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Union of the Rakes #3
Waiting for a Scot Like You
Eva Leigh concludes her Breakfast Club and 80s movie-inspired Regency series with a merry widow and a stoic major on a bumpy road to love...
Adjusting to life in peacetime isn’t easy for Major Duncan McCameron. Escorting a lady on her journey north seems like the perfect chance to give him some much-needed purpose. That is, until he learns the woman in question is the beautiful, bold, reckless Lady Farris. She makes his head spin and being alone together will surely end in disaster.
Beatrice, the Dowager Countess of Farris, is finally free of a stifling marriage and she has no plans to shackle herself to any other man. Ready to live life to the fullest, she’s headed to a week-long bacchanal and the journey should be half the fun. Except she’s confined to a carriage with a young, rule-abiding, irritatingly handsome Scottish soldier who wouldn’t know a good time if it landed in his lap. But maybe a madcap escapade will loosen him up...
Between carriage crashes, secret barn dances, robbers, and an inn with only one bed, their initial tension dissolves into a passion that neither expected. But is there a future for an adventure-loving lady and a duty-bound soldier, or will their differences tear them apart?
Don't miss the earlier books in the Union of the Rakes series—My Fake Rake and Would I Lie to the Duke are available now!
Adjusting to life in peacetime isn’t easy for Major Duncan McCameron. Escorting a lady on her journey north seems like the perfect chance to give him some much-needed purpose. That is, until he learns the woman in question is the beautiful, bold, reckless Lady Farris. She makes his head spin and being alone together will surely end in disaster.
Beatrice, the Dowager Countess of Farris, is finally free of a stifling marriage and she has no plans to shackle herself to any other man. Ready to live life to the fullest, she’s headed to a week-long bacchanal and the journey should be half the fun. Except she’s confined to a carriage with a young, rule-abiding, irritatingly handsome Scottish soldier who wouldn’t know a good time if it landed in his lap. But maybe a madcap escapade will loosen him up...
Between carriage crashes, secret barn dances, robbers, and an inn with only one bed, their initial tension dissolves into a passion that neither expected. But is there a future for an adventure-loving lady and a duty-bound soldier, or will their differences tear them apart?
Don't miss the earlier books in the Union of the Rakes series—My Fake Rake and Would I Lie to the Duke are available now!
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2021
124 people are currently reading
4599 people want to read
About the author
Eva Leigh
27 books1,432 followersEva Leigh is a USA Today bestselling romance author. A graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, her books have been featured by the New York Times, NPR, Oprah Daily, the Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist, Self, Paste Magazine, and many more. Her work has also been translated into numerous languages. She lives on the Central California coast with her husband and cats. Visit her on the web at evaleighauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 425 reviews
June 29, 2021
THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN!
in this we have an age gap romance but with an older heroine (46) and a younger hero (34)
she is a widow who is finally free from a controlled life and wants to experience everything. and one of those things includes traveling across country to attend an orgy 😂 her friends insist she has someone escort her there, so enter Major Duncan McCameron, a scottish man who loves rules and order.
this book is basically if the "only one bed" trope was an entire plot. as they travel across the country they have to stay at inn's along the way as a fake married couple and share a bed 🥵 🥵 🥵
in this we have an age gap romance but with an older heroine (46) and a younger hero (34)
she is a widow who is finally free from a controlled life and wants to experience everything. and one of those things includes traveling across country to attend an orgy 😂 her friends insist she has someone escort her there, so enter Major Duncan McCameron, a scottish man who loves rules and order.
this book is basically if the "only one bed" trope was an entire plot. as they travel across the country they have to stay at inn's along the way as a fake married couple and share a bed 🥵 🥵 🥵
February 13, 2021
Series: Union of Rakes #3
Publication Date: 2/23/21
Number of Pages: 368
** 2.5 Stars Rounded Up **
I loved our male lead, thirty-four-year-old Major Duncan McCameron. He is one of those strong, fearless, stoic men who are really marshmallows inside. After being raised by an uptight family and then spending twenty years in the military, Duncan is a rule follower. That is one of the reasons he did so well in the military. Yet, since he’s home from the wars, he feels restless and unsettled. What he had wanted – and still wanted really – was a wife and family, yet it seems beyond him to make that happen.
Beatrice Sloane, forty-six-year-old dowager countess of Farris, is finally free from her oppressive marriage and she fully intends to revel in absolutely every aspect of life from this point forward – and – she will absolutely never, under any circumstances, marry again. Frankly, I didn’t care for Beatrice – I really tried to like her, but I just couldn’t get there. Evidently, she didn’t care how much pain she caused Duncan – nor did she give the stigma her activities would cause her family any consideration at all. She didn’t seem to care – if she wanted to do it, she did it.
Beatrice intends to travel to Nottinghamshire to attend a week-long orgy at the home of Lord Gibbs. After having an inattentive husband, she was looking forward to a week of pleasure. Neither she nor Duncan was pleased when their mutual friend, the Duke of Rotherby, asked Duncan to escort Beatrice to assure she arrived safely. Rotherby convinces them and their adventure begins.
Along the way they have a lot of adventures – they stop to help deliver lambs, they have a coach accident, they encounter thieves – and they have lots and lots and lots and lots of intimate times together. I actually felt the ‘story’ part was just a way to stitch all of the intimate scenes together.
In all of the years I have been reading books and writing reviews, I have only given a 2.5-star rating a handful of times. I’m sad to say this is one of those times. I didn’t even get what I consider – for the period – to be a Happily Ever After. What we got would fit in today’s world perhaps, but would have caused so very many problems for other people in that time period. While the story was a well-written nod to – I believe – Ferris Bueler’s Day Off – I just couldn’t get myself to love it. For me, it wasn’t just a contemporary story in period dress, it was a story written in a completely alternate universe. It was filled with twenty-first-century “woke” characters who were totally accepting and approving of anything and everything.
An alternate universe where in the early 1800s …
• Gay men could live together openly and affectionately with no threat of the death penalty or social ostracizing. Where they could continue with public careers as barristers, etc. without any censure or loss of standing or income.
• A man and woman could live together without matrimony and the woman still be totally accepted within society. Where their families and friends would totally accept the relationship and not give them the cut direct. Where that relationship wouldn’t directly affect the social standing and social acceptance of her children – even the titled children.
This was a new-to-me author and I was looking forward to reading my first book written by her. However, I can’t say that I would read another. I know there are many readers out there who will read and love the book because they don’t mind that nothing about it represents any sort of historical reality. For me personally, I don’t understand why the author wouldn’t just write a contemporary story rather than trying to dress it in period clothing.
One more thought. If the roles were reversed and Duncan was the one who wouldn’t marry and he asked Beatrice to become his mistress instead, we’d all be incensed. How dare he, in that time period, do that to a respectable woman. Yet, we’re supposed to cheer them on when the reverse happens.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 2/23/21
Number of Pages: 368
** 2.5 Stars Rounded Up **
I loved our male lead, thirty-four-year-old Major Duncan McCameron. He is one of those strong, fearless, stoic men who are really marshmallows inside. After being raised by an uptight family and then spending twenty years in the military, Duncan is a rule follower. That is one of the reasons he did so well in the military. Yet, since he’s home from the wars, he feels restless and unsettled. What he had wanted – and still wanted really – was a wife and family, yet it seems beyond him to make that happen.
Beatrice Sloane, forty-six-year-old dowager countess of Farris, is finally free from her oppressive marriage and she fully intends to revel in absolutely every aspect of life from this point forward – and – she will absolutely never, under any circumstances, marry again. Frankly, I didn’t care for Beatrice – I really tried to like her, but I just couldn’t get there. Evidently, she didn’t care how much pain she caused Duncan – nor did she give the stigma her activities would cause her family any consideration at all. She didn’t seem to care – if she wanted to do it, she did it.
Beatrice intends to travel to Nottinghamshire to attend a week-long orgy at the home of Lord Gibbs. After having an inattentive husband, she was looking forward to a week of pleasure. Neither she nor Duncan was pleased when their mutual friend, the Duke of Rotherby, asked Duncan to escort Beatrice to assure she arrived safely. Rotherby convinces them and their adventure begins.
Along the way they have a lot of adventures – they stop to help deliver lambs, they have a coach accident, they encounter thieves – and they have lots and lots and lots and lots of intimate times together. I actually felt the ‘story’ part was just a way to stitch all of the intimate scenes together.
In all of the years I have been reading books and writing reviews, I have only given a 2.5-star rating a handful of times. I’m sad to say this is one of those times. I didn’t even get what I consider – for the period – to be a Happily Ever After. What we got would fit in today’s world perhaps, but would have caused so very many problems for other people in that time period. While the story was a well-written nod to – I believe – Ferris Bueler’s Day Off – I just couldn’t get myself to love it. For me, it wasn’t just a contemporary story in period dress, it was a story written in a completely alternate universe. It was filled with twenty-first-century “woke” characters who were totally accepting and approving of anything and everything.
An alternate universe where in the early 1800s …
• Gay men could live together openly and affectionately with no threat of the death penalty or social ostracizing. Where they could continue with public careers as barristers, etc. without any censure or loss of standing or income.
• A man and woman could live together without matrimony and the woman still be totally accepted within society. Where their families and friends would totally accept the relationship and not give them the cut direct. Where that relationship wouldn’t directly affect the social standing and social acceptance of her children – even the titled children.
This was a new-to-me author and I was looking forward to reading my first book written by her. However, I can’t say that I would read another. I know there are many readers out there who will read and love the book because they don’t mind that nothing about it represents any sort of historical reality. For me personally, I don’t understand why the author wouldn’t just write a contemporary story rather than trying to dress it in period clothing.
One more thought. If the roles were reversed and Duncan was the one who wouldn’t marry and he asked Beatrice to become his mistress instead, we’d all be incensed. How dare he, in that time period, do that to a respectable woman. Yet, we’re supposed to cheer them on when the reverse happens.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 7, 2021
*3.5 stars*
The more I sat on my review of Waiting for a Scot Like You by Eva Leigh, the more I ended up liking the story. Sometimes, you need to let these kinds of things marinate to discover your true feelings.
I can't help be enthralled at a huge age gap between the MCs and the woman is older. That is so exceedingly rare in romance, especially historical romance, that it's absolutely worth noting. I loved how the female MC reveled in her newfound sexuality, and how she was wiling to explore those feelings to the fullest.
I also enjoyed the more uptight male MC, though I feel like his portrayal wavered a bit too much over time. For someone practically obsessed with propriety, he really changed a lot during the course of the story. I did feel a bit bad for him because I felt like he was the one making all of the sacrifices for the relationship, but I felt the chemistry between him and the female MC in the end.
I really liked all of the outlandish adventures these two found themselves in, and I really liked the heat content. I think the plot grew a bit tedious over time and I felt my attention start to waver, though the humor kept me going. Overall, it was a fun story.
I think Waiting for a Scot Like You has a lot of positive aspects, even if I wasn't fully rooting for this couple the whole time. Still, the book was a strong addition to the Union of the Rakes series.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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The more I sat on my review of Waiting for a Scot Like You by Eva Leigh, the more I ended up liking the story. Sometimes, you need to let these kinds of things marinate to discover your true feelings.
I can't help be enthralled at a huge age gap between the MCs and the woman is older. That is so exceedingly rare in romance, especially historical romance, that it's absolutely worth noting. I loved how the female MC reveled in her newfound sexuality, and how she was wiling to explore those feelings to the fullest.
I also enjoyed the more uptight male MC, though I feel like his portrayal wavered a bit too much over time. For someone practically obsessed with propriety, he really changed a lot during the course of the story. I did feel a bit bad for him because I felt like he was the one making all of the sacrifices for the relationship, but I felt the chemistry between him and the female MC in the end.
I really liked all of the outlandish adventures these two found themselves in, and I really liked the heat content. I think the plot grew a bit tedious over time and I felt my attention start to waver, though the humor kept me going. Overall, it was a fun story.
I think Waiting for a Scot Like You has a lot of positive aspects, even if I wasn't fully rooting for this couple the whole time. Still, the book was a strong addition to the Union of the Rakes series.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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February 8, 2021
Lady Beatrice Farris is a widow, she's raised her children, lived a life with no agency and little pleasure, and now that she has freedom to live the life she chooses she rushes to do it, stopping along the way to take pleasure and joy where she finds it. Captain Duncan McCameron is tasked with escorting her to her chosen destination which is: an orgy.
Duncan is a man of honor and responsibility and is finding the adjustment of living in peace times hard. Beatrice draws him out and encourages him to find joy in small things and take pleasure and happiness when it's in front of you.
The two are drawn together, undeniably. A road trip gone wrong with lots of adventures and reasons to be in close proximity in compromising positions and soon sparks ignite.
Duncan is a stern, grunty Scotsman, dominant in bed but always respectful and tender with his woman. Beatrice is fierce in pursuing the life of her dreams and tired of living a life she doesn't want. There's only one bed. Multiple times. References to Ferris Buehler's Day Off and Footloose were delightful.
This book was a ton of fun, swoony, steamy, and a beautiful tone of love always winning despite the odds.
Duncan is a man of honor and responsibility and is finding the adjustment of living in peace times hard. Beatrice draws him out and encourages him to find joy in small things and take pleasure and happiness when it's in front of you.
The two are drawn together, undeniably. A road trip gone wrong with lots of adventures and reasons to be in close proximity in compromising positions and soon sparks ignite.
Duncan is a stern, grunty Scotsman, dominant in bed but always respectful and tender with his woman. Beatrice is fierce in pursuing the life of her dreams and tired of living a life she doesn't want. There's only one bed. Multiple times. References to Ferris Buehler's Day Off and Footloose were delightful.
This book was a ton of fun, swoony, steamy, and a beautiful tone of love always winning despite the odds.
September 2, 2022
I was excited to read this historical, especially because it has an older heroine and younger hero, but it was really slow and I was mostly bored. The hero had to escort the heroine to a *scandalous* party she wants to attend. They have to share rooms at some points and get into some bad situations. It was fine, but I just wasn't in love with the story. The characters weren't my favorite and I just didn't care about them finding their HEA together. It wasn't a bad story, nothing just hooked me.
August 24, 2020
This is the third installment to Eva Leigh's Union of the Rakes series. It's fine as a stand alone novel. Most of the book is focused on just the couple, though there are appearances and mentionings of the other characters in the series. She usually has a little bit of a teaser regarding the next couple in her books.
This series is a loose take on the breakfast club movie, that I never watched, so I guess I'm missing out here hahaha. I have seen in other reviews there's plenty of 80's references, that also go over my head, but others might really love finding these.
This book wasn't at all what I was thinking it was going to be going in. Lady Farris has been widowed for 3 years and out of mourning for 10 months. Beatrice is ready to experience life, and by that I mean attend her first orgy at a house party. First time I think I've ever read an orgy mentioned in HR haha.
Duncan McCameron is a rule follower. Rigid and a bit set in his ways, he really just wants love. He thought he had it years ago, but was badly hurt and just aches for marriage to someone he can spend the rest of his life with. He's watched 2 of his friends in the union of rakes find their happily ever afters and he's starting to feel the sting of loneliness all the more.
Duncan's friend, the Duke of Rotherby, is asking him to escort his friend to her country gathering. He agrees and they are soon on a road trip adventure that includes non stop adventure and plenty of sexy bits.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-Very light vulgar language – uses the f word (31 times), and a few other terms that aren't 'standard' for HR
-Story takes place in 1817 London and traveling to a country estate
-Road trip romance – this book is almost exclusively road trip fun. They are only in one place for any length of time in the very beginning and very end and neither takes up too much page time.
-An “older” heroine – she has silver lining her hair and is 46
-Older woman/reverse age gap – heroine is 46 and hero is 34
-Strong feminist themes – this hero doesn't have a problem with asking for help from the heroine, there's discussions on woman's rights, sexual independence of women and their choice of partners
-Lifting up diversity in the world – acknowledging inn keepers ethnic heritage, embracing LGBTQIA couples and individuals, discussing income coming from slavery and changing it for the better
-Zero consent issues – consent plays a role in Leigh's couple's interactions and is either specifically asked or heavily implied
-The HEA isn't quite what you'd expect, but embraces the fact that the standard romance marriage and a baby in the epilogue isn't always what happiness is about
-Soldiers – the hero is a Major and talks a bit about his experience
-Experienced heroine – she's a widow and has 3 grown children. She is ready to enjoy her sexual freedom, since marriage wasn't the best experience for her
-STEAMY – multiple kisses and scenes. See end of review for amounts found in book under spoiler warning.
I think so many will adore this book, and I strongly encourage everyone to try it. She's a fresh voice in the sea of romance that will hit so many desired boxes wanted in romance now. However, for me personally, there's been something about her heroes in this series that just doesn't do it for me. I can love a beta hero, but they really aren't my “thing”. And while Duncan definitely isn't beta in the bedroom, it's just the overall feel of the relationship that wasn't my favorite. I haven't loved any of these heroes. The heroines too, are just okay to me. They don't strike me as people I would want to be friends with, and that does affect how much I love my heroines. Neither of them annoy me though. They just don't reach the next level of loving and caring about the characters for me.
This book is extremely steamy with multiple, well developed scenes. But I found myself liking the sex, but not exactly caring about it. Much of it just felt like sex to me without that added emotion that I crave.
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. These thoughts and opinions regarding this story are my own.
Locations/amounts of kisses and sex scenes in the book
This series is a loose take on the breakfast club movie, that I never watched, so I guess I'm missing out here hahaha. I have seen in other reviews there's plenty of 80's references, that also go over my head, but others might really love finding these.
This book wasn't at all what I was thinking it was going to be going in. Lady Farris has been widowed for 3 years and out of mourning for 10 months. Beatrice is ready to experience life, and by that I mean attend her first orgy at a house party. First time I think I've ever read an orgy mentioned in HR haha.
Duncan McCameron is a rule follower. Rigid and a bit set in his ways, he really just wants love. He thought he had it years ago, but was badly hurt and just aches for marriage to someone he can spend the rest of his life with. He's watched 2 of his friends in the union of rakes find their happily ever afters and he's starting to feel the sting of loneliness all the more.
Duncan's friend, the Duke of Rotherby, is asking him to escort his friend to her country gathering. He agrees and they are soon on a road trip adventure that includes non stop adventure and plenty of sexy bits.
Give this book a try if you are in the mood for:
-Very light vulgar language – uses the f word (31 times), and a few other terms that aren't 'standard' for HR
-Story takes place in 1817 London and traveling to a country estate
-Road trip romance – this book is almost exclusively road trip fun. They are only in one place for any length of time in the very beginning and very end and neither takes up too much page time.
-An “older” heroine – she has silver lining her hair and is 46
-Older woman/reverse age gap – heroine is 46 and hero is 34
-Strong feminist themes – this hero doesn't have a problem with asking for help from the heroine, there's discussions on woman's rights, sexual independence of women and their choice of partners
-Lifting up diversity in the world – acknowledging inn keepers ethnic heritage, embracing LGBTQIA couples and individuals, discussing income coming from slavery and changing it for the better
-Zero consent issues – consent plays a role in Leigh's couple's interactions and is either specifically asked or heavily implied
-The HEA isn't quite what you'd expect, but embraces the fact that the standard romance marriage and a baby in the epilogue isn't always what happiness is about
-Soldiers – the hero is a Major and talks a bit about his experience
-Experienced heroine – she's a widow and has 3 grown children. She is ready to enjoy her sexual freedom, since marriage wasn't the best experience for her
-STEAMY – multiple kisses and scenes. See end of review for amounts found in book under spoiler warning.
I think so many will adore this book, and I strongly encourage everyone to try it. She's a fresh voice in the sea of romance that will hit so many desired boxes wanted in romance now. However, for me personally, there's been something about her heroes in this series that just doesn't do it for me. I can love a beta hero, but they really aren't my “thing”. And while Duncan definitely isn't beta in the bedroom, it's just the overall feel of the relationship that wasn't my favorite. I haven't loved any of these heroes. The heroines too, are just okay to me. They don't strike me as people I would want to be friends with, and that does affect how much I love my heroines. Neither of them annoy me though. They just don't reach the next level of loving and caring about the characters for me.
This book is extremely steamy with multiple, well developed scenes. But I found myself liking the sex, but not exactly caring about it. Much of it just felt like sex to me without that added emotion that I crave.
3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. These thoughts and opinions regarding this story are my own.
Locations/amounts of kisses and sex scenes in the book
April 9, 2022
✨Ferris Bueller but it fucks, a lot 🥵✨
The Scottish accent was alarming in the audiobook like the sex scenes felt a little more angry than sexy to me but I’m here for it, why? Because this book was HOT. So hot that if you were planning to read this in public or without headphones, don’t. I think Eva Leigh’s dirty talk is my favorite. She loves filthy, crude words that set the mood and tone instead of “Oo baby, oh baby girl.” Like her characters fuck because they have the mouths to keep up and know how to properly use them. The bedroom talk had substantial depth for the character growth and really set my house on fire.
I mean the premise is centered around her going to an orgy so this book best be hot right? CORRECT. Obviously it’s hot because of the main couple and no actual orgy occurred (just in case you were hoping they’d both get in on the action). Duncan was an orgy in his own right though, sweet Jesus.
I loved the dynamic between the two. He was all stoic and hearty but like’d being bad and dominant because that’s not something he usually does, while she was the frisky character who knew what she wanted while also discovering she likes his power and size.
I loved that she was 46 and had three children who were all decent! And that her dead husband was well, dead, and that he wasn’t much of a factor in the story. All we know about him is that he was no good in the bedroom and Beatrice was SICK of it. Also the ending was lovely and different and really tugged on ye olde heartstrings. I would have maybe wish for a bit more plot or pizazz, but this is truly a book about Duncan and Beatrice as characters. I also understood some of the 80s references but I’m excited to find out which ones I missed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
The Scottish accent was alarming in the audiobook like the sex scenes felt a little more angry than sexy to me but I’m here for it, why? Because this book was HOT. So hot that if you were planning to read this in public or without headphones, don’t. I think Eva Leigh’s dirty talk is my favorite. She loves filthy, crude words that set the mood and tone instead of “Oo baby, oh baby girl.” Like her characters fuck because they have the mouths to keep up and know how to properly use them. The bedroom talk had substantial depth for the character growth and really set my house on fire.
I mean the premise is centered around her going to an orgy so this book best be hot right? CORRECT. Obviously it’s hot because of the main couple and no actual orgy occurred (just in case you were hoping they’d both get in on the action). Duncan was an orgy in his own right though, sweet Jesus.
I loved the dynamic between the two. He was all stoic and hearty but like’d being bad and dominant because that’s not something he usually does, while she was the frisky character who knew what she wanted while also discovering she likes his power and size.
I loved that she was 46 and had three children who were all decent! And that her dead husband was well, dead, and that he wasn’t much of a factor in the story. All we know about him is that he was no good in the bedroom and Beatrice was SICK of it. Also the ending was lovely and different and really tugged on ye olde heartstrings. I would have maybe wish for a bit more plot or pizazz, but this is truly a book about Duncan and Beatrice as characters. I also understood some of the 80s references but I’m excited to find out which ones I missed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.75/5
January 19, 2021
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
Steamy historical romance inspired by Ferris Bueller's Day off?! Yes, really! With nods to Footloose & Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure as well, which was in fact quite excellent. I've been loving this series inspired by 80's teen movies and Waiting for a Scot Like You rounds things out with a wild romp involving a widow determined to live life to the fullest and the uptight military veteran who's supposed to protect her on a cross-country journey.
This isn't my personal favorite blend of tropes, but I definitely had a good time with it and things end up getting QUITE steamy as well, including mild power play elements with a dominant (but kind) hero. This also felt most clearly influenced by the movies to me (though it could be I just picked up on more of it) extending even to a line of dialogue: "Anyone? Anyone?" and that made me laugh. Definitely worth a try if this is up your alley! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Steamy historical romance inspired by Ferris Bueller's Day off?! Yes, really! With nods to Footloose & Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure as well, which was in fact quite excellent. I've been loving this series inspired by 80's teen movies and Waiting for a Scot Like You rounds things out with a wild romp involving a widow determined to live life to the fullest and the uptight military veteran who's supposed to protect her on a cross-country journey.
This isn't my personal favorite blend of tropes, but I definitely had a good time with it and things end up getting QUITE steamy as well, including mild power play elements with a dominant (but kind) hero. This also felt most clearly influenced by the movies to me (though it could be I just picked up on more of it) extending even to a line of dialogue: "Anyone? Anyone?" and that made me laugh. Definitely worth a try if this is up your alley! I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 12, 2021
Feeling restless and aimless, Major Duncan McCameron agrees to do his friend a favor and escort Lady Beatrice, the Dowager Countess of Farris, on a journey. After surviving a miserable marriage, Beatrice is looking forward to freedom and a house party full of debauchery. She wants to be carefree, not follow Duncan's silly schedules and plans. When a carriage accident creates a snowball effect of misfortunes, it leads to the characters reconsidering their priorities.
This is the third book in the Union of Rakes series, but can be read alone. There are some mentions of the previous couples, as well as drops from Leigh's book, Temptations of a Wallflower. This story is also a wink to 80s movie culture with references to The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller, Sixteen Candles, and Footloose.
Age gap romances are usually my least favorite trope, but I couldn't help but root for these characters. Duncan is searching for connection and purpose; Beatrice is finally able to be herself and seek out new experiences. The road trip goes awry and becomes a little farcical, but it's fun and highly enjoyable. When they come together, it's sizzling hot! The scenes are super steamy and their sexy bedroom banter scorches the pages! 4.5 stars rounded to five.
Tropes: Age Gap Romance, Older Heroine, Road Trip
Eggplant Rating: 5 (two double oral scenes, two full scenes, one shorter scene)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #WaitingforaScotLikeYou #NetGalley
This is the third book in the Union of Rakes series, but can be read alone. There are some mentions of the previous couples, as well as drops from Leigh's book, Temptations of a Wallflower. This story is also a wink to 80s movie culture with references to The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller, Sixteen Candles, and Footloose.
Age gap romances are usually my least favorite trope, but I couldn't help but root for these characters. Duncan is searching for connection and purpose; Beatrice is finally able to be herself and seek out new experiences. The road trip goes awry and becomes a little farcical, but it's fun and highly enjoyable. When they come together, it's sizzling hot! The scenes are super steamy and their sexy bedroom banter scorches the pages! 4.5 stars rounded to five.
Tropes: Age Gap Romance, Older Heroine, Road Trip
Eggplant Rating: 5 (two double oral scenes, two full scenes, one shorter scene)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #WaitingforaScotLikeYou #NetGalley
March 13, 2021
I loved this book! It’s very saucy, and the lengths the hero went to make the heroine happy had my heart swooning. The best part is the banter between the two, it’s hilarious. This is the my first older woman/younger man troupe.
Recently widowed, Lady Beatrice is 46, she’s raised her children and has led a very stifled life with her husband. She now has the freedom to go out and live a life of her own. In having her freedom now that she’s widowed she has her mind set on, I’m embarrassed to say.. attending an orgy. A friend decides for her safety she should have the former Scottish soldier, Major Duncan McCameron, protect/escort her to her destination. Duncan’s struggling with how to live now that it’s peacetime. He wants a wife and a family, badly.
He takes the job not knowing where they’re going, only to find out later. They have a powerful first attraction when meeting, a deep connection, and he’s really intrigued with her wanting to find her own happiness. This is their road trip to that destination where they fall for each other, but try NOT to fall for each other. Lady Beatrice isn’t looking for marriage. She had that and spent her life unhappy. And Duncan is afraid to start anything with her because he wants more than a one stand with her.
This is my first book from this author. I liked it so much I plan on picking up another from her. This was so well done, I definitely recommend it.
Recently widowed, Lady Beatrice is 46, she’s raised her children and has led a very stifled life with her husband. She now has the freedom to go out and live a life of her own. In having her freedom now that she’s widowed she has her mind set on, I’m embarrassed to say.. attending an orgy. A friend decides for her safety she should have the former Scottish soldier, Major Duncan McCameron, protect/escort her to her destination. Duncan’s struggling with how to live now that it’s peacetime. He wants a wife and a family, badly.
He takes the job not knowing where they’re going, only to find out later. They have a powerful first attraction when meeting, a deep connection, and he’s really intrigued with her wanting to find her own happiness. This is their road trip to that destination where they fall for each other, but try NOT to fall for each other. Lady Beatrice isn’t looking for marriage. She had that and spent her life unhappy. And Duncan is afraid to start anything with her because he wants more than a one stand with her.
This is my first book from this author. I liked it so much I plan on picking up another from her. This was so well done, I definitely recommend it.
February 23, 2021
Check out this review (and more) over on my blog!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Quick Stats:
Overall: 3.5/5 Stars
Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot and Themes: 2.5/5
Awesomeness Factor: 3/5
Review in a Nutshell: Waiting for a Scot Like You is a fun, quick regency romance with plenty of steam. While it isn’t my favorite in the Union of the Rakes series, I still did enjoy it.
// Content Warning: Violence, Mature Content, PTSD //
Release Date: 2/23/2021
Publisher: Avon
Page Count: 368
Premise:
Waiting for a Scot Like You follows Major Duncan McCameron, who is tasked with escorting Lady Farris to a house party. Easy, right? Except that Lady Farris, the Dowager Countess, is on a mission to live her life to the fullest and experience everything the world has to offer, which naturally conflicts with Major McCameron's strict, rule-following demeanor.
- My Thoughts -
I loved the previous books in this series, and I was really excited for Waiting for a Scot Like You, but I think my expectations might have been a little too high. Not to say it wasn’t good, it just didn’t blow me away like the first two books did.
First, let’s talk about the positives.
I know a lot of people are looking for steamy reads so you’ll be happy to hear that this book is definitely on the steamier side. I feel like each book in the Union of the Rakes series has a different level of steam, and this is the hottest. If you like a sweet and honorable hero with a dominant side? You’ll love this.
There’s also a lot of great humor in this book. This entire series is 80’s movies but in a regency setting, and I feel like it’s most evident in Waiting for a Scot Like You. There are a few not-so-subtle nods, that even I, someone who isn’t the biggest 80’s movie fan, was able to understand and enjoy.
That said, the humor and levity doesn’t get in the way of the growth of our two protagonists. They both had great development over the course of the book. Also, their dynamic was really entertaining to read (a stuffy and honorable soldier and a free-spirited, independent widow? You know you’re in for some fun).
I also want to mention- there are so many great tropes in this book. You name it, Waiting for a Scot Like You has it. While some weren’t really for me, the other tropes I did love made up for it.
So with all those positive things, why only 3.5 stars?
The plot.
I couldn’t really get into it. The characters take us from town to town, scene to scene, but nothing that happened in those scenes seemed to hook me. I found myself not really interested in what was going on around them. Certain moments felt predictable and borderline repetitive, and I found myself occasionally struggling to get through it. Also, the last second conflict seemed so easily fixable and avoidable that it was a little frustrating to read.
- Conclusion -
Pros- Good characters, funny, steamy
Cons- Plot didn’t hook me
Overall- 3.5/5 stars.
If you want a steamy regency adventure, this book is for you. However, I don’t think I’ll be rereading it like I will the other books in the series.
Follow Me Here: Blog ||Tumblr || Bookstagram || Twitter|| Reviews
Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Quick Stats:
Overall: 3.5/5 Stars
Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot and Themes: 2.5/5
Awesomeness Factor: 3/5
Review in a Nutshell: Waiting for a Scot Like You is a fun, quick regency romance with plenty of steam. While it isn’t my favorite in the Union of the Rakes series, I still did enjoy it.
// Content Warning: Violence, Mature Content, PTSD //
Release Date: 2/23/2021
Publisher: Avon
Page Count: 368
Premise:
Waiting for a Scot Like You follows Major Duncan McCameron, who is tasked with escorting Lady Farris to a house party. Easy, right? Except that Lady Farris, the Dowager Countess, is on a mission to live her life to the fullest and experience everything the world has to offer, which naturally conflicts with Major McCameron's strict, rule-following demeanor.
- My Thoughts -
I loved the previous books in this series, and I was really excited for Waiting for a Scot Like You, but I think my expectations might have been a little too high. Not to say it wasn’t good, it just didn’t blow me away like the first two books did.
First, let’s talk about the positives.
I know a lot of people are looking for steamy reads so you’ll be happy to hear that this book is definitely on the steamier side. I feel like each book in the Union of the Rakes series has a different level of steam, and this is the hottest. If you like a sweet and honorable hero with a dominant side? You’ll love this.
There’s also a lot of great humor in this book. This entire series is 80’s movies but in a regency setting, and I feel like it’s most evident in Waiting for a Scot Like You. There are a few not-so-subtle nods, that even I, someone who isn’t the biggest 80’s movie fan, was able to understand and enjoy.
That said, the humor and levity doesn’t get in the way of the growth of our two protagonists. They both had great development over the course of the book. Also, their dynamic was really entertaining to read (a stuffy and honorable soldier and a free-spirited, independent widow? You know you’re in for some fun).
I also want to mention- there are so many great tropes in this book. You name it, Waiting for a Scot Like You has it. While some weren’t really for me, the other tropes I did love made up for it.
So with all those positive things, why only 3.5 stars?
The plot.
I couldn’t really get into it. The characters take us from town to town, scene to scene, but nothing that happened in those scenes seemed to hook me. I found myself not really interested in what was going on around them. Certain moments felt predictable and borderline repetitive, and I found myself occasionally struggling to get through it. Also, the last second conflict seemed so easily fixable and avoidable that it was a little frustrating to read.
- Conclusion -
Pros- Good characters, funny, steamy
Cons- Plot didn’t hook me
Overall- 3.5/5 stars.
If you want a steamy regency adventure, this book is for you. However, I don’t think I’ll be rereading it like I will the other books in the series.
Follow Me Here: Blog ||Tumblr || Bookstagram || Twitter|| Reviews
February 23, 2021
I received an ARC from Netgalley and Mills and Boon in return for an honest review.
I know the author was inspired by 80s films for this series but quite frankly I never caught a single reference and I truly did not understand why she bothered setting the stories in the time period she chose. I know that authors of regency historical fiction want to make the female characters relevant to 21st-century readers but when history is ignored as comprehensively as the author does in this series, I really do wonder why she didn't simply write a contemporary romance where the characters would fit in perfectly.
I hate to be so critical when a writer is clearly talented and has put in so much effort into her writing but this book pushed the bounds of credibility so far that I was bounced out of the story too many times for comfort. Why ignore the reality of life in 1817 and pretend opportunities for women and gays were something that they were not?
The plethora of disasters that occurred to our hapless couple in what would have been a two-day coach journey simply stretched credulity to the limits. Coaches breaking down and falling into a gorge (did the author look at the topography of that area?), a ferry also collapsing, dancing being banned in a village and it went on and on.
I found Beatrice a difficult character to either like or understand. Why would she see an orgy as a natural activity to pursue? and believe that it would make her happy? That aspect of her goals was never properly explained as far as I was concerned.
I thought her behaviour towards Duncan was ultimately selfish, inexplicable, and thoughtless and if the situation had been reversed and it was Duncan refusing to marry Beatrice, I suspect he would have attracted opprobrium. The age gap between them is nothing in modern terms but it was odd that it was barely acknowledged let alone discussed until almost the end of the book.
I found it difficult to believe that a woman of Beatrice's age, background, and standing would have coped so amazingly well with all problems they encountered on their travels. I think that's because her motivations were never really properly explained.
Duncan was interesting - a fabulous hero and a very well-drawn character that I wanted to learn more about and one with whom I sympathised in that he was forced to do all the compromising so that he and Beatrice could be together.
I think if this story had been set in the present day, in the middle of a tropical rain forest or a desert for example, where the h/H were left to make their way through all kinds of obstacles - I would have enjoyed Beatrice's search for independence and self actualisation. Transposed to 1817 and ignoring the realities of every aspect of life at that time - especially for women - simply annoyed me. The one which really made me laugh out loud was the idea that Duncan would be able to get Lou (a female) employment in the building trade. This was difficult enough in the late 20th century in England and would have been impossible in 1817 unless it was a small family firm. Girls could not become apprentices, nor could they be journeymen. The hostility and prejudice for a girl trying would have been horrendous and risked all kinds of horrors.
A women's situation in the early 19th century was horrendous, but pretending that a woman could achieve anything she put her mind to is simply not authentic. . The author is a good writer, with flowing prose, superb dialogue, and intriguing plots. I expect I'll be in a minority but whilst this is a very well-written and entertaining story - it stretched credulity too far in so many areas that I lost interest.
I know the author was inspired by 80s films for this series but quite frankly I never caught a single reference and I truly did not understand why she bothered setting the stories in the time period she chose. I know that authors of regency historical fiction want to make the female characters relevant to 21st-century readers but when history is ignored as comprehensively as the author does in this series, I really do wonder why she didn't simply write a contemporary romance where the characters would fit in perfectly.
I hate to be so critical when a writer is clearly talented and has put in so much effort into her writing but this book pushed the bounds of credibility so far that I was bounced out of the story too many times for comfort. Why ignore the reality of life in 1817 and pretend opportunities for women and gays were something that they were not?
The plethora of disasters that occurred to our hapless couple in what would have been a two-day coach journey simply stretched credulity to the limits. Coaches breaking down and falling into a gorge (did the author look at the topography of that area?), a ferry also collapsing, dancing being banned in a village and it went on and on.
I found Beatrice a difficult character to either like or understand. Why would she see an orgy as a natural activity to pursue? and believe that it would make her happy? That aspect of her goals was never properly explained as far as I was concerned.
I thought her behaviour towards Duncan was ultimately selfish, inexplicable, and thoughtless and if the situation had been reversed and it was Duncan refusing to marry Beatrice, I suspect he would have attracted opprobrium. The age gap between them is nothing in modern terms but it was odd that it was barely acknowledged let alone discussed until almost the end of the book.
I found it difficult to believe that a woman of Beatrice's age, background, and standing would have coped so amazingly well with all problems they encountered on their travels. I think that's because her motivations were never really properly explained.
Duncan was interesting - a fabulous hero and a very well-drawn character that I wanted to learn more about and one with whom I sympathised in that he was forced to do all the compromising so that he and Beatrice could be together.
I think if this story had been set in the present day, in the middle of a tropical rain forest or a desert for example, where the h/H were left to make their way through all kinds of obstacles - I would have enjoyed Beatrice's search for independence and self actualisation. Transposed to 1817 and ignoring the realities of every aspect of life at that time - especially for women - simply annoyed me. The one which really made me laugh out loud was the idea that Duncan would be able to get Lou (a female) employment in the building trade. This was difficult enough in the late 20th century in England and would have been impossible in 1817 unless it was a small family firm. Girls could not become apprentices, nor could they be journeymen. The hostility and prejudice for a girl trying would have been horrendous and risked all kinds of horrors.
A women's situation in the early 19th century was horrendous, but pretending that a woman could achieve anything she put her mind to is simply not authentic. . The author is a good writer, with flowing prose, superb dialogue, and intriguing plots. I expect I'll be in a minority but whilst this is a very well-written and entertaining story - it stretched credulity too far in so many areas that I lost interest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 stars
➕ What I liked :
Older heroine (46)
Older woman and younger man romance.
(The hero is 34)
Road trip romance.
Rather unique end of the story.
(The couples HEA does Not end with marriage and children)
The heroine already has 3 adult children and does not want anymore.
(And she is rather adamant about this)
Has side characters that are diverse in many ways.
(LGBTQIA couple and different ethnic heritages etc.)
Widow heroine.
Strong heroine.
Good steam.
Some funny parts.
Interesting and good hero.
Scottish hero.
Good and interesting plot.
Not a very tall hero.
(Heroine noticed that the hero was not much taller than her when she stood close to him)
Good chemistry and romantic build-up.
➖ What I disliked:
The heroine talks rather negatively about her age (the heroine is 46…. but she sometimes kind of talks about herself like she is at least double that age…. But also she uses her age as an excuse among other things to push the hero away)
I wanted a little more confidence/self-assurance from the heroine.
(She was a strong woman and had built herself up after a bad marriage that was loveless, passionless and stifling… and she was a woman in her 40’s… but in some ways she was still almost naive but also contrary so she seemed younger than she was at times)
A little bit verbose.
September 7, 2021
This took forever for me to finish mostly because the plot was a lot for our heroine. She wanted to go to an orgy and have sexual exploration which is something for me to digest?? LMFAO. But overall, it's a tenderly sweet road trip grumpy sunshine bodyguard historical romance.
April 3, 2021
This was freaking delightful for start to finish.
November 9, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for a arc copy for a honest review.
Waiting For A Scot Like You was an enjoyable read there were plenty of 80’s references in my opinion I love the 80’s maybe that’s why I enjoyed reading this 5 star read ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
Waiting For A Scot Like You was an enjoyable read there were plenty of 80’s references in my opinion I love the 80’s maybe that’s why I enjoyed reading this 5 star read ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Happy Reading
Lisa
October 23, 2022
4.5 stars
Major Duncan McCameron has known nothing but discipline and war for years and is struggling to adjust to civilian life. When his friend the Duke of Rotherby asks him to escort a lady north it seems like an excellent getaway with a noble and useful purpose. He’s far less eager to depart when he learns the lady he’s to accompany is none other than Lady Farris, whose reckless disregard for the rules did not endear her to him the first time they met.
Beatrice, the Dowager Countess of Farris, is just rediscovering herself after years of being suffocated under her husband’s thumb and she has no intention of ever marrying again. Eager for new experiences, her destination is a week-long orgiastic house party and she’s looking forward to the road trip north as well. But now she’s trapped in a carriage with a stuffy, Scottish former soldier who doesn’t know how to have fun in the slightest. She begins to think she knows how to loosen him up a bit along the way.
Their trip is plagued with all manner of mishaps and new experiences, and the mild animosity between them electrifies into much more than either of them anticipated. But with a lady determined to experience everything and a strait-laced soldier who’s all too aware of duty and expectation, surely any attachment between them could only be temporary.
I was certain this was going to be a hands-down five star read for me and it was, up until the last ten percent or so. It seemed to me that Duncan did an awful lot of compromising while Beatrice wasn’t willing to give an inch. This undermined their relationship for me a bit because it made it seem as if she didn’t trust him, despite how often he’d proven himself to be very different from most men. Duncan wanted desperately to be loved and to have a place to belong and while he did get that it did still seem a bit incomplete to me. I adored Duncan as a hero. He struggled with PTSD and that vulnerability combined with the fact that sex meant something to him, and that he felt things so strongly just made me want to give him a hug. His rigid and rule-abiding exterior hid a sensitive, tender-hearted, modest man who could also be dominant in the bedroom. AKA the perfect hero. I did love that Beatrice brought Duncan out of his shell and helped him enjoy life and in turn he made her feel beautiful and accepted for who she was, I just wish she hadn’t been quite so rigid. This is one of the best road trip romances I’ve read, and I didn’t want to put it down. I do wish we’d gotten a scene with just Curtis and Rowe just to glimpse how things were resolved between them and perhaps another meeting of the Union, but I loved that the series ended with them all together again. I recommend this for anyone that wants a fun, fast-paced and steamy, but also sweet and emotional, read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Major Duncan McCameron has known nothing but discipline and war for years and is struggling to adjust to civilian life. When his friend the Duke of Rotherby asks him to escort a lady north it seems like an excellent getaway with a noble and useful purpose. He’s far less eager to depart when he learns the lady he’s to accompany is none other than Lady Farris, whose reckless disregard for the rules did not endear her to him the first time they met.
Beatrice, the Dowager Countess of Farris, is just rediscovering herself after years of being suffocated under her husband’s thumb and she has no intention of ever marrying again. Eager for new experiences, her destination is a week-long orgiastic house party and she’s looking forward to the road trip north as well. But now she’s trapped in a carriage with a stuffy, Scottish former soldier who doesn’t know how to have fun in the slightest. She begins to think she knows how to loosen him up a bit along the way.
Their trip is plagued with all manner of mishaps and new experiences, and the mild animosity between them electrifies into much more than either of them anticipated. But with a lady determined to experience everything and a strait-laced soldier who’s all too aware of duty and expectation, surely any attachment between them could only be temporary.
I was certain this was going to be a hands-down five star read for me and it was, up until the last ten percent or so. It seemed to me that Duncan did an awful lot of compromising while Beatrice wasn’t willing to give an inch. This undermined their relationship for me a bit because it made it seem as if she didn’t trust him, despite how often he’d proven himself to be very different from most men. Duncan wanted desperately to be loved and to have a place to belong and while he did get that it did still seem a bit incomplete to me. I adored Duncan as a hero. He struggled with PTSD and that vulnerability combined with the fact that sex meant something to him, and that he felt things so strongly just made me want to give him a hug. His rigid and rule-abiding exterior hid a sensitive, tender-hearted, modest man who could also be dominant in the bedroom. AKA the perfect hero. I did love that Beatrice brought Duncan out of his shell and helped him enjoy life and in turn he made her feel beautiful and accepted for who she was, I just wish she hadn’t been quite so rigid. This is one of the best road trip romances I’ve read, and I didn’t want to put it down. I do wish we’d gotten a scene with just Curtis and Rowe just to glimpse how things were resolved between them and perhaps another meeting of the Union, but I loved that the series ended with them all together again. I recommend this for anyone that wants a fun, fast-paced and steamy, but also sweet and emotional, read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
August 10, 2020
Best word to describe this read: HOT.
Let's be real, I wasn't expecting much from this but was left pleasantly surprised by the semi enemies turned lovers storyline that was happening. The scorching hot attraction between Beatrice and Duncan was woo-wee! The dirty talking was right up my alley, steamy scenes left me wanting more, the funny banter meant everything to me and how their relationship fell into place made this a fun-filled read.
The characters significantly Beatrice were a standout. The widow, who already had grown children and was 20+ years older than our dashing hero, was a straight shooter and filled with the confidence most heroines lack in romance novels. Shit in any novel. Besides that, what I enjoyed the most about this romance was the fact that the characters were more mature than what's accustomed. Duncan was thirty-four and Beatrice was late forties/early fifties. It was refreshing and well received on my end.
So would I recommend this? Hell yeah! Pick this up now, you won't regret it.
July 18, 2021
*4.25 ⭐️*
So so unexpectedly good!
✨ Road-trip, bodyguard romance
✨ Older heroine- in her 40s and with graying hair, who is on her way to an orgy (!!)
✨ Younger Scottish hero- in his 30s, a war veteran, a closet dominant *cough cough* 😏
✨ Casual LGBTQ and POC rep for side and background characters ❤️
✨ lots of references to 80s pop culture!
I would’ve not picked this up until much later if it weren't for the ladies of Seasonally Booked Up (Loved group-reading with them as always!)
The only flaws were that I wasn’t completely satisfied and had conflicted feelings about the ending, and I wasn’t that emotionally attached, especially to the side characters since I didn’t read the previous books as there’s some interactions with the friend group.
**Seasonally Booked Up #HotHighlanderSummer | Group Read**
*audio listened on libby
So so unexpectedly good!
✨ Road-trip, bodyguard romance
✨ Older heroine- in her 40s and with graying hair, who is on her way to an orgy (!!)
✨ Younger Scottish hero- in his 30s, a war veteran, a closet dominant *cough cough* 😏
✨ Casual LGBTQ and POC rep for side and background characters ❤️
✨ lots of references to 80s pop culture!
I would’ve not picked this up until much later if it weren't for the ladies of Seasonally Booked Up (Loved group-reading with them as always!)
The only flaws were that I wasn’t completely satisfied and had conflicted feelings about the ending, and I wasn’t that emotionally attached, especially to the side characters since I didn’t read the previous books as there’s some interactions with the friend group.
**Seasonally Booked Up #HotHighlanderSummer | Group Read**
*audio listened on libby
February 6, 2021
Waiting for a Scot Like You was a rollicking roadtrip adventure with so much sexual chemistry the carriage should have left flame tracks like a Delorean behind it.
Major Duncan McCameron is a stern rule follower in the streets and rule maker in the sheets, and made sure our Lady Farris was taken care of in all the ways.
I especially appreciated the age-gap (Duncan is 12 years younger than Beatrice who is a widower) and how Lady Farris refused to compromise her position in life.
You all need this, and please DM me when you hit the nod to Footloose!
Thank you to Avon and Edelweiss+ for the advanced reading copy.
Major Duncan McCameron is a stern rule follower in the streets and rule maker in the sheets, and made sure our Lady Farris was taken care of in all the ways.
I especially appreciated the age-gap (Duncan is 12 years younger than Beatrice who is a widower) and how Lady Farris refused to compromise her position in life.
You all need this, and please DM me when you hit the nod to Footloose!
Thank you to Avon and Edelweiss+ for the advanced reading copy.
March 6, 2021
So I'd give this 2.5 *rounded up to 3*. It was well written but just not for me.
There is an age difference between the characters and while usually in HR the men are older, in this one the woman is. That wasn't a problem or anything, I just thought it would be worthwhile to mention lol
Too much happens in this book. I am the last person to be reading HR for accuracy but jeez. When a simple trip to the country turns into a carriage accident, inclement weather, tavern brawl, hostage situation, crashing a wedding, planning an illegal dance, and more at some I was just kinda hoping the next page they'd finally arrive without any more shenanigans.
The 80s movies references were fun and I'm sure that I missed a whole bunch. The book is based on Ferris Buellers Day Off (Characters are named Lady Ferris, Major McCameron and they go by the married name Mr. and Mrs. Frye) but when they arrived at Beaumont (aka Bomont from Footloose) and were told dancing was illegal my reaction was "seriously?"
It felt out of nowhere and did it really contribute anything to the plot? Not really.
As for the ending, I really don't feel like Duncan got his HEA. Marriage was always something he seemed to revere and really want. Throughout the book with him talking about it and just his dreams of getting it, it felt like him not getting it was a punch in the gut. I realize why Ferris didn't want to marry and she has her reasons, but because of those I just don't think they really were a terrible compatible couple. Beyond the bedroom, I can't say I saw too much chemistry.
There is an age difference between the characters and while usually in HR the men are older, in this one the woman is. That wasn't a problem or anything, I just thought it would be worthwhile to mention lol
Too much happens in this book. I am the last person to be reading HR for accuracy but jeez. When a simple trip to the country turns into a carriage accident, inclement weather, tavern brawl, hostage situation, crashing a wedding, planning an illegal dance, and more at some I was just kinda hoping the next page they'd finally arrive without any more shenanigans.
The 80s movies references were fun and I'm sure that I missed a whole bunch. The book is based on Ferris Buellers Day Off (Characters are named Lady Ferris, Major McCameron and they go by the married name Mr. and Mrs. Frye) but when they arrived at Beaumont (aka Bomont from Footloose) and were told dancing was illegal my reaction was "seriously?"
It felt out of nowhere and did it really contribute anything to the plot? Not really.
As for the ending, I really don't feel like Duncan got his HEA. Marriage was always something he seemed to revere and really want. Throughout the book with him talking about it and just his dreams of getting it, it felt like him not getting it was a punch in the gut. I realize why Ferris didn't want to marry and she has her reasons, but because of those I just don't think they really were a terrible compatible couple. Beyond the bedroom, I can't say I saw too much chemistry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2021
aaahhhh..
I didn't like this one..
I would definitely dnf it this wasn't an audiobook
I didn't like this one..
I would definitely dnf it this wasn't an audiobook
July 16, 2024
❤️ older heroine
❤️ ex-soldier hero
❤️ only one bed
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ roadtrip shenanigans
❤️ spicy
❤️ ex-soldier hero
❤️ only one bed
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ roadtrip shenanigans
❤️ spicy
February 23, 2021
A romance about a mature widow trying to find her identity after a aristocratic cold marriage. We start the story with her on her way to an orgy for the weekend and she is being accompanied by younger Duncan to protect her on her journey, a former General (in his 30's).They have chemistry and after some one bed situations find themselves in some steamy situations.
I liked that this was a woman in her late 40's that was in those days well past her prime. But it seems the orgy really did want her there and there were bets on who would get her so Duncan did have competition, though not serious relationship competition, just sex.
I also liked that Duncan was a tough man that was in touch with his emotions and what he wanted in life and kind of a Dom. Lol
I did read some reviews that there were parts of the book that seemed like it was in an alternate history than ours since there was a happy gay couple. I only saw two men telling their friend that they were together. It didn't seem like they told all of society that they were sleeping together. There were gay people then, how did they live I wonder? I want to see more gay couples in historical books cause it's not new. I'm sure they didn't tell anyone but those they trusted.
Also, that they didn't get married and lived together. She was a widow and though it's frowned on its not inconceivable that with them being friends with a Duke that it wouldn't have happened. Widows have more leeway than debutantes especially since she was titled, idk.
I liked that this was a woman in her late 40's that was in those days well past her prime. But it seems the orgy really did want her there and there were bets on who would get her so Duncan did have competition, though not serious relationship competition, just sex.
I also liked that Duncan was a tough man that was in touch with his emotions and what he wanted in life and kind of a Dom. Lol
I did read some reviews that there were parts of the book that seemed like it was in an alternate history than ours since there was a happy gay couple. I only saw two men telling their friend that they were together. It didn't seem like they told all of society that they were sleeping together. There were gay people then, how did they live I wonder? I want to see more gay couples in historical books cause it's not new. I'm sure they didn't tell anyone but those they trusted.
Also, that they didn't get married and lived together. She was a widow and though it's frowned on its not inconceivable that with them being friends with a Duke that it wouldn't have happened. Widows have more leeway than debutantes especially since she was titled, idk.
February 24, 2021
y’all, I have been ~waiting~ for Duncan’s story since book one!!! I love me a Scottish hero, and when Eva dropped the little “oh btw he’s a dominant”💁🏻♀️ I was d e c e a s e d !! This book was everything I had hoped, and I’m so glad it’s out in the world today🧡
Beatrice & Duncan’s story was such a delight! I adored all the nods to 80/90s pop culture, and while I knew it was a play on Ferris Bueller it *totally* reminded me of the movie Leap Year with Matthew Goode (that man🥵) I also really loved the development of Beatrice & Duncan’s relationship— they started of a bit antagonistic, but then both open up & make themselves vulnerable and it just made my heart feel all warm & squishy🥰 I adored Beatrice’s spirit & the fact that she knew exactly what she wanted from life! And DUNCAN🔥🔥🔥 he is absolutely everything I want in a hero: caring, devoted, and ~real~ dirty & dominant🙌🏼
Waiting For A Scot Like You centers on Lady Beatrice Farris, newly widowed & leaving behind behind the yoke of a stifling marriage in style— by heading to an orgy in the country. Her escort, however, is the most straight laced, domineering Scotsman she’s clapped eyes on (though his features are certainly pleasing) While Major McCameron’s plains for a swift trip are quickly ruined by bad weather, poor directions, and a wedding, Beatrice will endeavor to enjoy herself— and the Major— along the way🧡
the only thing keeping this from being 5 stars is that it took a while for the story to gain momentum, for me. I liked the hijinks & the "he's boring, i'm fun" dichotomy, but I felt like it took a little too long to get to both a) the sexy bits and b) the more emotionally vulnerable/relational bits. but once we got both, i was fully engaged!
Beatrice & Duncan’s story was such a delight! I adored all the nods to 80/90s pop culture, and while I knew it was a play on Ferris Bueller it *totally* reminded me of the movie Leap Year with Matthew Goode (that man🥵) I also really loved the development of Beatrice & Duncan’s relationship— they started of a bit antagonistic, but then both open up & make themselves vulnerable and it just made my heart feel all warm & squishy🥰 I adored Beatrice’s spirit & the fact that she knew exactly what she wanted from life! And DUNCAN🔥🔥🔥 he is absolutely everything I want in a hero: caring, devoted, and ~real~ dirty & dominant🙌🏼
Waiting For A Scot Like You centers on Lady Beatrice Farris, newly widowed & leaving behind behind the yoke of a stifling marriage in style— by heading to an orgy in the country. Her escort, however, is the most straight laced, domineering Scotsman she’s clapped eyes on (though his features are certainly pleasing) While Major McCameron’s plains for a swift trip are quickly ruined by bad weather, poor directions, and a wedding, Beatrice will endeavor to enjoy herself— and the Major— along the way🧡
the only thing keeping this from being 5 stars is that it took a while for the story to gain momentum, for me. I liked the hijinks & the "he's boring, i'm fun" dichotomy, but I felt like it took a little too long to get to both a) the sexy bits and b) the more emotionally vulnerable/relational bits. but once we got both, i was fully engaged!
January 10, 2023
Waiting for A Scot Like You is the third and final book in Union of the Rakes series by Eva Leigh.
This book follows the third rake from the group, Major Duncan McCameron and a widowed mother we met in the previous book Lady Beatrice Farris.
These two had such different and contrasting personalities that it was really fun to see them clash together. Them journeying together pushed them into close quarters which made it even more enjoyable. I very much liked how confident, free spirited and joyous Beatrice was, her always riling up Duncan gave me a few good laughs.
But I still enjoyed it less than the other two because them on a road trip meant there were a lot of distractions too. I especially found the part with them staying with the Athertons and thwarting a robbery simply unncessary to the plot. It would have been so much better if the focus was put on strengthening the bond between the two.
Beatrice and Duncan having the misunderstanding and then it getting resolved so quickly also felt a bit rushed to me but then the epilogue happened and I absolutely loved it. Seeing all the rakes with their partners was delightful.
3 stars.
This book follows the third rake from the group, Major Duncan McCameron and a widowed mother we met in the previous book Lady Beatrice Farris.
These two had such different and contrasting personalities that it was really fun to see them clash together. Them journeying together pushed them into close quarters which made it even more enjoyable. I very much liked how confident, free spirited and joyous Beatrice was, her always riling up Duncan gave me a few good laughs.
But I still enjoyed it less than the other two because them on a road trip meant there were a lot of distractions too. I especially found the part with them staying with the Athertons and thwarting a robbery simply unncessary to the plot. It would have been so much better if the focus was put on strengthening the bond between the two.
Beatrice and Duncan having the misunderstanding and then it getting resolved so quickly also felt a bit rushed to me but then the epilogue happened and I absolutely loved it. Seeing all the rakes with their partners was delightful.
3 stars.
March 7, 2021
My favorite in the Union of the Rakes series! I felt this one was strong all the way through (unlike in several other Eva Leigh’s when I felt the book fell off during the third act conflict - like My Fake Rake and Temptations of a Wallflower).
The premise is a new-to-me favorite: an older, widowed woman looking for fun and a hero looking for something more. The heroine in this book was Lady Beatrice Farris, who we met in book two of the series. After being widowed a few years ago and being officially out of half-mourning, she is looking forward to enjoying life again, getting as much joy as she can, and re-learning who she is. She’s an absolute delight!
Major Duncan McCameron is one of my favorite types of heroes: a Scottish war vet who’s stern and brooding. He’s a stickler for time schedules and following the rules, and the happy, carefree widow irks him because she gets a rise out of him.
They have a road trip romance after their mutual friend requests Duncan escort her to the country… unknowingly, to an orgy she wants to partake in.
The book was just so fun. I loved the characters together and separately, and as someone who doesn’t love road trip romances, I really found myself enjoying the hijinx and issues they ran into. They were steamy and sweet together, and I felt there was definitely emotional payoff on both sides as they revealed their past and why they feel they cannot be together - Duncan, following the example of McCamerson men before him, wants to marry and settle down but doesn’t feel he’s anyone’s first choice. Beatrice, after being duty-bound as a wife for so many years, refuses to marry.
The third act conflict and resolution fit perfectly within the story, and I really liked the subplot with Duncan’s friends - the other two members of the Union of the Rakes, Curtis and Rowe.
The premise is a new-to-me favorite: an older, widowed woman looking for fun and a hero looking for something more. The heroine in this book was Lady Beatrice Farris, who we met in book two of the series. After being widowed a few years ago and being officially out of half-mourning, she is looking forward to enjoying life again, getting as much joy as she can, and re-learning who she is. She’s an absolute delight!
Major Duncan McCameron is one of my favorite types of heroes: a Scottish war vet who’s stern and brooding. He’s a stickler for time schedules and following the rules, and the happy, carefree widow irks him because she gets a rise out of him.
They have a road trip romance after their mutual friend requests Duncan escort her to the country… unknowingly, to an orgy she wants to partake in.
The book was just so fun. I loved the characters together and separately, and as someone who doesn’t love road trip romances, I really found myself enjoying the hijinx and issues they ran into. They were steamy and sweet together, and I felt there was definitely emotional payoff on both sides as they revealed their past and why they feel they cannot be together - Duncan, following the example of McCamerson men before him, wants to marry and settle down but doesn’t feel he’s anyone’s first choice. Beatrice, after being duty-bound as a wife for so many years, refuses to marry.
The third act conflict and resolution fit perfectly within the story, and I really liked the subplot with Duncan’s friends - the other two members of the Union of the Rakes, Curtis and Rowe.
February 14, 2021
I have loved this series from the start and have been waiting the entire time for Duncan’s book.
I love love love Beatrice and Duncan. She’s sassy and learning to come back to herself. He’s gruff and learning to settle down. Together they have instant irritation and chemistry and I loved reading their relationship progress.
Plot wise, it was fantastic. I enjoyed the idea that nearly anything that could go wrong, did and how they dealt with it. There were a lot of sweet moments and open conversation and I’m especially pleased that the angsty times didn’t last long. Of course, I could have gone with a million more pages at the epilogue, but I’m being greedy.
Overall, this was a great ending to the series and I know I’ll be coming back to these books again.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I love love love Beatrice and Duncan. She’s sassy and learning to come back to herself. He’s gruff and learning to settle down. Together they have instant irritation and chemistry and I loved reading their relationship progress.
Plot wise, it was fantastic. I enjoyed the idea that nearly anything that could go wrong, did and how they dealt with it. There were a lot of sweet moments and open conversation and I’m especially pleased that the angsty times didn’t last long. Of course, I could have gone with a million more pages at the epilogue, but I’m being greedy.
Overall, this was a great ending to the series and I know I’ll be coming back to these books again.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
May 26, 2021
This one was a definite letdown after the first two books in the series, both of which I really loved. I like the way Leigh writes, and that was still excellent here, but the story just didn't work as well. Some of this was a bad combination of plot and reader - I can like road trips, but they aren't a go-to favorite, either. I felt here like the road trip shenanigans (and there were a few too many for my taste) really got in the way of a lot of important character development. Especially because the real central conflict here was that Beatrice did not want to marry again (for reasons that were very understandable, if underdeveloped in the text), and Duncan really wanted marriage.
And really, the resolution on that central conflict happened way, way too quickly and easily for me, given how quickly it happened in the text and the year in which this story is set! When two romantic partners disagree on whether they ultimately want to marry, that's a big obstacle, and it requires a lot of care and finesse, especially in a historical. On the one hand, I like that he respected her decision not to want to marry again based on her bad first marriage (although, again, I think we needed at least a little more there, the book really seemed to talk around it rather than addressing it). On the other, while I can hand wave a lot in a historical, the whole he moves into her London townhouse and a few members of the ton are scandalized but otherwise it's fine thing from the epilogue was a step too far for me. Have him at least keep the pretense of bachelor lodgings and have it be the worst-kept secret.
I also feel like we really didn't get much in the way of his struggle to find purpose/not feel so lost. I guess we were supposed to understand that he found love and that fixed it, but there was probably more to be explored about his desire to feel useful and find purpose after his time in the army that just really wasn't addressed
ANYWAY, this book was perfectly fine, but there were too many road trip shenanigans in lieu of real character development, and then the ending came too fast. Just not as good as the first two in the series unfortunately. That said, I think I this was the first series I've read by Leigh, and I look forward to reading more from her.
And really, the resolution on that central conflict happened way, way too quickly and easily for me, given how quickly it happened in the text and the year in which this story is set! When two romantic partners disagree on whether they ultimately want to marry, that's a big obstacle, and it requires a lot of care and finesse, especially in a historical. On the one hand, I like that he respected her decision not to want to marry again based on her bad first marriage (although, again, I think we needed at least a little more there, the book really seemed to talk around it rather than addressing it). On the other, while I can hand wave a lot in a historical, the whole he moves into her London townhouse and a few members of the ton are scandalized but otherwise it's fine thing from the epilogue was a step too far for me. Have him at least keep the pretense of bachelor lodgings and have it be the worst-kept secret.
I also feel like we really didn't get much in the way of his struggle to find purpose/not feel so lost. I guess we were supposed to understand that he found love and that fixed it, but there was probably more to be explored about his desire to feel useful and find purpose after his time in the army that just really wasn't addressed
ANYWAY, this book was perfectly fine, but there were too many road trip shenanigans in lieu of real character development, and then the ending came too fast. Just not as good as the first two in the series unfortunately. That said, I think I this was the first series I've read by Leigh, and I look forward to reading more from her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2021
After finishing the second book in the Union of the Rakes a few days ago, I was ecstatic to be approved for the ARC of this third installment.
Now, I knew that these books were vaguely inspired by 1980s movies, but didn’t really notice that much in the first two books (I haven’t seen many 80s movies). But the references got a bit too on the nose for me here — the whole “we were more than our simple descriptors” bit at the end really pushed it over the edge. Plus a character literally saying “don’t you forget about me.”
The conflict between Duncan’s strict rule-following and Beatrice’s longed-for freedom is very compelling (is this supposed to be a Ferris Beuller spinoff?). Both of their positions make perfect sense, especially given their backgrounds. The climactic failure to communicate was a bit blah, but more than made up for by the reunion.
I LOVED the secondary romance of this book. I think there was a whole novel worth of story there (which I would have eagerly read), but it was sprinkled in and shown well in this book as well.
I generally just really like road trip stories. There are so many opportunities for drama, for confinement in a carriage, for “only one bed” moments. The pacing of their relationship was a bit off for me, but overall just super well done.
I’ve been recommending My Fake Rake for probably six months now, and I definitely recommend you finish out the series. Such fun!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book, provided via NetGalley.
Reposting for release day!
Now, I knew that these books were vaguely inspired by 1980s movies, but didn’t really notice that much in the first two books (I haven’t seen many 80s movies). But the references got a bit too on the nose for me here — the whole “we were more than our simple descriptors” bit at the end really pushed it over the edge. Plus a character literally saying “don’t you forget about me.”
The conflict between Duncan’s strict rule-following and Beatrice’s longed-for freedom is very compelling (is this supposed to be a Ferris Beuller spinoff?). Both of their positions make perfect sense, especially given their backgrounds. The climactic failure to communicate was a bit blah, but more than made up for by the reunion.
I LOVED the secondary romance of this book. I think there was a whole novel worth of story there (which I would have eagerly read), but it was sprinkled in and shown well in this book as well.
I generally just really like road trip stories. There are so many opportunities for drama, for confinement in a carriage, for “only one bed” moments. The pacing of their relationship was a bit off for me, but overall just super well done.
I’ve been recommending My Fake Rake for probably six months now, and I definitely recommend you finish out the series. Such fun!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book, provided via NetGalley.
Reposting for release day!
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