I had such a great time reading this. While the beginning 20% was slower to start, and contained many references to events from previous books, it was helpful to have this context in order to better understand the character motivations and development. From the 20% mark on,, the pacing picked up and I was fully invested in the story. I love a romance with stakes and tension and this one both in perfect dosages! The political plot line helps to drive these characters together, even if it comes to a head when the secrets are revealed.

Lady Mary Kimber and Caine Parkhurst are great characters, fully developed and nuanced, with wonderful chemistry and delicious banter. Lady Mary's reputation has been singed by two broken engagements, and her current season is not going as planned. Caine initially perceives her as aloof and commonplace, but quickly realizes that he has seriously underestimated her intelligence and wit after the pair trade ballroom barbs. The unifying theme in To Court a Rake centers around agency and freedom. What choice is the right one for Lady Mary? Will she be forced into marriage with a dangerous duke in order to satisfy her father's debts? Is Caine's offer of protection and marriage done out of obligation or from a place of love and care? Who is the safer choice: the mysterious duke who issues thinly veiled threats, or the undercover agent of the Crown with a rakish reputation? What does Caine put at risk by marrying? Is it just his heart or will the unseen threat of his enemies never disappear? What is worth risking for love?

Great pacing, great character development, engaging story, and high stakes. All the things I love in a romance. Minor complaint is that the final chapter goes by a touch too quickly (and glosses over that *ahem" dead body). I absolutely devoured this. And I am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series. THAT EPILOGUE.

Incredible. I could not put it down. I was swept away with the mystery and Mary and Caine’s love story! It didn’t not feel rushed or angsty! It was a wonderfully written regency romance! 10/10 would recommend if you love historical romances!

Thank you to NetGalley, Bronwyn Scott, and Harlequin publishing for the chance to read this ARC!

Falling for the daughter while investigating the father. Forced into marriage.

A solid series starter following four brothers and showcases romance and intrigue. The writing was a little modern for the aimed for time, but I still found this an enjoyable read and look forward to reading the next titles in the series.



Thank you to Harlequin Historical and NetGalley for the DRC

Rake and spy Caine must marry within the year. Mary is being forced by her father to marry a cruel man. While investigating her father, Caine discovers how attracted he is to his daughter. What are they willing to do about their mutual attraction? I look forward to reading the next book in this series about four brothers. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Harlequin Historical for my honest review.

This book was a solid 3. The characters were quite nicely developed, but the premise and language was quite modern. There was plenty of romance, intrigue and thrilling elements.

#netgalley # HowtoCourtaRake