How to Survive a Scandal by Samara Parish is actually the author’s debut novel and first in the Rebels with a
Cause. If I did not know this, I would never have guessed it. It was paced perfectly, the plot and characters were developed, and the writing was captivating. I was engaged in the story from the beginning, and it was a “cannot put down” type of book. The author pairing up two strangers who lead very different lives in society kept the story interesting and full of wit. I enjoyed seeing the two of them slowly get to know each other, start working together, and fall in love.
Lady Amelia, daughter of the Earl of Crofton, had been engaged to Edward, Duke of Wildeforde since she was 5 years old. She was a leading socialite and had been groomed her entire life to become a duchess. She hastily departs London to find herself in a snowstorm with a broken carriage. When she awakens, she is told her reputation is ruined and the duke will not marry her. She finds herself being forced to marry Benedict and live in the “backwaters” of Abingdale. Amelia realizes she is unprepared for her new life as a wife to a commoner. Her entire life she had been told her only worth was in the gentleman she would marry, and she was not sure where her place was in her new life.
Benedict Asterly never considered that rescuing Amelia would end with him having to marry her. He did not trust the aristocrats and Amelia was self-centered just like his mother was. His mother was the daughter of the Marquess of Harrington but fell in love with a footman and then abandoned him and his father for a more exciting life. Benedict has no need of wealth, titles, or society and wants to live a simple life working with his steam locomotives. He is working on a contract to help the entire village with jobs but marrying Amelia has his investors backing out of the deal. Also, all the political turmoil in the village is causing problems for his firm. His simple life is in danger and he must balance the problems of the people of the village with his need to cater to society to get the contract.
I loved seeing Amelia grow into herself. In the beginning, her character was self-centered, sarcastic, and mean. Her new life allowed her to find purpose and her worth by uses her organizing skills to help Benedict’s business. She discovers her “friends” are not truly her friends, and she does not want to go back to her old life of snobbery and nasty gossip. Benedict was not sure of his place in Amelia’s life. He feared he was not worthy of her and she would not want him and leave as his mother did. Benedict saw Amelia for who she really was and helped her become a better person. I loved the characters and cannot wait for the next book. Hopefully, we will learn about the history between Wildeforde and Fiona.
Book Info:
Publication: May 25, 2021 | Forever | Rebels with a Cause #1
In this whirlwind regency romance, a near-death experience leads to a marriage of convenience for two unsuspecting strangers, but will their unusual meeting lead them to true love?
Lady Amelia was raised to be the perfect duchess, accomplished in embroidery, floral arrangement, and managing a massive household. But when an innocent mistake forces her and the uncouth, untitled Benedict Asterly into a marriage of convenience, all her training appears to be for naught. Even worse, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to this man no finishing school could have prepared her for.
Benedict Asterly never dreamed saving Amelia’s life would lead to him being shackled to the hoity Society miss. Benedict was taught to distrust the aristocracy at a young age, so when news of his marriage endangers a business deal, Benedict is wary of Amelia’s offer to help. But his quick-witted, elegant bride defies all his expectations… and if he’s not careful, she’ll break down the walls around his guarded heart.
