This book was nice, but not as good as I'd expected. I love a good second chance romance, but unfortunately I really struggled to maintain focus and connect with the characters. There was also a lack of proper chemistry between the MCs, that mad the story fall flat.

Thank you to the publisher for kindly providing me with an ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

How to Best a Marquess by Janna MacGregor is book #3 in the Widow Rules series. Such lovely characters in this book! The heroine, Beth Howell is on a quest to find the dowry her now-deceased, bigamist first husband absconded with before being forced by her uncaring brother to marry an elderly gentleman just to get Beth our of his hair. She is an intelligent and strong character.Enter ex-fiance Julian Raleah, Marquess of Greyson who ends up helping Beth. This is one swoon-worthy hero! I love these two together. Definitely a perfect couple! It doesn't come easy but I enjoyed their Happily Ever After.

How to Best a Marquess

Although this the third book in “The Widow Rules” series, it is a standalone book. You don’t need to read the first 2 ( “A Duke in Time” and “Rules for Engaging the Earl”), but you will miss out on enjoyable and fun books. Katherine, Constance and Beth were all married to Meriweather (Meri) Vareck —at the same time! The scoundrel ran off with their dowries. This is Beth’s story. She is financially and socially ruined. She must find her dowry, but she needs help for the journey. She asks Julian, the Marquess of Grayson, to accompany her. However, Julian was an “almost fiancé “ years ago. (Beth’s brother refused Julian.) There are misgivings and trust issues on both sides.

Julian has also fallen on hard times and needs the money for his inventions. Beth promises to give him half of what they find. Reluctantly, he agrees to accompany her. Both Beth and Julian still have feelings for each other. Besides the quest for finding her dowry, could this be a second chance at love?

And what a journey it is —- mystery, romance, laughter (wait til you read the robbery scene!), heartache and more. Throughout the quest, both Beth and Julian become good friends again. Julian has never stopped loving her. Beth loves him, too. Because the men in her life have left or failed her, Beth has decided to never marry. As the quest ends, the dowry is still missing; Julian loses the backing for his invention; and the lovers go their separate ways. Ah, but wait —there’s more (as they say in the TV ad!)

Janna MacGregor is a well-accomplished author. When I choose one of her books, I know I will be entertained with a good story and strong characters. One of the factors I like best is that she creates strong, independent, intelligent female characters and developing heroes. I was given an ARC for my honest opinion. I really liked this book. I bonded with Beth and Julian and felt their emotions. I was happy for them at the end —but sad because the book was done! Buy the book —you won’t be disappointed.

How to Best a Marquess is a second chance romance with the close proximity of a coach trip. This trek into the countryside is in pursuit of Beth Howell’s lost dowry.

I really liked the character of Julian, Marquess of Grayson. He was honorable, intelligent, and charming. Janna MacGregor always delivers with her dashing heroes.

I wanted more of Cillian the valet, butler, footman, coachman, etc. etc.
The energy in the highwayman robbery scene was such fun.

A satisfying ending to this series about an unlikely trio of “sisterwives”

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was wonderful. I lived every page of this regency second chance romance. It has everything you look for in a historical romance. If I could go back in time and visit I would choose this time period because I love it so due to great books like this one.
I just reviewed How to Best A Marquess by Janna MacGregor. #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]

Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book. I’m a big fan of Janna MacGregor so I was happy to read the final installment of the trilogy, The Widow Laws, this one focusing on Miss Beth Howell and her long-lost love Julian Raleah, the Earl of Weyhill. In the opening scene, we see Beth as a debutante when Julian proposes to her and they swear their love to one another. When Beth’s brother refuses Julian’s suit, he quietly leaves without fighting for Beth or offering her any explanation. This is the first step in her journey to closing herself off from love.

Sometime later, Beth’s brother arranges for her to marry Lord Meriwether Vareck, not knowing Beth will be his third wife, subsequent to and simultaneously with Constance and Kat (her best friends since the discovery). When Beth realizes that Meri took off with her dowry and never came back—before dying unexpectedly—she vows she will never marry.
Meanwhile, her good-for-nothing brother St. John is busy trying to arrange a marriage for her to an elderly widower because he needs money and views Beth as a means to obtain it. She refuses and decides it’s time to search for her dowry, so she asks Julian to accompany her. Initially, it’s unclear why she chooses to invite Julian, but she justifies it because she doesn’t want to involve her newlywed friends and she doesn’t really have anyone else to ask—since she has been ostracized as a result of her downfall. The truth is, there’s probably a part of her that never even admits that she wants to spend time with him because she needs to know why he left her. Maybe, she even wants to see if there’s still anything left between.

Beth promises to give Julian half of her dowry, or whatever is left of it, when they find it, and although it is clear that they both have strong feelings for one another, he agrees to help her. She disappoints him by defining their relationship as a business one. She is very upfront about her vow to never marry, but Julian is determined to change her mind. Over the course of their search, they grow closer. Julian comes to understand how many times Beth has been betrayed by the men in her life and thus, doesn’t trust them. She comes to understand she still loves Julian, but she’s hesitant because she doesn’t want her soiled reputation to damage Julian’s.

The story is an adventure with a literal journey. Not only do the two of them follow a trail left behind by Meri in the hopes of finding something/anything, but they also journey inwardly in their feelings for one another. Julian realizes his love for Beth has only grown, while Beth realizes she still loves him. However, she doesn’t possess the courage required to accept his new offer of marriage. She tells herself she loves him too much to risk his reputation or his property, and I’m sure she believes that, but ultimately, that’s not the only thing holding her back. It’s stressful and their fate is uncertain until the very end.

During Beth and Julian’s journey, they arrive at one of the inns and the scene is described thusly: “Moving with the speed of honey on a brisk January day, an elderly couple tottered out of the inn with a middle-aged woman following.” This may be the cleverest wording of “slower than molasses in January” that I’ve ever read.

Without revealing the ending, I do need to mention that I found the whole thing with Cumberland and Somerset confusing. Where did Beth live? Cumberland? Where was she when she was ‘married’ to Meri? Cumberland? Did he visit the other property when he left wherever she was? Somerset? Where is she now (at the end)? I’m sorry, but the way it was presented, I still couldn’t figure out how something got from one place to another, especially since Meri was so briefly in her life. Despite my confusion, I still loved the book, and I was happy to read Beth’s HEA. There were a bunch of typos but I’m sure those will be fixed prior to publication.

Beth, a widow, is looking for her dowry that her polygamous husband of one week took when he left her. She wants the money so she can live independently from her controlling brother and the scandal of finding her husband had two other wives. Julian is a poor marquess who hopes to restore his wealth by building steam engines to power mills. Always in love with Beth, and rejected to court her by her brother, Julian realizes he is still in love with her. They set out together to trace the last steps of her husband before he died. I received an ARC from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for my honest review.

How to Best a Marquess, Janna MacGregor writes a classic romantic tale of a strong women, Beth, who tears into a variety personal throes. I adore MacGregor’s subtle, but relevant perception of feminism in this book. Moving from one pivotable moment to another, my heart was captured by powerful friendships and a charming male role who is dedicated to pure, honest love. Grayson is everything a women desires, loyal, proud and inventive. Cheers to Janna for delivering a passionate, historical fiction piece!

Super excited as this was my first ARC from NetGalley, this did not disappoint at all and made me remember why I am so into historical romances. I did not read the other books in the series, but this book definitely piqued my interest in the other books!
I liked the mystery element to the book and the fact that this was basically a road trip second-chance romance, just in a historical setting. I've also never really seen a story involving trigamy as a scandal. Frustrating that Beth would be the one that has her reputation ruined when she had no idea what was going on, but really highlighted misogyny that's impossible to separate from historical romances.
The history between Beth and Julian and their "failed" courtship showed how well suited they are for each other. Beth admired Julian for his work on steam engines and did not care that he was basically broke, while Julian respected Beth and wanted the best for her. The fact that they both fell victim to their circumstances was so realistic and actually made me cry a bunch throughout the novel (which is rare for me). Their misunderstanding that lead to the typical third act breakup did not seem petty to me at all, and I understood where they were both coming from. When they eventually got together I was just so happy as it all made sense.

Thank you to Janna MacGregor, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for the arc of “How to Best a Marquess”

I had a sudden urge a week or so ago to read a historical romance or two and went on NetGalley where I found a listing for How to Best a Marquess. I’m glad I did!

I had a ton of fun reading this! I loved Beth as a main character and Julien was charming and nice. I’ve read a lot of romance novels and it’s always a mixed bag on whether or not I’m going to actually like the MMC, but I loved Julien! He was genuinely nice and wanted what was best for Beth. Their friendship was sweet as well.

I think if you’re looking for a well rounded story, a fantastic main character, a sweet romance, and a MMC who isn’t pushy this is absolutely the book for you!

4/5 stars! This is the third book in "The Widow Rules" series by Janna MacGregor. I love historical romance. It is probably the genre I have been reading the longest, so I have a soft spot in my heart for this genre. After reading the premise, I was excited to get to know Beth and Julian's story. I love a good grumpy sunshine romance and we get that in spades here, as was the miscommunication trope. I'm not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope but it was handled well here. Overall, really enjoyed Julian and watching them get their HEA.

I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The third book in this series is just as action packed, full of twists and just enough steam as the first two were. Beth and Julian are a great couple and well matched.

My first Janna MacGregor. This can be read as a stand-alone, I didn't really feel like I was missing any puzzle pieces by not having read the first books in this series.

I'm not a big fan of second-chance romance, but I really enjoyed the setup for this one. The tension, desire, and angst all create a wonderful slow burn.

This is a good old-fashioned road trip romance for most of the book with lots of zany capers (getting stripped and tied to a tree after the heroine tries to shoot the robber? FUN!)

The writing is wonderful and purple and Julian is the hottest kind of hero. The bathtub scene (sex lessons because she's never gotten off before) where he takes care of her from behind like the scene from Ghost after hand-feeding her a chicken dinner, I cannot 🫠🫠🫠)

If you are into pampering and getting taken care of like a princess by a sexy, sexy engineer, this book is for you.

I had to drop this to three stars because the end of the second act all the way through the breakup and into the end just dragged really horribly for me. I didn't like magical resolution of all the problems and I really hated her proposing to him, like NO thank you.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

This story has great friendships and a love story that stands together even after all the trials. Lots of mystery thrown in to add to the story.

THE REVIEW
Beth Howell and Julian Raleah were once in love and hoped to marry, but Beth’s brothers refusal of the match sent Julian away without a word to Beth. Beth was devastated and confused; Julian was embarrassed and ashamed.

Years pass and Beth is forced to face Julian and ask for his help in recovering her dowry that her deceased husband, Meri wagered. Beth was the third wife of Meri and left in the worst position of the three.

Julian Raleah was devastated to be denied a marriage with Beth but he has never stopped loving her. So when Julian hears about her fake marriage and she shows up at his door asking for help, he is optimistic that he can win her back! What ensues is an adventure across the British countryside in an attempt to retrace Meri’s path and find her dowry!

Julian and Beth were so cute! I felt for both of them and the positions they were put in. BUT I will say, I hate a miscommunication trope! I find it so frustrating when years of happiness are lost because they didn’t simply TALK! I was able to get past my frustration in this book, however, because they were able to recover a friendship quickly and neither was overly angry with the other. They had cute banter and believable sexy times! The adventure was fun and added to their ability to actually communicate with each other.

BUT then my other hated trope of a second act break-up popped up. Ugh. This one bothered me because I didn’t understand Beth’s reasoning for refusing a future with Julian. She made it sound like she had no choice, but Julian was the one with the title and in need of funds, so if he was MORE than willing to overlook the concerns, she should be too!

This wasn’t my favorite of the series, but I did run through all the emotions (even some teary eyes) and I liked how everything was settled with what Meri had left his wives.

TROPES
Historical Romance, Regency Era, Beta/Cinnamon Roll Hero, Scientist Hero, Protective Hero, Titled Hero, Damaged/Tortured Heroine, Experienced Heroine, Independent Heroine, Widowed Heroine, Second Chance Romance, Road Trip Trope, Second Act Breakup, Bath/Shower Steam, Four Star, Three Flame

How to Best a Marquess by Janna MacGregor

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley for review. My opinions are my own.

3/5 stars

This was book three of the Widow Rules series. Having not read the previous two books, there were parts of the book that were a bit confusing to me. Eventually the pieces came together but it would have helped to have read the first two books.

All in all, I enjoyed this book. I thought the characters were well-written and the love scenes were just steamy enough.

This book lost stars for me because the end of the journey was a bit abrupt for me. I found it quite confusing and rereading it didn’t help. I also didn’t find Beth’s speech at the end very believable, given the timeframe.

All in all, an entertaining Regency romance.

i didn’t expect to love this one as much as i did tbh. i am literally dying to read the first two books of the widow series now.

macgregor’s style is soo unique and easy to read. i was flying through the second part of the book when beth and julien embark on their journey like it’s so good.

some parts did feel like those old timey shows where the villain ties up the girl on railroad tracks but like i didn’t hate it?

i’d never read anything with a steam engineer before and i loved him? like so unique and beth being a strong independent queen!! we love it sm <3

also the friendship between beth and meris other wives is so good. i cried at the scene with beths ‘sisters of the heart’ when beth and julien had returned home.

i’d DEF recommend this one no doubt

4/5

If Beth Howell wants to be free of everything after her trigamist husband left her in ruin, she must find her dowry. Julian Raleah, Marquess of Grayson is the only person she can turn to for assistance in locating the dowry. Together, they made a very fascinating discovery that was both insightful and revived their desire for one another.

You should be aware of the fact that I enjoy second-chance romances in books, which could be the deciding factor in my review. But once a road trip is thrown into the equation, you've got me in a tight grasp and I can't help but adore this novel. In general, their tale is hilarious, adventurous, and filled with ferocious and passionate encounters. It also contained some unexpected insights. The voyage develops into a thrilling adventure full of intriguing mystery, with a buildup developing toward the question of why Meri did what he did. Through working together to solve this puzzle and rekindling their once-lost connection, they are able to piece their relationship back together, creating this magnificent love story.

This one surprised me. In many ways. I was scared to start because whenever there’s a wastrel brother…I see red. However, Beth really held him accountable and I appreciated how she reflected on her past actions as well. I also found the road-trip to be reminiscent of A Week to Be Wicked. It was pretty fun and they got into some wacky situations. I also loved Grayson’s pining and the mutual baths!!!

However, unlike A Week to Be Wicked, there was a third act breakup and it disrupted my happiness. Since this was a second chance romance, there was a lot of miscommunication. And then the breakup was frustrating because Beth didn’t think he could handle her tarnished reputation and really thought he would marry someone else?? Like babes you had this reputation the entire time he’s been courting you!! He’s aware!!

It was just annoying and hypocritical when she told Sir Jeffrey he was a fool to make rash judgements regarding Grayson. The sex scene was also super sweet and for the breakup to happen right after it was a buzzkill. I did appreciate how Grayson was like fine then we can’t see each other because it’s rude of you to still want to be friends. Go off king. Regarding the second chance, I think there were faults on both ends for their original breakup in the past, so I wasn’t too pressed by it.

I was okay with the end and how things were working out…but then the epilogue happened. Why did it do that I’m so confused?? Not everyone needs a redemption arc…especially dowry + virginity + reputation stealing trigamists??? Let me be salty in peace. And it included random magic?? What? It was just a very odd end to the series. It gave a melancholy vibe to what should’ve been light and fluffy.

Overall, while I enjoyed parts, as a whole, I don’t think I’d need to read again. Book two was pretty heavy and angsty so I wanted this one to be full fun and fluff (while still being a good ol pining second chance). It did try with the road trip shenanigans, but it wasn’t fully what I wanted. Book one remains my favorite in the series, but I am happy I know how everything shaped up for the other two wives.

⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️*/5

*There was one explicit sex scene and a lot of pining and horny bathing. It’s a lingering touches and longing glances kind of romance.

Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC. All opinions are honest and my own.

Wow, I have been waiting for this! This is part of a series set in the Regency period where a man marry three women and then passes away leaving them destitute. Each lady has a journey to make to arrive at financial security and a happy ever after.
This review may contain spoilers.
I have truly enjoyed this series. Each woman was a raised in a lady-like way and trusted the man they married. They did nothing wrong and yet are forced to pay the consequences. Each lady has responded in their own way and fought for their happiness.
The heroine was 18 when she met the hero. They were actually supposed to get married when the heroine's brother refused to accept the hero. He did not have any money because his father made unwise investments. So the hero gave up the heroine to make a better marriage. The heroine's brother sold her into marriage with the trigamist because she was broken hearted. After the man's crimes can to light after his death, the three women were treated as pariahs instead of victims. The heroine is tired of being a victim and is actively going to find out where the trigamist put her dowry. She goes to her former love, the hero, because there is no one else that she can trust. Her brother keeps trying to sell her into another marriage so he can get some money to save the estates. This time the groom is 75 years old. She proposes they travel along the trigamist's last path based on his receipts and hopefully find where her dowry is. The hero agrees to do so because, after 8 years, he still loves the heroine.even though this will be brutally painful, he will help her. And she promises to split the dowry money between them because he still needs money to put into his factory.
I really loved this story. That is why is pains me to only give it 4 stars. And it is because of 5 letters. "per se". I see this used so many times by authors who think they are using it appropriately, but they aren't. This isn't a phrase that you toss out when you want to sound intelligent, because you don't. There are plenty of real words that will appropriately take the place of that phrase and if an author is not verbose enough to have other options in their arsenal, then they should be dinged for it.. I recommend reading. This is a good story and good end to the series, but I hope it continues.