The Heiress Effect

Brothers Sinister, Book 2

By: Courtney Milan

Narrated by: Rosalyn Landor

Miss Jane Fairfield can't do anything right. When she's in company, she always says the wrong thing - and rather too much of it. No matter how costly they are, her gowns fall on the unfortunate side of fashion. Even her immense dowry can't save her from being an object of derision.

And that's precisely what she wants. She'll do anything, even risk humiliation, if it means she can stay unmarried and keep her sister safe.

Mr. Oliver Marshall has to do everything right. He's the bastard son of a duke, raised in humble circumstances - and he intends to give voice and power to the common people. If he makes one false step, he'll never get the chance to accomplish anything. He doesn't need to come to the rescue of the wrong woman. He certainly doesn't need to fall in love with her. But there's something about the lovely, courageous Jane that he can't resist...even though it could mean the ruin of them both.

The Heiress Effect is the second full-length book in the Brothers Sinister series. It is preceded by The Governess Affair, a prequel novella, and The Duchess War, the first in the series. Each story stands alone, but those who prefer to read in order might want to start at the beginning.

©2013 Courtney Milan (P)2013 Courtney Milan

Funny and Endearing and Unique - good combo!

This story is about two rather unusual lovers, and some readers have been put-off slightly by the fact that the female heroine does not conform to the stylish image of ladies commonly found in romances. She seems to be rude and loud and completely unfashionable. But she has a reason for her behavior, which we come to understand, and her pairing with the conservative Oliver, who feels he has to be on good behavior because he is the bastard son of a Duke, actually makes for a totally inspiring as well as endearing love story. Oliver has lessons to learn about himself, as well as healing that needs to take place - a healing that only someone like Jane can provide. In fact the theme of the story is about having the courage to be true to the self, as Oliver eventually learns from his mother, his sister, and his aunt. The heroine Jane, a peacock not the wren that Oliver says he needs for his career, may never be fashionable in the mode of others, but she learns to use her pain and rejection as a springboard for growth, never showing any malice towards those who have hurt her. The love between the two is endearing because it is so unexpected, so difficult and their coming together shows how opposites can, indeed, attract. It is also a source of a great deal of humor. Like so many of Milan's stories, the heroines of these adventures are strong influences on their mates in a positive way. The prequel to this series, The Governess Affair, is definitely worth a read to enrich the understanding of Oliver, though the book stands entirely on its own.

Excellent story and life lesson

First, the narrator did a great job. Shout out and thank you! This story is so well written. I laughed out loud a few times. Second, the writer left no stone unturned when building her rich characters. Some are delightful, comical, independent, flamboyant and honorable. Others are sinister, manipulative, and pompous. Lastly treat yourself, follow the journey of Jane and Oliver. Often in life things are never what they appear to be. Thank you Courtney Milan.

Thoroughly enjoyed this book!

The books just keep on getting better and better! The second full-length book in The Brothers Sinister series is truly awesome. The H/h, Jane and Oliver, are so beautifully "mismatched" that I was so anxious to hear the end, I only got to bed in the wee hours. Jane, hiding a strong and intelligent woman behind disastrous fashion sense, loud and brash behavior to protect her sister, was such a treat. Then there's Oliver - ambitious, always prim and proper, trying to achieve the highest rung on the political ladder in order to fight for the "ordinary man". Sometimes I just wanted to kick him when he so stubbornly refused to face his feelings. But, read or listen to this incredible story yourself and get ready to be charmed. You will find humor and romance, passion and intrigue as well as deep love and emotion that will leave you glowing with satisfaction. Above average narration by Rosalyn Landor puts the cherry on top. Recommended!

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Weak hero, wonderful heroine, love rosalyn landor

There are sooo many books where the hero is wonderful and the heroine is difficult and annoying so maybe this one tries to even that score. Jane was amazing and brilliant and unique. Oliver - dull, bland, weak and undeserving of Jane. The book was extremely funny - there were many bits at which I did actually laugh out loud. I’d recommend the book as a light read with some political commentary and humor - the romance was weak thanks to the hero in my opinion.

Just keeps getting better

Rosalyn Landor is a phenomenal narrator. I’m captivated by her ease capturing the different characters’ voices. The story itself was fun to hear and fits effortlessly with the Brothers Sinister series. I’m excited for the next book!

Different and enjoyable

I really admire Courtney Milan’s ability to come up with unique and so finely well-woven storylines. I loved these characters too. But there was just a little something missing. I think I needed more interesting banter or interaction between the characters, just for the joy of it and also to convince me a little more of why they fell in love. I could see Jane’s attraction better than the hero’s.
I’m not sure.

Love it

Loved Jane. She was so cool and brave. I had loved Oliver from earlier stories but he was a bit of a poop on this one. I understand his issues and he wasn't a poop for long so it's okay. I cried for Jane when he broke her that last time. I probably would have been less forgiving than she was. Rosalyn Landor is simply the best. Great story.

so funny

I was in tears laughing at some parts. I am glad I stumbled upon this series.

It takes courage to be unique

Well written and well narrated, the Heiress Effect offers many complex and interesting characters struggling with issues of self identity, freedom, franchise, racism, sexism, healthcare and medical ethics, and civil rights. Characters are believable,and differing opinions are presented with subtly and comedy. Defining family and the rights and responsibilities of each family member in the care and support of one another provide recurring themes throughout novel. There is romance, humor, wit and poignancy, adding to the strength and depth of the series. However, there were times when it felt like two stories welled together (Jane and Oliver versus Emily and Anjan) and the ping-pong-ing between relationships diluted the power and pace of each story.. That being said, it is recommended.