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The Wildes of Lindow Castle #6
Wilde Child
Eloisa James returns to the Wildes of Lindow Castle series with the next Wilde child who runs and joins a theatre troupe -- and the duke who tries to save her reputation.
He wants a prim and proper duchess, not the Wildest of the Wildes!
Already notorious for the golden hair that proves her mother’s infidelity, Lady Joan can’t seem to avoid scandals, but her latest escapade may finally ruin her: she’s determined to perform the title role of a prince—in breeches, naturally.
She has the perfect model for an aristocratic male in mind: Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick, a man who scorned the very idea of marrying her.
Not that Joan would want such a dubious honor, of course.
For years, Thaddeus has avoided the one Wilde who shakes his composure, but he’s horrified when he grasps the danger Joan’s putting herself in. Staring into her defiant eyes, he makes the grim vow that he’ll keep her safe.
He strikes a bargain: after one performance, the lady must return to her father’s castle and marry one of three gentlemen whom he deems acceptable.
Not including him, of course.
He wants a prim and proper duchess, not the Wildest of the Wildes!
Already notorious for the golden hair that proves her mother’s infidelity, Lady Joan can’t seem to avoid scandals, but her latest escapade may finally ruin her: she’s determined to perform the title role of a prince—in breeches, naturally.
She has the perfect model for an aristocratic male in mind: Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick, a man who scorned the very idea of marrying her.
Not that Joan would want such a dubious honor, of course.
For years, Thaddeus has avoided the one Wilde who shakes his composure, but he’s horrified when he grasps the danger Joan’s putting herself in. Staring into her defiant eyes, he makes the grim vow that he’ll keep her safe.
He strikes a bargain: after one performance, the lady must return to her father’s castle and marry one of three gentlemen whom he deems acceptable.
Not including him, of course.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published March 30, 2021
588 people are currently reading
2,944 people want to read
About the author
Eloisa James
140books9,356followersNew York Times bestselling author Eloisa James writes historical romances for HarperCollins Publishers. Her novels have been published to great acclaim. A reviewer from USA Today wrote of Eloisa's very first book that she "found herself devouring the book like a dieter with a Hershey bar"; later People Magazine raved that "romance writing does not get much better than this." Her novels have repeatedly received starred reviews from Publishers' Weekly and Library Journal and regularly appear on the best-seller lists.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
December 3, 2021
Eloisa James is really a hit or miss author for me. I'll either love her books or fell so-so about them. This one I couldn't care less about. The characters were boring, the plot was boring, and the romance seemed to come out of nowhere. Most of the conflict was that Joan is obviously a child born out of infidelity and at the present time she really wants to act as a man in a play. Thaddeus offers to help her with this. Thaddeus is dealign with his father claiming he was already married before marrying Thaddeus's mother, so he wants his other son to inherit the dukedom over Thaddeus. It sounded interesting enough in the synopsis, but not a whole lot actually happens in this plot. I was pretty bored throughout the whole story and just wanted to finish so that I could read a different book.
January 7, 2021
ARC provide by Edelweiss and Avon/Harper in exchange for an honest review.
Eloisa James books are overall an enjoyable read for me. I'm rarely disappointed and found her to be consistent.
But in this instance I found this to more average or a little below. And the main issue was the heroine.I just didn't find her that likable. It could me more me then the character, possibly.
Lady Joan's mother was known to society as a scandalous second wife to Duke of Lindow (she had an affair with a Prussian and ran away with him). Joan is very well aware of the gossip and she does look a lot like her father. But Lady Joan lives her life as she pleases, happy and flirty and a little scandalous as well. But she only goes so far or as much as her family allows. Joan has always desired a stage life and her family has indulged her by allowing little performances within the family. But Lady Joan decides to join a traveling theater troupe and play a role in which she gets to wear breaches.
The future Duke of Eversly, Thaddeus, Viscount Greywick is looking for a wife that is proper and correct. He's living in the shadows of his father very unconventional and scandalous life. He's worked very hard and being proper and living an upstanding life. Thaddeus has courted two Wilde sister who ending marrying someone else. Lady Joan is nothin like her sister and Thaddus is extremely worried about her flirty and gregarious ways. But then he hears about her new endeavor of joining a traveling theater and is shocked.
Thaddeus and Joans relationship has always had an underlining tension or awareness. They work hard at avoiding each other, but find it somewhat difficult and Thaddeus is a long time friend of the family. But when Thaddeus hears about her latest endeavor he decides he needs to step in and save her reputations.
And this is where the story gets interesting. Thaddeus accompanies Joan on her journey with the theater performances to be her protector but in exchange she needs to agree to marry who he chooses.
This was a wonderful character development for Thaddeus but felt that Joan's fell flat for some reason. I just didn't see her growth or appeal throughout their journey to love. Thaddeus was a gem and I really appreciated his contribution to the relationship, but again Joan just fell short.
Writing overall was good as well as pacing. But issue was the development and storyline of the heroine, Joan.
Eloisa James books are overall an enjoyable read for me. I'm rarely disappointed and found her to be consistent.
But in this instance I found this to more average or a little below. And the main issue was the heroine.I just didn't find her that likable. It could me more me then the character, possibly.
Lady Joan's mother was known to society as a scandalous second wife to Duke of Lindow (she had an affair with a Prussian and ran away with him). Joan is very well aware of the gossip and she does look a lot like her father. But Lady Joan lives her life as she pleases, happy and flirty and a little scandalous as well. But she only goes so far or as much as her family allows. Joan has always desired a stage life and her family has indulged her by allowing little performances within the family. But Lady Joan decides to join a traveling theater troupe and play a role in which she gets to wear breaches.
The future Duke of Eversly, Thaddeus, Viscount Greywick is looking for a wife that is proper and correct. He's living in the shadows of his father very unconventional and scandalous life. He's worked very hard and being proper and living an upstanding life. Thaddeus has courted two Wilde sister who ending marrying someone else. Lady Joan is nothin like her sister and Thaddus is extremely worried about her flirty and gregarious ways. But then he hears about her new endeavor of joining a traveling theater and is shocked.
Thaddeus and Joans relationship has always had an underlining tension or awareness. They work hard at avoiding each other, but find it somewhat difficult and Thaddeus is a long time friend of the family. But when Thaddeus hears about her latest endeavor he decides he needs to step in and save her reputations.
And this is where the story gets interesting. Thaddeus accompanies Joan on her journey with the theater performances to be her protector but in exchange she needs to agree to marry who he chooses.
This was a wonderful character development for Thaddeus but felt that Joan's fell flat for some reason. I just didn't see her growth or appeal throughout their journey to love. Thaddeus was a gem and I really appreciated his contribution to the relationship, but again Joan just fell short.
Writing overall was good as well as pacing. But issue was the development and storyline of the heroine, Joan.
October 19, 2022
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡�
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from )
Should I read in order?
Ideally, yes! This one is okayyyyy as a stand alone but you’ll meet both characters in previous books and the whole family dynamic really flows together throughout the series. (These are a lot more stand alone than her Desperate Duchess series, but flow similarly to Lisa Kleypas� Ravenels)
Basic plot:
Thaddeus has pursued Joan’s sisters in the past, searching for the perfect duchess � which is definitely not her. Known as the family bastard, informally of course, she’s a walking scandal. But they keep getting thrown together...
Give this a try if you want:
- Bargain (small aspect) � Thaddeus will help Joan perform if she lets him help find a husband
- Outgoing actress heroine/quiet duke hero
- Children as a part of the story (family members)
- Georgian time period (1784)
- Tons of focus on the couple
- Medium steam � 3 full scenes and plenty of kisses
My thoughts:
There was so much I really loved about this book. I had so many parts I had to quote that just felt so romantic to me (see below). I usually really enjoy books that focus a lot on the couple and they spend tons of time together and this is what I had here.
Thaddeus, I just loved him. I didn’t really have an opinion on him in prior books � he seemed quiet and very calm and staid. I wondered what was underneath when I found out he would have his own story. And I loved how his still waters ran deep. He feels deep feelings and Joan just makes them all come out. He’s protective, sweet, playful when he comes out of his shell and I just fell utterly in love with him.
Joan is outgoing and unafraid of society’s opinion. Everyone knows shes a bastard, informally of course, since her ‘father�, the Duke of Lindow claims her wholeheartedly. Desiring to be an actress, she’s practicing for Hamlet and ends up roping Thaddeus into her antics.
I listened to the audiobook of this one. Susan Duerden is not my favorite narrator but I must admit I just love her male voices. She’s a touch low and raspy and I just adore it. (I could pass on her general narration and her females voices are just okay to me). I tend to be a bit more forgiving on audiobooks in my ratings too.
This one didn’t quite have the gut wrenching angst I love, or the smoking sexual tension I crave...and some parts did drag for me. But as I listened to my bookmarked spots and took down my notes I just found myself loving some of the lines so so much, and quoting Thaddeus� swoon worthy words I just had to move it to 5 stars. I just adore him. I would totally have fallen in love with him too, were I joan.
So for the series, Say Yes to the Duke, Wilde Child, and My Last Duchess are my faves. I could pass by North’s story (Too Wilde to Wed) (again, second chance just isn’t my thing!) and would consider rereading the others again someday.
A few other notes:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes � this was from audio and might be off a touch from other formats
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡�
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from )
Should I read in order?
Ideally, yes! This one is okayyyyy as a stand alone but you’ll meet both characters in previous books and the whole family dynamic really flows together throughout the series. (These are a lot more stand alone than her Desperate Duchess series, but flow similarly to Lisa Kleypas� Ravenels)
Basic plot:
Thaddeus has pursued Joan’s sisters in the past, searching for the perfect duchess � which is definitely not her. Known as the family bastard, informally of course, she’s a walking scandal. But they keep getting thrown together...
Give this a try if you want:
- Bargain (small aspect) � Thaddeus will help Joan perform if she lets him help find a husband
- Outgoing actress heroine/quiet duke hero
- Children as a part of the story (family members)
- Georgian time period (1784)
- Tons of focus on the couple
- Medium steam � 3 full scenes and plenty of kisses
My thoughts:
There was so much I really loved about this book. I had so many parts I had to quote that just felt so romantic to me (see below). I usually really enjoy books that focus a lot on the couple and they spend tons of time together and this is what I had here.
Thaddeus, I just loved him. I didn’t really have an opinion on him in prior books � he seemed quiet and very calm and staid. I wondered what was underneath when I found out he would have his own story. And I loved how his still waters ran deep. He feels deep feelings and Joan just makes them all come out. He’s protective, sweet, playful when he comes out of his shell and I just fell utterly in love with him.
Joan is outgoing and unafraid of society’s opinion. Everyone knows shes a bastard, informally of course, since her ‘father�, the Duke of Lindow claims her wholeheartedly. Desiring to be an actress, she’s practicing for Hamlet and ends up roping Thaddeus into her antics.
I listened to the audiobook of this one. Susan Duerden is not my favorite narrator but I must admit I just love her male voices. She’s a touch low and raspy and I just adore it. (I could pass on her general narration and her females voices are just okay to me). I tend to be a bit more forgiving on audiobooks in my ratings too.
This one didn’t quite have the gut wrenching angst I love, or the smoking sexual tension I crave...and some parts did drag for me. But as I listened to my bookmarked spots and took down my notes I just found myself loving some of the lines so so much, and quoting Thaddeus� swoon worthy words I just had to move it to 5 stars. I just adore him. I would totally have fallen in love with him too, were I joan.
So for the series, Say Yes to the Duke, Wilde Child, and My Last Duchess are my faves. I could pass by North’s story (Too Wilde to Wed) (again, second chance just isn’t my thing!) and would consider rereading the others again someday.
A few other notes:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes � this was from audio and might be off a touch from other formats
April 7, 2021
This was GREAT, probably my favorite Eloisa James! It was FUNNY, which usually isn't a thing I associate with James!
I'm just so pleased the hero got a book because he wasn't a BAD guy in his previous appearances, just not right!
This was also really hot and just--it WORKED.
I'm just so pleased the hero got a book because he wasn't a BAD guy in his previous appearances, just not right!
This was also really hot and just--it WORKED.
April 19, 2022
My re-read about Joan has me revisiting my rating from 4 to 5 stars. Joan is a shining Wilde star! (18/4/22)
I love Lady Joan. She’s always been a star. As far as I’m concerned any story involving the Wilde menagerie is a winner. This may not be my absolute fav. addition but I still adore these well loved characters and their interconnected loyalty and care for each other. The true Thaddeus is slowly revealed and that is precious too.
Once more my library came through. I love that I can request NG declines. (30/3/21)
I love Lady Joan. She’s always been a star. As far as I’m concerned any story involving the Wilde menagerie is a winner. This may not be my absolute fav. addition but I still adore these well loved characters and their interconnected loyalty and care for each other. The true Thaddeus is slowly revealed and that is precious too.
Once more my library came through. I love that I can request NG declines. (30/3/21)
March 30, 2021
Title: Wilde ChildSeries: The Wildes of Lindlow Castle #7
Author: Eloisa James
Release date: March 30, 2021
Cliffhanger: no
Genre: historical romance
This had a little bit of a slow start for me and some warming up to the stuffy hero, but Eloisa James brought the charm and fun once again in the latest Wilde installment. This series has been absolutely delightful to read! The Wildes will take up residence in your heart and you'll never want them to leave. Each member, from the Duke and Duchess, to the littlest Wilde hold a unique quality to set them apart and make them special. This installment stars Lady Joan as the heroine and I've been very much looking forward to her story.
Lady Joan has always intrigued me because she is something of a black sheep due to her mother's scandalous infidelity. While the Duke of Lindow raised her and considers her his daughter in every sense that matters, her appearance makes it clear that she was conceived out of the marriage bed. Rather than hide away in shame at her obvious illegitimacy, she boldly lives her life to the fullest with a total lack of embarrassment. In fact, she sees her circumstances as an excuse to dispose of the strictures of being a lady. If she's to constantly be reminded that she isn't one, she's going to enjoy the freedom of the low expectations of others. No highborn lord would have her, so marriage has never really been a focus or concern. She flits through balls and dazzles any man of her choosing with her beauty for the fun of it. She audaciously kisses lords in full view of everyone in order to force a proposal of marriage-so she can refuse him. In other words, she's a rule breaker with no concern for her reputation. It was almost unheard of for a gentlewoman of that time to live free of worry about their reputation, and she recognizes it for the gift that it is.
Viscount Greywick (Thaddeus) is a longtime friend of the Wildes. He went to Eton with Jeremy Wilde, his mother is friends with the Duke and Duchess, and he even courted two of the Wilde sisters. He and his mother are more or less treated as one of the family after spending so much time with one another. At first, I wasn't sure that I would care for him. He seemed too uptight for my taste, and very particular about propriety that verged on pompous. His disapproval of Joan seemed excessive-though I must acknowledge that she is Wilde-ly inappropriate at the best of times. (Sorry, pun intended) You can't really blame him for reproaching her attitude, though I wondered how he would be imagined into a romantic figure. I shouldn't have doubted Ms. James, because I came to love him and love him even more coupled with Joan. They were total opposites but once they spent a little time getting to know one another found that they had more things in common than they realized.
She was infuriating, wildly intelligent, better read than anyone he knew—at least in the genre of plays. Headstrong. Stubborn. Reckless to the point of idiocy.
Thaddeus softened fairly quickly after being exposed to Joan's bright, carefree company. She showed him a side of himself that he never expected to see. He let down his defenses and he found himself being dazzled by their intimate picnics. Rather than seeing the false front she put on for the world, her soft side was exposed as well. She seemed younger, more vulnerable than she let on and he was honored that she was allowing him a peek into her true self. My favorite scenes in the book were the picnic scenes. They spent idyllic time lazing around, feasting on delicious food, and speaking from their hearts. They were moments of joy and laughter-which had been almost non-existent in Thaddeus' strict life.
Although he was raised in privilege, he never knew the love of his father and that hurt him deeply. He always strove to be the best and strongest at everything in the hopes of gaining his father's attention but it was never to be. His appearance of being perfect with the perfect life was artificial. Those who knew anything about his family, knew that his father scandalously chose his mistress over his wife and son. And now, Thaddeus faced the very real threat of his father shocking and embarrassing his mother publicly if he didn't give him what he wanted. One thing that this conflict showed was Thaddeus' devotion to his mother. His only concern was protecting her from public scorn. Although he remained disappointed at his father's antics, he long ago gave up any hope for himself that he would ever grow to care about him.
The main roadblock between this couple was Joan's "tarnished reputation." Due to his father's behavior, he knew that he needed to find a woman who was suitable to be a Duchess. Someone who might repair the damage to his family name. Joan in all of her headstrong glory was totally out of the question. Wasn't she? The longer he spent around her, the less convinced he became. She may be better at playing a hilarious version of Hamlet than needlework or the pianoforte, but she was the first person who frequently made him laugh. They both bore the brunt of a parent's reckless and selfish behavior, but she flourished, while he retreated within himself. They helped each other grow individually, so even though they seemed to rush headfirst into love, it wasn't entirely unbelievable. They had a long established acquaintance already-they just needed to dig a little deeper under the surface to see what was there all along.
Looking at Thaddeus’s hard jaw and flinty eyes, Joan had the distinct feeling that she had misunderstood the man. He wasn’t cold, but rather explosive. Not uncaring, but caring too much.
I enjoyed Joan and Thaddeus very much! They were overwhelmingly sweet and hilarious to watch fall in love. The banter was on point (as always), and I had a smile on my face all the way through. Sometimes I get frustrated when the main characters' families intrude heavily on the plot as it may take away from the romantic relationship development. I will never complain about that with a Wilde book. I cherish all the time I have with each and every one, and this was no exception. If you haven't started this series yet, I highly recommend you introduce yourself to this very loving and entertaining family.
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March 29, 2021
I've been reading Eloisa James books for years but the last few books in her Wildes of Lindow Castle series are among my favorites. I've enjoyed their lightness of spirit, sparkling wit, sizzling chemistry, sense of humor, and feel-good emotion that warms my heart.
I really had no idea what to expect from Wilde Child. Both Joan and Thaddeus had appeared in earlier books but I had only come to know them at a surface level. There had been no attachment formed and my first opinions of Thaddeus were not all that favorable. That all began to change as I read their story and the layers behind the masks both presented to society were slowly peeled away. The evolution of Thaddeus's character was significant, and anticipated, but what surprised me more was the evolution of Joan. I had not expected her growth nor the direction it took. Watching both of them discover their true selves as their relationship progressed was pure pleasure. They made me laugh, made me sigh, and filled me with their joy. In these two, James has created interesting, fully-developed, sensual, loyal, caring, multi-layered characters who though, at first glance, seem completely wrong for one another, are actually the missing puzzle pieces that make one another whole. I adored them.
This is (possibly) the final book in the Wildes of Lindow Castle series. Fans are still hopeful that eldest brother, Horatius lives. His family believes he died eleven years ago but as his body was never recovered from the bog, that door remains slightly ajar. Whether James will resurrect him remains unknown though there are many tidbits scattered throughout Wilde Child that could be followed if she decides to return him to his family and share his story. Whether that occurs or not, Wilde Child is a fitting conclusion to the series and a tribute to this fiercely loving and unapologetically loyal family.
Though Wilde Child is the sixth book of this series, it can absolutely be read on its own. However, once you meet the other family members (and there are many featured in this final book), you'll most likely be eager to read their books as well.
*ARC received from publisher via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
(though I also bought a copy for my keeper shelf)
I really had no idea what to expect from Wilde Child. Both Joan and Thaddeus had appeared in earlier books but I had only come to know them at a surface level. There had been no attachment formed and my first opinions of Thaddeus were not all that favorable. That all began to change as I read their story and the layers behind the masks both presented to society were slowly peeled away. The evolution of Thaddeus's character was significant, and anticipated, but what surprised me more was the evolution of Joan. I had not expected her growth nor the direction it took. Watching both of them discover their true selves as their relationship progressed was pure pleasure. They made me laugh, made me sigh, and filled me with their joy. In these two, James has created interesting, fully-developed, sensual, loyal, caring, multi-layered characters who though, at first glance, seem completely wrong for one another, are actually the missing puzzle pieces that make one another whole. I adored them.
This is (possibly) the final book in the Wildes of Lindow Castle series. Fans are still hopeful that eldest brother, Horatius lives. His family believes he died eleven years ago but as his body was never recovered from the bog, that door remains slightly ajar. Whether James will resurrect him remains unknown though there are many tidbits scattered throughout Wilde Child that could be followed if she decides to return him to his family and share his story. Whether that occurs or not, Wilde Child is a fitting conclusion to the series and a tribute to this fiercely loving and unapologetically loyal family.
Though Wilde Child is the sixth book of this series, it can absolutely be read on its own. However, once you meet the other family members (and there are many featured in this final book), you'll most likely be eager to read their books as well.
*ARC received from publisher via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
(though I also bought a copy for my keeper shelf)
September 22, 2021
After the humour, passion and drama of the previous books in this series, this one was a surprising let-down for me.
Not as interesting or as exciting, no real sexual tension and no drama. The author could have done so much more with the fascinating character of Joan, but it became a bit domestic and bland. And Thaddeus was a bit of a bore, tbh.
It was a fine book, I liked it, but it is not one I would read again.
Not as interesting or as exciting, no real sexual tension and no drama. The author could have done so much more with the fascinating character of Joan, but it became a bit domestic and bland. And Thaddeus was a bit of a bore, tbh.
It was a fine book, I liked it, but it is not one I would read again.
April 25, 2021
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, steamy, historical romance novel. It has likable, engaging characters, wit, humor, a heart warming romance, family drama, a Shakespearean play, and a happily ever after ending. It can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, or after reading each of Ms. James' amazing Wilde stories in order, which I have done. Ms. James never disappoints her readers!
April 3, 2021
Amazing, as always! I loved the angst and all the sweet witty banter between the hero Thaddeus Shaw, Viscount Greywick, and heroine Lady Joan Wilde. They’re so cute and funny with lots of kissing, sizzling chemistry and conversation in between. I had so much fun reading Lady Joan’s story. It was everything I expected and more. Thaddeus surprised me by being quite charming, and his love for Lady Joan knew no bounds. I loved seeing that. They fit together perfectly and were equal partners in everything. Having her own opinions be heard was most important to Lady Joan. Thaddeus listened and took her opinions to heart. There were sooo many swoon worthy moments. I adored this story.
After finishing an Eloisa James Wildes novel I always say that it’s my new favorite because, hands down, this series only gets better and better with each new book. It’s a fantastic HR series that I highly recommend.
After finishing an Eloisa James Wildes novel I always say that it’s my new favorite because, hands down, this series only gets better and better with each new book. It’s a fantastic HR series that I highly recommend.
April 6, 2021
would that i could adequately convey to all regency romance authors that having your characters (female, especially) want to do something ~out of the ordinary for the era~ does NOT a personality make
April 2, 2021
Delightful, fun, sexy, horn, hate-to-love tale.
Also... I love this family so much.
Also... I love this family so much.
December 23, 2020
I absolutely love this series and I could not wait to read this book. It was as wonderful as I thought it would be. Maybe even better than I expected. It is the story featuring Joan Wilde, who is the daughter of the the Duke and his second wife who took off with a Prussian Soldier and who he divorced before he married his Last Duchess. Joan is the girl with blonde hair so while she is loved by her family, society believes she is the daughter of a Prussian rather than the Duke.
In this story, Thaddeus, Viscount Greywick, the future Duke of Eversly is visiting the Wilde's. His mother is friends with Louisa Wilde who is the Duke's sister. The father is not in the picture as soon as T was born he ran off with his mistress and has lived with her for many years and had children with her. Because of his fathers scandal, T feels he needs to marry a highborn daughter without any scandal attached and thats why he has never looked at Joan romantically.
Meanwhile Joan has always wanted to be in the theatre and her father has arranged for her to play Hamlet but she needs some skills and T offers to teach her them and thats when the fun gets started as we and Joan falls hard for T.
This was a really wonderful story. I loved that its patterned after Hamlet and that it is performed in this book not once but twice. I loved how Joan and T form a real frienship that ends up leading to romance and I loved how Joan ends up saving T. The ending was also really wonderful as we get to see their future.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from NETGALLERY prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this story, Thaddeus, Viscount Greywick, the future Duke of Eversly is visiting the Wilde's. His mother is friends with Louisa Wilde who is the Duke's sister. The father is not in the picture as soon as T was born he ran off with his mistress and has lived with her for many years and had children with her. Because of his fathers scandal, T feels he needs to marry a highborn daughter without any scandal attached and thats why he has never looked at Joan romantically.
Meanwhile Joan has always wanted to be in the theatre and her father has arranged for her to play Hamlet but she needs some skills and T offers to teach her them and thats when the fun gets started as we and Joan falls hard for T.
This was a really wonderful story. I loved that its patterned after Hamlet and that it is performed in this book not once but twice. I loved how Joan and T form a real frienship that ends up leading to romance and I loved how Joan ends up saving T. The ending was also really wonderful as we get to see their future.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from NETGALLERY prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2022
the promise of this book was better than the actual book...
sadly! I live with the Wilde family and some books in this series, I will probably reread.. this one was off with plot and main couple chemistry..
sadly! I live with the Wilde family and some books in this series, I will probably reread.. this one was off with plot and main couple chemistry..
October 23, 2022
Lady Joan Wilde has been a scandal virtually since she was born, her blonde hair a testament to her mother’s well-known extramarital affair. She’s never been much bothered by the gossip and scandal that follow her, but her intention to perform the lead role in Hamlet, in men’s clothes no less, may see her ruined for good.
Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick and heir to the Duke of Eversley, a man who dislikes her and has enumerated reasons he could never marry her, is the perfect model for princely arrogance. Joan of course has no interest in him beyond perfecting her character.
Thaddeus has avoided Joan because of his uncontrolled reaction to her but he can’t stand by while she puts herself in danger and vows to keep her safe. He makes an unlikely bargain with her: after one public performance she must return to her role as a lady and marry a gentleman Thaddeus recommends. Not that Thaddeus himself could ever be said man.
This was such a cute story. At first, I thought I might wind up disliking Joan given her disdain for her very fortunate position in life. As her character was fleshed out and became understandable, I quite liked her and admired her pluck. I also enjoyed her introspectiveness, which seemed contrary to the lively personality she presented to the world but meant she was able to reevaluate her thoughts on what she wanted for herself and realign her priorities. She was sunshine to Thaddeus� grumpy and brought out his true personality behind the ducal façade he didn’t even realize he wore. Thaddeus and Joan were each just what the other never knew they needed and their journey to this realization was filled with entertaining banter and adorable moments as they came to know each other, and their attraction and connection became apparent. I truly adored the Wilde family and other supporting characters here; especially how supportive they were of Thaddeus in the wake of his own father’s hatefulness. This story was light-hearted and low in angst and left me with just the warm and fuzzy feeling I was needing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link:
Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick and heir to the Duke of Eversley, a man who dislikes her and has enumerated reasons he could never marry her, is the perfect model for princely arrogance. Joan of course has no interest in him beyond perfecting her character.
Thaddeus has avoided Joan because of his uncontrolled reaction to her but he can’t stand by while she puts herself in danger and vows to keep her safe. He makes an unlikely bargain with her: after one public performance she must return to her role as a lady and marry a gentleman Thaddeus recommends. Not that Thaddeus himself could ever be said man.
This was such a cute story. At first, I thought I might wind up disliking Joan given her disdain for her very fortunate position in life. As her character was fleshed out and became understandable, I quite liked her and admired her pluck. I also enjoyed her introspectiveness, which seemed contrary to the lively personality she presented to the world but meant she was able to reevaluate her thoughts on what she wanted for herself and realign her priorities. She was sunshine to Thaddeus� grumpy and brought out his true personality behind the ducal façade he didn’t even realize he wore. Thaddeus and Joan were each just what the other never knew they needed and their journey to this realization was filled with entertaining banter and adorable moments as they came to know each other, and their attraction and connection became apparent. I truly adored the Wilde family and other supporting characters here; especially how supportive they were of Thaddeus in the wake of his own father’s hatefulness. This story was light-hearted and low in angst and left me with just the warm and fuzzy feeling I was needing.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link:
January 15, 2021
After watching Viscount Greywick-- the grumpiest of grumpy future dukes-- get shot down more than once in this series, it was fairly satisfying to watch him come around to falling in love with Joan, the wildest of the Wildes. I loved Joan's confidence and how it consistently ran up against Thaddeus's stick-in-the-mud demeanor. SUCH great fun.
May 16, 2022
if my partner doesn’t fall in love with me whilst trying to do anything stop me from portraying hamlet i don’t want it
June 14, 2022
God, I love ŷ, but in this case, I wish I hadn't joined so I wouldn't have to rate this. In times before I had GR, I would just either think to myself I liked a book, loved it, or didn't like it at all. Ahh, the simpler times.
This book was 3.5 to 4 stars for me. The hero, Thaddeus, was a little stuffy but so adorable. I grew to love him just like Joan. Thaddeus, for his part, learned how to laugh and be less proper. Joan's my grandma's name. I thought it was a little weird how Joan was so interested in being an actress, and then after two performances of her playing Hamlet, she was like okay, I'm done. It seemed like the author wanted her to be done with those ambitions/desires so she could be a wife to Thaddeus.
My favorite part of this was the kissing scenes. They just kissed for so long, so many different times, before progressing to more intimate things. I thought it was a little unlikely that Thaddeus had never gone down on a woman before Joan. Then, of all sudden, Joan was in love with him, and I was like huh? Even though I felt like it was too early (it sounded like the way too many authors just declare in their third-person POV, that the heroine is now in love with him, at the random time they deem appropriate), I found it romantic because he didn't love her yet, or he hadn't realized it yet. Though Joan did take forever to tell him that she loved him back after he first told her.
Also, they were innocently discovering each other's bodies and kissing outside so many times, on the island especially. Ooh, and their first kiss was in a snake tent, which was funny. I liked how Eloisa James didn't try to make Joan conform to modern beauty standards. Yes, she was slender, yet had a juicy butt and breasts, but she also had hair on her legs. And she was never described as having a flat stomach...instead, the gentle curve of her stomach was described.
I felt like this book ran a little too long after they pledged their love for the other, but I guess Eloisa James was trying to wrap up the conflict of Thaddeus's father wanting to disinherit him in favor of his family with his mistress.
Also, the epilogue was weird and made me think their first-born son, Horatius, had autism or something. (I was like huh, how do you know? when Joan said that she knew she had gotten pregnant the night she lost her virginity to Thaddeus. That should have been brought up in the epilogue.) Otherwise, I may have given 4 stars. I wonder if there will ever be a book for Artie or the other younger siblings (I don't even know if there were any other siblings, but the children in the nursery kept on being mentioned.).
You'd think for a 374-page book, the ages of both characters could be mentioned, but they never were. :/
I know Joan was at least eighteen because it was mentioned that a gift was given to her on her 18th birthday.
I stopped reading this book after page 50 and put it down for a while. I'm so glad I decided to read on & not DNF.
This book was 3.5 to 4 stars for me. The hero, Thaddeus, was a little stuffy but so adorable. I grew to love him just like Joan. Thaddeus, for his part, learned how to laugh and be less proper. Joan's my grandma's name. I thought it was a little weird how Joan was so interested in being an actress, and then after two performances of her playing Hamlet, she was like okay, I'm done. It seemed like the author wanted her to be done with those ambitions/desires so she could be a wife to Thaddeus.
My favorite part of this was the kissing scenes. They just kissed for so long, so many different times, before progressing to more intimate things. I thought it was a little unlikely that Thaddeus had never gone down on a woman before Joan. Then, of all sudden, Joan was in love with him, and I was like huh? Even though I felt like it was too early (it sounded like the way too many authors just declare in their third-person POV, that the heroine is now in love with him, at the random time they deem appropriate), I found it romantic because he didn't love her yet, or he hadn't realized it yet. Though Joan did take forever to tell him that she loved him back after he first told her.
Also, they were innocently discovering each other's bodies and kissing outside so many times, on the island especially. Ooh, and their first kiss was in a snake tent, which was funny. I liked how Eloisa James didn't try to make Joan conform to modern beauty standards. Yes, she was slender, yet had a juicy butt and breasts, but she also had hair on her legs. And she was never described as having a flat stomach...instead, the gentle curve of her stomach was described.
I felt like this book ran a little too long after they pledged their love for the other, but I guess Eloisa James was trying to wrap up the conflict of Thaddeus's father wanting to disinherit him in favor of his family with his mistress.
Also, the epilogue was weird and made me think their first-born son, Horatius, had autism or something. (I was like huh, how do you know? when Joan said that she knew she had gotten pregnant the night she lost her virginity to Thaddeus. That should have been brought up in the epilogue.) Otherwise, I may have given 4 stars. I wonder if there will ever be a book for Artie or the other younger siblings (I don't even know if there were any other siblings, but the children in the nursery kept on being mentioned.).
You'd think for a 374-page book, the ages of both characters could be mentioned, but they never were. :/
I know Joan was at least eighteen because it was mentioned that a gift was given to her on her 18th birthday.
I stopped reading this book after page 50 and put it down for a while. I'm so glad I decided to read on & not DNF.
March 31, 2021
I can always count on Eloisa James to put a smile on my face. This is a terrific series. I do enjoy those Wilde's!
June 25, 2022
Een passend einde voor deze leuke serie , over twee tegenpolen die maar niet kunnen geloven dat ze zich toch ècht tot elkaar aangetrokken voelen . Het duurt dan ook een tijdje voor ze het beiden door hebben en het maakt de opbouw naar de eerste vrij scene een soort van spannend .
April 8, 2021
Really liked this! My favorite in the series so far and my favorite I've read by Eloisa James. Thaddeus was exactly my brand of "I am feeling an emotion right now and I don't know what it is, but I am very bothered by it" and I loved Joan. I was really into their dynamic and the fact that once they decided they would be together, they were just together.
The one thing that kept this from being five stars was
The one thing that kept this from being five stars was
January 26, 2021
Lindow Castle, Cheshire, England - 1784
Lady Joan Wilde wants, more than anything, to be an actress. She loves the excitement, the costumes, memorizing lines, and being on stage. Unfortunately, as a young lady in the household of the Duke of Lindow, acting would cause a huge scandal for the family. Truth be told, however, Joan cares little for the ton, or anything about being the lady it expects her to be. For, in reality, Joan is not a true daughter of the duke. Shortly after her birth, her mother, the then duchess, ran off with her lover, a Prussian count, Joan's father, never to be heard from again. The duke, being a man of honor and one who loves all of his children, including his new wife's child, has never thought of Joan as other than his own blood. The major problem, of course, is that Society knows the whole sordid story, so Joan will never be welcomed into any high ranking family. So, why not become an actress?
Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick, and his mother, the Duchess of Eversley, are visiting Lindow Castle. He is in need of a wife. Having already courted, and lost, two of Joan's older sisters, he is accompanying the duchess, who is close friends of his host's sister, but is irritated to be in the company of the rather annoying Joan. He'd never consider marriage to her due to her, well, illegitimacy. Yes, she's lovely, but today she is wearing, of all things, breeches! Not that it's any business of his, but Thaddeus is constantly shaking his head over Joan's flippant, and irreverent behavior. However, it seems Joan's father has allowed her this costume as she is playing Hamlet in the play for her family's enjoyment.
Joan is, herself, irritated by Greywick's obvious disdain over her costume, as well as the fact that she wants to be an actress. But somehow, during the course of the discussion about the play, Greywick agrees to teach her fencing, and even agrees to accompany her to meet the traveling acting company to play Hamlet in front of a public audience! What on earth has gotten into him? Joan is floored, but secretly delighted. As strait-laced and annoying as Greywick can be, he's still rather attractive.
Thaddeus has his own uncomfortable background. His father, the duke, left his mother after Thaddeus' birth to return to his mistress, the woman he truly loves. All of his life Thaddeus has struggled to understand this, and now his father is trying to get him to renounce his right to the dukedom in lieu of his illegitimate half-brother. Of course, English law doesn't allow such an atrocity of justice, but it's still hurtful.
How can two people who have grown up disliking each other possibly get to common ground? Well, as usual, Eloisa James manages to weave a sweet, funny, and poignant tale to get Joan and Thaddeus to at least be nice to each other eventually, and possibly overcome their past hurts. There are plenty of Wildes involved, as usual, and they're pretty good about seeing the light way before Joan and Thaddeus. You can count on them to rally around them, no matter what.
WILDE CHILD was such a fun story, and I don't think readers of the Wilde family antics will be disappoint
Lady Joan Wilde wants, more than anything, to be an actress. She loves the excitement, the costumes, memorizing lines, and being on stage. Unfortunately, as a young lady in the household of the Duke of Lindow, acting would cause a huge scandal for the family. Truth be told, however, Joan cares little for the ton, or anything about being the lady it expects her to be. For, in reality, Joan is not a true daughter of the duke. Shortly after her birth, her mother, the then duchess, ran off with her lover, a Prussian count, Joan's father, never to be heard from again. The duke, being a man of honor and one who loves all of his children, including his new wife's child, has never thought of Joan as other than his own blood. The major problem, of course, is that Society knows the whole sordid story, so Joan will never be welcomed into any high ranking family. So, why not become an actress?
Thaddeus Erskine Shaw, Viscount Greywick, and his mother, the Duchess of Eversley, are visiting Lindow Castle. He is in need of a wife. Having already courted, and lost, two of Joan's older sisters, he is accompanying the duchess, who is close friends of his host's sister, but is irritated to be in the company of the rather annoying Joan. He'd never consider marriage to her due to her, well, illegitimacy. Yes, she's lovely, but today she is wearing, of all things, breeches! Not that it's any business of his, but Thaddeus is constantly shaking his head over Joan's flippant, and irreverent behavior. However, it seems Joan's father has allowed her this costume as she is playing Hamlet in the play for her family's enjoyment.
Joan is, herself, irritated by Greywick's obvious disdain over her costume, as well as the fact that she wants to be an actress. But somehow, during the course of the discussion about the play, Greywick agrees to teach her fencing, and even agrees to accompany her to meet the traveling acting company to play Hamlet in front of a public audience! What on earth has gotten into him? Joan is floored, but secretly delighted. As strait-laced and annoying as Greywick can be, he's still rather attractive.
Thaddeus has his own uncomfortable background. His father, the duke, left his mother after Thaddeus' birth to return to his mistress, the woman he truly loves. All of his life Thaddeus has struggled to understand this, and now his father is trying to get him to renounce his right to the dukedom in lieu of his illegitimate half-brother. Of course, English law doesn't allow such an atrocity of justice, but it's still hurtful.
How can two people who have grown up disliking each other possibly get to common ground? Well, as usual, Eloisa James manages to weave a sweet, funny, and poignant tale to get Joan and Thaddeus to at least be nice to each other eventually, and possibly overcome their past hurts. There are plenty of Wildes involved, as usual, and they're pretty good about seeing the light way before Joan and Thaddeus. You can count on them to rally around them, no matter what.
WILDE CHILD was such a fun story, and I don't think readers of the Wilde family antics will be disappoint
March 29, 2021
I feel like I’ve been waiting for Joan’s book since this series started and it was so worth the wait.
I’ve loved Joan since the first time she walked onto the page. She comes across as flighty and uncaring, but she’s loyal and filled with heart. Thaddeus starts out as stoic and is quite charming and determined. Together these two had an organic progression of their relationship and chemistry for days.
Plot wise, it was so joyful. The conflict came from outside of the couple and I truly loved that they were partners in everything. There were loads of honest conversations and kissing and of course it was delightful to see the other Wildes.
Overall, this has been a fantastic series and I know I need to do a reread binge soon soon soon.
**Huge thanks to Avon for providing the arc free of charge**
I’ve loved Joan since the first time she walked onto the page. She comes across as flighty and uncaring, but she’s loyal and filled with heart. Thaddeus starts out as stoic and is quite charming and determined. Together these two had an organic progression of their relationship and chemistry for days.
Plot wise, it was so joyful. The conflict came from outside of the couple and I truly loved that they were partners in everything. There were loads of honest conversations and kissing and of course it was delightful to see the other Wildes.
Overall, this has been a fantastic series and I know I need to do a reread binge soon soon soon.
**Huge thanks to Avon for providing the arc free of charge**
May 1, 2021
What a lovely entertaining book. This author has a sense of humour - Lady Bumtrinket! Really. I laughed every time I read her name.
Otis was so funny. I know he wore ladies clothes for the part in a play, but he seemed to like wearing lady's clothes a bit too much, at first anyway. Loved reading it. 5�
Otis was so funny. I know he wore ladies clothes for the part in a play, but he seemed to like wearing lady's clothes a bit too much, at first anyway. Loved reading it. 5�
April 1, 2021
Oh my god this book had so much potential but was sooo boring! the whole thing just doesn't flow naturally - the humour is forced, the romance is forced. This author wrote an excellent book called borne to be wilde - don't know what happened here
April 5, 2021
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
Wilde Child is the 6th installment of The Wildes of Lindow Castle series. While it is possible to read the novel as a standalone or out of series order, I strongly suggest against doing so. The couplings of all of the Wilde children, along with events from past books are brought up on the pages. If a new reader found this as delightful to read as I did, they would end up spoiling the previous installments for themselves.
FINALLY.
We hear from Jane.
Born within a marriage, Lady Jane is seen as the daughter of a duke. However, all know her mother left her in the cradle, abandoning as she ran off with her lover, Lady Jane's true father. With two curses hanging over her head, in a society built on stringent rules, Lady Jane is neither biologically related to anyone in her household/family, while not truly illegitimate as she was born within the marriage, but she is also the daughter of an unfaithful, abandoning mother who divorced a duke.
Lady Jane is a stunning beauty, whispered about in ballrooms. Those with titles see her as a mark against their reputation should they fall for her. While others see her dowry and title as a way to climb up in polite society.
Having heard it all since her birth, those fair features of her birth father signifying how she is most certainly no Wilde, Jane lets it all wash off her back. Since she will not be welcome into polite society anyway, why not do as she wishes, tossing the rules and living life as she sees fit. In the true chaotic, zany fashion of the rest of the Wildes.
Thaddeus is a stickler for rules, never welcoming even an air of impropriety. The son of a duke, acting as the duke for the majority of his life. His father leaving him and his mother behind to cohabitate with his mistress and chosen children. Thaddeus must live by the letter of the law, trying to outrun his father's reputation. He must marry a woman who will help not hinder his reputation.
Having gone through two of the Wilde daughters on the marriage mart, the third is not a proper lady, but that doesn't mean Thaddeus isn't drawn to the Wilde family, wishing for the family structure and love he missed out on as a child, but it is Lady Jane Thaddeus cannot seem to ignore.
A budding actress in britches, Lady Jane is trying her hand at being Hamlet, putting the production on for her family to enjoy. Jane dressed as a bloke, her best friend, Otis, dressed as Ophelia. These zany elements bring levity, a delight to read. While not too over the top, it is a pleasant escape for everyday stressors.
Jane and Thaddeus are polar opposites, bringing out the best parts of one another. Thaddeus forces Jane to see that she has a future, if only she'd reached out to grasp it. While Jane shows Thaddeus the adventure, the laughter, the light and love, and the hope that it doesn't have to be lonely at the top.
Partnership and joy are at their fingertips, if only they don't get in their own way.
Lighthearted and warm, dry wit and zany humor, well-meaning and villainous relatives, sharp-tongued society mavens and strong support systems. Wilde Child displays polar opposite themes, just like the Hero and Heroine of the tale.
Highly recommend to fans of Historical Romance. Eloisa James is at the top of my favorites list in this genre. Broody and happy characters, a menagerie of animals, the plight of being at the top, romance mixed with dry wit, all of Eloisa James' series have been a delight to read.
Wilde Child is the 6th installment of The Wildes of Lindow Castle series. While it is possible to read the novel as a standalone or out of series order, I strongly suggest against doing so. The couplings of all of the Wilde children, along with events from past books are brought up on the pages. If a new reader found this as delightful to read as I did, they would end up spoiling the previous installments for themselves.
FINALLY.
We hear from Jane.
Born within a marriage, Lady Jane is seen as the daughter of a duke. However, all know her mother left her in the cradle, abandoning as she ran off with her lover, Lady Jane's true father. With two curses hanging over her head, in a society built on stringent rules, Lady Jane is neither biologically related to anyone in her household/family, while not truly illegitimate as she was born within the marriage, but she is also the daughter of an unfaithful, abandoning mother who divorced a duke.
Lady Jane is a stunning beauty, whispered about in ballrooms. Those with titles see her as a mark against their reputation should they fall for her. While others see her dowry and title as a way to climb up in polite society.
Having heard it all since her birth, those fair features of her birth father signifying how she is most certainly no Wilde, Jane lets it all wash off her back. Since she will not be welcome into polite society anyway, why not do as she wishes, tossing the rules and living life as she sees fit. In the true chaotic, zany fashion of the rest of the Wildes.
Thaddeus is a stickler for rules, never welcoming even an air of impropriety. The son of a duke, acting as the duke for the majority of his life. His father leaving him and his mother behind to cohabitate with his mistress and chosen children. Thaddeus must live by the letter of the law, trying to outrun his father's reputation. He must marry a woman who will help not hinder his reputation.
Having gone through two of the Wilde daughters on the marriage mart, the third is not a proper lady, but that doesn't mean Thaddeus isn't drawn to the Wilde family, wishing for the family structure and love he missed out on as a child, but it is Lady Jane Thaddeus cannot seem to ignore.
A budding actress in britches, Lady Jane is trying her hand at being Hamlet, putting the production on for her family to enjoy. Jane dressed as a bloke, her best friend, Otis, dressed as Ophelia. These zany elements bring levity, a delight to read. While not too over the top, it is a pleasant escape for everyday stressors.
Jane and Thaddeus are polar opposites, bringing out the best parts of one another. Thaddeus forces Jane to see that she has a future, if only she'd reached out to grasp it. While Jane shows Thaddeus the adventure, the laughter, the light and love, and the hope that it doesn't have to be lonely at the top.
Partnership and joy are at their fingertips, if only they don't get in their own way.
Lighthearted and warm, dry wit and zany humor, well-meaning and villainous relatives, sharp-tongued society mavens and strong support systems. Wilde Child displays polar opposite themes, just like the Hero and Heroine of the tale.
Highly recommend to fans of Historical Romance. Eloisa James is at the top of my favorites list in this genre. Broody and happy characters, a menagerie of animals, the plight of being at the top, romance mixed with dry wit, all of Eloisa James' series have been a delight to read.
May 22, 2021
What's not to like about Eloisa James "The Wildes of Lindow Castle". I truly enjoyed all in the series and this one was especially good. I was thankful for being able to get it through my public library.
April 11, 2021
This was fine. I'm having difficulty caring when reading romance novels lately....
March 20, 2021
We all have that Author. You know, the one who literally always publishes books that you’re destined to love. Eloisa James has been that Author for me for YEARS. Her books can always be counted on for a good one sitting read. They are literally my favorite slump busters and she has never written a book I didn’t completely fall in love with. I’ve also never made it through one of her books with dry eyes. I cry every single time, without fail.
I’ve been dying for Joan’s story for ages. She was always the Wilde that I was most curious about. She’s a free spirit and I kind of expected her to end up with someone equally wild. When I read the synopsis and realized who Eloisa James had paired Joan with, I wasn’t sure how to react. Thaddeus has been in previous books but always seemed like a man with a stick up his ass. Naturally, I shouldn’t have doubted Eloisa James because she absolutely made me fall in love with Thaddeus.
The two of them had such a wonderfully beautiful story that genuinely made me smile and cry. I couldn’t put the book down and spent my entire Saturday neglecting chores and adulting in general so that I could finish Wilde Child. The Wilde family may always be my personal favorite historical romance family and I hope to see more of them in the future. I will always need more Wilde drama!
I’ve been dying for Joan’s story for ages. She was always the Wilde that I was most curious about. She’s a free spirit and I kind of expected her to end up with someone equally wild. When I read the synopsis and realized who Eloisa James had paired Joan with, I wasn’t sure how to react. Thaddeus has been in previous books but always seemed like a man with a stick up his ass. Naturally, I shouldn’t have doubted Eloisa James because she absolutely made me fall in love with Thaddeus.
The two of them had such a wonderfully beautiful story that genuinely made me smile and cry. I couldn’t put the book down and spent my entire Saturday neglecting chores and adulting in general so that I could finish Wilde Child. The Wilde family may always be my personal favorite historical romance family and I hope to see more of them in the future. I will always need more Wilde drama!
January 13, 2021
I’m ever glad to return to the world of the Wildes, and their continued romantic adventures. This installment does not disappoint. I'm hoping that the recent Bridgerton adaptation spawns a wealth of new regency tv drama, and the Wildes are certainly in my top 3 to see on screen. An irreverent romp with a heart of gold, just like all the rest.
Advanced readers copy provided by Edelweiss
Advanced readers copy provided by Edelweiss
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