Axel

The Jaded Gentlemen, Book 3

By: Grace Burrowes

Narrated by: James Langton

Length: 10 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

Axel Belmont, though a wealthy and much-respected botanist, occasionally takes a turn serving as magistrate in his rural corner of Oxfordshire. When the owner of a neighboring estate is the victim of a homicide, Axel initially suspects the man's much younger wife, Abigail Stoneleigh, of committing the crime.

But then Abby appears to be in harm's way, and Axel's investigation uncovers longstanding deceptions aimed at cheating her out of wealth and happiness. The solution to this deadly puzzle remains elusive, even as Axel captures Abby's heart and surrenders his own. Axel is a fine investigator, a devoted father, a brilliant scientist, (and an excellent kisser), but will he solve the mystery before the villain strikes again?

Contains mature themes.

©2015 Grace Burrowes (P)2017 Tantor

Good intertwining of romance and mystery

Enjoyable read. Likeable hero and heroine. Unusual villain and accomplice. Good narrator. Satisfying conclusion to story.

Okay

I was a bit disappointed because although it was a good plot, it was never really told very well. It wanted to be humorous but wasn’t really. It wanted to be naughty but it wasn’t. It did have a mystery that kept you guessing

Well done mystery and romance

Axel Belmont, botanist, widower, and magistrate, investigates the murder of Gregory Stoneleigh. He soon discovers that the late Mr. Stoneleigh was a nasty piece of work. In fear for Gregory's widow's life (she was being poisoned by someone), Axel moves Abigail Stoneleigh to the safety of his home, Candlewick, while his investigation continues into the life of her late husband. A deep mutual love grows between the widower and the widow. It is hamper by the on going murder investigation, neighborhood gossip, and Axel's ambition for a fellowship at Oxford University (mere fellows are not allowed to be married).

I enjoyed this book tremendously, especially the character of Axel Belmont. Alas, he a fictional character.

Characters

Clean funny romance. Characters and story are very original and the male characters are truly unique.

Great story

Found the narrator a little off-putting but still enjoyed the actual story. Despite knowing it would be a happily-ever-after it had me wondering just how that was going to happen.

Would definitely read more Grace Burrows - but might avoid the narrator in future.

Murder mystery with romance tacked on

The story took a long while to introduce characters and setting, causing me to stop it several times & go to other books before returning and finishing this novel. By the end, was reasonably good with interesting twists and characters. But a long time getting there. Very slow pacing.

I love this series.

And I love Axel.
And I love Abby.
And I love a good mystery.
And I loved the mystery’s ends … both of them.
And I loved the Happily Ever After of Axel and Abby.

I especially loved watching Abby gain her foothold on adulthood and selfhood which could only have happened with a man like Axel who values women for more attributes than those a man might find in bed. He wants her to grow into her own independence while she shows him she can be independent within the dependency of their relationship. You know they will be together at least 50 years, God willing.

Good read...a bit wordy in parts

it starts with a murder mystery, but then develops into a sweet romance. If you are a stickler for historic accuracy, you will roll your eyes at the conceit that a widow could move in with a bachelor under any circumstances and the plot is typical of this series - convoluted and more than a little contrived, but accepted on those terms, a very good read. The principle characters are well rounded, the sex steamy and the dialog witty when Burrowes does not venture off to rambling annoying speeches. I have listened to this book more than once, so I guess I didn't mind the speechifying that much. Narration is excellent.

The Best Yet!

Loved the characters, the plot, and the love story. The narration was great. The story ended with a bit of surprise.

Enjoyed every minute!

Axel and Abby’s romance is thoroughly entertaining. Passion. danger. doubt, then love. what more could you ask for? Served up with a healthy insight into why roses speak the language of love.