Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Unwrapping a Guest Review by Connie Fischer of THE ROGUE TO RUIN, a Misadventures in Matchmaking novel by Vivienne Lorret

Greetings my darling readers, I know I’ve been remiss in providing you reviews of good reads this past year and I apologize. Life has a hold on me which does not allow me much reading time. I have tried to make up for that in publishing my own good reads for you and I hope you’ve given them a try. So to make up for my neglect, I will be offering up guest reviews for you enjoy. I hope to be back reviewing for you soon but in the meantime, I hope you’ll enjoy my dear friend, Connie Fischer’s reviews to guide you to good reads. Enjoy and Happy Reading!

I present to you a guest review of THE ROGUE TO RUIN, a Misadventures in Matchmaking novel by Vivienne Lorret, published July 30, 2019.


Blurb for THE ROGUE TO RUIN:

The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule: Never fall in love with a client, which shouldn't be a problem when one’s faking an engagement to the rogue across the street . . .

Ainsley Bourne needs the family business to succeed. But one obstacle stands in her way—Reed Sterling, the huge, handsome, former prize fighter and owner of the gaming hell across the street. His scandalous customers scare off all her marriage-minded patrons and since the devilish brute has no intention of relocating, she sets out to ruin his unsavory establishment. Yet when a vile suitor from her past reappears, Ainsley hastily claims an attachment to the first man who comes to mind… Mr. Sterling, to be exact.

Reed doesn’t know who is more surprised by Miss Bourne’s declaration. She clearly hates him, and he’d never admit their arguments simmer with unrequited attraction. Something about the pleading look in her eyes calls to Reed, and against his better judgment, he quickly plays the part of the besotted fiancĂ©.

Pretending to be in love requires a convincing charade. But with each tantalizing touch and every scandalous kiss, Ainsley starts to wonder if Reed was ever really the enemy at all.

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Connie’s Review:

St. James, London - 1825

Reed Sterling is the owner of Sterling’s a gaming hell. This morning he is met at the front door by Miss Ainsley Bourne, who lives across the street. She is expressing her disapproval as his business is so close to her home. The numerous carriages in the street and the late-night noise are huge irritants to her.

Reed had once been a prizefighter and made enough money to open his own business. His upbringing had been rough which is why he is so good at prizefighting.

Ainsley and her married sisters, Jacinda and Briar, run the Bourne Matrimonial Agency. In that capacity, they act as matchmakers, finding prospective spouses for their clients. The business had been started by their uncle, but he seems to have backed off from being too involved and leaving the work in the hands of his nieces. They are desperate for business to keep the agency afloat.

Ainsley had once been betrothed to Nigel Mitchem, a mean and cruel man. She finally got away from him and to her great relief he married another young woman.

Ainsley and Reed cross paths often and while they are snarky to each other, they are each secretly attracted to the other.

One day, Nigel, now a widower, presents himself at Ainsley's home and she is terrified of him. He starts to torment her until thankfully, Reed shows up and, hoping to get rid of the obnoxious man, they tell him they are engaged. Will Nigel leave her alone now?

Reed is smitten by Ainsley and he does what he can to court her, but she is stubborn and tends to push him away while secretly wanting him. With such different personalities, is there a chance for them to find their HEA?

This is a clever story with several plots going on at the same time. There is angst and humor which is a favorite combination for me. My favorite character is Cat. Yes, Cat is a cat and a cool one at that. I’m sure historical romance readers will enjoy this book.

Copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

THE ROGUE TO RUIN, a Misadventures in Matchmaking novel by Vivienne Lorret, Avon Books, available now in ebook, print, and audio at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobobooks

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