Reviews

Once Dishonored by Mary Jo Putney

lashawnwiltz's review

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2.0

Sigh.
This was awful.
I riled my eyes several times. Which really disappointed me because I love this author.

This series has been hit or miss. The next one looks better... maybe

welkinvault's review

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adventurous emotional informative lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

mropp94's review

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4.0

How can anyone not fall in love with Lucas, he is so kind and tender hearted. Kayla is brave and strong survivor. I really adored the path to their HEA.

Trigger Warnings -
This book deals with domestic violence and well as loss of a child. This author handled those situations very well in my opinion. At one point, there is a revelation, and a selfless decision was made that I whole heartedly agreed with and support. If the alternative choice had been made, I would have stopped reading not only this book but this author. Bravo Ms. Putney taking on such challenges and doing them exceptionally well.

onebookmore's review

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4.0

The fifth book in the Rogues Redeemed series, Once Dishonored is a story of redemption. Lucas has returned to London after years away. Struggling with a tarnished reputation, Lucas immediately connects to Kyla Douglas, a recently divorced woman whose reputation is even more sullied than Lucas’. When Lucas learns that the cause of her dishonor is her greedy and vicious ex-husband, he determines to help this vulnerable woman regain her reputation, her child, and her life. Will Lucas and Kyla restore their reputations and find a way to be together?

I love the romance in this story! Lucas and Kyla are characters that have gone through so much in their lives, and both struggle to find themselves in a judgmental and rigid society. Shunned and judged by others, Lucas and Kyla feel a connection almost instantly. What develops is a slow-building relationship built on trust and admiration. I love that Lucas and Kyla have such respect for each other. They share their deepest shame and darkest secrets, and it only makes them grow closer to each other. They are unflinching in their resolve to help each other, and their chemistry is fantastic!

I also found it interesting that, even though they are two of the most honorable people in the story, they are disrespected and judged by less honorable people. Kyla fled an abusive relationship and is persecuted for it, and Lucas gave his life for his country and is judged harshly for escaping when he was a prisoner of war. This says a lot more about the conditional society in which they live than is does about Kyla and Lucas.

Further, it frustrated me that women had no voice and no legal rights during this time. Kyla’s husband does some terrible things to her, and there are no ramifications because Kyla has no voice. The men hold all of the power. Putney brings to light important messages about the rights of women and the oppression of women and children, which I appreciated.

Another aspect of the story that I liked was the representation of strong, independent women and forward-thinking men. Lucas and Kyla find themselves embraced by people who accept them and appreciate them. This lovely group of people not only aid Kyla in exposing her ex for the liar he is, but they also provide unwavering support and understanding.

A story laced with dynamic characters and strong messages about gender inequities, Once Dishonored is a great novel for readers who enjoy strong historical romance. Though this is the fifth book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. Thanks so much to Netgalley and Kensington Books for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
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