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Wicked Widows #2
Why Earls Fall in Love
Society often makes strange bedfellows--and even more surprising betrothals...
IS IT A REASON FOR ROMANCE?
Young widowed Georgina Mowbray is settling into her role as Lady Russell's companion quite well--until the lady's nephew Dominic, the Earl of Coniston, arrives in Bath for a visit. Georgie's always found him shallow and too smooth, and trusts him as much as she trusts most men...which is to say, not at all. But Con turns out to be more intriguing than she remembers--and completely irresistible...
OR A PROMISE OF PASSION?
Pretty, practical Georgie is nothing like the women Con usually woos--especially since she seems blind to his charms. But his elderly aunt is so fond of her that Con is determined at least to be sociable...with the occasional flirtation thrown in just for fun. But things take a serious turn when a dangerous figure from Georgie's unhappy past appears and threatens to bring her harm. Con will do whatever it takes to keep Georgie safe. And if he can show her that all men are not menaces, he might be able to keep her in his arms and never let go...
IS IT A REASON FOR ROMANCE?
Young widowed Georgina Mowbray is settling into her role as Lady Russell's companion quite well--until the lady's nephew Dominic, the Earl of Coniston, arrives in Bath for a visit. Georgie's always found him shallow and too smooth, and trusts him as much as she trusts most men...which is to say, not at all. But Con turns out to be more intriguing than she remembers--and completely irresistible...
OR A PROMISE OF PASSION?
Pretty, practical Georgie is nothing like the women Con usually woos--especially since she seems blind to his charms. But his elderly aunt is so fond of her that Con is determined at least to be sociable...with the occasional flirtation thrown in just for fun. But things take a serious turn when a dangerous figure from Georgie's unhappy past appears and threatens to bring her harm. Con will do whatever it takes to keep Georgie safe. And if he can show her that all men are not menaces, he might be able to keep her in his arms and never let go...
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 28, 2014
27 people are currently reading
1294 people want to read
About the author
Manda Collins
37 books1,564 followersManda Collins grew up on a combination of Nancy Drew books and Jane Austen novels, and her own brand of Regency romantic suspense is the result. A former academic librarian, she holds advanced degrees in English Lit and Librarianship. Her books have been favorably reviewed in Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Bookpage, and USA Today. A native of Alabama, she lives on the Gulf Coast with a very stubborn cat and more books than are strictly necessary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 23, 2015
Manda Collins is such a winner for me! I adore all her books and they are consistently very sweet and likable. Can't wait for the next one!
July 19, 2014
This is the second book in the Wicked Widows series from Manda Collins.
The series centres on sisters, Isabella and Perdita, and their friend, Georgina… all widows of abusive husbands. They share a terrible secret concerning the death of Perdita’s husband, the Duke of Ormonde, but find themselves threatened by someone who obviously knows that secret and is out for revenge. The first book, Why Dukes Say I Do , told Isabella’s story and this is Georgina’s (Georgie’s) story.
“…he has nothing more to concern himself with than the betting book or which opera dancer he’s going to bed.”
This is how Georgie sees Con at the beginning of the story. Not very flattering to a potential hero but, of course, Con gradually reveals those qualities that make a good romance hero. It’s clear that he adores his aunt, Lady Russell, and that he had helped her through a very painful time in her life. I love how protective he is towards Georgie when he learns of the potential danger she may be in; how fiercely he defends her honour when Mr. Gilloway, the investigator makes disparaging remarks about her. After hearing how Georgie suffered during her abusive marriage, he comes to fully appreciate how difficult it is for a woman, forced to obey a father or a husband without redress. He had wanted to put a stop to the abuse that Perdita had suffered but, as a duke, her husband was far too powerful for a mere earl. I liked that Con’s thoughts weren’t solely occupied with lustful thoughts of Georgie but he also ‘found her quick wit and kind heart just as alluring as her pretty face’.
Georgie had long ago mastered the art of keeping her emotions in check. It gave her the inner strength to survive the years of her abusive marriage. She also appreciated the well-ordered army life which helped form a welcome counterbalance to the volatile relationship with her husband. Understandably, she has a deep distrust of men and deters any unwelcome attention with her serious demeanour, drab clothes and severe hair styles. I like how she refuses to be intimidated by Con but eventually comes to trust him and recognises his innate sense of decency and goodness. Her fears about remarrying again are very real. She made a terrible mistake in her choice of her first husband and no longer trusts her own judgement as regards men. I love Con for understanding her fears rather than sweeping them aside.
“No one who has endured what you went through could emerge without some sense of scepticism about people around them. It would be impossible not to.”
The romance between them is witty, tender and passionate and Ms Collins manages to convey all the emotion and passion quite beautifully and without being overly explicit. I’m sharing two of my favourite moments:
And with each beat of her heart she felt the threads of their souls knitting knitting together in a fabric no amount of strife could unravel.
It was a kiss of reverence, as if she were as precious to him as a fragile treasure. And Georgie felt her eyes prick with unshed tears. How did he know that what she always wanted deep down in her innermost soul, was to feel valued like that.
I love their conversation in Lady Russell’s breakfast room the morning after they have made love. It sounds perfectly innocent but is full of naughty innuendo.
There is well-drawn supporting cast including Con’s friend, Lord Archer Lisle who is in love with Perdita but unwilling to tell her. There is some delightfully witty banter between Archer and Con. I also liked Lady Russell who treats Georgie more as a friend than an employee.
”I am an eccentric old woman who has more money than is good for her, who wishes to see her dear friend , who is also her companion, enjoy herself for a change”.
The scene where she gives Georgie a sapphire necklace to wear and reveals her tragic past is both poignant and heartrending. Later in the story, I did find it hard to believe that, given their close relationship, Lady Russell would readily accept, without any question, that Georgie would steal her jewellery.
In the theatre scene, I love how Ms Collins makes reference to her characters in the Ugly Ducklings series, when Con is pointing out some of the more notorious members of the ton to Georgie. Isabella, Trevor and Perdita also make a welcome appearance to offer their help in tracking down the person threatening Georgie.
One reviewer says that Ms Collins’s dialogue is stilted but I totally disagree and found it natural and not at all stilted. I also like how she emphasises the reality of being a wife trapped in an abusive marriage and the limitations on women in general.
There are enough red herrings so that I didn’t guess the identity of the person threatening Georgie until right before the climax. It’s evident there is a master villain at work, who has been using others in pursuit of his or her revenge. At the moment, I have no idea who this mysterious person might be and can only wait for all to be revealed in the final book.
This is a delightful, entertaining romance and I’m really looking forward to reading Perdita and Archer’s story in Why Lords Lose Their Hearts (29th July).
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 STARS
The Wicked Widows series (click on covers for more details):
A special thank you to Manda Collins for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals blog.
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
The series centres on sisters, Isabella and Perdita, and their friend, Georgina… all widows of abusive husbands. They share a terrible secret concerning the death of Perdita’s husband, the Duke of Ormonde, but find themselves threatened by someone who obviously knows that secret and is out for revenge. The first book, Why Dukes Say I Do , told Isabella’s story and this is Georgina’s (Georgie’s) story.
“…he has nothing more to concern himself with than the betting book or which opera dancer he’s going to bed.”
This is how Georgie sees Con at the beginning of the story. Not very flattering to a potential hero but, of course, Con gradually reveals those qualities that make a good romance hero. It’s clear that he adores his aunt, Lady Russell, and that he had helped her through a very painful time in her life. I love how protective he is towards Georgie when he learns of the potential danger she may be in; how fiercely he defends her honour when Mr. Gilloway, the investigator makes disparaging remarks about her. After hearing how Georgie suffered during her abusive marriage, he comes to fully appreciate how difficult it is for a woman, forced to obey a father or a husband without redress. He had wanted to put a stop to the abuse that Perdita had suffered but, as a duke, her husband was far too powerful for a mere earl. I liked that Con’s thoughts weren’t solely occupied with lustful thoughts of Georgie but he also ‘found her quick wit and kind heart just as alluring as her pretty face’.
Georgie had long ago mastered the art of keeping her emotions in check. It gave her the inner strength to survive the years of her abusive marriage. She also appreciated the well-ordered army life which helped form a welcome counterbalance to the volatile relationship with her husband. Understandably, she has a deep distrust of men and deters any unwelcome attention with her serious demeanour, drab clothes and severe hair styles. I like how she refuses to be intimidated by Con but eventually comes to trust him and recognises his innate sense of decency and goodness. Her fears about remarrying again are very real. She made a terrible mistake in her choice of her first husband and no longer trusts her own judgement as regards men. I love Con for understanding her fears rather than sweeping them aside.
“No one who has endured what you went through could emerge without some sense of scepticism about people around them. It would be impossible not to.”
The romance between them is witty, tender and passionate and Ms Collins manages to convey all the emotion and passion quite beautifully and without being overly explicit. I’m sharing two of my favourite moments:
And with each beat of her heart she felt the threads of their souls knitting knitting together in a fabric no amount of strife could unravel.
It was a kiss of reverence, as if she were as precious to him as a fragile treasure. And Georgie felt her eyes prick with unshed tears. How did he know that what she always wanted deep down in her innermost soul, was to feel valued like that.
I love their conversation in Lady Russell’s breakfast room the morning after they have made love. It sounds perfectly innocent but is full of naughty innuendo.
There is well-drawn supporting cast including Con’s friend, Lord Archer Lisle who is in love with Perdita but unwilling to tell her. There is some delightfully witty banter between Archer and Con. I also liked Lady Russell who treats Georgie more as a friend than an employee.
”I am an eccentric old woman who has more money than is good for her, who wishes to see her dear friend , who is also her companion, enjoy herself for a change”.
The scene where she gives Georgie a sapphire necklace to wear and reveals her tragic past is both poignant and heartrending. Later in the story, I did find it hard to believe that, given their close relationship, Lady Russell would readily accept, without any question, that Georgie would steal her jewellery.
In the theatre scene, I love how Ms Collins makes reference to her characters in the Ugly Ducklings series, when Con is pointing out some of the more notorious members of the ton to Georgie. Isabella, Trevor and Perdita also make a welcome appearance to offer their help in tracking down the person threatening Georgie.
One reviewer says that Ms Collins’s dialogue is stilted but I totally disagree and found it natural and not at all stilted. I also like how she emphasises the reality of being a wife trapped in an abusive marriage and the limitations on women in general.
There are enough red herrings so that I didn’t guess the identity of the person threatening Georgie until right before the climax. It’s evident there is a master villain at work, who has been using others in pursuit of his or her revenge. At the moment, I have no idea who this mysterious person might be and can only wait for all to be revealed in the final book.
This is a delightful, entertaining romance and I’m really looking forward to reading Perdita and Archer’s story in Why Lords Lose Their Hearts (29th July).
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 STARS
The Wicked Widows series (click on covers for more details):
A special thank you to Manda Collins for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals blog.
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
September 16, 2020
I listened to this audiobook mainly for some background noise while I worked.
There's an overarching enemy so I think it's best to read/listen the books in order. I didn't have a hard time following along, but I think it would have been beneficial to read the first book in the series first. I don't think I'll continue this series. The author's writing isn't bad. This book tends to focus more on the mystery of the villain than the romance, and if the other two books are similar, then I have no interest in reading them.
There's an overarching enemy so I think it's best to read/listen the books in order. I didn't have a hard time following along, but I think it would have been beneficial to read the first book in the series first. I don't think I'll continue this series. The author's writing isn't bad. This book tends to focus more on the mystery of the villain than the romance, and if the other two books are similar, then I have no interest in reading them.
Read
August 22, 2020Recentemente estreei-me com a autora com o primeiro volume da série “Planos Perversos”. Tive uma agradável surpresa com “A origem do amor” e posso garantir que essa experiência repetiu-se.
No presente caso gostei, especialmente (uma vez mais), do facto de a protagonista ser uma mulher com experiência de vida e com bagagem emocional, ao invés de uma jovem inocente da sociedade.
Georgina é viúva de um homem violento, portanto não tem ilusões sobre a vida. Senti empatia por esta personagem que representa uma jovem mulher que tem que trabalhar para se sustentar mas que, apesar de tudo, continua a lutar para ser feliz e se sentir realizada numa Sociedade de aparências e Títulos. É na posição de Dama de Companhia de Lady Russell que conhece Dominic, Conde de Coniston e sobrinho desta. Dominic é o típico mulherengo que acaba por demonstrar ser algo mais do que apenas aquilo que a sua reputação transmite.
Inesperadamente para Georgina, quando é ameaçada por alguém do seu passado que procura vingança, é Dominic que se disponibiliza a protegê-la.
“A razão do coração” segue um molde muito semelhante ao livro anterior, visto haver um fio condutor entre as várias histórias e personagens. Tal facto agradou-me, por ter sido uma “fórmula” que resultou comigo na minha primeira experiência de leitura de um livro de Manda Collins. Apesar de todo este enredo não assentar em nenhuma premissa totalmente inovadora, gosto da forma como a autora nos apresenta os seus personagens, descreve os acontecimentos e desenvolve a acção. Uma vez mais, tive uma agradável experiência de leitura que me proporcionou umas horas bem passadas, me fazendo abstrair da realidade que me rodeia.
Aguardo com expectativa (e esperança!) que o terceiro volume da série seja publicado em Portugal, para continuar a acompanhar a história deste grupo de amigas.
Lido: 09/08/20
No presente caso gostei, especialmente (uma vez mais), do facto de a protagonista ser uma mulher com experiência de vida e com bagagem emocional, ao invés de uma jovem inocente da sociedade.
Georgina é viúva de um homem violento, portanto não tem ilusões sobre a vida. Senti empatia por esta personagem que representa uma jovem mulher que tem que trabalhar para se sustentar mas que, apesar de tudo, continua a lutar para ser feliz e se sentir realizada numa Sociedade de aparências e Títulos. É na posição de Dama de Companhia de Lady Russell que conhece Dominic, Conde de Coniston e sobrinho desta. Dominic é o típico mulherengo que acaba por demonstrar ser algo mais do que apenas aquilo que a sua reputação transmite.
Inesperadamente para Georgina, quando é ameaçada por alguém do seu passado que procura vingança, é Dominic que se disponibiliza a protegê-la.
“A razão do coração” segue um molde muito semelhante ao livro anterior, visto haver um fio condutor entre as várias histórias e personagens. Tal facto agradou-me, por ter sido uma “fórmula” que resultou comigo na minha primeira experiência de leitura de um livro de Manda Collins. Apesar de todo este enredo não assentar em nenhuma premissa totalmente inovadora, gosto da forma como a autora nos apresenta os seus personagens, descreve os acontecimentos e desenvolve a acção. Uma vez mais, tive uma agradável experiência de leitura que me proporcionou umas horas bem passadas, me fazendo abstrair da realidade que me rodeia.
Aguardo com expectativa (e esperança!) que o terceiro volume da série seja publicado em Portugal, para continuar a acompanhar a história deste grupo de amigas.
Lido: 09/08/20
December 13, 2015
wow, I liked this one even better than the first.
the characters here were a delight and I loved how their relationship developed. I loved that both had their insecurities but nevertheless were willing to work through it.
the mystery was quite nicely done and kept me on my toes.
this could have been a 5 stars read but I have to take half a star off because of the ending. it is rather disappointing that Mrs. collins is so short here.
it left me totally unsatisfied as I thought it was a rather short and undeserving conclusion of a sweet love story.
the characters here were a delight and I loved how their relationship developed. I loved that both had their insecurities but nevertheless were willing to work through it.
the mystery was quite nicely done and kept me on my toes.
this could have been a 5 stars read but I have to take half a star off because of the ending. it is rather disappointing that Mrs. collins is so short here.
it left me totally unsatisfied as I thought it was a rather short and undeserving conclusion of a sweet love story.
October 18, 2014
Manda Collins
Isabella, Perdita and Georgina were all in the room when Perdita's hubby, the cruel and evil Duke of Ormond, was shot and stabbed to death and, now over a year later, a evil unknown nemesis wants REVENGE for the Duke's untimely death!
Mrs. Georgina, Georgie, Mowbray married an Army man and, like her mother, followed her hubby from post to post. But unlike her mother, her hubby used cruel words, huge fists, belt, boots or anything handy, to abuse her with. Now that he is dead, she is a paid companion because he, like in a they married life, left her to make her own way, with a small widow's pension. Georgie is likely to have her dear friends, Perdita and Isabella, and to have a warm and caring Lady Russell as an employer. Now if only she could figure out who is threatening her with the notes, she could enjoy her time in Bath with Lady Russell on her B-day house party!
Dominic, or Con to his many friends, is the Earl of Coniston and beloved nephew of Lady Russell. She practically raised him, after his parents death. Since the day he entered his Aunt's home, as a child, she treated him like her own child. He learned about honor from his Aunt's inner strength and about love from her big warm heart. Perdita just broke thier unannounced betrothal and Con thinks she is secretly in love with Lord Archer, so Con is on his way to his dear Aunt Russell B-day bash in Bath.
The Callows clan converge to Bath because of Aunt Russell's B-day bash, but really they want her to remember them in her will. Only Con is there because of his dear love and respect for the old girl. Georgie has never been comfy with Lords, Ladies, Earls and the other gentry, except her two Duchesses friends. She knows Lord Coniston because he was courting Perdita, but she tries to stay away because he is to yummy. Con doesn't understand why the beautiful Georgina wears such hideous gowns and makes herself uncomfortable with the ugly hairstyles. With a B-day bash there is young and old, so there is boredom for the younger people. Con and Georgie are volunteered to be the chaperones for a day at the famous ruins for the next day. Later that night, as Georgie is up in her room, she looks down in the garden and sees her DEAD hubby and SCREAMS!
Con doesn't believe that strong Georgie would scream about a mouse and plus she can't lie at all. The next morning she tries to get Lady Russell to let her stay, but she strikes out. At the ruins, Con and her climb to the top of it and as they are up there, Georgie confesses about her dead hubby in the garden. Con believes her and when they both look down there is the same man, again. They take off after him, but when the go down all the stairs, he is gone. So now there is trouble afoot and the unknown nemesis is going after her, but Con will do all he can to protect the blonde, luscious and beautiful Georgina. Con keeps kisses her until her toes curl and she keeps going back, until his arms, for more. Of course, when you have BFF like Perdita, she shows up to help and with her comes Lord Archer, who is Con friend and soundboard, and all 4 band together to find the unseen foe. This house parties is a laugh a minute with picnics with a dead hubby, several old Army friends of Georgie, Lord Archer loving following Perdita, Perdita fighting to NOT notice Archer, Georgie's delicious lips and kisses, a murderer lurking about, a lending library, Con's soft caresses, family mischief, greed and jealous aplenty and not mention the new Duke and Duchess of Ormond popping in for a chat! Will Con show Georgie that his love can heal? Can Georgie raise above her own fear, and embracing his love? Will Con and Georgina's love protected them both? How will the unseen foe strike next? When will Lord Archer, man up, grab Perdita and kiss her toes off?
This the 2nd book of the Wicked Widows series and I enjoyed more than the first one. Manda Collins didn't just write a fabulous romance, she threw a HOUSE PARTY people, with kooky, original and bickering family members, because what would a house party be without it. When I say PITA, I mean "Pain In The A$$" and there was a house full of them with too young and spoiled Lydia, Tina with her horse's tales, greedy Clara and Lady Russell who rocked, with her warn heart, made this story different, from page to page. Ms. Collins tackled a huge issue again with abuse, which ties these 3 ladies together and made them BFFs. Georgie was different because she was abused, but she was an Army wife, and unless you personal been one, then all the decisions and problems are ALWAYS on her shoulders, while he hubby was away fighting. She has independence, but he slapped, punched and kicked it away, when DID come home. Con was a breath of fresh air for a hero, not a rake or rogue, but a man with fierce honor, that is ingrained in him. When he did make love to Georgina, he worshipped her from the tip of her toes to the top of her head. I believe that he washed away her evil abuser from her, with each caress and kiss. Ms. Collins created Con to heal Georgie with love, and show her that not all men are cruel and I FELL IN LOVED with him! Ms. Collins made me cry, and people I cry UGLY and then scare my furry reading buddy, Simba, and he has CLAWS, so blood and tears! She also had me on the edge of my couch, with the mysterious and STILL unseen nemesis and left me with a CLIFFHANGER! So to recap, y'all will smile, giggle, kick and sometimes slap Con's clan members, laugh, try to figure out a mystery, feel hot and bothered and fall in love this the Bath B-day Bash. I must give Ms. Collins my top score of 5 fingers up and 10 toes. Don't be jealous, but I have ARC of Why Lords Loses Their Hearts, and I am opening it right NOW! But it will be release July 29, 2014 and that is only 24 days!
This book brought to me via my LIBRARY!
February 28, 2018
Passado por cima da escrita mais pomposa, se mesmo depois de se “entregarem à arte do amor” se tratam por “Sua Graça” ou por você, gostei do livro.
Ahhhh melhor tradução desta vez.
Ahhhhh novamente gosto muito das personagens, os homens são tão fofos, amoooooo e tb gosto muito das 3 mulheres... 😊😊😊😊
Ahhhh melhor tradução desta vez.
Ahhhhh novamente gosto muito das personagens, os homens são tão fofos, amoooooo e tb gosto muito das 3 mulheres... 😊😊😊😊
February 2, 2014
The widowed Mrs Georgina Mowbray is finding life as a ladies companion far preferable than the life she ever had as a wife to her brutish and new deceased husband. There are only two things disturbing her new life, one being the Earl of Coniston, Con, who is far to handsome and charming by far and seems determined to befriend her and two a dark secret that only she and her two closest friends are privy to. But Georgie and friends secret may not quite be as secret as they thought as they all get a disturbing note and Georgie starts seeing her supposedly dead husband watching her; it maybe the only person she can turn to for help is Con…
I really enjoyed Why Dukes Say I Do, the first book in this series and was excited to be reading this, the second book. And, although this book didn’t light my world on fire, I did enjoy it, the romance was sweet and gentle and I can’t wait to find out who is the dastardly person trying to kill off Georgie and her friends.
I think I would have liked this book more if the romance between Georgie and Con had a little more passion and spark behind it, it felt a little staid and plodding in that respect. However, they did make a really cute pair and I did like how their relationship developed from almost-friends to falling in love, as though there may not have been much sexual chemistry between them, you could still see they had a connection.
What I like most about this series though, is the mysterious figure behind all the plots to murder Georgie and her friends, it is a great mystery and I like that I don’t know who is behind it all, it makes me excited to read the next and I believe final book in this series. What also has me looking forward to the next book is seeing what happens next between Archer and Perdita, the start of their relationship has been set up really well and I can’t wait to read them hooking up.
I enjoyed this book, it had a really nice romance, which although may not knock your socks off was still lovely to read, this was another good book by Manda Collins.
*ARC provided by publisher
February 7, 2014
WHY EARLS FALL IN LOVE by Manda Collins is an exciting Regency Historical Romance. #2 in the "Wicked Widows" trilogy, but can be read as a stand alone. See, "Why Dukes Say I Do". Fast paced filled with deception, passion,danger and love.
Meet Georgina Mowbray and Dominic, the Earl of Coniston, Lady Russell's nephew. Georgina is Lady Russell's companion as well as one of the Wicked Widow's.
A delightful tale of finding love, trust,acceptance and the power of love. You must check out Manda Collins' latest release "Why Earls Fall in Love" you will not regret your choice.
I can't wait for the next installment to find out who is determined to destroy Georgina, Isabella, and Perdita, the three wicked widows. Oh did I mention a little side story in the mix?
Ms. Collins a wonderful storyteller, who draws the reader into her stories with her engaging, realistic, and believable characters and her intriguing and intereswting storyline. All of the Wicked Widows have been abused by their late spouses and are looking for love and acceptance, but they also meet with a bit of danger along the way. For someone is not to destroy them all. Excellent, simply excellent!! A powerful as well as intriguing story. A must read!! Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Meet Georgina Mowbray and Dominic, the Earl of Coniston, Lady Russell's nephew. Georgina is Lady Russell's companion as well as one of the Wicked Widow's.
A delightful tale of finding love, trust,acceptance and the power of love. You must check out Manda Collins' latest release "Why Earls Fall in Love" you will not regret your choice.
I can't wait for the next installment to find out who is determined to destroy Georgina, Isabella, and Perdita, the three wicked widows. Oh did I mention a little side story in the mix?
Ms. Collins a wonderful storyteller, who draws the reader into her stories with her engaging, realistic, and believable characters and her intriguing and intereswting storyline. All of the Wicked Widows have been abused by their late spouses and are looking for love and acceptance, but they also meet with a bit of danger along the way. For someone is not to destroy them all. Excellent, simply excellent!! A powerful as well as intriguing story. A must read!! Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
March 19, 2014
Rather than to point out outstanding elements from this novel, it is fairer to say that this story runs like well-oiled clockwork, every plot, character development in perfect harmony, executed flawlessly.
Full review to come...(eventually)
Full review to come...(eventually)
June 7, 2014
I won this book from St. Martin's Press through GoodReads, first-reads giveaway. Thank you.
What a Beautiful Cover. A really enjoyable, well-written, exciting, fast read. With a diverse cast of characters plus the story as presented kept me reading and guessing to the very end and beyond.
What a Beautiful Cover. A really enjoyable, well-written, exciting, fast read. With a diverse cast of characters plus the story as presented kept me reading and guessing to the very end and beyond.
March 27, 2019
Gostei deste um bocadinho mais que do primeiro.
February 14, 2024
Great 3 part series.
February 25, 2014
Collins, who promises her readers “romance spiced with mystery,” has upped the stakes and the tension of the mystery element in Why Earls Fall in Love, and she manages to do so without sacrificing the centrality of the romance. In Georgina and Con, Collins creates likeable protagonists whose choices preserve the integrity of their characters. Georgina grew up with her father away with his military duties much of the time, a pattern that was repeated with her husband. She is accustomed to making decisions unaided, to taking action when necessary, and to taking care of herself. This is the character the reader encounters the evening of the duke’s death, and her character remains consistent through both novels. Even as she takes comfort in Con’s care for her, she insists on her autonomy. I can’t say much about the denouement without including spoilers, so I’ll just say that I was elated that Georgie stayed true to herself all the way.
Con is a charmer, not in the pejorative sense of a shallow person who uses his personal attractiveness to use and manipulate people but in the sense of a person blessed with qualities that effortlessly win the liking and admiration of others. His charm plus his wealth and social position have made him a man conditioned to being in control. Because he is a man of compassion and honesty, his control is benevolent. But it is not easy for him to accept Georgie’s right to make decisions even when he feels they endanger her. The tension that exists between his belief that he knows best and his respect for Georgie as an independent spirit not only made him more real to me but also allowed me to believe fully in his declaration of love for a woman very different from him in social status and in personality.
Sometimes suspending disbelief for the course of a novel is more than I can do, but I found it easy to enter fully into the world of this book. I believed in Georgie and Con as individuals, and I believed in them as a couple who could build a happy life together. I also believed that the threat to Georgie was real, and the killer’s identity caught me by surprise. So did the number of victims.
I loved the big things about this book—characters in whom I was invested, a plot that kept me turning pages (and buying into the red herrings), historical accuracy in setting, action, and the role of women, and an authorial voice in which I delighted. I also loved the little things—Con’s bad art, the nod to the Ugly Ducklings from Collins’s first series, and the affection and loyalty between Georgie and Perdita, and Isabella. I’ve been falling in love with Manda Collins’s stories since before she was published, and I think this one may be her best yet. I highly recommend it.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
Con is a charmer, not in the pejorative sense of a shallow person who uses his personal attractiveness to use and manipulate people but in the sense of a person blessed with qualities that effortlessly win the liking and admiration of others. His charm plus his wealth and social position have made him a man conditioned to being in control. Because he is a man of compassion and honesty, his control is benevolent. But it is not easy for him to accept Georgie’s right to make decisions even when he feels they endanger her. The tension that exists between his belief that he knows best and his respect for Georgie as an independent spirit not only made him more real to me but also allowed me to believe fully in his declaration of love for a woman very different from him in social status and in personality.
Sometimes suspending disbelief for the course of a novel is more than I can do, but I found it easy to enter fully into the world of this book. I believed in Georgie and Con as individuals, and I believed in them as a couple who could build a happy life together. I also believed that the threat to Georgie was real, and the killer’s identity caught me by surprise. So did the number of victims.
I loved the big things about this book—characters in whom I was invested, a plot that kept me turning pages (and buying into the red herrings), historical accuracy in setting, action, and the role of women, and an authorial voice in which I delighted. I also loved the little things—Con’s bad art, the nod to the Ugly Ducklings from Collins’s first series, and the affection and loyalty between Georgie and Perdita, and Isabella. I’ve been falling in love with Manda Collins’s stories since before she was published, and I think this one may be her best yet. I highly recommend it.
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
See full review at Just Janga:
http://justjanga.blogspot.com/2014/01...
March 3, 2014
Manda Collins is back with Why Earls Fall in Love, the sequel to Why Dukes Say I Do, the first book in her Wicked Widows series. When I saw that Manda had a new book out, I immediately had to get it. I didn't realize until today out of her eight novels, I've already read five, and I'm pretty sure that number will still increase with her other future releases.
I enjoyed the first book so much and liked the romantic, albeit a bit predictable, pairings that I did not hesitate to read Why Earls Fall in Love. However, this time, I didn't fall for Con or even particularly liked the heroine. Instead, I liked the story and think it's a good addition to the whole Wicked Widows series, and I am so psyched to read the real culprit behind the mayhem in the three ladies' lives!
The Earl of Coniston is an alpha to the bone, and I like that he knew what he wanted and that he didn't try to run from his feelings. However, he didn't appeal to me as much as Trevor did in the first book; Con sounded too glib for my taste. But I like that he trusted Georgina even against his family, and that he was all hell-bent on protecting her. I believe I'm capable of protecting myself (or running away from danger!) but it was nice to escape in a book where the man was a man who fought for his woman. Ooops, my romantic little heart is showing.
Georgina was a morose widow who was tightly controlled. By the end of the book, it is not known whether she has become more relaxed as a person. Now that I think about it, there wasn't really much character development between the two of them because they were too busy dealing with the man/woman who has been terrorizing her.
I find that, inevitably, there's always that one book in a series that is a good addition to the series as a whole but is not as amazing as the others. Why Earls Fall in Love was that for me. It did, however, spark my interest in historical romance again and in the Wicked Widows series. I am so excited for the last book, dealing with the delicious tension between Perdita and Archer, whose groundwork for romance has been laid out in this second book. Also, I am bursting with curiosity to discover who they're really dealing with!
Have you been reading the Wicked Widows series? :)
I enjoyed the first book so much and liked the romantic, albeit a bit predictable, pairings that I did not hesitate to read Why Earls Fall in Love. However, this time, I didn't fall for Con or even particularly liked the heroine. Instead, I liked the story and think it's a good addition to the whole Wicked Widows series, and I am so psyched to read the real culprit behind the mayhem in the three ladies' lives!
The Earl of Coniston is an alpha to the bone, and I like that he knew what he wanted and that he didn't try to run from his feelings. However, he didn't appeal to me as much as Trevor did in the first book; Con sounded too glib for my taste. But I like that he trusted Georgina even against his family, and that he was all hell-bent on protecting her. I believe I'm capable of protecting myself (or running away from danger!) but it was nice to escape in a book where the man was a man who fought for his woman. Ooops, my romantic little heart is showing.
Georgina was a morose widow who was tightly controlled. By the end of the book, it is not known whether she has become more relaxed as a person. Now that I think about it, there wasn't really much character development between the two of them because they were too busy dealing with the man/woman who has been terrorizing her.
I find that, inevitably, there's always that one book in a series that is a good addition to the series as a whole but is not as amazing as the others. Why Earls Fall in Love was that for me. It did, however, spark my interest in historical romance again and in the Wicked Widows series. I am so excited for the last book, dealing with the delicious tension between Perdita and Archer, whose groundwork for romance has been laid out in this second book. Also, I am bursting with curiosity to discover who they're really dealing with!
Have you been reading the Wicked Widows series? :)
September 19, 2014
Manda Collins is a polished author who writes well. The plot of this book, as well as the first book in this trilogy, was very well done. Collins definitely kept my interest in the mystery, and I look forward to its conclusion in the third book. I also liked the characters of both Con and Georgina, the hero and heroine. They were engaging and interesting, and their romance was believable. Further, this whole series shines a light on the plight of abused women. Women in regency England (as well as probably almost everywhere else at that time) had no rights, and were considered their husbands' property. Therefore, battered women had no recourse whatsoever, even if they came from the highest level of society. In fact, in most cases, if a battered woman turned to her family for protection, they would usually return her to her abusive husband. The author described this horrible situation really well, and I commend her for it.
However, I couldn't give this well-written book more than 3 stars because it was loaded with situations that were anachronistic for the time. Here's an example:
Georgina is a paid companion to Con's aunt, Lady Russell. Lady Russell is a kind employer, is fond of Georgina, and treats her well. She gives Georgina a certain amount of license to speak her mind freely. Lady Russell has a large house party where all her relatives gather. Georgina speaks to Lady Russell's family members as equals, and in an egalitarian way that is far more 20th-21st Century than regency England. Despite the kindness of Georgina's employer, I doubt that either she or her family would tolerate such familiarity from one considered an upper servant on par with a governess.
Also, there were a number of anachronistic expressions used that are clearly contemporary - and American - and were not around in regency England.
While I like a lot of history entwined with my romance, I don't mind a more wall paper type of book as long as it has an authentic feel concerning the social customs and mores of the time period. If it doesn't, no matter how skilled the author, I am totally yanked out of that time period. It's like an alarm going off while I'm dreaming. I will always remove at least one star (if not more) for that.
However, I couldn't give this well-written book more than 3 stars because it was loaded with situations that were anachronistic for the time. Here's an example:
Georgina is a paid companion to Con's aunt, Lady Russell. Lady Russell is a kind employer, is fond of Georgina, and treats her well. She gives Georgina a certain amount of license to speak her mind freely. Lady Russell has a large house party where all her relatives gather. Georgina speaks to Lady Russell's family members as equals, and in an egalitarian way that is far more 20th-21st Century than regency England. Despite the kindness of Georgina's employer, I doubt that either she or her family would tolerate such familiarity from one considered an upper servant on par with a governess.
Also, there were a number of anachronistic expressions used that are clearly contemporary - and American - and were not around in regency England.
While I like a lot of history entwined with my romance, I don't mind a more wall paper type of book as long as it has an authentic feel concerning the social customs and mores of the time period. If it doesn't, no matter how skilled the author, I am totally yanked out of that time period. It's like an alarm going off while I'm dreaming. I will always remove at least one star (if not more) for that.
January 6, 2016
Love a good Historical...
This was a great installment in the series. I am a huge fan of Manda Collins style of writing. She comes across as intelligent and thorough in her research into the lives of people in previous times. In this series we are taught about women's rights in her household, especially when abuse is involved. Women were unable to fight back or even complain if there husbands were abusive and if they tried to leave, they were brought back to their owner...the husband.
This story revolved around Georgie and Con. They were first introduced when Lord Con was betrothed to Georgie's good friend Perdita. When Perdita called off the betrothal Con was relieved as he had learnt the he had feelings for Georgie. Con knew that Georgie had been badly treated by her deceased husband and wouldn't jump into a new relationship.
Georgie and Con's relationship was slow to develop. Between Georgie's reservations in regards to a new love and her dealing with threats to her livelihood, it was understandable. Once the connection had been acknowledged I was quite surprised at how quickly they hit the sheets, especially in the house of her employer who also happened to be his aunt.
A very good story that kept my interest from beginning to end. I am a fan of this author and I will definitely be reading the last in the series.
This was a great installment in the series. I am a huge fan of Manda Collins style of writing. She comes across as intelligent and thorough in her research into the lives of people in previous times. In this series we are taught about women's rights in her household, especially when abuse is involved. Women were unable to fight back or even complain if there husbands were abusive and if they tried to leave, they were brought back to their owner...the husband.
This story revolved around Georgie and Con. They were first introduced when Lord Con was betrothed to Georgie's good friend Perdita. When Perdita called off the betrothal Con was relieved as he had learnt the he had feelings for Georgie. Con knew that Georgie had been badly treated by her deceased husband and wouldn't jump into a new relationship.
Georgie and Con's relationship was slow to develop. Between Georgie's reservations in regards to a new love and her dealing with threats to her livelihood, it was understandable. Once the connection had been acknowledged I was quite surprised at how quickly they hit the sheets, especially in the house of her employer who also happened to be his aunt.
A very good story that kept my interest from beginning to end. I am a fan of this author and I will definitely be reading the last in the series.
February 5, 2014
I enjoyed this book and it was a quick, well written read.
Con and Georgina were both good characters - but I felt like their "relationship" moved too fast. Georgie went from not liking Con and being uncomfortable around him to kissing and confiding in him within days. It didn't seem believable, considering her first marriage. And let's not forget that Con had been betrothed to Georgie's best friend. A romance between these two was improbable at worst and highly unlikely at best.
As far as the mystery is concerned, I can honestly say I am baffled - who is doing this? And more importantly why? I am dying to get to the bottom of this - this unknown villain is completely evil and wickedly clever.
I am really looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy - I love Archer! And having him in love with Perdita before the book starts is a bonus in my mind. I can't even imagine what this villain is going to do to these two!
So bottom line - the book is well written, the romance moves a bit too fast for my taste, the villain is evil and we still get a happy ending - maybe not a keeper - but definitely worth reading - especially if you read Why Dukes Say I Do
Con and Georgina were both good characters - but I felt like their "relationship" moved too fast. Georgie went from not liking Con and being uncomfortable around him to kissing and confiding in him within days. It didn't seem believable, considering her first marriage. And let's not forget that Con had been betrothed to Georgie's best friend. A romance between these two was improbable at worst and highly unlikely at best.
As far as the mystery is concerned, I can honestly say I am baffled - who is doing this? And more importantly why? I am dying to get to the bottom of this - this unknown villain is completely evil and wickedly clever.
I am really looking forward to the conclusion of this trilogy - I love Archer! And having him in love with Perdita before the book starts is a bonus in my mind. I can't even imagine what this villain is going to do to these two!
So bottom line - the book is well written, the romance moves a bit too fast for my taste, the villain is evil and we still get a happy ending - maybe not a keeper - but definitely worth reading - especially if you read Why Dukes Say I Do
March 3, 2014
For some reason, I thought that Perdita's story would come second and that Georgina's would be last, so I was surprised when I began this second Wicked Widows novel. I also should mention that wicked really is not a descriptor for these unfortunate ladies who had all been abused by their now-deceased husbands.
Again, Manda Collins has written a book that managed to hold my attention and that has me actively waiting to read the third and last story in the series, to be released later this year. For, once again, a group of "minor" culprits have set out to knowingly, or unknowingly, destroy the widow Georgina, whose husband died at Waterloo. But, alas, the true villain behind the attempts on the first two widows remains unknown.
The series also takes on the wide social distance between the aristocracy and other classes in post-Napoleonic England. In this case, can or should this distance be breached between an earl and the widow Georgina? What kinds of repercussions might she face if she should agree to marry above her class?
If you are a fan of regency romance novels, do treat yourself to this series of three books by Manda Collins.
Again, Manda Collins has written a book that managed to hold my attention and that has me actively waiting to read the third and last story in the series, to be released later this year. For, once again, a group of "minor" culprits have set out to knowingly, or unknowingly, destroy the widow Georgina, whose husband died at Waterloo. But, alas, the true villain behind the attempts on the first two widows remains unknown.
The series also takes on the wide social distance between the aristocracy and other classes in post-Napoleonic England. In this case, can or should this distance be breached between an earl and the widow Georgina? What kinds of repercussions might she face if she should agree to marry above her class?
If you are a fan of regency romance novels, do treat yourself to this series of three books by Manda Collins.
February 22, 2014
Why Earls Fall in Love is a mystery historical romance, I couldn't guess who was the villain until the end of the book. The story was engaging with romance, mystery and threat. I like the way Mrs. Collin tell the story even I have not read the first in this series I could follow the story about three friends with their secrets. I am looking forward to read the next in this series and find out who is the villain. Thank you Mrs. Collins
April 17, 2018
Murder, Mayhem and the Boundaries of Social Class
Is murder a valid reason to cross the boundary lines of class?
The Cast:
I really enjoyed the blend of duty and decorum, the lively wit and mind that made up Georgina. Her confidence in her femininity and abilities was refreshing in a story set in a time period when it was usually the men who took care of the ladies.
The supporting cast has a little bit of everybody in here:
* A couple of dashing heros (Con and Ash)
* Strong, intelligent woman (Georgina, Perdita, Isabella, Lady Russell)
* The ‘Dandy’ (Phillip)
* The ‘Spoiled Little Rich Girl’ (Lydia)
And for fun the ‘Randy Older Sisters’ (Take a peek in the drawing room on page 66 for them. You may get a bit of a shock!)
It was fun to read how each different personality interacted with the other.
My Favorite Secondary Character:
I would like to sit down and share a cuppa with Mr. Geoffrey Callow. I suspect I would learn the most amusing things about his family.
Story Flow:
Much was made of how Bath was not the place to be. Being lacking in amusements and entertainments compared to Brighton and London. But over the coarse of the story, Bath was definitely not a boring place to be.
I found the flow read very natural as the story built itself up. The only jolt I experienced was when Con first met up with Lord Ashton at the Angry Piglet tavern. It just felt like a sudden jump to a character I was supposed to know, but didn’t.
Nail Biting:
The challenge between Georgina and Con is set just before the end of Chapter 1.
“All right,” she said with a rueful smile. “But you must agree that if by the end of the week I still feel this way, then you will leave me at peace with my shyness”
Georgina, Ch. 1, pg, 30, para 2
Con, being a healthy, determined male could not resist such a challenge to steer Georgina to think better of him. The grounds were set, and you already know, that as the hero in the story he’s going to win.
I must say that Georgina has an excellent reason for her reticence, the nail biter here was in what chapter she would get over it.
HEA:
Georgie and Con had met in book 1 of this series, Why Dukes Say I Do while he was engaged, all be it briefly, to Perdita so they were not strangers to each other at the beginning of this story. However, they didn’t get to know each other very well in the first book.
They did manage to build trust and respect in one another and have the benefit of a mutual circle of friends.
I believe this match is destined for a Happily Ever After.
Swoon:
Dominic, Lord Coniston is an easy going, friendly and artistic soul. He does not simply ignore people who hold lower rank than himself, he converses with them. However, his male, upper echelon upbringing has kept him a little out of touch of the realities of being a female ‘commoner’.
His even temper and quick intellect keep him level headed during stressful situations and his natural humor makes him affable during mixed social ones.
I totally swooned over Con
Emotion Coaster:
I was caught up in the charming banter between Con and Georgina from the beginning. The prejudices they needed to overcome were set in the first book during Perdita and Con’s short lived betrothal.
I was intrigued by the experiences shared between Georgina, Lettice and Mary regarding being a wife who lived ‘following the drum’. It gave a basis of why these women think and feel about general society as they do.
I greatly admired the bonds of friendship that were strong and consistent throughout this story that carried over from the first book and I know will continue through to the third. It’s like being able to support friends through a tough time, that you have known for a while.
And what a twist at the end! That was NOT who I suspected.
Sensuality: Luke Warm
This is not a story to read if you like them steamy. The physical act is left to your imagination, but the reader is along for the ride with the inner dialogue.
The Last Drop:
Though this is the first book in the trilogy I read, it is very much a stand alone story. It’s thoughtfully plotted storyline infused with rich characterizations and building intrigue kept me up way past my bedtime to finish.
I have since read Isabella and Perdita’s stories and though the plot line that binds the three books together is referenced throughout, at no time did I feel kept out of the loop when reading this one.
I highly recommend Why Earls Fall in Love .
Is murder a valid reason to cross the boundary lines of class?
“Don’t you see, Mama?” Lydia said in a bored voice. “He’s smitten with the little companion. If it weren’t so revoltingly vulgar I’d say it was sweet.”
Lydia, Ch. 15, pg. 234, para. 3
The Cast:
I really enjoyed the blend of duty and decorum, the lively wit and mind that made up Georgina. Her confidence in her femininity and abilities was refreshing in a story set in a time period when it was usually the men who took care of the ladies.
The supporting cast has a little bit of everybody in here:
* A couple of dashing heros (Con and Ash)
* Strong, intelligent woman (Georgina, Perdita, Isabella, Lady Russell)
* The ‘Dandy’ (Phillip)
* The ‘Spoiled Little Rich Girl’ (Lydia)
And for fun the ‘Randy Older Sisters’ (Take a peek in the drawing room on page 66 for them. You may get a bit of a shock!)
It was fun to read how each different personality interacted with the other.
My Favorite Secondary Character:
I would like to sit down and share a cuppa with Mr. Geoffrey Callow. I suspect I would learn the most amusing things about his family.
“Have you got lifts in your shoes? I thought -“ He broke off as his wife, none to gently, poked him in the ribs.
Geoffrey Callow, Ch. 1, pg. 20, para. 3
Story Flow:
Much was made of how Bath was not the place to be. Being lacking in amusements and entertainments compared to Brighton and London. But over the coarse of the story, Bath was definitely not a boring place to be.
I found the flow read very natural as the story built itself up. The only jolt I experienced was when Con first met up with Lord Ashton at the Angry Piglet tavern. It just felt like a sudden jump to a character I was supposed to know, but didn’t.
Nail Biting:
The challenge between Georgina and Con is set just before the end of Chapter 1.
“All right,” she said with a rueful smile. “But you must agree that if by the end of the week I still feel this way, then you will leave me at peace with my shyness”
Georgina, Ch. 1, pg, 30, para 2
Con, being a healthy, determined male could not resist such a challenge to steer Georgina to think better of him. The grounds were set, and you already know, that as the hero in the story he’s going to win.
I must say that Georgina has an excellent reason for her reticence, the nail biter here was in what chapter she would get over it.
HEA:
Georgie and Con had met in book 1 of this series, Why Dukes Say I Do while he was engaged, all be it briefly, to Perdita so they were not strangers to each other at the beginning of this story. However, they didn’t get to know each other very well in the first book.
They did manage to build trust and respect in one another and have the benefit of a mutual circle of friends.
I believe this match is destined for a Happily Ever After.
Swoon:
Dominic, Lord Coniston is an easy going, friendly and artistic soul. He does not simply ignore people who hold lower rank than himself, he converses with them. However, his male, upper echelon upbringing has kept him a little out of touch of the realities of being a female ‘commoner’.
“Con asked, puzzled by her stance. “But surely a husband brings something to the marriage as well. A home, an estate, security. Is that not enough?”
“He brings those things only at his discretion. If he chooses, he might take them away from his wife on a whim. A wife is no more than another possession under English law.”
Con and Georgina, Ch. 13, pg. 202, para. 3 & 4
His even temper and quick intellect keep him level headed during stressful situations and his natural humor makes him affable during mixed social ones.
I totally swooned over Con
Emotion Coaster:
I was caught up in the charming banter between Con and Georgina from the beginning. The prejudices they needed to overcome were set in the first book during Perdita and Con’s short lived betrothal.
I was intrigued by the experiences shared between Georgina, Lettice and Mary regarding being a wife who lived ‘following the drum’. It gave a basis of why these women think and feel about general society as they do.
I greatly admired the bonds of friendship that were strong and consistent throughout this story that carried over from the first book and I know will continue through to the third. It’s like being able to support friends through a tough time, that you have known for a while.
And what a twist at the end! That was NOT who I suspected.
Sensuality: Luke Warm
This is not a story to read if you like them steamy. The physical act is left to your imagination, but the reader is along for the ride with the inner dialogue.
The Last Drop:
Though this is the first book in the trilogy I read, it is very much a stand alone story. It’s thoughtfully plotted storyline infused with rich characterizations and building intrigue kept me up way past my bedtime to finish.
I have since read Isabella and Perdita’s stories and though the plot line that binds the three books together is referenced throughout, at no time did I feel kept out of the loop when reading this one.
I highly recommend Why Earls Fall in Love .
February 5, 2014
Absolutely loved this 2nd in a trilogy, featuring 3 friends who share a dark secret and are being blackmailed by someone. Chemistry and conflict between the Earl and Dowager's companion sizzled. As usual, Manda Collins reigns over all other historical writers (IMO) when it comes to alpha dialogue between male friends. Just a hoot! Highly suggested read!
February 4, 2014
I loved this installment of the Wicked Widows series. I keep thinking about the characters, wanting to pick up the book and then remembering that I've already finished it. WHY EARLS FALL IN LOVE is a fabulous blend of intrigue, fun sexy times, and tender romance. Con and Georgina are perfect together. I'm anxiously awaiting book three.
January 19, 2014
I love Manda Collins's regency romances. Like the previous trilogy, the Why stories have a mystery to resolve, a love story and some good friends.
Manda's writing is light but well-crafted. The whodunnit part keeps us reading, without taking itself too seriously, and the whole book is a delight to read.
Manda's writing is light but well-crafted. The whodunnit part keeps us reading, without taking itself too seriously, and the whole book is a delight to read.
October 15, 2014
I don't think the Widows series is this author's best work. I found this book tedious and not interesting. The main characters were fairly likeable but the situations seemed forced or made little sense. I struggled to finish this.
March 5, 2014
This was a wonderful love story with a bit of mystery intertwined. A story of love overcoming status when the earl falls in love with the widow companion to his Aunt while trying to figure out who wants revenge on the widow. I could not put this down!!
February 5, 2014
Can't wait to read about Perdita
May 25, 2015
I did not care much for the whole plot but the style is absolutely superb and I find it really well built up. Thumbs up!
May 22, 2015
Book 2 and the saga continues - different widow with different suitor trying to protect her. I liked it and love when characters from previous books come back.
July 10, 2015
An amazing read. Part romance, part mystery. Very gothic feel to it.
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