Eva de Courtney is a nineteen-year old debutante who, at the tail end of her first Season, learns of a plot hatched by Godric Fleming, Lord Visel, to kidnap her friend Drusilla, who recently married Eva’s brother Gabriel. To ensure Godric’s plan fails, Eva kidnaps him herself, with the help of her father’s servant James. While the abduction succeeds, Eva soon finds herself faced with the reality of the situation: by spending time alone with him, she has irreparably damaged her own reputation and that of her family. Godric, who is not as much of a villain as Eva would like to believe, insist they go to Gretna Green to get married and restore her reputation. They try to get to the border. And try. And try. And try again, while every possible (and barely plausible) misadventure occurs to slow them down.

First off, I have to say that this novel is a lot of fun. Yes, it is completely implausible. The action is over-the-top, the number of misadventures that occur on their journey is completely ridiculous. But that is part of the charm. Eva is a lively main character, and Godric is suitably charming and tortured. There are quite a few clichés, not least the fact that Eva hates dresses and stays or would rather breed horses than attend balls, but they don’t necessarily take away from the enjoyment of the book. The number of roadblocks thrown in their way by nature, other characters, and Eva and Godric themselves, is truly impressive. The conclusion is equally preposterous, but thoroughly satisfying. There is also quite a lot of sex, which is very different from a Georgette Heyer Regency romance, which is the only kind I have read so far. Eva’s stepmother is wonderfully refreshing in that she has explained to her stepdaughters how sex works, and that pleasure should be a part of it, as much for their future husbands as for themselves, so Eva is very sex-positive. There is also a hint that James is queer, which Eva seems supportive of, but it never goes anywhere.

This is part of the "Rebels of the ton" series, which I knew when I picked it up. From what I understood of the description, it is supposed to stand alone rather than be a sequel to the previous novel, but at times it felt more like a sequel because a lot of the friction between Eva and Godric relies on actions Godric posed in the previous book, and those remain vague throughout. I would have appreciated a few sentences recapping the previous book rather than vague references to Godric compromising Drusilla so she had to marry Gabriel. It would also have been useful to know why Godric hates Gabriel so much. I think I managed to piece it together, but I will not explain it here as part of it may constitute a spoiler.

It felt at many points in the book that it could have used more revisions because there were inconsistencies. Not terribly important ones, but still nagging details that didn’t fit from one chapter to the next. For example, one night in one fo he inns Eva and Gabriel stay at on their journey, Eva spies on Godric while he masturbates. The next morning, Eva knows from the way he taunts her that Godric knows she watched, but that night at the next inn Godric consciously thinks of keeping his clothes in bed so he doesn’t shock Eva with the sight of his body in case she accidentally walks in. Another time, Godric asks to see a map of the region and is told it will be brought to him in the morning, yet in the morning he remembers a smaller road from the map he looked at the night before. They are small inconsistencies, but they made me feel like the writer wasn’t paying as much attention as I was, which is frustrating.

Yet another winning book by Ms. Minerva Spencer. An extension from the original Outcast Series; and 2nd book from Rebels of the Ton, this is the story of Eva Courtney and Godric Fleming, heir to a dukedom, but currently considered a dastard for some of his callous actions to Gabriel Marlington, Eva’s brother. Godric has his reasons, very emotional, (will not reveal as it is a spoiler), however when he almost changes his mind, Eva has already ambushed him and from there their roller coaster adventure begins.

Ms. Spencer writes books with great witticisms, ingenuity and strong relatable characters and remains holistic to the era of her novel setting.

Eva, with good intentions abducts Godric to counter his plan to abduct her best friend Drusilla, who has recently married her brother Gabriel. A series of mishaps leads to both Eva and Godric being stranded at an inn. Of course by ton standards they are expected to marry, even though they are yet to be discovered, (due to Eva’s elaborate planning); however they are met with murderous thugs on the way.
Ms Spencer draws out each character however small their role may be; and she also always has some utterly forsaken misunderstood character who eventually redeem themselves. Such two roles are played by James, the stable hand and Eva’s confidant and the quirky Unfortunate Andrew robbed for his meager belongings and made to wear a dress by some miscreants. These touches is what makes reading the book interesting and not the same formulaic ton stories.

After a few misadventures, and Eva falling into Godric’s bed and refusing to marry him thereafter, finds herself almost Betrothed to not so pleasant Lord, who does not care for Eva’s spirit nor her upcoming stud farm, except of course for her considerable dowry.

Eventually, all ends well, with the signature Spencer twists. Eva marries Godric, once again due to the machinations of James and Andrew.

I’m a fan for well narrated books and this book definitely falls in the category. I always seem to expect more from Ms Spencer and she never lets me/her very strong critical readers down.

Outrageous, is a sure winner which many readers will enjoy.

Cheers

Loved, loved, loved this novel! I was so excited to receive an advanced copy of Outrageous thanks to NetGalley. I loved Notorious and couldn’t wait for the sequel. Outrageous picks up where Notorious left off. Eva de Courtney has kidnapped Godric Viesel and they are headed for Scotland. Along the way, there are a series of mishaps that change the dynamic of Eva and Godric’s relationship. I loved all of the characters and was pleased that their quirky personalities, once again, fit them so well. There was also just the right amount of character development in which Eva and Godric’s relationship was given the opportunity to grow. The plot moved along at an appropriate pace and had me laughing out almost ever chapter. Outrageous was a fun read that I devoured within 2 days. I can’t wait for the next rebel of the ton in this series!

What a delightful book. The very bad guy, Godric, is about to kidnap Eva’s brother when our plucky heroine turns the table and kidnaps him. It is a classic bad guy turned revealed to be a tortured good guy tale with a wonderfully clever proto-feminist woman. That said Ms. Spencer writes a rollicking tale with plenty of other plot twists and lovable secondary characters. My favorite is Andrew who shows up rather cluelessly in the middle of a robbery dressed in a skirt with a sort of blunderbuss. The tale has humor, sexy, sexy bits, and romance. Fans of Ms. Spencer will be able to revisit previous HEA folks however the book can easily be read as a standalone. I’ll be on the lookout for more in this entertaining series or by this author.

As I started reading this book I just knew I wasn't going to like Eva or Godric's story, and man was I wrong. Eva represents a young woman who doesn't fit in to society and as she tries to rewrite her story and take care of her family she puts herself in a position of having to bear the consequences. It's honestly easy to see how Godric falls for her immaturity because she's so genuine and doesn't hide herself away like many society women.

Godric is a new heir and carries with him so much trauma from the loss of his family, which he is not dealing with very well. This is the second book in this series from Minerva Spencer, but I don't think its necessary to read the first book. I totally forgot the specifics and didn't feel like I was missing anything. As this book progressed I remembered the previous story and how much I like the de Courtney family.

This is a must read for any regencry romance fans including those newly minted Bridgerton fans!

I received "Outrageous" from Netgalley and voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Minerva Spencer is amazing. Eva de Courtney, daughter of the Marquess of Exley kidnaps Godric Fleming, Earl of Visel. She believes by kidnapping him, she will prevent him kidnapping her sister in law . What ensues next is a series of events that teaches both these characters that it is possible to care about someone while being in a strenuous position.

This one wasn’t for me I’m afraid. I’m read other books of the authors and they are usually fun romances. This one fell flat for me. There was little interaction between the two main characters, and as for the constant ‘abductions’ they got somewhat repetitive. I don’t enjoy this one sorry.’

I was annoyed (at myself) that I didn't realize this was the second book in the series. I kept waiting for the author to explain and was annoyed she didn't. Overall I think it is a fairly fun little romance book, though I did get annoyed at the Era type things of "of course they knew that..." I didn't know and would have loved an explanation.

It can be such a bummer when a book that you are so excited for doesn't meet your expectations. Minerva Spencer has never disappointed me ... until now. I did not like the story, the romantic hero, or the interactions of practically any of the characters. Ultimately, this feel pretty flat and I think there are definitely better romance books out there that I would be a bit more likely to recommend.

Loved it! You almost always see opposite’s attract in romance. Not the case with this story. Godric and Eva are both head strong and compulsive. And when they are together the sparks fly! I do wish there would if been a little more detail into Godrics thoughts of what he was doing to Gabriel. But it overall didn’t effect the story. This is the second book in the series and I have read the first. While this story can be a stand alone I recommend reading in order, both books are amazing. I hardly ever give 5 star reviews but this one recieves one from me without second thought. Cannot wait for the next in this series.

When I finished reading Notorious I immediately went to check to see when the next book was coming out. I happily found it on NetGalley and requested it. To my delight I got a copy! (Thank You Kensington Books!!!).

Let me just say this book is a much better delight than Notorious. I found the characters had more depth to them, the romance was more believable and enjoyable, and I liked the plot. While I did have issues with some plotting and characters arcs, it was a fun read. I only put the book down once when I realized I had been reading too late and couldn't keep my eyes open. My main wish was that it was longer and more drawn out, but otherwise it was so good.

Likes:

Eva and Godric They both have flaws and redeeming characteristics! Woo! It's sad to say that, but I am so thankful for it. Eva speaks before she thinks and Godric has a tendency for self-destruction. But she's fiercely loyal and brave and he's responsible. I loved reading about them interacting and getting to know each other. Their fighting was entertaining and them falling in love was beautifully handled. They're both flawed humans, but they helped each other overcome their flaws.

Dialogue It's quick and witty. The banter between Eva and Godric helped flesh out their characters. The internal dialogue was insightful and I wish there had been more, especially with Godric.

James and Anthony: First, I want them to be a couple. I think they would be a perfect couple. Second, they are wonderful characters that helped move the plot along and were the perfect addition to Eva and Godric. It created a good balance. Plus they were the perfect ending!

Dislikes:

Character Arcs: I wanted more out of Eva and Godric. I liked that they had their flaws, but it didn't feel like they were addressed until the very end. More growth out of the both of them would have been perfect, and in front of each other. I wanted Eva to discuss in more depth about her fears of madness and I wanted Godric to talk about the lasting effects of war and losing his family did to him. Adult discussions and then moving on together. That would have made the story perfect! But we don't get that. We get a lot of the same thing again and again from the two characters, which was annoying.

Plot There is so much that happens in this story. It's intense. I wish that half the plot points had been taken out and more time had been spent on characters. Also the story just ends. Things are mostly wrapped up, but the actual ramifications of their actions aren't addressed only mentioned. I wanted to see how things went and conversations between characters went. It just felt anti-climatic.

Eva's Age Several times throughout the story her age is brought up. Godric treats her like a child (she's 19 and he's 36 so I kinda get it ), but then he also wants to bed her? It hits the uncomfortable button for me. I know those arrangements happened then and now, but it would have been preferable if Godric didn't say those things and treat her in such a manner. Furthermore, I would have liked Eva to grow up at some point as she did act like a child a LOT.

Long Story Short
Do I recommend Outrageous? Yup! It's fun and witty. While I had some issues with character arcs and convoluted plot, the overall story is a good one. I enjoyed watching both Eva and Godric spar with each other and anyone that was against them. Their romance was cute and I liked it. I thought it better than the first book, Notorious, as Godric felt less like an ass than Gabriel and Eva had a backbone. To be honest you don't even have to read the first book to get the plot. Be sure to check this book out when it arrives on June 29, 2021!

Eva de Courtney’s plan was half-formed at best. Sure, kidnapping the heir to a dukedom wasn’t exactly a bright idea to begin with, but Eva would do anything for her family. Unfortunately, her plan doesn’t just go wrong... it is an epic disaster. And soon enough, the consequences have Eva wondering about herself, her world, and the life she’s always wished to lead.

I wasn’t sure about this one from the jump. A stubborn, incredibly naive girl and a emotionally unavailable 36 year old man made for such a contrast that I wasn’t sure they’d ever find common ground. Besides sexual tension, that is.

Godric (our hero) is definitely intriguing, and while his backstory is rough, Eva was the star of this one for me. I do wish her strength wasn’t constantly overshadowed by her immaturity (and the infantilization from Godric).

This is my first book by Minerva Spencer, and I really enjoyed how dynamic her characters are. They have such a unique balance between strengths and flaws. I’ll also note that reading the first book in this series would be helpful, as Godric serves as the villain and Eva’s hatred is a bit more justified than it seems in the abrupt kidnapping attempt at the beginning of the novel.

And lastly, Spencer’s historical accuracy is unparalleled — it almost feels like you’ve traveled back in time. If you enjoy historical romance, this one is definitely worth a read!

Eva was very childish and petulant most of the time. The constant "I hate you" was like a four year old crying for not getting her way. Unfortunately the age difference between the hero and heroine was remarked upon several times. The hero was also childish and an ass. He was the villain in the previous book and he didn't change much in this one either. Godric suffered a lot in a short time but he didn't become a strong heroic character. He was a coward and stayed one till the end. The journey didn't change the characters much.

Eva de Courtney kidnaps Godric Fleming to stop the annoying earl from persecuting the brother she loves and adores, Gabriel. Once she has Godric in her carriage, irritation soon turns to passion as her plan unfolds.

Godric soon turns tables on Eva as kidnapper soon becomes the hostage and demands her hand in marriage. The journey to Scotland is frought with danger and as Eva struggles to maintain her independence and Godric tries to keep his hands from Eva, they both realize their greatest challenge will be to hold on to their hearts.

Truly terrific. Wow! What an adventure.
I have no words for Eva, the female lead. A true incomparable, an original character created by the author.
Godric had his flaws but as always redeems himself bit by bit in true troubled hero fashion.
Together they go on a dangerous adventure which was full of twists and turns and out and out entertainment.
Eva kidnaps Godric so that the latter doesn't create more trouble in the life of her brother than he had already created.
She was headstrong, impulsive, brave and resourceful. She is fiercely protective and loyal to people she loved. Godric is trouble due to trauma in his past. He tried so hard not to fall in love with Eva but it was a losing battle from the beginning. I strongly recommend this book due to its unusual and unique story line. Though it's enemy to lovers trope but it's soon good and nothing like what I have read so far.
Loved the glimpse of Mia and Adam.
I really think Godric should have grovelled more. Eva gave up too easily.
Eagerly waiting for Richard's story.

I am a very hard core Minerva Spencer fan and was eagerly awaiting this book. So appreciative to have had the chance to read an ARC. This also means I am likely highly critical of what she writes because I always anticipate a 5 star read. Some spoilers are below.

What worked for me: Minerva Spencer’s fearlessness to write flawed, messy characters. It always reminds me of characters in the book Treasure Island. Earthy, multi-faceted, and injured (physical and mental). These characters were likewise so colorful and diverse with their behaviors and quirks. I loved the unabashed way Minerva showed Visel getting beat up and hurt throughout the novel. Many times the author does not want to show the hero looking less-than. Minerva never had an issue with this. Dialogue was mesmerizing. I enjoyed hearing what everyone would say in response to a comment or question. I could see the movie reel in my head as I read through each scene.

Now for my quibbles. I really wanted more information about Mia’s real or perceived madness. At the end of the book I was left believing her madness was due to strong emotions. But that kind of feels like a cop out. I had been hoping, based on her behavior and on previous books descriptions of her and her mother, that there would be a hereditary link for bipolar disorder. Obviously they wouldn’t call it by it’s modern name. But I was expecting/hoping to see glimpses of the heroine’s mania followed by periods of depression. I understand that would be hard, and may make for lulls in the book. But I wanted it. I was anticipating that the book would be a slow ride drama-wise, but would show Mia’s disorder understood and buffered by Visel’s war hysteria (presumably PTSD as we know it today). There are definitely hints at this, but then it seems almost dropped in for the sake of action within the story (attempted murder, etc...). I felt like we lost that potential in lieu of more chapters showing action, ie the kidnapping and the chapters with Mia and Thomas.

Excellent writing as always, I just have a very high bar for Minerva Spencer’s writing and I wish she had delved more into the emotional toils of mental illness in a time without therapeutic medicine. 4 and a half stars!

One of my favorite romance reads of the last few months! An exciting, engrossing, and enjoyable read. I enjoyed seeing Eva' and Godric's relationship develop, they had witty banter and the steamy moments were well-written. Spencer did a wonderful job of balancing both the humorous and more serious moments; the on-the-road hijinks (while silly at times) kept me riveted and entertained. I do think the ending felt a little rushed, I would have liked to have read a longer make-up or post-wedding scene between the couple instead of the many pages on horse breeding (kudos to Spencer for her diligent research, it is just not a topic I am personally interested in reading haha). Can't wait to read the next addition, and I hope we also get a book on Catherine and her husband. Spencer is definitely becoming a new must-read romance author for me!

I do agree with another reviewer who mentioned that Godric frequently referring to Eva as "a child" was off-putting. I didn't mind the age difference, but to keep referring to her in such a way was unnecessary in my opinion!

<i> Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an E-ARC of this book in return for an honest review</i>

<b> 3.75 stars</b>

Outrageous, continuing the Rebels of the Ton series, follows the story of Eva (nicknamed Evil), who in an attempt to protect her brother and best friend kidnaps Lord Godric Visel. A quick-witted, entertaining period romance ensues, containing plenty of hijinks and odd but loveable character!

Just like the first instalment of the series, I thought this was a very fast, easy and enjoyable read! Just what you need if you want to switch off for a bit!

My main quibble with this book, as it is quite often in romance, is that the MCs just didn't seem to communicate with each other properly! So many issues could easily have been less dramatic and easily resolved if they'd just had a conversation!

I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review

Really wanted to like this one because it was so different, but I could have used a little more old fashioned romance

I did not finish this book. I really liked the storyline, but I couldn't get past how the hero kept referring to the heroine as a child, infant, etc... There is a seventeen year age difference. I wasn't turned off so much by the age difference but the fact that he kept thinking of her as a child and was still attracted to her. Yuck.