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Forever Your Rogue
"One of the most utterly gorgeous character transformations historical romance has offered up in some time." - The New York Times
He was her last chance. She was his first certainty.
Cora, Lady Dane, gave up her dreams of happily ever after a long time ago. Now newly widowed, the young mother is determined to finally live on her own terms…until a devastating betrayal shatters her hopes for the future. Faced with the prospect of losing her beloved children to overbearing relatives, Cora needs the help of the one thing she swore she’d never have again: a husband.
Nathaniel Travers hasn’t a care—or responsibility—in the world. Content with his wayward lifestyle, the charismatic rogue has no interest in marriage or duty. That is, until the earl cuts off his bank accounts. No stranger to wild escapades, Nate is game for any scheme that keeps him afloat…even a madcap ruse with a stubborn viscountess.
A fake engagement should be a straightforward solution to both of their dilemmas. But a summer at Cora's estate tests their arrangement, and it isn’t long before their simmering attraction escalates to a feverish crescendo. When they are forced to confront the real complications of their faux betrothal, Nate has to make the first worthy gamble of his life…if only Cora can risk her guarded heart.
Forever Your Rogue is a swoony, sexy, and heartfelt Regency romance that can be enjoyed as a standalone.
He was her last chance. She was his first certainty.
Cora, Lady Dane, gave up her dreams of happily ever after a long time ago. Now newly widowed, the young mother is determined to finally live on her own terms…until a devastating betrayal shatters her hopes for the future. Faced with the prospect of losing her beloved children to overbearing relatives, Cora needs the help of the one thing she swore she’d never have again: a husband.
Nathaniel Travers hasn’t a care—or responsibility—in the world. Content with his wayward lifestyle, the charismatic rogue has no interest in marriage or duty. That is, until the earl cuts off his bank accounts. No stranger to wild escapades, Nate is game for any scheme that keeps him afloat…even a madcap ruse with a stubborn viscountess.
A fake engagement should be a straightforward solution to both of their dilemmas. But a summer at Cora's estate tests their arrangement, and it isn’t long before their simmering attraction escalates to a feverish crescendo. When they are forced to confront the real complications of their faux betrothal, Nate has to make the first worthy gamble of his life…if only Cora can risk her guarded heart.
Forever Your Rogue is a swoony, sexy, and heartfelt Regency romance that can be enjoyed as a standalone.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2023
About the author
Erin Langston
4 books267 followersErin Langston is a historical romance author who crafts Regencies with heart, heat, and humor. A librarian by trade, Erin lives in the Midwest with her husband and two children. When not working, writing, or mom-ing, she can be found outside, drinking wine, buried in a book, or attempting to home-improve. A not-insignificant portion of her first novel was plotted in the preschool pickup line.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 581 reviews
June 2, 2023
Ugh I’m wrecked! Too many feels!
Why do authors insist on making me feel my feelings? I prefer my heart to remain cold and dead, thank you very much!
This book was so good. It may now be my favourite rogue redemption story ever, OVER Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent and MORE THAN West Ravenel! Nathaniel Travers was the rogue to end all rogues and became the very best man.
Be warned all, this book is packed with moments, full of emotion, stuffed with epic lines and poetic love letters, loaded with swoony scenes, jammed with evil villains who get their just rewards, and features two adorable children, an anxious widow desperate to keep them and a rapscallion, ne’er do well who saves them all and saves himself in the process.
Gah! This is all the reasons I love historical romance! Don’t let the scapegrace hero deter you, he changes his ways and is devoted early on. He fights for her over and over and his commitment to her and her children is real and true.
The only thing I didn’t love about this book is that the epilogue was too far into the future. I prefer a couple of years, not into old age. It’s too much reality when other beloved characters have died and everyone is old and creaky.
That’s it. I loved this. The end.
Why do authors insist on making me feel my feelings? I prefer my heart to remain cold and dead, thank you very much!
This book was so good. It may now be my favourite rogue redemption story ever, OVER Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent and MORE THAN West Ravenel! Nathaniel Travers was the rogue to end all rogues and became the very best man.
Be warned all, this book is packed with moments, full of emotion, stuffed with epic lines and poetic love letters, loaded with swoony scenes, jammed with evil villains who get their just rewards, and features two adorable children, an anxious widow desperate to keep them and a rapscallion, ne’er do well who saves them all and saves himself in the process.
Gah! This is all the reasons I love historical romance! Don’t let the scapegrace hero deter you, he changes his ways and is devoted early on. He fights for her over and over and his commitment to her and her children is real and true.
The only thing I didn’t love about this book is that the epilogue was too far into the future. I prefer a couple of years, not into old age. It’s too much reality when other beloved characters have died and everyone is old and creaky.
That’s it. I loved this. The end.
October 9, 2023
Cora,
I thought of something this morning
I’m not sure how to say this…
Here’s a letter I’ll never send
When I awoke, my first thought was you.
And damn if you haven’t stayed there all day, pressed inside of me, filling my cracked places.
As if you’d been there all along.
the letters have my entire heart. 🥲❤️🩹 nathaniel travers is standards. the way he adopted cora’s kids — tess and leo — as his own was everything!! i adore when the mmc feels protective over the kids (of the single mom), it’s the cutest thing ever. 😌
the entire range of my emotions as i was reading this: 💌💘💝💖💗💓💞💕🥲😭🤩🫡😮💨😌😩😋🥹🥰
cora and nathaniel are literally so beautiful together 🥹 epitome of bf who’d do anything for her because he doesn’t feel like he deserves her, gf who’s a little neurotic and control-freaky but loses control with him and is unapologetically wild and free 🫠 their story started with cora asking nathaniel to participate in a ruse for them to have a fake marriage — it was, of course, entirely fake. 🫣 but their relationship developed into more, growing from teasing banter to lil moments between them as well as nathaniel growing closer and becoming more and more attached to cora’s kids. i have absolutely zero complaints with how their relationship burned and how their love developed, it was just lovely.
But when you smile at me, your eyes hooded and heavy in the first light of day, it’s gold in my pockets, gold in my hands, gold in my unformed heart.
Gold, gold, gold, Cora.
I’ll gather your smiles, and they’ll make us rich.
they made me feel so much. both of them as characters were so strong and i adored how each of their characters was developed — along with the side characters, like gavin, tabby, and tess and leo (though can they really be called side characters when nathaniel fell so in love with them so readily and quickly?? 🥹). both of them were just fighting for what and who they believed in and stood for, and both of them quickly realized that was just their family — which nathaniel considered as just being cora and her kids. 🥺 and just stop, i wasn’t expecting this to be a little on the angstier side too? there was a little miscommunication but i didn’t mind in the least bit when everything was done so well and i ate it up. 😋 the moment nathaniel claimed tess and leo as his kids inside his head, i was a goner for this man. he’d literally do anything for them it’s adorable.
He had four children—two he made and two who had made him—and Nate loved them all fiercely, equally, differently.
🤰
they just saw each other, they knew each other. there is no purer love than that 💗 i love that they found each other and are a family now. they deserve everything in the world 🥹
I’m not sure how to say this…
Here’s a letter I’ll never send
When I awoke, my first thought was you.
And damn if you haven’t stayed there all day, pressed inside of me, filling my cracked places.
As if you’d been there all along.
the letters have my entire heart. 🥲❤️🩹 nathaniel travers is standards. the way he adopted cora’s kids — tess and leo — as his own was everything!! i adore when the mmc feels protective over the kids (of the single mom), it’s the cutest thing ever. 😌
the entire range of my emotions as i was reading this: 💌💘💝💖💗💓💞💕🥲😭🤩🫡😮💨😌😩😋🥹🥰
cora and nathaniel are literally so beautiful together 🥹 epitome of bf who’d do anything for her because he doesn’t feel like he deserves her, gf who’s a little neurotic and control-freaky but loses control with him and is unapologetically wild and free 🫠 their story started with cora asking nathaniel to participate in a ruse for them to have a fake marriage — it was, of course, entirely fake. 🫣 but their relationship developed into more, growing from teasing banter to lil moments between them as well as nathaniel growing closer and becoming more and more attached to cora’s kids. i have absolutely zero complaints with how their relationship burned and how their love developed, it was just lovely.
But when you smile at me, your eyes hooded and heavy in the first light of day, it’s gold in my pockets, gold in my hands, gold in my unformed heart.
Gold, gold, gold, Cora.
I’ll gather your smiles, and they’ll make us rich.
they made me feel so much. both of them as characters were so strong and i adored how each of their characters was developed — along with the side characters, like gavin, tabby, and tess and leo (though can they really be called side characters when nathaniel fell so in love with them so readily and quickly?? 🥹). both of them were just fighting for what and who they believed in and stood for, and both of them quickly realized that was just their family — which nathaniel considered as just being cora and her kids. 🥺 and just stop, i wasn’t expecting this to be a little on the angstier side too? there was a little miscommunication but i didn’t mind in the least bit when everything was done so well and i ate it up. 😋 the moment nathaniel claimed tess and leo as his kids inside his head, i was a goner for this man. he’d literally do anything for them it’s adorable.
He had four children—two he made and two who had made him—and Nate loved them all fiercely, equally, differently.
🤰
they just saw each other, they knew each other. there is no purer love than that 💗 i love that they found each other and are a family now. they deserve everything in the world 🥹
May 5, 2023
6 stars
This was perfection in historical romance form. In love with these characters and this deeply romantic book.
Ms. Langston has found a fan in me for life.
Vlog coming soon
This was perfection in historical romance form. In love with these characters and this deeply romantic book.
Ms. Langston has found a fan in me for life.
Vlog coming soon
November 23, 2023
Many of my good reads friends really liked this book....I was just ok with it. I picked it up and put it down several times and then it got interesting. I very much enjoyed the way Nate was portrayed as devil may care rather unreliable old friend. He had great lines in the book and the "bad guys" are really portrayed as having no redeeming qualities. My problem was with the high anxiety continuous fretting Cora (yes, I know her world was about to end, her children were going to be taken away and she had a horrible marriage and has had to take care of everything always). I could relate to how her very real fears but it didn't make for a fully developed character to me. Nothing romantically happened till halfway through the book and then oh my, did it happen and happen all of the time. I wanted more sass from Cora (I know then it would have been a different story) so I varied between ad 3* and 4* due to great writing.
11/22/23 The more I thought about the book the more I wanted to give it 3*
11/22/23 The more I thought about the book the more I wanted to give it 3*
April 28, 2023
It’s fine I’m having an emotional breakdown though
I can’t decide if I loved the epilogue or wish I’d never read it because I’m fr in pain (read the spoiler section if you want to know more)
I do think it could’ve been a bit shorter in the middle there with the custody battle, but I loved the ending and when he finally said “my children” and such because that took me out. I liked how the custody battle was handled because I read a book with a very similar premise recently that handled it very poorly. It’s not my favorite plot set-up ever (I prefer them to be straight up wards or something) but I just loved the growth and emotional journey we went on.
This was super well written and it still has me in my feels hours later. The last few chapters really ended me I need to go dunk my head in a barrel of water or something. I’M STILL CRYING ITS HARD TO TYPE EVERYTHING IS BLURRY.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.25*/5
*There was some good bedpost action and a fair amount of sex scenes as well as other fade to black moments.
I received an eARC via a giveaway on Twitter! All opinions are honest and my own.
**SPOILERS**
Generally, I don’t find it a great thing to introduce readers to your writing via a novella and then kill one of those main characters off in the epilogue of your first full book 😭 he was only like 60??? And I promise I didn’t need to see Nate be the Earl that badly 🤧 I’m still crying even Lorraine Heath doesn’t go this hard
Part of the reason I love/hate those far in the future epilogues is bc confronting mortality is a STRUGGLE for me and I fixate on shit so like again I have too many emotions.
I’m not quite sure which book we’re getting next but idk if I’m emotionally prepared for any more crazy time jumps IM SICK
I can’t decide if I loved the epilogue or wish I’d never read it because I’m fr in pain (read the spoiler section if you want to know more)
I do think it could’ve been a bit shorter in the middle there with the custody battle, but I loved the ending and when he finally said “my children” and such because that took me out. I liked how the custody battle was handled because I read a book with a very similar premise recently that handled it very poorly. It’s not my favorite plot set-up ever (I prefer them to be straight up wards or something) but I just loved the growth and emotional journey we went on.
This was super well written and it still has me in my feels hours later. The last few chapters really ended me I need to go dunk my head in a barrel of water or something. I’M STILL CRYING ITS HARD TO TYPE EVERYTHING IS BLURRY.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.25*/5
*There was some good bedpost action and a fair amount of sex scenes as well as other fade to black moments.
I received an eARC via a giveaway on Twitter! All opinions are honest and my own.
**SPOILERS**
Generally, I don’t find it a great thing to introduce readers to your writing via a novella and then kill one of those main characters off in the epilogue of your first full book 😭 he was only like 60??? And I promise I didn’t need to see Nate be the Earl that badly 🤧 I’m still crying even Lorraine Heath doesn’t go this hard
Part of the reason I love/hate those far in the future epilogues is bc confronting mortality is a STRUGGLE for me and I fixate on shit so like again I have too many emotions.
I’m not quite sure which book we’re getting next but idk if I’m emotionally prepared for any more crazy time jumps IM SICK
July 26, 2023
ITS HAPPENING SHES GONNA BLESS US AGAIN WE’RE GETTING A BOOK FOR GAVIN 😭
- - - -
4.5-4.75 🌟
i swear single mom romance is gonna do it for me every single time 🤭 (and yes im a hypocritical hoe who LOATHES single dad with everything in me but loves tf out of single mom idccc it’s just not the same!)
the “my wife” moment is sweet and all in the marriage of convenience trope but the “MY CHILDREN” in single mom is underrated af where the love interest claims the fmc’s kids like his own 😭😭🥹🫶🏻
yesterday, i probably wrote the most disgusting essay of my academic career (worth like 20% of my overall grade for that class) because i was RUSHING to get back to this book. it was THAT good!!! i’ll regret that decision when i get back my grade 👩🏻🦯👩🏻🦯 right now though, i’m convinced it was all worth it
and how is this the author’s first full length novel and only her second one ever ????? i will be yelling at anyone who will listen to me to read this because she deserves sm more appreciation and i need her to continue blessing us 🙌🏻
I desperately need a book for cora's brother, that man would make the most perfect cinnamon roll love interest i can already just tell
tropes:
SINGLE MOM (aka the best trope)
second chance (kinda)
fake engagement
safety:
SO SAFE (imo)
no ow/om drama
no sharing
no cheating bw the main characters
fmc is a widow but her marriage was arranged and loveless (the dead husband was a two timing hoe and a dead beat dad)
- - - -
4.5-4.75 🌟
i swear single mom romance is gonna do it for me every single time 🤭 (and yes im a hypocritical hoe who LOATHES single dad with everything in me but loves tf out of single mom idccc it’s just not the same!)
the “my wife” moment is sweet and all in the marriage of convenience trope but the “MY CHILDREN” in single mom is underrated af where the love interest claims the fmc’s kids like his own 😭😭🥹🫶🏻
yesterday, i probably wrote the most disgusting essay of my academic career (worth like 20% of my overall grade for that class) because i was RUSHING to get back to this book. it was THAT good!!! i’ll regret that decision when i get back my grade 👩🏻🦯👩🏻🦯 right now though, i’m convinced it was all worth it
and how is this the author’s first full length novel and only her second one ever ????? i will be yelling at anyone who will listen to me to read this because she deserves sm more appreciation and i need her to continue blessing us 🙌🏻
I desperately need a book for cora's brother, that man would make the most perfect cinnamon roll love interest i can already just tell
tropes:
SINGLE MOM (aka the best trope)
second chance (kinda)
fake engagement
safety:
SO SAFE (imo)
no ow/om drama
no sharing
no cheating bw the main characters
fmc is a widow but her marriage was arranged and loveless (the dead husband was a two timing hoe and a dead beat dad)
June 6, 2023
I just discovered a bonus chapter on the author’s page and it’s perfect 😍😍😍
—-
I’m so in love…
Cora’s first marriage was not a love match, but the worst thing her first husband did to her transpired after his death. His will named his brother-in-law as their children’s legal guardian which means that Cora could lose the custody. It would help her case if she was married, or at least engaged, and that’s where Nate Travers comes to play.
In general I’m not a fan of children in romance novels, but it worked flawlessly here. I don’t want to go into details, let me just say that it’s hot af when a man is good with kids… But my favorite thing about Nate was his easygoing charm, confidence and sense of humor. He was a perfect book boyfriend but I was also inspired by his positive approach to life, I wish I could be like that!
Cora was amazing too, I loved how fiercely she fought for her family and I loved that once she realized that Nate was part of it, she fought for him too.
This story was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, the chemistry was off the charts and the spice was so good! 🔥🌶️🔥
I teared up a little when reading the epilogue, but the author’s note made me ugly cry and now I have mascara on my t-shirt.
——-
This was perfect… 🥹
RTC when I recover
—-
I’m so in love…
Cora’s first marriage was not a love match, but the worst thing her first husband did to her transpired after his death. His will named his brother-in-law as their children’s legal guardian which means that Cora could lose the custody. It would help her case if she was married, or at least engaged, and that’s where Nate Travers comes to play.
In general I’m not a fan of children in romance novels, but it worked flawlessly here. I don’t want to go into details, let me just say that it’s hot af when a man is good with kids… But my favorite thing about Nate was his easygoing charm, confidence and sense of humor. He was a perfect book boyfriend but I was also inspired by his positive approach to life, I wish I could be like that!
Cora was amazing too, I loved how fiercely she fought for her family and I loved that once she realized that Nate was part of it, she fought for him too.
This story was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time, the chemistry was off the charts and the spice was so good! 🔥🌶️🔥
I teared up a little when reading the epilogue, but the author’s note made me ugly cry and now I have mascara on my t-shirt.
——-
This was perfect… 🥹
RTC when I recover
February 29, 2024
Cora’s husband has died and shows an impressive amount of assholery that extends all the way up from hell. Facing the possibility of losing custody of her children to a vicar and his wife, who is every Roald Dahl villain combined, Cora concocts a plan to improve her image to her heinous in-laws by pretending to be engaged to the hottest man who has ever existed. Imagine the most appealing person you have ever met - now double it and you will have Nate, a graduate of the West Ravenel School of Reformed Reprobates. Nate agrees to the sham but doesn’t expect two children whose eyes are perfectly spherical at all times so like uh oh. Ugh tfw your kids are born before you sleep with their mother am I right? The ending will make you go “da da da da da da da get f***ing wrecked”. 5/5 tiny viscounts.
March 8, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to my GR friends who recommended this! Let me continue that and say I recommend this so much. Let me start by saying that I'm a mom and one of the reasons I read single parent romances is for the parenting moments. In this one, the feelings Cora (h) has for her children and the fears that they could be taken from her, were just beautifully represented and the scenes with the children, esp with the H, were wonderful. Also, the author did thorough research to properly setup the plot and the legal troubles women could find themselves entangled in to keep their children. She has a list of sources, including primary sources which made my historian heart happy. Even though the plight of these women was truly sad.
The book opens with Cora learning that her husband has died and she's not disappointed because it wasn't a good marriage and he wasn't a good father. But then he manages to mess with her further by naming his awful brother-in-law as a guardian of their two children and the in-laws threaten their little family. So Cora and her barrister brother come up with a plan that hinges on her BFF's brother, Nate (H), faking a betrothal to Cora. They haven't seen each other since Cora became engaged and nothing romantic was ever between them, but they were great at getting under each other's skin when they were younger and that comes out still. And oh how these two rock each other to their cores. Their ruse ends up involving all the emotions, the steam, the amazing parenting moments, the character development, and the swoon. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither were virgins (it's not clear how much experience H had, although it was clearly some and at one point this is thrown in the h's face by others, but there is nothing on page and once they meet again, he's focused on h).
I loved so many aspects of this book. There are letters between Cora and Nate and letters from their family members to them that were wonderful and added to the story. Cora is in an awful position and she's trying to control what she can and hold herself together. Meanwhile, Nate has a checkered history of not holding himself together, but finds that he can be something more supporting Cora and the children. He claims them over and over and some of the swooniest moments were when he referred to the kids as "his". He also wants to fight for them and truly prove himself to Cora. There is some push/pull, miscommunication, and adjusting their perceptions of each other, but they were a team and none of the more challenging moments drag on or turn into something too big that they can't overcome it. It was hard for these two to be vulnerable with each other and once the emotional intimacy started, I just sighed. Nate is also struggling with his relationship with his older brother, who was more like a father, and I was so invested in that relationship wanting him to feel valued for who he was and have them heal their rift.
Nate and Cora spend two weeks in the country together with the kids and the awful in-laws and even though it was fast, Nate's development from charming rogue to family man felt natural, never forced. Cora's realization that she didn't have to do everything on her own also felt natural, because she fights that feeling of depending on someone else, which made sense given her history. The character growth in this one was phenomenal. I wasn't sure if I would love either character when I started the story because their faults are on display in their first interaction, but by the end, I didn't know how I couldn't love them. Then the steam deserves it's own call-out because there's some good spice in this one. The timing and amount of it was also good.
The side characters were excellent throughout the book esp Cora's brother and her BFF, who I wondered if they might get a book together, even though the BFF is married. I thought the humorous parts balanced the more serious and dramatic ones really well. There were places I thought the pacing was a bit off, but it never felt draggy. One of my friends mentioned the story being verbose in places and I agree that there was some wordiness in places. I wished that Cora stood up to her in-laws earlier, but I understood she was terrified, still some of those scenes were hard and hurt my heart. I also wanted Nate to be more open at times with what he was thinking and planning, but I understood that too.
I loved the ending from the final chapters to the extended epilogue and that sense of just satisfaction and joy that the characters are completely in their HEA. The epilogue is 20+ years into the future and all the feels. This book made me cry in more than one place. I can't wait to see what the next book by this author is like.
Thank you to my GR friends who recommended this! Let me continue that and say I recommend this so much. Let me start by saying that I'm a mom and one of the reasons I read single parent romances is for the parenting moments. In this one, the feelings Cora (h) has for her children and the fears that they could be taken from her, were just beautifully represented and the scenes with the children, esp with the H, were wonderful. Also, the author did thorough research to properly setup the plot and the legal troubles women could find themselves entangled in to keep their children. She has a list of sources, including primary sources which made my historian heart happy. Even though the plight of these women was truly sad.
The book opens with Cora learning that her husband has died and she's not disappointed because it wasn't a good marriage and he wasn't a good father. But then he manages to mess with her further by naming his awful brother-in-law as a guardian of their two children and the in-laws threaten their little family. So Cora and her barrister brother come up with a plan that hinges on her BFF's brother, Nate (H), faking a betrothal to Cora. They haven't seen each other since Cora became engaged and nothing romantic was ever between them, but they were great at getting under each other's skin when they were younger and that comes out still. And oh how these two rock each other to their cores. Their ruse ends up involving all the emotions, the steam, the amazing parenting moments, the character development, and the swoon. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither were virgins (it's not clear how much experience H had, although it was clearly some and at one point this is thrown in the h's face by others, but there is nothing on page and once they meet again, he's focused on h).
I loved so many aspects of this book. There are letters between Cora and Nate and letters from their family members to them that were wonderful and added to the story. Cora is in an awful position and she's trying to control what she can and hold herself together. Meanwhile, Nate has a checkered history of not holding himself together, but finds that he can be something more supporting Cora and the children. He claims them over and over and some of the swooniest moments were when he referred to the kids as "his". He also wants to fight for them and truly prove himself to Cora. There is some push/pull, miscommunication, and adjusting their perceptions of each other, but they were a team and none of the more challenging moments drag on or turn into something too big that they can't overcome it. It was hard for these two to be vulnerable with each other and once the emotional intimacy started, I just sighed. Nate is also struggling with his relationship with his older brother, who was more like a father, and I was so invested in that relationship wanting him to feel valued for who he was and have them heal their rift.
Nate and Cora spend two weeks in the country together with the kids and the awful in-laws and even though it was fast, Nate's development from charming rogue to family man felt natural, never forced. Cora's realization that she didn't have to do everything on her own also felt natural, because she fights that feeling of depending on someone else, which made sense given her history. The character growth in this one was phenomenal. I wasn't sure if I would love either character when I started the story because their faults are on display in their first interaction, but by the end, I didn't know how I couldn't love them. Then the steam deserves it's own call-out because there's some good spice in this one. The timing and amount of it was also good.
The side characters were excellent throughout the book esp Cora's brother and her BFF, who I wondered if they might get a book together, even though the BFF is married. I thought the humorous parts balanced the more serious and dramatic ones really well. There were places I thought the pacing was a bit off, but it never felt draggy. One of my friends mentioned the story being verbose in places and I agree that there was some wordiness in places. I wished that Cora stood up to her in-laws earlier, but I understood she was terrified, still some of those scenes were hard and hurt my heart. I also wanted Nate to be more open at times with what he was thinking and planning, but I understood that too.
I loved the ending from the final chapters to the extended epilogue and that sense of just satisfaction and joy that the characters are completely in their HEA. The epilogue is 20+ years into the future and all the feels. This book made me cry in more than one place. I can't wait to see what the next book by this author is like.
May 1, 2024
3.5 stars
When Lady Dane's husband unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself in a predicament with the her late husband's family and custody of her children. To resolve this, she enters into a fake relationship with Nathaniel Travers who owes her a favor. But as the two spend time together, and Nate spends time with Cora and her children, the entire family begins to become attached as outside forces threaten to tear them apart.
One of those solid I liked it but didn't love it kind of books. I feel like the author could have shaved off a good 50-100 pages of this book and it would have been a 4 or 5 star read, but stretches of this book felt like a bit of a slog to get through. I really liked Nate as a romantic hero because he was flawed but did his best to learn and grow and improve upon himself. Cora was also solidly okay in that I didn't have strong feelings about her either way. Overall one of those books where I enjoyed it, but it didn't hit me as hard as it did other readers (as I can see by the reviews).
When Lady Dane's husband unexpectedly passes away, she finds herself in a predicament with the her late husband's family and custody of her children. To resolve this, she enters into a fake relationship with Nathaniel Travers who owes her a favor. But as the two spend time together, and Nate spends time with Cora and her children, the entire family begins to become attached as outside forces threaten to tear them apart.
One of those solid I liked it but didn't love it kind of books. I feel like the author could have shaved off a good 50-100 pages of this book and it would have been a 4 or 5 star read, but stretches of this book felt like a bit of a slog to get through. I really liked Nate as a romantic hero because he was flawed but did his best to learn and grow and improve upon himself. Cora was also solidly okay in that I didn't have strong feelings about her either way. Overall one of those books where I enjoyed it, but it didn't hit me as hard as it did other readers (as I can see by the reviews).
March 29, 2023
3,5 💘💘💘⭐️s
A nice historical single mom romance read.
I liked both main characters, their flaws and their vulnerabilities, their emotional growth.
However, it could have been much less descriptive and verbose.
The epilogue was wonderful!
Thanks to RLbooks for bringing this story to my attention. 🥰
A nice historical single mom romance read.
I liked both main characters, their flaws and their vulnerabilities, their emotional growth.
However, it could have been much less descriptive and verbose.
The epilogue was wonderful!
Thanks to RLbooks for bringing this story to my attention. 🥰
June 19, 2024
Gah… I loved this… this is the reason I read romance
I’m not crying… you’re crying 😭.
The character growth, the relationship, the parenthood, the I’ll-always-be-here-for-you, the my-wife-my-kids, the epilogue, the solid rock needed in a man/father and the fight mothers/women face, all of it… I loved all of it 😭 and I didn’t want it to end 🥹
Cora/Lady Dane (23) has been a widow for a year now, and her deceased husband’s (cheater, terrible husband and even worse father) relatives are threatening to take her children to “raise them to be respectable people” 😒. His BIL was named as guardian and his sister constantly belittles Cora. As a widow/single mother, she feels powerless ☹️, until her brother Gavin suggests that she marries someone to have a fighting chance at getting guardianship of her kids, someone like his BFF Nathaniel Traverse (27) whom she’s known for a long time.
Nate’s a rogue, and his brother Raymond (H from A Day Until Forever) is tired of it 😬. Nate’s latest interest involves the railway proposal, but Raymond’s not going to support him 😅. So when Cora writes to him over and over again, and eventually seeks him out with a proposal for a fake engagement that’ll benefit him tremendously, he acquiesces and agrees to do it for the fortnight so that she can gain an advantage to try to win the guardianship of her children.
Two weeks won’t be so bad right? Who cares if they can’t help but stare at each other’s lips 👀 or find it hard to breathe when they’re in the same room 👀.
So when Cora asks Nate to give her a proper kiss… 🔥 sparks threaten to consume them…
Will they be able to say goodbye?
What I liked/loved: possible spoilers
—the character growths👏🏻. I love that both Nate and Cora get better and better as the book progresses! I also love that Cora doesn’t hold back with Nate ❤️ and he’s amazing at reassuring her and ensuring they have a solid connection 🥹. Gaaaahhh 🫶
—the 🔥. EXCUSE ME… this book had no right being so STEEEEEAMY and SPIIIICY 🫠. Jaaaaaysus 🥵. Sure, Cora notices how fit Nate is when he’s teaching her son Leo how to swim, and Nate has erotic dreams 😉, but when she asks them to give her a real kiss, all bets are her off… let the 🔥 begin, and oh does it ever 😉. Their first kiss is at about 46% while playing piano leading to full 🔥 by 54% 💦 and continuing the 🔥 in the epilogue too 👀. Also, props to writing an accurate library ladder scene 😅
—the tension was tensioning 🥵. Lawd 🫠. The buildup 👏🏻. Going slow was such a smart move Nate 😉. I couldn’t handle it if it was faster 😅
—“hold the bedpost” 🫠. Lordt. Give me strength 🥵. This needs it own bullet
—mark me back 😮💨. Yeah… I’ve expired 🫠. I don’t know how I’m writing this 😅
—showing her what true lovemaking and what it means to eat a hearty breakfast 😉🔥
— being protective 🫶. The way Nate fights for the children is everything 🥹. He takes the role of being a role model and a loving adult seriously, and he shows up for these kids ❤️. They don’t know what it’s like to be loved by a father since theirs was a terrible one, and Nate takes it upon himself to show them what they should’ve had 😭. Not only does he teach Leo how to swim, but he saves Tess from her fear of dogs 🥹. He never differentiates from them and basically claims them as his own
—playing with the kids 🥹. Such wholesome moments 🫶.
—Nate being all in before Cora is 👀. While she’s thinking about their time ending, he’s thinking about their time continuing 😉. Even when he kind of ghosts her, it’s really because he’s planning to stay 💁🏻♀️. Not only that, but he backs her up and acts as the support she didn’t know she needed 🥹🫶
— the historical accuracy ❤️. I love that the author included sources from the research. She did to make this book as historically accurate as possible, with the caveat that, of course, things need to have an HEA 🫶. I found myself reading all of her notes at the end of the book, and also extremely frustrated. Being a single mom sucks, specifically during this time, because of the lack of rights women had ☹️. It’s so frustrating ☹️
—finding ways to protect his little family 🥹. My heart can only take so much Nate 😭
—the letters ❤️. I love that we got letters from different people, but the ones that made my heart pitter patter or the ones from Nate to Cora 🫶
—telling the CARLETONS off 👏🏻. I had to highlight this lol, especially when she demonstrates exactly why Nate is 1000 times better than her deceased husband 💁🏻♀️
—the epilogue 😭❤️🫶. Gahhhh! This is like two decades into the future, and I was simply melting with how much I loved it 🥹🫶❤️
What I didn’t like/wish it had: possible spoilers
—the epilogue ☹️. Raymond 😭
— the scene where the women are talking about Nate’s past 😒. Yes, I know no one is a v in this book, but I hated that the women were talking so badly about Nate, specifically insinuating that he might have a widow fetish 🙄. Luckily, Nate assures Cora that she is it for him ❤️ but still 😐 I was definitely feeling some type of way
— I know I shouldn’t be bothered by this, but I wish we had some kind of safety info in regards to 🔥. But, with the way Nate was devoted to Cora, it didn’t bother me as much as it could’ve
Overall, I LUUUUURVED IT and didn’t want it to end 😭
Shoutout to the narrators 👏🏻. I wish it was duet narration, but I still loved it.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating*/sharing/owd*/omd
-cheating dead husband
-although there’s no true owd, there’s a scene where the H’s past is mentioned, this scene was really more too rile the h
-widowed h
-marking/edging
-no condoms (good ol’ pull out method is used)
-HEA/epilogue/20+ years later
I’m not crying… you’re crying 😭.
The character growth, the relationship, the parenthood, the I’ll-always-be-here-for-you, the my-wife-my-kids, the epilogue, the solid rock needed in a man/father and the fight mothers/women face, all of it… I loved all of it 😭 and I didn’t want it to end 🥹
Cora/Lady Dane (23) has been a widow for a year now, and her deceased husband’s (cheater, terrible husband and even worse father) relatives are threatening to take her children to “raise them to be respectable people” 😒. His BIL was named as guardian and his sister constantly belittles Cora. As a widow/single mother, she feels powerless ☹️, until her brother Gavin suggests that she marries someone to have a fighting chance at getting guardianship of her kids, someone like his BFF Nathaniel Traverse (27) whom she’s known for a long time.
Nate’s a rogue, and his brother Raymond (H from A Day Until Forever) is tired of it 😬. Nate’s latest interest involves the railway proposal, but Raymond’s not going to support him 😅. So when Cora writes to him over and over again, and eventually seeks him out with a proposal for a fake engagement that’ll benefit him tremendously, he acquiesces and agrees to do it for the fortnight so that she can gain an advantage to try to win the guardianship of her children.
Two weeks won’t be so bad right? Who cares if they can’t help but stare at each other’s lips 👀 or find it hard to breathe when they’re in the same room 👀.
So when Cora asks Nate to give her a proper kiss… 🔥 sparks threaten to consume them…
Will they be able to say goodbye?
What I liked/loved: possible spoilers
—the character growths👏🏻. I love that both Nate and Cora get better and better as the book progresses! I also love that Cora doesn’t hold back with Nate ❤️ and he’s amazing at reassuring her and ensuring they have a solid connection 🥹. Gaaaahhh 🫶
—the 🔥. EXCUSE ME… this book had no right being so STEEEEEAMY and SPIIIICY 🫠. Jaaaaaysus 🥵. Sure, Cora notices how fit Nate is when he’s teaching her son Leo how to swim, and Nate has erotic dreams 😉, but when she asks them to give her a real kiss, all bets are her off… let the 🔥 begin, and oh does it ever 😉. Their first kiss is at about 46% while playing piano leading to full 🔥 by 54% 💦 and continuing the 🔥 in the epilogue too 👀. Also, props to writing an accurate library ladder scene 😅
—the tension was tensioning 🥵. Lawd 🫠. The buildup 👏🏻. Going slow was such a smart move Nate 😉. I couldn’t handle it if it was faster 😅
—“hold the bedpost” 🫠. Lordt. Give me strength 🥵. This needs it own bullet
—mark me back 😮💨. Yeah… I’ve expired 🫠. I don’t know how I’m writing this 😅
—showing her what true lovemaking and what it means to eat a hearty breakfast 😉🔥
— being protective 🫶. The way Nate fights for the children is everything 🥹. He takes the role of being a role model and a loving adult seriously, and he shows up for these kids ❤️. They don’t know what it’s like to be loved by a father since theirs was a terrible one, and Nate takes it upon himself to show them what they should’ve had 😭. Not only does he teach Leo how to swim, but he saves Tess from her fear of dogs 🥹. He never differentiates from them and basically claims them as his own
—playing with the kids 🥹. Such wholesome moments 🫶.
—Nate being all in before Cora is 👀. While she’s thinking about their time ending, he’s thinking about their time continuing 😉. Even when he kind of ghosts her, it’s really because he’s planning to stay 💁🏻♀️. Not only that, but he backs her up and acts as the support she didn’t know she needed 🥹🫶
— the historical accuracy ❤️. I love that the author included sources from the research. She did to make this book as historically accurate as possible, with the caveat that, of course, things need to have an HEA 🫶. I found myself reading all of her notes at the end of the book, and also extremely frustrated. Being a single mom sucks, specifically during this time, because of the lack of rights women had ☹️. It’s so frustrating ☹️
—finding ways to protect his little family 🥹. My heart can only take so much Nate 😭
—the letters ❤️. I love that we got letters from different people, but the ones that made my heart pitter patter or the ones from Nate to Cora 🫶
—telling the CARLETONS off 👏🏻. I had to highlight this lol, especially when she demonstrates exactly why Nate is 1000 times better than her deceased husband 💁🏻♀️
—the epilogue 😭❤️🫶. Gahhhh! This is like two decades into the future, and I was simply melting with how much I loved it 🥹🫶❤️
What I didn’t like/wish it had: possible spoilers
—the epilogue ☹️. Raymond 😭
— the scene where the women are talking about Nate’s past 😒. Yes, I know no one is a v in this book, but I hated that the women were talking so badly about Nate, specifically insinuating that he might have a widow fetish 🙄. Luckily, Nate assures Cora that she is it for him ❤️ but still 😐 I was definitely feeling some type of way
— I know I shouldn’t be bothered by this, but I wish we had some kind of safety info in regards to 🔥. But, with the way Nate was devoted to Cora, it didn’t bother me as much as it could’ve
Overall, I LUUUUURVED IT and didn’t want it to end 😭
Shoutout to the narrators 👏🏻. I wish it was duet narration, but I still loved it.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating*/sharing/owd*/omd
-cheating dead husband
-although there’s no true owd, there’s a scene where the H’s past is mentioned, this scene was really more too rile the h
-widowed h
-marking/edging
-no condoms (good ol’ pull out method is used)
-HEA/epilogue/20+ years later
March 31, 2023
Read: 3/31/23
3.5 stars
The story begins with the h being in dire trouble. Cora is now free from her cruel, indifferent husband. Unfortunately, her sister-in-law is one of her children's guardians, and what a peach she is! The woman has been cruelly tormenting Cora about removing her children from her care. One of her complaints is that an independent woman wouldn't be able to take proper care of her children. Now that Cora is finally out of mourning, she can get engaged and file for sole guardianship. It has to be a fake engagement since she NEVER wants to marry again.
Insert H: Nate's brother has recently cut him off financially when he receives a letter from his sister's bff, Cora. They've known each other for years since. Still, he is shocked when she gives him her proposition. She'll pay him to be her fiancee for 2 weeks (@ her country estate). He reluctantly agrees and surprise surprise they fall in love.
I really adored Nate 🥰. He was a loveable, carefree rascal. I loved watching him defend Caro against that b***h and her husband. I was also delighted by his relationship with her children. Their banter back and forth was adorable and melted my heart. He also understands Cora's need for control and lack of trust.
Cora was hard for me to like at first. She was bossy, and her attitude toward Nate was irritating. Of course, she's under a lot of pressure. Her children are her whole world, and she can't lose them, which is why she has to bite her tongue when dealing with cruel in-laws. Hopefully, Caro can secretly get guardianship with her fake engagement. She needs to start trusting Nate.
I really enjoyed watching these two become friends, then lovers. Theirs was a slow burn romance. They don't kiss until 48% into the book, but they sure make up for lost time🥵. I also liked that they worked as a team and seemed to bring out the best in each other. Anytime they had a misunderstanding or doubt, they would talk to each other 😲. Shocking in a hr!
The secondary characters were also well written. The children behave like children 😲! They were adorable sometimes and chaotic at others. They added a lot of levity to the story. The MC's siblings were nice additions as well. The villians were very believable. I wanted to tape the sister-in-law's mouth shut. She enjoyed playing her mind games.
So why only 3 stars? The h never questions why her sister-in-law wants her children especially since she appears to hate them. Could she have any other reason? Hmm..🤑 maybe? This motive never even occures to the h? I wanted Cora to hire a private investigator and go on the offense. Her brother is a lawyer. You would think he would know they need more than a fake engagement. It was frustrating waiting for the other shoe to drop. I knew it was coming, and the longer it took, the more aggravated I became. Maybe it was just my mood🤔 but it kept me from enjoying the book otherwise.
In conclusion, I think this was a pretty good read! The author did a great job with the characters and the book's pacing. I just wish the characters were smarter about the legal case, which was the whole point of them being together!
3.5 stars
The story begins with the h being in dire trouble. Cora is now free from her cruel, indifferent husband. Unfortunately, her sister-in-law is one of her children's guardians, and what a peach she is! The woman has been cruelly tormenting Cora about removing her children from her care. One of her complaints is that an independent woman wouldn't be able to take proper care of her children. Now that Cora is finally out of mourning, she can get engaged and file for sole guardianship. It has to be a fake engagement since she NEVER wants to marry again.
Insert H: Nate's brother has recently cut him off financially when he receives a letter from his sister's bff, Cora. They've known each other for years since. Still, he is shocked when she gives him her proposition. She'll pay him to be her fiancee for 2 weeks (@ her country estate). He reluctantly agrees and surprise surprise they fall in love.
I really adored Nate 🥰. He was a loveable, carefree rascal. I loved watching him defend Caro against that b***h and her husband. I was also delighted by his relationship with her children. Their banter back and forth was adorable and melted my heart. He also understands Cora's need for control and lack of trust.
Cora was hard for me to like at first. She was bossy, and her attitude toward Nate was irritating. Of course, she's under a lot of pressure. Her children are her whole world, and she can't lose them, which is why she has to bite her tongue when dealing with cruel in-laws. Hopefully, Caro can secretly get guardianship with her fake engagement. She needs to start trusting Nate.
I really enjoyed watching these two become friends, then lovers. Theirs was a slow burn romance. They don't kiss until 48% into the book, but they sure make up for lost time🥵. I also liked that they worked as a team and seemed to bring out the best in each other. Anytime they had a misunderstanding or doubt, they would talk to each other 😲. Shocking in a hr!
The secondary characters were also well written. The children behave like children 😲! They were adorable sometimes and chaotic at others. They added a lot of levity to the story. The MC's siblings were nice additions as well. The villians were very believable. I wanted to tape the sister-in-law's mouth shut. She enjoyed playing her mind games.
So why only 3 stars? The h never questions why her sister-in-law wants her children especially since she appears to hate them. Could she have any other reason? Hmm..🤑 maybe? This motive never even occures to the h? I wanted Cora to hire a private investigator and go on the offense. Her brother is a lawyer. You would think he would know they need more than a fake engagement. It was frustrating waiting for the other shoe to drop. I knew it was coming, and the longer it took, the more aggravated I became. Maybe it was just my mood🤔 but it kept me from enjoying the book otherwise.
In conclusion, I think this was a pretty good read! The author did a great job with the characters and the book's pacing. I just wish the characters were smarter about the legal case, which was the whole point of them being together!
January 30, 2024
every time i read a historical romance i get reminded why i adore historical romances lmao i should read them more i swear!!!!
FOREVER YOUR ROGUE IS SUBLIME, AMAZING, BEAUTIFUL, 1O OUT OF 10.
thank you everyone i follow that has read this book, talked about this book, because you are right. this book is IT. i mean HE WROTE HER LOVE LETTERS???? HE CALLS HER KIDS HIS AND THOSE ARE HIS BABIES TOO AND DJKBKFDFDF please i'm emotional again
FOREVER YOUR ROGUE IS SUBLIME, AMAZING, BEAUTIFUL, 1O OUT OF 10.
thank you everyone i follow that has read this book, talked about this book, because you are right. this book is IT. i mean HE WROTE HER LOVE LETTERS???? HE CALLS HER KIDS HIS AND THOSE ARE HIS BABIES TOO AND DJKBKFDFDF please i'm emotional again
October 27, 2023
uhhh i just listened audiobook sample and i think i'm 🤰🏼🤰🏼🤰🏼 NOVEMBER 7 I'M WAITING FOR YOU😍😍😍😍😍
~~~~~~
so it's march and i already found my favorite book of the year
He had four children—two he made and two who had made him—and Nate loved them all fiercely, equally, differently.
~~~~~~
so it's march and i already found my favorite book of the year
He had four children—two he made and two who had made him—and Nate loved them all fiercely, equally, differently.
August 29, 2024
I'm on a literal high from the end of this book. Swooning. I loved it.
December 14, 2023
Reread for 2023 favorites
Still as brilliant as ever.
**********
Wow. My instincts were correct to dive unto this today.
Absolute perfection and I am completely besotted.
6 stars
3 on the spice scale
Still as brilliant as ever.
**********
Wow. My instincts were correct to dive unto this today.
Absolute perfection and I am completely besotted.
6 stars
3 on the spice scale
March 11, 2023
4.5 stars. This was a beautiful story with a man who finally grows up when he falls in love with a widow’s children and her.
I hate how much of a manwhore the hero is. And how he fights his responsibilities so hard.
But he, once a orphan himself, sees the needs of these two children and steps up. And then he’s in.
Please note that there are a LOT of sexy times in this book. That often makes me anxious in historical romance to have sexy times when they aren’t married because I know the consequences could be terrible for the woman if they are caught. But they never are caught and it doesn’t come close. So, you can relax and enjoy.
This has a beautiful epilogue showing the whole family 20 years later and it’s lovely.
I hate how much of a manwhore the hero is. And how he fights his responsibilities so hard.
But he, once a orphan himself, sees the needs of these two children and steps up. And then he’s in.
Please note that there are a LOT of sexy times in this book. That often makes me anxious in historical romance to have sexy times when they aren’t married because I know the consequences could be terrible for the woman if they are caught. But they never are caught and it doesn’t come close. So, you can relax and enjoy.
This has a beautiful epilogue showing the whole family 20 years later and it’s lovely.
September 21, 2023
RATING: 4.25✨
SPICE: 🌶1/2
Trope/Setting Highlights:
✔ Little over ~450 pages
✔ Historical romance
✔ Open door spice (multiple scenes🔥)
✔ Slight epistolary elements
✔ Friends-to-estranged-to-fake-engaged-to-lovers
✔ Single mom, recently widowed FMC
✔ Rogue MMC ends up “reformed rogue” trope
✔ MMC falls first and hard. I mean MMC down BAD for FMC, man was obsessed
✔ FMC learning to trust in love again after a loveless marriage
✔ Emotional family moments
✔ HEA (but epilogue had me sobbing so…)
Review:
Such an easy and well-deserved 4.25✨Short and sweet review from me because I don’t think I can say better what other reviewers before me have already captured.
On its front, this book had some things inherently working against it for me, on a personal preference level. I tend to stay away from romance books where the main couple already knows each other or is already friends, simply (and without any malice) because I sometimes feel cheated out of the delicious relationship development we get from a first glance, first meeting, first impression, first touch… the slow burn tension from those charged interactions is probably one of my favorite things about books with a romantic storyline.
This also leads to my preference about main characters already having kids at the start of a story. It’s not my favorite thing to read about, single dad/mom/parent or otherwise, it just never often strikes my fancy, unless heavily recommended by people I trust (like this one)! It’s not that I feel anything against children at all, it’s just that I want to read everything happen before and earn those developments, so it feels more like a future destination vs like a passing roadside stand. (and OK I admit I do have a thing against unplanned/unwanted pregnancy or pregnancy storylines taking up the majority of a plot, but let’s not talk about it lol, since that isn't the case here at all!).
HOWEVER, I was surprised to find that this novel still more than worked for me, and that has to do with the emotional depth and endearing nature of its cast of characters. Cora and Nate, the two MCs, had a truly beautiful and real relationship, one built on mutual respect, learned trust, and earned love.
When Cora’s uncaring and rarely present husband passes away unexpectedly, she’s left a widow at barely 23 years old with two young children to care for. When Cora’s in-laws make it clear they intend to take her children to raise with what they view as the proper care and role modeling, which to them isn’t an unmarried, affectionate, forgiving mother, Cora, with the help of her brother and friend, has little choice but to come up with a plan. A plan that involves legally remanding the care of her children solely to her, or at least to her and a male of her choice (time-relevant sexism, boooo).
Enter the picture, Nate Travers.
Cora and Nate knew each other during their (late) teens, and after a fateful night where Nate takes his rakish gambling ways too far, Cora leaves for her arranged marriage, all while knowing, though never intending to collect, that Nate owes her a secret favor. In Cora’s desperation, now comes the time to collect.
From the very beginning of the fake engagement, it was clear on page the depth of the emotion both characters held for each other, and it was a true pleasure to watch those feelings only grow over the course of the story.
I have truly never seen a MMC down worse for his woman (and her, THEIR, children). Although Cora is truly her OWN woman, first and foremost. A woman and a mother. But Nate, once he fully realized what this family meant to him, committed to the role full stop. His poetic and romantic language for Cora and the children melted my heart bit by bit, until the epilogue tore it open with emotion and tears.
Overall, this was a historical romance unlike any I’ve read before, and I will seek out other works by this author, as well as other books that try to capture this same magic.
SPICE: 🌶1/2
Trope/Setting Highlights:
✔ Little over ~450 pages
✔ Historical romance
✔ Open door spice (multiple scenes🔥)
✔ Slight epistolary elements
✔ Friends-to-estranged-to-fake-engaged-to-lovers
✔ Single mom, recently widowed FMC
✔ Rogue MMC ends up “reformed rogue” trope
✔ MMC falls first and hard. I mean MMC down BAD for FMC, man was obsessed
✔ FMC learning to trust in love again after a loveless marriage
✔ Emotional family moments
✔ HEA (but epilogue had me sobbing so…)
Review:
Such an easy and well-deserved 4.25✨Short and sweet review from me because I don’t think I can say better what other reviewers before me have already captured.
On its front, this book had some things inherently working against it for me, on a personal preference level. I tend to stay away from romance books where the main couple already knows each other or is already friends, simply (and without any malice) because I sometimes feel cheated out of the delicious relationship development we get from a first glance, first meeting, first impression, first touch… the slow burn tension from those charged interactions is probably one of my favorite things about books with a romantic storyline.
This also leads to my preference about main characters already having kids at the start of a story. It’s not my favorite thing to read about, single dad/mom/parent or otherwise, it just never often strikes my fancy, unless heavily recommended by people I trust (like this one)! It’s not that I feel anything against children at all, it’s just that I want to read everything happen before and earn those developments, so it feels more like a future destination vs like a passing roadside stand. (and OK I admit I do have a thing against unplanned/unwanted pregnancy or pregnancy storylines taking up the majority of a plot, but let’s not talk about it lol, since that isn't the case here at all!).
HOWEVER, I was surprised to find that this novel still more than worked for me, and that has to do with the emotional depth and endearing nature of its cast of characters. Cora and Nate, the two MCs, had a truly beautiful and real relationship, one built on mutual respect, learned trust, and earned love.
When Cora’s uncaring and rarely present husband passes away unexpectedly, she’s left a widow at barely 23 years old with two young children to care for. When Cora’s in-laws make it clear they intend to take her children to raise with what they view as the proper care and role modeling, which to them isn’t an unmarried, affectionate, forgiving mother, Cora, with the help of her brother and friend, has little choice but to come up with a plan. A plan that involves legally remanding the care of her children solely to her, or at least to her and a male of her choice (time-relevant sexism, boooo).
Enter the picture, Nate Travers.
Cora and Nate knew each other during their (late) teens, and after a fateful night where Nate takes his rakish gambling ways too far, Cora leaves for her arranged marriage, all while knowing, though never intending to collect, that Nate owes her a secret favor. In Cora’s desperation, now comes the time to collect.
From the very beginning of the fake engagement, it was clear on page the depth of the emotion both characters held for each other, and it was a true pleasure to watch those feelings only grow over the course of the story.
I have truly never seen a MMC down worse for his woman (and her, THEIR, children). Although Cora is truly her OWN woman, first and foremost. A woman and a mother. But Nate, once he fully realized what this family meant to him, committed to the role full stop. His poetic and romantic language for Cora and the children melted my heart bit by bit, until the epilogue tore it open with emotion and tears.
Overall, this was a historical romance unlike any I’ve read before, and I will seek out other works by this author, as well as other books that try to capture this same magic.
May 6, 2023
A breath of fresh air...Loved it. Relatable, enjoyable, sexy page turning bliss. Deeply, emotionally satisfying. Struck all the right chords.This is the kind of story that stays with you; probably one of the best reformed rake stories I've read.
Absolutely all heart.
This author will be one to watch.
💗📚💗
Absolutely all heart.
This author will be one to watch.
💗📚💗
February 24, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (There is one scene that was really nicely developed, the others are a mix)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): Between🔥 and 🔥🔥🔥 depending how you count...I usually count no orgasm scenes as ‘partials’ and not as flames...and Langston liked to write really nicely developed scenes that fade right at the end. So one definitely full complete scene and 2 more that are pretty lengthy but end up fading at the very end... I feel like giving this 1 flame would be deceiving, but some might be disappointed in the fade to black at the end of scenes
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? a mix, but maybe a touch more character?
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: It took a bit – Chapter 5 or so
Cliffhanger: No, this end with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, a month or so later
Format: listened to bought audiobook
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I believe this was Langston’s debut, but there is a prequel novella now titled A Day Until Forever you could read.
Basic plot:
Cora is at risk of losing custody of her children and relies on an old connection providing her with the security of appearing betrothed.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1819)
- widow heroine
- bit of an ugly duckling hero vibe
- children in the story
- prior acquaintances – they knew each other briefly before heroine was married
- fake betrothal/marriage of convenience
- the best love declaration!
- repairing family bonds
- medium steam feels – there’s 1 ‘full’ scene as I count them and a few partials that are really lengthy and nice except they fade for final explosions
Ages:
- hero is 27, I didn’t catch heroine but think she’s a similar age, maybe a touch younger
First line: (Taken from audio, probably butchered)
In Cora Danes estimation, this seemed the sort of occasion that called for whiskey, or at the very least the sort of occasion that called for the pageantry of whiskey.
My thoughts:
I ended up just loving this book so much!
I didn’t know much about it before diving in. And I will admit as the story started to unfold – I was NOT feeling it. I do get extremely angry about toxic family relationships/aggressive family situations due to my own history, and Cora’s husband’s relatives are just awful. I also am not a huge fan of children in my romance.
And let’s just say Nate definitely leaves a lot to be desired when we meet him.
But, Langston took all these things that I shy away from, and ended up making me so invested in it all. She took a story that in her hands, created these in depth relationships, longing and tension that I crave.
She made me like the kids! Gasp!
I adored Nate’s turn around in this one. I loved his budding relationship with Cora’s children. I loved how he fell in love with Cora and went all in even at risk to his own heart.
The children didn’t take over the plot for me which was great. It was also kind of nice that they didn’t appear for the first ¼ of the book so I really started to get attached to Cora and Nate first. I loved Nate’s turn around for his character.
My only complaint is all the fading to black at the very end of scenes! A lot of scenes still felt full because they were so detailed, but I wanted it all haha.
After this, I definitely have Langston’s other novels on my TBR!
As for the narration, I have really liked Justine Eyre in a few novels (Vivienne Lorret's come to mind) but I didn't like her in this book. I'm not sure what was going on but I thought she sounded really raspy and gravelly. Will M Watt however is a new favorite! I will absolutely be seeking out more books with his narration because his voice is super swoony.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 4.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (There is one scene that was really nicely developed, the others are a mix)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): Between🔥 and 🔥🔥🔥 depending how you count...I usually count no orgasm scenes as ‘partials’ and not as flames...and Langston liked to write really nicely developed scenes that fade right at the end. So one definitely full complete scene and 2 more that are pretty lengthy but end up fading at the very end... I feel like giving this 1 flame would be deceiving, but some might be disappointed in the fade to black at the end of scenes
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? a mix, but maybe a touch more character?
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: It took a bit – Chapter 5 or so
Cliffhanger: No, this end with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, a month or so later
Format: listened to bought audiobook
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I believe this was Langston’s debut, but there is a prequel novella now titled A Day Until Forever you could read.
Basic plot:
Cora is at risk of losing custody of her children and relies on an old connection providing her with the security of appearing betrothed.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (1819)
- widow heroine
- bit of an ugly duckling hero vibe
- children in the story
- prior acquaintances – they knew each other briefly before heroine was married
- fake betrothal/marriage of convenience
- the best love declaration!
- repairing family bonds
- medium steam feels – there’s 1 ‘full’ scene as I count them and a few partials that are really lengthy and nice except they fade for final explosions
Ages:
- hero is 27, I didn’t catch heroine but think she’s a similar age, maybe a touch younger
First line: (Taken from audio, probably butchered)
In Cora Danes estimation, this seemed the sort of occasion that called for whiskey, or at the very least the sort of occasion that called for the pageantry of whiskey.
My thoughts:
I ended up just loving this book so much!
I didn’t know much about it before diving in. And I will admit as the story started to unfold – I was NOT feeling it. I do get extremely angry about toxic family relationships/aggressive family situations due to my own history, and Cora’s husband’s relatives are just awful. I also am not a huge fan of children in my romance.
And let’s just say Nate definitely leaves a lot to be desired when we meet him.
But, Langston took all these things that I shy away from, and ended up making me so invested in it all. She took a story that in her hands, created these in depth relationships, longing and tension that I crave.
She made me like the kids! Gasp!
I adored Nate’s turn around in this one. I loved his budding relationship with Cora’s children. I loved how he fell in love with Cora and went all in even at risk to his own heart.
The children didn’t take over the plot for me which was great. It was also kind of nice that they didn’t appear for the first ¼ of the book so I really started to get attached to Cora and Nate first. I loved Nate’s turn around for his character.
My only complaint is all the fading to black at the very end of scenes! A lot of scenes still felt full because they were so detailed, but I wanted it all haha.
After this, I definitely have Langston’s other novels on my TBR!
As for the narration, I have really liked Justine Eyre in a few novels (Vivienne Lorret's come to mind) but I didn't like her in this book. I'm not sure what was going on but I thought she sounded really raspy and gravelly. Will M Watt however is a new favorite! I will absolutely be seeking out more books with his narration because his voice is super swoony.
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
July 2, 2023
4.5/5.
What a debut! Erin Langston is 2023's Sophie Irwin and that is no mean feat. This book had it all - humour, heart and a touch of heat.
Newly widowed Cora is in a spot of trouble. Instead of celebrating her freedom from a loveless marriage to a indifferent and largely absent husband, she has to prepare herself for the biggest fight of her life - to gain full custody and guardianship of her children. Fortified with legal advice from her brother and the encouragement of her best friend, Tabby, she reluctantly enlists the assistance of Tabby's scapegrace brother, Nathaniel Travers, heir to the Earl of Fordham.
Nate owes Cora a mighty big favour after she saved his sorry and undeserving hide 5 years earlier, before she became Lady Dane. She has changed a lot, got married, became a mother of two. She has had the innocent blush of youth wiped off by her years of marital misery and has subsequently learnt to stand on her own two feet. Nate in the meantime has changed very little - still without a care in the world, living only for the moment and many of these moments involve struggling to stand unsupported on his own two imbibed feet.
“I suppose you have been moderately busy this spring, what with losing your shirt at the card table and whatnot.”
“Now, now…” Travers’s gray eyes gleamed. “No need to be jealous you missed out.”
“Jealous? Of what?” Cora glared, her blood boiling. She reflexively tapped her spoon against the side of her tasse à glace, the staccato matching her own racing pulse.
“Of your uncanny ability to make a fool of yourself? Of your having to beg your brother for pin money? Of the gore oozing over your face? Congratulations, Mr. Travers. You have remained frozen in time for five years.”
Cora is desperate indeed if Nate is the only person standing between her and defeat - losing her children to her husband's cold, unscrupulous relatives. She proposes a pretend betrothal for a few weeks to allow her solicitor brother enough time to explore legal avenues to help her overcome her husband's reach beyond the grave. For the archaic laws in those days gave more heed to the wishes of a dead and uninvolved father than that of a living and loving mother.
This deal offered by Cora is crazy and risky and betting on crazy and risky deals were what got him into strife in the first place.
Nate is a gambler and a risk taker, but to tie himself to a woman and her two children is beyond even his craziest antics. However, he does owe Cora a boon and besides that, the monetary carrot Cora is dangling in front of him is too tempting to turn down. And then there's Cora herself...
Nate was still staring at Cora. Her slim shoulders rounded forward. For the first time, Nate appreciated how slight she was. Cora normally vibrated like a tuning fork, stirring up the air around her until she seemed to take up an inordinate amount of space. But right now, she was small. Nate didn’t like it.
It is inevitable that these two combustible people will create sparks when forced to work together for a common purpose. Cora's life is full of her children and she thought it enough. However, spending time with Nate reminds Cora of her younger optimistic self who was still hopeful of finding love, spine-tingling passion and marital bliss.
“I wish… I didn’t remember wanting a different sort of life,” she finished quietly.
Nate in the meantime wasted no time connecting with Cora's two little live-wired rugrats. His redemption from irresponsible reprobate to protective family man was gradual and convincing as he fell for the kids and then for Cora. He had always been attracted to her, but finally stops long enough to discover the woman behind the mesmerising two-toned eyes.
Nate and the kids - their easy and tender connection made my heart flutter. He had an instinctual attentiveness and care for these two little creatures not of his blood, but who threw themselves at him with such gusto and charm that he stood no chance. These children in fact were the emotional core of the book. They wrung tears from me through their ability to elicit strong emotions from both Nate and Cora. They provided the reason why Cora loved so fiercely, why she was so tunnel-visioned and intense in her determination to overcome her husband's will. Their presence softened her character which otherwise was prickly and humourless at the start. She had at some stage sacrificed her own happiness to ensure theirs.
When I became a mother, I made a vow: I’d give you, I’d give your brother, a life of more. But how can I? How can I impart the only essential lesson, when I have resigned myself to a life of less?
I understand her desperation, her clawing to retain control under circumstances that were increasingly threatening to spiral out of control. Nate was the perfect anti-dote to Cora's tautness.
It had become an entirely new game between them; Cora spun herself into a tizzy, and Nate spun her right out of it. It was almost as if she needed him. It was almost as if he liked it.
His ability to bring laughter and good humour to any situation brought much needed levity to Cora's life. And a healthy dose of masculinity.
How could a man come to look this way? How was it even possible?
“I box,” Nate said helpfully.
Cora was mortified, unsure of what she had actually said aloud.
Once Nate fell, he fell hard and fast for both mother and children. The author did a marvelous job of portraying his growing affection for this trio.
And then he would sit at his writing desk, spinning his quill over her required fake letters, not for lack of inspiration, but because he feared saying too much.
He raised her fingers, gently kissing each knuckle. Her mouth coveted every kiss that landed on her hand.
“Not another word.” His voice was low and urgent. “I’ll let you do anything you want to me, Cora. But I won’t permit you to regret me.”
Nate was shifting; no longer did he feel his ragged edges. He merely felt a bit… unfinished. And for once, it didn’t feel like a flaw. Rather, it seemed as though it was supposed to be this way. That all this time, he’d been waiting for her to finish him.
At the end of the day, I’m a poor match, love. I have nothing to offer you. At least not yet. I don’t have the faintest idea what I’m doing, and I fear my paucity will become the greatest sum between us. But when you smile at me, your eyes hooded and heavy in the first light of day, it’s gold in my pockets, gold in my hands, gold in my unformed heart. Gold, gold, gold, Cora. I’ll gather your smiles, and they’ll make us rich.
If you asked me for the goddamned sun, I would make your life a perpetual July.
My only gripe with Nate was his petulant ingratitude towards his older brother, the current Earl of Fordham, who rightly was disappointed in his conduct when Nate had done nothing to earn his brother’s trust and respect.
This book is a most impressive introduction to Erin Langston's highly capable writing abilities. I am certainly looking forward to exploring more from her in the future.
Nate flinched in disgust. It was wrong—even as he understood it was an unassailable fact—that men like Dane held every card. The mother entitled to no power? He had witnessed a mother’s power every day this month. Cora and her children shared a bond far deeper than ink on a page. She had nurtured them, sustained them, loved them. What power could be greater than that?
What a debut! Erin Langston is 2023's Sophie Irwin and that is no mean feat. This book had it all - humour, heart and a touch of heat.
Newly widowed Cora is in a spot of trouble. Instead of celebrating her freedom from a loveless marriage to a indifferent and largely absent husband, she has to prepare herself for the biggest fight of her life - to gain full custody and guardianship of her children. Fortified with legal advice from her brother and the encouragement of her best friend, Tabby, she reluctantly enlists the assistance of Tabby's scapegrace brother, Nathaniel Travers, heir to the Earl of Fordham.
Nate owes Cora a mighty big favour after she saved his sorry and undeserving hide 5 years earlier, before she became Lady Dane. She has changed a lot, got married, became a mother of two. She has had the innocent blush of youth wiped off by her years of marital misery and has subsequently learnt to stand on her own two feet. Nate in the meantime has changed very little - still without a care in the world, living only for the moment and many of these moments involve struggling to stand unsupported on his own two imbibed feet.
“I suppose you have been moderately busy this spring, what with losing your shirt at the card table and whatnot.”
“Now, now…” Travers’s gray eyes gleamed. “No need to be jealous you missed out.”
“Jealous? Of what?” Cora glared, her blood boiling. She reflexively tapped her spoon against the side of her tasse à glace, the staccato matching her own racing pulse.
“Of your uncanny ability to make a fool of yourself? Of your having to beg your brother for pin money? Of the gore oozing over your face? Congratulations, Mr. Travers. You have remained frozen in time for five years.”
Cora is desperate indeed if Nate is the only person standing between her and defeat - losing her children to her husband's cold, unscrupulous relatives. She proposes a pretend betrothal for a few weeks to allow her solicitor brother enough time to explore legal avenues to help her overcome her husband's reach beyond the grave. For the archaic laws in those days gave more heed to the wishes of a dead and uninvolved father than that of a living and loving mother.
This deal offered by Cora is crazy and risky and betting on crazy and risky deals were what got him into strife in the first place.
Nate is a gambler and a risk taker, but to tie himself to a woman and her two children is beyond even his craziest antics. However, he does owe Cora a boon and besides that, the monetary carrot Cora is dangling in front of him is too tempting to turn down. And then there's Cora herself...
Nate was still staring at Cora. Her slim shoulders rounded forward. For the first time, Nate appreciated how slight she was. Cora normally vibrated like a tuning fork, stirring up the air around her until she seemed to take up an inordinate amount of space. But right now, she was small. Nate didn’t like it.
It is inevitable that these two combustible people will create sparks when forced to work together for a common purpose. Cora's life is full of her children and she thought it enough. However, spending time with Nate reminds Cora of her younger optimistic self who was still hopeful of finding love, spine-tingling passion and marital bliss.
“I wish… I didn’t remember wanting a different sort of life,” she finished quietly.
Nate in the meantime wasted no time connecting with Cora's two little live-wired rugrats. His redemption from irresponsible reprobate to protective family man was gradual and convincing as he fell for the kids and then for Cora. He had always been attracted to her, but finally stops long enough to discover the woman behind the mesmerising two-toned eyes.
Nate and the kids - their easy and tender connection made my heart flutter. He had an instinctual attentiveness and care for these two little creatures not of his blood, but who threw themselves at him with such gusto and charm that he stood no chance. These children in fact were the emotional core of the book. They wrung tears from me through their ability to elicit strong emotions from both Nate and Cora. They provided the reason why Cora loved so fiercely, why she was so tunnel-visioned and intense in her determination to overcome her husband's will. Their presence softened her character which otherwise was prickly and humourless at the start. She had at some stage sacrificed her own happiness to ensure theirs.
When I became a mother, I made a vow: I’d give you, I’d give your brother, a life of more. But how can I? How can I impart the only essential lesson, when I have resigned myself to a life of less?
I understand her desperation, her clawing to retain control under circumstances that were increasingly threatening to spiral out of control. Nate was the perfect anti-dote to Cora's tautness.
It had become an entirely new game between them; Cora spun herself into a tizzy, and Nate spun her right out of it. It was almost as if she needed him. It was almost as if he liked it.
His ability to bring laughter and good humour to any situation brought much needed levity to Cora's life. And a healthy dose of masculinity.
How could a man come to look this way? How was it even possible?
“I box,” Nate said helpfully.
Cora was mortified, unsure of what she had actually said aloud.
Once Nate fell, he fell hard and fast for both mother and children. The author did a marvelous job of portraying his growing affection for this trio.
And then he would sit at his writing desk, spinning his quill over her required fake letters, not for lack of inspiration, but because he feared saying too much.
He raised her fingers, gently kissing each knuckle. Her mouth coveted every kiss that landed on her hand.
“Not another word.” His voice was low and urgent. “I’ll let you do anything you want to me, Cora. But I won’t permit you to regret me.”
Nate was shifting; no longer did he feel his ragged edges. He merely felt a bit… unfinished. And for once, it didn’t feel like a flaw. Rather, it seemed as though it was supposed to be this way. That all this time, he’d been waiting for her to finish him.
At the end of the day, I’m a poor match, love. I have nothing to offer you. At least not yet. I don’t have the faintest idea what I’m doing, and I fear my paucity will become the greatest sum between us. But when you smile at me, your eyes hooded and heavy in the first light of day, it’s gold in my pockets, gold in my hands, gold in my unformed heart. Gold, gold, gold, Cora. I’ll gather your smiles, and they’ll make us rich.
If you asked me for the goddamned sun, I would make your life a perpetual July.
My only gripe with Nate was his petulant ingratitude towards his older brother, the current Earl of Fordham, who rightly was disappointed in his conduct when Nate had done nothing to earn his brother’s trust and respect.
This book is a most impressive introduction to Erin Langston's highly capable writing abilities. I am certainly looking forward to exploring more from her in the future.
Nate flinched in disgust. It was wrong—even as he understood it was an unassailable fact—that men like Dane held every card. The mother entitled to no power? He had witnessed a mother’s power every day this month. Cora and her children shared a bond far deeper than ink on a page. She had nurtured them, sustained them, loved them. What power could be greater than that?
April 19, 2023
With her lovely debut novel, Forever Your Rogue, Erin Langston proves herself to be a writer to watch. The book showcases endearing protagonists, and features a love story that leaves a lingering and satisfying emotional impact. It is a shining example of historical romance that hits all the right notes.
The author introduces us to Cora Harrington, a newly-widowed mother who faces the heartbreaking possibility of losing her children to her late husband’s brother-in-law. To prevent this from happening, Cora enlists the help of Nate, her best friend’s brother, to enter into a fake betrothal. At first, Nate is hesitant due to his reputation as a philanderer and an unsteady person. However, he soon finds himself inexplicably drawn to Cora and her children, and a deep connection forms between them.
Erin Langston expertly captures the raw and complex emotions of her characters in Forever Your Rogue. Cora’s fierce love for her children and her unwavering strength in the face of adversity is nothing short of inspiring. Meanwhile, Nate’s journey from a notorious scoundrel to a doting father-figure is a true work of art. As the novel progresses, we discover that Nate is not merely the frivolous rake everyone thinks he is. He is a man attempting to find his place in the world. With Cora and her children, he finds a new purpose and a chance to prove himself. It’s impossible not to root for Nate’s redemption as he develops a profound connection with the children and shows that he is more than his reputation. Langston’s portrayal of their tender moments is heartwarming, and their interactions are nothing short of swoon-worthy.
Cora and Nate’s simmering relationship is one of the highlights of Forever Your Rogue. They have undeniable chemistry, and their interactions are layered with witty banter and occasional disagreements. Nate’s emotional journey as he falls deeply in love with Cora is devastating, as he wrestles with feelings of inadequacy. He embodies the pining hero, and his longing and yearning for Cora are unparalleled. The novel’s epistolary component adds an extra layer of romantic allure. Nate’s tender and passionate letters to Cora took my breath away. And the intimate, tender, and scorching sex scenes further intensify the novel’s already strong romance.
While overall, the book is engaging and well-written, some parts of it could have been trimmed down. Specifically, the book overemphasizes the custody issues, and condensing them wouldn’t lessen their impact on the story. Nevertheless, historical romance enthusiasts should not miss out on Forever Your Rogue by Erin Langston. Langston is evidently a talented writer and I eagerly await her next book.
Shelved as 'dnf'
November 15, 2023Dnf 29% in. I wanted to like this book so much.
I tried and kept on reading even though the dialogue is awful but if in 1/3 of the book I don’t feel any chemistry I can’t continue.
Cora talks to Nate so patronizingly while she is trying to to be funny but it only comes of as awkward and rude.
Sigh 😔
I tried and kept on reading even though the dialogue is awful but if in 1/3 of the book I don’t feel any chemistry I can’t continue.
Cora talks to Nate so patronizingly while she is trying to to be funny but it only comes of as awkward and rude.
Sigh 😔
November 29, 2023
3.5 stars. I had heard such amazing things for Forever Your Rogue, so when the audio dropped for it, I jumped in! This is a historical romance with a widowed, single mom heroine and has a fake betrothal setup with the hero. While this one didn’t blow me away, I did like it.
Cora gave up her dreams of a happily ever after a long time ago, but one thing she’s not willing to give up is her children. Newly widowed, Cora finds out that her (awful) late husband left the guardianship of their children to his family. Therefore, at any time they can take her children away if they see fit…and they’re turning out to be just as problematic as her late husband was with their treats of this. With the chance of losing her children becoming more real, Cora goes to Nate for help. Cora had helped out Nate a while back and he owes her a favor, so she’s calling in the debt. And it comes at the perfect time, because Nate—a carefree, charismatic rogue—just got cut off. Cora ends up asking him to marry her…or pretend to be engaged to her that is!
I expected a lot from this one as I had only heard rave reviews about it. And it just didn’t knock my socks off completely. I think it’s solid for sure, but it definitely felt repetitive and too long. I wasn’t ever sold on any of the characters really, but I didn’t mind them. Now I will say the clips of the love letters he’s crafting to her were soo good (would have loved more of that), the audio narration with Justine Eyre was so good too, and the epilogue was amazing!
Cora gave up her dreams of a happily ever after a long time ago, but one thing she’s not willing to give up is her children. Newly widowed, Cora finds out that her (awful) late husband left the guardianship of their children to his family. Therefore, at any time they can take her children away if they see fit…and they’re turning out to be just as problematic as her late husband was with their treats of this. With the chance of losing her children becoming more real, Cora goes to Nate for help. Cora had helped out Nate a while back and he owes her a favor, so she’s calling in the debt. And it comes at the perfect time, because Nate—a carefree, charismatic rogue—just got cut off. Cora ends up asking him to marry her…or pretend to be engaged to her that is!
I expected a lot from this one as I had only heard rave reviews about it. And it just didn’t knock my socks off completely. I think it’s solid for sure, but it definitely felt repetitive and too long. I wasn’t ever sold on any of the characters really, but I didn’t mind them. Now I will say the clips of the love letters he’s crafting to her were soo good (would have loved more of that), the audio narration with Justine Eyre was so good too, and the epilogue was amazing!
December 12, 2023
I feel like my heart is just laid bare gulping for air! Who the heck is Erin Langston and why am I JUST finding out about her a few months ago. She writes as though she’s a seasoned professional, at it for years! I had a visceral reaction to certain parts of this book that made me glad I was by myself when listening to this amazing audio btw narrated by Justine Eyre & Will M. Watt. Chefs kiss performances.😘
Step Daddy Nate could get it 7 damn days a week. That man was pure fire that I felt deep in my belly. Nate & Cora together? Pure deliciousness. The chemistry, the banter, the development of their story and characters..some of the best I’ve read in a while. I love a reformed bad boy. Seeing Nate’s growth on page was savory. I’m telling you, this book was delicious. I have several dirty parts highlighted and I may or may not have relistened to a few parts 2-3x. Who’s counting anyway?
The part when Nate was appreciating and observing Cora’s body as a mother, while she was sleeping really did it for me. The descriptions that he found so beautiful that we as women tend to hide. Priceless.
Step Daddy Nate could get it 7 damn days a week. That man was pure fire that I felt deep in my belly. Nate & Cora together? Pure deliciousness. The chemistry, the banter, the development of their story and characters..some of the best I’ve read in a while. I love a reformed bad boy. Seeing Nate’s growth on page was savory. I’m telling you, this book was delicious. I have several dirty parts highlighted and I may or may not have relistened to a few parts 2-3x. Who’s counting anyway?
The part when Nate was appreciating and observing Cora’s body as a mother, while she was sleeping really did it for me. The descriptions that he found so beautiful that we as women tend to hide. Priceless.
June 27, 2023
What can we say about Forever Your Rogue that hasn't been said already? This is possibly the sweetest tale of a roguish hero learning that responsibility might be the best thing to happen to him ever written. In Laine's storied words, "If you’re into rake redemption for real (not just voluntary monogamy) you should read this."
We would also add that you should read this if you're into:
*Opposites attract
*Single mom
*Fake relationship
*Epistolary elements
*Inheritance shenanigans
*Cute kids
*Way more steam than you might expect from the whole above description
21-Word Summaries:
Laine: Is this the most believable reformation I've ever read? Cora's got problems, but Nate's got solutions (or at least pleasant distractions).
Meg: When you need a man to pretend to be your fiance, it’s good to have choices. Unfortunately, Cora’s got … Nate.
Look we loved it it was great just read it.
We would also add that you should read this if you're into:
*Opposites attract
*Single mom
*Fake relationship
*Epistolary elements
*Inheritance shenanigans
*Cute kids
*Way more steam than you might expect from the whole above description
21-Word Summaries:
Laine: Is this the most believable reformation I've ever read? Cora's got problems, but Nate's got solutions (or at least pleasant distractions).
Meg: When you need a man to pretend to be your fiance, it’s good to have choices. Unfortunately, Cora’s got … Nate.
Look we loved it it was great just read it.
August 17, 2023
What a wonderful historical romance from Erin Langston. I really enjoyed Nate and Cora’s story. Single mother to two lovely children and how Nate the rogue slowly but surely fell in love with Cora, Leo and Tess.
The fake relationship trope was so good and those letters Nate had to write. Muah! Loved it. Their chemistry was spot on and I liked that they had history.
Cora was a fabulous heroine. Strong and determined. Nate taught her a few other things as well. Wink wink. The sex was beautifully written but it was the love that shined. Cora’s love for her children, Nate and Cora’s love for each other and let’s not forget Nate’s love for Tess and Leo.
This debut from Erin Langston was so well written. I’m excited to read more from her.
The fake relationship trope was so good and those letters Nate had to write. Muah! Loved it. Their chemistry was spot on and I liked that they had history.
Cora was a fabulous heroine. Strong and determined. Nate taught her a few other things as well. Wink wink. The sex was beautifully written but it was the love that shined. Cora’s love for her children, Nate and Cora’s love for each other and let’s not forget Nate’s love for Tess and Leo.
This debut from Erin Langston was so well written. I’m excited to read more from her.
November 23, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
Thankfully, a new author whose book lives up to the hype! I greatly enjoyed this debut full-length novel, especially from one in today's lackluster historical romance genre. Langston's first book is so Romantic with a lovely depiction of two people falling in love, much to their surprise. I liked the gimmicky plot that brings them together as a fake betrothed couple trying to outsmart a pair of hideous villains. Nate and Cora come together reluctantly to thwart a repulsive husband and wife intent on using the oppressive legal system to deny Cora her rights to her children. The research is solid here on the inequalities inherent in the laws of coverture that define married women as property rather than a separate person. When Cora's smarmy aristocrat husband dies early in the book, she is left in a precarious position as a mother to young children and susceptible to victimization from those who want to exploit her. She desperately needs male protection from someone with enough social standing to pass muster, but without the morals or ethics that would impede a successful subterfuge - enter her youthful acquaintance, Nate, who is truly perfect in this role, and he has the benefit of getting paid well for a short stint as one half of a faux-enamored pairing.
Of course, we know that Nate is going to be redeemed from a reckless womanizer into a worthy partner to Cora, but watching his transformation unfold is just so entertaining. His transformation is all show and no tell. Most novels rely solely on the charms of the heroine to reform a rake, but this book goes all in with Cora and two utterly charming children. I'm not hugely into children in romances, as they are too often depicted unrealistically, but this book has children who steal the show. I appreciate too that this book is long and leisurely and takes its time developing these crucial relationships. Nate is not anti-child at the start of the book, mostly because Cora is right in characterizing him as a bit of a big kid himself, but he is not sentimental about children and he is definitely not harboring fantasies of being a father. His character development therefore is just about the best thing I've read this year. When he confesses falling in love with Cora while also falling in love with her children, there isn't any doubt that the author pulls this off.
I do think Cora is a little less interesting as a character, and I'm not sure if that is because Nate and the children are enthralling. But I did find her to be less developed. I'm a heroine-centric reader, and so there is a slight deduction for me for this reason. I also wasn't a huge fan of the epilogue and wish it had not been included. The final chapter of this book is perfect. The epilogue takes us decades into the future and reveals character fates that I did not actually want to know.
Those are all fairly small quibbles in an otherwise totally delightful romance. Extra applause for Nate's bungling attempts to write love letters as part of his contract as a smitten suitor. The letters start off laughingly bad but become these wonderful little gems, illuminating the man he is becoming and the love he feels for his new family. Highly recommend!!
Thankfully, a new author whose book lives up to the hype! I greatly enjoyed this debut full-length novel, especially from one in today's lackluster historical romance genre. Langston's first book is so Romantic with a lovely depiction of two people falling in love, much to their surprise. I liked the gimmicky plot that brings them together as a fake betrothed couple trying to outsmart a pair of hideous villains. Nate and Cora come together reluctantly to thwart a repulsive husband and wife intent on using the oppressive legal system to deny Cora her rights to her children. The research is solid here on the inequalities inherent in the laws of coverture that define married women as property rather than a separate person. When Cora's smarmy aristocrat husband dies early in the book, she is left in a precarious position as a mother to young children and susceptible to victimization from those who want to exploit her. She desperately needs male protection from someone with enough social standing to pass muster, but without the morals or ethics that would impede a successful subterfuge - enter her youthful acquaintance, Nate, who is truly perfect in this role, and he has the benefit of getting paid well for a short stint as one half of a faux-enamored pairing.
Of course, we know that Nate is going to be redeemed from a reckless womanizer into a worthy partner to Cora, but watching his transformation unfold is just so entertaining. His transformation is all show and no tell. Most novels rely solely on the charms of the heroine to reform a rake, but this book goes all in with Cora and two utterly charming children. I'm not hugely into children in romances, as they are too often depicted unrealistically, but this book has children who steal the show. I appreciate too that this book is long and leisurely and takes its time developing these crucial relationships. Nate is not anti-child at the start of the book, mostly because Cora is right in characterizing him as a bit of a big kid himself, but he is not sentimental about children and he is definitely not harboring fantasies of being a father. His character development therefore is just about the best thing I've read this year. When he confesses falling in love with Cora while also falling in love with her children, there isn't any doubt that the author pulls this off.
I do think Cora is a little less interesting as a character, and I'm not sure if that is because Nate and the children are enthralling. But I did find her to be less developed. I'm a heroine-centric reader, and so there is a slight deduction for me for this reason. I also wasn't a huge fan of the epilogue and wish it had not been included. The final chapter of this book is perfect. The epilogue takes us decades into the future and reveals character fates that I did not actually want to know.
Those are all fairly small quibbles in an otherwise totally delightful romance. Extra applause for Nate's bungling attempts to write love letters as part of his contract as a smitten suitor. The letters start off laughingly bad but become these wonderful little gems, illuminating the man he is becoming and the love he feels for his new family. Highly recommend!!
June 8, 2023
Edit#3: HOLD THE PRESS!
I’m changing my rating!!! 4.5 rounded up.
I read the bonus epilogue and I’m just gonna pretend like the events of the OG epilogue didn’t happen but I’ll remember they are still together after many years.
. . . . . .
Original review
Pls don’t come for my 4 star rating . 🙈
. . .
As someone who loves to read slice of life, low angst, fluffier stories I always feel the need to explain that my reviews are all about my personal tastes in regards to the story and not reflective of the writing itself but in this case, the writing contributed heavily in my rating.
I LOVED this book, the writing is amazing, this is one of the best historicals I’ve ever read, it was so beautifully written, especially Nate’s love letters, srsly it was amazing. 🥰
But I’m no longer the target audience for these stories. I loved Nate, I really did, it’s just that I have this awful aversion to rakes and my heart hurt for Cora when his past was thrown in her face, even tho she already knew how he was, being in her POV was very heart-tugging. I needed him to reassure her more that things with her were different, and he did reassure her but his defenses had also gone up because he was hurt that she was acting like she didn’t know him. And by the end of the scene she realized she did know him and that was that. But I wanted to be soothed! 😭
This story has beautifully complex characters showing immense growth.
But I’m uncultured and needed so much more concrete reassurance that they were in it together. I was really hoping that along their declarations of love there would’ve been a conversation of the fake betrothed turning into a real betrothed, that they were a real unit. Honestly I don’t think Cora allowed herself to truly love Nate until she found the love letters.
. . . .
My heart needed more love. It felt like it was all coming from Nate and I needed more time of the love flowing equally from both sides after the dust settled.
I loved every scene that had Nate with Leo and Tess and especially the parts were he was thinking of the kids as his own but when it comes to the end of the story I felt cheated.
Because I am the queen of complaining that I’m not getting enough of a HEA.
Here’s why I feel cheated: The plot with getting ownership rights to the children was great, I loved how it all played out but when it comes to the romance- no. All the times where we were in Nate’s POV and he thought about how the kids should’ve been his, everything he missed because they weren’t his- I thought it was a perfect set up for scenes that could’ve been at the end of the story, there was such a big time skip instead of showing us glimpses of their new life progressing over time. I would’ve loved to see their wedding day and Nate’s POV during the birth of his own child or finding out they were having more kids! Did they stop being careful or were they purposely trying to extend the family? Snippets of Cora’s POV watching her new family happy and growing up with the love of a good father. Tessa’s first time referring to Nate as papa? I needed some of these scenes to make everything come full circle. 😭
Apparently the bonus epilogue on the author’s website fixes some of my complaints
Also casually tossing a character death in the super long time skip? Not cool
I’m feeling a little drained after reading this story and there is a very real possibility that my thoughts are all over the place and this review will probably reflect that.
I’m changing my rating!!! 4.5 rounded up.
I read the bonus epilogue and I’m just gonna pretend like the events of the OG epilogue didn’t happen but I’ll remember they are still together after many years.
. . . . . .
Original review
Pls don’t come for my 4 star rating . 🙈
. . .
As someone who loves to read slice of life, low angst, fluffier stories I always feel the need to explain that my reviews are all about my personal tastes in regards to the story and not reflective of the writing itself but in this case, the writing contributed heavily in my rating.
I LOVED this book, the writing is amazing, this is one of the best historicals I’ve ever read, it was so beautifully written, especially Nate’s love letters, srsly it was amazing. 🥰
But I’m no longer the target audience for these stories. I loved Nate, I really did, it’s just that I have this awful aversion to rakes and my heart hurt for Cora when his past was thrown in her face, even tho she already knew how he was, being in her POV was very heart-tugging. I needed him to reassure her more that things with her were different, and he did reassure her but his defenses had also gone up because he was hurt that she was acting like she didn’t know him. And by the end of the scene she realized she did know him and that was that. But I wanted to be soothed! 😭
This story has beautifully complex characters showing immense growth.
But I’m uncultured and needed so much more concrete reassurance that they were in it together. I was really hoping that along their declarations of love there would’ve been a conversation of the fake betrothed turning into a real betrothed, that they were a real unit. Honestly I don’t think Cora allowed herself to truly love Nate until she found the love letters.
. . . .
My heart needed more love. It felt like it was all coming from Nate and I needed more time of the love flowing equally from both sides after the dust settled.
I loved every scene that had Nate with Leo and Tess and especially the parts were he was thinking of the kids as his own but when it comes to the end of the story I felt cheated.
Because I am the queen of complaining that I’m not getting enough of a HEA.
Apparently the bonus epilogue on the author’s website fixes some of my complaints
Also casually tossing a character death in the super long time skip? Not cool
I’m feeling a little drained after reading this story and there is a very real possibility that my thoughts are all over the place and this review will probably reflect that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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