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Ugly Ducklings #2
How to Romance a Rake
You can lead a wallflower to the ball, but you can’t make her bloom—unless one daring young bachelor turns up the heat…
What’s a nice girl like Miss Juliet Shelby doing at a place like Lord Deveril’s ballroom? With her shy demeanor, she’s a total stranger to the dance floor and a source of mockery for the ton. So imagine her surprise when Deveril gallantly comes to her defense—and offers to teach her to dance! Juliet can hardly believe the most handsome bachelor in London would notice her, until he takes her in his arms and sets her heart ablaze…
Lord Alec Deveril has never felt such a spark of attraction for an unmarried lady before. Unlike the “fashionable” ladies he’s accustomed to, Juliet possesses a generous spirit, a fiery intelligence—and an explosive secret. Deep in the London underworld, a dear friend has vanished, and Juliet fears the worst. Deveril insists on helping, escorting her through the darkest alleys in town. But he too is hiding a shocking secret—and the only way he can defeat the devil in his past is to seduce the angel in his arms…
What’s a nice girl like Miss Juliet Shelby doing at a place like Lord Deveril’s ballroom? With her shy demeanor, she’s a total stranger to the dance floor and a source of mockery for the ton. So imagine her surprise when Deveril gallantly comes to her defense—and offers to teach her to dance! Juliet can hardly believe the most handsome bachelor in London would notice her, until he takes her in his arms and sets her heart ablaze…
Lord Alec Deveril has never felt such a spark of attraction for an unmarried lady before. Unlike the “fashionable” ladies he’s accustomed to, Juliet possesses a generous spirit, a fiery intelligence—and an explosive secret. Deep in the London underworld, a dear friend has vanished, and Juliet fears the worst. Deveril insists on helping, escorting her through the darkest alleys in town. But he too is hiding a shocking secret—and the only way he can defeat the devil in his past is to seduce the angel in his arms…
318 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 31, 2012
About the author
Manda Collins
33 books1,480 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 164 reviews
April 11, 2017
I love reading historical romances with wallflowers, so of course I was excited to read this book. Unfortunately I was left…. underwhelmed.
For the most part I liked Juliet. She’s quiet and prefers to hide in corners rather than draw attention to herself. I can totally relate to that. I hated the way her mother treated her and the pain she endured because of the injury she sustained when she was younger. It was interesting to read about the difficulties she had faced because of this injury and how her life changed because of it. And I liked how brave she was, how she kept her good spirit despite the awful things her mother said and did to her.
Then there was Alec who was just so perfect. From his perfectly coiffed hair, to his perfectly tailored clothes, to his perfect reputation that he worked so hard on. He was just too perfect for me. Don’t get me wrong I liked him, especially how nice he was towards Juliet, but there was no real depth of character to him, no flaws that made me love or hate him.
Unfortunately the romance was missing that spark, that something that made me WANT and CRAVE them to be together. There were moments of sweetness and you could tell that they liked each other, but there was no real passion, no intense chemistry, only lukewarm affection and attraction.
The plot was interesting with Juliet’s friend going missing and then other missing women coming to light and with her mother wanting her to marry a despicable man, even willing to use force to get Juliet to marry him. And the way the people of the ton looked down on Juliet and her friends, and the truly horrible things they said to her when they found out how severe her injury really was, just appalled me. People can be horrible creatures :-(.
While this book was in no means bad, I also wasn’t wowed. However, I’m sure many readers would enjoy this sweet romance.
August 6, 2012
Review posted on Demon Lover's books and More
***Quick Note: If you read the author’s note at the beginning of the book, it may spoil something for you. But on the other hand, it will also let you know what happened to Juliet before the characters in the book know. Just an FYI for you guys.***
I found I quite enjoyed this book. Juliet Shelby hasn’t danced at a ball, she’s a self-confirmed Wallflower, and she’s even been dubbed by one of the other debutantes as one of the “Ugly Ducklings.” The “Ugly Ducklings” include Juliet, and her two cousins. Not one of the girls is ugly, of course, but that doesn’t stop the mean gossips. No one knows what happened, or why she limps, but they have no problem speculating and making rude comments.
At one particularly trying ball, Juliet tries to find a peaceful place to sit down and avoid everyone else, but the Mean Girls Ladies Amelia and Felicia are in there gossiping about her. She overhears all, is completely humiliated, and then Lord Deveril comes to her defense! She was amazed and awed that he, the perfect Lord Deveril, would come to her aid. Then he asks the unthinkable- might he teach her to dance?
Alec has spent his life fixing his family’s reputation-his father had been known as Devil Deveril, and for good reason. One of the things Alec figures he should do is find a bride. He’s been thinking of proposing to Lady Madeline (Juliet’s cousin), yet it’s Juliet who he can’t get off his mind.
After Juliet’s injury, the one thing she used to overcome the horror and trauma was her music. She plays the piano beautifully and even composes her own music (secretly of course). So when she finds out her friend and music teacher Ana has gone missing, Juliet must find out what happened.
Alec is surprisingly protective and supportive of Juliet, and one thing I really enjoyed was their romance. It was sweet, and sexy, and so wonderful. I couldn’t believe how evil Juliet’s mother was, and I was shocked at the twist at the end. The bad guy was bad all right, but man, her mom was just as bad. And her father?! He didn’t even know!!! (< ---I can’t tell you without a huge spoiler).
But the ending and action were fantastic. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
***ARC courtesy of the author and St. Martin's Press
***Quick Note: If you read the author’s note at the beginning of the book, it may spoil something for you. But on the other hand, it will also let you know what happened to Juliet before the characters in the book know. Just an FYI for you guys.***
I found I quite enjoyed this book. Juliet Shelby hasn’t danced at a ball, she’s a self-confirmed Wallflower, and she’s even been dubbed by one of the other debutantes as one of the “Ugly Ducklings.” The “Ugly Ducklings” include Juliet, and her two cousins. Not one of the girls is ugly, of course, but that doesn’t stop the mean gossips. No one knows what happened, or why she limps, but they have no problem speculating and making rude comments.
At one particularly trying ball, Juliet tries to find a peaceful place to sit down and avoid everyone else, but the Mean Girls Ladies Amelia and Felicia are in there gossiping about her. She overhears all, is completely humiliated, and then Lord Deveril comes to her defense! She was amazed and awed that he, the perfect Lord Deveril, would come to her aid. Then he asks the unthinkable- might he teach her to dance?
Alec has spent his life fixing his family’s reputation-his father had been known as Devil Deveril, and for good reason. One of the things Alec figures he should do is find a bride. He’s been thinking of proposing to Lady Madeline (Juliet’s cousin), yet it’s Juliet who he can’t get off his mind.
After Juliet’s injury, the one thing she used to overcome the horror and trauma was her music. She plays the piano beautifully and even composes her own music (secretly of course). So when she finds out her friend and music teacher Ana has gone missing, Juliet must find out what happened.
Alec is surprisingly protective and supportive of Juliet, and one thing I really enjoyed was their romance. It was sweet, and sexy, and so wonderful. I couldn’t believe how evil Juliet’s mother was, and I was shocked at the twist at the end. The bad guy was bad all right, but man, her mom was just as bad. And her father?! He didn’t even know!!! (< ---I can’t tell you without a huge spoiler).
But the ending and action were fantastic. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
***ARC courtesy of the author and St. Martin's Press
June 11, 2012
A pleasant enjoyable read for fans who enjoy the traditional Regency atmosphere teamed with nice sensual elements.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur magazine in the August issue: http://affairedecoeur.com
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur magazine in the August issue: http://affairedecoeur.com
December 11, 2022
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Cinnamon roll hero.
Disability representation.
➖ What I disliked:
Too much drama.
Too much focus on the side characters and the mystery and not enough on the romance part.
Too little interaction between the heroine and hero.
The chemistry and romantic build up was lacking.
Somewhat stilted/jumbled and verbose.
Sensitive issues are written/handled in a rather light-hearted and thoughtless way. (emotional/psychological abuse, physical abuse, abuse etc.)
Kind of misleading title.
May 29, 2013
This is the second book in Manda Collins’s Ugly Ducklings series and I was totally captivated by this sweet romance. I knew when I read her debut novel, How to Dance with a Duke, that Ms Collins was definitely a rising star in the world of Historical Romance and this book has only served to confirm that opinion.
I really admire her courage in writing a unique heroine with such a severe disability. She uses some of her own experiences to imbue Juliet’s character with realism on both an emotional and physical level. Juliet has a quiet inner strength which she calls on whenever she needs to cope with the mockery inflicted by her peers and the constant tirade from her own mother. I love how, over the course of the story, she gains in confidence and Alex sums it up perfectly.
“If you knew anything about my wife, you would know that she is entirely capable of taking care of herself."
I positively adore Alec.. He's just the sweetest, kindest, man. Rather than the rake of the title, he's just a perfect gentleman. I love how he champions Juliet and is so protective towards her. I enjoyed the set-down he gives those two harpies, Miss Amelia Snowe and Lady Felicia, when he finds them in the music room and hears their cruel remarks about Juliet, who happens to be hiding behind a screen.
"I must ask you to return to the festivities," he continued, his voice definitely cool. "This room is for family use only."
And you two are not family, his voice implied. Juliet bit back a cheer.
"We will leave at once, “Amelia said her voice thick with apology. Of course she would not wish to insult an eligible like Deveril, Juliet thought cynically.
"We apologise for the intrusion, my lord," Felicia cooed.
Juliet bit her lip to keep from laughing at the insincerity.
"There's no harm done ladies," Deveril assured them with more generosity than they deserved. "And I pray you," he added, "try not to stumble down the hall. One would hate to see the two of you make a spectacle of yourselves. This isn't a circus, you know."
Despite having the worst parents imaginable neither of them has become cynical and embittered. Each in their own way has had the strength to become a better person. Juliet is compassionate with a caring heart and Alec has striven to rebuild his reputation which was sullied by his father's notorious drinking and whoring.
The mystery surrounding the disappearance of Juliet's music teacher is the ideal way of bringing these two together. I like how their relationship develops slowly, allowing them to really get to know and understand one another. This makes their falling in love seem natural and inevitable. The scene where they consummate their marriage is both intimate and sensual but laced with lovely touches of humour. This little discussion about making love made me smile.
"We'll do it whenever we please. In very room of the house."
" Even the butler's pantry?" she asked, her breath short as she felt the press of his erection against her stomach.
"Especially," Alec said, widening her legs so that he could rest his hips between them, " especially the butler's pantry."
There's a great cast of secondary characters including Cecily and Winterson from How to Dance with a Duke, the delightful Lady Madeline with her madcap plans, Monteith with his mocking comments about Alex's sartorial elegance and, of course, Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby, whom Ms Collins refers to in an interview as "the kind who makes Mommie Dearest look like Mother of the Year." There was enough drama in the plot to keep me intrigued not to mention the unexpected twist at the end.
Now I'm waiting with impatience for Madeline and Monteith's story in the third book, How to Entice an Earl.
VERDICT: A WONDERFUL LOVE STORY WITH LOTS OF HEART
RATING: ★★★★½
I really admire her courage in writing a unique heroine with such a severe disability. She uses some of her own experiences to imbue Juliet’s character with realism on both an emotional and physical level. Juliet has a quiet inner strength which she calls on whenever she needs to cope with the mockery inflicted by her peers and the constant tirade from her own mother. I love how, over the course of the story, she gains in confidence and Alex sums it up perfectly.
“If you knew anything about my wife, you would know that she is entirely capable of taking care of herself."
I positively adore Alec.. He's just the sweetest, kindest, man. Rather than the rake of the title, he's just a perfect gentleman. I love how he champions Juliet and is so protective towards her. I enjoyed the set-down he gives those two harpies, Miss Amelia Snowe and Lady Felicia, when he finds them in the music room and hears their cruel remarks about Juliet, who happens to be hiding behind a screen.
"I must ask you to return to the festivities," he continued, his voice definitely cool. "This room is for family use only."
And you two are not family, his voice implied. Juliet bit back a cheer.
"We will leave at once, “Amelia said her voice thick with apology. Of course she would not wish to insult an eligible like Deveril, Juliet thought cynically.
"We apologise for the intrusion, my lord," Felicia cooed.
Juliet bit her lip to keep from laughing at the insincerity.
"There's no harm done ladies," Deveril assured them with more generosity than they deserved. "And I pray you," he added, "try not to stumble down the hall. One would hate to see the two of you make a spectacle of yourselves. This isn't a circus, you know."
Despite having the worst parents imaginable neither of them has become cynical and embittered. Each in their own way has had the strength to become a better person. Juliet is compassionate with a caring heart and Alec has striven to rebuild his reputation which was sullied by his father's notorious drinking and whoring.
The mystery surrounding the disappearance of Juliet's music teacher is the ideal way of bringing these two together. I like how their relationship develops slowly, allowing them to really get to know and understand one another. This makes their falling in love seem natural and inevitable. The scene where they consummate their marriage is both intimate and sensual but laced with lovely touches of humour. This little discussion about making love made me smile.
"We'll do it whenever we please. In very room of the house."
" Even the butler's pantry?" she asked, her breath short as she felt the press of his erection against her stomach.
"Especially," Alec said, widening her legs so that he could rest his hips between them, " especially the butler's pantry."
There's a great cast of secondary characters including Cecily and Winterson from How to Dance with a Duke, the delightful Lady Madeline with her madcap plans, Monteith with his mocking comments about Alex's sartorial elegance and, of course, Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby, whom Ms Collins refers to in an interview as "the kind who makes Mommie Dearest look like Mother of the Year." There was enough drama in the plot to keep me intrigued not to mention the unexpected twist at the end.
Now I'm waiting with impatience for Madeline and Monteith's story in the third book, How to Entice an Earl.
VERDICT: A WONDERFUL LOVE STORY WITH LOTS OF HEART
RATING: ★★★★½
July 31, 2012
Review Under the Covers
Miss Juliet Shelby has had a tendre for the dashing Lord Alec Deveril since she first met him, but as one of the "Ugly Ducklings" she knows he is well above her social standing and despite his gentlemanly manners and friendship she knows he will never want anything more. As well as being on a lower social rung, she is also crippled and cursed with a selfish overbearing mother who is ruthlessly intent on her marrying a man she finds repulsive and a little scary. But with one of Juliet's old friends disappearance and the offer of dancing lessons, Alec and Juliet become close and neither can seem to deny their attraction.
After reading How to Dance with a Duke I have been looking forward to reading the next in the Ugly Ducklings series and I wasn't disappointed, it was fun, romantic and sweet. As with How to Dance with a Duke the book had a mystery to be solved, which gave Juliet and Alec an excuse to spend time together, but more then that the mystery itself was genuinely interesting if not a little disturbing (in a good way!) and I liked the unexpected twist at the end.
Although the title of the book How to Romance a Rake is deceiving as I thought Alec was in no way rakeish at all, he was a gentleman and a very sweet, gallant one and I did like him. He was the kind of man you would bring to meet your parents but would still ravish you on the carriage back home! Juliet, although I preferred Cecily from the first book, I still really liked and it isn't often that you have a heroine with such a disfigurement.
This was an enjoyable almost a friends-to-lovers book where the hero and heroine were perfectly suited and an interesting mystery to make sure the story is told at a steady pace, I highly recommend it!
*ARC provided by publisher
Miss Juliet Shelby has had a tendre for the dashing Lord Alec Deveril since she first met him, but as one of the "Ugly Ducklings" she knows he is well above her social standing and despite his gentlemanly manners and friendship she knows he will never want anything more. As well as being on a lower social rung, she is also crippled and cursed with a selfish overbearing mother who is ruthlessly intent on her marrying a man she finds repulsive and a little scary. But with one of Juliet's old friends disappearance and the offer of dancing lessons, Alec and Juliet become close and neither can seem to deny their attraction.
After reading How to Dance with a Duke I have been looking forward to reading the next in the Ugly Ducklings series and I wasn't disappointed, it was fun, romantic and sweet. As with How to Dance with a Duke the book had a mystery to be solved, which gave Juliet and Alec an excuse to spend time together, but more then that the mystery itself was genuinely interesting if not a little disturbing (in a good way!) and I liked the unexpected twist at the end.
Although the title of the book How to Romance a Rake is deceiving as I thought Alec was in no way rakeish at all, he was a gentleman and a very sweet, gallant one and I did like him. He was the kind of man you would bring to meet your parents but would still ravish you on the carriage back home! Juliet, although I preferred Cecily from the first book, I still really liked and it isn't often that you have a heroine with such a disfigurement.
This was an enjoyable almost a friends-to-lovers book where the hero and heroine were perfectly suited and an interesting mystery to make sure the story is told at a steady pace, I highly recommend it!
*ARC provided by publisher
November 20, 2018
3.75 ish/5 stars.
Sorry for being so difficult with the rating, but I can't decide if I simply enjoyed this book or loved the book.
I picked up this book simply because I love, love shy, wallflower heroine's paired with those dashing, handsome, lopsided-grin wearing heroes. I was in the mood for a book just like that, and this just floated up in my updates feed somehow. Imagine my surprise when I start reading to find out that it's quite different from other books of the same trope.
Juliet Shelby was terribly injured in a carraige accident when she was younger, and while the rest of the world believes she has a mangled foot that causes her to limp, and the deem the use of a cane. The truth is her injuries were much more grave, to the point where her leg had to be amputated to save her life. No one knows this, because Juliet's mother the absolute viper of a woman doesn't want anyone to know she has a infirm, mangled progeny. Put this mother in some list of women with effed up parenting skills somewhere.
Her mother's cruelty over the years has led to Juliet feeling extremely shy, insecure and of the firm belief that she deserves nothing good in life. She's certain no man will ever pay attention to her, she's certain no man would ever want her. While I get that, it also doesn't make sense to me that she's never ever had any man give her attention. Like not even a footman or something. Apart from her limp, and the shyness that she carries with her everywhere she's quite pretty, and to top it all - she comes with a hefty dowry. This part of the plot kind of fell flat for me. I suppose it was just so that angst could be brought in with her fearing Alec would reject her because of her leg - or lack of leg.
Which brings me to our hero. Alec Deveril (lol) has the commonly found angst in our HR tropes; her father was basically a doucebag who was called The Devil Deveril (of course). That sets up the age old trope of Alec believing he will be nothing different from his father, a man who was cruel, cheated on his wife with any moving human object and beat her on the regular and was just basically a dick. Alec and Juliet have been aquainted with her each through friends, however given to Alec's fear and Juliet's shyness they never get a chance to get to know each other. And, to top it all Alec had been thinking of offering marraige to Juliet's good friend Madeline - one of the other ugly ducklings. There was thankfully no terrible angst with that storyline, so I'm okay with it.
When they get the chance to be with each other, you do start to root for them. Their connection is palpable and I was looking forward to seeing their romance grow. There is a sideplot with her mother forcing her to marry a despicable creature, and you know where we are going with this. There is a slight plot gap with Alec lamenting to Juliet that he would never marry anyone, given that he had been thinking of offering for Madeline in the start of the book it felt like whiplash. But still, he realizes he cannot let Juliet marry that creature so he asks her to marry him. You also know where we are going with this.
My favorite parts of the book come after their marraige (despite the few chapters of un-needed sideplot and scheming mother and despicable creature) where Juliet and Alec truly connect on a deeper emotional and physical level. I loved, loved their wedding night, and how kind and wonderful Alec turned out to be. It was much less angsty than I had expected but still it worked. Of course, I couldn't help thinking to myself how much more explosive the story would have been in the hands of authors like Elizabeth Hoyt or a Lisa Kleypas - never a good thought to have but alas!
The author does a good job of evolving their emotional connect along with the physical. There isn't a random I love you coming from any side, thanfully not even from Juliet considering it's always the wallflowers going in for the kill first. Overall I enjoyed the book, but it wasn't something that had me crying, laughing and swooning. However I do believe it had the potential to do so.
I think the main reason why I would recommend this book is that I haven't yet seen an author go for such a physical disability in a heroine before. The most I've seen "plumpness" and a scar, which mostly isn't even a very distinguisble scar. But still I like how the author gave us a real look at Juliet's body and self-confidence issues. But secondly, and more importantly, Alez truly was a wonderful hero for Juliet. So for the pure romance I do certainly reccommend the book.
The part I didn't like were as follows:
1. The plot is quite cliche. The mommy and daddy issues completely *hold your breath* define both characters and that's truly exhausting now.
2. The sideplot with the missing teacher and then subsequent italian master painter leading to that last climax is just unnecessary. I would have preferred to read more about Juliet and Alec than all that nonsense.
Sorry for being so difficult with the rating, but I can't decide if I simply enjoyed this book or loved the book.
I picked up this book simply because I love, love shy, wallflower heroine's paired with those dashing, handsome, lopsided-grin wearing heroes. I was in the mood for a book just like that, and this just floated up in my updates feed somehow. Imagine my surprise when I start reading to find out that it's quite different from other books of the same trope.
Juliet Shelby was terribly injured in a carraige accident when she was younger, and while the rest of the world believes she has a mangled foot that causes her to limp, and the deem the use of a cane. The truth is her injuries were much more grave, to the point where her leg had to be amputated to save her life. No one knows this, because Juliet's mother the absolute viper of a woman doesn't want anyone to know she has a infirm, mangled progeny. Put this mother in some list of women with effed up parenting skills somewhere.
Her mother's cruelty over the years has led to Juliet feeling extremely shy, insecure and of the firm belief that she deserves nothing good in life. She's certain no man will ever pay attention to her, she's certain no man would ever want her. While I get that, it also doesn't make sense to me that she's never ever had any man give her attention. Like not even a footman or something. Apart from her limp, and the shyness that she carries with her everywhere she's quite pretty, and to top it all - she comes with a hefty dowry. This part of the plot kind of fell flat for me. I suppose it was just so that angst could be brought in with her fearing Alec would reject her because of her leg - or lack of leg.
Which brings me to our hero. Alec Deveril (lol) has the commonly found angst in our HR tropes; her father was basically a doucebag who was called The Devil Deveril (of course). That sets up the age old trope of Alec believing he will be nothing different from his father, a man who was cruel, cheated on his wife with any moving human object and beat her on the regular and was just basically a dick. Alec and Juliet have been aquainted with her each through friends, however given to Alec's fear and Juliet's shyness they never get a chance to get to know each other. And, to top it all Alec had been thinking of offering marraige to Juliet's good friend Madeline - one of the other ugly ducklings. There was thankfully no terrible angst with that storyline, so I'm okay with it.
When they get the chance to be with each other, you do start to root for them. Their connection is palpable and I was looking forward to seeing their romance grow. There is a sideplot with her mother forcing her to marry a despicable creature, and you know where we are going with this. There is a slight plot gap with Alec lamenting to Juliet that he would never marry anyone, given that he had been thinking of offering for Madeline in the start of the book it felt like whiplash. But still, he realizes he cannot let Juliet marry that creature so he asks her to marry him. You also know where we are going with this.
My favorite parts of the book come after their marraige (despite the few chapters of un-needed sideplot and scheming mother and despicable creature) where Juliet and Alec truly connect on a deeper emotional and physical level. I loved, loved their wedding night, and how kind and wonderful Alec turned out to be. It was much less angsty than I had expected but still it worked. Of course, I couldn't help thinking to myself how much more explosive the story would have been in the hands of authors like Elizabeth Hoyt or a Lisa Kleypas - never a good thought to have but alas!
The author does a good job of evolving their emotional connect along with the physical. There isn't a random I love you coming from any side, thanfully not even from Juliet considering it's always the wallflowers going in for the kill first. Overall I enjoyed the book, but it wasn't something that had me crying, laughing and swooning. However I do believe it had the potential to do so.
I think the main reason why I would recommend this book is that I haven't yet seen an author go for such a physical disability in a heroine before. The most I've seen "plumpness" and a scar, which mostly isn't even a very distinguisble scar. But still I like how the author gave us a real look at Juliet's body and self-confidence issues. But secondly, and more importantly, Alez truly was a wonderful hero for Juliet. So for the pure romance I do certainly reccommend the book.
The part I didn't like were as follows:
1. The plot is quite cliche. The mommy and daddy issues completely *hold your breath* define both characters and that's truly exhausting now.
2. The sideplot with the missing teacher and then subsequent italian master painter leading to that last climax is just unnecessary. I would have preferred to read more about Juliet and Alec than all that nonsense.
May 10, 2019
The author chewed off more than she could handle with the mystery/suspense angle. So, she juggled it up and then tossed it around a bit and let things take care of themselves! And that's the good part!
The romance is as generic as they come - a determinedly squeaky-clean Lord (Viscount, actually - didn't anything go with viscount?* ) wants a duty wife, settles on the h's sister, but the retiring h with a disability sends out unconscious lures. So, yeah yada yada while they try to solve the mystery.
I persevered but mostly skimmed and definitely skimmed the romance part. Since I had come so far, I needed to know whodunnit, dammit! Okay, wow!
One reviewer has picked out some bloopers. Can't comment as I skimmed too much, too fast so it's all blurry. But, the emphasis on the disability jarred a bit until the author equates it with the returning soldiers. I kinda bought that.
* Okay, so I searched GR for some 'Viscount' titles and yes, it's difficult to find a verb that alliterates with 'Viscount'. There's one 'Vexing the Viscount' and... 'To wed/win/vanquish a Viscount'. So boring. So I guess if the author wanted to continue the series tradition, she had to find a new word - and rake fits. Anytime, anywhere!
The romance is as generic as they come - a determinedly squeaky-clean Lord (Viscount, actually - didn't anything go with viscount?* ) wants a duty wife, settles on the h's sister, but the retiring h with a disability sends out unconscious lures. So, yeah yada yada while they try to solve the mystery.
I persevered but mostly skimmed and definitely skimmed the romance part. Since I had come so far, I needed to know whodunnit, dammit! Okay, wow!
One reviewer has picked out some bloopers. Can't comment as I skimmed too much, too fast so it's all blurry. But, the emphasis on the disability jarred a bit until the author equates it with the returning soldiers. I kinda bought that.
* Okay, so I searched GR for some 'Viscount' titles and yes, it's difficult to find a verb that alliterates with 'Viscount'. There's one 'Vexing the Viscount' and... 'To wed/win/vanquish a Viscount'. So boring. So I guess if the author wanted to continue the series tradition, she had to find a new word - and rake fits. Anytime, anywhere!
July 11, 2013
This is the author's second book in her Ugly Ducklings series of three cousins - Cecily, Juliet & Madeline.
This story focuses on Juliet, who has a physical disability with her leg aka the big, shameful secret, and Lord Alec Deveril. Each of the main characters had one parent who was simply beastly to them. Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby, has put her down since the accident that caused Juliet's injury and has always been a schemer and manipulative of her. Deveril's father was known as Devil Deveril and, besides the usual drunkenness and gambling vices, was brutal to Alec's mother. So, right there, we have an interesting storyline of two people who have issues from their past who come together and grow stronger as they fall in love. And, I have to say, that I really liked Alec & Juliet and their love story.
But...here's why this only got two stars from me.
*Who is putting titles on these books? Just as the first one had no dancing with the duke, this one doesn't have a rake! Alec has spent a lifetime trying to live down his father's terrible reputation. He is not a rake.
*Stupid, stupid continuity errors. Juliet has a quite distinct physical injury It starts out to be the left foot, then the right foot, then the left foot again and then the right foot again. One would expect that the author and her editors MIGHT have noticed that.
*Continuity error #2 - the maid. When they flee to Gretna, they have no maid with them so Juliet must make do with maids at the inns. At the inn in Gretna, Juliet thanks the maid, Weston. That would be Weston, the personal maid she has had for years. Or are all maids simply called Weston?
*The mystery that brings Alec and Juliet together. Juliet's piano instructor, Anna Turner has disappeared and Juliet is afraid she is in danger. Alec agrees to help look for her. The author leaves some very heavy-handed hints that Anna Turner may not be as nice as Juliet thinks. And, by the way, her family all perished in a house fire. (Alert! Alert!) So, Juliet has spent hours upon hours with this teacher for several years and nobody has noticed
I think the author should just focus on telling a simple story because the more she adds to it, the more it runs off the rails. And, please, use a post-it or something as a reminder of pertinent details about your characters. The foot error should not have happened.
This story focuses on Juliet, who has a physical disability with her leg aka the big, shameful secret, and Lord Alec Deveril. Each of the main characters had one parent who was simply beastly to them. Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby, has put her down since the accident that caused Juliet's injury and has always been a schemer and manipulative of her. Deveril's father was known as Devil Deveril and, besides the usual drunkenness and gambling vices, was brutal to Alec's mother. So, right there, we have an interesting storyline of two people who have issues from their past who come together and grow stronger as they fall in love. And, I have to say, that I really liked Alec & Juliet and their love story.
But...here's why this only got two stars from me.
*Who is putting titles on these books? Just as the first one had no dancing with the duke, this one doesn't have a rake! Alec has spent a lifetime trying to live down his father's terrible reputation. He is not a rake.
*Stupid, stupid continuity errors. Juliet has a quite distinct physical injury It starts out to be the left foot, then the right foot, then the left foot again and then the right foot again. One would expect that the author and her editors MIGHT have noticed that.
*Continuity error #2 - the maid. When they flee to Gretna, they have no maid with them so Juliet must make do with maids at the inns. At the inn in Gretna, Juliet thanks the maid, Weston. That would be Weston, the personal maid she has had for years. Or are all maids simply called Weston?
*The mystery that brings Alec and Juliet together. Juliet's piano instructor, Anna Turner has disappeared and Juliet is afraid she is in danger. Alec agrees to help look for her. The author leaves some very heavy-handed hints that Anna Turner may not be as nice as Juliet thinks. And, by the way, her family all perished in a house fire. (Alert! Alert!) So, Juliet has spent hours upon hours with this teacher for several years and nobody has noticed
I think the author should just focus on telling a simple story because the more she adds to it, the more it runs off the rails. And, please, use a post-it or something as a reminder of pertinent details about your characters. The foot error should not have happened.
August 1, 2012
Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed by Laci
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
How To Romance A Rake really surprised me. It had plot points and characterizations that I have never experienced before or come across, and I was pleasantly surprised. I was really shocked, but the way the various scenarios turned out really made me happy. Manda Collins’ second book in her series didn’t disappoint in any way. She integrated new characters in with ones from the first book flawlessly and used them to really build upon the story.
There was plenty of laughter but wasn’t light on the overall story. The characters were enjoyably brought to life and I felt the camaraderie and interest between them. None felt awkward or out of place. How To Romance A Rake isn’t a typical, every day historical romance. I loved the twists and turns and the unexpected mysteries that sprang up.
I felt sorry for Juliet but admired her for her determination and how she never let the harpies that are the other young society maidens and her own mother get her down. I loved Juliet’s cousins, the other 2 “ugly ducklings” because they truly loved Juliet and wanted to see her happy. The way they went about that had me laughing and I know it confused Deveril.
I loved Deveril. He didn’t start out meaning to be a hero trying to save the day. He kinda just fell into it, much to his chagrin. To give him credit, he didn’t complain once and once he admitted Juliet was the one he had always wanted, he never once wavered in his decision to help her in her search for her friend and to protect her from anything that came along. He handled Juliet’s secret with aplomb and that made him one of my favorite heroes.
How to Romance A Rake doesn’t disappoint. There is so much more to the book than the synopsis tells. Juliet is truly an inspirational character and a true original. I can’t wait for Manda Collins’ next ugly duckling book. It’s sure to be as great as the first two.
Reviewed by Laci
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
How To Romance A Rake really surprised me. It had plot points and characterizations that I have never experienced before or come across, and I was pleasantly surprised. I was really shocked, but the way the various scenarios turned out really made me happy. Manda Collins’ second book in her series didn’t disappoint in any way. She integrated new characters in with ones from the first book flawlessly and used them to really build upon the story.
There was plenty of laughter but wasn’t light on the overall story. The characters were enjoyably brought to life and I felt the camaraderie and interest between them. None felt awkward or out of place. How To Romance A Rake isn’t a typical, every day historical romance. I loved the twists and turns and the unexpected mysteries that sprang up.
I felt sorry for Juliet but admired her for her determination and how she never let the harpies that are the other young society maidens and her own mother get her down. I loved Juliet’s cousins, the other 2 “ugly ducklings” because they truly loved Juliet and wanted to see her happy. The way they went about that had me laughing and I know it confused Deveril.
I loved Deveril. He didn’t start out meaning to be a hero trying to save the day. He kinda just fell into it, much to his chagrin. To give him credit, he didn’t complain once and once he admitted Juliet was the one he had always wanted, he never once wavered in his decision to help her in her search for her friend and to protect her from anything that came along. He handled Juliet’s secret with aplomb and that made him one of my favorite heroes.
How to Romance A Rake doesn’t disappoint. There is so much more to the book than the synopsis tells. Juliet is truly an inspirational character and a true original. I can’t wait for Manda Collins’ next ugly duckling book. It’s sure to be as great as the first two.
September 3, 2016
This didn't work for me for several reasons:
1) Hero and heroine spend very little time together. They start out getting along, already crushing on each other. Each has a big bad secret they're hiding until the very end, even though both are fairly obvious and, given the build-up, a little disappointing. Although, in all fairness, you have to give the author credit for having a heroine with a
2) Too much drama. There were kidnappings, an abandoned child, a mother from hell, a mystery painter, two (!!!) murderers, the big bad secrets... It was all a little too much for me. I would've loved to spend more time watching hero and heroine get to know each other.
3) The title. Say what you will about the hero, but he is sweet, and kind, and adorable, and tries very very hard to make sure his reputation is spotless (his dad was nicknamed "Devil Deveril", all ties in with the Big Bad Secret...). Also, she does absolutely no romancing. None.
1) Hero and heroine spend very little time together. They start out getting along, already crushing on each other. Each has a big bad secret they're hiding until the very end, even though both are fairly obvious and, given the build-up, a little disappointing. Although, in all fairness, you have to give the author credit for having a heroine with a
2) Too much drama. There were kidnappings, an abandoned child, a mother from hell, a mystery painter, two (!!!) murderers, the big bad secrets... It was all a little too much for me. I would've loved to spend more time watching hero and heroine get to know each other.
3) The title. Say what you will about the hero, but he is sweet, and kind, and adorable, and tries very very hard to make sure his reputation is spotless (his dad was nicknamed "Devil Deveril", all ties in with the Big Bad Secret...). Also, she does absolutely no romancing. None.
August 13, 2012
It is just soooooo good and I'm so sad to have finished it in one seating. I was really impatient for the release of How to Romance a Rake and pre-ordered it in Amazon Kindle. Doesn't matter that it's priced the same as a paperback because by the time the paperback arrives, I think I've already wilted from the waiting.
How to Romance a Rake was a really sweet, cute and romantic read. I always have a penchant bluestocking heroines and Juliet was one along with her other two cousins. What more that she was crippled in one leg - which is a huge defect in the eyes of the ton - and made her more appealing in my eyes. Juliet was a wonderful heroine who was known to be the most animate among her three cousins before the fateful accident.
Alec was in no way rakish at all. He just gave off that illusion to people. He was a real gentleman, sweet, kind and thoughtful. I enjoyed Alec's and Juliet's scenes together. The romance between Alec and Juliet was so sweet and romantic. *Sighs dreamily* The mysteries were really good, the missing women, Lady Shelby's push to get Juliet married to Lord Turlington and the secret of Juliet's Vienna accident. They kept me guessing and I had several theories all at once.
I enjoyed How to Romance a Rake immensely and as usual, the secondary characters were wonderfully fleshed out. It was so cute to see her cousins playing matchmaker to Juliet and Alec.
Thank you Manda for this amazing story and series. I think I may love you. *grins impishly* I really look forward to
.
How to Romance a Rake was a really sweet, cute and romantic read. I always have a penchant bluestocking heroines and Juliet was one along with her other two cousins. What more that she was crippled in one leg - which is a huge defect in the eyes of the ton - and made her more appealing in my eyes. Juliet was a wonderful heroine who was known to be the most animate among her three cousins before the fateful accident.
Alec was in no way rakish at all. He just gave off that illusion to people. He was a real gentleman, sweet, kind and thoughtful. I enjoyed Alec's and Juliet's scenes together. The romance between Alec and Juliet was so sweet and romantic. *Sighs dreamily* The mysteries were really good, the missing women, Lady Shelby's push to get Juliet married to Lord Turlington and the secret of Juliet's Vienna accident. They kept me guessing and I had several theories all at once.
I enjoyed How to Romance a Rake immensely and as usual, the secondary characters were wonderfully fleshed out. It was so cute to see her cousins playing matchmaker to Juliet and Alec.
Thank you Manda for this amazing story and series. I think I may love you. *grins impishly* I really look forward to
.
May 18, 2018
Bumped down to 3.5 stars at re-read due to silly and fairly badly executed mystery subplot and a bit of unresolved logic. Still adore Juliet and Alec.
Original review:
Delightful! This book was really delightful! Sometimes you get lulled into thinking that books with lower ratings can't possibly be good and that was the way I thought about the Ugly ducklings series. I was recommended this book when looking for books with damaged heroines and picked it up. It was great in that respect and it was great in all other aspects.
Juliet is crippled and a wallflower but her friend married Alec's friend so now they move in the same circle. Juliet's friend goes missing and Alec wants to help, in part because he can't resist spending time with Juliet, in part because he couldn't save his mother. Juliet's mother is opposed the match because she wants to sell Juliet to Lord Turlington to pay off her gambling debt.
It might not be the most epic love story but it is sweet and wonderful and the outside threats are the conflicts. There was (almost) no TSTL-moments or misunderstandings. In hindsight, I should have read the first book before jumping into this one because they play a big role. I will be careful before announcing that Manda Collins is a new favorite - I've been burned before but this book was definitely a hit!
Original review:
Delightful! This book was really delightful! Sometimes you get lulled into thinking that books with lower ratings can't possibly be good and that was the way I thought about the Ugly ducklings series. I was recommended this book when looking for books with damaged heroines and picked it up. It was great in that respect and it was great in all other aspects.
Juliet is crippled and a wallflower but her friend married Alec's friend so now they move in the same circle. Juliet's friend goes missing and Alec wants to help, in part because he can't resist spending time with Juliet, in part because he couldn't save his mother. Juliet's mother is opposed the match because she wants to sell Juliet to Lord Turlington to pay off her gambling debt.
It might not be the most epic love story but it is sweet and wonderful and the outside threats are the conflicts. There was (almost) no TSTL-moments or misunderstandings. In hindsight, I should have read the first book before jumping into this one because they play a big role. I will be careful before announcing that Manda Collins is a new favorite - I've been burned before but this book was definitely a hit!
August 4, 2014
I really enjoyed reading the second book in Manda Collins Ugly Duckings series. I had just finished the first book and I was on the fence about the series but I really wanted to read Juliet's story, so I ended up buying the ebook when it turned out that my library did not have a copy. And I was not disappointed. The romance between Juliet and Alec was adorable, and the whole book was just a lighthearted read; there wasn't a lot of drama between Alec and Juliet and how they finally got together, which was nice for a change.
The only thing that I take issue with is the title. I really didn't think Alec was much of a rakish character compared to some other historical romances. He was pretty nice actually and there really wasn't too much reference to a rakish past either. But, other than a mismatched title, I liked the book.
I would highly recommend Sabrina Jeffries' A Notorious Love for those who enjoyed this book. The physical issues that both heroines deal with in both books was similar; however, the characters' personalities were markedly different.
The only thing that I take issue with is the title. I really didn't think Alec was much of a rakish character compared to some other historical romances. He was pretty nice actually and there really wasn't too much reference to a rakish past either. But, other than a mismatched title, I liked the book.
I would highly recommend Sabrina Jeffries' A Notorious Love for those who enjoyed this book. The physical issues that both heroines deal with in both books was similar; however, the characters' personalities were markedly different.
August 15, 2012
Could not hold my attention, took me forever to finish. I think this suffers from too much story. The main characters are dealing with this, then dealing with that, then dealing with this, etc,. I sped-read through most of the book. Just nothing new or interesting here (the heroine does have a body issue not dealt with in books often at all but this still didn't sell me on the book) many other great regency stories to read, don't waste your time with this one.
January 2, 2015
Good book with two wonderful characters. Juliet is a quiet girl who is usually found around the edges of the ballroom. She has a pronounced limp because of an accident years earlier and is often made fun of by some members of society. She is stunned when Deveril comes to her defense against a couple of the nastier women and offers to teach her to dance. Alec isn't sure why he's so intent on helping Juliet, but help her he will.
Juliet is an amazingly strong woman. She has been through a trauma that would have broken many others and not only isn't bitter but has a terrific sense of humor and an intelligence that is truly unusual. She has been kept on the sidelines of society by her mother who is so concerned that Juliet might embarrass her because of her disability that she puts Juliet down constantly. She has made it clear that as far as she is concerned no decent man will ever want Juliet. She is pushing Juliet to accept the advances of a man that Juliet finds very disturbing. When she goes too far in her demands, Alec takes Juliet to her cousin's home, but knows the only way to truly protect her is to marry her himself.
I loved Alec from the very beginning. His rescue of Juliet from those women at the ball was wonderful and I loved the way that he stayed with her. His offer to teach her to dance was sweet, even as he couldn't understand why he was so drawn to her. He has spent years trying to build a good reputation in order to counteract the stigma of his father's actions. He fears that he has inherited his father's temperament and has sworn that he won't allow himself any strong feelings for a woman. He can't deny what he feels for Juliet and finds himself growing ever closer to her. I loved the way he couldn't resist kissing her and how surprised he was by the strength of their attraction. He is infuriated by her mother's actions and realizes that the best thing to do is marry her quickly and get her away.
I loved the trip to Scotland and the wedding at Gretna Green. Alec's did his best to make Juliet feel comfortable with him. He could tell she was nervous about something and tried to put her at ease. I really liked his nervousness and the way it showed how important she already was to him. Juliet's fears about his reaction to her injury were very realistic. I loved the way he treated her and how he showed her that it didn't change his feelings at all. His attitude went a long way toward improving her confidence in herself after years of abuse by her mother.
Thanks to her mother the extent of her disability became common knowledge and society didn't react well. Juliet wasn't so concerned about herself, but she worried about the effect on Alec, especially as their marriage had been going so well. Alec has been fighting some of his own demons and when his uncle tells Juliet some of it, Alec is sure that she will be disgusted with him. He is stunned when she not only doesn't blame him, but shows him how wrong he had been all this time. I loved the way that this really showed how much they had come to care for each other, even though they had yet to admit it.
The mystery that ran throughout the book was very good. Juliet's music teacher has gone missing, leaving her child behind. Juliet is very worried and accepts Alec's help in trying to find her. I loved the way they worked together and how much Alec respected Juliet's intelligence. While the bad guy was who I thought it was, there was a very interesting twist to the resolution that I really didn't see coming. It created some real danger for both Juliet and Alec, but it coming through it they were finally able to confess their feelings.
I really enjoyed the close relationships of the three cousins and how they supported each other. Since Cecily married in the first book, she is now in a better position to help the other two. I loved her efforts to get Juliet to believe in herself. I also enjoyed Maddie's advice to Alec and his complete shock over it. The three gentlemen were also great friends and great backup for each other when needed. Winterson gave Alec the kick in the pants he needed but also the support necessary to get Juliet to safety. I loved Monteith's snarkiness and am really looking forward to the matchup between him and Maddie in the next book.
The only issues I had with the book were a few editing ones. There were several problems with consistency that had me confused. One with Juliet's maid being where she hadn't been before, but the biggest being with Juliet's injury changing location several times. It wasn't enough to ruin the book, but I did find myself rereading a couple sections to make sure I hadn't missed something. I also found the title of the book misleading, as Alec was definitely not a rake.
Juliet is an amazingly strong woman. She has been through a trauma that would have broken many others and not only isn't bitter but has a terrific sense of humor and an intelligence that is truly unusual. She has been kept on the sidelines of society by her mother who is so concerned that Juliet might embarrass her because of her disability that she puts Juliet down constantly. She has made it clear that as far as she is concerned no decent man will ever want Juliet. She is pushing Juliet to accept the advances of a man that Juliet finds very disturbing. When she goes too far in her demands, Alec takes Juliet to her cousin's home, but knows the only way to truly protect her is to marry her himself.
I loved Alec from the very beginning. His rescue of Juliet from those women at the ball was wonderful and I loved the way that he stayed with her. His offer to teach her to dance was sweet, even as he couldn't understand why he was so drawn to her. He has spent years trying to build a good reputation in order to counteract the stigma of his father's actions. He fears that he has inherited his father's temperament and has sworn that he won't allow himself any strong feelings for a woman. He can't deny what he feels for Juliet and finds himself growing ever closer to her. I loved the way he couldn't resist kissing her and how surprised he was by the strength of their attraction. He is infuriated by her mother's actions and realizes that the best thing to do is marry her quickly and get her away.
I loved the trip to Scotland and the wedding at Gretna Green. Alec's did his best to make Juliet feel comfortable with him. He could tell she was nervous about something and tried to put her at ease. I really liked his nervousness and the way it showed how important she already was to him. Juliet's fears about his reaction to her injury were very realistic. I loved the way he treated her and how he showed her that it didn't change his feelings at all. His attitude went a long way toward improving her confidence in herself after years of abuse by her mother.
Thanks to her mother the extent of her disability became common knowledge and society didn't react well. Juliet wasn't so concerned about herself, but she worried about the effect on Alec, especially as their marriage had been going so well. Alec has been fighting some of his own demons and when his uncle tells Juliet some of it, Alec is sure that she will be disgusted with him. He is stunned when she not only doesn't blame him, but shows him how wrong he had been all this time. I loved the way that this really showed how much they had come to care for each other, even though they had yet to admit it.
The mystery that ran throughout the book was very good. Juliet's music teacher has gone missing, leaving her child behind. Juliet is very worried and accepts Alec's help in trying to find her. I loved the way they worked together and how much Alec respected Juliet's intelligence. While the bad guy was who I thought it was, there was a very interesting twist to the resolution that I really didn't see coming. It created some real danger for both Juliet and Alec, but it coming through it they were finally able to confess their feelings.
I really enjoyed the close relationships of the three cousins and how they supported each other. Since Cecily married in the first book, she is now in a better position to help the other two. I loved her efforts to get Juliet to believe in herself. I also enjoyed Maddie's advice to Alec and his complete shock over it. The three gentlemen were also great friends and great backup for each other when needed. Winterson gave Alec the kick in the pants he needed but also the support necessary to get Juliet to safety. I loved Monteith's snarkiness and am really looking forward to the matchup between him and Maddie in the next book.
The only issues I had with the book were a few editing ones. There were several problems with consistency that had me confused. One with Juliet's maid being where she hadn't been before, but the biggest being with Juliet's injury changing location several times. It wasn't enough to ruin the book, but I did find myself rereading a couple sections to make sure I hadn't missed something. I also found the title of the book misleading, as Alec was definitely not a rake.
June 1, 2012
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I really enjoyed this book. The romance between Juliet and Alec was just so sweet. I won't lie, I may have a slight crush on Alec. He was just so great. From the beginning he looked out for Juliet and was concerned for her welfare. She was in need of a knight in shining armor and I liked that he was a savior for her.
When Juliet was fifteen, she was involved in an accident that resulted in a permanent injury to her foot. She now walks with the use of a cane and has a slight limp. Because of this, she has spent the last three years a perpetual wallflower. She does what she can to blend in and not draw attention to herself.
Lord Alec Deveril has spent most of his adult life trying to right the wrongs of his father. His father was a wastrel and a brute of a man. Alec has tried to become nothing like the man he has despised for most of his life. He knows that he must marry but he definitely doesn't want to marry anyone that he feels attracted to. He just wants someone from a good background that he won't have to worry about falling for. He also knows that Juliet Shelby is definitely not that woman. He knows that she is shy and not a "fashionable miss" but he can't help but feel a spark whenever she is around. She is witty and smart and he soon finds himself doing anything he can to be near her.
When a close friend of Juliet's suddenly disappears she turns to Alec for help and advice. Together they both try to solve the mystery of her friend's disappearance while at the same time both continue to fight the growing attraction they have for one another.
I loved the relationship between Alec and Juliet. I liked that they were both able to truly be themselves with one another. I also loved that Alec is continuously battling for Juliet. He sticks up for her when no one else (with the exception of her cousins) does. I loved that. I honestly don't know how Alec was able to refrain from throttling Juliet's mother. Oh my goodness that woman is horrible. I wish Juliet would have stood up for herself more when it came to her own mother. I feel like their relationship was slightly unresolved and I would have liked the closure of Juliet finally standing up to her.
I also really enjoyed the scenes with all of the secondary characters. I loved seeing Juliet interacting with her cousins and Alec interacting with his friends. There were many scenes that had me giggling out loud.
All in all this was another winner from Manda Collins. Manda is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Whether it be her historicals or her erotica shorts, they are all good! So good that I always find myself unable to put my Kindle down until I've finished the book. Then I'm ferociously checking her site for any info I can find on upcoming books. Seriously, Manda Collins is not an author to be missed.
**ARC copy provided by Author/NetGalley**
I really enjoyed this book. The romance between Juliet and Alec was just so sweet. I won't lie, I may have a slight crush on Alec. He was just so great. From the beginning he looked out for Juliet and was concerned for her welfare. She was in need of a knight in shining armor and I liked that he was a savior for her.
When Juliet was fifteen, she was involved in an accident that resulted in a permanent injury to her foot. She now walks with the use of a cane and has a slight limp. Because of this, she has spent the last three years a perpetual wallflower. She does what she can to blend in and not draw attention to herself.
Lord Alec Deveril has spent most of his adult life trying to right the wrongs of his father. His father was a wastrel and a brute of a man. Alec has tried to become nothing like the man he has despised for most of his life. He knows that he must marry but he definitely doesn't want to marry anyone that he feels attracted to. He just wants someone from a good background that he won't have to worry about falling for. He also knows that Juliet Shelby is definitely not that woman. He knows that she is shy and not a "fashionable miss" but he can't help but feel a spark whenever she is around. She is witty and smart and he soon finds himself doing anything he can to be near her.
When a close friend of Juliet's suddenly disappears she turns to Alec for help and advice. Together they both try to solve the mystery of her friend's disappearance while at the same time both continue to fight the growing attraction they have for one another.
I loved the relationship between Alec and Juliet. I liked that they were both able to truly be themselves with one another. I also loved that Alec is continuously battling for Juliet. He sticks up for her when no one else (with the exception of her cousins) does. I loved that. I honestly don't know how Alec was able to refrain from throttling Juliet's mother. Oh my goodness that woman is horrible. I wish Juliet would have stood up for herself more when it came to her own mother. I feel like their relationship was slightly unresolved and I would have liked the closure of Juliet finally standing up to her.
I also really enjoyed the scenes with all of the secondary characters. I loved seeing Juliet interacting with her cousins and Alec interacting with his friends. There were many scenes that had me giggling out loud.
All in all this was another winner from Manda Collins. Manda is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Whether it be her historicals or her erotica shorts, they are all good! So good that I always find myself unable to put my Kindle down until I've finished the book. Then I'm ferociously checking her site for any info I can find on upcoming books. Seriously, Manda Collins is not an author to be missed.
**ARC copy provided by Author/NetGalley**
July 13, 2012
Miss Juliet Shelby has always made sure to blend into the background in society following an accident that now has her in need of the assistance of a walking cane. Her mother has made it quite clear that no respectable man is going to want a disfigured young lady for a wife and does not allow her to call any attention to herself. But when Juliet is being mocked yet again by some of the tons notorious bullies, she receives an unexpected offer of help from Lord Alec Deveril. He comes to her defense and then offers to teach her to dance to help her feel more comfortable. Juliet can not believe that one of the tons most eligible bachelors is paying her any attention but she sees no way to gracefully refuse. Dancing in his arms is a dream and when Alec comes across Juliet in distress again, this time for a more personal matter involving her missing music teacher, the pair start a quest to find out the truth and along the way, discover some truths about each other that they both have tried to keep hidden.
Lord Alec Deveril has his own secrets to hide. He has a great fear of ending up like his father, the Devil Deveril, and harming any woman he may come to marry. He is adored and liked by all of the ton and knows he must marry but the quiet, unassuming Juliet unexpectedly captures his attention. When he witnesses one to many acts of cruelty at the hands of her mother against Juliet, he steps in and takes matters into his own hands. He has no tolerance for abuse and knows he must protect her, but at what cost to himself?
Manda Collins is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! I adored this book! Juliet was a true delight to read--she was strong, kind, compassionate and lovely. And Alec, sigh. He sees everything and forgets nothing in his bold, caring way and was the perfect person to help Juliet discover that her handicap was no handicap at all. And wow, we usually see fathers doing low and dirty business involving their daughters but this time we had Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby. This is a mother I would not wish upon anyone with her cold and heartless nature. I believe she loved her daughter in a small way but her own happiness and importance in society was valued much higher. I also liked the mystery aspect of this story involving Juliet's missing music teacher and the possible connection to some disturbing paintings. I was pleasantly surprised that I was wrong as to the nature of the villain and I thought the entire situation played out nicely. It didn't overwhelm the story for me, the romance was still front and center, but it added some nice weight to the storyline. If you are looking for a romance filled with warmth and wit (I was laughing quite a bit!) mixed with a bit of mystery to keep you on your toes, Manda Collins delivers! 4 stars
Review copy provided by author through netgalley.com
Lord Alec Deveril has his own secrets to hide. He has a great fear of ending up like his father, the Devil Deveril, and harming any woman he may come to marry. He is adored and liked by all of the ton and knows he must marry but the quiet, unassuming Juliet unexpectedly captures his attention. When he witnesses one to many acts of cruelty at the hands of her mother against Juliet, he steps in and takes matters into his own hands. He has no tolerance for abuse and knows he must protect her, but at what cost to himself?
Manda Collins is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! I adored this book! Juliet was a true delight to read--she was strong, kind, compassionate and lovely. And Alec, sigh. He sees everything and forgets nothing in his bold, caring way and was the perfect person to help Juliet discover that her handicap was no handicap at all. And wow, we usually see fathers doing low and dirty business involving their daughters but this time we had Juliet's mother, Lady Shelby. This is a mother I would not wish upon anyone with her cold and heartless nature. I believe she loved her daughter in a small way but her own happiness and importance in society was valued much higher. I also liked the mystery aspect of this story involving Juliet's missing music teacher and the possible connection to some disturbing paintings. I was pleasantly surprised that I was wrong as to the nature of the villain and I thought the entire situation played out nicely. It didn't overwhelm the story for me, the romance was still front and center, but it added some nice weight to the storyline. If you are looking for a romance filled with warmth and wit (I was laughing quite a bit!) mixed with a bit of mystery to keep you on your toes, Manda Collins delivers! 4 stars
Review copy provided by author through netgalley.com
August 7, 2012
You can find this review and more at Forever Book Lover.
Once again, Manda Collins proves to me that she is an author to watch! This was a heart warming book I really enjoyed!
The cousins are at it again, once again getting deep into solving a mystery. This time Juliet is spotlighted. Her piano teacher is missing, and not only did she disappear in the night, she left behind her most precious possession- her baby daughter. With not much to go on, Juliet makes it her mission to find the missing woman. Don't try to guess this one, I thought I knew exactly who was behind the missing woman, but Manda fooled me!! In addition to penning historical and steamy, hot romances, she now can add mystery/suspense to her writing genres. LOL
Prior to an accident at age fourteen, Juliet was the most animated of her cousins. After the accident, she was left with a pronounced limp. Juliet would have been the belle of any ball, had it not been for the injury to her foot. Sure society knew of her disability but not the extent of her injury. She kept that to herself, even from her two cousins, the infamous "Ugly Ducklings". To make matters worst for Juliet, her own mother wished her to remain in her current position "at the edges of the ton", little by little her mother whittled down her self esteem and took her out of society's eye as to not draw attention to herself.
One night, Juliet gets a verbal lashing from her mother as she catches her daughter doing the unthinkable, "learning to dance". Deveril witnesses the attack and comes to her rescue. Upon learning the Julie didn't dance, he took it upon himself to be her dance partner. I immediately fell in love with Deveril. He comes to her aid more than once during this book, a true hero.
This was more than a love story, it had grit, determination, mystery, laughter, or my!! I don't know that I have adequately expressed my thoughts on this book. It was a loving romance, a perfect romance on loving unconditionally. It makes me believe there are knights in shining armor out there for everyone. And can we be so lucky to find one of our own?
Once again, Manda Collins proves to me that she is an author to watch! This was a heart warming book I really enjoyed!
The cousins are at it again, once again getting deep into solving a mystery. This time Juliet is spotlighted. Her piano teacher is missing, and not only did she disappear in the night, she left behind her most precious possession- her baby daughter. With not much to go on, Juliet makes it her mission to find the missing woman. Don't try to guess this one, I thought I knew exactly who was behind the missing woman, but Manda fooled me!! In addition to penning historical and steamy, hot romances, she now can add mystery/suspense to her writing genres. LOL
Prior to an accident at age fourteen, Juliet was the most animated of her cousins. After the accident, she was left with a pronounced limp. Juliet would have been the belle of any ball, had it not been for the injury to her foot. Sure society knew of her disability but not the extent of her injury. She kept that to herself, even from her two cousins, the infamous "Ugly Ducklings". To make matters worst for Juliet, her own mother wished her to remain in her current position "at the edges of the ton", little by little her mother whittled down her self esteem and took her out of society's eye as to not draw attention to herself.
One night, Juliet gets a verbal lashing from her mother as she catches her daughter doing the unthinkable, "learning to dance". Deveril witnesses the attack and comes to her rescue. Upon learning the Julie didn't dance, he took it upon himself to be her dance partner. I immediately fell in love with Deveril. He comes to her aid more than once during this book, a true hero.
This was more than a love story, it had grit, determination, mystery, laughter, or my!! I don't know that I have adequately expressed my thoughts on this book. It was a loving romance, a perfect romance on loving unconditionally. It makes me believe there are knights in shining armor out there for everyone. And can we be so lucky to find one of our own?
October 2, 2012
I have to say I love it when the Wallflower gets the guy. Juliet is not like Cecily. She is shy and not argumentative, and its from a life of being put down. So you have to love it when a guy (THE guy of society) falls for her. Then there is the romance. The first novel was filed with passion. I loved it. Cecily and Lucas are meant for each other. This one has romance. It has Alec and Juliet getting to know each other and Alec marrying her for reason other than he “ruined” her. I found the first book filled with passion and this book filled with romance. I also liked the Villain in this novel more. I was surprised…I couldn’t actually figure out who the bad guy was in this novel until it was all revealed. Manda Collins knows how to bring a story line along with her romance. Although sometimes I found bits boring, my mind was constantly working and trying to figure out just what exactly was going on.
Good:
Alec—He is very different from Winterson and very different from they way he is seen in society.
Juliet—she hides a secret and I absolutely love that she is the wallflower that gets to show up society
Winterson and Cecily—They are still around and I love it
Monteith—he is starting to grow on me. I love his humour
Bad:
The multiple names. Winterson is not Lucas’s first name. Its not his last name either. And sometimes he gets called by all three. I believe in this novel Alec doesn’t have as many, but because Cecily and Winterson are still in this novel well it gets all typed of confusing some times. Also some parts were a bit boring.
Overall (Writing style, story line, and general):
Overall I loved the romance and the story line. I found the characters enjoyable and all unique. Manda Collins really does know how to add a mystery onto her romance and make a rather enjoyable, although long, read. I can not wait for the third one in the novel
View more of my review and others at my blog: www.mynotsovacantshelf.blogspot.com
Good:
Alec—He is very different from Winterson and very different from they way he is seen in society.
Juliet—she hides a secret and I absolutely love that she is the wallflower that gets to show up society
Winterson and Cecily—They are still around and I love it
Monteith—he is starting to grow on me. I love his humour
Bad:
The multiple names. Winterson is not Lucas’s first name. Its not his last name either. And sometimes he gets called by all three. I believe in this novel Alec doesn’t have as many, but because Cecily and Winterson are still in this novel well it gets all typed of confusing some times. Also some parts were a bit boring.
Overall (Writing style, story line, and general):
Overall I loved the romance and the story line. I found the characters enjoyable and all unique. Manda Collins really does know how to add a mystery onto her romance and make a rather enjoyable, although long, read. I can not wait for the third one in the novel
View more of my review and others at my blog: www.mynotsovacantshelf.blogspot.com
January 11, 2021
Book #2 of the Ugly Ducklings Series by Manda Collins was a fantastic read. I loved the characters of Juliet and Alec, and their story. I enjoy the romance and mystery mix that has been in the series so far. It is also so enjoyable to have characters for Book #1 of this series appear in this one, and have a part in the story. I'm looking forward to starting Book #3.
August 6, 2012
I always enjoy when an author takes a character who seems likes the least likely to obtain what others so desperately want, but ends up with that and much much. This story has the added twist of the heroine not only being a wallflower who was ridiculed by her peers within the ton, but having the worst parents imaginable.
Juliet Shelby was one tough cookie. Injured in a carriage accident when she was fourteen, she's left with a limp and a secret. That secret seems to suck the life out of Juliet. Not because of what the secret it, but because of the stigma her own mother puts on it and Juliet's worth as a person. So it's no wonder that when Alec stands up for Juliet and befriends her that she questions why he's doing it. Despite what she thinks Alec's motives are, she relishes having someone other than her cousins appreciate her for who she is and support her. She may have to fight against her mother, but even then she knew Alec would always stand behind her.
Alec is a man who suffered unimaginable cruelty at the hands of an alcoholic father. Because of what he was subjected to, he doesn't think he's worth much as a man. Sure, he's cleaned up the tarnished name of Deveril, but what his father was and what he did still loom over Alec as an adult. Alec finds himself needing to protect Juliet from the evil gossips and help her as she tries to find out what happened to her music teacher. But Alec soon discovers that what he thought was friendship for Juliet was much more. He has a hard time reconciling himself to the fact that he could care so deeply for Juliet while still harboring the nightmares of his youth. But Juliet proves to Alec that despite what he may think, the sins of his father do not rest at his feet.
I loved this story and I loved the underdog heroine. Despite her physical limitation and her perceived shortcomings, she absolutely shined when she met the man who saw her as the person she is and not just the girl with the limp. An absolute treasure.
Juliet Shelby was one tough cookie. Injured in a carriage accident when she was fourteen, she's left with a limp and a secret. That secret seems to suck the life out of Juliet. Not because of what the secret it, but because of the stigma her own mother puts on it and Juliet's worth as a person. So it's no wonder that when Alec stands up for Juliet and befriends her that she questions why he's doing it. Despite what she thinks Alec's motives are, she relishes having someone other than her cousins appreciate her for who she is and support her. She may have to fight against her mother, but even then she knew Alec would always stand behind her.
Alec is a man who suffered unimaginable cruelty at the hands of an alcoholic father. Because of what he was subjected to, he doesn't think he's worth much as a man. Sure, he's cleaned up the tarnished name of Deveril, but what his father was and what he did still loom over Alec as an adult. Alec finds himself needing to protect Juliet from the evil gossips and help her as she tries to find out what happened to her music teacher. But Alec soon discovers that what he thought was friendship for Juliet was much more. He has a hard time reconciling himself to the fact that he could care so deeply for Juliet while still harboring the nightmares of his youth. But Juliet proves to Alec that despite what he may think, the sins of his father do not rest at his feet.
I loved this story and I loved the underdog heroine. Despite her physical limitation and her perceived shortcomings, she absolutely shined when she met the man who saw her as the person she is and not just the girl with the limp. An absolute treasure.
January 12, 2016
I first started this book on February 6, 2013 ... and then put it down for about 3 years. So, that's obviously saying something right there. I started it again on 1/10/2016 and finally finished it through this time.
It wasn't a bad book and I would definitely read Manda Collins again, but I wish I hadn't bought the book, since it definitely won't be a reread for me.
I liked Juliet and I liked Alec, but sometimes things were a bit too sickly sweet and they were too melodramatic. It tested my patience at times. And while they were on the extreme of being nice, sweet, understanding, etc., the villains in this novel were the other extreme, and some things they did didn't make sense at all.
I also found the subplot FULL of holes, which I don't really feel like detailing, since I would have to put them in spoiler brackets and barely anyone would then read it. Needless to say, while it started off decently, it quickly seemed to spiral, things didn't make sense at all, I still have several questions about how things went down and certain pieces that just don't fit.
(Written January 11, 2016)
It wasn't a bad book and I would definitely read Manda Collins again, but I wish I hadn't bought the book, since it definitely won't be a reread for me.
I liked Juliet and I liked Alec, but sometimes things were a bit too sickly sweet and they were too melodramatic. It tested my patience at times. And while they were on the extreme of being nice, sweet, understanding, etc., the villains in this novel were the other extreme, and some things they did didn't make sense at all.
I also found the subplot FULL of holes, which I don't really feel like detailing, since I would have to put them in spoiler brackets and barely anyone would then read it. Needless to say, while it started off decently, it quickly seemed to spiral, things didn't make sense at all, I still have several questions about how things went down and certain pieces that just don't fit.
(Written January 11, 2016)
December 12, 2014
*** Another 4 Stars Reading from Manda Collins ***
This book is about Miss Juliet Shelby and Lord Deveril, The most eligible bachelor in ton - story.
Lord Deveril has everything that gentlemen dreams to have. The looks, wealthy, fame - you name it !
While Miss Shelby, even she has pretty face, but she's not as perfect as any other girls in ton, cuz she's limp.
Fate then bring these two people together in unpredictable-sweet-way.
What I like the most about this story is the way Lord Deveril help Juliet in some act, always put Juliet needs above everything in the most gentleman way without even realize that what he did actually is Love ....
There's still mysteries and suspense in this book, but not as good as in the first book, but overall...I really LIKE this book.
And Lord Deveril devoted love is worth melt for !!
Can't wait to read about Lady Madeline and Lord Monteith on the next book !
October 14, 2012
This is an interesting mix of old and new tropes. Old-heroine with some sort of physical disability. Generally it's something to do with a leg, something that means that the heroine becomes a wallflower because she can't dance. The same is true for Lady Julia Shelby. She is one of three female cousins whose mothers were known as the Three Swans. An unkind debutante has nicknamed our heroines the Ugly Ducklings. In the first story, [name?] stole the dance card of said debutante and used it to dance with the man of her dreams. Once she married the duke, she passed the card on to Julia.
Julia is hiding a secret. Major props to the hero for identifying what the secret was and not caring about it.
Julia is hiding a secret. Major props to the hero for identifying what the secret was and not caring about it.
August 11, 2012
This is 4+ stars for me......I liked it better than the first book, but didn't quite love it, primarily due to the ending. I started out just loving everything about it. I loved both Alec and Juliet and thought their romance was absolutely charming. They were the perfect match for each other. I loved the interactions with the other "Ducklings". The ending was a bit of a let down. Not only was it sad that Annie ended up betraying a caring Juliet,the entire scenario was silly and unbelievable and came completely out of left field. But it was still a great book that I enjoyed reading, and of course,I plan on finishing the series.
August 4, 2012
Much more enjoyable that #1 Ugly Ducklings!
September 20, 2012
After I gave the previous book in this series a try and found it disappointing, I had no plans to read another book by this author. Too many books, so little time! However, I was intrigued by the blurb and decided to give Collins another try and ended upenjoying every minute of this book. In fact, it made me glad that I had read the previous book since the two are actually fairly connected and I would definitely recommend reading them in order.
Really fun, simple romance with a great main couple (and a fairly evil mother too!)
Really fun, simple romance with a great main couple (and a fairly evil mother too!)
November 4, 2015
Horrible. It's a sappy, unrealistic and overly dramatic story. The characters are whiny, always misread what the other is saying, because of course they couldn't possibly mean anything positive, even though they think the other is a wonderful person... I could never connect with any of the characters or even remotely care what happened to them.
February 27, 2013
:Rolls Eyes: Ugh. So much wrong with this. I was so annoyed with the super secret, shaming accident that caused her limp. I felt like it was such a let down. I even said aloud, "That's it?!?" Very disappointing, especially when I was hoping it might save the book and make it better for me. It did not.
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