When I first began writing book reviews, nearly 15 years ago, I was the g0-to gal for romance reviews in my area. I still have a soft spot in my heart for the genre and love to lose myself in a good, old-fashioned love story.
Sarah Maclean's book, "Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake," is one of those stories that you just delight in reading.
At twenty-eight years old, Lady Calpurnia “Callie” Hartwell has resigned herself to the fact that she’ll probably be a spinster for life. As her younger sister celebrates her upcoming nuptials, Callie decides that she needs a little excitement in her own life and decides to set out to experience things she has always been curious about. The type of things a proper lady would never do – like smoke a cheroot, drink whiskey in a pub, gamble in a gentleman’s club and most importantly of all – just one time be considered a beautiful, desirable lady. Is that asking too much? Callie makes a list and sets out to make her fantasies a reality.
Gabriel St. John is a notorious rake among London society; well know for his womanizing and scandalous ways. When he is surprised by a visit from Juliana, his previously unknown and now orphaned sister, Gabriel must quickly find a proper lady to influence and guide his new charge through the rigors of the ‘ton. The perfect choice is Calpurnia Hartwell. Is he in for a surprise when he finds out that the sweet demure Callie has a rowdy streak brewing inside her!
When Gabriel discovers Callie’s desire to experience the “wilder” side of life, he agrees to help her on her quest in exchange for her assistance with his sister. As the two swirl through the requisite social functions along with the thrilling adventures Callie desire, Gabriel finds himself falling for the exhilarating, sensual and suddenly beautiful lady that Callie has blossomed into.
Sarah Maclean’s debut novel, “Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake,” is a charming, lively and humorous peek into the private lives of Regency-era society. Filled with fascinating characters, exciting escapades and a healthy dose of passion, “Nine Rules…” is a treat for fans of well-written, very sensual romantic fiction.
Check out Sarah's lovely website, http://blog.macleanspace.com/index.html, for more information on her writing!
Thank you to Avon Books/Harper Collins for this review copy. I was not compensated for my opinion.
