The Ruin of a Rake is the story of two characters you may remember from The Lawrence Browne Affair: infamous scoundrel Lord Courtenay, and Julian Medlock (the persnickety brother of Lawrence’s scientist friend).
“Sebastian might use the well-worn opposites-attract trope to get her lovers together, but her mastery of conflict, tension, and timing along with flawless characterization and sexual attraction turn The Ruin of a Rake into a unique and entrancing romance that touches the heart deeper than most.” –Library Journal (starred review)
“…hugely entertaining; witty, sexy and poignant.” —All About Romance (desert island keeper)
To me this story comes as close as being a perfect romance as they go. Dear Author (recommended read)
Sebastian’s character-driven novel is sensuously romantic yet grounded in its approach to human relationships…[she] upends Regency romance conventions in this sensual, emotional, and upbeat take on the rake/wallflower trope.” —Kirkus Reviews
Rogue. Libertine. Rake. Lord Courtenay has been called many things and has never much cared. But after the publication of a salacious novel supposedly based on his exploits, he finds himself shunned from society. Unable to see his nephew, he is willing to do anything to improve his reputation, even if that means spending time with the most proper man in London.
Julian Medlock has spent years becoming the epitome of correct behavior. As far as he cares, if Courtenay finds himself in hot water, it’s his own fault for behaving so badly—and being so blasted irresistible. But when Julian’s sister asks him to rehabilitate Courtenay’s image, Julian is forced to spend time with the man he loathes—and lusts after—most.
As Courtenay begins to yearn for a love he fears he doesn’t deserve, Julian starts to understand how desire can drive a man to abandon all sense of propriety. But he has secrets he’s determined to keep, because if the truth came out, it would ruin everyone he loves. Together, they must decide what they’re willing to risk for love.
Content Warnings: MC has chronic illness, explicit sex scenes
Cat Sebastian 