A long involved telling, but interesting and emotional. My sympathy immediately went to Lady Warwyk as she was abused and humiliated by her cruel husband as his friends looked on. Then those same friends turn up later as guardian and vicar, I had a hard time trusting or liking either brother. It waso a long road to reveal their true nature and even longer for me, or Avalon to trust them! Lol. This was a well written absorbing story that I enjoyed immensely..

What a sweet story. Avalon has been trapped in a loveless marriage. Her husband has a mistress whom he loves and with whom he has a child. After an ugly confrontation, witnessed by Devan Farris and his brother, Avalon returns to the estate where she awaits the birth of her child. Years later, Devan enters Avalon’s life again as the local vicar. He also tutors her son. Their story is sweet and slow.

Wild, Wild Rake by Janna MacGregor is a sweet read. The story develops quickly then simmers based on delightful lead characters and a large unique cast of supporting characters. At times it is heart breaking and others hear warming. A very independent heroine provides a strong baseline to the tale which wanders into other storylines but always comes back.

Avalon, Lady Warwyk, is unhappily married to a man she was forced to marry. Her husband isn't any happier with the marriage and insults his despised wife. at every opportunity. At the beginning of the story, she is shopping for layette items for her expected baby and accidently meets her husband's mistress - who's also expecting. Several months later, Lord Warwyk comes home with mistress and baby in tow and tells Avalon she is being sent elsewhere so his mistress can live with him. While this scene is playing out, two of her husband's friends walk in - The Earl of Larkton and his brother Gavin. Neither brother says anything to Warwyk about his disgusting actions. Gavin was friends with a man Avalon jilted to marry Warwyk, and he's called her "Lady Warlock" in public, despising her, ever since. and the name has stuck Gavin is also studying for the ministry. Strange behavior for a future minister let alone any decent person.. Avalon leaves and the story picks up 10 years later after Warwyk has died.. I started out really liking this book., as I got involved in the events and Avalon's situation. Unfortunately, I was disappointed when the book picked up the story 10 years after the initial exciting introduction. The Earl of Larkton has been made the guardian and trustee of Avalon's child. He is supposed to be a decent person but he never seems to sympathize with Avalon's situation in spite of the scene he witnessed. and what he must know of his friend's character. Gavin has suddenly turned into gentle and pious person, in a complete turnaround of his previous behavior. He now seems to feel sympathy for Avalon but continues to upset her by calling her "Lady Warlock" supposedly to tease her. I thought it was cruel and creepy. He's also is an outrageous flirt, supposedly to hide his virginal condition. Why should a pastor think he has to hide his virtue and how is it appropriate to his position? Evenually, Gavin's newly gentle behavior begins to win Avalon over but I didn't like him or his brother and thought Avalon was won over too easily.

I was invited to read this book by the publishers via Netgalley and I was excited to read more by Janna MacGregor because I had missed a few of her books in my reading and blogging hiatus. 

This book was okay for me it followed the set template within the historical romance genre and I enjoyed reading it to be honest but I felt that the book lacked in depth connections between the key characters which would have made me relate more to them or at least show me how they formed their relationship instead of Avalon saying how their relationship was formed. 

The relationship between Avalon and Devan, I did somewhat enjoyed although I wished that Avalon wasn't smitten by Devan so fast. I wanted her to like Devan slowly and come to respect him as an equal which did happen in the book but the inner monologue of Avalon showed a different case but then again I did understand, Devan is handsome.

In terms of plot, the book unfortunately was underwhelming. At first, I was intrigued because Avalon hated her husband and then she was widowed but as I was progressing through the plot of the book I realized there wasn't much interesting things going on and the action that was present was so ham-fisted that it seemed comical. 

To conclude, I felt like this book was a fun read albeit a non-impressive one and I have read better from the author. I'd still recommend this book if you are a fan of Janna and a fan of historical romance, just don't expect much that's all.

Who doesn't love a sexy, bad boy pastor? I am, however, always skeptical of any romance with a pastor as the hero. Especially when you factor in the time frame and level of intolerance and shabby treatment of women. I think this book hit all the right tones. Not overly pious, but still meaningful and kind.

Devan is a pastor, but he didn't necessarily start out wanting to be one. He wanted to be in the Army or Navy like his brothers, but agreed to join the clergy when he saw how much his brother was devastated by him wanting to join. The clergy, is a very good fit for Devan. But, I think, as part of a subtle rebellion against his brother he created a rakish persona to camoflauge his true nature.

Avalon was married to a man who didn't love her - and really treated her extremely badly. They were forced to marry, I guess. Avalon married him because her parents said she needed to. Her former husband married her to get a piece of property back that he had lost in a card game. Her former husband, was in love with a madame and did not want to give her up to marry Avalon. None of this warranted his treatment of Avalon.

Devan's brother was BFFs with Avalon's former husband (which again is something of a mystery as to why the hell he'd be friends with such an asshole, but I guess he was unaware of Avalon's side of things? It was a little confusing). Devan knew about it too - and had some history with Avalon where she broke off an engagement with his friend to marry said asshole. He even made up a nickname for Avalon that (when it started out at least) was pretty unkind.

This story picks up several years into Avalon's widowhood. Avalon is extremely dedicated to her charitable endeavors and has a young son to look out for. Devan's brother sends him to spy on Avalon and become the parish pastor. Given their history, Avalon doesn't exactly bring out the welcome mat. But Devan seems very focused on needling her at every turn.

I like a good rehabilitation of enemies story - and I like verbal sparring between the couple, especially when you can see they are both enjoying it. The only thing I took issue with, was the idea that Devan had been teasing Avalon for a long time and had always enjoyed it - whereas she had not. Teasing and sparring is all well and good, when both parties are invested in it. When it is one sided, it is bullying.

Stories like this had a lot of potential for slut-shaming. I think Janna MacGregor did a good job of navigating that mine field as well. Pointing out that for some it is a chosen profession - and there is nothing wrong with that (even if it is generally considered not socially acceptable) - but also pointing out the horrors that can go along with it when it is not your chosen profession and the dangers of it especially given the time period.

Overall, this is a fairly heavy story that is uplifted by the love between Avalon and Devan. It was hard to see Avalon doubt herself and the pain she had endured. It was also wonderful to see Devan acknowledge his role in some of the pain she experienced and grow to understand and support her through her healing process.

This book takes on some tough topics and handles them with grace and love.

I received an ARC of this story for free from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.

If you liked my review, please check out my blog at http://thisbookthatlife.com

Wild, Wild Rake
The Cavensham Heiresses #6
Janna MacGregor
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lady Avalon Warwyck never really loved her husband and he was not her choice at all. Her parents made her marry him. He’s arrogant, selfish, cruel, and it’s nothing short of a blessing when she is widowed and left to raise her son Thane all by herself. She can finally live freely and do the work that she loves to do which is helping women become businesswomen that would not normally have that chance in life. She has lived her life in peace with no desire to marry for the last ten years until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town. 

Devan Farris is a charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian. He has been sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son, something he seems reluctant to do. He wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he doesn’t like to interfere with a woman’s independence. But she seems to want nothing to do with a vicar with a wild reputation even though he has never given his heart or body to another. All he wants is to find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside. He wants to show her that he is a good soul who is just looking for his other half to complete him. But how can he prove this to her. How can he prove that he wants her like he has never wanted another soul before? That he will love her until death do them part.

Janna MacGregor brings us a lovely tale of love that comes to two deserving people. These two main characters were just meant to be together. They have been through so much. Avalon had such a cold mean husband who seemed to delight in tormenting her. He hurt her in public in front of their peers and the ton without batting an eyelash. She in turn took it and held her head high even though it was killing her inside. Devan also comes from a well to do family, but as he is not the oldest he has become a vicar and his brother pushes him around and tells him what he will do and to what parish he will go. He goes because that is his only means of making money. So now he finds himself in love with Avalon and will do anything to win her love. This is where the story becomes sweet and you can only hope that Avalon will give him a chance. This is what makes the perfect enjoyable story in my book and I give this book a big thumbs up. Ms. MacGreggor you did a wonderful job and I really enjoyed this book.

One of the secondary characters, Penelope, is someone that I'd like to shake some since into. I actually had to put the book in timeout for a few minutes to calm down. I love how both Avalon and Devan handles it though. I truly did enjoy reading, Wild, Wild Rake.

Avalon has been reviled for so long for marrying a marquess instead of William years ago, but the truth is far different. Her parents forced her into an unhappy marriage to a man who hated her, but died not long after they were wed. Now, ten years later she is raising their son and Devan is sent as the new vicar to spy on her. He realizes how wrong he has been about her and they fall in love.

Sweet romance and Avalon deserves happiness after what she has endured. Devan has a reputation as a rake, but there are secrets he holds as well.

Great addition to this series! Thanks to the publisher for a review copy via NetGalley.

Oh what a wonderful heart jerking read. This two have everything fighting them but a determined man and a forgiving woman finally make this work. A wonderful love story about two hearts that had given up on finding true love. Very enjoyable.

I really liked Avalon, the heroine. I also liked that she wasn't judgmental and cared about her husband's mistress. However, what didn't make sense to me was the mistress was a kind woman too, so her grief around the horrible husband's death didn't make sense to me especially since she saw first hand his cruelty to his wife, Avalon. There was a little bit of a fairy tale of the two half brothers being bffs which during that time would be highly improbable considering how deeply class mattered.

I didn't like the hero at all, he was cruel for no reason. He thinks Avalon jilted his friend but his friend is happily married to his real love. He grew up in the same world, he should understand how little choice women had in their own destiny.

This was well written with a nice change of pace with a virgin hero but the characters motivations and actions seemed contrived for me.

I love Janna MacGregor’s book. I’ve read them all.. so it is with surprise and disappointment that I find I did not like Wild, Wild Ride. In fact, I had to force myself to finish it. The writing was excellent, as usual, and the heroine, ‘Avalon, was strong and well drawn. The ‘hero’, however, was just plainly unlikeable. Totally unlikeable for me. He calls Avalon “Lady Warlock” which becomes a moniker that she never shakes, taunts her with this name for ten years (we are supposed to believe that he comes to mean it as a compliment because he recognizes her ‘strength’ but that does not ring true), he senses her vulnerabilities yet continues to taunt her after they re-meet, then lies to her (by omission) over and over again. And he’s a VICAR. No, this one just did not work for me.

Loved this book! It's historical, the vicar is a hot virgin and Lady Avalon's chance to find love again.
It took me a few chapters to adjust to the pacing and language of the book. But once I found my rhythm I found an appreciation for their witty banter.

In the beginning, Mr Devan Farris, vicar, is sent by his brother to spy on Lady Warwyck. Devan agrees to go, glad to help with her son young lord Thane to ensure he receives the necessary training and education. But his brother must tell her he wants the estate books reviewed. The last thing she wants is a man connected to her dead husband interfering with her charity work.

Thane tries to ruin them by locking them in the wine cellar overnight. Hoping that they will be forced to marry. He likes Devan and wants his mother to be happy.

This is a little bit of a slow burn but once they are married, it gets steamy!
4.5
ARC provided by NetGalley
#WildWildRake #NetGalley

This is a wonderful historical romance between a tragic widow and a innocent vicar. Avalon was in a cruel marriage when her husband died, leaving her alone with their son. As a marchioness, she finds her calling in helping young women in unfortunate circumstances. Devon is an innocent vicar sent to spy on her.

I loved how the sparks flew when Avalon and Devon were thrown together. They had a sweet romance develop, with neither knowing what to do or how to interact with the other. Additionally, the sub-plots were interesting and added depth to the story.

If you are a fan of the genre, you will love this book. Historical romance is not one of my favorite genres, however, the author is so talented that I have her on my must read authors' list. Her words seem to come alive on the page in a way that makes me feel like I am a part of the story rather than just words on a page.

ARC via Edelweiss & NetGalley (I got two copies from two sources)

Trope: Hot (Virgin) Priest
Unexpected Twist/Subplot: Wife befriends late's Husband's Mistress, and helps Women would want to get out of Prostitution in London by setting up charities and places to live in the Parish where she lives.

It was interesting to sees some different subplots in an HEA romance. Quick Read. Recommend.

I enjoyed this as a classic romance book. I have read romance novels since I was 12 when the ripped bodice type were in fashion. I found this one much more traditional, sweet, and respectful of the main female character. There is glove touching glove and the heat created sends their hearts aflutter. There is some final sex scenes, but nothing as detailed in other novels I've read. The main characters also wait until marriage to seal the deal. Overall, it was a fun story with a great HEA.

Another great book!!! I love anything Janna MacGregor writes! She never disappoints me. Her storytelling astounds me!! Can't wait for her next book!!

I enjoyed these characters very much! Both Avalon and Devan are beneficiaries of gossip and misinformation. Avalon has the reputation of a heartbreaker who married for title and money. That suits her widowhood as she never wants to risk her heart again to a man. Devan is a fourth son who wanted to go into the military but was steered to the Church instead. To his credit he is a caring minister who loves to flirt when he is not ministering. He relishes the exaggerated and flat-out invented stories of his wild rakish ways. His reputation and his declaration that only an heiress will do for a wife enables him to hold out for a marriage based on love like his parents had. This story is the sweet "rake" and the caring "ice queen" discarding their reputations to connect as themselves.

"It helps with your parish members, particularly the choir, if you can carry a tune.' He dipped his head lower, then placed his lips on a pulse of her neck. "Does it help me with you?

I will not lie-- I love hot priests. I realize that this seems like a very specific kink but in romancelandia, hot priests are (fairely) well-represented amongst the cannon of 'book boyfriends'. 'Wild, Wild Rake' offers another sexy priest that we can get behind.

However, despite how much I love hot priests, I wasn't impressed with the narrative or the choices Janna MacGregor made in order to bring the couple together. This novel offers some lovely feminist moments, such as the years-long friendship between the Marchioness of Warwyck and her husband's 'fancy piece'. Overall, 'Wild, Wild Rake' is a fine read but I can't promise that I will remember it when the next book comes out.

What a delightful book!! I really enjoyed the main male character to be different from the usual hero. I have always enjoyed this author's books!!