Looove Jane Dunn, have now read all of her books and enjoy the way she writes and tells her story with ease and the characters capture you in a way that helps you lose yourself to the time and place. A highly recommended read.

Romance and regency novels are a favourite of mine at the moment. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. This was a creative and absorbing tale! Definitely recommend this one!

I loved this book!!!! I could not get enough of this!!! I quickly devoured this book and would have read more!!! I was completely swept away into Regency England and this amazing romance. I love love love this!!! Give me more please!!!
I just reviewed A Scandalous Match by Jane Dunn. #AScandalousMatch #NetGalley
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This was a delightful turn through the Regency period we readers know and love, with characters you won't want to forget.

Angelica may have been the Jane that some set their sights on, but Ivor was not one of them...initially. He had far better things to do, or so he thought, but when lives are on the line, reputations are at stake, and what must be done is the unexpected, the unheard of, the exact opposite of what he initially set out to do, Ivor is the main to follow through. Watching him get closer to Angelica was tedious... in the best ways possible! You had to appreciate his efforts on his family's behalf to keep the family bloodline in check, but I had to applaud her determination to not be told what to do. It was great fun seeing them get closer and closer much to the surprise of them both, and when the moment of truth comes, all the more pleasing to see their hearts give in.

All in all, a great addition to the author's body of work, and another must read for Historical Romance fans looking for their next adventure between the pages.

Jane Dunne has done it again. I absolutely loved Anjelica's love story - so passionate and so fraught with danger and drama.
A heartwarming HEA and a MUST READ for all regency romance lovers.

Angelica was the perfect heroine in this story. I loved every minute of this read and know all my historical romance fans will love it too!

Blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources

http://ramblingmads.uk/2024/01/17/blog-tour-a-scandalous-match-jane-dunn/

I have adored the characters created in the exquisitely written novels of Jane Dunn since I read her first novel. A Scandalous Match is the third novel in her Regency series, and is crammed to the brim with multidimensional characters who come to life on the page. The majority of recent Regency romance has been moved away from the historical element and been given a modern outlook. In many ways, Jane Dunn’s novels bridge the gap between traditional Regency romance in the style of authors such as Georgette Heyer, and the more modern style of Regency romance novels by authors like Julia Quinn. The result is delightfully faithful to Regency style, location and language, with modern, more open opinions from the characters.

Angelica, the heroine of this story is a talented and exceptionally beautiful actress and the toast of the town. Raised as a lady, by her mother who is a kept woman, Angelica does not fit in, either with the Ton or with the lower classes. She is tenacious and brave, and unlike the women of her day, has a voice and opinions that are valued by the men around her. Although she clearly likes Charles, he is young and impetuous and quite immature in comparison to Angelica, and it does seem that she likes the idea of being married to an heir to a dukedom, rather than being in love with Charles. When she meets his uncle Ivor, she finds herself being torn between Charles and his title, and Ivor who arouses a passion in her that she has never known.

Ivor was very different to the stereotypical brooding hero in the novel. He took his work as a politician very seriously in terms of wanting to make a social impact for the benefit of the neediest in society, but was willing to put his social status at risk to assist Angelica or her friends and family. I found his character admirable and refreshing compared to the standard hero in a classic Regency romance, and loved the way in which Angelica unleashed his humorous and light-hearted side.

I loved the relationship between Angelica and Ivor’s 11 year old daughter, who was feisty, inquisitive and a matchmaker in the making. Angelica always made time for Elinor, even for them to spend time alone together.

In addition to the romance which blossomed over time between Angelica and Ivor, Charles diverted his interest to a mutual friend, with Angelica’s blessing. There was a villain in the story, in the form of a fellow member of Parliament who wanted Angelica at all costs, and was jealous of the dedication Ivor had to his position in Parliament and his connection to Angelica, and he manages to cause some trouble, but nothing that the hero cannot manage to handle.

As with her previous novels, Jane Dunn keeps the steamy moments to a minimum, while hinting at it in such a way that it is neither needed nor missed because it leaves a lot to the imagination, with the romance being both modern and tender. A Scandalous Match is a beautiful Regency romance with excellent historical accuracy and the subtlety of modern feminism relating to consent and the treatment of women.

This was a first time read for me by this author. This was a clean regency and well-written. Angelica is an actress and has captivated London with her portrayal of Ophelia. Lord Charles Latimer seems to be completely enchanted by her and fancies himself in love. But of course the ton would never accept a match like this. And that is why his mother sends for her brother, Ivor, to intervene. Ivor is a widower with a young daughter and a highly respected lawmaker. Although he himself is still very much considered marriage material by the ton, he has no interest in romance or marriage. He reluctantly agrees to help his sister, but when he himself meets Angelica, he is instantly drawn to her, and constantly finds himself coming to her rescue. A lovely romance then begins to develop between them.
The characters were interesting and well-crafted and the story kept my attention from start to finish. This was a charming and clean romance and I enjoyed the story and would love to read more of this author's work.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Boldwood Books and am voluntarily leaving my review.

4 1/2*STAR
Ivor Asprey may be a mister, but he is a highly respected, wealthy lawmaker. A widower of six years, he has a lovely young daughter who loves to play matchmaker. Angelica Leigh is an actress, considered a very beautiful woman. Admired by Ivor's nephew, heir to a dukedom, Ivor is "persuaded" to nip this romance in the bud. It may be a slow burn, but the stuff shirt lawmaker and the beautiful trusting actress find a bond when he continues to come to her rescue. A lovely clean romance with kissing only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley.

This is an entertaining read which takes you back to Regency England and the social pressures on everyone, no matter what their standing in life. I enjoyed meeting Angelica and found her to be quite a complex character. Her background and profession as an actress exclude her in many people's eyes from marrying into the higher levels of society. Yet she is also able to socialise and attend functions with the aristocrats.

Jane Dunn's knowledge of the period shines through. I found many of the supporting characters added to the humour and humanity of the story. Ivor Asprey's Parliamentary work gives you an insight into the social conditions in England. This gives his character some interesting layers and shows that he has a compassionate side despite his raucous youth. You also see how difficult getting reforms through Parliament was.

In short: Regency England brought to life

A Scandalous Match was a good read.I enjoyed the writing, the storyline and the characters.

Angelica is an actress, the most successful of London at this time, for her Ophelia role. She is acclaimed and courted by men of all walks of life, she has even caught the eye of a dukedom heir. Despite she doesn't show much interest in the marriage she'll find herself at the center of power games, intrigues and blackmailing.

I liked our heroine. Angelica is witty, fearless and daring, but as a woman in Regency era she, reluctantly, has to ask for help when she get herself into a tricky situation.
I got involved so much into this story that I felt helpless like our heroine and her friends, but the most disconcerting thought is that women still have it harder, and they still have to fight to assert themselves and to defend their liberty.

The romantic side of this novel is pleasant, the affection between the characters is endearing, and their relationship warmed my heart.

I really like the author and her stories. It is easy to get into the new world in them and I like the characters a lot. It is very nice that they are not a usual romantic stories, even though one knows quite quickly who is going to be love interest. Simultaneously I like to guess the obstacles they will need to overcome on their way. In this book I noticed quite a lot of new vocabulary for me, I had to use the dictionary a lot, but it can be a problem of me not being a native speaker. On the other hand the vocabulary enhanced the feeling for history for me, so it was well employed.
I will certainly follow the author and am looking forward for her new books.

A Scandalous Match is Jane Dunn’s third Regency romance and I have really enjoyed every one.

This has all the elements fans of the genre will love.

Angelica is a beautiful young actress who is taking London by storm with her performance of Ophelia. Her nightly drowning scene is drawing the crowds and the attentions of the men of the Ton.

Young and eligible, Lord Latimer sets his heart on winning Angelica despite the objections of his family. Angelica is definitely not seen as a suitable bride for a future duke. His uncle, serious and respectable but somewhat gruff and grumpy, Ivor Asprey is sent round to intervene to warn her off.

Of course sparks fly between them all. As well as being, beautiful Angelica is well-read, charming and interested in politics. And while some of the men see her merely as an object of sexual desire, Asprey realizes there is more to her than others may think.

The romance is a slow burner. A series of adventures and tricky situations being Angelica Ivor closer together, but there is still the weight of society’s expectations to overcome.

There’s lots of action with disasters and drama galore. The scenes in the Georgian theatre were a real eye opener.

Angelica is a wonderful character. She is positive and brings joy wherever she goes. Her relationship with Asprey’s young daughter, Elinor is particularly lovely.

There’s lots of nice historical details and the descriptions of Angelica’s clothes are delicious.

If you enjoy a historical romance, then add this one to your tbr pile.

A Scandalous Match has a very "old school" type feel about it.

It just was not my cup of tea on an enjoyment level. Too many side plots, too many problems, it was slow and drawn out and not enough "romance" or chemistry between the leads.

Probably closer to 2.5 stars.

Thank you to NegGalley for an ARC of this book. The thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Regency romance aficionados have got an excellent treat in store for them thanks to the latest novel by Jane Dunn: A Scandalous Match.

Angelica Leigh is a sensation on the London stage. Every night she performs at the Covent Garden Theatre and is feted and celebrated by dukes and earls and even the Prince Regent himself. Angelica has men throwing themselves at her feet wherever she goes, however, she is well aware of the fact that although every single man in the aristocracy wants to seduce her, they would never consider herself as a suitable bride – until Lord Charles Latimer – one of the most eligible bachelors in the Ton – sets his sights on her!

The Honourable Ivor Asprey enjoys the respect and esteem of everyone in society. The lawmaker might also be considered to be marriage material, however, the widowed single father has put paid to any thoughts of romance as it is his eleven year old daughter Elinor’s well-being that is uppermost in his mind. When Lord Latimer’s mother, the Duchess of Arlington, hears of her son’s determination to wed an actress, she asks for Ivor’s help. Well aware of young men’s frequent infatuations with actresses, Ivor assures her that Charles will soon lose interest in Angelica. However, when Ivor finds himself in the company of the renowned Miss Leigh, he is surprised when he realises that even he isn’t immune to her charms…

A man as steadfast, honourable and upstanding as The Honourable Ivor Asprey couldn’t possibly fall for an actress…could he?

With A Scandalous Match, Jane Dunn continues to cement her position as one of the most gifted and talented writers of Regency romances writing today. As always, Jane Dunn’s attention to detail, her impeccable grasp of the mores of the 19th century and gift for characterization are second to none. Readers will be completely enchanted by A Scandalous Match and by Angelica and Ivor’s love story that sparkles with wit, flair, humour and charm.

A splendidly romantic Regency tale from Jane Dunn’s superb pen, A Scandalous Match is pure magic from start to finish.

A new author for me, A Scandalous Match by Jane Dunn was an interesting read. It depicts Angelica an actress who is much in demand and sought after by every rich man to be his mistress. Angelica is not keen to go down the usual route of many an actress at the time. Her mother and she led an exceedingly difficult life with she was young, until a kindly protector took her mother under his wing and purchased a home for them in Mayfair and set them up.

Angelica is an educated young woman, despite her humble beginnings and is determined to ignore her mother's advice to find a rich husband and instead wants to dedicate herself to her craft as an actress. Her acting is so good that young Lord Charles Latimer is determined to marry her as he fancies himself in love with her. His mother, the duchess of Arlington is scandalised and determined to pay the woman off and get her out of her son's life. She persuades her brother, Ivor Asprey, a highly respected, law maker to intervene and do the right thing by the family. However, when Ivor meets Angelica and tries to pay her off, she is offended and tells him directly that she has no intention of marrying Charles.

After their initial meeting, Angelica calls upon Ivor quite a few times to assist with various issues that do not affect her directly. Ivor is a widower with a young daughter, Elinor and following his introduction of his daughter to Angelica, they form a bond.

As the relationship develops, Ivor and Angelica grow closer, which scandalises proper society given Angelica's background.

A lovely read that I enjoyed. I received an ARC from #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks and submit my honest review.

It’s March 1814. In London, we meet Ivor Asprey, a 34-year-old Whig party MP for Abingdon. He is highly respected and wealthy. Following the death of his wife, he is a single father to daughter Elinor (11), who is looked after by her straight-forward, no nonsense governess Miss Stafford.
Ivor’s sister – Edwina, Duchess of Arlington – comes to him with a concern. Her son and heir – Lord Charles Latimer – is in love with Angelica Leigh, an actress, currently playing Ophelia in Hamlet at the Covent Garden Theatre. The Duchess is appalled that her son should want to be with an actress and urges Ivor to intervene and stop the relationship.
Meanwhile, we meet Angelica. Her and her mother Amabel come from poverty, but thanks to a benefactor, they now live well. Angelica has a maid called Mary and they are both strong and resourceful young women. Just as well, as with Angelica being so beautiful, she constantly has to rebuke the affections of various men.
A Scandalous Match tells the story of these characters and I loved them all (well, except for the bad guys!), including Angelica’s friend Isobel Fitzjames. I had a particular soft spot for young Elinor, who is as bright as a button and desperate for attention from her busy father. There are some fantastic minor characters too. I especially loved Charles’s poet friend Dante Locke and Angelica’s butler Martin, the retired actor.
Despite being a wonderful story, the novel is full of themes of class, status and wealth. There is such a depth to it. Jane Dunn’s historical knowledge shines through and her words are very evocative, with brilliant descriptions of London at that time. I was shocked at the behaviour of the theatregoers then. If I’d have been an actress on the stage, I’d have been telling the audience to shut up and listen to the play!
I felt I learned a lot from the book (always a good thing!) including a lot of new words (Kindle is great for that!), especially for the fashions of the day (such as spencer, tippet and pelisse) and the insults and terms used to describe someone’s characteristics (including marplot, prosy, a spoony drunk and sobersides).
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It’s beautifully written, the characters shine out from the pages and the story is well-paced and compelling.

A Scandalous Match by Jane Dunn is an endearing tale of a young, but past the first bloom, man who falls in love with the woman with whom his nephew is in hopes to marry. She is an actress and beyond engaging as she dies as Ophelia in Hamlet. She recognizes strength in him and asks for assistance, several times. He always give it, but discreetly. He is a member of parliament and known for having outgrown his youthful ways. His wife died five years earlier and the only joy left in his life is his daughter, Elinor, who has been raised by her governess, Miss Stafford. Ivor Asprey has an older sister who is a duchess and very opinionated, and a possible fiancee, who is also very opinionated and conservative. Elinor doesn’t really care for either of them, so avoids them when she is able. Charles, the nephew, is head-over-heals for Angelica Leigh, and innocent and beautiful young whom, who sadly is an actress and so, below the notice of Charles’ mother, It is a detailed story of the trials and tribulations of these folks and more.

Ivor has lost the person who made his life bright and has taken on the mantle of a reformer in parliament. He is well-born, conservative, and well, boring. He finds himself unable to refuse any of the tasks Angelicas lays before him. Interestingly they are usually all about another, not herself. A rake and reprobate discovers some of this and threatens to ruin Ivor if Angelica refuses to become his mistress. In direct opposition to what normally happens in a book, Angelica goes to Ivor, once again. And once again he solves it by calling the man out. Angelica cannot allow Ivor to be killed and so arranges the Bow Street Runners to appear and stop the madness. This does not endear her to Ivor, who considered it dishonorable. There is this and so much more in this rather excellent book. Thanks Ms. Dunn

I was invited to read A Scandalous Match by Boldwoood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #JaneDunn #AScandalousMatch

A beautiful story, impossible to put down. A Scandalous Match blends the social and political history of Regency England with a riveting and thought-provoking romance between a member of parliament and an actress.

There are plenty of characters in this book who delight and entertain. I couldn't help but adore Lord Latimer and Mr Locke as they both appeared very genuine in their friendship and admiration for Angelica.

The theatre scenes were riotous and I could almost hear and feel the responses of the audience to Angelia's portrayal of Ophelia's death.

The slow burn enemies to friendship to lovers romance between Angelica and Ivor Asprey was fun to watch and a very charming read. Despite his protests to her suitability for his nephew he couldn't help but come to her aid whenever she was in trouble. He is kind and has a social conscience. Child labour reform is at the heart of his parliamentary endeavours and he is careful with his reputation to prevent opposition from latching on to anything scandalous that might derail his efforts. He didn't anticipate an emotional attachment to Angelica to put a spanner in the works.

There is a nice amount of humour in the story as Ivor's daughter, Elinor also develops a fondness for Angelica and is determined to play matchmaker. She is a lovely and endearing child and I couldn't help but want this trio to become a little family.

I enjoyed every minute of this book. It has depth, emotional charge, suspense and drama in addition to being a sparkling romance.