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The Rake Patrol #1
The Casanova Code
"A refined gentleman, age 25, of wealth and education, seeks the acquaintance, with a view to matrimony, of a high-minded, kind-hearted lady who prefers an evening of quiet conversation to the lively demands of society."
Edwina Hargrove knows that this "gentleman" was, in fact, Ashton Trewelyn, a rake notorious for seducing the young and naive. In fact, five decent women have already been tricked and bundled off to the continent for scandalous purposes. There was a way to thwart his scheme, though—by shadowing this devilishly handsome Casanova and warning his prey. If only it were that simple.
Wounded and weary, Ashton Trewelyn returns home to London from the King's Royal Rifles, but soon discovers a coded message that has implications to the Crown and his family. His only hope to unravel the mystery lies in the enigmatic Edwina's ability to recognize patterns. Even as he leads her on a path of secret societies and risqué temptations, he discovers she arouses his jaded soul with temptations of her own. Must they risk everything to decipher Casanova's code?
Edwina Hargrove knows that this "gentleman" was, in fact, Ashton Trewelyn, a rake notorious for seducing the young and naive. In fact, five decent women have already been tricked and bundled off to the continent for scandalous purposes. There was a way to thwart his scheme, though—by shadowing this devilishly handsome Casanova and warning his prey. If only it were that simple.
Wounded and weary, Ashton Trewelyn returns home to London from the King's Royal Rifles, but soon discovers a coded message that has implications to the Crown and his family. His only hope to unravel the mystery lies in the enigmatic Edwina's ability to recognize patterns. Even as he leads her on a path of secret societies and risqué temptations, he discovers she arouses his jaded soul with temptations of her own. Must they risk everything to decipher Casanova's code?
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
13 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Donna MacMeans
27 books89 followersAn award winner author, Donna MacMeans writes witty and seductive historical romance set in the Victorian era.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 14, 2012
The code word is SEXY!
Edwina Hargrove is a very modern woman (for the Victorian era!) She rides bicycles (scandalous!) and longs for independence and adventure, but the closest she ever comes is using her uncanny code-breaking skills to decipher letters from her brothers and to decipher coded messages in the personal ads in the newspapers. Until the day she decodes a message from one of the ton’s most notorious rakes, advertising for a good woman to draw into his debauchery. Edwina, along with her friends, form The Rake Patrol to put paid to this cad’s intentions by diverting women away from the disreputable Ashton Trewelyn. Then it’s Edwina herself who falls into his hands. And oh, what sexy, sensuous, compelling hands they are!
Ms. MacMeans has a wonderful knack for getting her characters into every sort of madcap adventure (and out of their petticoats and drawers) on the way to a tear-inducing happily ever after, and does so with delicious details and terrific humor. With lively discussions (and demonstrations!) of Japanese erotica, and the possibly nefarious activities of a secret society to be uncovered, the only question is, can a lively code-breaker crack the secrets of a wounded hero’s heart? All I will say is, oh my! And oh, YUM! And I can hardly wait for book two of the Rake Patrol’s adventures!
Edwina Hargrove is a very modern woman (for the Victorian era!) She rides bicycles (scandalous!) and longs for independence and adventure, but the closest she ever comes is using her uncanny code-breaking skills to decipher letters from her brothers and to decipher coded messages in the personal ads in the newspapers. Until the day she decodes a message from one of the ton’s most notorious rakes, advertising for a good woman to draw into his debauchery. Edwina, along with her friends, form The Rake Patrol to put paid to this cad’s intentions by diverting women away from the disreputable Ashton Trewelyn. Then it’s Edwina herself who falls into his hands. And oh, what sexy, sensuous, compelling hands they are!
Ms. MacMeans has a wonderful knack for getting her characters into every sort of madcap adventure (and out of their petticoats and drawers) on the way to a tear-inducing happily ever after, and does so with delicious details and terrific humor. With lively discussions (and demonstrations!) of Japanese erotica, and the possibly nefarious activities of a secret society to be uncovered, the only question is, can a lively code-breaker crack the secrets of a wounded hero’s heart? All I will say is, oh my! And oh, YUM! And I can hardly wait for book two of the Rake Patrol’s adventures!
April 17, 2013
The first book in The Rake Patrol series. Edwina Hargrove sees an ad advertising for a wife but she knows its really a ruse to attract decent women and bundle them off for scandalous purposes. She also sees patterns and codes in the advertisements. Anyway she and her fellow Rake Patrol are determine to stop Ashton Trewelyn from his dastardly deeds.
A fun, witty, little romp in the world of codes and secrets. Not a lot of action, may have lagged slightly at times but, overall, I found it enjoyable.
A fun, witty, little romp in the world of codes and secrets. Not a lot of action, may have lagged slightly at times but, overall, I found it enjoyable.
June 1, 2012
A Refined Seduction
THE CASANOVA CODE by Donna MacMeans is a delightful romance between a reformed rake and a blue stocking. I loved the whole concept of the The Rake Patrol formed by the heroine and her three friends to stop "gentlemen" from seducing and ruining young women.
When Edwina Hargrove comes face-to-face with her first rake she learns he's not what she expected and finds herself falling under his spell.. Her modern ways and unusual pastimes - riding a bicycle and deciphering coded messages set her apart from other women, make
her less desirable in the matrimonial market. Though resigned to marry her father's clerk, after meeting Casanova she finds herself longing for what she knows she can never have.
Ashton Trewelyn comes home from war a changed man, both in body and in spirit. Though he no longer wishes to waste his life in a meaningless pursuit of physical pleasure, he has no idea of how to banish his Casanova reputation and gain the respect of the world and
his father. That is until Edwina bursts into his life and turns it upside down. Together they find a coded message that might just have political implications. Her skill with ciphers and codes helps them discover the truth, but can deciphering THE CASANOVA CODE win them their heart's desire?"
THE CASANOVA CODE by Donna MacMeans is a delightful romance between a reformed rake and a blue stocking. I loved the whole concept of the The Rake Patrol formed by the heroine and her three friends to stop "gentlemen" from seducing and ruining young women.
When Edwina Hargrove comes face-to-face with her first rake she learns he's not what she expected and finds herself falling under his spell.. Her modern ways and unusual pastimes - riding a bicycle and deciphering coded messages set her apart from other women, make
her less desirable in the matrimonial market. Though resigned to marry her father's clerk, after meeting Casanova she finds herself longing for what she knows she can never have.
Ashton Trewelyn comes home from war a changed man, both in body and in spirit. Though he no longer wishes to waste his life in a meaningless pursuit of physical pleasure, he has no idea of how to banish his Casanova reputation and gain the respect of the world and
his father. That is until Edwina bursts into his life and turns it upside down. Together they find a coded message that might just have political implications. Her skill with ciphers and codes helps them discover the truth, but can deciphering THE CASANOVA CODE win them their heart's desire?"
June 2, 2012
An emotionally satisfying story that lingers in your mind when you shut the book--readers looking for a well written story with an innovative plot should open The Casanova Code and fall into it.
A young lady with a gift for cracking codes finds her skills have more use than playing games with family or decoding titillating messages in the personal columns. A war hero finds that a reputation built up in his younger days lingers in society like a bad odor hindering any chance he has of a more meaningful life. Add family secrets, political intrigue, and some scandalous Japanese prints and you have a recipe for an enjoyable afternoon read on your deck or at the beach.
MacMeans’ characters, modern women living in an era when riding a bicycle constituted a defiant act of independence, promise us more enjoyable romps in her Rake Patrol series.
A young lady with a gift for cracking codes finds her skills have more use than playing games with family or decoding titillating messages in the personal columns. A war hero finds that a reputation built up in his younger days lingers in society like a bad odor hindering any chance he has of a more meaningful life. Add family secrets, political intrigue, and some scandalous Japanese prints and you have a recipe for an enjoyable afternoon read on your deck or at the beach.
MacMeans’ characters, modern women living in an era when riding a bicycle constituted a defiant act of independence, promise us more enjoyable romps in her Rake Patrol series.
June 17, 2012
I received a copy of this book from the Goodreads First Reads Program.
I'm not a huge fan of romance books but I enjoyed this book regardless of that, Edwina's skill in cryptography was an interesting plot point (I'm quite interested in cryptography myself but sadly I lack Edwina's talent for it!).
I liked that Edwina was not a typical romance heroine, her insistence on being a modern woman was refreshing given that women in romance books are notoriously subservient.
Ashton was also an interesting character and not the cardboard cut-out I expected!
The quality of writing was high, the plot was compelling and there was plenty of character development. Overall this was a solid book and I would recommend it to any fans of the genre (and possibly a few people who aren't!)
I'm not a huge fan of romance books but I enjoyed this book regardless of that, Edwina's skill in cryptography was an interesting plot point (I'm quite interested in cryptography myself but sadly I lack Edwina's talent for it!).
I liked that Edwina was not a typical romance heroine, her insistence on being a modern woman was refreshing given that women in romance books are notoriously subservient.
Ashton was also an interesting character and not the cardboard cut-out I expected!
The quality of writing was high, the plot was compelling and there was plenty of character development. Overall this was a solid book and I would recommend it to any fans of the genre (and possibly a few people who aren't!)
July 1, 2012
Loved this book not put downable from start to finish it had me Ashton and Edwinda are so good for each other. So well written the story flows and all the characters add so much to it can't wait for the next one.
May 13, 2018
Dit boek is in het Nederlands vertaald verschenen : Casanova in het spel - Candlelight Historische roman 1112 .
Leuk verhaal met de pittige Edwina Hargrove in de hoofdrol . Dit verhaal speelt zich wat later in de geschiedenis af dan ik gewend ben : Edwina verplaatst zich door Londen per fiets - zo'n modern ding met 2 even grote wielen en er rijden al treinen en er is zelfs sprake van een uitvinding genaamd automobiel .
Er is sprake van 4 vriendinnen die de schurkenbrigade vormen en je zou dus verwachten dat er nog 3 boeken volgen maar helaas had de schrijfster kennelijk na deel 2 ( niet in het Ned. vertaald verschenen ) geen inspiratie meer . Best wel jammer eigenlijk want deze serie had best veel potentie door de 4 zo totaal verschillende vrouwen .
Leuk verhaal met de pittige Edwina Hargrove in de hoofdrol . Dit verhaal speelt zich wat later in de geschiedenis af dan ik gewend ben : Edwina verplaatst zich door Londen per fiets - zo'n modern ding met 2 even grote wielen en er rijden al treinen en er is zelfs sprake van een uitvinding genaamd automobiel .
Er is sprake van 4 vriendinnen die de schurkenbrigade vormen en je zou dus verwachten dat er nog 3 boeken volgen maar helaas had de schrijfster kennelijk na deel 2 ( niet in het Ned. vertaald verschenen ) geen inspiratie meer . Best wel jammer eigenlijk want deze serie had best veel potentie door de 4 zo totaal verschillende vrouwen .
June 20, 2012
A witty, passionate historical romance that will capture your heart! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Edwina is not like the other females of her time period. She rides a book and spends her time decoding messages. Whenever she and her brothers exchange correspondence, they write their messages in code, using their favorite book, Treasure Island. She also watches the local newspaper for ads written in code and tries to read the message behind these ads. One such ad, appearing to be a message from a wife to her husband, is actually a note from a wife to her paramour, warning him that the coast is not clear. After seeing a personal ad that she is certain is from reprobate Ashton Trewellyn, who is known for seducing the naïve and innocent, she and three of her friends decide to follow him and warn his prey. Thus the four friends form the Rake’s Patrol. During her two unsuccessful Seasons, she had been intrigued by Ashton, but she knew she did not have the allure to interest him. After all, her interests have proven to be detrimental to success in the matrimonial market.
Ashton Trewelyn has come home from the King’s Royal Rifles tired and wounded. Although his past has given him a reputation that has him dubbed Casanova, it is his father who has a hidden room filled with erotic art and is involved with a group called the Guardians. Hoping to help his wounded, but deserving, friend, Ashton posts an ad in the local newspaper, hoping to find him a nice woman, but he has not thought out all of the consequences.
Following Ashton around on a bike is just not working, so when Ashton appears at the newspaper office to pick up replies to his ad, Edwina’s journalist friend, Sarah, who is also a member of the Rake Patrol, convinces him to set up his meetings at the Crescent Coffee Palace and have the applicant bear a single rose. Staking out the coffeehouse, Edwina manages to stop a woman, Miss Grimwood, from going through with the interview. But when the woman drops her rose and walks out just before Ashton walks in, he surmises that Edwina is Miss Grimwood.
Edwina begins to believe she has made a mistake about Ashton, but she is even more certain after she and her friends stake out his home after a subsequent message contains a code stating that a meeting is being held there. Managing to get into his home, she enters the darkened library to find him already there. While he makes sure the coast is clear, she finds a note left by the Guardians. She gives it to Ashton and offers her help in decoding the note, which is in code. Ashton finds her fascinating, but he is also determined to get behind the truth about the Guardians, wondering what his father is involved in. Her ability to recognize patterns is his only hope in unraveling the mystery. But as they are led along a path of wicked temptations and secret societies, they cannot deny their desire for each other. Will they together find their happily ever after, or will their investigations put an end to it?
Deliciously enchanting, THE CASANOVA CODE, the first book in award winning author Donna MacMeans’ RAKE PATROL series, is an enticing historical romance that will capture your attention from the very beginning. Well-known for her seductively witty historical romances, Ms. MacMeans goes above and beyond with this one. Ashton and Edwina is a beautifully matched couple, and their interactions will bring a smile to your face. The secondary characters have an appeal all their own and I look forward to their stories. Brimming with secret societies, coded messages, claustrophobia, danger, passion, intrigue, humor, interesting characters, witty banter, romance and a one-of-a-kind love, this story is a comedy of misunderstandings and misconceptions that will brighten your day. Originally creative and unique, it is a keeper! Ms. MacMeans has been among the authors on my list of ‘must read’ authors since the publication of her first book and my admiration of her work has never faltered. I look forward to her next book in this exciting series! In the meantime, be sure to get your own copy of THE CASANOVA CODE!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Edwina is not like the other females of her time period. She rides a book and spends her time decoding messages. Whenever she and her brothers exchange correspondence, they write their messages in code, using their favorite book, Treasure Island. She also watches the local newspaper for ads written in code and tries to read the message behind these ads. One such ad, appearing to be a message from a wife to her husband, is actually a note from a wife to her paramour, warning him that the coast is not clear. After seeing a personal ad that she is certain is from reprobate Ashton Trewellyn, who is known for seducing the naïve and innocent, she and three of her friends decide to follow him and warn his prey. Thus the four friends form the Rake’s Patrol. During her two unsuccessful Seasons, she had been intrigued by Ashton, but she knew she did not have the allure to interest him. After all, her interests have proven to be detrimental to success in the matrimonial market.
Ashton Trewelyn has come home from the King’s Royal Rifles tired and wounded. Although his past has given him a reputation that has him dubbed Casanova, it is his father who has a hidden room filled with erotic art and is involved with a group called the Guardians. Hoping to help his wounded, but deserving, friend, Ashton posts an ad in the local newspaper, hoping to find him a nice woman, but he has not thought out all of the consequences.
Following Ashton around on a bike is just not working, so when Ashton appears at the newspaper office to pick up replies to his ad, Edwina’s journalist friend, Sarah, who is also a member of the Rake Patrol, convinces him to set up his meetings at the Crescent Coffee Palace and have the applicant bear a single rose. Staking out the coffeehouse, Edwina manages to stop a woman, Miss Grimwood, from going through with the interview. But when the woman drops her rose and walks out just before Ashton walks in, he surmises that Edwina is Miss Grimwood.
Edwina begins to believe she has made a mistake about Ashton, but she is even more certain after she and her friends stake out his home after a subsequent message contains a code stating that a meeting is being held there. Managing to get into his home, she enters the darkened library to find him already there. While he makes sure the coast is clear, she finds a note left by the Guardians. She gives it to Ashton and offers her help in decoding the note, which is in code. Ashton finds her fascinating, but he is also determined to get behind the truth about the Guardians, wondering what his father is involved in. Her ability to recognize patterns is his only hope in unraveling the mystery. But as they are led along a path of wicked temptations and secret societies, they cannot deny their desire for each other. Will they together find their happily ever after, or will their investigations put an end to it?
Deliciously enchanting, THE CASANOVA CODE, the first book in award winning author Donna MacMeans’ RAKE PATROL series, is an enticing historical romance that will capture your attention from the very beginning. Well-known for her seductively witty historical romances, Ms. MacMeans goes above and beyond with this one. Ashton and Edwina is a beautifully matched couple, and their interactions will bring a smile to your face. The secondary characters have an appeal all their own and I look forward to their stories. Brimming with secret societies, coded messages, claustrophobia, danger, passion, intrigue, humor, interesting characters, witty banter, romance and a one-of-a-kind love, this story is a comedy of misunderstandings and misconceptions that will brighten your day. Originally creative and unique, it is a keeper! Ms. MacMeans has been among the authors on my list of ‘must read’ authors since the publication of her first book and my admiration of her work has never faltered. I look forward to her next book in this exciting series! In the meantime, be sure to get your own copy of THE CASANOVA CODE!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
July 15, 2012
Originally posted at: http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.c...
There's the saying a tiger can't change his stripes, but what if he does?
I hadn't taken the time to open a book by Donna MacMeans until I nabbed a copy of The Casanova Code. Let me say here and now, I was so wrong to wait this long. I snickered, cheered, and at times wanted to toss the book across the room. Why? Because I got so wrapped up in the characters! I did. I sat down to read this book planning to take in two, maybe three chapters, then get some other things done. Before I knew it, more than an hour had gone by, along with over half the tale. The writing flowed so well, I was stuck fast in my seat needing to know what would happen next. I felt like I was right there with them and couldn't get enough.
Why would I want to throw the book if I liked it so much? In every great book, this being no exception, there are times when the characters do things that seem... odd. As much as I wasn't sure I'd like Ashton, the hero, I did. I loved how he evolved through the story and grew into his own. That said, there were a few moments when he made choices I didn't agree with. That's a good thing! He kept the story lively. Then there was Edwina. There's a line Ashton's father says, 'whatever happened to good old-fashioned names, like Mary or Rose?' That line really fit. She wasn't an average girl. She kept reminding everyone she was a 'modern woman'. I give her credit - riding the bicycle, free-thinking in a time when women were expected to wed and produce children... she had it all. Yes, there were a couple of times, neither I'll go into detail on as to not ruin the story, where I wanted to shout 'why are you doing that' and yet, I understood. I got great insight into the times they lived in.
There was one detail threaded through the story that gave a new twist on the historical. The Japanese Pillow Books. Again, I won't go into a lot of detail as to not ruin the story, but these books were white hot. A reader not expecting a sexual topic within the story might be taken aback by the theme of sexual object, but be assured, Ms. MacMeans handled the story arc with flair. It's a great addition and I liked it.
If you want a book that will stick with you long after the last page, then this might be the book you're looking for. I recommend it highly.
There's the saying a tiger can't change his stripes, but what if he does?
I hadn't taken the time to open a book by Donna MacMeans until I nabbed a copy of The Casanova Code. Let me say here and now, I was so wrong to wait this long. I snickered, cheered, and at times wanted to toss the book across the room. Why? Because I got so wrapped up in the characters! I did. I sat down to read this book planning to take in two, maybe three chapters, then get some other things done. Before I knew it, more than an hour had gone by, along with over half the tale. The writing flowed so well, I was stuck fast in my seat needing to know what would happen next. I felt like I was right there with them and couldn't get enough.
Why would I want to throw the book if I liked it so much? In every great book, this being no exception, there are times when the characters do things that seem... odd. As much as I wasn't sure I'd like Ashton, the hero, I did. I loved how he evolved through the story and grew into his own. That said, there were a few moments when he made choices I didn't agree with. That's a good thing! He kept the story lively. Then there was Edwina. There's a line Ashton's father says, 'whatever happened to good old-fashioned names, like Mary or Rose?' That line really fit. She wasn't an average girl. She kept reminding everyone she was a 'modern woman'. I give her credit - riding the bicycle, free-thinking in a time when women were expected to wed and produce children... she had it all. Yes, there were a couple of times, neither I'll go into detail on as to not ruin the story, where I wanted to shout 'why are you doing that' and yet, I understood. I got great insight into the times they lived in.
There was one detail threaded through the story that gave a new twist on the historical. The Japanese Pillow Books. Again, I won't go into a lot of detail as to not ruin the story, but these books were white hot. A reader not expecting a sexual topic within the story might be taken aback by the theme of sexual object, but be assured, Ms. MacMeans handled the story arc with flair. It's a great addition and I liked it.
If you want a book that will stick with you long after the last page, then this might be the book you're looking for. I recommend it highly.
February 24, 2017
Nem vagyok maximálisan elégedett a történettel. Edwina belevaló, modern hajadon létére időnként nagyon bután viselkedett. Nem bízott Ashtonben, és hagyta Waltert dirigálni. Az utolsó nyolcvan oldalt teljes sebességgel daráltam le, hogy mi lesz a vége.
June 10, 2012
I received this book in a goodreads first-reads giveaway.
First I wanted to say that I've never really been interested in romance novels but I just couldn't put this book down! I stayed up until 5 AM reading - it was that interesting! Several parts were quite mysterious - I kept trying to figure out who the mystery person was and what the codes could mean.
The characters were likeable. Sometimes the things Edwina did would irritate me. She was always saying how she was a new modern woman but then she'd revert back to some quiet housewife behavior for whatever reason. I hated that a lot. But otherwise I liked how independent she was and it was really cool that she knew how to uncover secret codes. Plus, I loved her name!
Overall I'd say it was a nice quick read. I'd definitely recommend it. I can't wait to read the next one.
First I wanted to say that I've never really been interested in romance novels but I just couldn't put this book down! I stayed up until 5 AM reading - it was that interesting! Several parts were quite mysterious - I kept trying to figure out who the mystery person was and what the codes could mean.
The characters were likeable. Sometimes the things Edwina did would irritate me. She was always saying how she was a new modern woman but then she'd revert back to some quiet housewife behavior for whatever reason. I hated that a lot. But otherwise I liked how independent she was and it was really cool that she knew how to uncover secret codes. Plus, I loved her name!
Overall I'd say it was a nice quick read. I'd definitely recommend it. I can't wait to read the next one.
January 1, 2015
A fun start to a new series by Donna MacMeans. Edwina has always had a head for figuring out puzzles, decoding secret messages, and understanding patterns. A secret code in the newspaper lead her to Casanova, Ashton, but he’s not the man he used to be. Ashton has returned injured from the war and wants to leave his wastrel life behind him. He’s ready to do some good but isn’t sure how to change his life. He finds Edwina intriguing and interesting and beautiful and isn’t quite sure what to do with her. Normally he would seduce and leave but he wants to spend time with Edwina, learn more about her, and possibly spend forever with her. He just needs to convince her that his intentions are true. A really fun start to The Rake Patrol and I’m excited to try more from Ms. MacMeans. Good read!
June 23, 2012
I received this book by winning a GoodReads contest.
This was both a charming and sexy story. I liked the easy-going, humorous narrative, and even though I did not expect to, I fell in love with the characters. I even managed to learn something about Japanese culture and Googled pictures of shunga.
The only thing I didn't really like was the ending. I like sentimentality, but it was a little too saccharine for my tastes.
Thank you to the author for allowing me the chance to enjoy her book. It was great.
This was both a charming and sexy story. I liked the easy-going, humorous narrative, and even though I did not expect to, I fell in love with the characters. I even managed to learn something about Japanese culture and Googled pictures of shunga.
The only thing I didn't really like was the ending. I like sentimentality, but it was a little too saccharine for my tastes.
Thank you to the author for allowing me the chance to enjoy her book. It was great.
May 28, 2012
Excellent page turner! Couldn't put it down. The chemistry between the H/H is believable and builds throughout the novel. I really enjoyed the personal growth and overcoming of obstacles in their own lives that enhanced their own character, they were better together than apart.
Wonderfully written to keep the reader's interest. A must have!
Wonderfully written to keep the reader's interest. A must have!
June 19, 2012
I got this book as a Goodreads First Read and am very glad I did! This book was really hard to put down as soon as I started it! I am looking forward to the rest of the Rake Patrol books!
August 23, 2014
Page turning story I really enjoyed. Great female lead character with a fun group of friends. The romance was exciting with the Asian twist. Excellent book I highly recommend.
May 7, 2023
Sweet, interesting, a perfect blend of romance and figure it out simple mystery!
July 3, 2012
I was hoping when I started this book there would be plenty of action interspersed with the heroine’s ability to read patterns and decode most anything given to her and the romance. Unfortunately, while we get a bit of mystery, even a little bit of action is nearly non-existent and the romance doesn’t truly come alive until the last quarter of the book.
As children Edwina and her brothers made up codes for each other to break. That tradition, so to speak, is still alive and well, and Edwina looks forward to those letters from her brothers still to this day. She’s become quite proficient at deciphering most any code she comes across. To break up the boredom of her days, she scours the local newspaper ads from those people sending coded messages to others. One day she finds an ad from a notorious rake, Casanova, aka Ashton Trewelyn, advertising for a future wife. Just knowing this has to be a scam to lure innocent girls into scandal, Edwina and her friends, dubbing themselves The Rake Patrol, take it upon their moral selves to intercept any women who answer Casanova’s plea and warn them of the impending danger.
Now, really. This is sort of silly. I mean, how do these women know this? Of course, they don’t. They’re surmising. Guessing. Whatever. All because of the man’s reputation. He’s only returned from the war after being injured, his life saved by the man he placed the ad for. Yep. There’s a logical explanation for his ad, but Edwina and Patrol have too much time on their hands. On top of all that, Ash’s attitude has changed since looking death in the eye. He’s no longer the rake he was, wanting to make a good life for himself, and still trying to garner his father’s respect and admiration. So he heads to the local tea shop the nice young lady at the newspaper recommended to him for his interviews of prospective brides. How lucky for him he just met his first Rake Patrol member.
Ash figures out what Edwina is doing and confronts her. There’s some semi-attraction between them, it isn’t the hit-you-in-the-face kind, but you feel it anyway. He’s tired of the type of woman he bedded before, the ones who are still after him now that he’s back. She knows she doesn’t have a chance for a man like Ash, he’s a Casanova anyway, but that doesn’t stop Edwina from liking what she sees. Amid all of this, another ad in code pops up and Edwina thinks she’s really on to something this time. A secret meeting of the Guardians is to be held at the Trewelyn house. Thinking something nefarious is going on and Ashton is involved, the ladies of the Patrol stake out his home, ending with Edwina being caught inside and the rest of the women looking silly when they rush to the front door to rescue her.
Thus begins Edwina’s sexual education when she’s trapped with Ash in his father’s “secret room,” where all of his Japanese sensual artifacts are kept. I know that in her descriptions of these items, along with Edwina’s innocence, Ms. MacMeans is trying to convey their meaning as well as describe to readers all things sexual in a different way we haven’t read before. Doesn’t work. It only makes Edwina look that much sillier and naive. As does her situation when one of the smaller items gets caught up in her umbrella and the way in which she tries to return it, thinking Ash would believe she stole it. It’s the way she goes about it that has him believing she absconded with it in the first place.
The whole Guardian thing is a red herring, for me. It could have led to some interesting adventures, but even when Ash gets involved, it’s only a way to get into his father’s good graces and into the Guardians, which really isn’t all that big of a deal. He’s the one who gets into scrapes and a bit of adventure, leaving Edwina in London to doubt his feelings. This part of the story is actually a huge let-down, even the surprise or two that pops up for Ash. Which really shouldn’t have been a surprise.
It’s when Ash returns home and Edwina finally sees him again, and they get past her very fertile imagination, that the romance truly begins. Too late in my book. There’s just too many things that don’t work, too much silliness going on in the way of presumptions and guesswork that only lead to trouble, not enough of Edwina’s code breaking ability – at least for something worthwhile – and too little romance. I’m rather disappointed because I like the concept behind the book and characters. It’s just not executed well enough for me.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
As children Edwina and her brothers made up codes for each other to break. That tradition, so to speak, is still alive and well, and Edwina looks forward to those letters from her brothers still to this day. She’s become quite proficient at deciphering most any code she comes across. To break up the boredom of her days, she scours the local newspaper ads from those people sending coded messages to others. One day she finds an ad from a notorious rake, Casanova, aka Ashton Trewelyn, advertising for a future wife. Just knowing this has to be a scam to lure innocent girls into scandal, Edwina and her friends, dubbing themselves The Rake Patrol, take it upon their moral selves to intercept any women who answer Casanova’s plea and warn them of the impending danger.
Now, really. This is sort of silly. I mean, how do these women know this? Of course, they don’t. They’re surmising. Guessing. Whatever. All because of the man’s reputation. He’s only returned from the war after being injured, his life saved by the man he placed the ad for. Yep. There’s a logical explanation for his ad, but Edwina and Patrol have too much time on their hands. On top of all that, Ash’s attitude has changed since looking death in the eye. He’s no longer the rake he was, wanting to make a good life for himself, and still trying to garner his father’s respect and admiration. So he heads to the local tea shop the nice young lady at the newspaper recommended to him for his interviews of prospective brides. How lucky for him he just met his first Rake Patrol member.
Ash figures out what Edwina is doing and confronts her. There’s some semi-attraction between them, it isn’t the hit-you-in-the-face kind, but you feel it anyway. He’s tired of the type of woman he bedded before, the ones who are still after him now that he’s back. She knows she doesn’t have a chance for a man like Ash, he’s a Casanova anyway, but that doesn’t stop Edwina from liking what she sees. Amid all of this, another ad in code pops up and Edwina thinks she’s really on to something this time. A secret meeting of the Guardians is to be held at the Trewelyn house. Thinking something nefarious is going on and Ashton is involved, the ladies of the Patrol stake out his home, ending with Edwina being caught inside and the rest of the women looking silly when they rush to the front door to rescue her.
Thus begins Edwina’s sexual education when she’s trapped with Ash in his father’s “secret room,” where all of his Japanese sensual artifacts are kept. I know that in her descriptions of these items, along with Edwina’s innocence, Ms. MacMeans is trying to convey their meaning as well as describe to readers all things sexual in a different way we haven’t read before. Doesn’t work. It only makes Edwina look that much sillier and naive. As does her situation when one of the smaller items gets caught up in her umbrella and the way in which she tries to return it, thinking Ash would believe she stole it. It’s the way she goes about it that has him believing she absconded with it in the first place.
The whole Guardian thing is a red herring, for me. It could have led to some interesting adventures, but even when Ash gets involved, it’s only a way to get into his father’s good graces and into the Guardians, which really isn’t all that big of a deal. He’s the one who gets into scrapes and a bit of adventure, leaving Edwina in London to doubt his feelings. This part of the story is actually a huge let-down, even the surprise or two that pops up for Ash. Which really shouldn’t have been a surprise.
It’s when Ash returns home and Edwina finally sees him again, and they get past her very fertile imagination, that the romance truly begins. Too late in my book. There’s just too many things that don’t work, too much silliness going on in the way of presumptions and guesswork that only lead to trouble, not enough of Edwina’s code breaking ability – at least for something worthwhile – and too little romance. I’m rather disappointed because I like the concept behind the book and characters. It’s just not executed well enough for me.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
July 3, 2012
First off, a big, gigantic THANK YOU to Ms. Donna MacMeans for a signed copy of The Casanova Code and a boat load of swag including book marks, a beautiful peacock feather, and a lavender scented, handwritten card in a wax sealed envelope. The card smells absolutely divine! I opened the package in the kitchen while my family was making lunch and everyone was absolutely awed! And this was all before I even opened the book! Ok, Ok, I'll stop my gushing over the package opening and move on to an actual review!
The Casanova Code starts with Edwina Hargrove, a modern woman who sees patterns in every day things, decoding a letter from her beloved brother. She also enjoys reading through the Messenger's "Personal & Misc" page, where coded messages often appear. While reading through the section, Edwina stumbles upon an advertisement seeking "the acquaintance[...] of a high-minded, kindhearted lady...." The ad looks most romantic until Edwina's friend tells everyone that the ad was actually placed by Ashton Trewelyn, aka Casanova. Edwina and her loyal friends assume that Ashton has placed the ad for nefarious purposes so they form the Rake Patrol to spread the word and keep potential women from falling into Ashton's charming trap. As the ruse continues, Edwina comes to realize that Ashton is not the man he was when he originally earned the title and there is more to the man than his mere charm and good looks. Together, Ashton and Edwina discover a coded letter they must crack, while trying to figure out who the secret group known as the Guardians really are and what their purpose is regarding the Crown.
What I Liked: I enjoyed that Edwina was quirky and wanted to break away from societal rules concerning the proper things women should do. I love that she wanted to ride her bicycle and be her own woman while following her heart.
The jacket of the novel is beautiful and Ashton looks extra, super delicious *wink* Ashton's character was also very lovable. I like the whole 'man can do anything but it takes a push from a good woman' thing to make things happen. It's so romantic ;)
What I Didn't Like: Not a thing! All the characters worked well together and I especially enjoyed all the strong yet varied personalities of Edwina's friends. Very well written, original, and utterly heart fluttering.
I received this novel from Goodreads.com Early Reviewer Giveaway.
The Casanova Code starts with Edwina Hargrove, a modern woman who sees patterns in every day things, decoding a letter from her beloved brother. She also enjoys reading through the Messenger's "Personal & Misc" page, where coded messages often appear. While reading through the section, Edwina stumbles upon an advertisement seeking "the acquaintance[...] of a high-minded, kindhearted lady...." The ad looks most romantic until Edwina's friend tells everyone that the ad was actually placed by Ashton Trewelyn, aka Casanova. Edwina and her loyal friends assume that Ashton has placed the ad for nefarious purposes so they form the Rake Patrol to spread the word and keep potential women from falling into Ashton's charming trap. As the ruse continues, Edwina comes to realize that Ashton is not the man he was when he originally earned the title and there is more to the man than his mere charm and good looks. Together, Ashton and Edwina discover a coded letter they must crack, while trying to figure out who the secret group known as the Guardians really are and what their purpose is regarding the Crown.
What I Liked: I enjoyed that Edwina was quirky and wanted to break away from societal rules concerning the proper things women should do. I love that she wanted to ride her bicycle and be her own woman while following her heart.
The jacket of the novel is beautiful and Ashton looks extra, super delicious *wink* Ashton's character was also very lovable. I like the whole 'man can do anything but it takes a push from a good woman' thing to make things happen. It's so romantic ;)
What I Didn't Like: Not a thing! All the characters worked well together and I especially enjoyed all the strong yet varied personalities of Edwina's friends. Very well written, original, and utterly heart fluttering.
I received this novel from Goodreads.com Early Reviewer Giveaway.
August 17, 2012
And the winner of the red herring award is...
Of course, you know I don't have such an award, but if I did, The Casanova
Code would certainly be one of my nominations. This is my first Donna MacMean book, and it also happens to be the first in a series. A series with the absurd name of The Rake Patrol. Triggers all kinds of childhood memories of watching tv as British soldiers chase German soldiers through
the desert.
Anyway, when I first started to read this book, I thought, hey, this is going to be a good one! It takes place in the late Victorian era and the heroine, Edwina, is a "modern" woman. She rides a bike, for Pete's sake! So, she is a Victorian biker chick. However, this particular biker chick is also a brilliant code breaker. You see, she and her brothers have been communicating through codes since they were little tadpoles. I thought she sounded like fun. But as it turns out, the problem I soon discovered with her was one I had with every character and plotline in this book - neither one of those things went anywhere. It was just like a hamster wheel, run, run, run and never arrive anywhere.
Our hero, Aston, used to be a typical rake, and true to the code of rakehood his father married Aston's almost fiance. So, Aston goes off to fight and gets shot in the leg, then he can have the hero limp and carry a cane.
Then we have the assorted cardboard characters - the three women Rat, I mean Rake Patrol members, the evil step-mother, the nefarious fathers (both), the secret club (Guardians). And let me tell you, there were more jumping to conclusions, over-reactions and silly misunderstandings than stars in the galaxy. I might have exaggerated. But there were tons of them, which is one of the reasons I found this read to be disappointing. I also thought the romance didn't connect until pretty close to the end of the book.
This doesn't mean I'm giving up on this author yet. I will look into her next story and hope for the best.
Of course, you know I don't have such an award, but if I did, The Casanova
Code would certainly be one of my nominations. This is my first Donna MacMean book, and it also happens to be the first in a series. A series with the absurd name of The Rake Patrol. Triggers all kinds of childhood memories of watching tv as British soldiers chase German soldiers through
the desert.
Anyway, when I first started to read this book, I thought, hey, this is going to be a good one! It takes place in the late Victorian era and the heroine, Edwina, is a "modern" woman. She rides a bike, for Pete's sake! So, she is a Victorian biker chick. However, this particular biker chick is also a brilliant code breaker. You see, she and her brothers have been communicating through codes since they were little tadpoles. I thought she sounded like fun. But as it turns out, the problem I soon discovered with her was one I had with every character and plotline in this book - neither one of those things went anywhere. It was just like a hamster wheel, run, run, run and never arrive anywhere.
Our hero, Aston, used to be a typical rake, and true to the code of rakehood his father married Aston's almost fiance. So, Aston goes off to fight and gets shot in the leg, then he can have the hero limp and carry a cane.
Then we have the assorted cardboard characters - the three women Rat, I mean Rake Patrol members, the evil step-mother, the nefarious fathers (both), the secret club (Guardians). And let me tell you, there were more jumping to conclusions, over-reactions and silly misunderstandings than stars in the galaxy. I might have exaggerated. But there were tons of them, which is one of the reasons I found this read to be disappointing. I also thought the romance didn't connect until pretty close to the end of the book.
This doesn't mean I'm giving up on this author yet. I will look into her next story and hope for the best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2013
Reviewed for TwoLips Reviews, LLC
4 Kisses, 1 Pepper - M/F, oral sex
Ashton Carswell Trewelyn the Third places a personal ad for a friend in the Mayfair Messenger where Edwina Hargrove's friend Sarah works. Sarah says he's no gentleman; he's a rake who debauches decent women. She says the rumor is he's Casanova. She and her friends decide that any women who respond to his ad should be warned, and the Rake Patrol is formed. When Edwina decodes an encrypted message that says there will be a meeting of The Guardians at Ashton's house, the girls decide to have a stakeout so they can rescue any unsuspecting innocents who might unwittingly be ensnared and debauched by Ashton and his fellow rakes.
Edwina knows she shouldn't be feeling attracted to Ashton, but she is. It doesn't help that she gets trapped with him in a hidden room where his father keeps his collection of erotic Japanese prints (shunga). When they discover a coded message that might have serious implications not only for Ashton’s family but also possibly for the Crown, Edwina’s natural code-breaking ability comes in handy and brings the two together.
Edwina was an interesting character. She rides a bicycle (very unconventional for a woman in that era), longs for adventure, and isn’t repulsed by the erotic images she sees in Ashton’s father’s collection. Ashton is also a great character. He has returned home from serving in the King’s Royal Rifles weary and changed. He’s no longer interested in the rakish activities he used to pursue, but he can’t figure out how to change his reputation. It’s such a part of his image that even Edwina doesn’t feel she can fully trust his intentions toward her.
There’s a lot to like about The Casanova Code by Donna MacMeans. It’s well written and smart, and I think it’s an excellent start to what promises to be a really good historical romance series.
4 Kisses, 1 Pepper - M/F, oral sex
Ashton Carswell Trewelyn the Third places a personal ad for a friend in the Mayfair Messenger where Edwina Hargrove's friend Sarah works. Sarah says he's no gentleman; he's a rake who debauches decent women. She says the rumor is he's Casanova. She and her friends decide that any women who respond to his ad should be warned, and the Rake Patrol is formed. When Edwina decodes an encrypted message that says there will be a meeting of The Guardians at Ashton's house, the girls decide to have a stakeout so they can rescue any unsuspecting innocents who might unwittingly be ensnared and debauched by Ashton and his fellow rakes.
Edwina knows she shouldn't be feeling attracted to Ashton, but she is. It doesn't help that she gets trapped with him in a hidden room where his father keeps his collection of erotic Japanese prints (shunga). When they discover a coded message that might have serious implications not only for Ashton’s family but also possibly for the Crown, Edwina’s natural code-breaking ability comes in handy and brings the two together.
Edwina was an interesting character. She rides a bicycle (very unconventional for a woman in that era), longs for adventure, and isn’t repulsed by the erotic images she sees in Ashton’s father’s collection. Ashton is also a great character. He has returned home from serving in the King’s Royal Rifles weary and changed. He’s no longer interested in the rakish activities he used to pursue, but he can’t figure out how to change his reputation. It’s such a part of his image that even Edwina doesn’t feel she can fully trust his intentions toward her.
There’s a lot to like about The Casanova Code by Donna MacMeans. It’s well written and smart, and I think it’s an excellent start to what promises to be a really good historical romance series.
January 31, 2015
Good, strong story. I liked both characters especially the heroine, Edwina. She's a pretty but not beautiful young woman who has an instinct for patterns whether in movement, numbers, or landscape. She has been raised with older brothers with whom she tried to keep up so she is not a dainty lady, inside or out. She is refreshing. Her hero has a reputation he'd love to shed. Previously known as Casanova, Ashton has been in battle and his experience and a wounded leg have changed him. The story starts out with his advertisement in a paper for a friend who has suffered significant wounds. Unfortunately, the friend does not make an appearance even though he is referred to a couple of times as being responsible for saving Ashton's life. He sounded interesting.
Edwina and her friends think Casanova is up to his old reputation of ruining gently raised women and are determined to thwart his plan.
There is a mystery to be solved, a suitor for Edwina as a complication, and a step-mother who was previously courted by Ashton but married his father. The story flows at a good pace and stays interesting as all the pieces fall into place. I was disappointed, though, after so much was said by Ashton himself and Edwina in defense of Ashton, that he was not the seducer of the past, he showed no restraint in his behavior toward Edwina. Granted she did not resist but she was an innocent and he seduced her before declaring his feelings and intentions so I didn't find him to be all that honorable no matter how much Edwina protested otherwise.
Edwina and her friends think Casanova is up to his old reputation of ruining gently raised women and are determined to thwart his plan.
There is a mystery to be solved, a suitor for Edwina as a complication, and a step-mother who was previously courted by Ashton but married his father. The story flows at a good pace and stays interesting as all the pieces fall into place. I was disappointed, though, after so much was said by Ashton himself and Edwina in defense of Ashton, that he was not the seducer of the past, he showed no restraint in his behavior toward Edwina. Granted she did not resist but she was an innocent and he seduced her before declaring his feelings and intentions so I didn't find him to be all that honorable no matter how much Edwina protested otherwise.
August 29, 2012
This is a story of Edwina Hargrove who as a young child her, and her brother would write in code to each other. She loved deciphering his letter of his adventures when he would write to her. Edwina was bored with her life, Edwina and her friends had formed a group called “The Rake Patrol”. It’s main reason was to inform young maidens that rakes take advantage of them and take their innocence, and if they become pregnant they send them to America so no one knows their reputations are ruined. Edwina is reading the paper and she sees an ad asking for a young woman to meet a man. Her and her friends decide to save the young woman. This is how Edwina meets the renowned rake Ashton Trewelyn. It tells of there adventures with the guardians and how they wind up working together and how her feeling for him become different.
I enjoyed this book very much, as I do all Donna MacMeans books. I liked the characters and the way they work together. It is a book that was worth reading and I can’t wait for the “Rake Patrol” to continue.
I enjoyed this book very much, as I do all Donna MacMeans books. I liked the characters and the way they work together. It is a book that was worth reading and I can’t wait for the “Rake Patrol” to continue.
July 22, 2012
I am not a fan of romance novels, and I honestly picked this one up looking for a change of pace along the lines of the super trashy. This book is not trashy. There's a little scandal, some semi-racy scenes, but overall its pretty well behaved. There's I think two kisses, and one sex scene in the whole book.
A man seeking a female companion for a friend ends up finding a love of his own in a most unlikely place through unlikely circumstances and mistaken identity. The cat changes his spots.
The storytelling is decent and the book is a very easy read- I finished it in a few hours. Bu the ending was a bit of a disappointment for me. Edwina is an unconventional and independent woman for the times. She stands up for herself. She rides a bicycles. She dreams of travel and adventure. We expect great things form her. But by the end of the book, finding herself pregnant and in love, she's ready too throw it all away just for that man to marry her. Her personality change in the end really is disappointing, but if you can get past that, its not a bad romance novel.
A man seeking a female companion for a friend ends up finding a love of his own in a most unlikely place through unlikely circumstances and mistaken identity. The cat changes his spots.
The storytelling is decent and the book is a very easy read- I finished it in a few hours. Bu the ending was a bit of a disappointment for me. Edwina is an unconventional and independent woman for the times. She stands up for herself. She rides a bicycles. She dreams of travel and adventure. We expect great things form her. But by the end of the book, finding herself pregnant and in love, she's ready too throw it all away just for that man to marry her. Her personality change in the end really is disappointing, but if you can get past that, its not a bad romance novel.
January 18, 2015
Ashton Trewelyn returned home a changed man. He's not going to waste his life. He's reformed. Edwina Hargrove and her friends have formed the Rake Patrol to stop men like Ashton from seducing unsuspecting women. Now he finds that he needs Edwina. This bluestocking is skilled with codes. Can the reformed rake and this "modern" woman find a future? This is an entertaining and solid story that is filled with romance and a dash of mystery. The characters are compelling and the dialogue is sharp and witty. Edwina is a feisty and intelligent woman. Ashton wants her. The attraction and desire between these two is amazing. They are working to solve the cypher and to learn more about the Guardians. This is a wonderful romance. I was hooked from the first page. Edwina is a compelling character that I wanted to know more about. I'm looking forward to more stories of the Rake Patrol.
August 3, 2012
This is a story of Edwina Hargrove who would write to her brother, and him to her, in code. She loved to look for codes to break. She formed a group called "The Rake Patrol". The groups main object is to find rakes who are trying to use woman and when they become with child, get sent to the Americas. This is the way Edwina meets Ashton Trewelyn renowned rake. This story is very entertaining and the characters are likeable and I can't wait to read the next "Rake Patrol" book. Having met and chatted with Donna, I can say the book is as enjoyeable as the woman who wrote it.
August 18, 2016
I read this because in a few days, I am going to meet the author. I thought it would be a good thing to be familiar with her work. I've never read an historical romance before; I enjoyed this one. MacMeans is a good writer and pays attention to many details. Plus I loved her heroine. Edwina is well-defined, sticks to her morals, intelligent, and spunky. And unlike many of the other books I've read with romantic leanings, Edwina's love interest, seemed a worthy choice. Of course, being a romance, the ending is predictable.
December 20, 2012
I really wanted to like this book, couldn't wait for it to come from Amazon. I read a lot of historical fiction, but I really didn't like this one. The language was clunky and uncomfortable, the love scenes were creepy, and if someone mentioned the hero's "jade stalk" or the heroine's "heavenly gate" one more time I was going to scream. Unfortunately, this book is the reason people make fun of romance novels.
October 23, 2012
Edwina is a smart, modern woman. She rides a bike, solves codes and will do anything to help others! Ashton wants to help his friend find a wife, so he places an add in the paper. Edwina and her friends foil what they think are his plans to use another young women.
This book was smart, funny and filled with intrigue. I enjoyed it very much!
This book was smart, funny and filled with intrigue. I enjoyed it very much!
March 14, 2016
Review coming soon to a computer screen near you. This romance did make the EXCLUSIVE FRURR's MY 2016 MUST READS & Mizz Donna using the most unique FAIRY GODTHINGIE I have encountered, a newspaper called "Mayfair Messenger" to get her hero & heroine together. I get to read Book #2, THE WHISKY LAIRD'S BED, next.
P.S. A proud SHOUTOUT to my ROCKING RC Public Library for the BEOTCHING read!!
P.S. A proud SHOUTOUT to my ROCKING RC Public Library for the BEOTCHING read!!
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