The Viscount's Code

Reckless Rogues #2

by Ellie St. Clair

Drawn together to break a code, will Hope and Anthony fight for their forbidden love His family name sullied after his father was branded a traitor, Anthony, Lord Whitehall, is fed up with all of the ton . His only allegiance is to his small group of daredevil friends, which is why he agrees to help break a code that is discovered as the next clue in their treasure hunt. The code he didn’t realize he would have to break? One in the form of an angelic blond woman who sees the world in sunlight. Lady Hope Newfield believes love is worth waiting for — it just hasn’t found her yet. Then a surly viscount takes up residence at her family’s country home. She cannot help the irresistible pull to him as he attempts to solve the code, despite the fact that her father has strictly forbid any connection between the viscount and his daughters. As the hunt to break the code intensifies, so does the danger that follows them, Anthony’s own search into the past, and the irresistible attraction between Hope and Anthony. Will they listen to her father and the voices of reason in their heads, or give in to all of their desires? The second book of the Reckless Rogues series is a grumpy vs. sunshine, forbidden love, one-bed-only steamy regency romance featuring a beautiful, cheerful heroine, and a surly viscount who needs to move on from his past.

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 21, 2023

About the author

Ellie St. Clair writes heartwarming Regency romances with spirited heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and happily ever afters. Her passion for history shines through in richly drawn characters and romances brimming with irresistible tension.

A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.

When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.

Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.

Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.

Reviews

[AmazingJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Wonderful, Entertaining,,Intriguing & Romantic Story.

This Story was Absolutely Wonderful.

Hope & Anthony are trying to solve the next riddle/code & find a code that is more important.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

Will Persephone (Percy) & Noah Rowley find & figure out the next code? We shall find out in "The Scholar's Key.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just say that I'm loving this series so much and this is only book 2. The mystery of the riddles and the way the characters work together to solve it.

I love when you have a hero is so against ever letting anyone near him to love him or care for him because of his father's past despite the fact that his father is completely innocent. But what he doesn't know is that the woman he thinks is goody two shoes sees him as a challenge and she wants to help solve the riddle and discover his secrets.

This story has a hero is not only wounded from his past because of what society has said and done to him but to his father and mother as well.

The heroine however is a shy always looking out for others and looking at the best in everything and everyone.

Along the way they both see the best in each other and they can't help but defy everyone else and everything and give into how they feel for each other.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.

I look forward to the next book in this series.

I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for a voluntary review and this purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I read one of Ellie St. Clairs books in 2017 and then 2 more in 2018 but didn't pick her up again until May, 2022. I have now read 21 of her books including this one. The more books of hers I read, the more I liked her. Her sex isn't always super descriptive but i find it depends on the book. I've enjoy reading her books and felt this series has had a bit more steam in them. I really enjoyed Book 1 so was looking forward to this book.

I really enjoyed reading Anthony and Hope's story. I loved their characters, their personalities and their friends and family. I just thought this was an overall great read.

[Carol P - H · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Viscount’s Code—❤️💋❤️💋❤️💋❤️💋❤️

The Reckless Rogues code breaking escapades continues with Anthony and Hope’s against all odds love story. This volume is filled with danger, intrigue and reckless rule-breaking. Love that triumphs over obstacles—a grand tale!

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in Ellie’s new series, Reckless Rogues. In book one our couple find a riddle that they try to solve with both her best friends and his. Unfortunately, the riddle leads to a code that only Lord Whitehall sees after working codes with his late father. Anthony, Lord Whitehall is a stern, unsmiling man whose only friends are a small group of dare devils from school. After his father was wrongly accused of being a traitor the family fall from grace and was shunned by society. His father died of a broken sprite and heart thinking the county he loved hated him. His father never tried to clear his name leaving the shame to be handled by his wife and son. Anthony mother has never been the same, she is a shy woman who no longer is invited to any ton event. Anthony hates the ton and what it did to his family. When Anthony lets his friend Devon know he may be able to break the code he has no idea how his life is about to change. Lady Hope Newfield is the sunniest person on the planet. She always has a smile for everyone and also likes to help with any problems. She would love to solve the riddle and code to help her friend Cassandra. The only problem is the man who is working on it is the grumpiest, unapproachable person alive! The code leads to Anthony needing to stay at Hopes house to use the library it turns out their mothers are or use to be best friends. Forbidden by her father and sister to spend any time with him can’t stop the draw to seek him out. While working on the code, Hope comes up with an idea that will change everything. While trying to help she puts them both in a compromising position that end in a single bed! Oh, what fun this book is to see how Hope and Anthony bait each other while both try to stop the attraction and longing for the other. With lots of twist in turns and mystery to solve plus passion and secrets coming to light no way know about. You have to get this book to see how it all works out. You're going to love it and not be able to put it down. There is no cliff hanger, but the mystery of or the riddle and code continue on to the next couple and book. It’s like a scavenger hunt where we get clues in each book so much fun and reading to look forward too. I have read other series like this and the drama builds with each story. I would recommend reading the books in order to get the most out of the stories. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her, this is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Sandra Aaron · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating for The Viscount's Code, by Ellie St. Clair: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.

This is a good historical romance, but it is very unrealistic. I didn't really care, though, because it was an entertaining read. Most of the characters were likable, and there were a lot of interesting scenes. The reader does need to be prepared for how unrealistic it is, though -- because their behavior doesn't really fit the Regency period, and the way they go about solving the mystery is not very believable.

I liked both Hope and Anthony, but was bothered by Anthony's refusal to consider that he could ever be with Hope. Since his father had been accused of being a traitor, he thought he had nothing to offer her, and was convinced that marrying her would ruin her life. He never considered that she might still want to be with him anyway, and didn't give her a chance to prove that she did for a long time.

I did like that Anthony was able to clear his father's name in the end, but I liked even more that Hope wanted to be with him even before he did.

The reader also needs to be prepared for the fact that the mystery is not solved in this book. I've read 3 of the books so far, and the mystery is still not solved. I'm assuming it won't be solved until the last book in the series.

My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.

[Bookish.Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Viscount’s Code is the second book in the Reckless Rogues Series by Ellie St. Clair. The grumpy-sunshine couple at the heart of the story, Hope and Anthony, were likable, and there were some well-written steamy scenes between them. I enjoyed the way the barriers to their being together was handled; Hope’s father forbids any type of union between Anthony and either of his daughters because of a scandal involving the late Lord Whitehall, Anthony’s father, which alleges that he was a traitor while working as a codebreaker in the Napoleonic War. If the book had just focused on the burgeoning love between Anthony and Hope and Anthony’s efforts to clear his father’s name, I would’ve enjoyed the book more than I did. However, there is a mystery/riddle, introduced in the first book, that took up a good chunk of this story. I didn’t read the first book and so I missed some details from the earlier book, but St. Clair gave enough information that it didn’t hamper my overall understanding. I found the sub-plot tedious and found myself skipping over parts of the story that dealt with it. For anyone who’s been reading this series, the mystery continues in the next book.

Overall, the writing was a bit uneven for me. There were some lapses into anachronistic language (a pet peeve of mine) and the dialogue was a bit wooden at times. There was also a tendency to over-explain things which bogs down the pace and takes the joy out of reading for me. However, the author did an excellent job with characterization which is the main strength of this book. If you enjoy a mystery with your romance, and want a book that doesn't make you think too hard, you might enjoy this novel.

I received an advance review copy for free, I and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying the series, because there is a mysterious riddle and romance that builds slowly - more than I bargained for.

The riddle is not solved so be prepared. We do get a nice set up for the next story in the series. I read book 1, which gives a lot of information on the start of the riddle. When I was first starting this story, some things may not be clear to you so pay attention, especially if you are starting out with this story first.

Our H has a heavy burden. His father (deceased), is thought to have been a traitor and this has been hard on the H (son) and his mother. They both know he is innocent but can't find proof. This story is not only have the romance between the H/h but finding the clues to prove his father's innocence. Let's not forget about the riddle to be solved - so 3 stories in one for your enjoyment.

Lovemaking and foreplay prior to marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and described several times. I found it filled with passion and love. The h is just what the H needed and I enjoyed their journey to HEA with all kinds of obstacles in the way.

Unknown villain(s), violence, great main and secondary characters and twists. No cheating, no cliffhanger (for our couple), riddle not solved, HEA, romantic and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase this story and series.

I received ARC from the author and Bookfunnel and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

His family name sullied after his father was branded a traitor, Anthony, Lord Whitehall, is fed up with all of the ton. His only allegiance is to his small group of daredevil friends, which is why he agrees to help break a code that is discovered as the next clue in their treasure hunt. Lady Hope Newfield believes love is worth waiting for, it just hasn’t found her yet. Then a surly viscount takes up residence at her family’s country home. She cannot help the irresistible pull to him as he attempts to solve the code, despite the fact that her father has strictly forbid any connection between the viscount and his daughters. As the hunt to break the code intensifies, so does the danger that follows them.
The second book in the series & there’s the ongoing thread of the treasure hunt so I'd recommend reading the books in order. Another well written page turner from the author, the pace is very good, the characters wonderful plus there’s mystery as well as romance. I loved both grumpy Anthony & Hope who was a ray of sunshine & thoroughly enjoyed how their attraction grew & how they came to know each other & fell in love. Anthony is also trying to clear his father & the family name. There are twists & turns, intrigue & of course love. I highly recommend it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Cindy Woltman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Viscount’s Code is a second in series based on the premise of solving a series of riddles possibly leading to a treasure. The treasure will hopefully solve a debt problem. This book pairs Anthony and Hope. Anthony is a scarred young lord who is trying to prove his father was not a traitor. He and his mother have been shunned by society. His father was a trained code breaker. He passed his skills on to his son. Anthony reluctantly agrees to try to solve the riddle contained in two books. He believes himself unworthy of a woman like Hope.

Lady Hope is the youngest daughter. She is everything kind and gentle. Always wanting to please everyone around her. She has been warned to stay away from Anthony by both her father and sister. Of course, they are unable to resist one another.

The two characters are well paired. They are break more than one code and solve other issues along the way. As they move along there is compromise, a bit of steam and a HEA. The cast of characters continues from book one with the addition of a few new characters they are all interesting and have their own stories. This brings interest in the next books in the series. Once I got into a couple of chapters I was hooked and couldn’t put it down!

I received an ARC of The Viscount’s Code and am leaving a honest review.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our hero, the handsome but surly Anthony Davenport, Lord Whitehall, whose family name has been sullied after his father was branded a traitor, has agreed to help break a code that is discovered as the next clue in their treasure hunt. The heroine, Lady Hope Newfield, is a beautiful, sunny and optimistic daughter of a marquess who is forbidden to associate with Anthony. The two are drawn to each other despite their differences and the obstacles in their way, and they embark on a dangerous and passionate adventure that will test their loyalty, courage and love.

The book is a well-written and entertaining romance that combines mystery, suspense and steamy scenes. The characters are likable and realistic, with flaws and strengths that make them relatable. The plot is fast-paced and intriguing, with twists and turns that keep the reader turning pages. This is a satisfying and enjoyable read for fans of historical romance who love grumpy heroes, sunshine heroines, forbidden love and treasure hunts. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery, danger, and love a great combo.
Anthony’s father was a code breaker and he learned from not only from his father but also a close friend of his father’s. Anthony and his mother’s life came all apart when his father was called a traitor. Now mind you there no proof but rumor was enough. That is the first mystery in the book. The second is a thread coming from the first book in the series it started with a riddle and in the second book it leads to a code that that needed to be broken. With all of this going on there is a love attraction for Anthony and Faith. There is drama, danger, and mystery all interwoven into this love story that was so engaging and captivating to this reader. It is a super good book and I highly recommend it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such an intriguing series. The characters are good as is the subplot that ties the books together. Anthony has been scarred by his father’s past and struggles with it. Hope as her name says, is always hopeful and up beat. These two complement each other both in personality and in their abilities to solve the next clue in the mystery. I very much like these characters and their romance. I love that we got to see the couple from the first book in the series in their HEA. I’m looking forward to were seeing where the next book will take us.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Melinda Greathouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book took me a couple chapters to get into, but once I did, I was hooked. It’s the second in a series. I read it as a stand alone, but I probably would have gotten into it faster if I’d read the first book. It’s a grumpy vs sunshine trope with only one bed and forbidden love, plus plenty of steam. I will be continuing on with this series.

I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mystery continues in this delightful series. I loved how our characters went about solving the code in this second book. Anthony is also on a personal mission to clear his father’s name. Will Hope be able to help him with his quest whilst assisting her group of friends to unravel the code? This book held my interest from start to finish and I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Hope is as bright and sunny as Anthony, Lord Whitehall, is surly and grumpy. He is a code breaker, determined to clear his father’s name, who was branded a traitor, and shunned by the ton. Anthony and Hope join forces to break the code, a clue in their treasure hunt. There are lots of twists and turns in this one as a passionate romance develops, and danger follows. Cleverly written and very entertaining!

[KAREN MARTIN · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story, the mystery conitinues,

Hope and Anthony are apart of a group of friends to siblings searching for a treasure. The couple are drawn together to help solve a mystery.we see parts not it being solved as love occurs. Through no fault of his own, Anthony fights the attraction and we see how things work out. I really enjoy this author and the series so far. Looking forward to book three when it comes out.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series with mystery, code breaking and romance. Hope was a ray of sunshine and Anthony was very grumpy. But Hope broke through the grumpiness. Too bad her father warns Anthony off. Anthony will have to prove his father's innocence while trying to break a code for his friends and trying to keep Hope from infiltrating his heart.

[Lisa H]

The next clue…

Hope and Anthony work together to break a code that leads them to the next clue to find the treasure, jewels. They spend a lot of unchaperoned time together, skirting scandal. A bit of a slow burn, some suspense, some danger and lots of family.
Recommend.

[Stephanie Lambert]

Enjoy your Pie

I have nothing not to like. The novel is well
written, it is mysterious to an extent, and if you are thinking that you have figured out what to plot is in a certain areas, just keep reading, chances are your wrong.

Humble pie isn't that hard to swallow.

[Aj · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining forbidden love story, Hope and Anthony find a love worth fighting for in a treasure hunt that leads to so much more. This has an irresistible grumpy vs sunshine trope with a great mix of romance and intrigue.

[Phylis Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting well thought out story plot with clues to solve a mystery. The hunt is on. Find the meaning to a song and so much more. What can I say but read this one now.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great addition to this series! I loved both characters and the shenanigans they got up to trying to break the code. This book kept me reading late into the night.

[Anahis Castañeda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Me encantó la historia, el hecho de que hay un romance que atraviesa la saga lo hace más interesante. Recomiendo totalmente la saga

[Debra Ranck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah,romance

The group has deciphered the next clue and a romance ensued. That's all I'm going to say. You'll enjoy reading how both came about in this second book of " rogues". Enjoy

[Suzette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series continues as the group of friends continues to look for clues to unlock a mystery. Anthony is on a personal mission to clear his father’s name and repair his family’s reputation. Hope is finding herself intrigued by a gentleman for the first time. The characters in the story are interesting and plot is good. Hope shows her fierce dedication to her own happiness by reaching for what she wants. Her and Anthony have to overcome several obstacles before they can be happy.

[Ursula Rommel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Antony ist der zweite, in dieser Reihe, der um seinen guten Namen und seine Liebe kämpfen muss.
Er und seine Freunde sind auf der Suche ein Geheimnis zu lösen.
Darunter befindet sich auch Lady Hope, die auf die wahre Liebe wartet.
Gemeinsam machen die zwei sich auf den Weg das Rätsel zu lösen.
Oder besser gesagt die Rätsel, denn bei einem wird es nicht bleiben.
Ob sie auch das Rätsel der Liebe lösen können?
Dafür müssen sie diesen bezaubernden Roman lesen.
Langweilig wird es dabei nicht.
Mir hat er sehr gut gefallen.