Review: The Marquess and the Maiden (Lords of Vice #2) by Robyn DeHart

Print Length: 231 pages

Publisher: Entangled Publishing (September 10, 2018)

From Goodreads.com: Harriet Wheatley is the mastermind behind the Ladies of Virtue's quest to rehabilitate the gentlemen of the ton. So when it comes to selecting her own target, she knows who to choose: Oliver Weeks, Marquess of Davenport—the most extravagant wastrel in all of London.

Known for his opulent lifestyle, Oliver isn't surprised by Harriet's confrontation. It's obvious Harriet longs for any way to take him down a notch. She says she'll help him find a bride, but he knows it's only because it gives her the excuse to chastise his indulgent ways. 

Oliver has good reason for his flagrant overspending, but Harriet will hear nothing of it. So he has no choice but to teach the lady a lesson, even if it means risking his heart to the hard-headed and fiery woman.

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My Rating: 3 stars out of 5

While this story was for me - an OK read, I don't think the synopsis really personifies the story. Yes, elements of the synopsis do come into play - but its not what you think. In fact although Harriet does bring it up to "reform" him, nothing is ever really done. You see, Harriet and Oliver were supposed to be married six years prior (an arrangement between their mothers), yet he made it perfectly clear that he did not want her, nor would he ever. So years later, Harriet is trying to find him an acceptable wife, while he is trying to prove to her that he wants her as his wife. 

The romance between them was ok - it was obvious they desired each other, but I think Harriet's firm belief that he was merely trying to torment her went on so often it became boring. When they were fighting they were interesting. When he was trying to court her, they were boring. 

The real kicker for me is the fact that an entire sub-plot revolving around Lady X and the Women of Virtue was left utterly unresolved. I'm sure that was done in order to set up the next book in this series, but I am sure the cliff-hanger ending of this particular plot will upset some readers. 

Overall, I think people who enjoy historical romances will still enjoy it and I would read more from this author.

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

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                  The Marquess and the Maiden is available from Amazon.com