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Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor

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From USA TODAY Bestselling author Christi Caldwell comes the return of the Scandalous Seasons Series. Be swept away in the passion, drama, and splendor of Regency England, where the ballrooms glitter and the dukes are sexy and brooding, and the ladies dare to love.

There have been two constants in Miss Anwen Kearsley’s one, she has always loved Phineas Lesar, the Marquess of Landon, her brother’s best friend. And two, like all her cursed relatives, she is fated to die young. Before she turns up her heels, Anwen plans to have a courtship from Phineas any way she can. She thinks it will be enough.

Phineas Lesar, the Marquess of Landon's rakish reputation precedes him. Unfortunately, so does his status as a gentleman on the edge of debtor's prison. He's now on borrowed time to find a wealthy bride. If that isn’t enough responsibility for a hapless rogue, he has Anwen Kearsley coming to him with a favor.

Phineas's loyalty to the Kearsley family puts him at cross-purposes with his own dire circumstances, and it’s only because Anwen is his best friend’s younger sister that he agrees to her scheme. Except, the more time he spends with Anwen, he begins to notice she is all grown up and spirited and…beautiful—certainly, all of London’s bachelors will be vying for her hand.

Soon Phineas finds himself...entranced by Anwen. There's a thousand reasons she can't be his. Is it too late for this rogue to reform? Or is there still time for him to become a man worthy of her?

Unfortunately for Anwen, time is the last thing she does have.

Scandalous Seasons
Forever Betrothed, Never the Bride
Never Courted, Suddenly Wed
Always Proper, Suddenly Scandalous,
Always a Rogue, Forever Her Love
A Marquess for Christmas
Once a Wallflower, At Last His Love

Endlessly Courted, Finally Loved
Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor (Coming September 2023)
Once Upon a Betrothal (Coming November 2023)

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 12, 2023

381 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

About the author

Christi Caldwell

135 books2,542 followers
USA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!

Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Elaine.
4,192 reviews93 followers
November 23, 2023
A rather lovely story. There were some parts better than others, but still was an interesting read. Loved the main characters. 4☆
Profile Image for Pam  Bereznak.
1,758 reviews127 followers
September 24, 2023
Christi Caldwell is definitely a favorite author. This is my 81st book by her. I read 2 of her books in 2013 but didn’t pick her up again to read faithfully until 2015. I just love her writing. She always has great stories and depending on the book, well written sex scenes.

I really enjoyed Anwen and Phineas' story. I liked the story concept. I loved their chemistry. Really liked this book.
Profile Image for Daira.
117 reviews
February 18, 2025
Muuuuy bueno. Me hubiera gustado que sea mas largo para poder disfrutar más la historia y el proceso de enamoramiento de los personajes, pero me gustó mucho igual.
1,103 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2024
4.5*

Have enjoyed all this series, so great to see familiar couples back again.
Anwen has loved Phineas, Marquess of Landon, her brothers best friend since she was a young girl. Having been dragged to her mothers fortune teller and heard the family curse may find her dead in the near future, Ameen decides to stop being a wall flower and go after what she wants - Phineas.
After being asked by both Anwen and her brother to keep her company during the season, and threatened by his aunt to marry or else, Phineas agrees to help Anwen catch the man of her dreams. But the more time he spends with her the more he remembers all the good times they've shared.

I hope Lord Wakefield finally meets his match soon. I may have to go back and re-read earlier books in the series to find more about him.

One anomaly in Marcia's book To Catch A Viscount, Anwen's brother is Viscount St James, in this book he's Viscount St John......
Profile Image for L J.
355 reviews4 followers
September 12, 2023
The Marquess of Landon, Lord Phineas Lesar is a rake. He has made an art of the lifestyle. His aunt, the dowager duchess, who supports him financially, has given him a final ultimatum: get married or be cut off from the funds he needs to avoid debtor's prison.
Miss Anwen Kearsley is the oldest of six lively daughters, all sisters of a Marquess who happens to be Phineas Lesar's best friend. She and her family members have a shared belief in a curse that allegedly dooms each of them to shortened lifespans due to individual tragedies.
Anwen has known and yearned for Phineas since she was a young girl. Now at twenty-seven, after living seven seasons as a corner hugging wallflower and perputal spinster, Anwen has decided she needs to live life. She must finally grab the brass ring that is Phineas' love requited, while she still has time.
One would think that a Marquess of Lesar's time would be a man of great consequence, but Phineas has made a mess of his life and lacks the self confidence to repair the damage. While he presents an aura of the charming rogue to the world, his internal monologue is less than optimistic. Anwen is a woman, who with the motivation provided by a fortune teller her mother frequently visits, sees her future as limited and is rushing toward it. She has decided she simply must not let life, or more importantly, love pass her by. It is this drive that leads her into some rather humorous situations, often with the assistance of her amusing siblings and friends.
This is a wonderful story with engaging characters, a warm romance, and an interesting plot. I loved their story and read it in one sitting. I highly recommend it.
I read this as an arc, but my opinions are my own.
101 reviews3 followers
September 12, 2023
This is the fabulous new book from the Queen of Regency Romance Christi Caldwell and it is the next in her Scandalous Seasons series.
Anwen Kearsley has loved Phineas Lesar, Marquess of Landon for most of her life. Unfortunately for our heroine there are a few things that prevent the couple being together. Phineas is not only her older brother’s best friend, he is a renowned rake and probably most important is the Kearsley curse. It is believed by all in the family that they are destined to die young. This is confirmed when the Dowager Marchioness takes Anwen and her sisters for a reading from the fortune teller, Madam Pomfrets.
Phineas knows his reckless ways have left him in dire circumstances, this is only made worse when his aunt decides enough is enough and cuts him off. Fearing debtors prison he gets soused and passes out in his rooms.
Anwen decides she needs help to attract suitors and is determined to get Phineas’s help. She enlists her newlywed friend Faith to gain entry to his rooms, unfortunately her protective husband catches them and surprisingly helps them. After being woken from his drunken stupor by Anwen, Phineas is somehow persuaded to aid her in a fake courtship, so as to attract the notice of eligible bachelors.
Ultimately spending so much time together they realize their love for each other. Of course there is some drama along the way but our couple get their happy ever after in the end.
Although there are characters from previous books this can be read as a standalone but I feel certain that the reader will want to read more of Christi’s amazing books once they finish this story.

I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
Profile Image for Kat Tolle.
639 reviews12 followers
September 10, 2023
FANTASTIC!!! Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor by Christi Caldwell is book 8 in the Scandalous Seasons series and though in a series this book can be read as a standalone. What I loved about this book is that Phineas was Anwen’s brother’s best friend and the do not touch the sister rule is in place or it should be. Their romance just sizzled. Christi Caldwell is a favorite author of mine and she never disappoints and Once A Rake, Suddenly A Suitor did not let me down. There is a lot happening in this story and I totally love that. So many stories in one. I found this book to be very well written, original, had the real feel of the regency era, wonderful characters and just a joy to read. Christi really out did herself with one. This story has a lady that is on the shelf that feels like she is invisible to everyone, a friend since childhood, being close to a family since his was not very good, a bad reputation, thinking he is just like his father, a favor for a best friend, being forced to a fortune teller and predictions, silly sisters, a curse that the family members die young, wanting to live and be brave, visiting a Marquess at his bachelor pad, moves he should not be taken with a best friend’s sister, an accident in the park, lies and falling in love. I am so very highly recommending you read this book… you won’t be disappointed.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Profile Image for Ghazal.
430 reviews9 followers
September 11, 2023
I was extremely fortunate to receive an ARC of Once a Rake, Suddenly a Suitor, written by the amazing Christi Caldwell.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  Ms.Caldwell's versatility and ability to write unique amazing romantic stories is mind-blowing.
Miss Anwen Kearsley knows her death is imminent at a young age due to a family curse. Howevwr, she wants to experience the kind of love she has only read about in her stories. Her love for her brother's best friend, Lord Phineas Lesar, the Marquess of Landon, has been a part of her existence since she can remember. He is a wastrel and doesn't think he deserves any accolades or sympathy from his best friend's sister. Situations arise where their forced proximity causes Phineas to finally admit (at least to himself) that he loves Anwen but knows he isn't worthy of her. I absolutely loved and adored this heartfelt story of two people perfect for each other but each with tbeir imperfect self-esteem. A definite page turner, can't put the book down kind of story.
1,509 reviews19 followers
September 19, 2023
Love the cover for starters. As always very well written, drawing you in from the beginning to the end. Each character is very defined and developed to fit the storyline/plot, whether they are "bad" or good. Anwen is 27 years old and in her seventh season. She goes to a fortune teller with her mother and hears that she may not have long to live. There is a family curse that she is aware of and may be the next victim of it. Afraid that she may not live and feel love , she decides to get Phineas to help her. Phineas is having some money issues and needs to fine a rich woman to get him out of troubles. So together , they fake an engagement and spend time together. The action and reaction between them is fabulous. They feel that they are cursed and flawed yet both are the answers to each other issues. This book is just absolutely fantastic. Everyone should read it. Would strongly recommend it to all.
I am an ARC and leave this unbiased, honest review.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
816 reviews7 followers
September 1, 2023
What a delightful tale of fear, pain, excess and love! As always , this author does not disappoint with this tale. Phineas is a childhood friend of Anwen’s, her brother’s best friend and although she see him , he doesn’t really see her as she would wish. I loved the trepidation Anwen showed, not wanting to know the future, with the family curse hanging over her head. (If it had been me….I would have RUN!) The love she has for him is so delicious and the discussion they have before the accident was painfully sad. I loved how Anwen showed Phineas how he really was and not how his father painted him for years. His Aunt is just hilarious and the surprise at the end is so fun! This story is witty, charming, heartbreaking and just, plain WONDERFUL!

I received this ARC copy for free and these are my own opinions
Profile Image for Marianne.
239 reviews
Read
September 1, 2023
Once again, Christi Caldwell has welcomed us into the lives of a delightful, but cursed, family. We meet Anwen, the eldest daughter of the family. Then we meet Phineas, her brother’s best friend but a true wastrel. Problem is, Anwen has been in love with Phineas for as long as she can remember.
I won’t write a spoiler review, but can tell you that I fell in love with these characters. Anwen is such a nice person, though so sure she will be the next victim of the ‘curse.’ Phineas has decided to walk in the footsteps of his horrible father – not seeing that he really has a heart of gold.
Take a few hours out of your day and go visit these two young people. You’ll be so happy you did!
Profile Image for Janet.
5,092 reviews64 followers
September 11, 2023
There have been two constants in Miss Anwen Kearsley’s life: one, she has always loved Phineas Lesar, the Marquis of Landon, her brother’s best friend. And two, like all her relatives, she is fated to die young. Phineas Lesar, the Marquis of Landon's reputation precedes him. Unfortunately, so does his status as a gentleman on the edge of debtor's prison. He needs to find a heiress.
The eighth book in this lovely series & it’s easily read on its own. Another beautifully written, delightful romance. Brilliant characters & a well paced story had me glued to my kindle & the pages flew by. I loved both Phineas & Anwen & was totally invested in their journey to a HEA. I was taken on a gamut of emotions, I laughed & I cried & I loved it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
805 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2023
I received an early copy of this lovely book for an honest review. I have not read every book in this series, but I don't feel that you have to truly enjoy this lovely story. It is a true friends-to-lovers story, with a brother's best friend trope thrown in. Anwen was a remarkable character, with her strength and compassion, while poor Phineus struggled. It just goes to show what strength of character is developed when you grow up in a loving home, which Anwen had in abundance! I was thrilled at the character development and loved how deftly it was handled. This was a really good story and it is one I will definitely re-visit.
755 reviews11 followers
September 6, 2023
What a great book, I really enjoyed this book so much, I did not want to put it down. It is about a flawed hero Phineas who has been a friend to Anwen’s brother and the whole family. The problem is Anwen has been in love with Phineas forever, but Phineas thinks of her as a sister – well sometimes. I also loved this story because of the wonderful family of Anwen’s. I also loved Anwen’s friends which I believe have stories of their own, I only read one of them, but I will look and read the rest. Christi Caldwell books are always enjoyable, and I have never been disappointed.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
2,369 reviews20 followers
September 6, 2023
He is cursed, she is cursed. Oh, those wacky Kearsley’s are back at it. After St. John’s story I was wondering if Christi would go back to the family. And she does. This is Anwen’s story of unrequited love; she thinks. Okay, so she kind of knows but Phineas is what most men are like, clueless. I so loved this story. It was sad in some places, it has yearning, it has love so powerful. You cannot help but feel for Phineas (thinks he cannot love) and Anwen (she is cursed, of course, not!). And those crazy relatives, yeah, getting all up in their business. Hehe! The ending (and what happens right before) is so beautiful. I’m gushing.

I received a complimentary copy.
Profile Image for CATHERINE  BURHANS .
815 reviews8 followers
September 13, 2023
This is such a sweet romance, and yet heart wrenching at the same time. I absolutely love Christi Caldwell’s characters. The are always like onions with many layers, and her superb writing pulls me into their lives, causing me to really care and root for them. Both these characters are flawed and broken, but both have beautiful and redeemable hearts. I loved Anwen’s fierce love for Phineas. She never gave up on him, even when he spurned her, and she defended his character with her life. Yet he believed that she deserved someone so much better than himself. It was so rewarding to see family and friends come alongside and offer support! Beautiful story!
Profile Image for Gloria Pastorino.
Author 81 books56 followers
September 19, 2023
How I love Caldwell’s books! I started this one and I couldn’t put it down! Captivating, heart-warming, with perfectly dosed angst and a touch of humor. I loved both characters and I found the idea of the curse very intriguing. I loved seeing characters of previous books and finally seeing Anwen have her HEA. And Phineas is so sweet! A cinnamon roll rake? Yes, it’s a thing! A five star book as always! Highly recommended.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Gayla McNicholas.
76 reviews2 followers
September 9, 2023
Loaded with all the angst and flawed characters we're used to finding in her books, this story brought me to tears. Phineas is a beautifully crafted character that you alternately want to hug or shake some sense into. Anwen starts out being afraid of the family curse but when she decides to seize her happiness her character starts to shine. I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it with my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Margaret.
3,145 reviews33 followers
September 13, 2023
Caldwell never disappoints when it comes to a complicated romance. Miss Anwen Kearsley knows she will die young, unfortunately she is still a spinster at twenty-eight. The only man she's ever loved is Lord Phineas, the Marquess of Landon, but he doesn't know she exists except as his best friend's sister. A request from her brother puts Phineas in the position of looking out for Anwen at balls. Anwen has her own request and is willing to do whatever she can to get it. A Marquess who's wasted his life with drink, gambling and women is about to get the surprise of his life. Some descriptive sex. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Lisa C.
1,085 reviews22 followers
September 3, 2023
Amazing story of childhood friends Miss Anwen Kearsley and Phineas Lesar, the Marquess of Landon. They have quite a history but will they have a future? Loved these two together and how their friendship grows. The Kearsley family is a wonderful addition and the writing flows throughout the story. Part of the Scandalous Seasons series but can be read as a standalone. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Marilyn .
477 reviews9 followers
September 4, 2023
A beautiful story of Anwen Kearsley and her brother's friend Phineas Lesar, the Marquess of Landon.

Anwen has been in love with Phineas since she was sixteen. When at 27 she asks him to help her find a husband, he reluctantly agrees.

The chemistry between the two of them was wonderful and I loved her quirky family and his aunt.
I highly recommend this book for a fun, interesting read.
Profile Image for Aj.
2,444 reviews
September 8, 2023
Lovely, totally engaging romance, beautifully written with emotion and wonderful character development. This is a brother's best friend trope that had me turning the pages, Anwen and Phineas are perfectly imperfect for each other. A spirited beauty and her rogue... a worthy journey of redeeming, belonging and love.
4 reviews
September 13, 2023
I have been waiting for Anwen and Landon’s book for what feels like forever. Christi Caldwell writes beautifully and Iove reading her books.
I feel there should have been more of a grovel towards the end and the book ended rather abruptly. I only wish we had more time with Anwen and Landon, but this might say more about me and addiction to books that are all about the yearning.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for AmazingJ.
943 reviews7 followers
April 1, 2024
Absolutely Wonderful & Romantic.

Anwen & Phineas were wonderful characters. I really enjoyed this Story.

Anwen's character was so wonderful & even though she hated certain aspects of her family, she had a huge heart & it just tugged at me.

I am looking forward to reading the next & last book in this series. I am excited that it has Hamish's friend & ex cell mate & Elyse.
Profile Image for Korina Reads.
21 reviews
May 19, 2025
Pleasant read, the second to last sentence of the book reads like there’s a typo or a word missing which is unfortunate. The last sentence makes no sense as pertains to the story. Overall, shouldn’t have read the epilogue.

Other qualm:
The cover seems to be AI generated if you look closely at the roses, hopefully not.
Profile Image for Susy V.
132 reviews
September 12, 2023
This is the romance between Marcia and Faiths third friend , Anwen….she is sister of St. John, the hero from Spmerhing wanton this way come . It was a good story , entertaining, funny and an ok read ! It was light and cute
Profile Image for Cynthia Houser.
1,570 reviews10 followers
September 17, 2023
Once a Rake

I thoroughly enjoy Christi' s writing and have read most of her books.❤ I anxiously wait for the next new book. This book was a sweet story with wonderful characters. The characters are not perfect and usually have some reforming to do.
55 reviews
September 19, 2023
Loved it

Loved it as I do all of Christi's books. It was heartwarming and heartbreaking , both equally to blame in finally reaching each other. I thought It was well written and so enjoyable.
1,112 reviews4 followers
October 2, 2023
Excellent read from Christi Caldwell!! What a story! My eyes actually watered up toward the end. Not saying who, why or when, just buy the book. Caldwell writes such great characters and plots and I enjoyed every word of this one. Can't wait to read the next installment.
Profile Image for Lita.
2,514 reviews7 followers
January 12, 2024
There is a vast difference between this book written in 2023 and the third one in this series written in 2014. I had a hard time with that one, but I really enjoyed this one. Unrequited love, a family curse, a best friend's sister, a rake, what's not to love?
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