs help with his new found daughter who is both unruly and disruptive. Ada is trying to stop rogues and rakes from descending on Matron Manor, until Brandt lands on the Manor's doorstep in the midst of a thunderstorm. Ada lost her husband due to a lightning strike an strike that ended up with her having seizures. Their unlikely meeting leads to a steamy passionate encounter that neither can forget. Their encounters involve proposals, antics and passion. Will Ada give Brandt a chance or will she hide at the Manor forever.
June 27, 2023
This was a quick, steamy read with a reverse age gap and a he-falls-first trope. I had a little trouble believing that Ada would behave as she did with Brandt the first time she met him, but Waite made it fit with the story she was telling. I enjoyed this entry in the Wicked Widows League.
Thanks to the author for an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thanks to the author for an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 5, 2023
Lovely story of Mr. Brandt Clarke and Mrs. Ada Givens, neither looking for spouses, but can't help the attraction. Once again, wonderful writing from this author, and a very enjoyable read. Highly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews