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caitcoy's review
2.0
I was torn between giving this one two stars or three because while the plot was boring and for some reason not a mystery at all, the personalities of Ryder and especially Mary were entertaining and interesting. Ryder's father has died and put him in the position of finding a wife who will suit him. Mary Cynster wants to find her hero like all the other women in her family have. But Mary is intent on remaining in control of her husband and Ryder is about the most unmanageable man in her universe. The clash between the two was entertaining and funny in the way I've come to expect from Laurens. And I liked that Mary was so bossy. She wasn't afraid of who she was even if that intimidated many of the men she interacted with. And she never became so stubborn that she lost intelligence. Ryder was a typical Laurens male, confident, controlling and predatory (in a good way).
But oh God the plot. I don't require much from my romances because honestly plot isn't why I read them. But if you're going to have a villain stalking the main characters, I'd prefer that either it isn't that obvious who it is or the main characters aren't that unbelievably stupid. This is probably an odd comparison because I doubt there are that many videogame and romance fans, but it was a lot like watching Chris from Resident Evil 5. You watch them fumble around and get tossed from one ridiculously obvious situation to another and you just want to yell at them or slap the stupid out of them. And by the time they do FINALLY get it, you're so annoyed that just want to bash them over the head for being so stupid to begin with. It was enough to bother me through the whole thing. I don't know why I keep picking up new Laurens novels when they keep disappointing me in comparison to the old ones. The interaction between Mary and Ryder is entertaining but not enough to finish all 415 pages. Personally, I'd skip it and re-read some of the older ones.
But oh God the plot. I don't require much from my romances because honestly plot isn't why I read them. But if you're going to have a villain stalking the main characters, I'd prefer that either it isn't that obvious who it is or the main characters aren't that unbelievably stupid.
Spoiler
Given the multiple scenes where the villain complains about how much she hates Ryder and how much she just wishes he'd die already, Laurens was apparently relying on you not being 100% sure the villainess was really responsible for the mayhem to provide the mystery.seeinghowitgoes's review
1.0
Oh dear.
A plot that made no sense, a marriage that happened entirely too early and a villain that was rather ridiculous.
Combined with a truly schmaltzy epilogue filled with people who I couldn't remember!
A plot that made no sense, a marriage that happened entirely too early and a villain that was rather ridiculous.
Combined with a truly schmaltzy epilogue filled with people who I couldn't remember!
mflake's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
scoutmomskf's review
5.0
Fantastic book. I love the Cynsters series and this was another terrific one. Mary is ready to find herself a husband. She is very strong-willed and has no intention of giving up control of her life so she wants a husband she can manage. Ryder is definitely not the type of man she wants but he has set his sights on her, and like her he is determined to get what he wants.
Mary is a Cynster woman. She is independent, intelligent and strong willed. Most of the (non-Cynster) men she knows are the type who will do things their way and their wives have no say and she wants nothing to do with that type. She has set her sights on Ryder's younger brother, but as she puts her plans into motion Ryder keeps interfering. I loved the dialogue between her and Ryder from the very beginning. She doesn't hold back when talking to him and it doesn't take her long to discover that he is much more satisfying to converse with that his brother was. Pretty soon Ryder is the man on her mind but she is still reluctant to get involved with him. When she ends up in a position where marriage is the only option she decides to make the best of it. By this time she is starting to realize that Ryder is the one for her, but she also needs to make him realize that being partners is the best way to go on. One of the best quotes in the book is from a letter to Mary from Minerva, Duchess of Wolverstone: "Rather than go against them - which only results in immediately meeting the solid and instinctive wall of their resistance - I have found it pays to find a way to work with them. Once you make it clear you are entirely willing to find a way to solve whatever issue they have - that you are content to work alongside them rather than oppose them - the poor dears are usually so grateful they'll happily share the reins, and then one can steer the applecart in a more amenable direction." This makes sense to Mary and starts her evolving from the bossy control freak into a woman who knows the art of compromise. There were times that her take charge manner was exactly what was needed and others where it just didn't work. In the second half of the book they are trying to figure out who is trying to kill them. I enjoyed seeing them work together and how each was learning about the other.
Ryder was an interesting hero. He had determined that it was time for him to marry, but he wanted to do it his way without interference from matchmaking mamas. He had settled on Mary as his choice and was slightly dismayed to find her pursuing his brother. He knew that they would not suit, but also knew that she would resist his advances. I loved the way that he started out by simply getting in her way over his brother, then moved on to pursuing her somewhat subtly. I loved the way that when she finally figured it out she confronted him, he listened but told her he would have her. Ryder had settled on her because she was suitable, but soon realized that her wit and attitude really appealed to him. He also wanted her because, as a Cynster, she knew and appreciated the value of family. His own family was pretty fractured and he wanted her to help him build a family like hers. He was also determined to stay in control of his emotions, though that became increasingly harder. When he was attacked and nearly killed it was Mary who saved his life. It also put her in a compromising position that Ryder immediately took advantage of: "I haven't reached where I am today without learning to take advantage of every blessing Fate sends my way. So no, I won't be searching for any way to undo what Fate has done." I love the way that he seems to understand her so well. He is protective and possessive but he is also accepts that her traits are what make her the woman she is so he doesn't try to change her. He still spends a lot of time trying to convince himself that his emotions are still completely under his control, when they obviously are not. Especially as she becomes the focus of the attacks he begins to realize that he needs her in his life. The final one really brings it home as they fear they have really reached a point of no escape. I loved the way that the mystery of the attacks played out and how it allows the Cavanaugh family to move on.
One of the best parts of the book is the epilogue as the entire family gathers for its summer retreat. Honoria and the original Cynster brides talk about the family and how far it has come. The importance of family is reinforced as they note that Mary was the last of the current group to get married. They also talk about their children and what they will be like when it's their turn. I especially liked Honoria's thought about trying to manage Devil when their daughters come of age. I hope this sets the stage for books about the next generation, who will be living at the beginning of the Victorian period.
Mary is a Cynster woman. She is independent, intelligent and strong willed. Most of the (non-Cynster) men she knows are the type who will do things their way and their wives have no say and she wants nothing to do with that type. She has set her sights on Ryder's younger brother, but as she puts her plans into motion Ryder keeps interfering. I loved the dialogue between her and Ryder from the very beginning. She doesn't hold back when talking to him and it doesn't take her long to discover that he is much more satisfying to converse with that his brother was. Pretty soon Ryder is the man on her mind but she is still reluctant to get involved with him. When she ends up in a position where marriage is the only option she decides to make the best of it. By this time she is starting to realize that Ryder is the one for her, but she also needs to make him realize that being partners is the best way to go on. One of the best quotes in the book is from a letter to Mary from Minerva, Duchess of Wolverstone: "Rather than go against them - which only results in immediately meeting the solid and instinctive wall of their resistance - I have found it pays to find a way to work with them. Once you make it clear you are entirely willing to find a way to solve whatever issue they have - that you are content to work alongside them rather than oppose them - the poor dears are usually so grateful they'll happily share the reins, and then one can steer the applecart in a more amenable direction." This makes sense to Mary and starts her evolving from the bossy control freak into a woman who knows the art of compromise. There were times that her take charge manner was exactly what was needed and others where it just didn't work. In the second half of the book they are trying to figure out who is trying to kill them. I enjoyed seeing them work together and how each was learning about the other.
Ryder was an interesting hero. He had determined that it was time for him to marry, but he wanted to do it his way without interference from matchmaking mamas. He had settled on Mary as his choice and was slightly dismayed to find her pursuing his brother. He knew that they would not suit, but also knew that she would resist his advances. I loved the way that he started out by simply getting in her way over his brother, then moved on to pursuing her somewhat subtly. I loved the way that when she finally figured it out she confronted him, he listened but told her he would have her. Ryder had settled on her because she was suitable, but soon realized that her wit and attitude really appealed to him. He also wanted her because, as a Cynster, she knew and appreciated the value of family. His own family was pretty fractured and he wanted her to help him build a family like hers. He was also determined to stay in control of his emotions, though that became increasingly harder. When he was attacked and nearly killed it was Mary who saved his life. It also put her in a compromising position that Ryder immediately took advantage of: "I haven't reached where I am today without learning to take advantage of every blessing Fate sends my way. So no, I won't be searching for any way to undo what Fate has done." I love the way that he seems to understand her so well. He is protective and possessive but he is also accepts that her traits are what make her the woman she is so he doesn't try to change her. He still spends a lot of time trying to convince himself that his emotions are still completely under his control, when they obviously are not. Especially as she becomes the focus of the attacks he begins to realize that he needs her in his life. The final one really brings it home as they fear they have really reached a point of no escape. I loved the way that the mystery of the attacks played out and how it allows the Cavanaugh family to move on.
One of the best parts of the book is the epilogue as the entire family gathers for its summer retreat. Honoria and the original Cynster brides talk about the family and how far it has come. The importance of family is reinforced as they note that Mary was the last of the current group to get married. They also talk about their children and what they will be like when it's their turn. I especially liked Honoria's thought about trying to manage Devil when their daughters come of age. I hope this sets the stage for books about the next generation, who will be living at the beginning of the Victorian period.
laurenjodi's review against another edition
3.0
The Taming of Ryder Cavanaugh
3.5 Stars
Series note: This is book #2 in the Cynster Sister duology and the final book focusing on the original generation of Cynsters (beginning with Devil's Bride). The series continues with the next generation of Cynster children.
Mary Cynster, the only remaining unwed Cynster in her generation, has already chosen the man she believes to be her hero. Now she merely requires confirmation from the Lady's necklace. Unfortunately, fate has someone else in mind, someone completely unsuitable to Mary's way of thinking - Ryder Cavanaugh, Marquess of Raventhorne, the most unmanageable man in the ton. For Ryder, Mary is a challenge, and everyone knows he always wins.
The first half of the book focuses on Mary and Ryder's romance as he attempts to convince her that he is her destined hero. With that out of the way, the second half revolves around the mystery of who wants Ryder and/or Mary dead.
From the initial descriptions, Ryder is supposedly from the same commanding and powerful mold as Devil Cynster, Royce Varisey and Dominic Guisachan. While the potential is certainly there, he never completely succeeds in matching the forcefulness of these men's natures and personalities. With regard to his feelings for Mary, his reasons for choosing her as his wife are uninspired - it seems he is more attracted to the closely-knit Cynster clan than to Mary herself.
Mary herself is described as confident and assertive, yet her managing ways come across as haughty and imperious. Her decision to marry Ryder after is inconsistent with her stated desire to find her hero as she is not fully convinced at the time that he is her "one".
Despite these issues, they have solid chemistry, and the tension of the suspense plot adds to the intimacy of their relationship. Speaking of which, the identity of the villain is obvious from the start, and it is rather amazing that the other characters fail to see the truth staring them in the face.
The true highlight of the story is actually the epilogue as numerous Cynster couples and their children arrive at Somersham Place for a family reunion. It is fun to catch up with them all, although readers who have not managed to wade through the previous 19 books may find it difficult to keep track. This epilogue also functions to introduce the next generation of Cynsters who will be the focus of future installments. Hopefully, they will be entertaining.
3.5 Stars
Series note: This is book #2 in the Cynster Sister duology and the final book focusing on the original generation of Cynsters (beginning with Devil's Bride). The series continues with the next generation of Cynster children.
Mary Cynster, the only remaining unwed Cynster in her generation, has already chosen the man she believes to be her hero. Now she merely requires confirmation from the Lady's necklace. Unfortunately, fate has someone else in mind, someone completely unsuitable to Mary's way of thinking - Ryder Cavanaugh, Marquess of Raventhorne, the most unmanageable man in the ton. For Ryder, Mary is a challenge, and everyone knows he always wins.
The first half of the book focuses on Mary and Ryder's romance as he attempts to convince her that he is her destined hero. With that out of the way, the second half revolves around the mystery of who wants Ryder and/or Mary dead.
From the initial descriptions, Ryder is supposedly from the same commanding and powerful mold as Devil Cynster, Royce Varisey and Dominic Guisachan. While the potential is certainly there, he never completely succeeds in matching the forcefulness of these men's natures and personalities. With regard to his feelings for Mary, his reasons for choosing her as his wife are uninspired - it seems he is more attracted to the closely-knit Cynster clan than to Mary herself.
Mary herself is described as confident and assertive, yet her managing ways come across as haughty and imperious. Her decision to marry Ryder after
Spoiler
they are found in a compromising positionDespite these issues, they have solid chemistry, and the tension of the suspense plot adds to the intimacy of their relationship. Speaking of which, the identity of the villain is obvious from the start, and it is rather amazing that the other characters fail to see the truth staring them in the face.
The true highlight of the story is actually the epilogue as numerous Cynster couples and their children arrive at Somersham Place for a family reunion. It is fun to catch up with them all, although readers who have not managed to wade through the previous 19 books may find it difficult to keep track. This epilogue also functions to introduce the next generation of Cynsters who will be the focus of future installments. Hopefully, they will be entertaining.
styxx's review
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Confinement, Death, Sexual content, Terminal illness, Toxic relationship, Kidnapping, Grief, Murder, and Injury/Injury detail
tellmeastoryxx's review
lighthearted
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
attytheresa's review against another edition
4.0
This is not only the last of my quarantine listens (they aren't helping me get to sleep any longer so time to abandon), but the second and final of the Cynster Sisters duo. The amethyst necklace has been given to cousin Lucilla, the next female Cynster to marry but not yet ... and yes, that book already exists but I've had enough for now, LOL.
Mary is the last Cynster girl of her generation, the last opportunity for a good 10 years or more for any family of the ton to create an alliance with the wealthy and powerful Cynster family. But Mary is no biddable miss, and is determined not only to choose her own mate but remain in control of her destiny, including the terms of her marriage. She's set her eyes on Randolph Cavanaugh, one fo the young men of her generation, and hopes the necklace's magic will awaken him to her. Of course, that's not what's happened because young men like Randolph are too immature or green to be even thinking about marriage, can't even bring themselves to dance a waltz with a young lady. Frankly, he's terrified of Mary! BUT, the necklace does work its magic, only in an unexpected way.
It brings Ryder Cavanaugh to her attention, the elder step-brother of Randolph by a decade or so, and holder of the title and estates. Ryder needs a wife, needs to 'set up his nursey', and sets his eyes on Mary, the last of the Cynster girls of her generation, as his perfect bride. You see, he wants to unite his family, mend the rifts caused by his stepmother, and knows Mary. coming from the closely knit Cynster family, will be perfect for the job. It's very entertaining to watch stubborn Mary pursue Randolph, rebuff Ryder all while being attracted to him, while Ryder just keeps pursuing her.
It all reaches a head quite quickly when Ryder is attached in the street and Mary saves his life. Ther marriage follows and all seems to be heading towards a HEA when more accidents and attacks happen but to Mary this time. Ultimately, the villain identified and stopped, and at the very end, we see Mary start to unite the Cavanaugh family into the cohesive loving unit Ryder years for, as well as merging into the Cynster Clan.
There's also a great epilogue that has us revisiting all the Cynsters at the annual summer gathering, catching up on the stories we know, seeing the promise of the next generation - many of whom have had their stories told.
Benhar was once again the reader here and it was ok - but I have reached the point that too many of the male and female voices he uses just don't work for me. I think that's why in part I'm ready to stop my quarantine listens here. If I start up again, I might search out some other readers if I'm sticking with my favorite Laurens.
Mary is the last Cynster girl of her generation, the last opportunity for a good 10 years or more for any family of the ton to create an alliance with the wealthy and powerful Cynster family. But Mary is no biddable miss, and is determined not only to choose her own mate but remain in control of her destiny, including the terms of her marriage. She's set her eyes on Randolph Cavanaugh, one fo the young men of her generation, and hopes the necklace's magic will awaken him to her. Of course, that's not what's happened because young men like Randolph are too immature or green to be even thinking about marriage, can't even bring themselves to dance a waltz with a young lady. Frankly, he's terrified of Mary! BUT, the necklace does work its magic, only in an unexpected way.
It brings Ryder Cavanaugh to her attention, the elder step-brother of Randolph by a decade or so, and holder of the title and estates. Ryder needs a wife, needs to 'set up his nursey', and sets his eyes on Mary, the last of the Cynster girls of her generation, as his perfect bride. You see, he wants to unite his family, mend the rifts caused by his stepmother, and knows Mary. coming from the closely knit Cynster family, will be perfect for the job. It's very entertaining to watch stubborn Mary pursue Randolph, rebuff Ryder all while being attracted to him, while Ryder just keeps pursuing her.
It all reaches a head quite quickly when Ryder is attached in the street and Mary saves his life. Ther marriage follows and all seems to be heading towards a HEA when more accidents and attacks happen but to Mary this time. Ultimately, the villain identified and stopped, and at the very end, we see Mary start to unite the Cavanaugh family into the cohesive loving unit Ryder years for, as well as merging into the Cynster Clan.
There's also a great epilogue that has us revisiting all the Cynsters at the annual summer gathering, catching up on the stories we know, seeing the promise of the next generation - many of whom have had their stories told.
Benhar was once again the reader here and it was ok - but I have reached the point that too many of the male and female voices he uses just don't work for me. I think that's why in part I'm ready to stop my quarantine listens here. If I start up again, I might search out some other readers if I'm sticking with my favorite Laurens.
palnic26's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
cait_mari's review
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25