This romance was a bit angsty for my taste. Catherine and Dominic were good together, though, and their love story was satisfying. This book was worth the read.

I received an ARC from NetGalley. This is my honest review.

I love this series. The Grand Palace on the Thames is generally its own character in the series. It is a boardinghouse near the docks which attracts random people, but the proprietresses have rules for visitors and interview everyone before letting them stay.

In this book, Lord Kirke's house was burned, so he is spending months at the GPOTT. He is known for being a great orator and working to help poor children, but is also an outspoken person who doesn't let people close to him.

Catherine Keating is in town for her first Season and both are staying at the GPOTT. Her chaperone is always gambling and she is somewhat poor and cannot get a foothold in the Season.

Kirke finds a kindred spirit in Catherine, and helps her get started in the Season. Along the way they get closer but Kirke doesn't allow them to have more than a friendly relationship.

Of course both fit in very well at the GPOTT and enjoy being there, but when Catherine is gossiped about in the Ton, she decides to go home and Kirke moves to a different lodging.

The story is essentially of Catherine growing up, and Kirke allowing himself to love and be loved. This was one of the few age gap regency romances I think I've seen, and it was a great story. I really loved the characters and seeing both Catherine and Kirke grow and fall in love.

I can't wait to hear more about the GPOTT and hope there are more books about this wonderful place that fosters some wonderful relationships.

I received an advanced copy and am giving an honest review.

This is my first book by this author, as far as I can remember. She writes well developed characters that seem very real and a great storyline-very original. (Country bumpkin vs hardened Lord.-that is Catherine and Dominic). I felt a plethora of emotions, as the writer does a wonderful job of pulling out of each character their quirks and traits. That being said, I found the story too full of description, to the point that half way through I wasn’t sure if I could finish.. Some description is fine to get a feel for the environment, feelings, etc. But this seemed to weigh the story down, which weighed me, the reader down. The last 5 chapters were much better and the epilogue was absolutely tremendous! ( I wish more authors would do that). I especially loved Mrs. Pariseau’s needing brandy after awakening-that was hilarious!.All in all- a good story, just be prepared to read a lot of description-too much for me, thus the 4 stars.

I received this book for free and these are my own opinions.

Julie Anne Long can do no wrong! Catherine and Dominic are thrown together when circumstances go haywire, and opposites so very much attract in My Season of Scandal. So many swoon worthy moments, along with excellent dialogue and story.

Julie Ann Long is quickly becoming a new favorite historical romance author of mine, and it’s all thanks to this series. I didn’t think anything could top the previous entry, but My Season of Scandal is neck and neck. I loved it so much.

No one and I mean no one can make me emotional like JAL. Reader, I cried like a baby reading this epilogue.

I had expectations going into this. A jaded, older peer and an innocent young woman from the country traversing her first (and only) season cross paths at The Grand Palace on the Thames and fall in love. There was humor. There was banter. There was appearances and checkins with all of our favorite Palace residents.

What I didn’t expect was the angst and literal knot in my stomach watching Catherine and Dominick dance around each other. The yearning between them, the run ins in secret alcoves and balconies and gardens, the desperate way they want to be each others. I was on tenterhooks. Not only is this a slow burn, it’s an Angsty slow burn. It’s watching two idiots in love break their own hearts and each others because they don’t know how to navigate big scary feelings. And it’s watching them put each other’s hearts back together by finally acknowledging their mistakes.

Dominick is jaded and a world weary and Catherine doesn’t crash into his life. She slips in until he wonders how he even went without her. Between secret meetings at balls, run ins at The Palace, and rendezvous that could prove dangerous for them both, Catherine slips under his defenses like water through a leak. And he doesn’t know how to get her out. Nor does he really want to.

For a man that holds the nation captive with his speeches in parliament, he’s completely baffled and tongue tied by a young woman he never expected. And Catherine refuses to let him hide away from his pain and hurt. It was beautiful. And I don’t know how JAL will top this one for me. But I’ve said that before and look at me now.

Absolutely no notes. Not a one. Perfection.

Thank you so much to Avon and Harper Voyager for an ARC. Julie, I’ll be sending you a bill for the tissues I went through.

This book made me believe in historical romances again. I loved it SO MUCH! Cat and Dominic were truly meant to be and I can’t wait for a reread!!

I adore this series and this may be the best book in it. A naive girl ventures to London for a season and encounters a rake. What could be a recipe for disaster ends up the sweetest love story that had me grinning from ear to ear. Strong characters, great chemistry, adorable gestures, and fabulous banter all in one book. Every time Kirke lit up with surprised delight at one of Catherine’s rejoinders my heart swelled.

Any historical romance reader should be giving this series, and this book, a try.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review..

Again, another master class in historical romance. Julia Ann Long writes exquisite prose. The banter between the two main character is swoon worthy. He is a gorgeous man. Getting to sit back down with the residents of the Grand Palace on the Thames is like a family reunion.

Please give us Dot’s HEA,,,,

What a wonderful story! I love Julie Anne Long’s writing. She just knows how to weave a tale of love and heartache, frustration and passion. Her imagery is also so lush.
Lord Kirke and Catherine were such lovely characters. They were the type that I dreamed about what would happen next when I couldn’t read it all before bed. It was a story you wanted to see their HEA, but at the same time wanted it to keep going because you were enjoying the ride.
Catherine is one of my favorite heroines. She was 22 and still innocent, but she was courageous and not flighty. It was marvelous! She was wise and reacted as such when Kirke struggled so much with himself. It was a relief for her not to be a simpering miss, but also not a jaded or scared woman. I want to see more of this kind of FMC.

I received a free copy of an ARC for an honest review.

love this series, but this was the best so far!! First of all, spending time back at the Grand Palace on the Thames is just so much fun. All our favorite characters are there and how I love to visit them. Plus there are cameos from the Pennyroyal series, which just made me smile.
Catherine, a lovely country girl, comes for the Season and ends up boarding there. Then, one night, Lord Dominic Kirke, a firebrand MP from Wales, comes to stay because his house has burnt down. The funny dialogue between Dot and the footman Pike is adorable. I hope to see a relationship develop.
The reason I loved this book so much is that it delves into the actual history of child labor within the context of a very slow burning love story. It is about loss, guilt, and finding your true home. There is a lot of truth told, some fiery speeches, loneliness and misunderstandings. It seems to uncover so many human emotions with wit and beauty.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my EARC. I highly recommend this book, but please start from the beginning. You won't regret it.

Five stars isn't enough. Absolutely perfect.

It was a delight to return to the Palace of Rogues, one of my favorite historical romance series, but even those who have never read a single book in this series will appreciate this installment. On the surface, this seems like a basic opposites-attract romance: a 22-year-old woman fresh from a small country village has been invited to London to join friends for the season and meets an older politician from the House of Commons, who is known for his fiery speeches on behalf of England's powerless.

Both Catherine Keating and Lord Dominic Kirke are residing at the Grand Palace on the Thames boarding house, which is where they first meet. Yet it is at Catherine's first ball that they have their first proper conversation. In that first conversation, it's apparent that he's both more worldly than she is in most ways that matter in a London season, and also that she can hold her own with his sense of humor and wry wit. A ball after ball, they encounter one another for private conversations that are simmering with a mutual, growing--and at times, almost begrudging-- admiration. Their chemistry (or alchemy, as Dominic thinks of it) is off the charts. These are complemented by the evenings spent together in the much-loved company at the Grand Palace: Dot, Delacorte (who remains one of the funniest recurring characters in historical romances), Mrs. Pariseau, Angelique and Delilah, Lord Bolt and Captain Hardy.

(A note here: Julie Anne Long is masterful in how she constructs this romance. Every scene--whether at a ball, in the park, or in evening gatherings at the Grand Palace--is so rich and layered, and so necessary for the development of their relationship. It's honestly a pleasure in itself to see such a well-designed plot.)

And both Catherine and Dominic are complex. She is not an angel nor he a devil, as they are contrasted in a newspaper gossip column. He demonstrates care for her in meaningful (and sometimes boneheaded) ways, while she can cut him with well-aimed words when she lashes out from reasonable hurt. She grapples with the complexities of loving a rake, and he with self-forgiveness for his past failings.

If you yearn for a historic romance that will make you laugh aloud on one page and tear your heart out on another, this is the book for you. If you like a brisk plot and multi-dimensional characters, this is the book for you. If you enjoy following engaging characters on their journey to a well-earned HEA, this is the book for you.

And if you like this one, I recommend the whole series--in particular, After Dark with the Duke, Angel in a Devil's Arms, and How to Tame a Wild Rogue.

I loved this book! It had everything romantic and entertaining that I could have wished for: naive, hopeful young woman hoping to make a match at her one and only season, a jaded older man who could not help falling in love, politics, intelligent dialogue, and of course, the talks by the fireside at The Grand Palace on the Thames. Mr. Delacorte was particularly hilarious in this one.

Catherine Keating is the daughter of a rural pastor. She has been sent to London to have a season in the hopes of finding someone to marry, as there are very few unmarried men where she lives and none of them are particularly eligible. Her patroness is unable to house her so she has a room at the Grand Palace on the Thames.

Lord Dominic Kirke, a fiery orator and member of the House of Commons is also staying at the Grand Palace on the Thames. His house has damage from a fire, and is being repaired. He is considered to be somewhat controversial and has some scandal attached to his name.

Of course Lord Dominic and Catherine (Cat) meet at balls and are formally introduced, where they pretend to meet for the first time. Catherine attracts some very eligible young men who would be excellent matches for her, but none of them quite match up with the man who won't court her. Will she choose to spend her life with a man she doesn't love?

I received an e-ARC from publisher Avon and Harper Voyager via NetGalley. It was my pleasure to voluntarily read and review this book.

4.5 stars

I yearned for a Capital R Romance and my prayers were answered. Loooooved this. Definitely my favorite of the series, and it potentially rivals WHAT I DID FOR DUKE as my favorite JAL. I have a complicated relationship with JAL historicals; a third are meh, a third are nice, and a third causes my head to spin for weeks. MY SEASON OF SCANDAL belongs in the last category.

It's impossible to summarize the plot because the entire plot *is* the blurb. They're neighbors at a boardinghouse and attend several balls together. That's basically it. But it's not boring. I would NOT classify this as "no plot, all vibes" (something I dislike) because the emotional journey is hella compelling and rife with exquisite tension. I often complain that protagonist conversations are shallow and artificial: are they merely bantering or do they actually like each other? Here, so much space is devoted to emotionally resonant conversations. Cat and Dominic understood what made the other person tick; their love brought out the best versions of themselves. That's all I ask for in a romance novel.

Also: CLOVER. Incredible reveal. Gah.

Another winner from Julie Anne Long. Catherine Keating, the daughter of a country doctor, is a sweet, joyful young woman enjoying a Season in London. Lord Kirke is older, cynical, grew up poor and now a politician fighting for better conditions for the poor. Strong lead and supporting characters; the dialogue was witty and intelligent; the romance was exquisite; lust full of angst; and laugh out loud moments from the unique boarders of The Grand Palace.

I highly recommend this book and thank the publisher and Net Galley for an ARC.

“He’d thought he was a fighter. She was ruthless.”

Get ready to be swept away by an unspeakably beautiful, moving, and heartfelt romance between a 35-year-old jaded MP and a 22-year-old pragmatic country miss. I’m delighted to report that My Season of Scandal delivers on all the necessary components to render a successful season: secret trysts, dancing, scandals, an abominable marriage proposal, and a perfect HEA. Reading a Julie Anne Long novel brings me ineffable joy. It has become customary for me to slowly savor her novels. Each written word is infused with so much exquisite emotion and love. It’s just lovely! In My Season of Scandal, Julie Anne Long weaves a spellbinding tale of love, yearning, heartbreaks, hope, with a dash of politics and a kaleidoscope of emotions. A must-read.

“She’d learned that everything beautiful and beloved was merely on loan.”

Little did Miss Catherine Keating know that one dance with Lord Dominic Kirke, a scandalous MP, would reshape the course of her first London season. The said MP is also a fellow guest at The Grand Palace on the Thames AKA cupid’s house. Attraction, proximity, and like-mindedness bring them together and forge an unending bond. I adore Cat. She is the daughter of a doctor from a small town. Cat’s character shines through as a caring, strong, and determined individual. She’s unafraid to challenge Kirke and turns his world upside down. Cat is eager for new experiences in London, and the notorious politician from a Welsh background is a whole new universe!

“He only has affairs, dear.”

Dominic is an irresistible mix of seductive hotness and formidable wisdom. His character is fully drawn and well-explored. I’m in awe of his character. Despite coming from humble beginnings, Dominic rose to prominence through hard work and sheer will. A legendary orator elevated to peerage for his outstanding public service, Lord Kirke is driven by an intense need to help the vulnerable. However, he’s a man with a history. Past heartbreaks have shaped him. You can feel his anguish and his internal struggles. He’s a complicated, imperfect hero one can’t help but fall in love with. When he errs, he delivers swoony public speeches. I had no idea speeches in the House of Commons could be so romantic.

“One wrong move will be your undoing, Kirke.”

Cat and Dominic share an intense chemistry from their very first meeting. Both are passionate and deep thinkers. I love how they gravitate toward each other and come alive in each other’s company. Their sensual connection is palpable. The yearning in this book is sublime. Their steamy, slow-burn romance will stay with you long after you’re finished reading it.

Moreover, the familiar setting and characters emanate a sense of comfort and warmth, thereby enhancing the reading experience. Delacorte, to me, is indispensable to this series. His candid, uninhibited humor is unmatched. There is also something sweet brewing between Dot and Ben Pike. And I love to see a satisfying glimpse into the lives of Delilah-Tristan and Angelique-Lucien.

The Palace of Rogues is one of the best historical romance series out there. This is yet another fantastic addition to the series. While I LOVED How to Tame a Wild Rogue, to me, My Season of Scandal is the best of the series. This book has my heart. I’m so excited for everyone to read this. Please fast forward the next few months so I can listen to the audiobook performed by Justine Eyre. I need it NOW!

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for the e-ARC. This is my honest review.

I absolutely loved this book. The chemistry between the main characters was very well developed and very evident. The character development and relationship development in general was wonderful and thorough. There was some very nice trope subversion, and some really great nuanced and deep characterization. This is probably my favorite of this series so far.

I have read every Julie Anne Long book published and enjoyed every single one- this is no exception. TGPOTT has been so fun to read and if Dot and Pike don’t get a story I will be devastated. Kirke and Catherine were sooo good together. Their banter was so perfect I just loved it! Their backstories were so well thought out and blended so well together. So romantic! Thank you so much for the advanced copy!!

My Season of Scandal: ★ ★ ★ ★ . 7 5

Julie Anne Long (The Palace of Rogues, #7)

"Clover."

When Catherine and Dominic end up in the same hotel for the London season after his house burns down, the tension between them is palpable. But he's too old for her, he's got a history, and has a reputation that would ruin her for days. Nonetheless, they can't stop running into each other by the plants and can't help falling in love either.

Tropes:
– Historical romance
– Forced proximity
– Grumpy/sunshine
– Age gap

As with any Julie Anne Long book, she is a master of tension, wit, and angst. And this book was no exception. The banter between Dominic and Catherine was top notch. I loved her curiosity and his witty little responses to everything she had to say. I liked her innocence and his intellect. I liked the way their relationship grew so much and his absolute obsession with her.

Where Julie Anne Long always shines is the emotional intimacy and that was so clear with this story. The connections her characters always form with one another is so raw and their communication is satisfying, mature, and loving, always. There's nothing I love more than when two characters fall in love and just don't realize it. But then when they do realize it, Dominic and Catherine are such a force of nature.

My only note would be that the pacing was just a touch slow for me in the beginning of the book and I wished to see more interactions between them to keep me engaged, but once it going going, it really got going. I devoured it so quick.

I know that quote, "Clover," gives away nothing, but the MEANING of it. UGH. The grand gesture and speech behind that word was everything to me. I understand why Catherine cried because girl, I was quite close myself. Also, one of my favorite micro-tropes in historical romances is waltz-at-the-ball-where-everyone-is-watching and this one had that with an extra twist that heightened the whole thing. UGH. The way he bent his whole life around her, her, her–the dress, the footmen, the dance. ALL OF IT. He was so obsessed with her and I loved him for it.

The slowburn of Dot and Pike over the course of this series... oh boy. I cannot wait for that one.

As a loving note to the editors at Harper Collins from a girl who works in PR and media–this copy does need a thorough proof though as there's some lingering "notes to self" and proofing errors that I am sure you would love to see rectified before this book is live. I found it endearing, myself, but then again, I am also a perfectionist in every way and would be remiss if I didn't mention it.

ARC kindly shared by Netgalley for an honest review.

CLOVER!!! My heart!!!

Ok, I knowy review must be more than the word clover but .. well, it has to be said. Now on to the book at hand. Which is magical and inviting and captures your imagination from the very start, then proceeds to entrance you and hold you captive until you are crying happy tears at the end. Catherine was lovely and kind and wore her goodness on her out of date sleeves. Dominic was prickly and determined to keep the world at bay. And my heart is so happy after watching them find their way through the crocodile infested waters of the ton. Brilliant.