3.36 AVERAGE

fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
the_queen_katz's profile picture

the_queen_katz's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

DNF @ 26%

I just didn’t like the characters - so could not be bothered to finish this book
judythedreamer's profile picture

judythedreamer's review

1.0
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
elleyotter's profile picture

elleyotter's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

How is this book getting such good reviews? As something of a regency romance addict and a lover of the movie While You Were Sleeping, I was really looking forward to this book. I hadn't read anything by Sophie Jordan before, and after this you'd better believe I won't be picking up any more of her books either. It was just painful to read, and I honestly think I've read fan-fiction that was more well written. When the male lead said "shagging" (around page 30) is when I gave up and threw this is my "too terrible to finish" pile.

This was okay… pretty enjoyable. Never really connected with the main characters and the happily ever after felt a bit rushed.
adventurous lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Loveable characters: Yes

This book was drama with a capital D! What a bold lie for Poppy to keep up. I was stressed about her being found out the entire time. Her fascination with the Duke of Autenberry was fine, but I wasn’t totally convinced. When Struan showed up in the story, I was thinking “oh, THAT’S for sure Poppy’s husband”. What can I say? I love a “rough around the edges” character. I was on his team from his first appearance. I’m sure Marcus (Duke of Autenberry) has his own book, but as for right now I’m not a fan of him at all. I look forward to the rest of this series! I recommend this book to historical romance fans who are looking for a new series to binge. 
emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This was a fun little romp. The plot required a hefty suspension of disbelief, but for what it was, I really enjoyed it. I liked both main characters, they were interesting and I enjoyed their dynamic of grumpy and sunshine. It was cute. They also had good chemistry and I thought they had some sweet scenes together. I liked that the Duke’s family took her on completely without really questioning it, and did the same for Struan.

I wasn’t keen on the scene where Poppy’s sister, Bryony, tries to
Spoilerseduce Struan
. I know from his perspective that she had no chance, but still, it made me feel a bit uncomfortable given her age.

Also, I would have liked more resolution from that part of the plot -
Spoileras far as Poppy is concerned, whilst Bryony is a bit precocious and very beautiful (and there are some hinted misdemeanours from the past), Bryony spends most of her time sewing with their landlady. But Bryony’s dialogue suggests that she’s quite experienced with seducing men, which seemed to surprise Poppy. I thought this needed a bit more explanation as it just seemed a bit odd.
I also thought that Struan was a little bit too pushy. It was uncomfortable sometimes.

I would recommend it if you want an escapist historical romance with an opposites-attract couple.

Content Warnings:
SpoilerViolence, violence against sex workers (in past).
herasrevenge88's profile picture

herasrevenge88's review

2.5
medium-paced
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes