| Title | : | The Lord and the Wallflower (The Blue Rose Romances: The Culpepper Misses #3) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 310 |
| Publication | : | First published January 10, 2017 |
A rogue turned respectable. A matchmaking wallflower. A match not made in heaven.
When duty decrees former rogue Alexander Hawksworth fill the vacant vicarship a male in his family has held for generations, he resigns himself to a sober existence. Though he’s committed to his parish, he misses the soirées and parties, especially after the precocious Brette Culpepper arrives in London. After he unexpectedly inherits an earldom, he’s determined to make her his countess—until he’s accused of murdering the previous earl.
New to Society, Brette adores the whirlwind social scene and the slightly-sensual verbal sparring with the devilishly attractive Alex Hawksworth. She finds herself falling in love with the charming vicar, but when rumors circulate, she’s a peer’s illegitimate granddaughter, her world turns upside down. To make matters worse, a newly appointed guardian emerges, intent on forcing her to wed an elderly degenerate instead of Alex.
Time is against them as Alex struggles to clear his name and deliver the woman he loves from an unthinkable fate.
Though this book can easily be read as a stand-alone, most readers prefer to read the series in order.
The Lord and the Wallflower (The Blue Rose Romances: The Culpepper Misses #3) Reviews
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** 3.5 stars **
Out of three cousins I've read about I liked Brette the least. In the beginning she was made out to be a bit shallow know-it-all and drama queen. I didn't expect that considering her aspirations later in the book. They didn't coincide with the image portrayed in the beginning. I liked Alexander well enough even with his ill-thought proposals, he was a nice man that was spared the life of man of the cloth. The mystery of the earl and his heir's deaths were not solved so that was a bit of a downer. Plus what irked me the most was the fact that the topic of Brette's illegitimacy was discussed in such a place where servants could hear and with no taking any precautions thus making sure the rumor will be well spread. The whole situation smacked of made up drama. It didn't feel like a natural occurrence.
I liked all the characters from previous books, the high society censure and how the family was dealing with it. The machinations and well placed barbs by young ladies kept me well entertained. The ending was a bit anticlimactic. It was just statement of facts as they happened, and this book had no steam at all. Just saying. I am curious about the twin sisters though. So we will see. -
Review to follow
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This is the latest installment of the Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper series. All three books are quite enjoyable, but I honestly think that this one was my favorite.
Brette Culpepper has lived her life thinking that she's Brooke's sister... until one day a Mr. Shipwreck (a fitting name for what his news will do to the poor girl) comes with some unexpected news. He claims that Brette is actually a cousin, having been born to an actress (Brooke's aunt Belinda) and a wealthy aristocrat. There's more, it seems that no one knows if her alleged parents were actually married before her birth... making her baseborn and the talk of the ton. But if Brette can prove that her parents were married, she'll suddenly become the heiress of her grandfather's sizable fortune.
Alex Hawksworth is a rector who prefers the social life of the ton to that of his quiet parish. Though poor as a church mouse, he takes every opportunity to escape his life. He's been in love with Brette Culpepper as long as he's known her, but what sort of life would she have as the wife of a poor rector? He wants more for her than he can give her. One day he inherits an earldom after the tragic death of his older brother and young nephew. Now that he can finally give Brette the life she deserves he sets out to make her his bride. But now that she's the talk of the ton, dare he speak his feelings for a possible baseborn child? What would that say about himself? Or will he throw caution out the window and marry the woman of his dreams? -
Brette: Intentions Gone Astray (Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper Book 3) by Collette Cameron is at times a humorous and compelling Regency Romance. While, Book 3, it can be read as a stand alone. I'd suggest reading the other two books in this fantastic series, I feel you would benefit from reading them to get the full benefits from "Brette", there are some events, situations, and revelations revealed, that could spoil your entertainment, by not reading the other two books in this series, first, although, not necessary to enjoy "Brette".
This is Brette Culpepper and Alexander Hawksworth's story. Brette, is new to society, and finds she rather enjoys the soirees, dancing, balls and the social whirlwind, until that is....a horrible rumor circulates, everything changes in her newly discovered social world. Alexander Hawksworth, aka Alex, is a handsome, witty rogue turned rector, relucantly, I mind add. But what's a impoverished man to do to survive? He prefers the social world to prayers and sermons. Especially, after he meets the whirlwind named Brette. Then, he unexpectedly inherits an earldom, but his inheritance and freedom is threatened by rumors and innuendoes of him murdering the previous Earl. Brett, unexpectedly learns a secret that devastates her new found world, when rumors fly that she may be the illegitimate granddaughter of a peer, who has left her a tidy inheritance. Then, Alex learns that her newly appointed guardian is not a nice man, he intends to forcefully, if necessary, marry Brette off to an elderly despot man. He is after her wealth and cares nothing about her happiness or welfare. Whew, talk about roadblocks for a blossoming relationship! Can they overcome the obstacles thrown in their way or lose all to others actions?
Follow, Brette and Alex on a whirlwind, sometimes, and devastating world, while, other times you will smile, with their witty banter, and their undeniable attraction to each other.
Well written tale of life, love, and obstacles, but will they be able to find gold after the rainbow, after everything life throws their way?
I enjoyed Alex and Brette's story, it was not a typical romance, where the characters find love and live HEA, there are so many obstacles and ill will thrown in their path.
Once again, Ms. Cameron has written a captivating, yet thought-provoking tale, where the road to happiness has many curves, and not a clear path. Whew, an awesome, lively, unlikely Regency romance, with many twists and turns.
Bravo, Ms. Cameron! Brette, I think is my favorite of the magnificent "Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper" series, thus far.
A must read Regency Romance by the never disappointing Collette Cameron!! Fans of witty banter, Regency Romance, and complicated stories, will definitely enjoy reading Brette and Alex's story. Pick up a copy today to find out the twists and turns of Brette and Alex's story, I think you will enjoy this masterfully written story, I sure did.
I received a complimentary copy.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR -
I am a fairly new reader to Collette's Books and this is the third book in the "Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper". I really enjoyed this story. Collette knows how to add surprise after surprise to keep you enthralled to the very end.
Brette is a young lady who fancies herself as a cupid, helping other ladies land the gentleman of their dreams. Alex is handsome, witty gentleman who makes his living as a Rector. Though he knows he is really not cut out for the Church, he has to eat and when you are Quality there are only so many ways to make a living and still be accepted in Society.
He wants Brette desperately, but knows that she can do so much better than a poor Rector. Then fate intervenes and both Brette and Alex have life changing events.
Will they get their HAE.
Collette tests the fortitude of her characters by putting them into situations that will test their love for each other. Her writing is witty, sharp, smart and delightful to read. You can read this book as a stand alone as I did. If you have read the first two then you are in for a little surprise. Either way this is a must read. -
Brette Culpepper is a pint sized purveyor of kindness and mischief whose good intentions quickly go astray as her book title indicates. When rumors arrive on the ton gossip circuit that Brette is the illegitimate granddaughter of a Duke author Collette Cameron's well devised resulting turmoil was at its witty best. This writer cast her stories well and Brette's hero Alexander Hawksworth, a rogue turned rector, brought his own equally larger then life circumstances to the work when he suddenly found himself an Earl and accused of murdering his predecessor.
It was a delight to watch the expert plot maneuvering of Ms Cameron as secrets unfolded and her couple found their way out of multiple scrapes and intrigues. This author's ability to construct a story that feels right out of a genuine Regency drawing room is really quite remarkable. With a steadily built momentum that never let up until its impressively dramatic conclusion the third book in the Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper series, Brette: Intentions Gone Astray should not be missed!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.* -
What could the Culpepper Misses get into now? With Collette Cameron's witty sense of humor and the Culpepper's penchant for getting into mishaps one can only imagine what troubles Brette finds. However, I wasn't prepared for the bombshell that threatens everything Brette thought she knew.
I admired the strength and straight-forwardness with which Brette handles her situation; not so much the way she handles Alexander Hawksworth and their mutual feelings. But I do have to hand it to Alex, "Hawk", in his determination to prove to Brette they belong together (and the way he handled his grandmother - BRAVO!).
Ms. Cameron continues to come up with delightful ways to torment her characters and grab her readers attention - keeping them glued to the story from start to finish. -
I LOVE Collette Cameron's historical romances! Brette's story is the third book in the Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper series.
Brette was always trying to set everyone else up in a love match, but she kept finding herself in the most uncomfortable situation when it went all wrong.
Making a love match for herself was going to be difficult because the man she was attracted to wasn't in the same standing as she was.
Alex had no business being attracted to Brette because they weren't considered the same class, but as far as he was concerned class meant absolutely nothing and no matter what his plan was to marry her and spend the rest of his life with her.
I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone. -
Once again, Collette Cameron has brought us a delightful story in book #3 of The Misses Culpepper series. This story will tug on your emotions as you follow along with Brette Culpepper and her
(mis)adventures. What would you do if you found out you are not who you've always believed you were? And who can you possibly trust when you find your whole life has been a lie? Fight alongside Brette as she discovers the woman she really is, and what a man will do to help and keep the woman he loves no matter the cost.
Though this story is part of a series, it is a stand alone novel. However, I highly recommend the whole series. You won't be disappointed. -
Miss Brette Culpepper is a young woman with far too much time on her hands and a romantic heart. She is known for her matchmaking. Unfortunately not all of her matches have been successful. She has a very upsetting time coming to her in this story.
Rector Alexander Hawksworth has lectured Brette before about interfering in matters that should not concern her. He will find her something to do. He has also got a big surprise coming.
Family can be a God sent blessing or the Devil's curse. Read the book and find out which it is. Wonderful characters, some we might have met in previous books. A sweet historical romance that is part of a series but easily read alone. I loved it. -
A silly and cute historical romance. The H was wonderful, the misunderstandings surprisingly not too annoying, and the resolution sweet.
The H really sold this one. He wasn't a rake at all and was just a sincere and steadfast. He was a little clueless in the romance department but made up for it in his devotion to the h. The drama was a little more complicated than the other stories of this series but made for a more interesting story. Overall this was a nice piece of brain cotton candy. -
The Third Culpepper
I love these stories about these girls. This one has some surprises that will keep you guessing till the very end. -
A wonderful book! Brettes discovery concerning her parentage certainly threw her off balance, but not enough to contain her determination, her humour or her love for Alexander Hawkesworth, Rector. Nor did it dissuade Alex's love and desire for Brette. Things are never as they seem though. A sudden and tragic reversal in Alex's fortunes, making him the Earl of Wycombe now makes it possible for him to marry Brette - if she'll have him. Which she won't. Never would she wish him to be tied to a by-blow! While that wouldn't change his mind, there is also the charge of murder against him - someone claiming he killed the Earl and his heir to get the title for himself. There are twists and turns, love always, nightmares and dreams. I can't say much more or I'd give the whole thing away. Suffice it to say, it was an enthralling story, full of everything that makes Ms. Cameron's work so special. Her books are always captivating and make you yearn for more. Thank you Collette for another masterpiece.
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This audiobook was delightful! The story is lovely, as is Collette Cameron's main character, BRETTE. She reminds me a bit of Jane Austen's Emma, and not just in her desire to be a matchmaker, but in her charm, confidence, and general way she maintains control of her own life and choices. She does what she believes is the right thing for those she loves.
Alexander "Hawk" Hawksworth was also easy to admire. He claims roguish ways that he feels make him ill-suited to be a rector, but is in fact kind, humble, and quietly seeing to the needs of those less fortunate. Oh, and quite in love with the incomparable Miss Brette Culpepper, no matter her station. If only she would believe his feelings were true.
Fun love story. Great characters. Humorous dialogue. A little danger. And narrated with a delicious British accent that makes it just so much more authentic and enjoyable. 4.5 stars
~Complimentary audiobook received from a giveaway. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. -
The story of Brette Culpepper and Alex as they fall in love.
This is another good Regency romance from Collette Cameron! This was very entertaining and I enjoyed the old names for difficult people from long ago! Some were quite funny. I read it in ONE DAY! Of course I was up until 1 a.m.! -
Intentions
This is a very good book. I really enjoyed this series. Alex and Brette were fabulous. I really enjoyed Alex's charm and banter. He had me smiling several times. The heroes in this series all had a problem. Alex was a Rector and really didn't want to be one. The Marques was publicly embarrassed by his father when he was a young teen, which he came to grips with. Heath had a problem with dyslexia, but I don't feel like it was dealt with? -
Originally posted on
lampshadereader.com
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
So loving Brette right now! The latest installment of the Culpepper sisters provides some added drama and revealed secrets. Of course I wasn’t expecting the scandal that poor Brette faced in this story. Collette Cameron sure likes to tease her heroines.
Intentions Gone Astray...
Brette and her matchmaking abilities (or actually lack thereof) wind up causing her some problems early in the story. Hence, where her intentions go astray.
However, it wouldn’t be a Regency setting without rumors and the haughty “le bon ton” causing all sorts of heartache for our lead character. A surprising secret is revealed and it causes Brette to re-evaluate her lot in life.
Finally the hot sexy rector gets his story!
Didn’t think I would ever write those lines, but well, if you read the earlier stories you would totally understand!
Alex also receives his surprising turn of events, somewhat sad, but I guess it had to be done for Alex’s story to progress. However, his issues took a back seat to Brette’s. Her issues were focused on the most, which I found totally alright because I felt that his backstory kind of tied up neatly anyway.
His attraction to Brette goes from sweet to sexy. I loved that he shed his robes (literally and figuratively) and let his true emotions reign.
The humorous interactions and dialog between the characters are always what makes me excited to read a book in this series.
A little note....
Can be read as a standalone, but because of certain events and revelations in this book, you might want to read from the beginning. -
Brette Culpepper is petite, beautiful, and kind hearted. She enjoys the whirlwind of society and loves matchmaking. The problem is she is not very good at the matchmaking part. Alex Hawksworth, who was once a rake and is now a rector, is absolutely head over heels in love with Brette.
And now, to each his own conundrum. As she prepares for what she is sure to be exile in the country due to her latest matchmaking attempt gone astray, Brette receives news that her father has just died and left her an inheritance. This is quite a surprise, since she and her sisters thought their father was already dead. It turns out that she may very well be the illegitimate daughter of her aunt and an actor who was also the second son of a duke (who was more famous for his smelly feet than anything her ever did). At the same time, Alex discovers that his cousin, the earl, and his son have been killed in a fire and he is now Earl of Wycombe. That’s wonderful, or would be if he wasn’t accused of causing the death of the old earl and his son.
Our hero and heroine need to find the truth of their situations. As they work to solve these problems, they fall even more deeply in love. Just as they are working through the last of their doubts about marriage, more news arrives. This time it’s a good news, bad news scenario that creates one last conundrum. This one, happily, is easy to solve.
Brette is another delightful story by Collette Cameron. The characters are realistic and loveable, at least most of them. Within the story are splashes of humor, mystery, and surprise. I enjoy Stevie Zimmerman’s narration. Her rendition of this book was quite entertaining. I especially like her portrayal of Brette. She makes her sound like the cute little imp she is supposed to be. -
Brette: Intentions Gone Astray ⭐⭐⭐⭐by Collette Cameron
Alexander Hawksworth meets his match with Brette Culpepper.
Brette is a hopeless romantic as well as a born matchmaker. She loves seeing the love forlorn together and especially under her efforts.
Alex is the local Vicar. Somewhat of colorful by nature is loves acting and parties. When the beautiful Brette tries her matchmaking skills and learns she has been bamboozled by her friend she is disgusted. Alex, too, reprimands her interferences. Alex secretly finds Brette charming and is strongly attracted to her.
As a result of a sudden and suspicious death, Alex inherits and earldom and now with fortune on his side her wants Brette as his wife. Ms Cameron throws in a lot of twists and turns at this point and certainly holds the readers attention. I enjoyed this short continuation of the Culpepper Misses and would recommend it as a read. -
I enjoyed Brette's story and I'm gland she found Hawk, they seem like a great pair and I hope to see more of them in future books about the Culpeppers.
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Beautiful ,fun and sweet story. This story in The Conundrums of the Misses Culpepper series is my favorite to date. I loved the smart and match making Brette ,she had so many disheartening facts come to light and for a woman of her time are pretty social killing.The male lead Alex was such a good hearted character and he had so many things to overcome with both his head and his heart,not to mention family, during the story. I thought they complimented each other perfectly, I loved hearing how they interacted. Five Beautiful Stars
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Fun story!
This story is so worth the read. It's a quick story. There is plot twists, fun charismatic characters, and of course puppies. I love the story of Alex and Brett finding their happily ever after. -
Hero: Alex/Hawk Heroine: Brette
Reading Enjoyment:4.5* I enjoyed reading this fun and witty short story that is well written with charismatic characters, and was an exciting/ tantalizing story. Very intriguing and entertaining was I started it could not put it down. This story has a very happy and satisfying HEA!! -
A fun historical romp romance, where a spirited heroine finally captures the heart of her hero. I love how Alex just couldn't get why Brette kept turning him down. A fun cast of characters with plenty of intrigue to keep one interested in the story.
