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Weaver #3
French Leave
Lord Waverly, forced by bankruptcy and scandal into exile in France, encounters a young novice escaping from a convent. Lisette asks him to escort her to England, promising him that her English grandfather will reward him handsomely for her safe conveyance. But when he delivers the irrepressible Lisette as promised, they find her grandfather has died and Waverly must do the honorable thing. Regency Romance by Sheri Cobb South; originally published by Prinny World Press, the third of a trilogy preceded by The Weaver Takes a Wife and Brighton Honeymoon
232 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 17, 2014
3.5* rounded up.
I've grown distinctly enamoured with Sheri Cobb South's prose and gentle humour, as well as her action-driven plots. The fact that she manages to pull that off despite writing Regency romances is proof of her inventiveness.
Unlike the first two instalments of this series, there was somewhat more left to chance and happenstance, but as before, I adored that instead of simple misunderstandings the problems between H and h were sound, mainly practical and lots of activity included. No mere talking heads here.
I also adored the portrayal of Waverly in this novel and will leave it to new readers to discover his undeniably delicious character journey.
With this series South has established herself firmly as a favourite of mine.
I've grown distinctly enamoured with Sheri Cobb South's prose and gentle humour, as well as her action-driven plots. The fact that she manages to pull that off despite writing Regency romances is proof of her inventiveness.
Unlike the first two instalments of this series, there was somewhat more left to chance and happenstance, but as before, I adored that instead of simple misunderstandings the problems between H and h were sound, mainly practical and lots of activity included. No mere talking heads here.
I also adored the portrayal of Waverly in this novel and will leave it to new readers to discover his undeniably delicious character journey.
With this series South has established herself firmly as a favourite of mine.
August 29, 2012
Rating: It was okay... but you're not missing much (2 Stars)
This is my least favourite of Sheri Cobb South’s books so far. Not least of all because the main character in this book is the villain from the first Mr Brundy & Lady Helen book! And truly he hasn't really changed all that much by the end. And I admit the author almost lost my interest at the beginning when she had a young lady scaling the wall of her residence using her bed sheets only to be espied by a passing peer of the realm well and truly in his cups. Said member of the gentry then feels compelled to take her under his wing and escort her on her errand disguised as a young man. Smacks of a very familiar Georgette Heyer plot right? It’s basically lifted directly from the opening pages of ‘The Corinthian’. But although the plot does significantly deviate from then on it certainly wasn’t as enjoyable or interesting as the ‘original'. Maybe I’m being too harsh and it well may be a truly original idea on the author’s part – indeed she may never have read Heyer’s novel, or if she did was completely unaware she was recycling the scenario. But even were that the case this version lacks the charm of the original in spades.
But that’s not what I wanted to say about this book; it's the fourth Sheri Cobb South book I’ve read (the third in the Weaver series, but I wasn’t aware of that when I hired it from the Library) and by far my least favourite. I would recommend ‘The Weaver Takes A Wife’ (and indeed you should read that before trying this anyway as the characters in that and the sequel ‘Brighton Honeymoon’ reappear in this volume) and ‘Miss Darby’s Duenna’, but you can pass over this volume and ‘Brighton Honeymoon’ and not really miss much.
My main gripe with this book is that I didn’t like the main male character at all and although the heroine was endearing there wasn’t really much substance to her. I did enjoy her fashion faux pas in trying to capture her new husband’s attention, but that was about it. I was disappointed with the change in characterisation of Lady Helen – I find it very difficult to believe, after reading the first two books in the series (particularly the second one) that despite whatever she thought Ethan had done she would ever even consider the course of action she proposes (somewhat cavalierly, and with complete indifference to how it will affect her new friend’s welfare and happiness) in this volume. The new lady Helen is not the Lady Helen I remember, and liked.
Nor was the misunderstanding between her and Ethan really believable; the plausibility of the co-incidence which had Lady Helen initially witnessing the incident which sparks the misunderstanding was highly questionable. Add on top of that their subsequent cryptic conversations which only serve to deepen the misunderstandings and hurt and I just don’t buy it. At least one of them would’ve let slip something more specific which would’ve revealed to the other that they were speaking at cross-purposes and therefore quickly resolved the situation. But instead the author appears to have purposely constructed dialogue for them that is as ambiguous and misleading as possible in order to stretch the thin plot line and fill out the pages. I am disappointed and think perhaps it’s time to lay the Brundy family to rest and move onto new subject matter.
My favourite part of this entire book was the last page in the epilogue in which the scenario and dialogue are lifted almost directly from the beginning of ‘The Weaver Takes A Wife’, only enacted by different characters (taking the story delightfully full-circle). But I have no doubt that William, like his father will end up marrying ‘er.
Is there a Happy Ending?
Content Rating: Adult Themes
There is no foul language explicitly written, but in one instance you know by inference the word which the character speaks, but even so I don’t think it would be considered offensive – it is after all swearing a century ago and the vulgar vocabulary of that day is not nearly so shocking now.
There are numerous references made to infidelity, mistresses, opera dancers and the like, and one of the characters intends to rape a young lady but it doesn’t actually occur. Two of the main characters show (in my opinion) a particular lack of morals in considering it acceptable to commit adultery in order to exact revenge upon others (although the tryst doesn’t actually eventuate). So, on that basis I would have to say this book is not suitable for young or innocent readers.
There is no explicit sexual content, no bedroom scenes and only a few kisses described in very brief detail, but despite that there is very prevalent sexual theme to the book. No action, but plenty of thoughts related to it (whatever the motives).
Violence: There is a duel and a man is shot but not fatally wounded and the whole scene is dealt with so clinically and in such a detach manner that it’s over and dealt with before it really makes any impact at all.
Romance Rating: Sadly lacking
The hero *cough*villain*cough* is an unrepentant rake and the heroine a naïve chit who adores him, but despite this promising scenario there just wasn’t any zing to it. The outcome of the match was inevitable, but not nearly as entertaining or satisfying as I would’ve expected.
This is my least favourite of Sheri Cobb South’s books so far. Not least of all because the main character in this book is the villain from the first Mr Brundy & Lady Helen book! And truly he hasn't really changed all that much by the end. And I admit the author almost lost my interest at the beginning when she had a young lady scaling the wall of her residence using her bed sheets only to be espied by a passing peer of the realm well and truly in his cups. Said member of the gentry then feels compelled to take her under his wing and escort her on her errand disguised as a young man. Smacks of a very familiar Georgette Heyer plot right? It’s basically lifted directly from the opening pages of ‘The Corinthian’. But although the plot does significantly deviate from then on it certainly wasn’t as enjoyable or interesting as the ‘original'. Maybe I’m being too harsh and it well may be a truly original idea on the author’s part – indeed she may never have read Heyer’s novel, or if she did was completely unaware she was recycling the scenario. But even were that the case this version lacks the charm of the original in spades.
But that’s not what I wanted to say about this book; it's the fourth Sheri Cobb South book I’ve read (the third in the Weaver series, but I wasn’t aware of that when I hired it from the Library) and by far my least favourite. I would recommend ‘The Weaver Takes A Wife’ (and indeed you should read that before trying this anyway as the characters in that and the sequel ‘Brighton Honeymoon’ reappear in this volume) and ‘Miss Darby’s Duenna’, but you can pass over this volume and ‘Brighton Honeymoon’ and not really miss much.
My main gripe with this book is that I didn’t like the main male character at all and although the heroine was endearing there wasn’t really much substance to her. I did enjoy her fashion faux pas in trying to capture her new husband’s attention, but that was about it. I was disappointed with the change in characterisation of Lady Helen – I find it very difficult to believe, after reading the first two books in the series (particularly the second one) that despite whatever she thought Ethan had done she would ever even consider the course of action she proposes (somewhat cavalierly, and with complete indifference to how it will affect her new friend’s welfare and happiness) in this volume. The new lady Helen is not the Lady Helen I remember, and liked.
Nor was the misunderstanding between her and Ethan really believable; the plausibility of the co-incidence which had Lady Helen initially witnessing the incident which sparks the misunderstanding was highly questionable. Add on top of that their subsequent cryptic conversations which only serve to deepen the misunderstandings and hurt and I just don’t buy it. At least one of them would’ve let slip something more specific which would’ve revealed to the other that they were speaking at cross-purposes and therefore quickly resolved the situation. But instead the author appears to have purposely constructed dialogue for them that is as ambiguous and misleading as possible in order to stretch the thin plot line and fill out the pages. I am disappointed and think perhaps it’s time to lay the Brundy family to rest and move onto new subject matter.
My favourite part of this entire book was the last page in the epilogue in which the scenario and dialogue are lifted almost directly from the beginning of ‘The Weaver Takes A Wife’, only enacted by different characters (taking the story delightfully full-circle). But I have no doubt that William, like his father will end up marrying ‘er.
Is there a Happy Ending?
Content Rating: Adult Themes
There is no foul language explicitly written, but in one instance you know by inference the word which the character speaks, but even so I don’t think it would be considered offensive – it is after all swearing a century ago and the vulgar vocabulary of that day is not nearly so shocking now.
There are numerous references made to infidelity, mistresses, opera dancers and the like, and one of the characters intends to rape a young lady but it doesn’t actually occur. Two of the main characters show (in my opinion) a particular lack of morals in considering it acceptable to commit adultery in order to exact revenge upon others (although the tryst doesn’t actually eventuate). So, on that basis I would have to say this book is not suitable for young or innocent readers.
There is no explicit sexual content, no bedroom scenes and only a few kisses described in very brief detail, but despite that there is very prevalent sexual theme to the book. No action, but plenty of thoughts related to it (whatever the motives).
Violence: There is a duel and a man is shot but not fatally wounded and the whole scene is dealt with so clinically and in such a detach manner that it’s over and dealt with before it really makes any impact at all.
Romance Rating: Sadly lacking
The hero *cough*villain*cough* is an unrepentant rake and the heroine a naïve chit who adores him, but despite this promising scenario there just wasn’t any zing to it. The outcome of the match was inevitable, but not nearly as entertaining or satisfying as I would’ve expected.
January 18, 2019
Audiobook - Narrator: Noah Michael Lavine
A wonderful narration of the story although I did struggle with the heroine’s french accent. Often I didn’t realize she was speaking french until I’d rewound it a time or two so that problem wouldn’t have been there if I’d read rather than listened. However, I did get to re-enjoy this narrator’s amazing voice doing Ethan Brundy as a secondary character.
This wasn’t my favorite of the series at this point. Mostly because of the intent to “cheat” by the hero as well as the heroine in book 1, The Weaver Takes a Wife. While nothing actually happens between the two, it is not for lack of trying. This issue aside, I did enjoy the fact that the heroine kept this hero on his toes as well as the tense predicament between him and Ethan. Overall, it was enjoyable just not something I will re-listen to.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
A wonderful narration of the story although I did struggle with the heroine’s french accent. Often I didn’t realize she was speaking french until I’d rewound it a time or two so that problem wouldn’t have been there if I’d read rather than listened. However, I did get to re-enjoy this narrator’s amazing voice doing Ethan Brundy as a secondary character.
This wasn’t my favorite of the series at this point. Mostly because of the intent to “cheat” by the hero as well as the heroine in book 1, The Weaver Takes a Wife. While nothing actually happens between the two, it is not for lack of trying. This issue aside, I did enjoy the fact that the heroine kept this hero on his toes as well as the tense predicament between him and Ethan. Overall, it was enjoyable just not something I will re-listen to.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
August 15, 2021
Considerably more of a farce and low on romance. Unless, that is, you find it romantic when two of the main characters are actively pursuing an affair to spite their spouses?? Yuck.
May I just say that if you want to screw up your happy memories of the two previous books in this series, then by all means, read this. Nothing like being exposed to Lady Helen's brainless idiocy as well as lack of personal honor to totally end the series feeling disgusted. Also: surprise! The Cad's caddish behavior remains caddish. (Sorry for Ethan.)
May I just say that if you want to screw up your happy memories of the two previous books in this series, then by all means, read this. Nothing like being exposed to Lady Helen's brainless idiocy as well as lack of personal honor to totally end the series feeling disgusted. Also: surprise! The Cad's caddish behavior remains caddish. (Sorry for Ethan.)
October 6, 2017
OMG! I have to get this out first: I wanted to murder Helen. If this character were real, I would kill her dead.
Okay, now that I have vented I have to say that I love this series. Because of Mr. Ethan Brundy. He is one of the most wonderful, honorable, genuine character's who is the very definition of hero. It's now four years later since Brighton Honeymoon and Sir Ethan, now an M.P., and lady Helen have four children.
This couple in this book were Lord Waverly and Lisette. I still can't stand Lord Waverly, his is still a villain in his own story. His heroine, a young 17 year old French girl, was marginally better but not much depth to her. Lisette is an orphan banished to a convent because she balked at marrying her repulsive male cousin. She escapes the nunnery, she (literally) runs into Waverly, who has hoofed it to Paris to escape his plethora of creditors. She implores Waverly with a tale of a wealthy English paternal grandfather and a handsome reward for Waverly taking her this never met grandpa's estate. Upon arrival in England, Lisette and Waverly discover that the old general has died. While they are on the road, (Lisette, dressed as a boy), their carriage breaks down, they end up walking for lodgings, and the pair end up seeking assistance at the first house they come to, which is the home of Waverly's nemesis, sir Ethan Brundy.
Even Mr. Brundy's three year old twins, Charles and William, dislike Waverly on sight. These youngsters recognize an immoral rapscallion when they see one. Being the gracious man he is, Mr. Brundy reluctantly allows Waverly and Lisette to spend the night. From this point the story is both highly entertaining and frustrating. Ethan, concerned about impregnating his precious Helen again so following a difficult birth of their fourth child, seeks advice on birth control from a notorious courtesan. Of course Helen sees her husband leaving the trollop's establishment and jumps to the wrong conclusion that Ethan has taken a mistress.
Following a conversation of miscommunication, Helen decides to get even on her spouse by cuckolding him with his nemesis, Lord Waverly. A series of misadventures occur which thwarts Helen and Waverly's attempt to cheat on their spouses, they never do the deed, but not from lack of trying. I wanted to scream with rage that Helen would ever think that my beloved Mr. Brundy would ever think of taking a mistress...his concern was to spare his 'elen the pain of another childbirth.
Thankfully, Helen changes her mind when approaching Waverly's home, but not before Ethan sees them and gives chase. I adore Ethan with a passion and I was hoping that he would punch Waverly in the gut for good measure. I was o mad at Helen, that she would hurt her new young friend by considering sleeping with Lisette's new husband. This comedy of errors was fraught with anxiety but all turned out well. What really made this book a wonderful read was the wonderful epilogue, it was almost a mirror image of the first scene in the first Waever book.
I loved every word of this series and I hope that Ms. Cobb-South can be compelled to write more glimpses into the lives of the wonderful Brundy family.
Okay, now that I have vented I have to say that I love this series. Because of Mr. Ethan Brundy. He is one of the most wonderful, honorable, genuine character's who is the very definition of hero. It's now four years later since Brighton Honeymoon and Sir Ethan, now an M.P., and lady Helen have four children.
This couple in this book were Lord Waverly and Lisette. I still can't stand Lord Waverly, his is still a villain in his own story. His heroine, a young 17 year old French girl, was marginally better but not much depth to her. Lisette is an orphan banished to a convent because she balked at marrying her repulsive male cousin. She escapes the nunnery, she (literally) runs into Waverly, who has hoofed it to Paris to escape his plethora of creditors. She implores Waverly with a tale of a wealthy English paternal grandfather and a handsome reward for Waverly taking her this never met grandpa's estate. Upon arrival in England, Lisette and Waverly discover that the old general has died. While they are on the road, (Lisette, dressed as a boy), their carriage breaks down, they end up walking for lodgings, and the pair end up seeking assistance at the first house they come to, which is the home of Waverly's nemesis, sir Ethan Brundy.
Even Mr. Brundy's three year old twins, Charles and William, dislike Waverly on sight. These youngsters recognize an immoral rapscallion when they see one. Being the gracious man he is, Mr. Brundy reluctantly allows Waverly and Lisette to spend the night. From this point the story is both highly entertaining and frustrating. Ethan, concerned about impregnating his precious Helen again so following a difficult birth of their fourth child, seeks advice on birth control from a notorious courtesan. Of course Helen sees her husband leaving the trollop's establishment and jumps to the wrong conclusion that Ethan has taken a mistress.
Following a conversation of miscommunication, Helen decides to get even on her spouse by cuckolding him with his nemesis, Lord Waverly. A series of misadventures occur which thwarts Helen and Waverly's attempt to cheat on their spouses, they never do the deed, but not from lack of trying. I wanted to scream with rage that Helen would ever think that my beloved Mr. Brundy would ever think of taking a mistress...his concern was to spare his 'elen the pain of another childbirth.
Thankfully, Helen changes her mind when approaching Waverly's home, but not before Ethan sees them and gives chase. I adore Ethan with a passion and I was hoping that he would punch Waverly in the gut for good measure. I was o mad at Helen, that she would hurt her new young friend by considering sleeping with Lisette's new husband. This comedy of errors was fraught with anxiety but all turned out well. What really made this book a wonderful read was the wonderful epilogue, it was almost a mirror image of the first scene in the first Waever book.
I loved every word of this series and I hope that Ms. Cobb-South can be compelled to write more glimpses into the lives of the wonderful Brundy family.
August 18, 2024
Just can't go wrong with this author.
April 14, 2018
I wasn't sure what to expect when I read that Lord Waverly--a villain in my eyes would be the hero I would have to wish a HEA. Paired with a young, French nun? Pish-posh! No way Jose!
Lord Waverly, who is in self appointed exhile in France is still as drawl, arrogant, and as infuriating as ever. But there's something different about him...Could it be a wee soft spot is forming despite his best efforts? The character development that Sheri weaves (no pun intended) from bad guy to good guy was similar to Helen's in The Weaver Takes a Wife. It was slow, believable and made you root for a person who was previously really unlikable.
Lissett, our French nun who is the total opposite of Waverly. Open, unassuming, sweet and rather innocent. Her backstory is unfortunately typical for women during this time period. She had a naivety about her that was at times annoying yet enduring. She was eager to please, eager to catch the eye (and love) of a man who has sworn that their marriage will be one of convenience. Yet she is determined to have more.
Ethan and Helen are prevalent in this story as well, a fact that made me smile--for the most part. We get an update on their little family. Both sets of couples have issues that are intertwined within the plot so I dare not go any further but suffice to say, I was ready to pull my hair out at times! However, all in all, I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed it more than Honeymoon in Brighton.
Narration was great. Really enjoyable.
4 stars!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Lord Waverly, who is in self appointed exhile in France is still as drawl, arrogant, and as infuriating as ever. But there's something different about him...Could it be a wee soft spot is forming despite his best efforts? The character development that Sheri weaves (no pun intended) from bad guy to good guy was similar to Helen's in The Weaver Takes a Wife. It was slow, believable and made you root for a person who was previously really unlikable.
Lissett, our French nun who is the total opposite of Waverly. Open, unassuming, sweet and rather innocent. Her backstory is unfortunately typical for women during this time period. She had a naivety about her that was at times annoying yet enduring. She was eager to please, eager to catch the eye (and love) of a man who has sworn that their marriage will be one of convenience. Yet she is determined to have more.
Ethan and Helen are prevalent in this story as well, a fact that made me smile--for the most part. We get an update on their little family. Both sets of couples have issues that are intertwined within the plot so I dare not go any further but suffice to say, I was ready to pull my hair out at times! However, all in all, I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed it more than Honeymoon in Brighton.
Narration was great. Really enjoyable.
4 stars!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 22, 2021
This book was really lovely. It's been a while since I've read it, but one of the better reformed rake/ingenue stories I've read in a while. I'll definitely revisit it.
August 30, 2013
This story was really cute! :)
I'm really glad that Lord Waverly was given a chance to redeem himself in this book! And he did a good job of it. The part at the end when he's telling Lisette that she challenged him to put the welfare of others before his self was really sweet!
Lisette reminded me of Catherine Moorland, from Northanger Abbey! :D She was so adorable and she made me smile a lot. :)
As in Brighton Honeymoon, I really liked that the Brundy's were still a major part of the story! :D I enjoyed watching them work through their problems and have a closer relationship because of it. (It was a good example that misunderstandings should be a means of working together and growing stronger, not a reason to give up!)
William Brundy was so adorable! (The reference to book one at the end was brilliant! =D)
It's not a surprise by now that thone of my favorite characters was one who was barely in the story at all- the innkeeper at the waterfront inn towards the end of the story! :) (It's a mystery to me why I get so attached to the most random of characters!)
The Weaver Takes a Wife will always be my favorite in this series, but I thoroughly enjoyed each book for it's own unique qualities and characters, and will continue to look back through these books in the future for some great laughs!
I'm really glad that Lord Waverly was given a chance to redeem himself in this book! And he did a good job of it. The part at the end when he's telling Lisette that she challenged him to put the welfare of others before his self was really sweet!
Lisette reminded me of Catherine Moorland, from Northanger Abbey! :D She was so adorable and she made me smile a lot. :)
As in Brighton Honeymoon, I really liked that the Brundy's were still a major part of the story! :D I enjoyed watching them work through their problems and have a closer relationship because of it. (It was a good example that misunderstandings should be a means of working together and growing stronger, not a reason to give up!)
William Brundy was so adorable! (The reference to book one at the end was brilliant! =D)
It's not a surprise by now that thone of my favorite characters was one who was barely in the story at all- the innkeeper at the waterfront inn towards the end of the story! :) (It's a mystery to me why I get so attached to the most random of characters!)
The Weaver Takes a Wife will always be my favorite in this series, but I thoroughly enjoyed each book for it's own unique qualities and characters, and will continue to look back through these books in the future for some great laughs!
March 21, 2018
Oh the Symmetry - Book 3
This is the third book in this exceptionally humorous series that starts with Ethan Brundy seeing a beautiful woman in the theatre and announcing that he's going to marry her. She's a Duke's daughter and he's a wealthy very common commoner. He's also one of the most endearing heroes, and triumphs over the dastardly Earl of Waverly. In this third volume, we see the Earl residing in France where he fled after his fiasco with Mr. Brundy .
The Earl attempts one good deed which causes him to return to England. Who should he become involved with again, but Mr. and now Mrs. Brundy who are not that glad to see him. How the Earl is redeemed and the multiple confusions resolved makes a delightful story indeed. But the very last line in the book is the most perfect, spectacular ending for a series that I have ever read and I have read a lot of books. It also is the perfect comeuppance for Wavery. A gem in every way.
I know each book can stand alone but please read them all in order to get the full effect.
This is the third book in this exceptionally humorous series that starts with Ethan Brundy seeing a beautiful woman in the theatre and announcing that he's going to marry her. She's a Duke's daughter and he's a wealthy very common commoner. He's also one of the most endearing heroes, and triumphs over the dastardly Earl of Waverly. In this third volume, we see the Earl residing in France where he fled after his fiasco with Mr. Brundy .
The Earl attempts one good deed which causes him to return to England. Who should he become involved with again, but Mr. and now Mrs. Brundy who are not that glad to see him. How the Earl is redeemed and the multiple confusions resolved makes a delightful story indeed. But the very last line in the book is the most perfect, spectacular ending for a series that I have ever read and I have read a lot of books. It also is the perfect comeuppance for Wavery. A gem in every way.
I know each book can stand alone but please read them all in order to get the full effect.
November 13, 2013
This book contains all the plot elements I can't stand. It borrows heavily from Georgette Heyer's canon. Lisette is very young and silly but she knows her own mind and she's strong-willed. She's very much like Leonie in These Old Shades and Waverly is modeled after Justin. Waverly does redeem himself in the end and I liked him better than Justin. In my opinion, though, the characters in this novel can not compare to Georgette Heyer's and if I were an author I would stay far away from copying the best in the business. The epilogue of this book is worth reading and made me laugh. I only picked this one up because I wanted to find out what happened to the Brundys. They featured into this novel more than I expected. If you want to know what happens to them without reading the book, leave a comment and I'll respond. If you liked These Old Shades, The Corinthian, Friday's Child, you will like this book almost as much.
August 7, 2017
What an utterly charming story
French Leave is a joy from the first page to the last.
Lord Waverly is living in Paris, self-exiled to escape his creditors. One drunken night, he spies a nun climbing over a wall to escape the convent. After hearing Lisette's story, he agrees (in his drunken state) to escort her to her grandfather in England.
The story is filled with humor and misunderstood conversation. Two people converse, each thinking they are discussing a different subject. I enjoy it and this author does it flawlessly. Georgette Heyer carried this off well in Bath Tangle, one of my favorite books.
11
French Leave is a joy from the first page to the last.
Lord Waverly is living in Paris, self-exiled to escape his creditors. One drunken night, he spies a nun climbing over a wall to escape the convent. After hearing Lisette's story, he agrees (in his drunken state) to escort her to her grandfather in England.
The story is filled with humor and misunderstood conversation. Two people converse, each thinking they are discussing a different subject. I enjoy it and this author does it flawlessly. Georgette Heyer carried this off well in Bath Tangle, one of my favorite books.
11
February 5, 2017
Love this series so much
I have to admit, it took me a while to read this third book because I hated Lord Waverly. But Sheri Cobb South has a magic that I shouldn't have doubted. This book was highly entertaining and I absolutely loved Lisette. Helen annoyed me but just because I love Ethan with a passion. All in all, this is a truly wonderful series and I highly recommend it to everyone :) and very clean too which I immensely appreciate!
I have to admit, it took me a while to read this third book because I hated Lord Waverly. But Sheri Cobb South has a magic that I shouldn't have doubted. This book was highly entertaining and I absolutely loved Lisette. Helen annoyed me but just because I love Ethan with a passion. All in all, this is a truly wonderful series and I highly recommend it to everyone :) and very clean too which I immensely appreciate!
June 7, 2018
Tribute to Heyer
Coming to the end of this brilliant Regency trilogy, I have to applaud the author for her truly unique take on the Regency trope. She created a mill owner hero that won your heart in part by vanquishing the evil rake who had designs on the glittering aristocratic heroine. But finding a way to redeem the rake in this gentle homage to Heyer was truly the icing on the cake. I have to admit when I started the story and found it features the dastardly but handsome Lord Waverly I was disappointed but only for as long as it took to introduce the adorable and spirited young girl who would turn him into her reluctant rescuer. From there the author skillfully wove threads of many of my favorite Heyer novels into an original and entertaining tale of adventure and redemption. And the ending may be my favorite Regency ending ever.
Coming to the end of this brilliant Regency trilogy, I have to applaud the author for her truly unique take on the Regency trope. She created a mill owner hero that won your heart in part by vanquishing the evil rake who had designs on the glittering aristocratic heroine. But finding a way to redeem the rake in this gentle homage to Heyer was truly the icing on the cake. I have to admit when I started the story and found it features the dastardly but handsome Lord Waverly I was disappointed but only for as long as it took to introduce the adorable and spirited young girl who would turn him into her reluctant rescuer. From there the author skillfully wove threads of many of my favorite Heyer novels into an original and entertaining tale of adventure and redemption. And the ending may be my favorite Regency ending ever.
March 1, 2018
I was afraid I wouldn't like this last installment in the Weaver trilogy. (The detestable Lord Waverly as the hero? My beloved Brundys facing marital troubles? GASP!) But to my relief, I enjoyed it immensely.
The plot hinges on a big (make that MASSIVE) misunderstanding between Sir Ethan and Lady Helen. Maddeningly vague conversations make each party believe they're discussing something entirely different. (Yes, I wanted to tear my hair out at a few of them!)
The author used this trope to weave her two storylines together and to subtly bring each character to a realization of what they truly loved and valued.
She even redeemed Lord Waverly! He slowly grew into the honor and compassion he never knew he had.
The plot hinges on a big (make that MASSIVE) misunderstanding between Sir Ethan and Lady Helen. Maddeningly vague conversations make each party believe they're discussing something entirely different. (Yes, I wanted to tear my hair out at a few of them!)
The author used this trope to weave her two storylines together and to subtly bring each character to a realization of what they truly loved and valued.
She even redeemed Lord Waverly! He slowly grew into the honor and compassion he never knew he had.
April 14, 2018
Lord Waverley is my favorite character in this book, he goes through a lot of growth during the book and it's very enjoyable to experience.
Lisette I alternated between liking and not liking. At times her naivete was charming and at others it seemed unbelievable and more like stupidity. Her time in the convent seemed overplayed it was like she had no exposure to life at all.
The romance between them was slow to develop and seemed more honest and believable than what I've read in most regency novels.
It's well written and links nicely to the other books in the series.
The character voices are well done and the delivery was smooth and well phrased.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
Lisette I alternated between liking and not liking. At times her naivete was charming and at others it seemed unbelievable and more like stupidity. Her time in the convent seemed overplayed it was like she had no exposure to life at all.
The romance between them was slow to develop and seemed more honest and believable than what I've read in most regency novels.
It's well written and links nicely to the other books in the series.
The character voices are well done and the delivery was smooth and well phrased.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and/or narrator and/or publisher and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
June 23, 2018
This wasn't my favorite of the series. I so enjoyed the first two. It was nice to see Lord Waverly rescue a girl and not take advantage of her. I liked Lissette just fine. For a 17-year-old girl, she was very bright. It kind of bothered me that Waverly married her telling her it would be in name only and they could each have affairs so long as there was no scandal involved.
I think it was a bit of a stretch for Ethan Brundy to come to the financial rescue of Lord Waverly.
I know that having Ethan meeting a woman on Green Street was used to create tension between Helen and himself, it just didn't make sense for me. I think he would have asked a doctor first.
I was happy with the ending though.
I think it was a bit of a stretch for Ethan Brundy to come to the financial rescue of Lord Waverly.
I know that having Ethan meeting a woman on Green Street was used to create tension between Helen and himself, it just didn't make sense for me. I think he would have asked a doctor first.
I was happy with the ending though.
October 23, 2017
First off, throughout the first few chapters, Lisette and her grandad's last name kept hopping from Colling to Ceiling and back again. As that interchanging of last names did not in anyway detract from this amazing story, all was ok.
What I like most about the Weaver trilogy, is that Ethan and 'elen are featured in all three at different stages of their marriage. And of course the last is the best. The time length of the epilogue was a bit much for me but when I see the end, I had to laugh.
So was it in the beginning; so was it in the End.
Well played Ms South, well played.
What I like most about the Weaver trilogy, is that Ethan and 'elen are featured in all three at different stages of their marriage. And of course the last is the best. The time length of the epilogue was a bit much for me but when I see the end, I had to laugh.
So was it in the beginning; so was it in the End.
Well played Ms South, well played.
May 21, 2018
A Regency..
This novel begins with a strange meeting between a Lord Waverly and the female lead, Lisette, who is in need of his assistance.
Waverly agrees to aid Lisette and they set out on their journey, however, along the way, they end up with carriage trouble, near his former "Friend" Ethan Brundy, and the story line quickly takes off from this point.
Overall, This was a well written historical tale filled with twists and a bit of humor.
Noah Michael Levine did well with the narration as usual.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
This novel begins with a strange meeting between a Lord Waverly and the female lead, Lisette, who is in need of his assistance.
Waverly agrees to aid Lisette and they set out on their journey, however, along the way, they end up with carriage trouble, near his former "Friend" Ethan Brundy, and the story line quickly takes off from this point.
Overall, This was a well written historical tale filled with twists and a bit of humor.
Noah Michael Levine did well with the narration as usual.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
April 9, 2021
Cute ending, semi-smarmy romance
Honestly, I think I actually really enjoyed this book just like the others in this series... It's just there was so much time spent obsessing over the age difference that I started to feel icky. Of course at the time, the age difference would have been no big deal... Wasn't Mr. Knightly 13 years older than Emma? And in the previous book, we had a marriage proposal between characters who literally could have been father and daughter. I do understand the bed for it as a plot point, but I guess I would have liked to see the gradual change of opinion be a little less so, if only for my comfort haha.
Honestly, I think I actually really enjoyed this book just like the others in this series... It's just there was so much time spent obsessing over the age difference that I started to feel icky. Of course at the time, the age difference would have been no big deal... Wasn't Mr. Knightly 13 years older than Emma? And in the previous book, we had a marriage proposal between characters who literally could have been father and daughter. I do understand the bed for it as a plot point, but I guess I would have liked to see the gradual change of opinion be a little less so, if only for my comfort haha.
September 8, 2022
I am not normally fond of big age gap and this one (15 years) was really big for my tastes.
Nonetheless I have loved Waverly a character since the first book in the series. He is so deliciously disenchanted, ironic, quick witted that I could not have skipped his story.
There is a lot to enjoy in this story : an h in disguise as a boy, a road (read see) trip, a rake turned knight in shining armour with a self deprecation tendency, duels, irated husbands to the rescue, a lot of double entendre.
It is funny, romantic, hilarious and - as a cherry on the table - continues the story of the couple from the first book giving us ample view on their married life.
Nonetheless I have loved Waverly a character since the first book in the series. He is so deliciously disenchanted, ironic, quick witted that I could not have skipped his story.
There is a lot to enjoy in this story : an h in disguise as a boy, a road (read see) trip, a rake turned knight in shining armour with a self deprecation tendency, duels, irated husbands to the rescue, a lot of double entendre.
It is funny, romantic, hilarious and - as a cherry on the table - continues the story of the couple from the first book giving us ample view on their married life.
April 10, 2019
2019 bk 116. I love Ethan Bundy. He doesn't appear until a 3rd of the way through the book, but this time we do get to see him a tad bit more. When his arch enemy and rival for Helen's heart encounters a run-a-way who doesn't want to be a nun and escorts her England, chance lands them at Ethan Bundy's home and he is the one who comes up with a solution. In the meantime, Helen is worried that the love has gone from their marriage through a series of mishaps. I enjoyed this one much better than the 2nd book in the series - and I liked that one.
October 24, 2021
3 stars. My least favorite in this series so far. I was actually interested to see how Cobb was going to redeem Lord Waverly and give him his own romance. It didn’t work unfortunately. He’s just such an unlikable guy and there were some plot things and choices that didn’t endear me to him. I did however like Lisette and thought she was lovely. The ending was good and I am always glad to see more of Helen and Ethan from book one. I cannot get enough of those two.
This wasn’t a hit for me but I do still really enjoy this series and I am excited to get to book four.
This wasn’t a hit for me but I do still really enjoy this series and I am excited to get to book four.
Read
November 22, 2023Overall review so far....
This book is the third of four. The first I thought was great fun. I liked the characters ( and you know that is of first importance). The second was fine, tho full of characters and I felt it got carried away with plot lines. This might be due to the fact I was fighting a cold and was not at my brainy best.
This book perked me up quite a bit. Albeit in the middle I found myself mentally screaming "argh you twit!" at the characters, the ending was excellent and I am now looking forward to the last book.
This book is the third of four. The first I thought was great fun. I liked the characters ( and you know that is of first importance). The second was fine, tho full of characters and I felt it got carried away with plot lines. This might be due to the fact I was fighting a cold and was not at my brainy best.
This book perked me up quite a bit. Albeit in the middle I found myself mentally screaming "argh you twit!" at the characters, the ending was excellent and I am now looking forward to the last book.
May 28, 2018
A Delight
A fitting end to a wonderful series weaving them into the narrative with an enjoyable side plot .
I love the trope of a rake redeemed (Devil in Winter) so Waverleys redemption at the hands of his admittedly very young wife was brilliant. I love the hero who takes his time in realising he always loved his wife . All well dobe.
And the epilogue. Brilliant .
I highly recommend this series. No explicit scenes but simmering attraction and deep feelings abound.
A fitting end to a wonderful series weaving them into the narrative with an enjoyable side plot .
I love the trope of a rake redeemed (Devil in Winter) so Waverleys redemption at the hands of his admittedly very young wife was brilliant. I love the hero who takes his time in realising he always loved his wife . All well dobe.
And the epilogue. Brilliant .
I highly recommend this series. No explicit scenes but simmering attraction and deep feelings abound.
March 3, 2021
Much better than the last one. I love that Lord Waverly gets the chance to redeem himself. I love Lisette. It’s a comedy errors, and I would have given it five stars except that Georgette Heyer did it first, and better. Even so, Ethan and Helen are wonderful, as always. The bad guys really get what’s coming to them, which is excellent. And, in spite of the serious nature of the story, it’s very funny and it all works in the end. The epilogue is worth the entire book.
April 21, 2024
This book had just as many funny moments as the first two, and I loved following the characters. I was especially excited to see Lord Waverly get his love story. But there was far too much of the miscommunication trope for my taste in all the stories happening. It put a huge damper on things for me, and as the story progressed it only got worse. I enjoyed the first two much more and I still want to give the fourth a shot. I'll just hope the characters actually talk to one another in that book.
April 19, 2024
Wherein we get to watch the author try to rehabilitate an unlikable supporting character into a romantic lead while simultaneously letting a perfectly good marriage flounder because the principles can't be bothered to have a five minute conversation. Serious let-down after the first two books in the series.
December 17, 2018
Waverly and Mr. Brundy are such a funny pair of heroes!
Sweet series with great characters!
Waverly is a rake and a villain, but I could not help falling in love with him wishing him a HEA!
Lisette is sweet and innocent and so deserving of love and friendship!
Good read!
Sweet series with great characters!
Waverly is a rake and a villain, but I could not help falling in love with him wishing him a HEA!
Lisette is sweet and innocent and so deserving of love and friendship!
Good read!
Read
May 25, 2019Can’t finish this one. I disliked Waverly in the first book, and I don’t like him any better in his own story. And the nun who’s name I can’t remember, is annoying as well. Perhaps it gets better once they reach England, but I’ll never know
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