Lord Rakehell

This author always researches...a must for me.For those new to Ms. Henley's work and who found the early part slow-going, I suggest reading her other books about members of the Hamilton family. Then, the early pages become happy visits with one's old friends while, at the same time, they set up the rest of the story.Historically correct, as usual, and a story beautifully told, also as usual.The very few lapses in dialogue are not typical of this author. Importantly, Ms. Henley's writing is so lovely, her knowledge of the period is perfect and is illustrated in beautiful detail.I've read, and enjoyed, all of Ms. Henley's historical novels. As always, I'm anxiously awaiting her next offering. Another on a par with Enslaved would be great! Seduced is another; and the other books about the Hamiltons, and...It's a delightful story and I heartily recommend it to those readers who enjoy historical romance written by an author who always has her historical facts straight and writes beautifully. She paints a picture...you're *there*.

I am a Henley fan and have read all her books. While this book is a good read, and I would recommend it as such, there are a few things that bother me about it. Maybe I'm just getting older, but this book seems so distasteful in it's morals and double standards. The romantic hero, James, arrogantly and casually introduces the Prince of Wales to a decadent and useless lifestyle, directly against his upbringing and the wishes of his parents, who James is a subject of. Stupid and risky, and Why? As if sex with every diseased prostitute will cure him of whatever ails him? Already the romantic lead is a shallow fool. I could go on about how no one in the novel is faithful to anyone, and the only people who are (the king and queen) are mocked, as if being faithful to a mate makes you a cold, crazy person. Nice touch, Henley. The story in general, the flow and scenes, are true to Henley's interesting, colorful style. She is a true storyteller, and her characters are fun to read about. It's too bad the main characters aren't more of a decent, likeable group.

I enjoy all of Virginia Henley's books as they are a nice departure from the more serious histories I read but still have enough historical fact to make me run to the computer to check names and places. There is an escapism that helps to get through the murder, mayhem and disfunction of our everyday world. Highly recommend.

It was a good story with a lot of talking about the prince teddy and James relationship and I realize that not all stories can have the people fall for each other in the first 20 pages but when the characters don't even really meet till page 200 (not saying that's the page but that's what it feels like) and then the story (even if based on a real story) could give something to hook the reader but I lost interest and kept reading hoping for something anything to get me addicted to it like her other books but nope didn't happen...hope others enjoy the book but it's not on my list to read again..

Lord Rakehell was good, but didn't like all of the negativity that existed. A person can only shield a person for so long and then the lies need to stop.

I dislike English royalty. It offends my Yankee blood. Moreover, I am not a female who adores fashionable clothes, carriages and lovers who must please society as well as themselves. However, as a historian and a critic I heartily recommend this book, especially for those who enjoy romance and royalty.

If you enjoy Virginia Henley you will love this book. If you have never read a time piece by Ms. Henley then please give it a try. The lead characters draw you in. The way Henley writes your imagination can truly visualize the atmosphere and environment. I completely enjoyed this novel.

Awesome book