Redemption of a Rakehell
April Moran
Historical Romance
Is this rakehell truly beyond redemption?
Lucien, Earl of Ashcroft and the notorious leader of the Rakehells of Mayfair, indulged in all the vices that come with the title. But when his father gives him an ultimatum–marry a suitable woman and find a new vicar for one of their estates, Lucien’s carefree lifestyle is threatened.
Who better to assist with at least one of those tasks than the lovely Miss Charlotte Windsor? The orphaned daughter of the former vicar, Charlotte is a woman of strong opinions and determination. She’s also entirely too accomplished at innocently driving Lucien mad with desire. As the two work closely together to select a new vicar, their undeniable attraction paves the way to a scandalous situation that neither one expects.
Will the rake’s heart be won? Or will Charlotte’s own heart be broken when their arrangement comes to an end?
Uncaged Review: This is the first book in The Rakehells of Mayfair Regency series. Lucien Ashcroft Westley, Earl of Ashcroft, didn’t have a care in the world. Even when his father demanded that he find a suitable bride, by sending Lucien to Ashcroft Manor, in Lincolnshire. Lucien’s main goal is to replace the vicar and his plan is to do this as soon as possible. Lucien comes up with a brilliant plan to ask the daughter of the late vicar, Miss Charlotte Windsor, for assistance in finding the right man for the job. As Lucien gets to know Charlotte though he can’t help but be attracted to her even though he can’t stand the idea of marrying anyone, least of all plain Charlotte, yet he also doesn’t want to leave her to Earnest Russell, the man perfect for the vicar or even his friends. Will Lucien be able to go home, forsaking his rakish ways, or fall even deeper for Charlotte despite her being wholly unsuitable for him anyway?
I was really excited to read this book by Ms. April Moran because, after reading a contemporary mafia enemy to romance tale of hers, I was really intrigued to see how she would write a Regency story and follow their rules. This book wasn’t a total disappointment in mores following most of the customs but managing to break a few too. It also pleased me that it didn’t get too smutty or scandalous, even though I don’t mind that type of story either, but the steamy parts helped progress the novel. The story was really engaging, the village was beautifully written, and the characters were fascinating even though Lucien acted a bit too modern to be a Regency rakehell, even though I enjoyed his lordly aristocratic way and liked him just the same. Charlotte, the feisty vicar’s daughter, was just a charming heroine that made me love the book and disregard Lucien’s behavior! I wouldn’t mind helping her out by trying to find another vicar and even felt a bit sorry for Earnest, even though he wasn’t truly a bad guy, but he deserved a nice woman too. I really do hope Ms. Moran will write more Regency stories, including finishing Simon and Wylder’s books, because I surely will read them!
Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst
4 stars
