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Distinguished Rogues #14
Desire by Design
A surprising offer�
Spinster Sylvia Hillcrest will never marry, but that does not mean she has to ignore the occasional flirtation aimed her way, or the chance to indulge her secret vice in societies best card rooms. When she’s suddenly given a fortune to wager, but asked to lose it to one particular family, it’s an intriguing challenge too irresistible to pass up. So too is the devilish marquess carelessly flirting with her every chance he gets.
…a secret delight
Faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. His plan, of course, was destined to succeed, and he spends one scandalous night celebrating with the spinster in his bed. They agreed it was just a fling, but what’s a marquess to do when he craves so much more?
Spinster Sylvia Hillcrest will never marry, but that does not mean she has to ignore the occasional flirtation aimed her way, or the chance to indulge her secret vice in societies best card rooms. When she’s suddenly given a fortune to wager, but asked to lose it to one particular family, it’s an intriguing challenge too irresistible to pass up. So too is the devilish marquess carelessly flirting with her every chance he gets.
…a secret delight
Faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. His plan, of course, was destined to succeed, and he spends one scandalous night celebrating with the spinster in his bed. They agreed it was just a fling, but what’s a marquess to do when he craves so much more?
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2020
72 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Heather Boyd
217books749followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Heather Boyd believes every character she creates deserves their own happily-ever-after—no matter how much trouble she puts them through. With that goal in mind, she writes steamy romances that skirt the boundaries of propriety to keep readers enthralled until the wee hours of the morning. Heather has published over sixty regency romance novels and shorter works full of daring seductions and distinguished rogues. She lives north of Sydney, Australia, with her trio of rogues and a four-legged overlord. To learn more visit
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July 9, 2020
Desire by Design
Distinguished Rogues Series #14
Heather Boyd
Release date 07/14/2020
Blurb :
A surprising offer�
Spinster Sylvia Hillcrest will never marry, but that does not mean she has to ignore the occasional flirtation aimed her way, or the chance to indulge her secret vice in societies best card rooms. When she’s suddenly given a fortune to wager, but asked to lose it to one particular family, it’s an intriguing challenge too irresistible to pass up. So too is the devilish marquess carelessly flirting with her every chance he gets.
…a secret delight
Faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. His plan, of course, was destined to succeed, and he spends one scandalous night celebrating with the spinster in his bed. They agreed it was just a fling, but what’s a marquess to do when he craves so much more?
A steamy regency historical romance novel.
My review :
Will he be able to see past his own preconceived ideas to realize what is really of importance...
Mrs Heather Boyd is one of these authors we hear few about them but when they release a new book, I am sure I need it.
And this one files all the boxes.
I meet the trio of cousins in the previous book, so here is Sylvia’s story. An overlooked spinster with a sensual side she must hide and Wharton, a control freak, who will be taught a hard lesson by the disregarded wallflower.
How I loved Sylvia, she is bold and respectful, she knows she has a very limited scope to act as she wants, so she has to hide her true self to the Ton, a very unforgiving lot easily swayed.
Why when Wharton who has passed by her a handful of times, and never looked twice on her; finally has a glimpse of the fiery Sylvia lurking beneath the mask, he edicts he wants her to be more than a friend’s acquaintance.
Yet, she is the one risking the most.
Sylvia while she is free to dream of any temping man she encounters, she is in a difference situation with a marquess, she a nobody of importance.
With him, she for a moment reveals the passionate woman she is. And when things take a different turn between them, she is very forgiving but also determined to show him she does not back down. She is not one to sell her soul even for a few riches, she never compromises. And a promise is a promise.
Wharton is on a journey of revelations, he will learn not all his decisions were rights, by keeping his family at bay, he estranged himself from them. And by acting harshly in heat of the moment or protecting his heart by avoiding any entanglement, it might have a price he is not expecting to deliver.
Mrs Boyd with this new addition to her series offers a lovely redeeming story of a man who lost sight of what is important.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
Distinguished Rogues Series #14
Heather Boyd
Release date 07/14/2020
Blurb :
A surprising offer�
Spinster Sylvia Hillcrest will never marry, but that does not mean she has to ignore the occasional flirtation aimed her way, or the chance to indulge her secret vice in societies best card rooms. When she’s suddenly given a fortune to wager, but asked to lose it to one particular family, it’s an intriguing challenge too irresistible to pass up. So too is the devilish marquess carelessly flirting with her every chance he gets.
…a secret delight
Faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. His plan, of course, was destined to succeed, and he spends one scandalous night celebrating with the spinster in his bed. They agreed it was just a fling, but what’s a marquess to do when he craves so much more?
A steamy regency historical romance novel.
My review :
Will he be able to see past his own preconceived ideas to realize what is really of importance...
Mrs Heather Boyd is one of these authors we hear few about them but when they release a new book, I am sure I need it.
And this one files all the boxes.
I meet the trio of cousins in the previous book, so here is Sylvia’s story. An overlooked spinster with a sensual side she must hide and Wharton, a control freak, who will be taught a hard lesson by the disregarded wallflower.
How I loved Sylvia, she is bold and respectful, she knows she has a very limited scope to act as she wants, so she has to hide her true self to the Ton, a very unforgiving lot easily swayed.
Why when Wharton who has passed by her a handful of times, and never looked twice on her; finally has a glimpse of the fiery Sylvia lurking beneath the mask, he edicts he wants her to be more than a friend’s acquaintance.
Yet, she is the one risking the most.
Sylvia while she is free to dream of any temping man she encounters, she is in a difference situation with a marquess, she a nobody of importance.
With him, she for a moment reveals the passionate woman she is. And when things take a different turn between them, she is very forgiving but also determined to show him she does not back down. She is not one to sell her soul even for a few riches, she never compromises. And a promise is a promise.
Wharton is on a journey of revelations, he will learn not all his decisions were rights, by keeping his family at bay, he estranged himself from them. And by acting harshly in heat of the moment or protecting his heart by avoiding any entanglement, it might have a price he is not expecting to deliver.
Mrs Boyd with this new addition to her series offers a lovely redeeming story of a man who lost sight of what is important.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
July 19, 2020
Loved, loved, loved this. The characters were hilarious, entertaining and delightful. Ms. Heather Boyd did an amazing job describing the different nuances in relationships e.g. lovers, mother and son, son and sisters, son and friends and the lover with her two cousins. There is so much going on in this story it was difficult to put down. I read it straight through to the end. I wish there had been an extended epilogue I would have loved to see a sneak peek at the couple’s future. This is a must read and I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2020
This being the 14th book in the series but a first for me; I was concerned with how I was going to keep up. But it was very easy and instantly fell in love with the characters both main and secondary. Sylvia and Alexander's story was realistic and loved that they didn't instantly fall in love; and it showed how some little spats shouldn't stop a couple from finding love. What starts as a way to help them both; him with seeing his friends safe from financial ruin and her a lover turns into a beautiful story of second chances and long lasting love.
July 24, 2020
What a delightful story. I loved it! I absolutely adore this brilliant series. 5�
July 9, 2020
4.5 Stars
Sylvia has met Alexander on a few occasions but then her close friends the Carmichaels invite the pair to indulge in a card game, Where Sylvia's talent is revealed. Then faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, Alexander the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Syliva Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. Sylvia & her two cousins run the Hillcrest Academy, which teaches young men the skills needed for successful courtship. Sylvia likes to take a daily walk & whilst out walking meets Lizzie who looks as though she has the cares of the world on her shoulders, the pair soon become close friends.
I can’t believe this is the fourteenth book in the series, it could easily be read on its own but characters from earlier books do make appearances. I loved the arrogant but hardworking Alexander who loves being in control he certainly met his match in the feisty Sylvia who was anything but meek & mild. I loved the way they locked horns whilst all the time their attraction & chemistry was sizzling I also loved the friendship between Sylvia & Lizzie. A well written engrossing read with strong characters
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Sylvia has met Alexander on a few occasions but then her close friends the Carmichaels invite the pair to indulge in a card game, Where Sylvia's talent is revealed. Then faced with a situation he cannot solve alone, Alexander the Marquess of Wharton designs a masterful scheme to use Miss Syliva Hillcrest’s hidden talents for cards to pass a small fortune to a desperate friend. Sylvia & her two cousins run the Hillcrest Academy, which teaches young men the skills needed for successful courtship. Sylvia likes to take a daily walk & whilst out walking meets Lizzie who looks as though she has the cares of the world on her shoulders, the pair soon become close friends.
I can’t believe this is the fourteenth book in the series, it could easily be read on its own but characters from earlier books do make appearances. I loved the arrogant but hardworking Alexander who loves being in control he certainly met his match in the feisty Sylvia who was anything but meek & mild. I loved the way they locked horns whilst all the time their attraction & chemistry was sizzling I also loved the friendship between Sylvia & Lizzie. A well written engrossing read with strong characters
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 28, 2020
Loved this story. Sylvia is visiting with some friends who decide to set up a game of cards with Alexander, just so they can watch her beat him over and over again. Luckily he doesn’t mind losing his money to her and decides that she would be the perfect person to help him get some money to a couple that he knows is in financial trouble, without them realizing that they are being offered charity. Sylvia and Alexander’s paths cross often and eventually the 2 of them decide to have a quick fling and then walk away agreeing that there could be nothing further. As Sylvia is out for a walk, she encounters an elderly lady who seems rather sad and the two of them become friends. Sylvia eventually finds out that her new friend, Lizzy, is her lover’s mother and she promised her that she would tell no one, including Alexander, that she was to undergo major surgery that might kill her. Sylvia stays with her and offers emotional support during the surgery and then keeps a bedside vigil after. Alexander is furious once he finds out and forcibly removes Sylvia from his mother’s rental home. Of course members of the ton see this and the rumour mill runs rampant which causes issues for Sylvia and her cousins. It’s at this time that Alexander finally realizes that he hasn’t been a very good brother nor son and eventually he also realizes that he isn’t as desirable as he thought. I love that Sylvia isn’t falling all of herself to be with him and that he needs to work for it. I enjoy stories with a strong female lead who doesn’t define herself by what society thinks nor by a man. This standalone romance is worth a read if you enjoy historical romances with interesting, strong characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2020
Alexander, the Marquess of Wharton, is enjoying his bachelor lifestyle. A chance meeting with spinster Sylvia Hillcrest, fits nicely into his plan to help his friend from financial ruin. Sylvia is an outstanding card player and she helps steer the came so that Alexander's friend wins a substantial pot of money. When Alexander invites Sylvia to his bedchamber, he's thrilled that she's such a engaging lover, but he soon learns that he craves Sylvia's company more than he ever thought possible. Can he win her love after his appalling behavior towards her?
I expected a different sort of book based on the cover and the story itself was only somewhat entertaining. I didn't warm up to Alexander's character at all. He was arrogant, bossy and totally ignored his family. I thought his plan to help his friend recover his gambling losses by having him win at gambling was only reinforcing his friend's reckless behavior. I liked Sylvia's character better. She had a compassionate heart. I figured out who her mysterious stranger was early on before the stranger reveals her identity. I've never read about the surgery that takes place in this book in any other book and was quite surprised by it.
I've read other Heather Boyd books, but this one was not my favorite. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
I expected a different sort of book based on the cover and the story itself was only somewhat entertaining. I didn't warm up to Alexander's character at all. He was arrogant, bossy and totally ignored his family. I thought his plan to help his friend recover his gambling losses by having him win at gambling was only reinforcing his friend's reckless behavior. I liked Sylvia's character better. She had a compassionate heart. I figured out who her mysterious stranger was early on before the stranger reveals her identity. I've never read about the surgery that takes place in this book in any other book and was quite surprised by it.
I've read other Heather Boyd books, but this one was not my favorite. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
July 13, 2020
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I enjoyed it very much. Alexander is a busy, bossy nobleman who does what he wants and gets what he wants. Sylvia has made a place for herself in the world that leaves her reasonably content. When unusual circumstances cause him to really look at her, chemistry flares between them. A friendship Sylvia has made with an older woman named Lizzie becomes something the 3 of them actually share, and which significantly complicates the fling between Alexander and Sylvia. Everything gets tied up in a complicated knot that seems to be impossible to untangle.
I started this book intending to read a few chapters and then come back to it the next day. Definite error in judgment on my part! Once I started reading, the story pulled me in and I could not put it down. So many things about this book with unique, but I don’t do spoilers, so I’m asking you to trust me and read it for yourself. Meanwhile, I’m going to go investigate other books by Heather Boyd.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
I started this book intending to read a few chapters and then come back to it the next day. Definite error in judgment on my part! Once I started reading, the story pulled me in and I could not put it down. So many things about this book with unique, but I don’t do spoilers, so I’m asking you to trust me and read it for yourself. Meanwhile, I’m going to go investigate other books by Heather Boyd.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
July 8, 2020
Sylvia Hillcrest has decided that she will never marry but in doing so, she can still manage to play in the best card rooms, society has to offer. However, she finds herself in an interesting situation when the Marquess of Wharton decides to use her talents to fund his friend, who is in desperate need of money. Yet, the events that transpire, lead them to question what they truly want.
This was definitely a book that was divided into two. One story examined centred on Alexander, the Marquess of Wharton, and his relationship with Sylvia, whilst the second component, focussed more on Sylvia’s relationship with Alex’s mother, Lizzy. Whilst unaware of the connection to Alexander, Sylvia finds a wonderful friend in Lizzy, to the extent that they often ignored Alexander to follow their own pursuits. What was interesting, was Alexander’s response to his mother’s secret. Whilst typical of the time period, his response shows the vulnerability of men when events are somewhat out of their control. The character of Sylvia was also quite interesting as she never appears to be completely at the whim of Alexander, showing a strength of character that was refreshing. Overall, an entertaining read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This was definitely a book that was divided into two. One story examined centred on Alexander, the Marquess of Wharton, and his relationship with Sylvia, whilst the second component, focussed more on Sylvia’s relationship with Alex’s mother, Lizzy. Whilst unaware of the connection to Alexander, Sylvia finds a wonderful friend in Lizzy, to the extent that they often ignored Alexander to follow their own pursuits. What was interesting, was Alexander’s response to his mother’s secret. Whilst typical of the time period, his response shows the vulnerability of men when events are somewhat out of their control. The character of Sylvia was also quite interesting as she never appears to be completely at the whim of Alexander, showing a strength of character that was refreshing. Overall, an entertaining read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 16, 2020
The Creeping Of Time�
Sylvia💃💋 is a woman of society, but she never married, not yet, at least. She is Twenty-six and has a fascination with a certain rougish Marquess of Wharton🐺🍆�, but figures nothing will ever come from it.
Instead, she and her two cousins, also unmarried ladies, share a nice home in London near Berkley Square with servants. They live comfortably and spend their time, for a fee, trying to help young peers and wealthy gentlemen meet young women of the ton for the object of matrimony. They also coach the men on what to say and how to act.
Sylvia💃💋 is also somewhat of a card shark🃏, although the author doesn't elaborate on how she became one. This talent is how she finally gets the rake Marquess of Wharton🐺🍆�, the man of her dreams, to notice her.....
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱.
This ebook was $4.99 On Amazon at the Time of This review.
The Opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Great story! Unusual plot!
Sylvia💃💋 is a woman of society, but she never married, not yet, at least. She is Twenty-six and has a fascination with a certain rougish Marquess of Wharton🐺🍆�, but figures nothing will ever come from it.
Instead, she and her two cousins, also unmarried ladies, share a nice home in London near Berkley Square with servants. They live comfortably and spend their time, for a fee, trying to help young peers and wealthy gentlemen meet young women of the ton for the object of matrimony. They also coach the men on what to say and how to act.
Sylvia💃💋 is also somewhat of a card shark🃏, although the author doesn't elaborate on how she became one. This talent is how she finally gets the rake Marquess of Wharton🐺🍆�, the man of her dreams, to notice her.....
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱.
This ebook was $4.99 On Amazon at the Time of This review.
The Opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Great story! Unusual plot!
July 8, 2020
First, I love Heather’s writing. I have read several books and enjoyed every one of them. I thought this story was a little different than the others I have read in this series. It shows compassion and love by two different people for the same woman. Alexander loves his mother but I am sure like most men of the time, he has his own things to do and kind of sets her aside. Sylvia meets his mother and doesn’t know who she is or who is related to, just an older woman on a bench looking for companionship and they strike up a friendship. I thought the friendship was delightful and heartwarming. The relationship between Alexander and Sylvia is strained after he learns of his mother’s relationship with Sylvia since they previously had a fling. Can Alexander and Sylvia get past their differences? Pssst…yes, in case you are wondering, this is a romance, right?!? My favorite scene is at the end of the story. It will make you want to say ahhhhh. A great story by a wonderful storyteller.
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
July 14, 2020
I liked the flirtation between these characters it was fun. The Marquess of Wharton is a man who fights hard for his bachelorhood, that is until he almost lost everything that truly mattered to him. I also like that Sylvia stayed true to herself and stood by her family and her word and didn't settle for less than everything she ever wanted. After reading what the Dowager Marchioness Wharton had to go through I am so very happy I don't live in that time.
This is book 14 of the series but the first one I read. I will probably go back to read some of the other books from this series however I was not at all lost while reading this book.
This book kept me up late turning pages, I recommend this book to historical romance lovers who like their stories a little steamy.
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 14 of the series but the first one I read. I will probably go back to read some of the other books from this series however I was not at all lost while reading this book.
This book kept me up late turning pages, I recommend this book to historical romance lovers who like their stories a little steamy.
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2020
4.5 stars
Great read. I had read the start of this series ages ago and for some reason stopped following it. I think this book is a return to form of the first few books. It can be read as a standalone. Sylvia is a delightful heroine, congniscant of the fact that she's unlikely to wed means she's free to have discreet affairs. She meets the hero, Alexander, via some mutual friends and realises that he can use her skill at cards to funnel money into a friends hands. The friend appeared to be an addicted gambler. Sylvia also meets Alexanders mother in the park and helps her.
I would thoroughly recommend this story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Great read. I had read the start of this series ages ago and for some reason stopped following it. I think this book is a return to form of the first few books. It can be read as a standalone. Sylvia is a delightful heroine, congniscant of the fact that she's unlikely to wed means she's free to have discreet affairs. She meets the hero, Alexander, via some mutual friends and realises that he can use her skill at cards to funnel money into a friends hands. The friend appeared to be an addicted gambler. Sylvia also meets Alexanders mother in the park and helps her.
I would thoroughly recommend this story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 24, 2020
I have recently been introduced to Ms. Boyd 's books and have really been loving them. This story is really intriguing and encompasses a lot - the relationship between Alexander and Sylvia, the relationship between Alexander and his mother, and unbeknownst to Alexander, the relationship between Sylvia and his mother. A wonderful dynamic was portrayed between these relationships and gave the story so much more depth and complexity. The witty banter between them was also fun and humorous. This was a very enjoyable read and I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 14, 2020
Oh this is so good. The characters are fabulous. Sylvia has society fooled into thinking that she is subdued and proper, when in fact she is quite smart and daring. Alexander plays the carefree rake, but he is kind, caring and generous with his friends. The flirtation between Sylvia and Alexander is so much fun to read. She just throws him for a loop. Lizzie is a force to be reckoned with....and the sisters need a muzzle. This is a well written story where emotions run high, characters evolve and surprises occur. You will not want to put down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2020
This writer is amazing. I was hooked and kept engaged through out the whole book. It was a story line I have not read yet, sometimes they go along the same blueprint for a story and it gets old. This is great with Sylvia Hillcrest helping out in a gambling establishment. This is a fresh approach to regency. I will be looking forward to more of Heather Boyd. I will be looking to finish the series and reread this book also. Great job.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2020
Sylvia is a spinster with no plans to marry but does indulge her secret vice in the best card rooms. When she is asked to lose a large amount of money to one particular family she can’t resist. Alexander thinks Sylvia is perfect to carry out his plan but what will happen when sparks begin to fly between them? Fast-paced historical read with loads of drama suspense and steam. Great characters and an entertaining story. I liked it!
July 15, 2020
Book fourteen in the Distinguished Rogues series a well written story that kept me turning pages. This is the first book in this series that I have read and I now want to read the rest. Spinster Sylvia Hillcrest is one very strong willed woman she meets Alexander the Marquess of Wharton who needs her help with helping a friend of his. I recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2020
Alexander is a top lofty Marquess who always wants to be in control and get what he wants. All that changes when he is introduced to Sylvia Hillcrest over dinner and a game of cards. Never, ever underestimate a lady, including your own mother. I love these two ladies who manage to ignore him and get their own way. At moments funny and sad, Alexander eventually redeems himself. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
July 8, 2020
Enjoyed the story. In an attempt to help a friend in financial trouble, Alexander solicits Sylvia’s help by bankrolling her at cards with the idea she lose on purpose to his friend, without him suspecting. In celebrating a major lose of money to his friend they spend the nIght together and an attraction starts. Sylvia strikes up a friendship with an older lady and and when she finds out that she is having serious surgery, stays with her the first few days. The characters in this story are all strong willed and outspoken individuals, especially the women, which makes for a great story. There is a lot happening in this story and I would highly recommend it as a great read.
July 12, 2020
The hero, Alexander, has need of someone to help him do a good deed. The heroine, Sylvia, is on the fringes of society and her livelihood relies on remaining in their good graces. Almost too late, Alexander realizes that while neither of them planned to marry they cannot live without each other. I received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.
July 14, 2020
Entertaining and intense historical love story. Wonderful characters finding love and romance with intrigue and lots of drama. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2020
Sylvia Hillcrest is one of a trio of spinsters who coach men of the ton in the correct way to win a bride. Sylvia is also an accomplished and subtle card player, so when Alexander, Marquess of Wharton realises her skills he employs her to purposefully lose money to friends of his who are in financial trouble. They are both very attracted to each other, and become close. Alexander is busy having fun and pursuing his business interests, his mother and siblings are in the country and he is content to ignore them.
Sylvia befriends 'Lizzy' an older, elegant woman she meets in the park, and when she realises she is desperately ill and in need she promises to stay by her side. When Alexander realises that Sylvia has befriended and is nursing his mother, he is convinced that she was using her friendship with his mother to get to him, and banishes her from the house in a way which destroys her reputation and business.
The second half of the book was really good and very engaging, with Alexander learning to face up to his behaviour and rebuilding his relationship with his Mother, and getting to know and manage his annoying sisters. He also had to realise how he had affected Sylvia's life and livelihood, and how cruel and unfair he had been to her. It was great to see how the arrogant Marquess learnt to be a bit more humble, and how the women ran rings around him where it counted.
Really worth a read
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
Sylvia befriends 'Lizzy' an older, elegant woman she meets in the park, and when she realises she is desperately ill and in need she promises to stay by her side. When Alexander realises that Sylvia has befriended and is nursing his mother, he is convinced that she was using her friendship with his mother to get to him, and banishes her from the house in a way which destroys her reputation and business.
The second half of the book was really good and very engaging, with Alexander learning to face up to his behaviour and rebuilding his relationship with his Mother, and getting to know and manage his annoying sisters. He also had to realise how he had affected Sylvia's life and livelihood, and how cruel and unfair he had been to her. It was great to see how the arrogant Marquess learnt to be a bit more humble, and how the women ran rings around him where it counted.
Really worth a read
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
Read
July 7, 2020My next Distinguished Rogues is out next Tuesday so I thought I'd share an excerpt...
---
“That is,� Alexander said, searching for the right word, “extraordinary?�
Carmichael laughed. “Surprising, isn’t she?�
“Quite.� Alexander wasn’t angry to have lost to a woman. There were undoubtedly skilled card players of either sex in the world, and he had played against the very best and lost before. However, Alexander had seriously misjudged his opponent. He shifted in his chair and studied the deceptively benign figure more closely.
Sylvia Hillcrest looked like the dullest wallflower in existence, but when she picked up the deck, her fingers were nimble as she shuffled the cards to and fro, preparing for the next game to start. The best card players tended to have a bit of flare about them, but this woman had none.
And then she met his gaze…and allowed him to see through her little disguise for a brief moment.
She was amused by his confusion. She had expected to beat him.
---
Don't forget to add Desire by Design to your reading list.
---
“That is,� Alexander said, searching for the right word, “extraordinary?�
Carmichael laughed. “Surprising, isn’t she?�
“Quite.� Alexander wasn’t angry to have lost to a woman. There were undoubtedly skilled card players of either sex in the world, and he had played against the very best and lost before. However, Alexander had seriously misjudged his opponent. He shifted in his chair and studied the deceptively benign figure more closely.
Sylvia Hillcrest looked like the dullest wallflower in existence, but when she picked up the deck, her fingers were nimble as she shuffled the cards to and fro, preparing for the next game to start. The best card players tended to have a bit of flare about them, but this woman had none.
And then she met his gaze…and allowed him to see through her little disguise for a brief moment.
She was amused by his confusion. She had expected to beat him.
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May 14, 2021
my personal markers for a great read...1. smart and engaging writing, 2. Humorous, 3. sexy interactions 4. stories with family/friends 5. badass woman 6. will reread the book/series yearly.
2.5/5 romance along with hotness and steam
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
(4 stars rating has all the above)
(5 stars rating has HIT all the markers by 🤯...that good)
2.5/5 romance along with hotness and steam
—ĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔĔ�
(4 stars rating has all the above)
(5 stars rating has HIT all the markers by 🤯...that good)
September 14, 2021
I am really enjoying this series of books. I love how the characters in each book are intertwined. This book I really really liked. It is a bit horrifying but it does make one wonder how were medical things were diagnosed and taken care of. I can't imagine to have to endure any surgery back then. Great book!
June 28, 2023
oooh, this was a love story just how I like them. With a hero who really understands where he went wrong and takes pains to do better. With a heroine who is witty and strong and independent but finds out live can be even better if you share it. And a plot that pitches them against each other and then draws them together and I just enjoyed every minute of it!
July 18, 2020
Enjoyed the book but would have loved to have learnt more about Sylvia. I felt something was missed. I liked the relationship between Sylvia and her cousins and also Lizzy.
September 15, 2020
This was a great story. The chemistry between the characters is off the charts. I love that Sylvia is a more modern woman in historical times.
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