'Love and Other Scandals' by Caroline Linden is a Regency romance novel set in 1827 London, following the story of Joan Bennett, a woman who is too tall, outspoken, and plump for the fashion of the day. The book revolves around Joan's journey of self-discovery and romance with her brother's rakish friend, Viscount Tristan Burke. Their gradual falling in love is portrayed as enjoyable, with witty banter-filled dialogues and engaging secondary characters. The story explores themes of self-image, seduction, and scandal, with elements of humor, intense moments, and light-hearted sensuality.

Characters:

The characters are relatable and complex, led by a strong heroine and a charming hero, with humorous supporting characters enhancing the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by witty dialogue, fast pacing, and a modern sensibility for a historical narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a romantic journey amidst societal expectations, focusing on a heroine yearning for passion and the hero, a rake, who learns to appreciate her unique qualities.

Setting:

The setting is meticulously crafted, with a rich depiction of Regency-era London, reflecting societal expectations.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast, ensuring that the story unfolds engagingly without moments of stagnation.

“Hmm.” Papa was paying no more attention than Joan was. She thought it was little surprise Lady Drummond would be out, dragging her two daughters with her. Felicity was nice enough, but Helena had a v...

Notes:

The story is set in Regency-era London in 1827.

The main characters are Joan Bennett and Viscount Tristan Burke.

Joan is portrayed as tall and curvy, which contrasts with the beauty ideals of her time.

Tristan is depicted as a rake and gadget enthusiast.

The plot revolves around themes of romance, passion, and scandal.

Joan has been ignored in the marriage mart for four seasons, leading her to seek a less proper life.

There is a significant focus on witty banter and amusing interactions between characters.

A key element of the story revolves around Joan's attempts to embrace her sexuality with the help of Tristan.

The story includes a humorous nod to '50 Ways to Sin', reminiscent of modern romantic tales like 'Fifty Shades of Grey'.

Evangeline, Joan's aunt, plays a supportive role in helping Joan embrace her identity and style.

The book has a light-hearted tone, featuring minimal angst and straightforward plot progression.

The story incorporates elements like a balloon expedition and dress transformations to enhance character development.

The reviews highlight the chemistry between the main characters and their gradual transition from mere acquaintances to lovers.

Joan's struggle with her image is a central theme, as she learns to dress in a way that flatters her physique.

Has Romance?

Yes, the book presents romance as a central theme, with significant development and chemistry between the main characters.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

With Love and Other Scandals, bestselling and RITA Award-winning author Caroline Linden launches a scandalously sexy new historical romance series set in Regency England.

Joan Bennett is a breath away from being a spinster. She's had four seasons without a suitor. After reading a shockingly sensuous book, Fifty Ways to Sin, Joan decides perhaps it's time to stop being proper and start being sinful, while she's still young enough to enjoy it. And what better partner than her brother's drinking mate, Viscount Burke? He seems the type to know how to give a lady a lascivious adventure.

It seems that the viscount has qualms about trifling with a friend's sister. That's the way to end up betrothed. And he doesn't want that-or does he?

Ratings (2)

Loved It (2)

Reader Stats (5):

Read It (2)
Currently Reading (1)
Want To Read (2)

1 comment(s)

katyana

Loved It

2 months

Super straightforward love story, no twists... but really enjoyable nonetheless. It's nice to not have a wrench thrown in the works by some mustache-twirling villain or some ridiculously overblown misunderstanding, for a change.

And the h/h were both great characters, with sharp dialogue and a great sense of humor. Very fun.

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