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Her first marriage was an epic failure.

Lady Avalon Warwyck never did love her husband. Arrogant, selfish, and cruel, it’s a blessing when she’s widowed and left to raise her son all by herself. Finally, Avalon can live freely and do the work she loves: helping fallen women become businesswomen. She’s lived these past ten years with no desire to remarry―that is, until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town.

Can he convince her to take another chance at happily ever after?

Devan Farris―charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian―is reluctantly sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son. Devan wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he’s not one to trod on a woman’s independent nature and keen sense of convictions. But she’ll have nothing to do with vicar with a wild reputation―even though he’s never given his heart and body to another. If only he could find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside―a good, true soul looking for its other half. But how can he prove that he wants to love and care for her. . .until death do they part?

353 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 25, 2020

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About the author

Janna MacGregor

28 books1,143 followers
Janna MacGregor was born and raised in the bootheel of Missouri. She credits her darling mom for introducing her to the happily-ever-after world of romance novels. Janna writes stories where compelling and powerful heroines meet and fall in love with their equally matched heroes. She is the mother of triplets and lives in Kansas City with her very own dashing rogue, and two smug, but not surprisingly, perfect pugs. She loves to hear from readers.

Visit her at www.JannaMacGregor.com.
Twitter: @JannaMacGregor
Facebook: Janna MacGregor
Sign up for her newsletter at www.JannaMacGregor.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 418 reviews
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
2,918 reviews1 follower
April 12, 2021
This is a Historical Romance, and this is the 6 book in the cavensham heiresses series. I cannot say much without spoil it. I feel this book starts super slow, but it so moving fast and I loved the middle and ending so much. I won an acr copy of this book for a goodreads giveaway, but this review is 100% my own opinion. (*)
Profile Image for Chris  C - A Midlife Wife.
1,717 reviews369 followers
December 24, 2019
A sweet sexy story of a delightful naughty vicar and his strong love.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love the twist in this story right from the beginning. A naughty vicar is definitely a great addition to the spice factor of any story but then to make him a virgin too? Oh yes.

This story started out strong and the author kept it going throughout. I love so much about this story! The initial hatred of each other. The snark and general dislike that gradually switched to the warm and fuzzy feelings.

I did have a hard time with some spots of the insta-love moments. I know that we had the whole book to warm up to their mutual feelings. But sometimes it just felt off. Like I didn’t get the entire buy-in of their relationship, However, I do love both of the characters overall and they worked really well together. A perfect balance.

MacGregor did treat us to a story that was exciting, with some delicious naughty parts (that vicar was very well read!), and a delightful finish. Beautifully written in the Regency style, a true treat for the historical romance lover. I cannot wait to read her again!

Sweet and spicy!

* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/wild-wild-ra...
Profile Image for Stacey.
1,446 reviews1,137 followers
January 26, 2020
The second times the charm for our unlucky heroine…

When your confidence has been knocked, it’s hard to gain it back again. It’s amazing how quickly you start to doubt yourself and your abilities when someone attacks your core. That core could be the one thing you “thought” was your shining light. It could also be the one thing you are most leaves you the most vulnerable. Reading Wild, Wild Rake was like a revisit to my own vulnerabilities. I know what it’s like to have my shining light dimmed and my vulnerabilities exposed. I guess I just needed a reminder like Avalon did, that I am loved and admired by the people that count…family.

I really enjoyed reading Wild, Wild Rake but admit to struggling a little with parts of the story. Avalon’s history is not at all pleasant and at our first introduction, I was heartbroken with what she was living through. I even admit to disliking Devan for a wee while there even with his attempts to check on Avalon’s welfare. I know that the beauty of a romance is that we will eventually get to a happy place, but these initial horrors always leave me bereft that there is no hope.

Geez, it absolutely cracks me up that I can so easily forget that romance stories always leave me happy. I suffer every heartbreak, attack and humiliation like it’s the bloody end of the world. But, then, this is proof of a good story, in my opinion. Obviously, if I can forget so easily, the author has done a good job.

I absolutely loved the growth shown in both Avalon and Devan. Avalon needs to let the barriers down so people who are trying to help can do so without feeling the bite of her icy demeanour. Devan needs to be true to himself and fight for what he truly believes in. Both Devan and Avalon also needed to communicate their thoughts and feelings a little more, not just with each other, but their loved ones.

Wild, Wild Rake was surprisingly passionate and sexy. Yes, the title has wild and rake in it but, we’re talking about a Vicar. Wild and Rake are not the words I automatically think of attached to a Vicar, let alone passionate or sexy. I’m Catholic so it’s hard for me to even think a man of God in these ways. I even admit to trying to forget the church side of things and think of Devan as a very good man who likes to help people. (I’m such a shocker!!)

My favourite part of this story was definitely Devan’s devotion to Avalon’s happiness. While I appreciated this devotion, I was quickly becoming frustrated with Avalon’s doubts. Sure, I get where she was coming from and all the doubts she had, but it was OBVIOUS Devan loved her. I’m glad that neither of them gave up or even considered walking away.

If you’re looking for a good historical romance, where second time’s the charm for this unlucky heroine, I highly recommend giving Wild, Wild Rake a try. You will not be disappointed with the hero, he absolutely deserves the title of hero and wears his cape…I mean vestments, well.

Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
Profile Image for 🦉Maggie Whitworth.
3,242 reviews103 followers
February 8, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Passionate and intense, Janna never fails to give you all the feels.
I adore this book.

Devon has such a beautiful way with him , an elegance with his reasoning and understanding and he is unfailingly patient with Avalon.
He shows that a man of intelligence and wit can find a deep and meaningful love, at the same time as being a member of the Ton.
So many books show them as rough and ready , sex maniacs that are only out to see how many beds they can visit.
This was both refreshing and different.

Avalon is a damaged soul, badly treated at a young and impressionable age , by both her parents and husband.
She’s raising her family alone , helping her community and trying to help others in need too.
Meeting Devan is an eye opener for her, she believes he’s like all the rest.
Slowly she sees the man she falls in love with.
She’s a sensitive soul easily damaged with a hard as iron shell, but it starts to crack around the new vicar.

Beautiful chemistry and characters that enter your heart and linger , a wonderful book that has the perfect ending.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Profile Image for Tracey .
678 reviews47 followers
April 17, 2021
This is an entertaining, well-written, steamy, historical romance novel. It has likable, engaging characters, a tragic first marriage, a heart-warming romance, an adorable son, a strong bond between sisters, and a happily ever after ending. This is an excellent addition to Ms. MacGregor's outstanding Cavensham Heiresses series, and can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone. The series does not have to be read in order. I am looking forward to reading Paul and Daphne's story with great anticipation. I listened to the audio version of this novel, and the narrator, Mr. Tim Campbell, has a captivating voice and does an outstanding job depicting the voices and expressing the personalities of the characters.
Profile Image for Morgan Many Books.
214 reviews69 followers
February 10, 2021
Right, so I adored this. Like... adored it. I have been having a hard time with my PhD since the new year, and so I hovered on the 1st chapter of this for two weeks. Then I finally dived in this weekend and finished it, and wow. Just wow.

I will admit I have only listened to book 5 (Rogue Most Wanted) and couldn't handle Tim Campbell's particular blend of weird predatory voice for the lovable Will Cavensham or his weird quivery Northumberland-come-Borderland accent for Thea. Like, sometimes I can deal with Tim Campbell... that time? Nope, nope, and nope. NOPE!

ANYWAYS--sufficed to say, I was extremely ambivalent about this series and especially Avalon's book not matter how pretty the cover was. (Because #justiceforWill)

I am so glad I listened to the recs on this because, that's right: this book really is awesome.

A cultivated fake rake reputation? Naughty virgin vicar? The Taming of the Shrew vibes for Avalon? A lonely, sweet, fatherless child? 200 pages of tension--because, oh yeah, did I mention the naughty lothario vicar is actually a virgin so there ain't no sexy sexy until vow's are exchanged (not that I am opposed to premarital sex but omg is it refreshing to have a Hero want to wait)!?!?! Yeah. This book has everything I wanted and everything I needed. I have read several 'meh' books recently and I really, really needed something good. This was soooooooo good.

I did get some Grace Burrowes vibes with the main characters, because she has a tendency towards writing overly Perfect Men and overly Imperfect Women and Wild, Wild Rake was one of those types... SO I tried to block that particular thought. Note: yes, I do not like G.B.. After reading nine+ books of hers in a row I realized she writes the same story over and over and I have two super ranty reviews (my link text) to explain why I hate her particular blend of that writer's habit...if you care to know why getting G.B vibes did not bode well for my enjoyment of Wild, Wild Rake.

ANYWAYS, back to the book. I really, seriously enjoyed this. Devan Farris was wonderfully charming, but not in a way that alot of HR books do it where it is mentioned but not actually well demonstrated in the dialogue etc. You know what I mean? From the moment we meet Devan, Janna MacGregor is letting us know: this guy... he is impossible to resist adoring, fawning, and swooning over. I loved him and was giggling over him. I could practically FEEL his smile and his kind eyes looking at me, and Wa-wa-wee-waaaaa lock me in a cellar with him and let me be the little spoon while we huddle for warmth! Right (ANYWAYS)--Yet lurking very close to the surface is a well of vulnerability he is simply aching to show to someone (really, he is just expertly masking a very gentle and shy nature)--and I LOVED THAT. Avalon has exactly the opposite shell to Devan's. She is cool, aloof and deeply wounded from her parent's and late husband's treatment of her. And everything that happens in this book is meant to lead to each character's ridding themselves of those fronts. Nothing seemed misplaced, everything happened for a precise reason and it was *Chef's Kiss*.

I think my favourite moment in this book is when Devan and Avalon 'argue' (it isn't really an argument since I would say arguing with Devan is virtually impossible, because yes he really is that charming and affable)? Well, it was just a wonderfully human moment. Such a real argument. As a person who suffers from alot of what Avalon feels, I could immediately identify with the irrational doubt that leads to the momentary dispute between the main characters. How easy it is to bend that doubt and blame someone else for it. What made it even better? The argument was resolved almost immediately becaue Devan really is The Perfect Man. But not in a Grace Burrowes sort of way.

Now, it is clear to me Janna MacGregor has a lot to offer and I am going to read this series for real now. Her writing is well structured without being dry or passionless. She built tensions like a queen, she created well defined characters, and her period accuracy was actually pretty good. This was so lovely and heart-warming and lovely annnnnnd I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,409 reviews1,042 followers
April 25, 2020
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from St. Martin's Paperbacks in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.




I have to say that the more that I end up reading Janna MacGregor the more that I become even more impressed. I don't say that too often about regency historical authors anymore, but Janna MacGregor really wowed me in this book and honestly I LEAST expected it to happen to be honest. Especially with how my reading has been of late, I really thought that this would be a slow as snail read but I read this one in one sitting and just couldn't get enough of it. So what made this book so delicious? So many factors but I think what really did it for me was the characters overall.



Our story takes us with a heart breaking prologue, that has you fighting for the heroine. Lady Avalon Warwyck is married at the very beginning of the story, and is humiliated by her husband in front of his mistress and one of his friends sees this humiliation and ever since Avalon has tormented him so that he could never see such vulnerability from her ever again. But now her husband is dead and she has a son she is raising on her own. But her son's guardian is determined to interfere into how she raises her son and sends none other than the wild rake " Devan Farris" who is rumored to be wildly experience and a vicar of all things. When he settles in the same town as she is, she doesn't know what to make of him. But the more and more they interact, she feels something primal for a man she has never experienced and she soon sees more to Devan than the "rumored rake" ....she sees the tender, spiritually intune and kind man that makes her heart beat faster.



Wild Wild Rake was such a delightful suprise and I totally needed a book just like this to get me back into reading. I am not fully there, but this book definitely helped in so many ways. I was able to relax for a couple of hours with this glorious book and it was simply breathtaking in so many ways. Now at first I was a little bit worried with the angst that was "at first" present within the story. But as it progresssed, the angst softened into playful banter and sensual promise of what these two were building together. I just loved seeing the depths behind these characters. Devan and Avalon really shine in this book. We see both their strengths and vulnerabilities. We see their courage, their sense of honor and their vibrant passion. And I loved Avalon's son. He was so adorable and so in need of a strong father figure and a bit of a matchmaker.



I will say that this author keeps winning my heart the more that I read her books and I am not sure I ever want to stop reading her stories. She pens such beautiful heartwarming tales that wrap you up in a warm blanket. I will say that seeing a vicar for the hero is something I am really loving more in romance. I love seeing the spiritual side to a man's strength. And we see this in Devan. Now it doesn't override the story or even the character of Devan, but it is a part of who he is and I loved seeing that. And seeing a male virgin is always a delight. We just don't get enough of those in romance....and him waiting for the right woman to share a life with before becoming intimate with one *sigh* purely romantic in every way. This man is husband material for sure. And in all honesty I loved Devon more than the heroine, mostly because of how careful he is with Avalon. He understands her and is so patient with her (she has quite a bit of emotional baggage) and he doesn't overcome her, just accepts and loves her for who she is.



Overall I found Wild Wild Rake to be a stunning and heartwarmingly rich romance that extends its beauty to the reader in such delightful ways.
























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Profile Image for Barbara Rogers.
1,698 reviews198 followers
February 3, 2020
Series: The Cavensham Heiresses #6
Publication Date: 2/25/20
Number of Pages: 368
*** 3.5 Stars Rounded Up

I am so delighted to have finally gotten to know Devan Farris better. We’ve met him before, and frankly, I was confused by him. Was he a good guy or a – well – not bad guy but … Anyway, now we know. This is a well written, well-plotted story with very likable characters – some of whom we’ve met in other books. I even loved that the villain was duly punished!

Avalon and Devlin are prime examples of why you shouldn’t believe what you hear. Each has a reputation that doesn’t match the real person at all. In one case it was a carefully crafted reputation and in the other case, it was a reputation created by others to be hurtful. In the end, both are equally hurtful.

Devan is the gentlest, sweetest man you could meet and you would never know that from his terrible reputation – the Wicked Vicar. You know that there are alpha heroes and beta heroes – well – I’m thinking that Devan might come in as a gamma or delta hero. No, he isn’t a doormat, he isn’t a coward, he is just a very, very sweet and giving man who puts others before himself. He is the Bishop’s favorite vicar to move around to troubled parishes because he is so good at straightening them out. Everybody is charmed by him and he quickly becomes a cornerstone of whatever parish he is sent to. Except, when he is sent to Thistledown, the patroness doesn’t want him and blatantly asks him what it would take to make him go away.

Lady Avalon Pearce, Marchioness of Warwyck was forced into a marriage she didn’t want. Her husband was cruel, dismissive, and cold, but he gave her the greatest gift she’d ever gotten – her son, Thane. Then he had the good grace to die and leave her a widow. Though he still managed to mistreat her even from the grave, she was free of him and managed to build a good life for herself and Thane. Thistledown was hers. They were her people and she’d see to their welfare. They’d welcomed her when she had been abandoned by all who should have loved and protected her – and now she was doing all she could to assure their welfare. She doesn’t want the new vicar in her parish – he is too handsome, too charming, and she just knows he was sent by her son’s guardian to spy on her because he wants an excuse to take her son away. She’ll pay the vicar off, offer whatever she has to in order to get him to leave.

Since Devan has no intention of leaving – and he was sent by her son’s guardian – Lady Avalon is fighting a losing battle. Devan isn’t really spying, he refused to do that, but he is assessing Thane’s academic readiness, as well as acting as a tutor to Thane. All of that throws Devan and Avalon together more and more often. They have known each other for years and have bickered for years – now, that bickering turns to teasing and endearments. When push comes to shove, Avalon is the one to stand up and defend Devan when he needs it.

I loved how their relationship developed slowly over time – actually over all of the years they’ve known each other. Neither is what the other thought they were and it was a delight to see them come to realize that. I thought the book was a bit slow at times and it was easy to allow my attention to wander. I also got a little tired of Avalon’s back-and-forth and I thought Devan was a bit too soft and submissive, but I still thought it was an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Profile Image for Andrea.
1,086 reviews151 followers
December 7, 2019
Dedication:
For those who ever felt they didn't fit in or weren't welcomed, but forged ahead and created their own place in the world.


2.5 stars rounded up because it has main characters who actually talk openly and honestly about things and there was no stupid misunderstanding blown all out of proportion!!!!! I cannot even begin to say how happy that makes me. The focus was really on the characters' growth and the relationship between Avalon and Devan developed naturally and over time.

I initially didn't like our heroine very much. It wasn't that she was cold and reserved, she has her reasons, but the way she leapt to conclusions about our hero while always complaining about people who do just that did not really endear her to me in the beginning. But she grows a lot over the course of the book, and I really enjoyed her journey. In the end, she showed just how amazing she truly is, and I loved that even though it was terrifying for her she learned to trust and open up, and didn't shy away from awkward conversations.

The best part for me was our hero, Devan, though. He was kind, and sweet, and just loveable. In the beginning, I feared he and Avalon wouldn't really suit, but after all, there was so much open talking that I was convinced. They were a truly wonderful couple!

The only thing I didn't enjoy was the pacing. Avalon and Devan get married fairly quickly because of some drama, and after that there was a lot of drama that had nothing to do with their relationship. After I knew those two were happy, I honestly skimmed a bit because I couldn't care less about the side character whose lies and drama caused all the problems and resulted in a pistol-wielding madman coming out of nowhere to threaten everyone. I just don't like last-minute drama.

*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for TeriLyn.
1,369 reviews442 followers
December 23, 2019
**Wild, Wild Rake generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**

I went into this book having only read book one of The Cavensham Heiresses series and felt as though it was fine to read as a standalone. The book was a bit rough for me unfortunately. The story neither held my whole attention nor engaged me as it started out slow and never kept me connected. The hero was the brightest spot in the book for me while it took a little longer for me to connect with the heroine. The hero's compassion and understanding had me invested in him and the love he had to give. In historical romances I need really excellent story telling and while this was written well it just wasn't compelling for me. Some lines, word choices and scenes were a little cheesy for my taste. The story is overall sweet and easy to read.
Profile Image for Elodie’s Reading Corner.
2,519 reviews145 followers
December 7, 2019
Wild, Wild Rake
The Cavensham Heiresses Series #6
Janna MacGregor
https://www.facebook.com/JannaMacGregor/
Release date 02/25/2020
Publisher St Martin Paperback

Blurb :

Her first marriage was an epic fail.
Lady Avalon Warwyk never did love her husband. Arrogant, selfish, and cruel, it’s a blessing when she’s widowed and left to raise her son all by herself. Finally, Avalon can live freely and do the work she loves: helping fallen women become businesswomen. She’s lived these past ten years with no desire to remarry—that is, until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town.
Can he convince her to take another chance at happily ever after?
Devan Farris—charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian—is reluctantly sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son. Devan wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he’s not one to trod on a woman’s independent nature and keen sense of convictions. But she’ll have nothing to do with a vicar with a wild reputation—even though he’s never given his heart and body to another. If only he could find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside—a good, true soul looking for its other half. But how can prove that he wants to love and care for her. . .until death do they part?

My review :

When a lady’s heart reawakens in presence of a rakish vicar, can they hope for more than attraction...

I preordered this book immediately when it was proposed, even if I had reservations about Avalon, after all she was “portrayed as one of the villain” in Rogue Most wanted.
So it is there that resides Mrs Janna MacGregor’s talent, her characters are one sided ones, they are multi faced, and they are far more complex than what they appear to be.
In the previous book, she was called a greedy social climber, yet the end of it, presented in a different light, still I wondered if I would be able to like her.

And now, pffffff ....
What a rollercoaster ride of the sentiments it was, if I hadn’t worked today, I would have read it in one setting. While I do remember how I was upset at Avalon when she “jilted” William, and now I know how wrong I was, I forgot the mask people shows is not always who they are. The first chapter sets the pace and defines the future Avalon.
At first, I was unsure about Devan, he too misjudged Avalon on the hearsay, and in between hurt her too.
When they meet again, he provokes her at every turn, he angers her, yet in doing so, it brings sparkles back in her eyes.
In fact, they are perfect for one another, he challenges her, she unsettles him.
When Avalon was a victim of her circumstances, she tried to better herself and uses her own experience to help others around. Devan is manipulated by his kin, but it is willingly he follows the road drawn in from of him.
Why he has a long way coming ahead of him to win her trust as very few persons did stand for her in the past, the scars are still lingering and she needs only a spark to fire her doubts.
I loved they did not throw barbs all along the book, in fact once they passed the first enmity, they realized there was goodness in each other.
Their story of more a tale of healing than one of hostility as Devan is the right cure for Avalon’s heart and soul.

So be prepared to be swept of your feet while following Devan and Avalon in their moving quest as they will have to face their fears and uncertainties.
I can only give 5 stars but it deserves more.

I was granted an advance copy by the author and publisher St Martin Paperback through Netgalley and prior to it preordered my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.


https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Profile Image for eyes.2c.
2,946 reviews92 followers
February 18, 2020
Troubled times for a lady! __________ 3.5

A couple of tropes happening here, the enemy turned to lover and the unexpected virgin--with a twist. Avalon, Marchioness of Warwyk, was married at a young age to Richard Pearce, the Marquess of Warwyk. He was a cad and bully. Her parents had forced her into this marriage, well both of them actually. Warwyk despised her for that even though he was the architect of his own problem, whilst Avalon was merely her parents' pawn. Yet she is painted by society as a cold hearted woman who trapped her husband into marriage. For goodness sake, Warwyk lost his favorite property, Bumble Green to Avalon's father whilst playing cards. He chose that action. He could have refused to marry Avalon but he wanted the land. So he trapped both himself and Avalon. Talk about being too much of a coward to take responsibility for his own actions. Warwyk consummated the marriage and left. Avalon fell pregnant and only saw her husband once more at their London, whilst heavily pregnant, where he threatened her. When Warwyk threatens Avalon, Mary Bolen, her husband's mistress, steps in between them. Avalon walks away, never to stay in Warwyk London home again. She is forever grateful to Mary and that relationship forms an important background to Avalon's story.
Avalon, or Lady Warlock as she's been dubbed by the less than saintly vicar, Devan Farris and younger brother to Lord Larkton, gained the reputation of being a cold hearted woman who spent extravagantly. (What she was really doing was buying jewelry and other valuables that could be readily converted to cash should her husband ever leave her with nothing.) She was right to be worried.
From that moment Avalon begins to build a community for women fallen on hard times.
Ten years late Warwyk dies, leaving Larkton as the appointed guardian for her son Thane. Larkton is worried that Avalon might be funding her project to rehabilitate fallen women, and a foundling home, from her son's inheritance. He organizes for his brother to serve as the vicar of Thistledown, the Warwyk seat, to spy on Avalon.
The bones of a good story are here. Unfortunately it becomes complicated with too many coincidences. I'm still wondering about Devan as a rake? That just doesn't fly, given his position. What Vicar romps around ton parties and drinking hells with his mates without being censured?
For me the best part was the opening chapter when Avalon stands her ground and is spurned and reviled by Warwyk's friends, Devan amongst them. Avalon grows into a woman, dedicated to her worthwhile mission (and obviously from MacGregor's notes women and children have born the brunt of society's whims down through the ages), assisted by Mary Bolen which rounds the story nicely.
The storyline does become increasingly elaborate with the various threads crowding out the main plot.

A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
Profile Image for i_hype_romance.
1,136 reviews48 followers
February 28, 2022
The publisher and Netgalley provided me with an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.

Avalon has her choices taken away from her when she was seventeen. She was trapped in an emotionally cruel, bereft marriage without the support of friends or family. Her only comfort becomes her son. When her husband dies, she rejoices in the independence and freedom of her widowhood. She is determined to raise her son in the loving community she has built, and continue her charitable efforts.

Avalon is her son's guardian, but the purse strings to his fortune are held by one of her husband's former cronies. That crony wants to make sure she doesn't have her hands in the estate money, and dispatches his intrepid brother to investigate. Avalon has every reason to despise Devan Farris, as he witnessed her most humiliating moment.

But Avalon and Devan are more alike than they seem. They both have formidable intelligence, a stubborn streak a mile wide, and hide deep loneliness and the wish to belong to someone. Their efforts to take care of their community, she as the landholder and he as the new vicar, bring them closer together. Soon they are confidantes rather than sworn enemies.

One night, locked in a wine cellar, changes everything. But hidden foes, manipulative debutantes and their own doubts conspire to keep them from finding their HEA.

This was a wonderful installment in Janna MacGregor's Cavensham Heiresses series.
Profile Image for Jypsy .
1,524 reviews59 followers
February 29, 2020
Thank you St. Martins for an advanced copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wild, Wild Rake
The Cavensham Heiresses #6
By: Janna MacGregor


*REVIEW* ☆☆☆☆
I love Regency romance, but Wild, Wild Rake is actually my first Janna MacGregor novel. I was not disappointed, and I intend to read the entire series. In this story, Avalon is a widow(gladly because her husband was a horrible man whom she never loved) with a son. On her own, Avalon can live as she chooses, so she works helping women who have fallen in the eye's of society by making them into business woman. Avalon is content with no intention to ever marry again. One day, a man sent by her son's guardian shows up unexpectedly. Devan Farris is a vicar with a rakish reputation. Although sent to, essentially, spy on Avalon, Devan has no desire to intrude on her life. Avalon is a very independent strong willed woman, and there is no need of a man in Avalon's world, particularly one who allegedly misbehaves. Devan has a bad reputation, but he has actually never been with a woman. Avalon doesn't know this, however, so she sees Devan in the wrong light. Over time, Devan falls for Avalon, but how can he possibly prove the falseness of his misdeeds? Will Avalon believe his innocence? She wasn't looking for a husband, but Devan has opened her eyes to the possibility of love. There are obstacles to overcome, emotional walls to tear down and heartaches to be mended. That is, of course, if it's possible for Avalon and Devan to accomplish all of this and admit their true feelings. The story is highly enjoyable and entertaining. I was immediately hooked and didn't want to put this book down at all! I like the easy style and pace of the writing. Overall, this is a very agreeable Regency romance that I do recommend for historical fiction romance enthusiasts. You'll love it!
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
2,602 reviews383 followers
February 21, 2020
Wild, Wild Rake is the 6th book in Janna MacGregor's The Cavensham Heiresses series. I have not read any of the book from the series, and I still enjoyed this as a stand alone perfectly well. I WILL definitely go back and read the rest - I really enjoyed this regency period.

Lady Avalon Warwyck is a widow, and happily so as she was married to a nasty and cruel man, and was also raising her son Thane by herself. Avalon is an amazing heroine and helps fallen women become businesswomen.

Avalon crosses paths with the handsome vicar Devan Harris who has quite the reputation and was sent by her son's guardian to spy on Avalon. But Avalon is an independent, strong woman, who doesn’t need to rely on anyone and keeps her guard to prevent being hurt again.

As we get to know Avalon and Devon more, we realize that their attraction for each other is definitely one for the books! I highly enjoyed this swoony read and the amazing development of their story. Loved it!
Profile Image for Debby *BabyDee*.
1,355 reviews75 followers
December 1, 2019
I've become a fan now of Janna MacGregor and enjoyed this story immensely. The plot was great and the characters were good also. When I first started I wasn't sure whether I was going to like the book but it turned out to be quite quite nice.

I thank the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC for a fair and honest re iew. All opinions are mine.
Profile Image for Krystal.
1,251 reviews31 followers
January 14, 2020
Like the other novels in this series, this story completely stands alone. While there may be mention of characters found in prior novels, it is done in a way that enhances the readers' enjoyment of the current story without overshadowing it in any way.

Speaking only to this novel... this one was hard to stay invested in. For one thing, I found it hard to understand how Devan didn't come under fire from the Bishop long before he did. While his reputation was apparently a lie, he was supposedly well known for being a womanizer and a devilish rake. Tell me, what parish would condone a vicar with that kind of reputation proceeding him? How could the Bishop not have intervened for the good of the church? Instead, they waited until circumstances forced them to address the issue.

And then there was Avalon. She was..... something else altogether. Deeply hurt during her marriage, it was understandable why she had sworn off men, choosing instead to focus on raising her son. What wasn't understandable is why her son not only appeared to be coddled but spoke like a man instead of the child he was supposed to be. I also found it hard to believe that Avalon would essentially throw herself at Devan during her soiree knowing that he was sent there to spy on her. Regardless of how she felt, she didn't completely trust him (as was evidenced later on in the novel), so I cannot begin to fathom why she would risk giving him, and by extent his brother, ammunition against her. Also, I did not care for the fact that she used Devan's brother's perceived "threat" to pretend that she hadn't gone into those negotiations with him and the Bishop knowing exactly how it was going to end. She even alludes to as much during her discussions, but suddenly it was forced?

Now don't get me wrong, there were some lovely moments where these two slowly become friends, and even more moments when they wrestle for control of the situation, and/or purposely goad one another. There just weren't enough of these moments to overshadow all the others that made this one so hard to get into.

Overall, I am sure there are loads of people (fans of this series and fans of historical romance in general) that will enjoy this one more than I did. But I will definitely read more from this author (especially if they have to do with this family).

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Sarah.
142 reviews58 followers
November 24, 2019
I couldn’t wait for this book! It has one of my absolutely favorite tropes, the virgin hero! I really enjoyed this book. I loved both the hero and the heroine. I loved the friends to lovers. The only thing that would have made this book perfect is if the heroine had been more experienced.
Profile Image for Alison.
794 reviews6 followers
November 22, 2019
Wild, Wild Rake
The Cavensham Heiresses #6
Janna MacGregor
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lady Avalon Warwyck never really loved her husband and he was not her choice at all. Her parents made her marry him. He’s arrogant, selfish, cruel, and it’s nothing short of a blessing when she is widowed and left to raise her son Thane all by herself. She can finally live freely and do the work that she loves to do which is helping women become businesswomen that would not normally have that chance in life. She has lived her life in peace with no desire to marry for the last ten years until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town. 

Devan Farris is a charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian. He has been sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son, something he seems reluctant to do. He wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he doesn’t like to interfere with a woman’s independence. But she seems to want nothing to do with a vicar with a wild reputation even though he has never given his heart or body to another. All he wants is to find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside. He wants to show her that he is a good soul who is just looking for his other half to complete him. But how can he prove this to her. How can he prove that he wants her like he has never wanted another soul before? That he will love her until death do them part.

Janna MacGregor brings us a lovely tale of love that comes to two deserving people. These two main characters were just meant to be together. They have been through so much. Avalon had such a cold mean husband who seemed to delight in tormenting her. He hurt her in public in front of their peers and the ton without batting an eyelash. She in turn took it and held her head high even though it was killing her inside. Devan also comes from a well to do family, but as he is not the oldest he has become a vicar and his brother pushes him around and tells him what he will do and to what parish he will go. He goes because that is his only means of making money. So now he finds himself in love with Avalon and will do anything to win her love. This is where the story becomes sweet and you can only hope that Avalon will give him a chance. This is what makes the perfect enjoyable story in my book and I give this book a big thumbs up. Ms. MacGreggor you did a wonderful job and I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Niki (mustreadalltheromance).
1,174 reviews99 followers
March 14, 2020
3.5 stars rounded up.

Mr. Devan Farris is a vicar with a very rakish reputation, but what most don't know is that his wild ways are a carefully fabricated ruse to keep his meddling brother, the Earl of Larkton, at bay. Devan knows his brother means well with his constant attempts to set him up with lovely heiresses, but Devan longs for a loving match like their parents had and won't settle for less. Despite his frustrations with him, when the Earl asks Devan to transfer to a new parish to check up on his ward, the young Marquess of Warwyck and his mother, Lady Avalon, to ensure she is not spending her son's inheritance, Devan reluctantly agrees; Devan doesn't want to interfere, but he's always found himself unwittingly intrigued by Avalon and takes the opportunity to spend some time with her.

Lady Avalon Warwyck has thoroughly enjoyed independence in her widowhood after a terrible marriage forced on her by her parents. She may be lonely, but she's got her ten year old son and her charity work helping women who've fallen into unsavory professions establish themselves in business. She's never wanted a man's company, but that all begins to change with the arrival of the new vicar. At first, Avalon tries her best to get rid of the loathsome Devan, but soon enough he becomes an integral part of the community. Now it's up to Devan to show Avalon the good-hearted man he truly is beneath his reputation, and help her regain her own confidence.

Devan was adorable in his utter cluelessness about women. Avalon would take several steps forward, only to take great leaps back and while this did grow rather tiresome, especially with her consistent regression to doubting Devan, it was also understandable given her past experiences and how shattered her confidence was. This element also gave sweet Devan more opportunities to shine as he reassured her. However, Avalon was very eager to take on everyone else's problems as her own and at times it was almost like she looked for things to come between her and Devan, even after she supposedly loved him. I kept forgiving her and understanding her motivations, but she just kept on and on. Even with Devan doing everything perfectly and treating her so well, she kept finding reasons to doubt him anyway and seemed not to care if that would hurt him. She'd say hurtful things and fling accusations at him and then retract it and say she didn't mean it, which I can understand to an extent, but the number of times this happened got to be rather tedious. Devan carried this book and though I liked it, it didn't hold up to how much I loved its predecessor.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed this book and will look forward to more in this series and from this author.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Profile Image for iread.
787 reviews10 followers
November 14, 2019
Wild,Wild Rake is book 6 in the Cavensham Heiresses series by Janna MacGregor. I have to say I adored the characters in this book. Vicar Devan Farris is a wonderfully delicious hero. It is rare to find a romance that portrays a man of integrity and honor. Devan is all that and more. But his romance has anything but an easy start. In fact, this is more of an enemies to lovers trope. I struggled at first with Devan’s teasing manner towards the heroine- Avalon Warwyk. But as the story progressed, I began to see his caring nature. Devan has portrayed himself as a selfish rake. But he has a secret that proves him otherwise. Will Avalon believe him when she discovers the truth or will she forever see him as a lying rake? Bravo Ms MacGregor! I thought this story had an emotional depth that pulled me into its waves and threatened to drown me in its’ steamy scenes. I was given a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Sans.
858 reviews124 followers
March 15, 2020
Why did I stay with it, keep reading when it was so squicky and bad? I don’t know. I do know that I have never used the vomit emoji more than I did forcing updates of this book on unsuspecting friends.
Profile Image for Frankie.
988 reviews75 followers
February 26, 2020
Well, what can I say about this marvellous book, that hasn’t been said already? It’s a beautifully intense and emotional story with two complex and sensitive characters.
This is actually the first I have read by Janna Macgregor, I don’t know how her books have gone under my radar for as long as they have done, I love her emotional and enlightening writing which is richly textured and engaging, I will certainly be reading more from this fine author,
Devan wasn’t at all how I thought he would be, I know the book is all about a; Wild, Wild Rake, but to actually have a vicar in that role is a new one on me, he certainly makes you stop and go; ‘Oh, my!‘ But not so much in the ‘oh, my goodness he is soooo sexy‘ which he is, but more in an ‘aww, he is melting my heart with his tenderness‘. Devan being the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian, he has come in to keep an eye on the young widow. There was a moment when I saw him as a bit of a bad ‘un, I thought there was something not very nice about him, but that soon melted away to reveal that he is a genuinely good man who unfortunately has a very dark reputation for a vicar. Yes, he may now be a man of the cloth but he has a notorious reputation as a rake, as a rogue and Avalon wants nothing to do with him, after ridding herself of one foul, arrogant man of a husband she doesn’t want to become entangled with another.
Poor, Devan he doesn’t like the idea of spying on and interfering in this woman’s life, but he can’t deny that he is inexplicably drawn to her; like a moth to a flame. He senses there is something beneath her icy and proud exterior and it is her caring and kind inner self that he so desperately wants to know, but can he really chisel his way through the cemented wall she has built around herself to guard herself against men like him?
Avalon is a woman after my own heart, she wants to be independent, she wants the ability to care for herself and her son without outside interference. She wants to be able to provide for herself and not having to rely on others, but more than that she really wants to help those who are less fortunate or those who have fallen on hard times and that to me speaks of such a commendable, caring, kind and passionate woman. She is wonderful if guarded character, I also felt that in her thirst to be free and to be rid of her own personal demons, she has built this wall around herself that is almost impenetrable, she has locked off her heart, she hates to think of being helpless and she hates others coming in and taking everything she has away from her. At times I really wanted to weep for her, plus shout at her to give love a go. She is such a broken and lonely woman, she hasn’t had the best start in life, which is why she looks on Devan as the enemy she wants to hold him back.
Overall, this is a great second chance love story, full of pent up emotion, that will take the reader on a roller-coaster ride from page one right to the finale. Thoroughly entertaining and highly recommended!
Profile Image for Romance Schmomance (Malia) .
1,222 reviews101 followers
March 3, 2020
Historical romance is not a genre that I normally gravitate towards, but I made it a goal of mine to read more of them in 2020. And  Wild,Wild Rake [image error] kicked things off for me, this year. Rake (well not the tool to collect leaves) and vicar were fairly new terms to, so it was interesting to learn about what that actually entailed in this one.

With this being my first read by Janna, I was completely sucked in from the very beginning. She even had my heart breaking and about ready to break down and cry because of what Avalon was put through by her horrible husband. Ten years later and a widow, she definitely made the most of her life and of course, Devan was coming to shake things up. And I was here for every moment of it.

CHECK OUT THE REST OF MY REVIEW | HERE



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Profile Image for Diane Peterson.
1,105 reviews88 followers
February 24, 2020
4.5 stars. I truly and thoroughly enjoyed this Janna MacGregor book! I think it is the best of the series -- so far!

Our heroine, Lady Avalon Warwyk has survived a bad marriage. Upon the death of her husband she is left with a young son, a lot of money and her dignity, but also with a very damaged heart. She lives at the family's estate and devotes her time to her son, Thane, and a program to assist women in trouble.

Devan Farris, vicar and younger brother of Thane's guardian, is assigned to the parish to check on Avalon's activities. The previous interaction between Avalon and Devan was not pleasant so she was not happy to see him in her area. However, a friendship and attraction slowly grow.

My favorite part of the book is Devan. I love a good guy hero and Devan is just the ticket. He is friendly, kind and funny, besides being a handsome hunk. All is not what it seems when it comes to Devan. He was just the guy to break down Avalon's barriers and win her heart. This was a very good book and a pleasure to read.

ARC provided through Netgalley.
Profile Image for Sarah.
624 reviews
April 24, 2020
DNF. Too slow for me. I couldn’t feel any chemistry and trust me, I so wanted to. I’m dying to read a good vicar/widow romance but sadly this wasn’t it. More needed to be said on his feelings for her. We barely knew what devan was thinking so it didn’t help me feel connected to him at all. Swing and a miss for me.
Profile Image for Sharlene.
507 reviews
February 25, 2020
Wow, Janna MacGregor does it again. A fun, Historical Romance that pulls you in from page one and does not let you go. As delightful on the inside as is the gorgeous cover.
Profile Image for Melissa.
155 reviews27 followers
February 2, 2020
"Once a wild rake, always a wild rake." She pressed her lips to his "But you're mine."

Having been emotionally abused by her husband, Avalon builds her own life for herself by helping women who most people wouldn't give a second look due to their unsavory past. She vows that no man will ever control her again, especially one that has a reputation as a rake.


This story exceeded my expectations. Not only did at have a really strong main story, the action of the side characters really played into making an exceptional story. Just when I thought I knew what was happening, a delightful twist would occur. It was a fresh perspective on the "typical" historical romance.

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I really enjoyed the twist on the usual virgin trope.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press
455 reviews8 followers
December 1, 2019
I have become a huge fan of Janna MacGregor over the last couple of years. She writes some of the most romantic, sensual and sweet romance around! Wild, Wild Rake doesn't disappoint. Its a charming and emotional story. Devan and Avalon have appeared in other books...but this book is all theirs! We find out the truth of Avalon's first marriage. What turned her into Lady Warlock, as Devan likes to call her. We learn why he cultivates the title of rake.
Devan becomes the Parish Vicar when his brother Lord Larkton sends him to spy on Avalon. He's suspicious of where she's getting the money to support the charity she has formed to house former prostitutes and their children. The last thing he wants to do is get involved in the business of this prickly woman. But as he gets to know her he sees her for the caring and loving woman that she is. Avalon thinks Devan is a flirt and a rake of the worst kind, that he only cares about himself and having fun. She's hurt that all those years ago he nicknamed her Lady Warlock. She likes her life now and objects to having him in her life. But the chemistry between them grows as they get to know each other better. And believe me the chemistry is HOT! Wild, Wild Rake is a delightful regency romance that's not to be missed!
Profile Image for Cyndi.
2,415 reviews107 followers
December 19, 2019
Excellent Regency romance. Our hero starts out as quite the jerk. His brother is friends with our heroine's husband. A husband that goes past being a jerk and into cruel. He didn't want to marry her and always lets her know that he blames her because he had to make a deal with her parents.
After he impregnates her he introduces her to his mistress, who just gave birth to their son.
This is the kind of romance that we all love to read. A strong heroine and a redeemable rake.
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