Too Wilde to Wed (Wildes of Lindow Castle)

I enjoyed this book overall, but it was slow moving. It took more than a few chapters to get into it, and I wasn't fond of Diana. I was confused about why she didn't leave North a note when she left. Also, North didn't seem to fight for Diana, or care if she married him, until the end of the story.

Not the best of EJ, but certainly enjoyable. I'm a sucker for a good romance with witty dialogue and this fits the bill. I loved North, but found Diana to be a little bit silly at times, and at parts I couldn't see why he was so drawn to her. But the Wilde family is the real star. They are loud, boisterous, and very endearing. Overall a fun read.

Eloisa James has done it again.
I love the humor in her books. The independence of the heroine and perseverance of the hero.
I generally read her books in one sitting!
If you have enjoyed the Duchess series, the Wilde series is not to be missed.

Eloisa James is one of my all time favorite romance authors, so it’s taken me a little while to admit that her writing has lost its spark. Perhaps in time, she will regain the fast-paced, witty dialogue and the sweeping emotions that characterized her earlier work, but this is not it. The dialogue was passable, the characters teetered between boring and melodramatic, and the plot was flimsy (particularly the denouement).

Verdict: 2 stars, given only because at her worst, James is still quite a bit better than a lot of other romance authors.

Honestly couldn't even finish it. Such a boring book with very dull characters. Was hoping it would get better but after reading over half of it, I gave up. The heroine is sweet but ditzy. The hero is dull. The writing is blah. Do not recommend buying this book.

We met Diana and North briefly in Wilde in Love. We meet a totally different Diana and North in this one. And what a difference! So interesting to find their way back to each other. Ups and downs and surprises. A great read!

I will admit that I sometimes get weary of the ahistorical the storeian with a social conscience storming the bastions of Regency England, but this goes way, way too far the other way. The heroine of this book is one of those poor souls who can't tie her shoelaces, not because she is uneducated, but because, as generous and kind as she may be, she is as dumb as a bag of hammers. While she might have been excused from being unable to understand money when she fled her home baby in tow, there is no excuse for her complete inability to understand even the simplest thing by the time the story begins and, as for being a nanny or governess, I am not sure I would let her near a child of mine because continually proves her complete inability to handle the two children currently under her care.

I would have given the book one star for the stupidity of the heroine (the hero isn't all that much brighter by the way), and for the complete lack of a plot (neither main character being bright enough to support one), but James can write, and so the book gets two instead of the one it merits.

I just loved Diana and North! I have been looking forward to reading their story since finishing the first book in the series, Wilde in Love. This book would work perfectly well as a stand alone but the ending of the first book really had me eager to read this second installment. I went into this book with pretty high expectations and they were all surpassed. I really had a fantastic time reading this book.

Diana and North were previously betrothed until Diana left without warning. When Diana left, North decided to join the military and went off to war. Diana had reasons for leaving the way she did and has paid a steep price for her decision. When she runs out of options, Diana takes a job as a governess at Lindow Castle with North's family. Things get really interesting when North returns home and learns all of the rumors surrounding his relationship with Diana.

I loved the characters in this book. In the first book, we were introduced to the Diana and North that were for show but in this book we finally get to meet their true selves. I liked getting to know the real Diana and North and enjoyed watching both of them really get to know each other. It was interesting to watch them both realize that they really knew very little of each other when they had plans to marry. Diana and North both prove to be strong people who will sacrifice to do what is right. I thought that the chemistry between them was extremely well done.

It was really interesting to learn about all of the things that happened that brought both Diana and North to their current life situation. North has fought a war and takes his responsibility as heir very seriously. Diana's story was very interesting and I loved the fact that she was willing to give up so much in order to protect someone she loves. They are both very responsible people who tend to put the needs of others above their own. I had a great time watching them both get their happily ever after.

I would recommend this book to fans of historical romance. This was such a smartly written romance filled with character you couldn't help but cheer on. I can't wait to read more of this fantastic series.

I received a digital review copy of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss.

I am loving the whole big, wild, Wilde family and the great cast of characters that whirl around them at Lindow Castle and in Society. There's always some bit of scandal and a generous amount of chaos whenever this family gets together. Even if they do tease each other over the latest gossip and celebrity prints, they all band together to try to get the best outcome for their family members.

This installment picks up after Diana has jilted North. When he finally tracks her down, she's caring for a baby in a small cottage. He immediately gathers a regiment and is off to the colonies to fight for Britain in the American Revolution. Misunderstandings abound as both characters run from heartache and grief. When they meet again, both North and Diana discover they had been putting on a false front to impress the other, and they never really got to know their true personalities. Given some time together without the prying eyes of Society, maybe there is a second chance to get to know each other and to find love.

I liked both the hero and the heroine. They had both gone through rough experiences, and I really felt like they had a good connection because of the understanding between them. However, the conflict just didn't seem to be that difficult to resolve. I spent most of the book thinking "Why don't you just . . .", and in the end, of course, that's what they did!

I'd recommend this for any fan of historical romance, large fun families, the Georgian period, and Eloisa James.

I received an ARC from the publisher.

After reading and loving the first book in this series, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on North’s story.

I loved Diana and North. She’s headstrong and sassy and he’s changed from being stoic to a bit more open. Together they’re adorable and charming with loads of chemistry. I loved seeing his entire family and how supportive they were.

Plot wise, it was definitely stronger in the first half of the book. Diana’s constant refusal annoyed me more than North’s asking. I did love their open communication, but things definitely got repetitive. I would have rather had more time of them together at the end.

Overall, it was a fun and fluffy read. I loved these two together and I’m insane with excitement at the set up for book 3.

**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**

I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads

5 Stars

Too Wilde to Wed had a more focused, less chaotic feel than its predecessor, which is why I couldn’t put it down until I reached the end. The Wildes of Lindow Castle has a very large cast, at times becoming overwhelming to keep who is who straight. However, I could see how the novel would be easily read as a standalone, even if I feel it best to start with Wilde in Love.

Opening with a short prologue, the reader is given vital information in a way that made it easier to fall into the story and place the events that led up to the current place in the timeline.

Women didn’t have many options, seen more as possessions than human beings, whether the possession be to one’s parents or their husband. Diana was a woman trapped, one who ran and for altruistic reasons. Diana’s view of herself and the world are tainted by the mental and emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her mother, while suffering debilitating grief.

North is a man who doesn’t fit into the role of a duke-to-be, having come back from war with a different mindset. He’d fled after being jilted by Diana and came back a more enlightened man.

This book could have gone in an uncomfortable direction had North held resentment toward Diana. North is quick to accept apologies, see the error of his own ways, and is easy-going compared to his commanding personality. This made reading more pleasant, as the emotions of it were already darker.

To be honest, this novel is filled to the brim with romantic tension, but it’s the numerous conversations that North and Diana share that creates intimacy, which makes their connection feel beyond real.

Instead of focusing on every other character, the focus is on North and Diana forming a bond during interactions, while showcasing the youngsters of the cast.

My only complaint, the novel seemed to ramble from the midway point to nearly three-quarters, where I feared it would veer in a direction that would create forced angst. Thankfully it didn’t head in that way (if you’re reading this review after reading the book, you’ll understand what I meant by that). Diana’s stubbornness, North’s blindness, it became too much- I’ll use the phrase, ‘beating a dead horse’. Over and over again, on repeat, stalling the novel, to the point I won’t deny skim-reading portions.

Other than feeling as if the novel didn’t know how to get from the midway point to the ending, I was thoroughly entertained, enjoying the connection Diana and North had with one another and within the larger cast. The emotions Diana showed felt realistic, tugging at my heartstrings- her feeling of inadequacy, insecurity, and self-consciousness that was placed there by her mother.

The youngsters have me holding out hope that when James runs out of this age-group, she will fast-forward into the future and allow their voices to shine.

The next book was setup perfectly, doing its job by making me hungry to get my hands on it, especially since I’m a sucker for love-hate/enemies-to-lovers storylines.

Highly recommended to historical romance fans, who enjoy a more contemporary take on the genre. While it’s not fade-to-black sexual content, it’s also not salacious. I felt the need to state that after seeing another review. If Eloisa James were Goldilocks, she’d be just right in the between-the-sheets action– tastefully done, plot-driven, and romantic, the passion connects our hero and heroine.

If you've read the first book you know it left off with a bit of a teaser for this book. If you haven't read it while it has North and Diana in it and shows a little bit about their engagement it's not imperative that you read it to fully enjoy this one, but it's a dang good book you should read it anyways. North and Diana are quite the couple, in the two years North was gone quite a bit changed about him and about Diana but once they are back together not hiding behind the makeup and wigs of high fashion and not pretending to be someone they are not they realize they do make a striking couple. North notices first but Diana has a hard letting go of what happened and believing North could love her for who she is now and not what she was back then.

Not to sound cliche but this really is a delightfully witty book, but than again that what Eloisa James is best at, and her romance but really that goes without saying. Diana is probably the worst governess ever but she loves her charges and she tries her best. The Wilde family welcomed her with open arms even after she jilted North. In North's absence he became a notorious rogue and seducer of innocents. The same caricatures that depicted North's brother's adventures around the world as Too Wilde to Love dubbed North as Too Wilde to Wed. That's fine with North if the ton momma's don't focus on him he only has eyes for Diana. What bugs him is the blown out of proportion events that dubbed him Too Wilde to Wed and how it affected Diana. Even before North finds out the truth about what happened two years ago he knows without a doubt that he still wants Diana and he spend almost the whole book proving to her that they were meant to be together.

Overall, between the wit and the romance it had me laughing and awwing the whole book. Diana gets a little annoying every now and then but North more than make up for it. The kids are adorable and if you didn't have a thing for peacocks before you might have one after reading this. Once again Eloisa astounds me with amazing writing, fantastic characters, drool worthy heroes, and a beautiful romance. I look forward to the future books with the rest of the Wilde kids. Honestly and voluntarily given

Oh goodness, this one was wonderful!

After reading the first book in the series ( Wilde in Love ) I was beyond anxious to find out what would happen in North and Diana's book. I am happy to report that it did not disappoint! (There are all kinds of teasers for their story in book one, though if you haven't read it yet, you do find out all the important details here, so no worries. Seriously, though, read the first book too--this series is so good, y'all! I can't tell you how glad I am that the head of the family is so...fecund ;) So many more books to look forward to...)

Even though North and Diana were engaged for a good portion of the first book, it turns out that neither of them really knew the other person very well. They didn't know each other at all, really--so watching them get reacquainted here is nothing short of delicious.

As in book one, so many scenes that have more than one Wilde family member in them were laugh-out-loud funny. The youngest Wilde sibling, Artie (short for Artemisa), is absolutely delightful, whether she's spending time with Diana, Godfrey (Diana's nephew), Livinia (Diana's cousin), North, or her mother Ophelia. When the Duke and his wife bring back many of North's younger siblings to welcome him home--expect (hilarious) mayhem. Once again, scandalous Lord Wilde prints will be used for creative purposes. And don't even get me started on the Wilde family trip to the Beetle & Cheese...OMG :)

For much of the book, it was hard to see how North and Diana would be able to end up together. Even though they clearly had fantastic chemistry and truly cared for each other, she really didn't want to be a duchess, and he is next in line for the title. Can this relationship be saved? (Spoiler: yes, of course; it's an Eloisa James book!)

A word of warning: the final chapter will practically have you salivating for the next book in the series ( Born to Be Wilde ), but you'll have to wait until the end of July to read it. I'm sure Ms. James will make it worth the wait, though!

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

I've been waiting impatiently for this book ever since finishing Wilde in Love. I loved that book and its main characters, but Diana and North captured my attention, too. How could she run off like that? And the shock when he discovered her with a child! I couldn't wait to get my hands on this and see how it all worked out.
My favorite thing about this book was that North and Diana spend a lot of time together. They have a good deal of conversational ground to cover due to their history, but they keep veering off that history and onto other topics. We witness them getting to know each other without all the falseness from before. They are funny and tender together, and I kept reading their conversations twice because I enjoyed them so much. They discover how much they have in common, and they discover what a great team they make together. There is just one problem left: North is going to be a duke, and Diana knows that she would be miserable as a duchess. The solution to that is truly inspired.
I also enjoyed the secondary characters. Lady Knowe, North's aunt, has a big role in this one, and she is hilarious. The children Diana works with, Artie and Godfrey, are adorable. North's sisters have bit parts, too, and I can't wait to learn more about them over time. Lavinia is also in this book, and we get the set-up for her story next. It's going to be a doozy, I think.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. My honest opinion is that this was absolutely worth the wait. It was even better than I had hoped. In fact, I'm having a hard time writing this review because I keep looking at parts I highlighted and getting sucked into reading the book again. This one definitely goes on the keeper shelf.

Too Wilde to Wed is the second installment of Eloisa James' Wildes of Lindow Castle series, featuring the very large and entertaining Wilde family. I have read the earlier book, Wilde in Love, but I think you can get by reading this one as a standalone if absolutely necessary (though you will miss some of the backstory).

Our hero in this story is Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde (a/k/a North), heir to the dukedom. After being jilted by his fiance and coming to an incorrect assumption, North enlisted in the royal army and went off to fight the Revolutionary War in the Colonies. In the first book, North had turned himself into a ridiculous dandy wearing saffron pantaloons and coats embroidered with cherries, all to gain the attention of a woman. But North has returned from the war and different, and less pretentious man. I really liked him as a hero. He was patient and understanding, and had a touch of vulnerability in dealing with his time in the war. He treated our heroine exceedingly well, but he wasn't the "nice guy that finishes last." North could steam up the sheets and steamroll his way when the situation really warranted it.

Our heroine is Miss Diana Belgrave, formerly a diamond of the first water despite her inauspicious grandparentage. We saw her in Wilde in Love wearing ridiculously tall coiffures and dazzling dresses, but not showing much personality. It was quite a surprise that she would jilt a duke, but we learn that she did so in order to care for a child. Diana was quite altruistic, and she has turned a complete 180 degrees personality-wise. She is now outspoken, messy, and displaying her own coppery red tresses and freckles. Unfortunately, she was not at all prepared for a life of self-sufficiency - she can't do math or make change (among other things). She begins the book deceiving a large number of people without thought to the consequences, but I'm happy to report that it didn't last too long as deception is one of my pet peeves in romance. I was a little disappointed in her reluctance when it came to our hero, and wished she would have come to her senses sooner. But you have to admire a girl who gives up a life of comfort to care for someone less fortunate.

The relationship between North and Diana was just a little hot and cold. They made great friends and I loved how she helped him cope with the tragedies he experienced. I thought they had great chemistry and it was clear they cared for one another... which is why Diana's reluctance bothered me. I definitely did not predict the outcome that finally solidify the relationship.

I continue to like all of the secondary characters. Lady Knowe, the lovable aunt, wasn't as zany in this installment. I feel like she was more of a "character" in the previous book. Based on happenings in this story, I feel like we will see Lavinia as the next heroine, and she promises to be entertaining.

I recommend this story to fans of Eloisa James, second-chance and historical romance. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Avon.

I had a lot of fun reading Too Wilde to Wed. Seriously, a lot of fun. So, we have Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde, better known as North as his friends. Who was after his perfect future duchess, and thought he found her in Miss Diana Belgrave. However, she disappears from his life one night. He goes on a hunt for her, but later finds she has a child. He left to pursue a military career without even asking any question just assuming the worst.

Diana is the most beautiful and sought after debutant, but she makes an error in judgement, and doesn't tell North what she was doing. Actually she didn't think he would understand, so she thought it would be better for her to let him think the worst of her.

Two wrongs don't make a right, and communication is the key. So, everyone assumes the worst of North when he comes back to England. However, his family knows the actual true. Now that he has come back he finds Diana absolutely delightful even if she makes a terrible governess. Diana is even willing to sacrifice her happiness in order for North to find true happiness. What would make North truly happy is having Diana as his future Duchess.

Again, I had a lot a fun with North and Diana. Diana tries so hard to keep North at arms-length, after all it's not proper for him to go after a governess. North sees that Diana is the perfect girl for him. I couldn't put this story down, and I can't wait to see wait next in these Wilde books.

Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss

Another gorgeous story! Too Wilde To Wed bears Eloisa James’ trademark wit, moments of humour and an exposé of the class differences in eighteenth century England that are all part of a novel that makes for both entertaining and compelling reading.
This friends to lovers story is a real page turner. North and Diana are clearly perfect for each other if they would only acknowledge that fact, but put their mutual attraction aside and there is more than enough going on with minor characters to ensure that the story keeps on ticking.
I loved the way that Diana’s changed circumstances allowed her to relax and reveal her real self without fear of recrimination, and that this change allowed North to see the woman behind the painted mask that he’d first met. Of course their story has lumps and bumps along the way, but that was what made this story so compelling for me. One minute I was smiling or silently chuckling to myself and the next I was holding my breath and hoping that some sort of solution would present itself to them.
As the second in the series this story ties in nicely though it also stands alone well. For light, feel-good reading regardless of whether you like historicals or contemporary, the characters and the pace of this story make it a perfect choice.

I wanted to like this book. Eloisa James has been one of my favorite authors for many years. So I picked up the book for a recent trip and was excited to settle into my beach chair for a good read. But alas it turned out to be a hot mess. Where do I start? The premise was good. Lord "North" Wilde is in love with Miss Belgrave. They get engaged, but complications arise. The plot had sooo much promise. But the author squandered it in silly plots, characters who behave in illogical and idiotic ways, and a hero and heroine who have zero chemistry. Has there ever been a more stupid heroine? The hero is obviously massively in love with her. So when her sister dies and leaves her with an illegitimate child, what does our heroine do? Why instead of asking her perfectly lovely fiancé, who happens to be a future duke, she runs away for reasons too ridiculous to go into. Has there ever been a more unbelievable cast of characters as North's family. Has there ever been a more contrived plot? Has there ever been a once-excellent author who needs to take a long sabbatical to get her mojo back?

I love this couple. I love the entire Wilde family. In fact, not since Julia Quinn's Bridgertons have I fallen in love with a family so quickly or completely. I've read Diana and North's story twice and already I'm eager to go back to the first page and begin again. I love the humor, the witty banter, the sparks that fly when North and Diana go toe to toe, and the sweetness that flows between them in the quiet moments of the darkest hours of the night. I enjoyed their growth, both individually and as a couple, a process that enables them to better understand - and accept - one another as well as themselves. I was in their corner, cheering for a happy ending, though I had no idea how James would pull it off. In the end, the solution, so simple, really, and from such an unexpected source, was perfection. Though I'm no fan of roller coasters (the real ones), this book coaster, filled with peaks and valleys, laughter and heartache, love and acceptance, is well worth the ride.

If you're in the mood for a feel-good romance that will tickle your funny bone, touch your heart, and, ultimately, wrap you up in a warm, loving hug, look no further than Too Wilde to Wed.

When North Wilde, future Duke of Lindlaw, tracks down his runaway fiancé and finds her with an infant, he joins the military and sets off for America. Diana Belgrade, the errant fiancé, ends up working as a governess in the present Duke’s household bringing her nephew with her.
Diana met North after her sister’s death and was coerced by her mother to do anything she could to become his bride. She believed he loved the fake Diana she presented not realizing he had fallen for her before that and changed his persona to go with her very elegant presentation.
When the two meet again after 2 years and very educating life experiences, they start to be honest with each other and discover their true feelings.
I loved all the twists and turns in this book, the secrets, the way they are drawn to each other despite each feeling that they can’t be right together. The large Wilde family does its best to smooth the way for them without being obvious. I enjoyed the way North and Diane slowly reveal the truths about their feelings and the incredible chemistry between them. There is even a tease about what might be a possible future couple. Great book....great series!

Delightful and romantic!
Too Wilde to Wed is the second book in the Wilde of Lindow Castle series by Eloisa Jmaes. I really enjoyed reading Diana and North's love story. I have been waiting for this book for the past few months since Eloisa James introduced Diana and North in the first book in the series and Diana jilted North.
Diana never meant to hurt or broke North's heart and reputation, but in her situation she couldn't think clearly and made a rush decision and jilted North.
Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde-known as North has been engaged and in love with his betroth, Diana, until she jilted him and he found her with a child two years ago. He left the England and joined the army. Now he returns from war to find that his former finance is his sister governess and his reputation is ruined. Now a future Duke and Governess living in the same castle.................
Eloisa James is one of my favorite authors, her writing is wonderful, witty and adorable.
I love her new series, (of course I love everything she writes) and can't wait for her next book in the series.
Thank you Eloisa James for writing amazing books!

Four plus. Absolutely delightful. Lots of meaningful conversations between North and Diana clearing up misunderstandings of the past and allowing them to get to know one another better. I love that North fell for Diana because of her laughter. I love that Diana takes care of North as no one else can.

I particularly liked the seamless inclusion of the household staff in the story in a way that is natural a la Downton Abbey. Prism, Mabel, even Boodle provide not only comic relief, but also bring realism to this fictional work.

As always with EJ’s books, Too Wilde to Wed has a cast of hundreds, all of them with distinct personalities. The kids Artie and Godfrey especially, are adorable. Ms. James is hard on the mothers, though - Mrs. Belgrave and Lady Gray will not win any Mother-of-the-Year awards.

This series is turning out to be quite enjoyable. I’m looking forward to Lavinia and Parth’s romance in Born to be Wilde.

Once again Eloisa James has created a masterpiece of romance, lost love and fun. When Diana Belgrave ran away from her betrothed (Lord Roland Wilde aka North) she broke his heart. In Wilde in Love, North went after her and found her in a small cottage with a baby that wasn't his. Now, Diane is back as a governess for her nephew and the youngest Wilde, Lady Artemesia. North has been fighting in America but now he's back and the two once again come face to face.
Ms James writes witty dialogue for interesting characters that you can't help but love. Diana and North struggle to fight their feelings for each other. Can they find a way to be together?
In addition to North and Diana we are brought into the Wilde family and can only anticipate future books featuring other brothers and sisters in this amazing family.
I received a free advanced copy of this book.

The book plot was even better and deeper than the book blurb suggested. It had two great main characters, North and Diana.
It was amusing when they first met that it comes out later that they both were kind of playing a part. Well, Diana was coerced into it by her mother. Her evil mother. Yes, you heard me right not her evil step-mother" but her very own mother. Her mother was always putting Diana down about everything. No wonder she felt like she could never do anything right. North was also playing the part of a stiff dandy because he thought that was the only way to get her attention. Be as fashionable as she was. He fell for her from the very first meeting, her laugh captivated him. And it wasn't until later that the true people that they were showed up. That would be when North returns from the war and everything hits the fan. Well, kind of. They find each other much changed but it seems that in some ways it made them better.
There were good secondary people in the story and North's family were such good people. They actually were very close to each other and watched each other's back. They even were so fond of Diana and even though she reminded me that she worked for them, they saw her as family.
The children were a delight in their differences. Artie was the nickname for North's youngest sister because her real name was a mouthful (Artemisia). She was every inch of the unique, won't fit into the world's mold, born duchess in waiting very young little girl. Godfrey is the little boy that Diana sacrificed so much for and everyone accepted her little boy into the family. Not only accepted but welcomed.

This book did have plenty of emotions, some coming from North's inability to sleep well or even eat well. He was trying to overcome the horrors of war. There are plenty of secrets and other emotions to the story as well. A friendship does develop between North and Diana and it was very charming.

The only down side I can think of is that for a while there was a bit of a drag in the story as Diana dug her feet in about ever becoming a Duchess. Not even North's Duchess, she just knew she wouldn't be good at it.

There is a H.E.A. for the North and Diana as well as a very satisfying Epilogue.

At the end of the book Wilde in Love, Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde, otherwise known as North, was engaged to be married to Miss Diana Belgrave. He had completely redone his wardrobe to dress in ridiculous clothes that some would consider high fashion just to capture Diana's eye because she was considered the most fashionably dressed woman of the ton. While engaged she always seemed to be trying to escape him, but they shared a kiss that sent sparks flying. Then she mysteriously left without a note, not even taking her clothing and jewelry, and the engagement was broken off. He searched high and low for her and finally found her in a cottage with a child. He left angry before she could say anything and bought a commision in the military and went off to fight in the war with the colonies in America.

Now it's 1780 and he's coming home and everyone's worried because Diana's been living all this time in Lindow Castle as a governess to the children and a nanny to Artie the toddler while also taking care of Godfrey who is her nephew and at the age of almost four doesn't speak. When Aunt Knowe went and found her and demanded that she come and live with them, Diana let them think that the child was North's and insisted that she earn her way as a governess for the children and a nanny for Artie the Duchess's toddler. The ton believes that North ravished or raped Diana and left her with a child and that she is forced to work as a nanny.

When North is apprised of the situation he is determined to fix it by finding a relative of either hers or Godfrey's to come and help her. Maybe even set her up in a cottage somewhere with Godfrey and take care of her himself. He finds that he is still in love with Diana and is determined to get her to marry him, but Diana does not want to be a Duchess and North is next in line to become Duke when his father dies. North does not want to be Duke. It was supposed to be his older brother Horatius, but he died. Diana is the kind of person who rushes in and does things and says things before thinking. She does not know how to make change and she hates fancy parties and such. She keeps telling him that she would make a lousy Duchess and more to the point she would hate being one so she refuses his offer of marriage.

What are the two of them to do? North has been haunted by what he saw during the war and Diana has been his salve helping him to eat and sleep again when he is with her. How will he manage without her? Will Diana give in and decide to become North's Duchess after all? Or will she take the cottage he will offer her? And what of Godfrey's relatives? Diana is a delight and keeps things lively with her antics. North is different in this book. He is less stiff and formal and sexier. You feel for the man who is still suffering from the war. This is such a great series. These books really seem to get better as you go along. I really can't wait to read the next one, Wilde For You when it comes out. It promises to be the best one yet. I really loved this book and I cannot recommend it enough.

Too Wilde to Wed by Eloisa James is book Two in The Wildes of Lindow Castle series. This is the story of Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde 'North' and Diana Belgrave. I have read the previous book (and Loved it) but feel this is a standalone book although the previous book did do some set up for this one.
North and Diana had been engaged to be married but she made a hasty decision that had her breaking things off with North. North brokenhearted left but now he is back only to learn that his reputation is taking a hit due to those decisions. But the one things that hasn't changed is how they both feel about each other. Will this time be their chance to be together?
Really enjoyed this book and the situations that came about with Diana.
Can't wait for more from Ms. James!!

Too Wilde to Wed was my first Eloisa James read and definitely not the last. I knew I’d love the story the moment I saw the blurb. A second chance romance between one of the most eligible bachelors in England and the woman who jilted him? I am here for it! There’s some great dynamic between the hero and heroine, the heroine and her charges, the hero and his family, and many more.

When Miss Diana Belgrave jilts her fiancé Lord Rolan Northbirdge Wilde out of nowhere, North goes off to war to forget her. Two years later, he comes back, a different man than he was before he left, and is surprised to see the very woman who left him living under his roof. To make things more interesting, she is employed as a governess of his sibling and has unwittingly spread rumors about him, giving the ton enough reason to believe North is ‘too wild to wed’.

He doesn’t care about his reputation, not really, and he shouldn’t care about Diana living in Lindow Castle. But she left him without reason, and he at least deserves an explanation. After that, he’ll leave her be. Besides, even if he pursues her again, nothing can come out of it. Not with Diana’s reputation in tatters.

But when the heart wants what it wants, they can’t really do anything to stop it.

This is such a romantic story! It was interesting to see their perspectives of the past and present, and to see what happened to make Diana leave North. I love second chance romances, so this one was a winner. From pretenses and false airs to dropping their facades, it was definitely a treat to watch them find love with each other again.

I have to admit Diana frustrated me at times—especially when she did things without thinking of the consequences, but other than that, I liked her enough. She did a selfless act to protect a person she loves, even if it was at her expense. It showed how strong she was and loyal to the people most important to her. Her relationship with her charges Artie and Godfrey was adorable, too!

North is wonderful. He made me swoon so much! The war obviously changed him from a dandy to a man who couldn’t care one wit about his appearance, but his feelings for Diana and his love for his family was still there. He’s intense, relentless in his pursuit of Diana, and very much in love with her. I want someone to love me like North loves Diana!

The dynamic of the Wilde family was a delight to see, and I’m excited to read the first and third book in the series. This is a standalone, but I would recommend reading the first one first as Too Wilde to Wed makes references to what I can assume happens in the first book. Again, it’s not necessary to read the first book, but hey, it sounds wonderful anyway so read away!

Tropes: Second Chance, Peers
POV: Third Person, Female POV
Standalone: Yes

Looking for fun? A wonderful romance? A high-caliber, well written tale filled with swoon-worthy moments sprinkled with smiles, chuckles and an epilogue that ties it all together with sunshine filled perfection? Look no further than Too Wilde to Wed.

Ms. James’ Wilde family is filled with lovable rascals who can’t seem to stay away from scandals. In this particular novel, the scandal is based on assumptions, good intentions and noble actions, all of which stem from one sad incident. Only one person knows the full scope of the situation and she’s not telling.

The romance between North and Diana was thoroughly enjoyable. I loved their dialogue, both internal and external, their personalities and their temperaments. I particularly enjoyed watching them fall in love with each other, again, this time for all the right reasons. When I read the scene with Boodle, the valet, and his choice of … colors and styles that he expected North to wear, I couldn’t help but snicker. I prefer a man to look like a man. When North came back from the war, he refused to suffer wearing ‘high fashion’ any longer. Thank goodness. What followed was deliciously sexy and delightful.

Poor Diana. She’s eaten up with guilt, duty and trauma from being manipulated and ridiculed by her mother. In spite of those emotional burdens, she loves kids, is a hard worker and accepts what she expects to be her lot in life. Little does she know, there’s a certain someone who knows a lot more than they’re letting on. In a way, I get the impression that there’s a nod to Cinderella in this tale and it works wonderfully.

In Wilde in Love, there was a heroic skunk and I was tickled that there was an honorable mention in this book. In fact, there were some specific references that make me wonder if this novel could be considered a standalone read. I like to think so. I guess it’s because North and Diana were the main focus. Even so, the effect of the secondary characters seemed more profound because I had read the previous book and I had a sense of ‘homecoming’ especially when I was surrounded by the Wilde clan. They’re a fun, loud and loving family.

Readers who enjoy seeing lovers express their passion in the physical sense will have ample opportunity to see North and Diana in action. What shocked me the most was how Diana came to know as much as she did, intellectually speaking, and from whom. I didn’t see that coming.

As I said in the beginning, there is a satisfying epilogue that wraps it all up in the end but Ms. James also delivers an irresistible lure – Lavinia’s discovery. After that scene, the author has me wrapped around her literary finger and I’m enthusiastically eager for the next novel. This is going to be awesome!

So, in conclusion, Too Wilde to Wed is a must read. There’s much to adore in this novel and I’m delighted to share my enthusiasm with other fans. It’s an awesome romance!

originally posted at long and short reviews

Though I enjoyed the romance in the first book of this series, it was almost overshadowed by my interest in the secondary couple, the hero’s brother and his betrothed. So I was more than excited to start this book and read their full story.

North, heir to the Dukedom, and Diana were engaged in book one, but it seemed that she was far less enamored of the match than he was. In fact, she ran away and jilted him before that book was done. It ended with him finding her hidden away in a cottage with a crying baby. All signs pointed to her having given birth, but we learn quickly that the child actually was a bastard born of her deceased sister. Diana refuses to let the baby grow up in an orphanage, so she has taken responsibility for him.

Anyway, North disappears for a while and goes off to fight in the American revolution. When he returns, he discovers that she is now living in his family home, raising the baby and acting as a governess to his niece. Society believes the child she brought with her is his. But rather than lashing out, he is surprisingly magnanimous. It’s sets the stage for us to see his true character.

I liked North a lot. Especially once we learn how he really turned himself inside out to woo Diana in the first place. He loved her then, even though he really barely knew her. And as he gets to know her true character here, he loves her all the more. Add to that, the poor guy is suffering from the effects of the war. He just wants the comfort that Diana can provide.

Diana, on the other hand? Eh. I can appreciate her desire to care for her nephew. And I can even understand doing whatever it takes in order to protect him. She was truly trapped into her betrothal, so guess I understand her early behaviors. But later? When she really starts to fall for North, the reasons they could not be together did not ring true. It basically boils down to her repetitive mantra that she did not want to be a duchess. It was hard to sympathize. It’s not like he was asking her to live in a hovel or cut off her arm. The guy was asking her to marry him over and over again and she kept saying no. And the reason was so, so, so flimsy.

That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy the book. I did. It’s just that Diana frustrated me in the second half. There was a really good tension between her and North. And there were ample sexy times, which I thought were well done, even as I was a bit surprised with how easily she gave up her virginity and how easily he took it. After all, her sister’s illegitimate child seemed like a pretty big warning sign. And he was very worried about doing right by her.

Despite a kind of silly foray into Diana trying life as a barmaid, the ending does satisfy. And I am, again, excited for the next couple, no doubt Lavina and her nemesis. I will be there to check out their story as well.

Rating: B

It doesn't matter what century you are in - being jilted in love will leave a bad taste in your mouth.  North wasn't absolutely sure he was necessarily ready for marriage but when his engagement was called off it gave him the perfect opportunity to serve his country.  Fast forward two years later and he gets the surprise of his life to find his ex-fiance' living - and more importantly working! - in his family home.  Neither one of them is prepared for Diana to continue living under the same roof as North.  They quickly realize that neither of them were completely true to themselves when they were betrothed and they might actually enjoy each other's company. 

This was the first book I read by Eloisa James but I can promise you it will not be the last.  I wish I had read the previous Wilde book in this series because I just loved so much about this family and their dynamic.  The age range between the siblings is quite large but that makes sense when the duke is on his third child bearing wife.  I will be avidly waiting on future Wilde sibling books.  This is a fairly long book - over 350 pages - but I was able to read through it quickly.  The pacing seems steady, if a little fast; overall this is a book I was able to read through within a day.  I enjoy most historical romances - I haven't quite determined if there is a time period that I don't like reading about - but I have to admit that I kept getting thrown off by the talk of the powdered wigs and face paint; I wouldn't say it took away from the story since it seemed to be time accurate, but it's hard to picture this handsome Duke with a powdered wig on.  However, the romance between the characters was realistic - you could feel the tension from the first time they reconnected & their relationship growth was attention grabbing.  Also the family of Wildes really helped add to the story and I can't wait to read more of them.  

**4 stars - I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.

ARC provided by Edelweiss and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

You never have enough time with the people you love! Out of all the books, Eloisa James has written, this is perhaps the one I can personally connect to the most. Sadly because I experienced the death of a sister growing up. I know how devastating that can be for the whole family. I could identify with Diana and North in terms of what they and their families went through. I also come from a large family being the oldest of eight. The loss of a child or a sibling is something you never get over and has a lasting impact on your life.
Diana is stunned by the loss of her sister and North by his experience in the war along with having to take the place of his older brother. Their struggles thankfully bring them together for a happy ever after. Time spent with those we love is precious. Thank you, Eloisa James, for this beautiful book.

Romance is the genre I read when I need to escape for a while. And Eloisa James is one of my favorite authors that helps take me to the place where I need to go. I love her strong heroines and her dashing heroes. I love that even though her romances are steamy, there's also an interesting storyline to go with it.

Lord Roland Northbridge Wilde (aka North) was jilted by Diana Belgrave. Confused and hurt, he flees the country and doesn't return for two years. When he does return, he finds he has quite the reputation and his ex-fiance is now employed as the governess of Lindow Castle.

Diana had never really wanted to be a Lady. She never meant to break North's heart. But when she was called upon to save a child, she knew that she'd have to give up North to do so. Diana is determined to make the best possible life for herself and the child. And if North's family assumes he's the father, well, then, she'll just have to play along for the sake of the child.

Seeing Diana again brings back all the mistakes he made with her. He's determined to see her right. Diana is still as attracted to him as she ever was. But she still doesn't want to be his Lady. Diana is proud and wants to make her own way. North is smitten and wants to make her his.

And so the story goes. Flirting, gossip, mystery, intrigue, peacocks, meddling mamas, and the list goes on. James transports you to a castle where you'll fall in love. I loved most of the story. I say most because at times it felt as if the storyline were a little too modern. Especially concerning Diana. I love her plucky spirit, but I had a hard time accepting some of the plot.

Overall, it's a great book to read over a rainy weekend, a trip to the beach, or when you need a reading vacation. I love Eloisa James and will continue with this series.

I have read my last book in the Wilde series. I had to push myself to finish the last one, and this one was much worse. The ending was so absurd that I simply stopped reading it with a handful of pages left. She can’t bear to be a duchess? Renounce his title really?

Sorry similar to what someone else said - I should stop reading Eloisa James. I too read her because some of her first books were so good I was totally addicted. I keep hoping for another good series from her and then this comes out.

I could not stay engaged with the story - it seemed fragmented and the first few chapters were just strange. Maybe its because I had not the read the first book in this series but generally I've never had this problem with some of her earlier series.

I won a signed ARC of this book from the author, and thoroughly enjoyed it! I am new to the historical romance category and am impressed by the research that must be done to describe an 18th Century setting, including the details of family life, the rules of society and the elaborate costuming of the characters. This story features interesting, strong willed characters who were first introduced in Wilde in Love, the first in the series. The scene is set when a young woman breaks her engagement with heir of a duchy at the end of that book. The story resumes several years later when the couple meets again, their true story is revealed and all ends well. The characters are great fun and so is the book. I highly recommend this series— even if you don’t think you’re interested in historical romance!

I enjoyed this book and I am so excited about this new series! I love the Wildes, I love Lindow Castle, and I love the Georgian era setting. I do believe that this may not have been as enjoyable as a standalone since this is so connected to the first book in the series and it was helpful and delightful to know the backstory and characters. Things have been set up in the first two books for the next, which I have preordered and can't wait to read!

Lord Roland Wilde (North) is shocked when Diana Belgrave, his betrothed, disappears. He finds her living in a small house but leaves when he hears a baby’s cry. He thinks she has found someone else but he is in love with her and has been since he first saw her. He bought a commission and headed to the colonies to fight for England. Several years later, he has returned and is shocked to find Diana living in his family’s home as the governess. Then he hears rumors that the young boy living with her is his son. He still loves her and wants to marry her but she tells him she will not be his duchess. He is determined he will not give her up.

Eloisa James is one of my top go-to authors and I try to read her books as soon as I can. I received an electronic copy to read and give an honest review.
This is one of the best books I've read as it made me laugh and almost cry and at times I wanted to knock some sense into both North and Diana but I knew it probably wouldn't work.
The characters were well written as was the story itself. I've pre-ordered the next book in the series and have ordered a print copy of this one to add to my keeper shelf along with the first story in the series.

Trudging disappointment dropped and picked up many times. A long, loong way to the end.
H was not too bad and felt sorry for him. He was "in love" with a nincompoop! He should have dumped her and moved on.
James knows how to use words, but the numerous characters require a cheat sheet--even trying to remember the servants.
Serious second thoughts about continuing with James novels.

I usually like Eloisa James books, but this one was just so-so for me. I might not have been in the mood for it maybe. Plus, I didn't realize that it was second in the series or I wouldn't have started with this one. It was completely a stand alone book, and don't get me wrong it can be read without reading the first book. However, I'm kinda OCD when it comes to series. It drives me made to not start with the first book and go from there.
I have the first book, but I'm not sure if it's the right time for this series and me right now though.

ARC provided by Edelweiss and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Too Wilde to Wed was just as wonderful as I expected!! I couldn’t wait to read this book and it definitely didn’t disappoint!! The first book in the series, Wilde in Love, set the stage for North and Diana’s love story. One of my favorite types of book features a governess. I enjoy the funny little babies in the nursery and out. One of my favorite things about this book is that North first fell in love with Diana because of her joyful laughter. It’s great how North and Diana finally have several conversations throughout the book that clear up misunderstandings. I look forward to Parth and Lavinia’s story in Born to be Wilde!!

I confess I wasn't a fan of Book #1, but this book has depth, heart, and passion. North, future Duke of Lindow, returns home from the war in the Colonies to find Diana, his former fiancee, working as a governess in his father's home. He remembers her as the cold, remote, fashion icon who jilted him. Now she is warm and genuine in her worn gowns with children surrounding her, an entirely different person. This is a book about discovery, forgiveness, and the rewards of being yourself, not what others want you to be. I loved it.

I love North! I throughly enjoyed Alaric and Willa but Diana and North are something special. They both loved each other but were afraid to show it and now have to fight their way back to each other without asking the other to sacrifice who they are.
Artie and Godfrey are absolutely adorable and that Fitzy!

So far, I am having a hard time with this series. I have loved many EJ books, but the Wilde stories are falling kind of flat for me. Diana was not very likeable because I didn't understand her actions and thoughts regarding North. I was not a fan of North in the first book, but I did like him in this book. As a couple, they did not engage me. I skipped through the last third of the book because I just did not care what was going on with them. There was a lack of spark.

I feel that I gave it a fair shot, the first few chapters or so. In the hands of a better writer the premise might have promise. It's different, might be refreshing, but nope. I found the book so overwritten that I couldn't take it anymore. What should have been compelling conversations were just tedious. A kudo for the autistic nephew but nothing to keep me reading just to see how he turned out.

I read TOO WILDE TO WED in one day. I knew it would have a perfect ending but to get there was an adventure. It was different enough that I didn't jump ahead. I wanted to know what all the dialogue was. I look forward to the next Wilde book.

I enjoyed reading about North and Diana. A lot of historical romances have similar plots. This one had an interesting twist to it. This is the first book in this series that I have read. I don't think that took away from my enjoyment, but I probably would have liked reading about the other characters if I had read the series.

I loved Diana and North. They've got a bit of the star-crossed lovers things going on, and I'm not sure if I want to call this friends to lovers or not... It kind of defies my set categories, haha. Too Wilde to Wed is a historical romance set in Georgian era England, which I don't normally like as much as I love Regency romances (I'm just not into all the lace and patches and powdered wigs... *shudder*) but for whatever reason I like this period when Eloisa writes it. It helps that it's set mostly in a country manor, so there isn't as much call for all the rigmarole that would be involved were it to take place in London during the Season.

North is by far and away my favorite character of this novel. I love his quiet strength and determination, and how much he loves his family. The entire Wilde clan is just lovely, and I definitely need to go back and read the first book in the series (which apparently involves a pet skunk!) Diana is also a wonderful character that I felt was somewhat relatable in that she is a fish out of water, and is searching for who she is and where she belongs. I do wish more of the story had focused on Diana's self-discovery and development, as she felt a little wishy-washy to me and not as fully fleshed out as I wish she would have been. Then again, she's a young woman who has always been pampered and taken care of who is suddenly cast out on her own with no real life skills, so maybe that makes sense for her characters.

Several of the side characters are really enjoyable, especially Aunt Knowe (whom I totally want to be when I grow up) and Prism, as well as Godfrey and Artie (whom I expect to have their own story later in the series, because that's how Eloisa rolls).

I LOVE the way the story unfolds, and the way North and Diana's relationship grows and flourishes once they're both allowed to be themselves, rather than a couple of dressed up society puppets. My heart broke for North (several times) but I can't really go into why without spoiling it for you, so I will just say that there were a few spots that had me tearing up and my heart physically aching for North, especially as he comes to some difficult realizations about love and what it means to truly love someone more than your own desires and needs.

This is the second book in the series The Wildes of Lindow Castle, and while it can be read as a stand alone, there's something to be gained from reading the first book, Wilde in Love. I read Too Wilde to Wed first and there are some spoilers for the first book, as well as a fair amount of lead up to what I suppose will be the third book. Like Eloisa's Desperate Duchesses series, this one might be best read in order to get the full experience. That being said, I did read this one as a stand alone and got along perfectly well without having read the first book, so it CAN be read as a stand alone. There is also some lead up to Lavinia and Parth's story, which is the next in the series and I can NOT wait to read it!

As always - I love Eloisa James, almost the only author of which I willingly buy books! (the rest are loaned from the library)
I never really found myself bored and I definitely look forward to more of this series!

I loved it from first page to last! Diana and North belong together, but they both had to decide it was right to love and marry each other. So many hurts resolved. A few tears and a happy ending. So perfect. And Lavinia is next!

I loved Diana and North. They've got a bit of the star-crossed lovers things going on, and I'm not sure if I want to call this friends to lovers or not... It kind of defies my set categories, haha. Too Wilde to Wed is a historical romance set in Georgian era England, which I don't normally like as much as I love Regency romances (I'm just not into all the lace and patches and powdered wigs... *shudder*) but for whatever reason I like this period when Eloisa writes it. It helps that it's set mostly in a country manor, so there isn't as much call for all the rigmarole that would be involved were it to take place in London during the Season.

North is by far and away my favorite character of this novel. I love his quiet strength and determination, and how much he loves his family. The entire Wilde clan is just lovely, and I definitely need to go back and read the first book in the series (which apparently involves a pet skunk!) Diana is also a wonderful character that I felt was somewhat relatable in that she is a fish out of water, and is searching for who she is and where she belongs. I do wish more of the story had focused on Diana's self-discovery and development, as she felt a little wishy-washy to me and not as fully fleshed out as I wish she would have been. Then again, she's a young woman who has always been pampered and taken care of who is suddenly cast out on her own with no real life skills, so maybe that makes sense for her characters.

Several of the side characters are really enjoyable, especially Aunt Knowe (whom I totally want to be when I grow up) and Prism, as well as Godfrey and Artie (whom I expect to have their own story later in the series, because that's how Eloisa rolls).

I LOVE the way the story unfolds, and the way North and Diana's relationship grows and flourishes once they're both allowed to be themselves, rather than a couple of dressed up society puppets. My heart broke for North (several times) but I can't really go into why without spoiling it for you, so I will just say that there were a few spots that had me tearing up and my heart physically aching for North, especially as he comes to some difficult realizations about love and what it means to truly love someone more than your own desires and needs.

This is the second book in the series The Wildes of Lindow Castle, and while it can be read as a stand alone, there's something to be gained from reading the first book, Wilde in Love. I read Too Wilde to Wed first and there are some spoilers for the first book, as well as a fair amount of lead up to what I suppose will be the third book. Like Eloisa's Desperate Duchesses series, this one might be best read in order to get the full experience. That being said, I did read this one as a stand alone and got along perfectly well without having read the first book, so it CAN be read as a stand alone. There is also some lead up to Lavinia and Parth's story, which is the next in the series and I can NOT wait to read it!

As always - I love Eloisa James, almost the only author of which I willingly buy books! (the rest are loaned from the library)
I never really found myself bored and I definitely look forward to more of this series!

I loved it from first page to last! Diana and North belong together, but they both had to decide it was right to love and marry each other. So many hurts resolved. A few tears and a happy ending. So perfect. And Lavinia is next!

Chapter 7 was the turning point, when Eloisa James started setting up the story line for her next book, and the plot was lost in this one.
It was almost like reading 2 different books. Neither one are very good.

Loved every page of this installment in the Wilde saga. The characters are fascinating, the storyline engrossing and the writing as always with Eloise at James is superb. It ended much too soon, but the next installment- Born to be Wilde is on the horizon. I’m waiting with bated breath.

I loved this. North and Diana so struggled to make an "unequal" relationship work. North came up with a resolution which I never even considered as a possibility. It was shocking, but in a good way. This book was an excellent example of Eloisa James's creativity and knowledge of the period. It also reminds us that, frequently, people are not who they seem on the surface.