Thank you Boldwood and Netgalley for the chance to read this book..
This was a DNF for me.
I couldn’t warm to Drew’s character at all; the way he coveted Mary’s innocence while also trying to pursue and corrupt was totally cringe. Her naivety bugged me.
The quality of the writing itself was fine.

Lord Andrew Framlington is a rogue of the worst kind: actively looking for a wealthy wife that will fix his enormous debt issues. Miss Mary Marlow is that woman that he has set his sights on. She has been warned by family and friends that Lord Andrew should be avoided at all costs, yet she becomes smitten and falls head first.

Though I have enjoyed many of Jane Lark’s previous novels, unfortunately, this one was not for me. While I do appreciate a redemption arc, I never really warmed up to Drew’s character. And Mary was too naive for me.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own.

First of all, a huge thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC of The Dangerous Love of a Rogue by Jane Lark.

I just want to start by saying how beautifully written this book is—it felt so lyrical and immersive. As far as I know, this isn’t the first time the book has been published (it originally came out 10 years ago), but this edition has been re-edited. I’m not familiar with the earlier version, but I can confidently say that this one is clearly polished and flows effortlessly from start to finish. I really appreciate the care that went into bringing it to life again.

The story follows Lord Andrew Framlington, a 25-year-old rake with hazel eyes and a troubled past. He’s burdened by debt and chasing the idea of a peaceful life in the countryside. He’s very much the classic “broken hero”—at times even poetic in his despair (lines like “born in sin and raised in sin”). He’s flawed and raw, and I can absolutely see readers who enjoy redemption arcs really connecting with his journey.

Then we have Mary Marlow, just 19, the sweet and intelligent half-sister of the Duke of Pembroke. Coming from a noble, loving, and protective family, she’s searching for a love story of her own. I truly adored her character—elegant, grounded, and so pure of heart.

The dynamic between Mary and Andrew is full of emotional tension, passion, and high stakes—especially on his side. He’s on the hunt for a wealthy, innocent, and obedient wife whose dowry can help him escape his burdens. While I found their connection compelling, I’ll admit that the relationship didn’t sit right with me. At times, Andrew’s behavior genuinely frustrated me. I understand what the author was going for—and while it wasn’t entirely my cup of tea, I know readers who love the “I can fix him” trope will absolutely devour this.

That said, I really enjoyed the overall reading experience. The atmosphere, pacing, and emotional depth were all there. Plus, I appreciated the relationship between Mary and her family, and the little found-family moments happening with Drew and his friends. The ending caught me by surprise, too, so I’m definitely planning to continue with the Marlow Family Secrets series.

If you’re looking for an atmospheric, beautifully written historical romance full of passion, I definitely recommend giving this one a try—but keep in mind, it doesn’t follow the typical happily-ever-after.

Release date: 05/31/2025

This felt like the first part of a series. The book is definitely a fast read, i was expecting more of Julia Quinn or Elousa James vibes, but the tale hung on to a hasty courtship abd elopement between Lord Drew Framlington and Miss Mary Marlow. She's the half sister of a Duke, while his family is known for its fast and furious morals.. i struggled to complete this book because it did not provide enough background on the lead characters and the courtship itself felt forced..

The first chapter is full of Miss Marlow's "innocence" and how charming her "innocence" is and oh how nice if her "innocence" could rub off on Drew's sinner self and maybe he'll lock her "innocence" away just for himself. Like... Wtf? The writing is plodding, I could barely stand to finish the first chapter. Not real pleased to see Drew forcing molesting kisses on Mary, whose "body wants it" but whose mind freaks. That's...hot. 😒

Thanks to the publisher for giving me access to this title, but I'm not going to read it.

Unfortunately, I really struggled to connect with the main characters in this book, and as a result wasn’t invested in their story or their love. I believe this is the first in a series, which explains the unresolved ending, but sadly I don’t think I’ll be searching out of the rest of the books. A shame as I love finding a new regency romance series!

1* disappointing

I've not read an historical romance for a long time and anticipated a light, amusing read. Unfortunately the author’s knowledge of the Regency period is glaringly uninformed with inaccuracies filling the pages. Described as a 'passionate Regency romance', remove the passion, which was borderline sexual assault, there’s very little romance in the meaningless jumble of words.

Drew has rejected his family (sketchy reason given for this), has run out of money and is now living on the benevolence of his wealthy friends. Amassing massive debts, facing the likelihood of a debtor’s prison, his solution is to marry a rich woman, pay his bills, buy a small estate and live quietly in the country. Upon catching sight of Mary, and knowing of her immense wealth, he decides, she'll do.

Mary's father and brother order her to stay away from Drew, her friends warn of his dangerous reputation, yet after one dance she's in love. She willingly allows herself to be pulled into his web as he becomes obsessed with her - and her money. Whilst he intended to marry her, with bailiffs and debt collectors pursuing him, he resolves to compromise Mary, forcing an instant marriage.

1* might possibly be a bit harsh but Drew was offensive throughout the book and Mary had the sense of a tadpole.

First published in 2015, four editions, three publishers, this latest release ends at the marriage, earlier versions continued with their life together.

With thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.

I liked the premise of this book, but I thought it was not quite there in the end. I liked Mary, and could identify with her emotions, close family life, and struggles within their relationship. However, Drew was harder to sympathize with, and came off as immature and not willing to grow or learn from their relationship. It was also a little disturbing how his pursuit of her was more one-sided, with him telling her how she felt. He kept saying he cared for her (and later that he loved her), but never vocalized why or explained any of his actions. Mary and Drew both had communication issues, and while I assume they will eventually work them out, none of these issues were resolved within the pages of this book.

Overall, it was an entertaining story. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review.

This was a funny book to read and I was torn whilst reading it. Mary and her family are lovely and caring and there is a real bond between them that comes out of the pages and is lovely to read. I never warmed to Drew and struggled in their brewing romance because of it. The adventures of the couple and their friends is entertaining although the ending left me wanting a little.

This book was EXCELLENT. It just finished too soon. Certainly as intriguing as Bridgerton and Sanditon. I could have read pages and pages more. A wonderful way to spend a lazy Saturday

I was initially drawn to The Dangerous Love of a Rogue because I usually love a good reformed rake story. Jane Lark can write. Her prose flows well, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the Regency setting is always fun to escape into. The chemistry between Andrew and Mary had its moments, and I appreciated the tension and scandal that surrounded their relationship.

That said, I really struggled to connect with the male main character in this one. While the book was well-written overall (a few typos here and there, but nothing major), Andrew never really felt like a truly reformed rogue to me. He loved Mary, sure, but he consistently put his own needs first and couldn’t seem to understand her feelings. His emotional immaturity and lack of consideration made it hard for me to root for him, and, honestly, I found myself agreeing with Mary’s family more than I expected to. Especially with his initial interest in her being so focused on her innocence and how it could help him. Maybe if his backstory had been more fleshed out, I’d have had more empathy for him, but as it was, he came off as frustrating rather than endearing.

Still, the book was enjoyable overall and worth a read if you like characters that are flawed and not totally redeemed in the end.

Thank you to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the chance to review this ARC. All opinions are my own.

Lord Andrew is a rogue, a fortune hunter... He wants to marry a wealthy bride for her money and he actually falls for Mary- who is the sister of a wealthy duke.... Can she trust him?

Love the romance. It's steamy and fun. Andrew is terrific and I love Mary. Love their chemistry. Swoony romance.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.