A Rake of His Own

Nicholas Boulton’s narration carries this audiobook with a mix of elegance and grit that perfectly suits Lancaster’s world. His voice for Prince Vale is deliciously haughty yet vulnerable in the right moments, making the fae prince’s redemption arc feel earned rather than forced. But where he truly shines is in Marius’ gruff, no-nonsense delivery—every muttered curse or dry remark lands with the perfect mix of irritation and reluctant fondness. The pacing is tight, though I found myself wishing Boulton leaned harder into the humor during the greenhouse scenes; the deadpan works, but a little more warmth early on could’ve made the emotional beats hit even harder. The story itself is a delight—Lancaster crafts a romance that’s equal parts enemies-to-lovers and fish-out-of-water, with Marius’ botanical expertise providing a grounding contrast to the fae court’s intrigue. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, even if Vale’s initial arrogance grated on me more than it should’ve. My biggest critique? The supporting cast feels underdeveloped, leaving some subplots (like the political maneuvering) feeling rushed. Still, by the final act, I was fully invested in Marius and Vale’s messy, magical future. This is a romance for readers who love their love stories spicy and their worldbuilding immersive, but it’s Boulton’s performance that turns it from great to unforgettable.