A Love to Remember is book 7 in the Disgraced Lords series by Bronwen Evans although it can be read as a standalone. I've skipped around this series and have only read 4 books so far but I love these characters.

This is the story of Rose and Phillip. Rose was married at the age of 18 to her father's friend, the Duke of Roxborough. He was more than twice her age and to say she was glad when he died would be an understatement. The one good thing that came from that marriage was her son, Drake. She has no desire to remarry and is known to the ton as the Wicked Widow. The one man who could change her mind about marriage is her lover of two years and childhood friend, Phillip.

Phillip, the Earl of Cumberland, lives with a lot of guilt since his brother, Robert, died taking a sword that was meant for him. He blames himself for Robert's commission in the army and takes a vow to let the Earldom pass to his younger brother by never marrying or producing an heir. When Rose admits she wants more or their affair must end, he is torn. He wants to be with Rose but not in marriage. When Drake's life is threatened, will he realize that maybe he has been too hard on himself and that he indeed loves Rose? Or will it be too late?

I love this series and Bronwen Evan's writing. This is exactly what I've come to expect from the Libertine Scholars and I love devouring their stories. I say devour because so far I have read them all in one sitting. I look forward to reading the rest of this series and I might even re-read them all in order one day.

Not your typical Historical Romance

We have here a strong independent and wealthy widow with a son she adores and an Earl who never wanted to be earl, ridden from grief and guilt.

Rose had been wed to an old Duke and is now the Duchess, free of the Duke, content with her life she is doing what pleases her. She is set on never marrying again, there is no need for her. Her late husband left her enough money and she is taking some lovers, keeping those intent on marrying her at bay. Her anchor is her little son. But one day she is reunited with the man she used to love as a teen, Philip, and that is the beginning of an affair for both of them. Rose considers for the first time her feelings for him, but is her reputation her ruin for a future with him? Philip on the other hand promised his dead brother to be level-headed and responsible as the earl, fulfilling his duty to his family and his dead brother. He did not share the secret promise with anyone. Rose gives him a purpose and joy which leads to more guilt. She is soothing his deepest wounds.

They settle in a convenient arrangement, but all things come to an end and soon they are pulled into a game far bigger than what you might think.

What I really liked are the characters, they are strong, independent, with flaws, but very loveable. Bronwen draws a picture of a woman who is at peace with herself, finally free of the shackles of an arranged marriage, but not broken. Enjoying her life as much as possible without completely disregarding the tons rules. She is smart enough to know exactly what her actions mean, taking what she craves and valuing what came out of her marriage. As you can already se, I am not into the spiritless virgins that drop at the heroes feet after first seeing him. Rose is a grownup who can analyze a situation and emotions. And the hero has a troubled past, avoiding one of the tons most important rules, but fully aware of his duty for his family. He changes from his young self to also a grownup.

And finally we have a great story. It starts off with a love affair and soon becomes a portrait of emotions. And then there comes something entirely else (I can’t say more or I would spoil the read). But the story got me by surprise and I truly enjoyed where the author took us. Read the book in one go and it won’t be my last book from this author.

The writing is solid. Good dialog. While the basic storyline has been followed before (unexpected heir with a guilt complex + widow who swears not to marry again) it is nicely told. I especially liked the scenes involving the children - Rose's son Drake and his friend Henry. Rose is aware her son's guardian could make life very difficult for her. Philip's guilt-complex and Rose's determination to never re-marry did get a bit old, though.

Rose is known as the Wicked Widow because she has chosen not to remarry after the death of her elderly husband and is not afraid to exercise her freedom. Phillip is guilt ridden over the death of his older brother and now has to deal with taking over as earl. They have been lovers for two years and are happy with their relationship. As an earl, Phillip is expected to marry and produce a male heir but he has no desire to do this. Will he decide to marry Rose? What will happen when Rose and her son, Drake, are threatened by an unknown person at a house party?

This book is full of steamy romance and suspense. The characters are very well developed. I really like Rose and just wanted to shake some sense into Phillip at some points. All of the secondary characters added to the story and made me want to go back and read all of the books in this series. The descriptions of places and people throughout the book created vivid images. I enjoyed the writing style and the alternating POVs. The plot twists and turns caught me off guard which is unusual and appreciated. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a steamy suspense filled romance.

Thank you to Random House Loveswept and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. I have voluntarily provided an honest review.

"A Love To Remember" is a book about Rose, a widow who has a long list of lovers since. She never commits to anything with her lovers and plans to stay away from marriage. Phillip is dealing with the loss of his older brother and becomes the Earl of Cumberland. He feels deep regret over the loss of his brother and like Rose, he doesn't plan on getting married. This book does a good job dealing with loss, grief, and ultimately love. Rose is a modern and great character. She is also complex and a layered character. Phillip was also a joy to read as well.

What a wonderful story of two hearts that need each other and a chance of love. Philip, the Earl of Cumberland, has earned the title at the death of his older brother. He vows never to marry and focus on making the estate and his family secure. Duchess Rose Deverill vows to never marry again after her tortured marriage to a Duke. This is a suspenseful story filled with strong emotions and a powerful sense of longing that will not be denied. This book is part of a wonderful series but can be read alone. Bronson Evans is a master of making the characters come alive and you can feel their pain and triumphs. As the pages are quickly turned and the book comes to the end, you are eagerly looking for her next book to read!!

4☆

What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: supporting characters with their own books
Standalone
HEA

I look forward to reading more from Bronwen Evans.

Rose had a crush on Philip, her friend Portia's older brother as a child. Philip was the 2nd son of an earl. Philip who was troublesome and irresponsible. He blamed himself for his older brother Robert's death...Later, Rose and Philip became the talk of the Ton...
Touching, lovely historically romantic suspense! Philip, and the other disgraced lords, are enticing, characters; Rose, Portia and the other ladies are smart, strong and charming (as are their men). Thoroughly enjoyable.
Voluntarily read an ARC, through Netgalley and publisher, for honest review.

Great Historical Read! Rose was forced to marry an ageing Duke, however since his death she has been free to do as she pleases. Now that her son is getting older she will have to give up some of her freedom and become more respectable, will the only man she has ever loved just let her go? Fast paced read with plenty of drama, emotion and steam. The characters are amazing, I was hooked from beginning to end!

Philip, Lord Cumberland, has come to his title due to the death of his beloved brother, who died saving Philip's life in the war. The guilt he feels impacts his relationship with Rose, Dutchess Roxborough. Rose was married off to a man old enough to be her grandfather when she was still very young and she chooses to remain single after his death. Both parties struggle with their demons, will love be enough to bring them happiness?

Great storyline and very likeable characters made this book a very enjoyable read!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

A Love To Remember was the perfect romance to sweep me back in time to see love triumph even though Philip need a little kick in the arse. I thoroughly enjoyed Rose's character. She was delightful! Philip was a bit stubborn and definitely guilt-ridden over his brother's death. This story is full of romance, suspense and danger. I really enjoyed this book!

Philip Flagstaff has lived with overwhelming guilt since his older brother was killed saving his life at Waterloo. He does not plan to marry or have an heir to whom to pass the Cumberland title. Rose Deverill, the widowed Duchess of Roxborough, was sold in marriage to a man old enough to be her grandfather. The only truly good thing to come from the marriage was her son Drake. They have been involved with each other since Robert’s funeral. They love each other, but Philip is so eaten up by guilt that he refuses to consider marriage. Rose wants to find a way to convince Philip that his brother would not want him to give up his life, love and a chance for happiness. Her dilemma is how. There is danger lurking for Rose and Drake from an unexpected villain. Hopefully Philip will wake up before something or somebody takes Rose, and Drake, away from him.

A Love to Remember is a deeply emotional story. Rose and Philip are strong complex characters. They have been hurt and are, at least at the beginning of their story, adamantly opposed to marriage. You can’t help but want things to work out for them. They deserve a second chance to be happy. Drake is a delight. The plot is interesting and engaging. There is romance (of course), angst, twists and a surprise or two (including the villains). Enjoy this touching story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I voluntarily reviewed it and the comments are my own.

A Love to Remember
The Disgraced Lords #7
by Bronwen Evans
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🔥🔥🔥🔥

The Wicked Widow is what Rose Deverill is known as, sold to the Duke of Roxborough a man old enough to be her grandfather. She's content to live her life as she pleases. Thankfully she became a widow sooner than she expected and the only good thing from the marriage is her young son. The only man she ever truly loved is her best friends brother-Philip Flagstaff! Philip is the second son of the Earl of Cumberland and as such he enlists to fight in the war.
Robert being the caring brother followed him which got him killed, now Philip has to fight the demons caused by war and the overwhelming guilt of his brothers death.
He vows that the title will pass to his younger brother he will never marry and never will he give his heart to a woman!
Rose gave him what he needed at his brothers funeral but how can he let her go when she makes him feel complete and the demons in his heart subside.

This was absolutely a heart wrenching story it has everything you need, passion , excitement, intrigue and a villain you never expected and of course a hero that's swoon worthy and a heroine who has strength and courage no shrinking Rose! Both need each other to heal and the ultimate prize is each other but will Philip see beyond his guilt and accept what his heart has known all along, before he looses the only woman he has loved! Another awesome story by a great writer!!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and NetGalley for my honest unbiased opinion.

Book Seven in the Disgraced Lords and we find a disgruntled Earl, who is full of guilt and swears he will never have a family and a wealthy widow who having been married once to an old man wants nothing more than to have fun and put off any wife hunters.

Until, that is, they reconnect at his brother's funeral, now they may find each wants more.

A wonderful instalment in the series I can't wait for Ms Evans to write more.

I received an advanced copy from Netgalley and I voluntarily leave my own opinion

Rose is a headstrong, feisty, independent rebel. And, that is what I absolutely loved about her! She also had a sweet and compassionate side that endeared her to me even more. Philip is a grieving man who desperately needs the sensitivity, understanding and passion that Rose offers.

Rose and Philip are complex and interesting characters that you can't help but root for. The plot moves at a good pace, has lots of depth and is very engaging. Evans does a great job of making this second chance at love tale come alive for the reader.

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.

https://www.amazon.com/review/R2IY4ZZJNWHFVS/ref=cm_cr_srp_d_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2107252257

Intriguing and Enthralling Romance! This is my first story by Bronwen Evans and it definitely wont be my last. This story was filled with passion, love, grief, betrayal and danger. Incredibly well written, with well developed characters, that felt so real, and who's story captured and held my attention long after I had finished reading.
Passion, desire and grief brought Phillip and Rose together, but without love, how can their relationship survive? Time will tell, as danger and betrayal, just might be enough to prove that Love was there all along. This story will play with your emotions. You will be wrapped up into this story like no other. The romance sizzles, the suspense builds, and the ending is thoroughly satisfying. Loved this Story!
Received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and voluntarily wrote an honest review.

'A Love to Remember' by Bronwen Evans is Book Seven in "The Disgraced Lords" series. This is the story of Rose Deverill widow of Duke of Roxborough and Philip Flagstaff, The Earl of Cumberland.
Rose is Phillip's sister Portia best friends, so Rose has known Phillip since they were young. Rose has since become a Widow and even been kicked named “Wicked Widow” since she has taken several lovers since her husbands death. Rose also has a young son who she loves very much. Rose has sworn to never marry again, and that is one of the reason she encourages her reputation.
Phillip was the second son of The Earl of Cumberland. Phillip had decided to join the war where his
older brother, Robert follows him into the Battle of Waterloo. But his brother was killed there and now he has returned home to bury him. Phillip is feeling guilty for his brother's death because he feels it was his fault this brother joined to help protect him. Now at his brother's funeral he meets Rose again who is beautiful and caring, Phillip thinks to get lost in her to help ease some of the hurt and guilty feeling he has. Now two years later he and Rose are still sleeping together and they don't keep their relationship a secret. Rose is now 26 years old and her son is 5 years old and his guardian is Lord Kirkwood who was a friend of her husband and father. Lord Kirkwood seems to be easy going with Rose and allows her to act as she wants but she knows that sometime soon he will want to her make another marriage.
Rose has started to think that she would marry Phillip if he asked but when does a Lord marry their mistress and besides he has so much guilt for his brother's death still will he be able to ever move on? But trouble finds Rose and Phillip will try to protect her and her son.
Really exciting and enjoyable read!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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I absolutely loved this story! The guilt ridden Lord Philip and the Wicked Widow, Duchess Rose have been carrying on a long winded affair. The plot is filled with moments of heat, longing, and even humor, and the characters are fully formed and interesting human beings. These two people cannot continue the affair without repercussions from their peers, but they cannot seem to end it because neither can be without the other. Both state they do not wish to marry, but for their own reasons, it's not necessarily the truth. So, can anyone or anything cause them to change their minds? Are they destined for heartbreak? The plot engages the reader with further intrigue in a "who's the real villain" style puzzle that kept this reader enjoying the tale from start to finish without putting it down! I highly recommend this to readers of historical romance, especially those who like theirs a little sultry as well as mysterious.

I have always enjoyed Ms. Evans books, I think the only book that was not for me, was her last one. This one I did enjoy, just not my favorite, and for the period that we were reading on, I was kind of surprised of the heroine, she was pretty promiscuous, but hey it was a story and to each its own. So Rose is a widow now, after being married to an older gentleman she is determined to not ever get married again, the only good thing that came out of that marriage was her son Drake. She has an exclusive fling with her friend Philip. Now Philip has lost his brother who was the heir to the family name, and now he holds the title and he is determined not to ever marry and not to ever have a child, he feels responsible for his brothers death, because if it hadn't been for his brother following him to make sure he stayed alive since he was a screw up, and he jumped in front of him and took the bullet (or whatever they used back then). Of course, Rose changes her mind and wants more, and then chaos reigns, lies, betrayals, jealousies occur. Will the truth come out? Will they figure out that they love each other in time? Well my friends you need to read, I don't want to spoil for you.