Romance Readers Reading Challenges discussion

by Amalie Howard

Can't wait!

Hey guys! Thanks for including me

Hey! No problem, i love to chat books so warned in advance i might ramble. 😂

Will use spoilers and chapter numbers though xx

I was curious do want to set a number of chapters or just read and see where we get too, just pop in whenever x

Probably a set number of chapters daily? That way is more fun, since we’ll all read at the same pace

Thats what i was thinking, so its around 27 chapter + epilogue. So 5 chapters a day, do 8 the last day? More or less?

2nd - 1 to 5
3rd - 6 to 10
4th - 11 to 15
5th - 16 to 20
6th - 20 to 27 + epilogue

That works :)

Awesome, works for me too!

This is my first buddy read so I'm a little unsure of what happens. Is it casual and we just talk about the stuff we read or?

Nikitha wrote: "This is my first buddy read so I'm a little unsure of what happens. Is it casual and we just talk about the stuff we read or?"

Yeah! Talk about what you liked, disliked, where you think the Story is going, anything that stood out to you

Okayy super, looking forward to it :)

Hi! I finished my 5 chapters for the day. Let me know when you guys are done and we can discuss

Awesome! I shall start when finish work, can't wait 😊

Nikitha wrote: "Hi! I finished my 5 chapters for the day. Let me know when you guys are done and we can discuss"

You'll probably be fast asleep by the time I finish my 5 chapters! Go ahead and post your thoughts using spoiler tags. You too Laura :) You both live too far to the east :P

Oh damn, okay!

(view spoiler)[
I didn't read the blurb properly so when the book started I thought that guy Beaumont was the hero and I was seriously disappointed because he seemed like a huge jerk. But I was glad to be mistaken because when Thane was introduced I automatically liked him. I love tortured hero stories so I'm sure9 I'll enjoy this!
I like Astrid a lot too, she seems brave and ahead of her times (especially with her name. I can only think of Astrid from How to Train your Dragon but this one seems loads better) and the banter between Thane and her is very entertaining xD
I'm looking forward to see how the living situation proceeds, what with the Aunt and the servants all having a vested interest in getting the Duke married, and how all the characters will come together and ofcourse, Thane and Astrid giving in to their desires :p (view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

Awesome! I am new to this buddy read too. I would also like to jump in.

Jans wrote: "Awesome! I am new to this buddy read too. I would also like to jump in."

Absolutely! Our schedule is in Message #5. Let us know if that works or if you'd like to go a tad slower :)

Aiswrya wrote: "Jans wrote: "Awesome! I am new to this buddy read too. I would also like to jump in."

Absolutely! Our schedule is in Message #5. Let us know if that works or if you'd like to go a tad slower :)"

It works. I will begin my read now.

(view spoiler)[
So, I read the first five chapters. I will plan out my ramblings.

The first chapter was excellent. The pace that the story moved brought out all the complications around Astrid's life. I liked the flow.

But, once it started gradually moving, I felt the story was anachronistic.

For a moment, I paused and wondered, which century story is this? The ideas and thought processes doesn't truly set with medieval time. So, I wondered if the story was modern England. But then, there was no mention of modern equipments.

I was confused. And certainly didn't feel associated with the way the characters' thought process revolved around.

Coming to characters and plots.

I like the beast and beauty concept. It's really refreshing to bring out the raw emotions of a war soldier. And equally interesting for Astrid to see beyond what Thane was made of.

The chemistry between them is on fire and I enjoyed it.

But within 5 chapters, I feel the plot is resolved. I got to know what Beaumont did, hoping my headcanon is right. And there is already brewing and simmering chemistry between the main characters. I wonder how the author is going to move the story now for 20 more chapters!

So far I enjoyed Thane.
Astrid had her moments. But sometimes, she comes off too talented. She seems to know about every skill. It doesn't fit with her medieval background.
(hide spoiler)]

I am in love with this story so far, i dont know if its because been so long since ive read mf or historical romance. The beauty and beast theme or something else, but i sped through those first 5 chapters.

Upto end of ch 5
(view spoiler)[Having read all of your responses so far, i can say there is some i agree on and others i don't 😂 Always love and interesting in buddy reads, to see what others read and get from the writing. So many perspectives.

First i adore the banter between Astrid and Thane, their chemistry is hot and entertaining. I love a kickass woman who isn't in need of a hero, their conflicts and experiances. I like that they're not all over each other yet, that theres the like/hate vibe going there.

I disagree Jans that lots been revealed as i feel so much still unknown to work through, such as what truly happened with Astrid and Beumont. Also the revelation that Beumont is the one that caused Thanes injuries and the death of their men, since he betrayed them. Neither are aware the other yet on that as Thane presumed its the older Beumont not Edward, who intended to marry Isobel. Im expecting him to show up again and Isobels season, the development of Astrid and Thane - getting to know each other.

I will say Astrid is incredibly talented for her times, although i find fitting as she seems a scholar and hasn't wed or been to season in like 7 years? If not more. So had plenty of time to learn and gain skills, without the hold of a man over her. As it seems the aunt and uncle dont really care, as long as out of the way and they have money... (hide spoiler)]

Overall im eager to read more, its totally grabbed me 💕

Quote i fell in love with from first 5 chapters to wrap up so far for me,
- "Because sometimes a girl doesn't need a hero to save her. Sometimes she needs the opposite."

Oh my gosh, I love the book so far! I'm totally hooked! After an awful day at work, I really needed the laughs.

Chapters 1 through 5:
(view spoiler)[
I was severely disappointed after reading the first chapter! I too didn't read the precis before starting the book today, so I thought the Earl of what's-his-face was the MC. I was so ready to rant here lol.

I adored the banter between Thane and Astrid (Lady Astringent 😂😂) it's charming and funny. The chemistry between them is hawtt. And I honestly loved that Thane cussed in front of the ladies. The typical HR themes with a prim and proper gentleman is so frustrating. The supporting characters are great too! I expect loads of entertainment from the Aunt in the upcoming chapters!

It does seem a little ahead of the time it is supposedly set in, but hey! It's fiction :P

(hide spoiler)]

Can't wait to read the next set!

EDIT:
(view spoiler)[
PS- was anyone else totally expecting them to kiss in that scene with Brutus? Thane was so clearly jealous and thought she was having a secret rendezvous! I got all excited for nothing lol
(hide spoiler)]

Laura wrote: "Quote i fell in love with from first 5 chapters to wrap up so far for me, "Because sometimes a girl doesn't need a hero to save her. Sometimes she needs the opposite."

Yeah, that totally got me all teary-eyed!

Laura wrote: "I disagree Jans that lots been revealed as i feel so much still unknown to work through, such as what truly happened with Astrid and Beumont. Also the revelation that Beumont is the one that caused Thanes injuries and the death of their men, since he betrayed them. Neither are aware the other yet on that as Thane presumed its the older Beumont not Edward, who intended to marry Isobel. Im expecting him to show up again and Isobels season, the development of Astrid and Thane - getting to know each other. ..."

I expect Beumont to create problems between them, especially regarding Thane's scars! Hopefully, it doesn't turn into too much drama!

Jans wrote: "
So, I read the first five chapters. I will plan out my ramblings.

The first chapter was excellent. The pace that the story moved brought out all the complications around Astrid's life. I liked th..."

I thought the language was a little out of that time too, especially because Thane keeps saying "fuck". I feel like I've forgotten what its like in the HRs I've read but it just felt a little foreign in that settting.

And yes, the plot is predictable but most romance books are like that and I for one am a sucker for some clichés, so I'm looking forward to how it all proceeds

Aiswrya wrote: "Oh my gosh, I love the book so far! I'm totally hooked! After an awful day at work, I really needed the laughs.

Chapters 1 through 5:

I was severely disappointed after reading the first chapter! ..."

Yes I was expecting them to kiss too but I'm glad they didn't! It prolongs the tension :p

Nikitha wrote: "Jans wrote: "
So, I read the first five chapters. I will plan out my ramblings.

The first chapter was excellent. The pace that the story moved brought out all the complications around Astrid's lif..."

I think 'fuck' is forgivable. For me, the ideologies are too 21st century. Astrid is quite cynical and her inner monologues are filled with feminist ideologies, when in fact the medieval people aren't that matured enough in categorizing their anger. They blend in with the society, even if they are angered.

And the addressing terms like 'Your Grace' seems so wrong.

I know this is my rambling. The author has used rich vocabulary and the best part is, I don't find it becoming "purple prose" or so irrelevant. I enjoyed the literature. But, she could have analysed more about how the mindset of the people of her time would be.

Nikitha wrote: "And yes, the plot is predictable but most romance books are like that and I for one am a sucker for some clichés, so I'm looking forward to how it all proceeds"

Haha! I think I am quite skeptical of cliches.

The plot is predictable. Agreed!

But there is no much tension element. They already got the chemistry burning. I feel they already understood each other.

Thane feels Astrid could see him beyond his layers. At the same time, Astrid truly gets why Thane is being an asshole.

Laura wrote: "I am in love with this story so far, i dont know if its because been so long since ive read mf or historical romance. The beauty and beast theme or something else, but i sped through those first 5 ..."

This is my first buddy read. So, I didn't know what to expect. But I am too enjoying different perspectives from you, Nikita and Aiswrya.

Thank you :)

Aiswrya wrote: "Oh my gosh, I love the book so far! I'm totally hooked! After an awful day at work, I really needed the laughs.

Chapters 1 through 5:

I was severely disappointed after reading the first chapter! ..."

Thane's jealousy truly made the last part so amazing

Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "I am in love with this story so far, i dont know if its because been so long since ive read mf or historical romance. The beauty and beast theme or something else, but i sped through ..."

This is my first one too! I don't get to discuss a lot with my friends because none of them read the same stuff so this is fun for me 😊

I like cliches a lot in moderation, although i did go into this one expecting those as its likes beauty & beast retelling so predictable in that way already there 😂

Had another look over the time setting since you mentioned it and i can agree does seem ahead of its time in aspects. I was thinking more late 18s or early 19s was the time set, but i was wrong. It doesn't bother me too much though as i probably wouldnt enjoy as much with a less strong willed female character, it was one thing that annoyed me a lot in the past with books. Woman just keeping all bottled up and being walked over... Nope.

Which is why i probably wouldnt have survived in history 😂

I do agree they already quite well with each other, see past the appearance and accept each other. Although i still feel tension from the outside characters impact and if they go out together in society, for Isabels season etc... Im expecting drama.

I didn't care for his Jealousy, as always find foolish presumption just because guy stood with her. But it is historical and true to the times, the alpha male aspect i guess. But i did love Astrid just dismissing him and riding away on the horse, i think im in love with her more than him at the moment.

So yeah i don't read a lot of mf these days. Its rather nice to get back into and read with you all, especially for historical as love those. 😊

Oh congrats both of you and thanks for picking this one to be your first! I do hope will enjoy it, i know i can ramble on. I don't get chance to talk books much either so always adore buddy reads x

Chapters 6-10
(view spoiler)[
I'm still liking it a lot. We get to know more about the scandal that brought Astrid down and also find out Thane's father's role in that. I sympathize with Astrid because I can see that she is constantly switching between wanting to be herself and speak her mind versus playing her role in society as a demure, opinion less woman. I respect her determination to keep Isobel safe and willing to sacrifice her pride to do so.
Thane on the other hand, is holding on to his pride with both hands because he thinks its the only thing he has left, which is understandable.
There seems to be a hint of miscommunication between them which I hope won't continue as a theme because it's my least favourite kind of drama. Also, I was kind of getting annoyed with Isobel, she seemed a little ungrateful towards Thane and kept fixating on his looks which I understand when coupled with his attitude can be scary but I feel like she should at least try to be discreet about it. But she seemed to be coming around towards the end of these chapters so maybe she will get better.
I knew that Thane was going to dramatically announce that Astrid was his future wife but it was still a good scene!
Also, Jans, maybe Astrid does come off as a bit of an overachiever in the conversation at breakfast with everybody but like Laura said, she's had a lot of time on her hands.
(view spoiler)[
I can't think of anything else right now but I'm waiting to see what you guys think! (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

I can't think of anything else right now but waiting to see what you guys think!

Laura wrote: "I like cliches a lot in moderation, although i did go into this one expecting those as its likes beauty & beast retelling so predictable in that way already there 😂

Had another look over the time ..."

I agree! I can’t read books that portray women as submissive and incapable of making decisions for themselves! Even in some contemporary novels, a-so-called “alpha” male is defined as one that looks after his woman.**cringe** This is not a problem with just mf books tbh. I’ve read a few mm books too where the portray an unhealthy, unequal relationship- case in point Alpha Unit One, New York

Aiswrya wrote: "Laura wrote: "I like cliches a lot in moderation, although i did go into this one expecting those as its likes beauty & beast retelling so predictable in that way already there 😂

Had another look ..."

Lol tbh i don't mind alpha males in certain parts, as long as they can be taught 😂 i definitely have seen in mm as well, its not just an mf thing but just lot more prominent i think as its an old cliche.

I actually loved Alpha unit one, new york. But it does fit alpha male aspect. Although it seemed to suit the theme the author was going for in terms of their shifters, so i didn't mind it so much. It helped that the guy, hid his shifter side and such to start with i think so he could work with police? The unequel aspect seemed part of the world building not so much the relationship, as they considered like 2nd class or children/unpredictable. Which will admit frustrated me a lot. I enjoyed the sequel more.

But yeah exceptions to every rule i guess 😂

I don't mind submission in parts in fact i love it, as long as not no damsel in distress waiting for someone to do everything for them. Or a guy that walks all over them, doesn't allow them to make any choices or actually listens to them. Treat like an object just nope. 😂

I am loving this book so much, i adore the characters and all their flaws 💕

Ch 6 to end ch10
(view spoiler)[I enjoyed learning more about Astrids history and getting into her head, what happened on her season and her lack of trust or belief in people makes sense. She is strong willed and her love for her sister, definitely makes her struggle there as she wants to protect her in any way possible.

I expected Beaumont to show up again and i hate him so much! I did enjoy the confrontation though with Thane and allowing for development with Astrid. His knowing Cain and wanting to catch him out in his lies, from the warfront and in general.

Im with you Nikitha, in that Isobel started getting on my nerves in just her disrespect in general and yet i guess she is a contrast to Astrid there so doesn't surprise me. As she seems almost the opposite, being more suited to the times and woman about duties/feminine qualities.

I adore Thanes Aunt though and Fletcher, the sass and sarcasm is awesome there! He doesnt just let Thane get away with things and pushes him which he definitely needs. As you say his holding onto his pride, since expects either pity or fear from those around him.

I did like the comparison of like Astrids scars being on the inside and hidden, while Thanes are displayed for all to see. Keep their true emotions bottled, their chemistry and passion is great through and the first kiss was stunning.

Love good scenery and that greenhouse, flowers, the bathing room and sunrise just so many beautiful moments here. (hide spoiler)]

I had like 4 quotez i enjoyed a lot this time round, but i loved this short one as seemed fitting and the imagery is pretty to me.
- "Her life could be a constellation of ifs."

Im eager to read the next after how ch 10 ended💕

Chapters 6 through 10
(view spoiler)[
I'll be honest. I liked this part of the book much less than I did the first five chapters. While their banter was fun initially, there was too much cruelty in this part of the book. I definitely liked Thane a lot less after the scene with Fletcher in his study. I can't ever deal with the high-handedness of some men - "I'm no virgin but the woman I marry has to be as pure as the day she was born" puke! I also didn't appreciate those barbs against Astrid about her being thrown out of his house. I can sympathize with this dude to a small extent (with people being cruel to him due to his scars, his has just grown to be defensive) BUT that is no reason to return the favor! The male pride is such a fragile thing!!

That being said, he managed to redeem himself in Chapter 10! As Niki said, I expected his announcement to marry Astrid to be a grand gesture and it certainly didn't disappoint. Beaumont is such a dick and I genuinely hate that guy! While I still don't want Isobel to end up with him, she isn't very nice either. Totally agree with both your views here! I would be grateful to the person who offered me sanctuary but she is so ill-mannered. It's worse because there is so much emphasis on behavior among members of the ton!

Talking about the side characters, Fletcher is a definite favorite. I wanted to see more of the Aunt though. When she was initially introduced, she seemed like a charming person, but we get to see very little of her during this part of the book.

The chemistry between Thane and Astrid still makes my heart race so yes, definitely excited to read the next chapter!
(hide spoiler)]

My favorite scene - when he says "I like it when you call me Thane" and Astrid says "And I'd like if you dropped dead!". Gold! LOL

(view spoiler)[
Yup I hate Beaumont too
Fletcher is a great secondary character, I love how much he understands Thane but also doesn't hesitate to tell him no when he's being unreasonable. I like the Aunt too but like Aishu said we don't really get to know her, just some hint of her wild past. But I'm fully expecting a scene with Thane and the Aunt where she basically tells him to pull his head out of his butt xD
Laura, I also thought the constellation of ifs quote was really nice!
And ya Aishu I agree that Thane's jerk-ness can only be excused to some extent but I think its imperative to the story that he be a jerk at least in the beginning, otherwise there wouldn't really wouldn't be a plotline.

My favourite scene- I'm paraphrasing here but when Thane says something like "shocking tender sensibilities is my only source of amusement" and Astrid replies "then I hope I'll never be as bored as you".
(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

Nikitha wrote: "
Yup I hate Beaumont too
Fletcher is a great secondary character, I love how much he understands Thane but also doesn't hesitate to tell him no when he's being unreasonable. I like the Aunt too but..."

Lol that was a fun scene!

Chapters 11-15
(view spoiler)[
I really enjoyed these chapters. All I could think of was "oops" when everybody walked in on them making out but I liked how the situation was handled. Even though Astrid suspected that Thane had arranged for it to happen like that, I'm glad they actually had a conversation about it instead of just assuming things and arguing. Astrid's family is horrible and I loved how Fletcher stood up to them, it was hilarious.
My favourite though was when Astrid says "It is not fear that is making me shiver". That was amazing!
Isobel running off was kind of a shock because though Thane and Astrid were convinced she's strong willed and can take care of herself, it just felt off character to me but I guess she loves her sister enough to make that kind of an out of character decision. It gives an additional storyline though so I'm happy.
And they got married! In breeches that too 🤣 That entire chapter was really good and of course their wedding night too. But obviously it was too good to last. I felt bad for Thane and I understand that its hard to acknowledge your own worth when everybody else is telling you otherwise. I'm also glad that Astrid understands where his insecurities are coming from and she tries to talk to him about it but she also knows that she can't always be the one reaching out. She has also been wounded in the past and she's wary of Thane and his intentions as is evident when he goes off to London without telling her after she runs away from their kiss but she's at least trying not to let her past rule her actions. Thane hounding Fletcher about Astrid was pathetic but also very sweet.
Favourite scene- Astrid telling Thane that Beaumont is a toad and that he should kiss him and they can live happily ever after 😂
(view spoiler)[ (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]

Oh i adored those scenes too! I just love the banter and Astrid shutting down of comments is definitely a lot of fun. I enjoyed the one about stones and glasshouses, being careful what you say.

I agree Aiswyra i wasn't too keen on that scene either with Thane talking about her with Fletcher, although again i expected it as similar to the beast as usual. He makes a fool of himself, in his damned pride and anger at the world. I think it was more the fact it was Cain that he found disgusting and made him angry, along with the scandal aspect. I didn't think the impure aspect brought up as they had actually discussed before, so he already presumes she has been with other even if not true.

Lol tbh they all make lot of presumptions at moment and miscommunication like Nikitha says which can be annoying if dragged out. Astrid allows others to assume things about her since she expects them not to believe her anyway, while Thane shouts because he wants to be seen but gets a lot of fear or pity these days.

I think they're very well suited and adore the chemistry between them too!

Look forward to reading 11 to 15 when home from work 😊

I just started reading Chapter 11!! I’m loving the drama!! ❤️❤️

Yess these 5 chapters were really good

Oh my gosh! I completely lost track of chapters and ended up reading 16 as well! Sorry you guys! I'll try not to talk about Chapter 16 :(

Chapters 11 through 16
(view spoiler)[
Chapter 11 was off to an amazing start!! Yeah, it was a total "Oh Shit" moment when everyone walks in on them making out, but as Niki said, I'm so glad they discussed it instead of assuming the worst about each other.
Favorite scene here (and I have several in this set):
Fletcher: "Do you want a blanket, Your Grace?"
Thane: "No, why do you ask?"
Fletcher: "Heard it's been snowing rather heavily in Hell!" ROTFL!!!

I did not see Isobel running off to London, that was a little silly after everything they both went through to get away from Beaumont. At this point, I couldn't contain my curiosity about the next book in the series lol (which is in fact about Isobel) and the cover looks delicious! I can't wait for it to be published! It's about the Marquess of Roth and there is a passing comment made about Thane meeting the Marquess, so I'm going to say he was plotting something between Roth and Isobel (maybe at the masquerade? That would be awesome!)


The wedding itself was all hasty and underwhelming, Thane's vows were very moving (did anyone guess that his name is Nathaniel? I've ever heard of a Nathaniel going by Thane!) but Astrid says a pathetic "i will" or something along those lines. The wedding night was sizzling but of course! Thane's behavior had to suck in the following few scenes! If I were Astrid, I would be bawling my eyes out!
Favorite scene here: Fletcher: "I let hate poison me so much that I walked away from any chance at happiness" Poor Fletcher :(

I think it was nice that Thane finally talks to her in the garden. I loved her sass when she said "I wouldn't kiss you even if you were the last man in England".

One last quote that really stood out to me here (and I think this might have been in Chapter 16, so I won't give any context) was "Just because something is fractured doesn't mean it has lost it's value". Sigh!

(hide spoiler)]

Nikitha wrote: "(view spoiler)[Favourite scene- Astrid telling Thane that Beaumont is a toad and that he should kiss him and they can live happily ever after 😂 (hide spoiler)] "

I knowww that scene was hilarious!

Laura wrote: "Oh i adored those scenes too! I just love the banter and Astrid shutting down of comments is definitely a lot of fun. I enjoyed the one about stones and glasshouses, being careful what you say.

I ..."
Agreed! a couple chapters in this set were all about the miscommunications but I think Astrid is making slow progress with helping Thane overcome his insecurities

This one is about Chapter 16, so don't read it yet!

(view spoiler)[
OMG I pretty sure Hades or Lucifer or whatever the hell he is, is Thane!! That's so adorable. He makes a big deal of not going to the masquerade but he does go in the end for Astrid. Awwww

And we finally have more of the Aunt! I love her open-mindedness and feminist views!
(hide spoiler)]

Yeah the garden scene was great. I love that he wants to avoid her but he can't really help himself.
Fletcher having such a dark past was unexpected but a nice touch, it really shows that if you try hard enough then you can be happy irrespective of what you've been through in life.
Ok the Goodreads app sucks so much, I opened this notification on my phone and it didn't censor the spoiler for chapter 16. I love spoilers so its ok with me but if the rest of you don't then be careful!