Book Review: How to Survive a Scandal (Rebels with a Cause #1) by Samara Parish

This marriage of convenience story was so fun to read. I loved the fantastic banter between Amelia and Benedict and watching them come together. This was a great series starter from author Samara Parish and I'm looking forward to more.

How to Survive a Scandal (Rebels with a Cause #1) by Samara Parish

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.

4 out of 5 stars

How to Survive a Scandal was a refreshing and delightful read. It was incredibly entertaining right from the start. I loved the crazy situation Amelia and Benedict were in and the ups and downs of them getting to their happily ever after.

I adored Amelia and how completely out of her element she was. I love her internal struggle, battling against who she was raised to be and becoming a woman she truly liked and was proud of. She wasn't always easy to like but she was coming from a good place and she got there in the end. Benedict was such a good guy, determined and hardworking and so not about her ideals when she arrives. This creates a lot of friction and animosity which brings out really fantastic banter. I loved their interactions, fun scenes, and how they both challenged each other. I loved the moments when they start to soften and feelings grow. I thought there was a nice build to the chemistry and sexual tension between them though the heat factor was very low, all but one quick scene is off-page.

I liked the characters introduced and see the possibility for future stories. I enjoyed Benedict's sister Cassandra. She was a sweet addition. There were some villainous type characters in play and drama happening because of the politics between the classes and I enjoyed the conflict it all brought but, in the end, it didn’t feel like it was fleshed out enough and there wasn’t any real resolution. I felt like I was missing closure with those aspects.

I enjoyed the writing and the dual POVs. It was an engaging and charming story and I was hooked the entire time. This was a great series starter and a wonderful debut from Samara Parish. This was a sweet and fun story and just what I needed.

Complimentary copy received from Forever Romance.