A Perfect Scoundrel (Signet Regency Romance) [Paperback]

Martha Kirkland (Author)

Book Description

Series: Signet Regency Romance | Publication Date: January 6, 2004

Juliet knows better than to reveal her heart to her soldier, Alex. She doesn't stand a chance at winning the love of the most marriageable man in England. But little does she know that he isn't afraid to risk everything for a few not-so-innocent kisses-and perhaps more...

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Signet (January 6, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0451210409
• ISBN-13: 978-0451210401
• Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 4.3 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,428,235 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars a light and charming read: 3 1/2 stars, January 7, 2004

By 

tregatt (Portland, Oregon) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Perfect Scoundrel (Signet Regency Romance) (Paperback)

Ever since they were children, Major Alexander Portman has been following his older twin, Anthony (the future sixth Baron Bevin), into mischief. But maturity, years in the army and the Peninsula war has matured Alexander. The same, unfortunately, cannot be said for Anthony who has spent the past few years charming his way through the ton. Now, Anthony wants Alexander to impersonate him. The twins' grandfather is hosting a house-party and wants Anthony to be there to welcome a few old family friends. Anthony, however, would much rather attend a 'mill' with a few of his friends than spend his time evading matrimonial traps. Alexander is, at first, determined not to be swayed by his brother; but a good friend's need for a hiding place finds him agreeing to Anthony's scheme. Devoutly hoping that he will not live to rue the day, Alexander makes for Portman Park with his friend. If all goes well no one will ever know of this latest prank. What Alexander didn't count on was the presence of his childhood friend, Juliet Moseby -- the only person who could ever tell the twins apart -- or how the mere sight of this charming lady would make him realize just how much he has always cared for her. But Juliet, in spite of her charm, intelligence and beauty seems intent on keeping him at an arm's length solely because of her illegitimate birth. Can Alexander persuade Juliet to put aside her wary feelings and believe in his love and good intentions? And how will Alexander's grandfather take these new developments?

If you're looking for a light and charming read, you can't go very wrong with "A Perfect Scoundrel" -- though I wasn't exactly sure as to who the scoundrel was in this story. The two main characters, Juliet and Alexander, were both likable characters and one could find oneself believing the love and affection that they had for each other. Martha Kirkland did a wonderful job of portraying Juliet's situation -- the insults that are thrown at her daily because of her illegitimate birth, and her uncertainty about Alexander's true feelings. The other subplot involving the current baron's guests (the Quicks) and Mrs. Quick's attempts to push her daughters at both Alexander and Anthony was well done too, as was the third subplot involving Juliet's search for her natural father. Unfortunately this embarrassment of richness meant that all three subplots were stretched thin and not developed nearly enough. Still, "A Perfect Scoundrel" did make for an entertaining read and a pleasant way to spend a rainy afternoon.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Good book, good premise, but something's missing, February 8, 2004

By 

E. Kay "eclectic6" (Ohio) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: A Perfect Scoundrel (Signet Regency Romance) (Paperback)

Alexander Portman wants no part in his brother's scheme. Alex's twin brother, Anthony, is the family's heir--even though he's slightly more inclined to bad behavior. He wants Alexander to pretend to be him while visiting his grandfather's estate. Alexander wants to decline, but a debt of honor changes his mind.

Juliet Moseby has been in love with Alexander since she was a little girl, when he saved her from a neighborhood bully. Her heart has always been his. However, she is just somebody's natural daughter; she doesn't even know who her father is. Because she is in love with Alex, she has always been able to tell one twin from the other. When Alex claims to be Tony, she sees through the scheme in an instant.

For the most part, I enjoyed the book--especially the last third. The beginning and middle were a bit slow. The subplot that deals with Juliet finding her father is very interesting, although I saw the "twist" coming from a mile away. I also enjoyed the ending very much.

However, the book seemed to lack something. I can't put my finger on it, though. I think Ms. Kirkland could've spent more time developing the romance. The reader has to assume the characters are in love, rather than see any progression of a relationship. Also, I don't feel like we got to know Alex well enough, nor do I think he can be called a "perfect scoundrel." He wasn't really a scoundrel. He was a nice guy who stole a few kisses and pulled a few childhood pranks (mostly because of his brother).

Overall, I'd give it 3 1/2 stars. After reading Kirkland's "An Inconvenient Heir" (which was a phenomenal book), I've come to expect more from her.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars No Romeo For This Juliet....But Alex Definately Works!, January 27, 2004

By 

Brittney Hinson "garnet17" (Ashford, Alabama) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Perfect Scoundrel (Signet Regency Romance) (Paperback)

Alex Has A Few Secrets:

Alex simply will not pretend to be his identical twin brother for a week so that Anthony can avoid a houseparty at their grandfather's estate, get a break from the matchmaking mamas, and attend a boxing match in the country. HE WILL NOT! Well, then Alex's army buddy shows up badly beaten and needing a place to hide from a wicked card sharp. And Alex's grandfather's estate in the country IS the perfect place to hide. Blast! Looks like he's doing it. So, all Alex has to do is impersonate his brother, conceal a man, fend off a very determined mama, and lie to everyone at a houseparty...it's going to be a very long week.

Juliet Has a Few Secrets of Her Own:

Juliet, Alex and Anthony's oldest and dearest friend, happens to be the only person who can tell the twins apart...and of course she's at the houseparty. So Alex must let Juliet in on his secrets...which brings the childhood pals considerably closer since Juliet is the only person Alex can be himself around...the only person he's not lying to. But, as their friendship deepens into something warmer and far more intimate, it's not Alex's secrets, but Juliet's that threaten their future together...

My Opinion:
I really liked this book. It was refreshing and sweet. I loved the characters and the backstory of Juliet's origins was very moving. This book reminded me why I am a regency romance fan!!!!