I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Once a Scoundrel (Rogues Redeemed, #3) by Mary Jo Putney Series: Rogues Redeemed #3
Published by Kensington on September 25, 2018
Genres: Historical
Pages: 368
Goodreads
FINAL DECISION: A good story grounded in interesting historical facts, but I thought the characters were too calm and lacked passion that I wanted especially in their relationship.
THE STORY: Gabriel Hawkins was born to be a British Navy man until he makes a decision which leads to his dismissal from the navy and his admiral grandfather disowning him. Gabriel has made a life for himself on the seas when he is asked to help negotiate the release of a British lady who is being held for ransom by a Barbary pirate. Lady Aurora Lawrence is a scandal to her family. She has eschewed marriage to travel with her cousin around the world writing novels. Rory and Gabriel have to undertake a dangerous voyage which might gain Rory her freedom.
OPINION: I liked the heroine who is intelligent and reasoned throughout the story. The hero is honorable and tries to use his intelligence to solve the dilemma in the story. There is a lot of historical information in this book which was interesting and is what kept me reading the story to see what else I could learn.
My problem with this story is that everything is just too civilized. No problem that Rory is constantly threatened to be sold into the slavery of the harem. Rory casually offers her virginity for sale in order to make up the price of her ransom. I didn’t feel the emotion or reality of the situation. The characters just never felt three dimensional but rather as mere pawns moved about the story. Although both main characters have problems and even tragedy in their lives, they don’t seem to have emotional depth in the story. I never got to feel that I knew these characters.
And I was disappointed with that.
WORTH MENTIONING: There is a second romance here as well.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ONCE A SCOUNDREL is the third book in the Rogues Redeemed series. This book is a standalone but there are some overlapping characters from both the Rogues Redeemed series and the Lost Lords series. A new reader won’t miss anything by starting here.
STAR RATING: I give this book 2.5 stars.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley to help prepare this review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.