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Donovan Sisters #1
Confessions of an Improper Bride
Serena Donovan left London six years ago, her heart broken and her reputation ruined by devilishly handsome Jonathan Dane. Now, with her family's future in peril, she reluctantly agrees to return to England and assume her late twin's identity. The price? Marry a man she doesn't love and spend the rest of her days living a lie.
Jonathan Dane, Earl of Stratford, has become an incorrigible rake, drinking, gambling-and trying to forget Serena Donovan. Yet the moment he's introduced to the prim and proper "Meg", he recognizes the sensual young woman who captured his heart. Haunted by his past mistakes, he refuses to lose Serena again. But convincing her to trust him is no easy task. Claiming his lost love means exposing the truth and destroying the life Serena has sacrificed everything to rebuild.
With the future of all the Donovans at stake, and their undying passion capable of triggering yet another scandal, how much will Jonathan and Serena risk for a chance at true love?
Jonathan Dane, Earl of Stratford, has become an incorrigible rake, drinking, gambling-and trying to forget Serena Donovan. Yet the moment he's introduced to the prim and proper "Meg", he recognizes the sensual young woman who captured his heart. Haunted by his past mistakes, he refuses to lose Serena again. But convincing her to trust him is no easy task. Claiming his lost love means exposing the truth and destroying the life Serena has sacrificed everything to rebuild.
With the future of all the Donovans at stake, and their undying passion capable of triggering yet another scandal, how much will Jonathan and Serena risk for a chance at true love?
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2011
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1326 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
November 15, 2011
I spent the book rolling my eyes. I mean, come on! The "heroine" believes she was seduced, publicly caught en flagrente delicto, then dumped by this man 6 years ago. This then caused her aunt to cast her and her twin sister out of London, and her sister was killed on the ship ride home (if the man hadn't dumped her, they never would have been on the ship in the first place and her sister wouldn't have died). And yet, when she sees the man again, she flippantly forgets about all this and moons over him again?! Get serious!
I spent the book being pissed off at Serena for her stupid choices. And Jonathon, who initially thinks Serena is her dead twin sister, is instantly lusting after her and wanting to seduce her away from her fiance, who is one of his best friends. Yeah, he should be shot as well. If I hadn't bought this book, but gotten it from the library instead, I never would have finished it.
I thought originally I would give this a 2, but the characters repeatedly made me so angry that I am giving it a 1. "Oh, we mustn't!" followed by kiss kiss kiss, followed by "oh, we shouldn't!" And ending with 'He knew she loved him because her limbs trembled and she moaned his name over and over.'
IDIOTS
I spent the book being pissed off at Serena for her stupid choices. And Jonathon, who initially thinks Serena is her dead twin sister, is instantly lusting after her and wanting to seduce her away from her fiance, who is one of his best friends. Yeah, he should be shot as well. If I hadn't bought this book, but gotten it from the library instead, I never would have finished it.
I thought originally I would give this a 2, but the characters repeatedly made me so angry that I am giving it a 1. "Oh, we mustn't!" followed by kiss kiss kiss, followed by "oh, we shouldn't!" And ending with 'He knew she loved him because her limbs trembled and she moaned his name over and over.'
IDIOTS
August 31, 2011
This would have been a typical 3-3.5 HR book.
It was fun but a bit long when it came to revelations.
It was not really paced well but I could have lived with it all.
If not for...wait.Let me explain.
This author has a way of putting her foot in her mouth.
The whole book was spilling with the remembrance of Will and Megs big love only to fall low and blow up in my face.
I have no idea how the author does it. I had the pe-ka-booo-here,have a scene in her previous books and it bugged me greatly. Here? It was almost dirtily executed. She soiled a nice character only so she could wrap it all up and get him out of the picture. In doing this not only was it so far from characteristic of this male lead it was almost fantastic in the probability department.
So,all in all,a stress inducer for sure.
It was fun but a bit long when it came to revelations.
It was not really paced well but I could have lived with it all.
If not for...wait.Let me explain.
This author has a way of putting her foot in her mouth.
The whole book was spilling with the remembrance of Will and Megs big love only to fall low and blow up in my face.
I have no idea how the author does it. I had the pe-ka-booo-here,have a scene in her previous books and it bugged me greatly. Here? It was almost dirtily executed. She soiled a nice character only so she could wrap it all up and get him out of the picture. In doing this not only was it so far from characteristic of this male lead it was almost fantastic in the probability department.
So,all in all,a stress inducer for sure.
December 19, 2014
Serena Donovan met Jonathan Dane 6 years ago when she first came to London. She was an impoverished Irish peer's daughter and he, the second son of a rich earl. Though they fell instantly in love with each other, his family didn't approve of the match and when they were caught in a compromising position, Jonathan chose to bend to his father's threats and cut her off instead of marrying her. Completely ruined, Serena left London with her twin sister Meg but while on board of the ship that was carrying them to their home in Antigua, Meg fell overboard. Serena's mother, rather than have the disgraced daughter alive, told everyone that it was Serena that died and Meg who lived.
Now, 6 years later, an offer of marriage from Meg's old love and suitor, Captain Langley, has arrived from London. The family's destitute, so Serena is to take Meg's place and marry Captain Langley in Meg's place, in order for her other sisters to later be introduced -and married- into London's high society. For the shake of her sisters Serena agrees with the plan, but finds it too difficult to go through with it when she finds out that Langley's closest friend and best man to be, is no other than Jonathan Dane, the current Earl of Stratford. Jonathan is surprised to find himself attracted to Serena's twin sister, which he had never noticed in the past, and feels ashamed for wanting his best friend's betrothed. But soon, he starts wondering if the woman he's lusting after isn't Serena after all, the woman he loved and thought he'd lost forever. Serena thought she was completely over Jonathan after his horrid betrayal, but being close to him, she can't deny that the old flame is still there. Still, can she forgive how he once betrayed her or forget what she must do for her sisters' shake?
The good:
-The writing was excellent, emotional and moving; the characters fully developed and even though I had trouble forgiving Jonathan in the beginning, I came to deeply sympathize with him, the more truths about the past incident came to light. Haymore obviously knows how to pull the reader's heartstrings and lovers of truly angsty, agonizing reads, will probably appreciate these lovers' stony path to happiness.
-I liked that Serena, realistically, didn't immediately forgive and forget Jonathan's behavior upon seeing him again, but it took her a long time to get over what he did to her.
-I also loved the fact that we 'saw' a big part of the story from Jonathan's eyes, this way actually seeing how sorry and ashamed he trully was for his old rejection. It's another thing to be told he was sorry, and another to actually see it from his POV. Plus, with what he did in the present to help Serena and what extra details we get for what happened 6 years ago, I'm happy to say, I was able to completely get over any grunge I held for him.
The bad:
-There was a secondary romance between Serena's sister Phoebe and a young rake, that was too conveniently similar to what happened to Serena and Jonathan in the past, to be easily swallowed. Besides, the lack of depth in that story arc -and I'm glad the focus stayed on the main couple, mind you- made the young rake's turn of heart, a little too fast and sudden to be believable.
-My other problem were the last 30-40 pages. A lot of things I didn't like occured in them, all in once, thus somewhat diminishing my overall enjoyment of the book.
-For starters, it got too sweet and cheesy. I read more declarations of undying love in 2 pages than I usually read in an entire novel. Of course, since I'm not a fan of sweet romances and lovey-dovey phrases, that which threw me off, is probably a plus for most other romance readers.
-The way that the writer got rid of Serena's/Meg's betrothed was completely unfair to him and utterly unpalatable to my taste. . The easy solution, is not in this case, the best one:(
-My last and most important peeve about the ending, is that by the number of times that Serena doubted Jonathan's love for her after their reconcialiation, I have much difficulty in imagining a real HEA for them, where each one is secure in the knowledge of the other's love. The author didn't manage to make me believe that the wound left by Jonathan in Serena's heart was finally healed by the book's end, a fact that made me put the book down with a sense of unfullfillment.
All in all, this was a very nice emotional, even angsty story of love between two people who have never stopped loving eacg other. I'll look forward to read other books by this author but I strongly wish the ending was different; it would then get a 4.5 rating from me. As it is though, I have to take a full star just for the ending, so I'd say it's a 3.5 leaning on 4 stars for me.
ARC received by NetGalley
Now, 6 years later, an offer of marriage from Meg's old love and suitor, Captain Langley, has arrived from London. The family's destitute, so Serena is to take Meg's place and marry Captain Langley in Meg's place, in order for her other sisters to later be introduced -and married- into London's high society. For the shake of her sisters Serena agrees with the plan, but finds it too difficult to go through with it when she finds out that Langley's closest friend and best man to be, is no other than Jonathan Dane, the current Earl of Stratford. Jonathan is surprised to find himself attracted to Serena's twin sister, which he had never noticed in the past, and feels ashamed for wanting his best friend's betrothed. But soon, he starts wondering if the woman he's lusting after isn't Serena after all, the woman he loved and thought he'd lost forever. Serena thought she was completely over Jonathan after his horrid betrayal, but being close to him, she can't deny that the old flame is still there. Still, can she forgive how he once betrayed her or forget what she must do for her sisters' shake?
The good:
-The writing was excellent, emotional and moving; the characters fully developed and even though I had trouble forgiving Jonathan in the beginning, I came to deeply sympathize with him, the more truths about the past incident came to light. Haymore obviously knows how to pull the reader's heartstrings and lovers of truly angsty, agonizing reads, will probably appreciate these lovers' stony path to happiness.
-I liked that Serena, realistically, didn't immediately forgive and forget Jonathan's behavior upon seeing him again, but it took her a long time to get over what he did to her.
-I also loved the fact that we 'saw' a big part of the story from Jonathan's eyes, this way actually seeing how sorry and ashamed he trully was for his old rejection. It's another thing to be told he was sorry, and another to actually see it from his POV. Plus, with what he did in the present to help Serena and what extra details we get for what happened 6 years ago, I'm happy to say, I was able to completely get over any grunge I held for him.
The bad:
-There was a secondary romance between Serena's sister Phoebe and a young rake, that was too conveniently similar to what happened to Serena and Jonathan in the past, to be easily swallowed. Besides, the lack of depth in that story arc -and I'm glad the focus stayed on the main couple, mind you- made the young rake's turn of heart, a little too fast and sudden to be believable.
-My other problem were the last 30-40 pages. A lot of things I didn't like occured in them, all in once, thus somewhat diminishing my overall enjoyment of the book.
-For starters, it got too sweet and cheesy. I read more declarations of undying love in 2 pages than I usually read in an entire novel. Of course, since I'm not a fan of sweet romances and lovey-dovey phrases, that which threw me off, is probably a plus for most other romance readers.
-The way that the writer got rid of Serena's/Meg's betrothed was completely unfair to him and utterly unpalatable to my taste. . The easy solution, is not in this case, the best one:(
-My last and most important peeve about the ending, is that by the number of times that Serena doubted Jonathan's love for her after their reconcialiation, I have much difficulty in imagining a real HEA for them, where each one is secure in the knowledge of the other's love. The author didn't manage to make me believe that the wound left by Jonathan in Serena's heart was finally healed by the book's end, a fact that made me put the book down with a sense of unfullfillment.
All in all, this was a very nice emotional, even angsty story of love between two people who have never stopped loving eacg other. I'll look forward to read other books by this author but I strongly wish the ending was different; it would then get a 4.5 rating from me. As it is though, I have to take a full star just for the ending, so I'd say it's a 3.5 leaning on 4 stars for me.
ARC received by NetGalley
June 19, 2024
Overall Rating:
⭐️: 3.5/5 🌶️🔥: 3/5
Did I dislike every single character? Yes.
Do I hate second-chance romances? Also yes.
Did I still really enjoy this book and couldn't stop reading? Absolutely yes!
Look, I don’t mind second-chance romances if things happen where no character is at fault—just circumstances happen, they separate and reconnect. Cool, I really like those.
However, when one main character was such an asshole that the other person was truly emotionally hurt, I just don't like it! I'm a Taurus—it’s hard for me to forgive, okay!?
So this one was hard, because I truly didn't like anyone in this book. Still, I was invested and couldn’t put it down. Hence the 3.5 stars.
Also, way too much about Phoebe and Sebastian (whom I also didn't like....).
⭐️: 3.5/5 🌶️🔥: 3/5
Did I dislike every single character? Yes.
Do I hate second-chance romances? Also yes.
Did I still really enjoy this book and couldn't stop reading? Absolutely yes!
Look, I don’t mind second-chance romances if things happen where no character is at fault—just circumstances happen, they separate and reconnect. Cool, I really like those.
However, when one main character was such an asshole that the other person was truly emotionally hurt, I just don't like it! I'm a Taurus—it’s hard for me to forgive, okay!?
So this one was hard, because I truly didn't like anyone in this book. Still, I was invested and couldn’t put it down. Hence the 3.5 stars.
Also, way too much about Phoebe and Sebastian (whom I also didn't like....).
August 1, 2011
What a surprising gem this book turned out to be. It wrapped me up from the very beginning and I didn't want to put it down until it was over.
At just 18, Serena Donovan fell in love during her first season in London. But Jonathan was above her station. When the two of them were caught in the midst of a tryst, she was ruined in the eyes of society. And Jonathan turned his back on her. She was forced to set sail for her home in Anguila, with her twin sister Meg at her side. During a storm at sea, Meg went overboard and was never found.
Six years later, Serena discovers that her mother informed London society that it was she, not her sister, who died in that tragic accident. What's more, her mother has been corresponding with Will, the man Meg had been in love with. Will has believed he has been writing to Meg all this time and has now asked her to return to London to wed. Serena's mother insists that Serena go in Meg's place. If she marries Will, she can restore honor to the family and help finance a future for her younger sisters.
When Serena arrives in London, she comes face to face with Jonathan again. He's the only one who seems to recognize her for who she really is. Of course, this takes time to come out in the open. In the interim, Serena does her best to stay away from the man who broke her heart so completely all those years ago. But it's a losing battle.
There was so much raw emotion in this book. Serena's anguish over her past is palpable. She is such a sympathetic character, because you can see how trusting and in love she once was. Her shattered self esteem is crushed even more as she is forced to sublimate herself to take on her "good" sister's persona. But she does it for her family... for her remaining sisters who would have no future otherwise. She struggles with the lies she must tell and fights her own heart to stay away from Jonathan... even after he reveals that he knows who she is. And even though it would be easy to hate Jonathan for all he put Serena through, you can see the depth of his grief at her loss --and the honesty in his love for her now.
It was really very good and makes me want to find more from Jennifer Haymore. Almost 5 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
At just 18, Serena Donovan fell in love during her first season in London. But Jonathan was above her station. When the two of them were caught in the midst of a tryst, she was ruined in the eyes of society. And Jonathan turned his back on her. She was forced to set sail for her home in Anguila, with her twin sister Meg at her side. During a storm at sea, Meg went overboard and was never found.
Six years later, Serena discovers that her mother informed London society that it was she, not her sister, who died in that tragic accident. What's more, her mother has been corresponding with Will, the man Meg had been in love with. Will has believed he has been writing to Meg all this time and has now asked her to return to London to wed. Serena's mother insists that Serena go in Meg's place. If she marries Will, she can restore honor to the family and help finance a future for her younger sisters.
When Serena arrives in London, she comes face to face with Jonathan again. He's the only one who seems to recognize her for who she really is. Of course, this takes time to come out in the open. In the interim, Serena does her best to stay away from the man who broke her heart so completely all those years ago. But it's a losing battle.
There was so much raw emotion in this book. Serena's anguish over her past is palpable. She is such a sympathetic character, because you can see how trusting and in love she once was. Her shattered self esteem is crushed even more as she is forced to sublimate herself to take on her "good" sister's persona. But she does it for her family... for her remaining sisters who would have no future otherwise. She struggles with the lies she must tell and fights her own heart to stay away from Jonathan... even after he reveals that he knows who she is. And even though it would be easy to hate Jonathan for all he put Serena through, you can see the depth of his grief at her loss --and the honesty in his love for her now.
It was really very good and makes me want to find more from Jennifer Haymore. Almost 5 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
August 5, 2011
4.5 Stars
My favorite thing about Jennifer Haymore is that she really knows how to write about overwhelming, all-consuming love. Her characters are always over the moon for each other, which is exactly what I want in a historical romance. At the same time, her writing is never sappy and the love story always feel real.
The plot was new and different for me. I liked the tangled web created by Serena masquerading as her sister. The almost love triangle or even love square was intriguing.But it was so sad that Serena's sister Meg had been lost at sea which was what set the whole plot in motion. I liked the situation with Meg/Serena's fiance, Will, and I thought it was tied up well in the end without being too easy.
Jonathan did some very bad things but I can honestly say he redeemed himself in my opinion. I don't say that often about romance heroes, I'm not so fast to forgive them But Jonathan really showed Serena he was sorry and that he had changed, instead of just telling her.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. I sincerely hope we get to see more of Serena and Jonathan as the older and wiser couple in her sisters' stories. And I hope Meg gets to have her own story somehow.
Overall, two strong leads, a captivating romance, and a great start to a new series!
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
My favorite thing about Jennifer Haymore is that she really knows how to write about overwhelming, all-consuming love. Her characters are always over the moon for each other, which is exactly what I want in a historical romance. At the same time, her writing is never sappy and the love story always feel real.
The plot was new and different for me. I liked the tangled web created by Serena masquerading as her sister. The almost love triangle or even love square was intriguing.But it was so sad that Serena's sister Meg had been lost at sea which was what set the whole plot in motion. I liked the situation with Meg/Serena's fiance, Will, and I thought it was tied up well in the end without being too easy.
Jonathan did some very bad things but I can honestly say he redeemed himself in my opinion. I don't say that often about romance heroes, I'm not so fast to forgive them But Jonathan really showed Serena he was sorry and that he had changed, instead of just telling her.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. I sincerely hope we get to see more of Serena and Jonathan as the older and wiser couple in her sisters' stories. And I hope Meg gets to have her own story somehow.
Overall, two strong leads, a captivating romance, and a great start to a new series!
ARC sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
August 5, 2011
Short synopsis: Serena gets caught with Dane and he shuns her in society instead of marrying her. Serena and her twin sail back to Antigua but Meg falls overboard, never to be seen again. Unbeknownst to everyone else their mom kept up correspondence with Meg's love interest and when he asked her to marry him, mom said yes on behalf of Meg (who was lost at see) and sent Serena to England in place of Meg to marry Langley. Serena must marry to secure a place in society so her sister's can marry also.
I am not a big fan of major deceptions in romance. This whole book was too much about deception. Serena is deceiving Langley and everyone else. Dane, Langley's best friend, knows that she is Serena and wants her so he is deceiving Langley. Pheobe, the sister, is sleeping with an unsuitable man on the sly. Everyone was just dishonest.
I just felt everyone was unhappy in this book. Our first sex scene wasn't even with the main characters it was with Pheobe. I wasn't on board with the HEA for all the parties. Sorry for the disjointed review but this book just didn't do anything for me.
I am not a big fan of major deceptions in romance. This whole book was too much about deception. Serena is deceiving Langley and everyone else. Dane, Langley's best friend, knows that she is Serena and wants her so he is deceiving Langley. Pheobe, the sister, is sleeping with an unsuitable man on the sly. Everyone was just dishonest.
I just felt everyone was unhappy in this book. Our first sex scene wasn't even with the main characters it was with Pheobe. I wasn't on board with the HEA for all the parties. Sorry for the disjointed review but this book just didn't do anything for me.
May 3, 2013
I appreciate a certain symetry in fiction. Take Chekhov's Gun. I am a big fan of the Chekhov's Gun principle. It bothers me when books don't have a sound structure. I'm also a math person. It may be related.
Let me give you an example: in The Avengers movie, there's this feud between Iron Man and Captain America. Cap thinks that Iron Man's not a real hero, that he's selfish and just in this for the fame and glitz. Iron Man thinks that Cap is a conformist who just does whatever he's told. At the end of the movie (oh, uh, spoilers ahead), Iron Man is proven to be selfless and heroic and blah blah, meaning Cap was wrong about him, but Iron Man's view of Captain America is never challeneged. Either the movie is blatantly taking one side over the other, or the movie is structurally flawed.
Serena and Jonathan's story has the same problem.
Let me give you an example: in The Avengers movie, there's this feud between Iron Man and Captain America. Cap thinks that Iron Man's not a real hero, that he's selfish and just in this for the fame and glitz. Iron Man thinks that Cap is a conformist who just does whatever he's told. At the end of the movie (oh, uh, spoilers ahead), Iron Man is proven to be selfless and heroic and blah blah, meaning Cap was wrong about him, but Iron Man's view of Captain America is never challeneged. Either the movie is blatantly taking one side over the other, or the movie is structurally flawed.
Serena and Jonathan's story has the same problem.
March 19, 2020
First time author and listen...😒 The story dragged a bit for me and was a bit boring. Pushed myself to finish but hoping others in series is okay...not giving up on this one yet.
I enjoyed the narration.
2-Stars
I enjoyed the narration.
2-Stars
July 14, 2011
Wow, what a book! This book drew me in from the prologue and did not let go! We are introduced to twin sisters Meg and Serena Donovan as they are on a ship back home to Antigua from London after a devastating scandal involving Serena. However, while on board something tragic happens to Meg that changes Serenas life forever and not always by her choice. Now five years later Serena is returning to London with her younger sister Phoebe but there is a twist. Serenas mother told the world that it was Serena who died at see, not Meg (as Serena was a bit of a wild child and not as well behaved as her mother would have liked) and the entire time her mother has been corresponding with Megs love from their first trip to London. Posing as Meg, Serena is set to wed William Langley.
Serena reluctantly agrees to this plan as she has three younger sisters who need to be brought into Society and make good matches as the family has no money. But she has very deep reservations and Serena does not want to see the man that caused her horrible scandal and shattered heart, Jonathan Dane. And who just happens to be Langleys best friend?
When Jonathan sees "Meg" for the first time he is floored to be feeling attraction to her. After all, she is his lost loves sister but the more he thinks about it, the more he starts to notice little differences between the supposed Meg and what Meg truly was like but just can not believe that Serena would be posing as Meg. It takes one searing kiss to confirm his thoughts and he is filled with happiness. After he believed Serena died, Jonathan wanted to die for the way that he treated her and he lets his life spiral out of control but with the help of his friend Langley he is able to stay adrift. But how can these young lovers move past their hurt filled past and find happiness? And what about Langley?
Now, I wasn't too sure how this was all going to play out (I'm not a fan of possible cheating) but Jennifer Haymore did a wonderful job! Just when I would think something would happen a certain way, there was a small twist that kept me flipping the pages to see how it would end. There is a nice side story involving Serenas sister Phoebe that didn't play out the was I expected either. The entire ending worked out well for all the characters but I would have liked an epilogue. Also, I still have some reservations towards Serenas mom for inventing this plan even if it was with good intentions so I hope we maybe get to meet her in the future books. And I really hope we get to see more of Langley in the upcoming books! For my first Jennifer Haymore novel I was very pleased and I have added her backlist to my every growing pile of fabulous authors to get caught up on! If you enjoy a long lost lovers tale with plenty of twist and turns but no major mystery overshadowing your story, this is a delightful book to try! 4 solid stars
I received this ebook from the publisher via netgallye.com
Serena reluctantly agrees to this plan as she has three younger sisters who need to be brought into Society and make good matches as the family has no money. But she has very deep reservations and Serena does not want to see the man that caused her horrible scandal and shattered heart, Jonathan Dane. And who just happens to be Langleys best friend?
When Jonathan sees "Meg" for the first time he is floored to be feeling attraction to her. After all, she is his lost loves sister but the more he thinks about it, the more he starts to notice little differences between the supposed Meg and what Meg truly was like but just can not believe that Serena would be posing as Meg. It takes one searing kiss to confirm his thoughts and he is filled with happiness. After he believed Serena died, Jonathan wanted to die for the way that he treated her and he lets his life spiral out of control but with the help of his friend Langley he is able to stay adrift. But how can these young lovers move past their hurt filled past and find happiness? And what about Langley?
Now, I wasn't too sure how this was all going to play out (I'm not a fan of possible cheating) but Jennifer Haymore did a wonderful job! Just when I would think something would happen a certain way, there was a small twist that kept me flipping the pages to see how it would end. There is a nice side story involving Serenas sister Phoebe that didn't play out the was I expected either. The entire ending worked out well for all the characters but I would have liked an epilogue. Also, I still have some reservations towards Serenas mom for inventing this plan even if it was with good intentions so I hope we maybe get to meet her in the future books. And I really hope we get to see more of Langley in the upcoming books! For my first Jennifer Haymore novel I was very pleased and I have added her backlist to my every growing pile of fabulous authors to get caught up on! If you enjoy a long lost lovers tale with plenty of twist and turns but no major mystery overshadowing your story, this is a delightful book to try! 4 solid stars
I received this ebook from the publisher via netgallye.com
February 7, 2017
I enjoyed this, but it took me forever to read! It didn't really grab my interest. I know real life was a factor, but this was way to easy to ignore. The writing style didn't work for me - lots of internal discussion and it wasn't always easy to tell in the audio at first. I wasn't really a big fan of the story either. Despite all if this, I am intrigued enough to continue the series - someday.
August 30, 2016
I have only read one other story by this author and found it very enjoyable. I liked this first in a series but not as much as the previous stand alone book. Some elements just did not gel for me. There are many long and complete reviews written as well as the story description, all of which set up the premise for this novel very well. Plots about one identical twin taking his/her sibling’s place have been done before and the reason this particular mother forces her daughter, Serena, to take her deceased twin’s place are understandable. Five sisters, a deceased father and poverty facing the future for all, remind me of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The personalities of the twins echo Jane and Elizabeth Bennet’s very well.
I did not like Jonathan Dane,Earl of Stratford at all. Yes, this couple fell in love and engaged in intimate relations (described too frequently and in too much graphic detail for my liking) but when found in flagante delico during a ball he bows to the threat of being cut off (as he is only a second son) and so cuts her in public the next day. She and her sister, Meg, who has formed an attachment with Naval Captain William Langley, are sent home to Antigua by their aunt who was sponsoring their season in Britain. Meg is swept overboard and Mrs. Donovan, unbeknownst to all, reports to British newspapers that it is Serena who was killed and then Mrs. D. takes up the correspondence with Meg’s intended and accepts his proposal at the end of 6 years. Meanwhile back in England Jonathan has been saving his allowance to follow Serena. However, upon learning of her death then promises his father who is on his death bed that he will never marry and so will end their family line. (His older brother has also died so he is now the heir.) Jonathan throws himself into drink, gambling and debauchery but ironically also becomes best friends with Captain Langley.
Thus when Serena posing as Meg comes to marry Captain Langley no one EXCEPT Jonathan and the Dowager Duchess of Clayworth recognize which twin this is. (The latter person found and exposed Serena and Jonathan in coming upon them in a tryst at her ball.) Jonathan plays along with the deception while the Duchess is written off as a confused old lady. Serena/Meg is accompanied by a younger sister, Phoebe, who seems determined to repeat Serena’s downfall in her relationship with Mr. Harper. We also read of interactions between the engaged couple which lead to ponderings by Serena as to just what Meg’s relationship was with William. Did they kiss? Did they too go further and could that be the reason he looks at her with questions in his eyes?
Part of what did not go down well with me is the problem of handling the identity of the surviving twin. I don’t know how this will play out in the next books in this series but I was not really satisfied with the solution written for us.
Serena’s mantra is “What would Meg do?” and she finds it harder and harder to accomplish this, but especially so when Jonathan confronts her claiming he knows who it is standing in front of him. After all he had memorized every freckle on her face.
An interesting romance with some twists which may play out further in the next of this series.
I did not like Jonathan Dane,Earl of Stratford at all. Yes, this couple fell in love and engaged in intimate relations (described too frequently and in too much graphic detail for my liking) but when found in flagante delico during a ball he bows to the threat of being cut off (as he is only a second son) and so cuts her in public the next day. She and her sister, Meg, who has formed an attachment with Naval Captain William Langley, are sent home to Antigua by their aunt who was sponsoring their season in Britain. Meg is swept overboard and Mrs. Donovan, unbeknownst to all, reports to British newspapers that it is Serena who was killed and then Mrs. D. takes up the correspondence with Meg’s intended and accepts his proposal at the end of 6 years. Meanwhile back in England Jonathan has been saving his allowance to follow Serena. However, upon learning of her death then promises his father who is on his death bed that he will never marry and so will end their family line. (His older brother has also died so he is now the heir.) Jonathan throws himself into drink, gambling and debauchery but ironically also becomes best friends with Captain Langley.
Thus when Serena posing as Meg comes to marry Captain Langley no one EXCEPT Jonathan and the Dowager Duchess of Clayworth recognize which twin this is. (The latter person found and exposed Serena and Jonathan in coming upon them in a tryst at her ball.) Jonathan plays along with the deception while the Duchess is written off as a confused old lady. Serena/Meg is accompanied by a younger sister, Phoebe, who seems determined to repeat Serena’s downfall in her relationship with Mr. Harper. We also read of interactions between the engaged couple which lead to ponderings by Serena as to just what Meg’s relationship was with William. Did they kiss? Did they too go further and could that be the reason he looks at her with questions in his eyes?
Part of what did not go down well with me is the problem of handling the identity of the surviving twin. I don’t know how this will play out in the next books in this series but I was not really satisfied with the solution written for us.
Serena’s mantra is “What would Meg do?” and she finds it harder and harder to accomplish this, but especially so when Jonathan confronts her claiming he knows who it is standing in front of him. After all he had memorized every freckle on her face.
An interesting romance with some twists which may play out further in the next of this series.
August 4, 2011
CONFESSIONS OF AN IMPROPER BRIDE by Jennifer Haymore
08/11 - Grand Central Publishing - Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
You say I can trust you, but can I believe you?
Serena Donovan lost her reputation and her twin sister Meg the last time she encountered London and Jonathan Dane. Jonathan said he loved her but when pushed to acknowledge their relationship after being caught chose to cut her instead. Now Serena posing as her late sister must come back to face the devil himself and make right what went completely wrong last time.
Her mother created a scenario where Serena had died not Meg and pushed Serena to be Meg and go through with a marriage to a titled man. Though Serena is appalled to think she will now be in London pretending to be her sister, assuming the role of a future bride she will do so to preserve her family’s good name and ensure her younger sisters have a chance to snare husbands. Serena will make this work or she will die trying.
However, when faced with Jonathan Serena has a hard time keeping up the façade, especially when Jonathan tells her he knows she is Serena not Meg. He admits he was the cruelest of men for what he did to her before but now he is the Sixth Earl of Stratford and he can right the wrongs, bring Serena back into his life, and give her a title as his wife. But can he make up for the lies he has told, clean up the life he has let go to waste, and take Serena away from his best friend the man she is to marry? What a tangled web Jonathan has web all by himself and now he is stuck in it and has no idea how to get out of it.
London is the same headache it was before for Serena but this time she is also trying to keep her sister Phoebe out of trouble, stay away from Jonathan, and pretend to be in love with Will and success is not very achievable. The draw to Jonathan is outweighing her duty to Will and her sister is one hot mess of hormones that no adult knows how to handle.
During this decoy realizes that in some ways, she is the naïve girl that left London in a scandal but a woman who wants to make an adult decision about marriage based on love. She has doubts about Jonathan but the passion that drew them together before is stronger than ever and the lust is as equally out of control. Jonathan promises love and respectability but can Serena believe him and risk everything on his word again?
This new series is fresh, exciting, and quite devious with reputations at stake, subterfuge in place and passion running rampant. I love Jennifer Haymore’s books as they always keep you guessing about what is going to happen next and how this will all turn out. You think you know and then she throws you a curve ball you did not see coming.
08/11 - Grand Central Publishing - Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages
You say I can trust you, but can I believe you?
Serena Donovan lost her reputation and her twin sister Meg the last time she encountered London and Jonathan Dane. Jonathan said he loved her but when pushed to acknowledge their relationship after being caught chose to cut her instead. Now Serena posing as her late sister must come back to face the devil himself and make right what went completely wrong last time.
Her mother created a scenario where Serena had died not Meg and pushed Serena to be Meg and go through with a marriage to a titled man. Though Serena is appalled to think she will now be in London pretending to be her sister, assuming the role of a future bride she will do so to preserve her family’s good name and ensure her younger sisters have a chance to snare husbands. Serena will make this work or she will die trying.
However, when faced with Jonathan Serena has a hard time keeping up the façade, especially when Jonathan tells her he knows she is Serena not Meg. He admits he was the cruelest of men for what he did to her before but now he is the Sixth Earl of Stratford and he can right the wrongs, bring Serena back into his life, and give her a title as his wife. But can he make up for the lies he has told, clean up the life he has let go to waste, and take Serena away from his best friend the man she is to marry? What a tangled web Jonathan has web all by himself and now he is stuck in it and has no idea how to get out of it.
London is the same headache it was before for Serena but this time she is also trying to keep her sister Phoebe out of trouble, stay away from Jonathan, and pretend to be in love with Will and success is not very achievable. The draw to Jonathan is outweighing her duty to Will and her sister is one hot mess of hormones that no adult knows how to handle.
During this decoy realizes that in some ways, she is the naïve girl that left London in a scandal but a woman who wants to make an adult decision about marriage based on love. She has doubts about Jonathan but the passion that drew them together before is stronger than ever and the lust is as equally out of control. Jonathan promises love and respectability but can Serena believe him and risk everything on his word again?
This new series is fresh, exciting, and quite devious with reputations at stake, subterfuge in place and passion running rampant. I love Jennifer Haymore’s books as they always keep you guessing about what is going to happen next and how this will all turn out. You think you know and then she throws you a curve ball you did not see coming.
July 31, 2011
Now this is a book worthy of it's luscious characters with all their secrets and baggage on board. What starts out as a major scandal in the Ton leads to emotional pain and suffering so profound that it scars our characters for what seems a lifetime. Can deception bring about a sense of peace and less guilt or will it carve out a new saga that will only intensify what was started so many years ago?
Serena and Meg Donovan are identical twins in London for their first season. The girls mother has sent them to hopefully snatch a rich husband with a magnificent title thus hoping to influence the hubbies into bringing the rest of the family home to London from the West Indies and destitution. Unfortunately the girls are young and even though they have a proper chaperon with their Aunt it's not quite enough to keep them in check.
Jonathan Dane is tall, dark and handsome but quite immature. Second son of an Earl with no hopes of inheriting the title, Jonathan is left to his own devises. Unfortunately for him he gets caught with his hands in the cookie jar so to speak and must publicly cut his conquest or be forever banned from the family and left destitute to find his own way in life as a pauper after having lived the life of Riley with carousing, gambling and drink.
Our story starts out with the girls on their way home to the West Indies disgraced and tossed out by the Ton but if that isn't bad enough there is a terrible accident that will forever scar everyone involved.
Six long years go by before the story picks up again with a much older young lady heading back to London with her sister to live a lie with a deception so cruel that it could permanently cast them out if they are caught. It would also cause severe pain to the man involved and who knows what else may happen if such a dire secret were to become known.
Not long after the return to London do our Ladies meet up with the intended victim but also with another notorious rake by the name of Jonathan Dane that will make the females quiver in fear if he should become to close and discover that which could destroy them.
Will the Ton catch wind of the dirty little secret? Is it true that some things are better left unsaid or will our characters find the courage to tell all even if it kills them?
Jennifer Haymore has given us a wonderful Cinderella story that does have more than it's share of pain but also has more than it's share of passion. A wonderfully paced story that will take you from London to Greta Green and back with a lush amount of sass, finesse and pizazz to keep you well satisfied like a cat in front of a bowl of milk. Just delicious!
Serena and Meg Donovan are identical twins in London for their first season. The girls mother has sent them to hopefully snatch a rich husband with a magnificent title thus hoping to influence the hubbies into bringing the rest of the family home to London from the West Indies and destitution. Unfortunately the girls are young and even though they have a proper chaperon with their Aunt it's not quite enough to keep them in check.
Jonathan Dane is tall, dark and handsome but quite immature. Second son of an Earl with no hopes of inheriting the title, Jonathan is left to his own devises. Unfortunately for him he gets caught with his hands in the cookie jar so to speak and must publicly cut his conquest or be forever banned from the family and left destitute to find his own way in life as a pauper after having lived the life of Riley with carousing, gambling and drink.
Our story starts out with the girls on their way home to the West Indies disgraced and tossed out by the Ton but if that isn't bad enough there is a terrible accident that will forever scar everyone involved.
Six long years go by before the story picks up again with a much older young lady heading back to London with her sister to live a lie with a deception so cruel that it could permanently cast them out if they are caught. It would also cause severe pain to the man involved and who knows what else may happen if such a dire secret were to become known.
Not long after the return to London do our Ladies meet up with the intended victim but also with another notorious rake by the name of Jonathan Dane that will make the females quiver in fear if he should become to close and discover that which could destroy them.
Will the Ton catch wind of the dirty little secret? Is it true that some things are better left unsaid or will our characters find the courage to tell all even if it kills them?
Jennifer Haymore has given us a wonderful Cinderella story that does have more than it's share of pain but also has more than it's share of passion. A wonderfully paced story that will take you from London to Greta Green and back with a lush amount of sass, finesse and pizazz to keep you well satisfied like a cat in front of a bowl of milk. Just delicious!
August 6, 2011
Jonathan Dane has left Serena Donovan's reputation is tatters and returns to England as "Meg" a prim and proper young lady scheduled to marry in order to save her family and their name. Even though she is now "Meg", Jonathan is immediately drawn to her, just like the first time. Sparks fly between the handsome rake and Serena again. Serena must keep up appearances and deny her heart a second time.
Oh, what a tangled web we weave...Yes, Serena does weave a web of deceit but no more than any other lady of today. She struggles with guilt and lust and who can blame her. She doesn't want to marry someone she doesn't love but feels she has no choice. Through some wonderfully laid scenes, the plot weaves around like a dance between the two lovers and you can't help but hope that Serena and Jonathan end up together. Jonathan is a bad boy and he needs the love of someone like Serena to set him on the right path, but in order to win Serena, he will have to expose all of her lies.
I had so much fun reading this story. There were lots of wonderful twists and turns to the ending. The dialogue was believable and the descriptions were just right and not over the top. This is the first story in the series and now I can't wait for the next one. The next one is Olivia's story to be released early 2012. I normally don't comment on covers, but I LOVED this one. I really thought it captured the feeling of the book.
Oh, what a tangled web we weave...Yes, Serena does weave a web of deceit but no more than any other lady of today. She struggles with guilt and lust and who can blame her. She doesn't want to marry someone she doesn't love but feels she has no choice. Through some wonderfully laid scenes, the plot weaves around like a dance between the two lovers and you can't help but hope that Serena and Jonathan end up together. Jonathan is a bad boy and he needs the love of someone like Serena to set him on the right path, but in order to win Serena, he will have to expose all of her lies.
I had so much fun reading this story. There were lots of wonderful twists and turns to the ending. The dialogue was believable and the descriptions were just right and not over the top. This is the first story in the series and now I can't wait for the next one. The next one is Olivia's story to be released early 2012. I normally don't comment on covers, but I LOVED this one. I really thought it captured the feeling of the book.
May 25, 2014
Let me begin by saying that I DO NOT typically read Historical Romance books. I usually find them corny and way to damn cheesy if not raunchy as hell. So needless to say I was VERY pleasantly surprised when I picked this book up and just couldn't put it down! I was totally not expecting to love this book. I know I should have more faith in Jennifer Haymore since Isalys loves her but hey, I've been burned by Historical Romance authors before! I am now pleased to announce that I am a part of her fan club!
Confessions of an Improper Bride is the first book in the Donovan series. The prologue begins with the Donovan twins Serena and Meg, fleeing from England because Serena had ruined her reputation. She had fallen in love with the incredibly handsome Jonathan Dane who publicly denounced her after having had his way with her. While on the ship back home, Meg tries to comfort Serena and you are able to see how much they truly care for one another. Sadly, Meg gets thrown overboard never to return again. Once their mother hears of Meg’s death, she sends an obituary to England claiming that Serena was the one to perish on the ship! The mother, behind Serena’s back, continued corresponding with Meg’s boyfriend, William Langley, and after some time passes they get engaged. Serena, feeling guilty for having shamed her family, felt obligated to abide by her mother's wishes and took on Meg's persona. Six years later, Serena and her younger sister Phoebe are sent to England to introduce Phoebe into society. There, Serena begins her journey as Meg and pretends to love a man {William Langely} who doesn’t even know the real her. To add insult to injury, his best friend happens to be none other than Jonathan Dane himself! Throughout the story she must endure the pain of having to lie to everyone as well as silently suffer the loss of both her sister Meg and Jonathan's betrayal. Her story continually tugs at your heart and you find yourself wishing at least one thing could go right for her.
I truly enjoyed reading this book. I loved Serena’s character. She is strong willed, brave, and is an intelligent woman. I admired her for holding her ground and not giving in to temptation. Even though she was leading a life that wasn’t truly hers, she felt that she was doing what was right for her family and tried to make sure no one got hurt.
I appreciated the love scenes because they weren’t raunchy and disturbingly graphic. Jennifer Haymore took the time to build up the love and lust between the characters and then, when the time was right, they had their sensual moments. I also loved the twist at the end of the book that I did NOT see coming!
Overall I, a non-historical romance lover, thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!
Confessions of an Improper Bride is the first book in the Donovan series. The prologue begins with the Donovan twins Serena and Meg, fleeing from England because Serena had ruined her reputation. She had fallen in love with the incredibly handsome Jonathan Dane who publicly denounced her after having had his way with her. While on the ship back home, Meg tries to comfort Serena and you are able to see how much they truly care for one another. Sadly, Meg gets thrown overboard never to return again. Once their mother hears of Meg’s death, she sends an obituary to England claiming that Serena was the one to perish on the ship! The mother, behind Serena’s back, continued corresponding with Meg’s boyfriend, William Langley, and after some time passes they get engaged. Serena, feeling guilty for having shamed her family, felt obligated to abide by her mother's wishes and took on Meg's persona. Six years later, Serena and her younger sister Phoebe are sent to England to introduce Phoebe into society. There, Serena begins her journey as Meg and pretends to love a man {William Langely} who doesn’t even know the real her. To add insult to injury, his best friend happens to be none other than Jonathan Dane himself! Throughout the story she must endure the pain of having to lie to everyone as well as silently suffer the loss of both her sister Meg and Jonathan's betrayal. Her story continually tugs at your heart and you find yourself wishing at least one thing could go right for her.
I truly enjoyed reading this book. I loved Serena’s character. She is strong willed, brave, and is an intelligent woman. I admired her for holding her ground and not giving in to temptation. Even though she was leading a life that wasn’t truly hers, she felt that she was doing what was right for her family and tried to make sure no one got hurt.
I appreciated the love scenes because they weren’t raunchy and disturbingly graphic. Jennifer Haymore took the time to build up the love and lust between the characters and then, when the time was right, they had their sensual moments. I also loved the twist at the end of the book that I did NOT see coming!
Overall I, a non-historical romance lover, thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it!
July 1, 2011
Notes: I read the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book. The book comes out on July 26th.
Six years ago Serena Donovan fled London in humiliation after being caught in about as compromising a situation as is possible. Shortly after the "incident", the man whom she thought was "the one" gave her the cut direct in public stating he did not know her. Tragedy struck on the way home when her identical twin sister was knocked overboard in a freak accident and presumed dead. Her mother, thinking to make the best out of a tragic situation, told everyone it was Serena who had died. Only her immediate family knows the truth. Now she must face society once more as her sister, Meg, engaged to her sister's former beau. She never intended to enter London society again. She never intended to see him again. She never intended to make the same mistake twice...
I really enjoyed this story. I have to admit, however, the ending seemed a bit abrupt. I would have liked a few of the remaining loose ends tied up in an epilogue, but perhaps that will happen in a sequel? The story moved at a good pace and had a couple of twists. I love it when a story is not totally predictable. I enjoyed watching Jonathan Dane's inner struggle to determine if he was mad or sane in his suspicions that Serena was actually pretending to be Meg. Wondering if the woman he betrayed, yet loved, was still alive. Wondering if what he felt for Meg were the residual feelings of what he had felt for Serena. I also enjoyed watching Serena come to terms with her feelings for both Will, her betrothed, and Jonathan, the man she had once loved. This was the first book I have read by Jennifer Haymore, but it won't be the last. I look forward to reading the sequels. I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses.
If you'd like to read more of my reviews please check out my blog at:
www.seducedbyabook.com
Six years ago Serena Donovan fled London in humiliation after being caught in about as compromising a situation as is possible. Shortly after the "incident", the man whom she thought was "the one" gave her the cut direct in public stating he did not know her. Tragedy struck on the way home when her identical twin sister was knocked overboard in a freak accident and presumed dead. Her mother, thinking to make the best out of a tragic situation, told everyone it was Serena who had died. Only her immediate family knows the truth. Now she must face society once more as her sister, Meg, engaged to her sister's former beau. She never intended to enter London society again. She never intended to see him again. She never intended to make the same mistake twice...
I really enjoyed this story. I have to admit, however, the ending seemed a bit abrupt. I would have liked a few of the remaining loose ends tied up in an epilogue, but perhaps that will happen in a sequel? The story moved at a good pace and had a couple of twists. I love it when a story is not totally predictable. I enjoyed watching Jonathan Dane's inner struggle to determine if he was mad or sane in his suspicions that Serena was actually pretending to be Meg. Wondering if the woman he betrayed, yet loved, was still alive. Wondering if what he felt for Meg were the residual feelings of what he had felt for Serena. I also enjoyed watching Serena come to terms with her feelings for both Will, her betrothed, and Jonathan, the man she had once loved. This was the first book I have read by Jennifer Haymore, but it won't be the last. I look forward to reading the sequels. I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses.
If you'd like to read more of my reviews please check out my blog at:
www.seducedbyabook.com
March 31, 2013
Serena left England six years ago, after the man she fell in love with broke her heart. But on her voyage home to the West Indies, her sister, Meg, falls into the turbulent waves, lost. Now Serena six years later, has no choice but to return to England, to pose as her sister "Meg" and to marry someone she doesn't even love, and to live a life she knows she won't be fully happy with. However she has her mother and her sisters welfare to think about. When she reaches England, she comes face to face with the one man that hurt her, Jonathan, the Earl of Stratford. Now she is facing a big dilemma, she is engaged to Will, who has no idea of her real identity, and one she must keep secret from, and deal with all the emotions that come swirling back with Jonathan back in her life. Serena has no idea how she is suppose to pull it off, but will she make the right choice that could benefit all parties involved? Or choose a path that would only destroy her?Confessions Of An Improper Bride is the first book in the Donovan Sisters series. I have come to just love Jennifer Haymore's books. I just jumped right into this one, knowing that it was more than likely that I would enjoy it. I found that I truly enjoyed this one, there were so many aspects of the story that were fun and kept me engaged and involved in the story. I just loved how Haymore just reel's you in, and keeps you satisfied with this complex plot, and strong characters. Jonathan is a very deep character, at first you wonder if you will really like him, but I was so on his side all the way. You can see his dedication and love he has for Serena, and the way the author portrays the feelings felt by these characters are heart wrenching. I definitely felt like this story was a very sensual and engaging romantic tale!! A Lovely Story That Will Make You Fall In Love Again!!
June 24, 2019
This book was a real chore to get through. If it wasn’t for the competent writing I would have put this aside. The plot is tortured at best and, despite the last minute side plot with the younger sister, nothing really happens. Pretty much everyone is a liar here so that didn’t endear me to them. Despite the raging hormones for the H/h I wasn’t convinced they loved each other. Theirs is the sort of relationship which requires them to book a week in a hotel and get it out of their system.
The H was an especially bland - all I got was that he found Serena very attractive and he was remorseful. I guess that is something!
The ending especially gave me a headache - why was the last minute twist needed with Will!? No spoilers but it came across as clumsy attempt to give Will flaws and make Jonathan more redeemable. All I came away was a desperate desire to have the book end.
Why didn't I give this one star? Mainly because of Phoebe and Sebastian- that should have been the main romance. It was still a little overblown but I was move invested in them. For then alone - one star extra added.
Not recommended!
The H was an especially bland - all I got was that he found Serena very attractive and he was remorseful. I guess that is something!
The ending especially gave me a headache - why was the last minute twist needed with Will!? No spoilers but it came across as clumsy attempt to give Will flaws and make Jonathan more redeemable. All I came away was a desperate desire to have the book end.
Why didn't I give this one star? Mainly because of Phoebe and Sebastian- that should have been the main romance. It was still a little overblown but I was move invested in them. For then alone - one star extra added.
Not recommended!
August 5, 2012
This really should go on the "skimmed" shelf, rather than the "read" shelf. I just couldn't buy the idea of the surviving twin taking the place of the dead one and nobody figuring it out (at least for a long time). So, I was impatient to get through it and learn how everything ended. The author does have some very clever twists at the end, but it didn't make up for the drawn-out earlier parts and the annoying younger sister.
December 30, 2023
I was bound to hit a bump in the road with my current historical romance kick. This book was that bump. More like a pothole.
The heroine and the hero were both frustrating people. The side characters were frustrating. Not one likable character among the bunch.
And I really, really don’t like romances with two romance plot lines (the “main” couple and then a side couple). It rarely works for me, and that’s often because it’s just not necessary. It feels like an added plot line to make a page count than something that actually makes sense.
I was going to continue with the series but at this point, I don’t know that I want to.
2⭐️
The heroine and the hero were both frustrating people. The side characters were frustrating. Not one likable character among the bunch.
And I really, really don’t like romances with two romance plot lines (the “main” couple and then a side couple). It rarely works for me, and that’s often because it’s just not necessary. It feels like an added plot line to make a page count than something that actually makes sense.
I was going to continue with the series but at this point, I don’t know that I want to.
2⭐️
May 12, 2022
La ración de drama que necesitaba con un girito final que no llegaba a ver por donde iba a salir
November 17, 2019
I didn't hate this book, but I didn't love it. I read it so quickly...I started and finished it in one evening. The writing was really great and the development of the story and characters held me in it's grip. I was really enthralled, but it was more because of the pace and enjoyment of the story. When I'm reading a romance, I really want to be in love with the characters and that didn't happen in this book.
I enjoyed it, and I'm glad we get to read about the other Donovan sisters, but it was really just too much for my heart to handle. lol Hence...three stars. On to Oliva's book.
I enjoyed it, and I'm glad we get to read about the other Donovan sisters, but it was really just too much for my heart to handle. lol Hence...three stars. On to Oliva's book.
March 10, 2016
Serena left London scandalized only to return six years later pretending to be her dead twin, Meg. Her younger sister Phoebe is accompanying her. Serena plans to marry Will, the man Meg was in love with. After she has secured her spot in society her younger sisters, who remained behind with her mother in Antigua, will join her. Not only is she concerned about convincing all of London that she is actually Meg, but she is afraid to come face to face with Jonathan (The Earl of Stratford) who seduced her and subsequently shunned her when her reputation was in tatters.
Confessions of an Improper Bride just might be the best historical romance novel I’ve read in 2011. I was wowed. I was initially concerned about how the twin identity switch storyline would play out. Turns out I had no reason to be. The author handled it perfectly from start to finish. This series debut features such a well crafted story with characters I immediately fell in love with. I adored Serena/Meg and her younger sister Phoebe. Their willingness to risk everything for love was admirable. I also liked that they were more adventurous and outspoken than most female characters you find in historical romance.
Serena is such a well developed character. The author focused quite a bit on the inner turmoil she was experiencing over deceiving Will, as well as her disgust over her ability to simultaneously despise and desire Jonathan. Poor Serena was struggling with some serious guilt. I liked the unconventional love triangle that was happening between Serena, Jonathan, and Will, but couldn’t help but feel sorry for Will over the course of the novel. He was such a great catch, but unfortunately the sizzling chemistry between Serena and Jonathan made him seem almost dull. I imagine most men couldn’t help but appear dull in the presence of a man like Jonathan. He was the epitome of a reformed rake. Even with his reckless behavior after hearing of Serena’s death, I truly hoped they would find a way to achieve their happily ever after. They were without a doubt perfect for each other.
I also enjoyed Phoebe’s presence and felt it added something special to the story. I like the direction the author took with Phoebe and her love interest. It definitely helped to shape the outcome of Serena’s story. Two swoon worthy romances in one book equaled one very happy reader.
Confessions of an Improper Bride’s unique storyline has provided a stellar start to Jennifer Haymore's new series. I can’t wait to spend more time with the Donovan sisters in the next installment, Secrets of an Accidental Duchess.
Confessions of an Improper Bride just might be the best historical romance novel I’ve read in 2011. I was wowed. I was initially concerned about how the twin identity switch storyline would play out. Turns out I had no reason to be. The author handled it perfectly from start to finish. This series debut features such a well crafted story with characters I immediately fell in love with. I adored Serena/Meg and her younger sister Phoebe. Their willingness to risk everything for love was admirable. I also liked that they were more adventurous and outspoken than most female characters you find in historical romance.
Serena is such a well developed character. The author focused quite a bit on the inner turmoil she was experiencing over deceiving Will, as well as her disgust over her ability to simultaneously despise and desire Jonathan. Poor Serena was struggling with some serious guilt. I liked the unconventional love triangle that was happening between Serena, Jonathan, and Will, but couldn’t help but feel sorry for Will over the course of the novel. He was such a great catch, but unfortunately the sizzling chemistry between Serena and Jonathan made him seem almost dull. I imagine most men couldn’t help but appear dull in the presence of a man like Jonathan. He was the epitome of a reformed rake. Even with his reckless behavior after hearing of Serena’s death, I truly hoped they would find a way to achieve their happily ever after. They were without a doubt perfect for each other.
I also enjoyed Phoebe’s presence and felt it added something special to the story. I like the direction the author took with Phoebe and her love interest. It definitely helped to shape the outcome of Serena’s story. Two swoon worthy romances in one book equaled one very happy reader.
Confessions of an Improper Bride’s unique storyline has provided a stellar start to Jennifer Haymore's new series. I can’t wait to spend more time with the Donovan sisters in the next installment, Secrets of an Accidental Duchess.
February 3, 2013
Well, I made it to the end of this book, but given I was thrown out of the story on the very first line, I should have taken it as an omen. Calling a Portsmouth ship the Victory in 1822 and not expect readers to get confused with the famous HMS Victory, which was sitting in Portsmouth Dockyard at that time? Poor judgement or poor research.
The conflict was thinly stretched by the end of the book - it is more suited to a 200-page book and the slow pace reflects this - but perhaps I would have borne it if I had connected to and cared about the characters. Unfortunately, I never did. We are never led to celebrate the breaking of society's conventions and the characters' decisions to do so, and so are left to judge them for their poor choices. Hell, teenage sex in public places is not particularly wise today...
All - ALL - the characters had sex before marriage in the 1820s, yet the book does not build up to this as in a Lisa Kleypas novel, where we are wholeheartedly rooting for them (pardon the pun). It is backstory and, given how quickly the Donovan sisters drop their drawers without thinking, I can only imagine the author is wanting them to be the first family of blondes who give that hair colour a bad reputation.
This was my first Jennifer Haymore novel and it will be my last. There are a lot of historical novels out there that are hotter, sweeter, grittier and more adventurous. Don't waste your time on this one.
The conflict was thinly stretched by the end of the book - it is more suited to a 200-page book and the slow pace reflects this - but perhaps I would have borne it if I had connected to and cared about the characters. Unfortunately, I never did. We are never led to celebrate the breaking of society's conventions and the characters' decisions to do so, and so are left to judge them for their poor choices. Hell, teenage sex in public places is not particularly wise today...
All - ALL - the characters had sex before marriage in the 1820s, yet the book does not build up to this as in a Lisa Kleypas novel, where we are wholeheartedly rooting for them (pardon the pun). It is backstory and, given how quickly the Donovan sisters drop their drawers without thinking, I can only imagine the author is wanting them to be the first family of blondes who give that hair colour a bad reputation.
This was my first Jennifer Haymore novel and it will be my last. There are a lot of historical novels out there that are hotter, sweeter, grittier and more adventurous. Don't waste your time on this one.
April 4, 2013
I'm torn about my rating. This story had good character development and story development. The premise is that the ruined twin assumes the identity of the other who perished. Due to Serena's mother's machinations, Serena is trapped in a lie. And her former lover and her betrothed's best friend sees right through it.
The tangled web had me engrossed. Majority of the story is through Serena's eyes and a bit from Jonathan's. Her character and emotions are well developed. Jonathan's grief and shame also is well portrayed.
But I still didn't like Jonathan. While he grew a pair towards the end of the novel, he didn't really man up until then. He just seemed weak. And his youthful betrayal was also very hard to reconcile especially given the supposed depth of his feelings. That didn't work for me but that is purely personal taste rather than any fault of the author. Otherwise I would have given it a higher rating but I could say I really liked it either.
The tangled web had me engrossed. Majority of the story is through Serena's eyes and a bit from Jonathan's. Her character and emotions are well developed. Jonathan's grief and shame also is well portrayed.
But I still didn't like Jonathan. While he grew a pair towards the end of the novel, he didn't really man up until then. He just seemed weak. And his youthful betrayal was also very hard to reconcile especially given the supposed depth of his feelings. That didn't work for me but that is purely personal taste rather than any fault of the author. Otherwise I would have given it a higher rating but I could say I really liked it either.
September 19, 2012
I am very disappointed with the story line.
I don't like it.
Sadly, I skimmed a lot.
It was good I started Book 2.
It didn't work out for me but please reader, don't let my review influence you not to read this book. Maybe you will enjoy it. I love her writing and this one is a least favourite in her Donovan Sister's series.
November 29, 2011
Angsty. Lord above, was it angsty. I started crying in chapter 1 and spent most of the book wiping tears and trying to get my heart out of my throat. It took me a while to finish because I needed breaks from all the heart-wrenching emotion. (But I can't say I didn't care about the characters! *g*)
(I'm going to continue with the series because I absolutely must (must! MUST!) read book 3. I've been yearning for book 3 since the possibility of it popped into my head early in book 1.)
(I'm going to continue with the series because I absolutely must (must! MUST!) read book 3. I've been yearning for book 3 since the possibility of it popped into my head early in book 1.)
August 2, 2011
I am really surprised this book has such high ratings. The Prologue was intriguing. After that, I kept waiting for something to happen. By the time they finally got together, I didn't care anymore. The secondary romance was sweet, but took away from the main characters. This book fell flat for me, I never fell in love with the h or H. :-(
February 22, 2012
I wasn't sure about this book when I first started reading it. But when the plot came together, I really enjoyed it.
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