rainelle_barrett's review
4.0
The Rake of Hearts, by Emily Windsor. This story has brought some entertainment to my reading time. I so loved the romance that blossoms between Ernest and Hebe. I found it very sweet and charming. Redmond and Beatrice affair was a treat to read as well. I found the characters personalities a joy to read.
The certainty moved the entertainment along in the book. I understood the dialogue very well and I found it easy to follow along with theatrical of the story. A lot of the story reads with realism, from the writer’s description of details depicted within the story. There were a number of characters that brought some witty moments to the story, such as Beatrice, and the old man who ran the stables for Ernest father. I loved that this story was a page turner.
It left no room for being boring. For me this story was a very happily ever after love story.
The certainty moved the entertainment along in the book. I understood the dialogue very well and I found it easy to follow along with theatrical of the story. A lot of the story reads with realism, from the writer’s description of details depicted within the story. There were a number of characters that brought some witty moments to the story, such as Beatrice, and the old man who ran the stables for Ernest father. I loved that this story was a page turner.
It left no room for being boring. For me this story was a very happily ever after love story.
emma_caputi's review
challenging
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
In some parts I found it extremely boring and, compared to the first one of the series, not as funny or compelling. Personally I can’t stand Hebe, though Ernest is one of the best male characters ever
glo68's review
5.0
Wow, what a book! I looked forward to this new book by Emily Windsor, I had great expectations and I wasn’t disappointed AT ALL! In my opinion, she’s created a little masterpiece.
I must confess that I’ve always been partial to her writing, because I LOVED each and every one of her books. She has a knack for writing the most beautiful descriptions of places and people and she’s really outdone herself here. I usually skim over descriptions in a book, but in this case they’re an integral part to the story and they are never, NEVER boring. Indeed they’re veritable pieces of poetry. And the tales of local folklore of the English countryside are simply delightful, especially for a foreigner like me.
As for the characters, they’re wonderfully fleshed out. Ernest, whom we met in the previous book of the series in which he came across as a glib-tongued rake and an idler in stark contrast with his hard-working, serious brother, is revealed to be so much more than he seems. No spoilers, just read and see! And the same goes for Hebe, the cold beautiful widow he met and made a wager upon in the Duke of Diamonds. Needless to say, I loved both characters very much. I particularly enjoyed their banter at the beginning of the book and it was a pleasure to see their relationship grow gradually during the story.
But Emily did a wonderful job with the side characters as well. They’re well developed and not added as an afterthought as is often the case in romance books. Well, what else is there to say? If you love historical romance, you can’t do without this wonderful book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I must confess that I’ve always been partial to her writing, because I LOVED each and every one of her books. She has a knack for writing the most beautiful descriptions of places and people and she’s really outdone herself here. I usually skim over descriptions in a book, but in this case they’re an integral part to the story and they are never, NEVER boring. Indeed they’re veritable pieces of poetry. And the tales of local folklore of the English countryside are simply delightful, especially for a foreigner like me.
As for the characters, they’re wonderfully fleshed out. Ernest, whom we met in the previous book of the series in which he came across as a glib-tongued rake and an idler in stark contrast with his hard-working, serious brother, is revealed to be so much more than he seems. No spoilers, just read and see! And the same goes for Hebe, the cold beautiful widow he met and made a wager upon in the Duke of Diamonds. Needless to say, I loved both characters very much. I particularly enjoyed their banter at the beginning of the book and it was a pleasure to see their relationship grow gradually during the story.
But Emily did a wonderful job with the side characters as well. They’re well developed and not added as an afterthought as is often the case in romance books. Well, what else is there to say? If you love historical romance, you can’t do without this wonderful book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
dinipandareads's review
5.0
4.5 stars rounded up!
After meeting Ernest in his brother's story, [b:The Duke of Diamonds|50371681|The Duke of Diamonds (A Lady to Suit, #1)|Emily Windsor|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1584888307l/50371681._SY75_.jpg|75324267], and getting a glimpse of the potential romance between him and Mrs. Locke, I had a feeling that I'd love their story and I wasn't wrong! Who knew that a rake could be so devastatingly sweet? Honestly, if Ernest had pointedly looked at me over the top of his glasses across the table, I'd probably have swooned into my pudding too!
After meeting Ernest in his brother's story, [b:The Duke of Diamonds|50371681|The Duke of Diamonds (A Lady to Suit, #1)|Emily Windsor|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1584888307l/50371681._SY75_.jpg|75324267], and getting a glimpse of the potential romance between him and Mrs. Locke, I had a feeling that I'd love their story and I wasn't wrong! Who knew that a rake could be so devastatingly sweet? Honestly, if Ernest had pointedly looked at me over the top of his glasses across the table, I'd probably have swooned into my pudding too!
storieswithsoul's review
5.0
I loved how this book transported me back in time. That’s why I read historical fiction. The settings, characters, and the language all made it a worthy read. And it’s so well written that it is difficult to put down. The story is pretty straightforward, something often seen in historical romance novels; a hero who is rakish, but also sensitive and sweet; a heroine who is vulnerable, but also strong and determined. I quite enjoyed the romance between the two main characters, as well as the side characters. In fact, to be honest, I find Hebe’s aunt’s love story to be more intriguing and tragically beautiful.
Hebe is a widow who is trying to get over her abusive husband. Ernest is a Duke’s brother, a second son, who doesn’t want to live an idle life. The two become entangled during the summer at an enchanting castle. Ernest likes her blunt manners and the way she is always rude to him. He feels that there is a mystery behind it and wishes to unravel it. Hebe finds him attractive, but she also knows that many women are after him and he doesn’t hide the fact that he is a rake. Once burnt, twice shy. She wants nothing to do with him. However, fate might have something else in mind.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and find it a leisurely read. I would definitely recommend it to the lovers of historical romance.
P.S. I would like to thank the author for a complimentary copy of this book.
Hebe is a widow who is trying to get over her abusive husband. Ernest is a Duke’s brother, a second son, who doesn’t want to live an idle life. The two become entangled during the summer at an enchanting castle. Ernest likes her blunt manners and the way she is always rude to him. He feels that there is a mystery behind it and wishes to unravel it. Hebe finds him attractive, but she also knows that many women are after him and he doesn’t hide the fact that he is a rake. Once burnt, twice shy. She wants nothing to do with him. However, fate might have something else in mind.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and find it a leisurely read. I would definitely recommend it to the lovers of historical romance.
P.S. I would like to thank the author for a complimentary copy of this book.
onebookmore's review
5.0
The Rake of Hearts is the second book in The Games of Gentlemen series and it focuses on Ernest Brook, the younger brother of Casper from the first book. Ernest is a notorious rake known for melting women’s hearts with a look, but there is one woman who isn’t affected by his smoldering gaze and charm. Hebe Locke is a widow who has vowed never to fall for a rake again. She is delighted when she is commissioned by the Duke to travel to his castle and paint his horses. Though the Duke and his wife won’t be there, Ernest will, as he has taken over the breeding program at the castle.
Both Hebe and Ernest are starting over. Ernest is determined to prove that he’s not the frivolous and irresponsible man people think he is. Ernest longs for responsibility and loves working with horses, and he is excited to finally get the chance to show his skills. Hebe’s past was traumatic and difficult, and it made her trust in men and herself dwindle. She is learning to live again and is redefining her life now that she is free of her rotten husband.
Hebe is dismayed to learn that Ernest will be around while she works. She loathes rakes and hates that she is attracted to the charming man. However, as she gets to know Ernest, Hebe realizes that he is not the rake that he appears to be. The pair has fantastic chemistry from the start, and the depth of their feelings is lovely. Ernest’s feelings and revelations are particularly romantic, and I’m not surprised that so many women swoon near him. He’s a dream! However, unlike all of the other women he knows, Ernest has to work hard to win Hebe’s heart.
The banter between Hebe and Ernest is filled with chemistry. Both are quick-witted and funny when they want to be, and they have some great moments together. My favorite was when Ernest claims that one look from him caused a woman to swoon in her trifle. Hebe responds, “Perhaps the custard was off?” There are several comical conversations and scenes throughout the story, and there are equal amounts of heartwarming and romantic scenes.
The relationship between Ernest and Casper has grown and changed since the beginning of the series, which is another wonderful part of the story. The brothers seem more honest with each other, more personal, teasing, and trusting. I love that they were able to strengthen their bond and be more upfront about their feelings instead of hiding behind the societal expectations of behavior as they did at the start of the series.
Aunt Beatrice is another wonderful character! She is such a loving support to Hebe, and she has a vivacious personality. A wealthy widow, Beatrice has a bit more freedom in society, and she takes full advantage of this. She is a passionate woman who embraces life as one epic adventure, and she brings an exuberance to Hebe’s life that she desperately needs. Aunt Beatrice also has a bit of a romance, and it, too, is fantastic! I so rooted for this couple to have their second chance at love, and I was as invested in their story as I was in Hebe and Ernest’s.
Other secondary characters stand out, especially Grampy Tom. He is a hoot, and behind his gruff demeanor is a soft-hearted and compassionate man that really connects with Hebe. He’s a strong father figure, and I loved the scenes that included him. There is also a bit of a mystery surrounding stolen horses, which adds a bit of danger and suspense to the story.
This was such a great read! The characters are great, the dialogue is excellent, and the romances are swoon-tastic!! It is the second book in the series but can easily be read as a standalone. I actually read this book before I read The Duke of Diamonds (the first book in the series) and followed the story with no problem. Of course, I enjoyed this story so much that I immediately went back and read the first book, which was also wonderful!! I definitely recommend this book (and series) to readers of historical romance and am so thankful to Emily Windsor for providing me a copy it in exchange for my honest review.
Both Hebe and Ernest are starting over. Ernest is determined to prove that he’s not the frivolous and irresponsible man people think he is. Ernest longs for responsibility and loves working with horses, and he is excited to finally get the chance to show his skills. Hebe’s past was traumatic and difficult, and it made her trust in men and herself dwindle. She is learning to live again and is redefining her life now that she is free of her rotten husband.
Hebe is dismayed to learn that Ernest will be around while she works. She loathes rakes and hates that she is attracted to the charming man. However, as she gets to know Ernest, Hebe realizes that he is not the rake that he appears to be. The pair has fantastic chemistry from the start, and the depth of their feelings is lovely. Ernest’s feelings and revelations are particularly romantic, and I’m not surprised that so many women swoon near him. He’s a dream! However, unlike all of the other women he knows, Ernest has to work hard to win Hebe’s heart.
The banter between Hebe and Ernest is filled with chemistry. Both are quick-witted and funny when they want to be, and they have some great moments together. My favorite was when Ernest claims that one look from him caused a woman to swoon in her trifle. Hebe responds, “Perhaps the custard was off?” There are several comical conversations and scenes throughout the story, and there are equal amounts of heartwarming and romantic scenes.
The relationship between Ernest and Casper has grown and changed since the beginning of the series, which is another wonderful part of the story. The brothers seem more honest with each other, more personal, teasing, and trusting. I love that they were able to strengthen their bond and be more upfront about their feelings instead of hiding behind the societal expectations of behavior as they did at the start of the series.
Aunt Beatrice is another wonderful character! She is such a loving support to Hebe, and she has a vivacious personality. A wealthy widow, Beatrice has a bit more freedom in society, and she takes full advantage of this. She is a passionate woman who embraces life as one epic adventure, and she brings an exuberance to Hebe’s life that she desperately needs. Aunt Beatrice also has a bit of a romance, and it, too, is fantastic! I so rooted for this couple to have their second chance at love, and I was as invested in their story as I was in Hebe and Ernest’s.
Other secondary characters stand out, especially Grampy Tom. He is a hoot, and behind his gruff demeanor is a soft-hearted and compassionate man that really connects with Hebe. He’s a strong father figure, and I loved the scenes that included him. There is also a bit of a mystery surrounding stolen horses, which adds a bit of danger and suspense to the story.
This was such a great read! The characters are great, the dialogue is excellent, and the romances are swoon-tastic!! It is the second book in the series but can easily be read as a standalone. I actually read this book before I read The Duke of Diamonds (the first book in the series) and followed the story with no problem. Of course, I enjoyed this story so much that I immediately went back and read the first book, which was also wonderful!! I definitely recommend this book (and series) to readers of historical romance and am so thankful to Emily Windsor for providing me a copy it in exchange for my honest review.
amandasbookreview's review
"Join Hebe and discover whether Lord Ernest is a "depraved rake or a compassionate enchanter!"
Check out my full review at InD'Tale Magazine:
http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/2021/november/viewer/desktop/#page/78
Check out my full review at InD'Tale Magazine:
http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/2021/november/viewer/desktop/#page/78
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