A NIGHT OWL REVIEWS BOOK REVIEW | Reviewed by: Danya
Phyllida and the Brotherhood of Philander is a delightful twist on the Regency romance genre. Andrew Carrington is every meddling mother’s dream catch for her daughter. This tall, darkly handsome, athletic, and wealthy heir to an earldom has just one drawback. He would rather woo his fellow gentlemen than simpering misses. But as heir, Andrew must carry on his family name. Thus, Phyllida Lewis enters the picture. This up-and-coming gothic authoress has no interest in marriage, but agrees to provide for her family. Neither planned on falling in love, much less adding another gentleman to the arrangement. Throw in spies, a gay gentlemen’s club, intrigue, and meddling friends and you have a story that will keep you laughing and reading.
As a long-time fan of Regencies, I was surprised when I first picked up this book. Hesitant at first, this rollicking romp quickly pulled me in. This is a fresh look at an established genre of story, giving it a new vibrancy and excitement. What could have been a tawdry and pornographic book has been crafted into a romantic homage to Jane Austen’s oft-crossed lovers and comedic misunderstandings. I look forward to Ann Herendeen’s next book.
Dec 18, 2008 | 9780061451362
5 = Rare - Top Pick | 4.5 = I Loved It - Top Pick | 4 = Good Solid Read
3.5 = Enjoyable | 3 Stars = OK - Needs a few changes | 2 Stars = It just didn't click / DNF
Book Blurb for Phyllida and the Brotherhood of Philander
The meddling mothers of the Regency would do anything to wed their daughters to Andrew Carrington, the wealthy, handsome, and athletic heir to an earldom. There is one problem, however. No woman in all England would suit the determined bachelor, for Andrew far prefers the company of men—at his table and in his bedroom.
But with privilege comes responsibility. Andrew must take a bride. And while Phyllida Lewis, the penniless, spirited, and curvaceous author of romantic novels, is not quite what his family had in mind, a marriage to her would enable Andrew to live his life as he pleases. The arrival of Matthew Thornby, the honorable and dashing son of a self-made baronet, into their cozy arrangement makes Andrew's happiness complete.
Yet a shrewd enemy is waiting in the wings, threatening to expose them all—an act that will surely lead to scandal and ruin.
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