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Scoundrels of St. James #5
The Last Wicked Scoundrel
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lorraine Heath brings us the eagerly awaited final story in the Scoundrels of St. James series.
William Graves is the last of Feagan's scoundrels. A onetime grave robber turned royal physician, he has devoted his life to saving others—because he knows there is no way to save himself. Especially not around a lady like Winnie. Though undeserving of her touch, he cannot resist. His passion cannot be tamed…even in the face of certain danger.
Winnie, the Duchess of Avendale, never knew peace until her brutal husband died. With William she's discovered burning desire—and the healing power of love. But now, confronted by the past she thought she'd left behind, Winnie must face her fears…or risk losing the one man who can fulfill all her dreams.
William Graves is the last of Feagan's scoundrels. A onetime grave robber turned royal physician, he has devoted his life to saving others—because he knows there is no way to save himself. Especially not around a lady like Winnie. Though undeserving of her touch, he cannot resist. His passion cannot be tamed…even in the face of certain danger.
Winnie, the Duchess of Avendale, never knew peace until her brutal husband died. With William she's discovered burning desire—and the healing power of love. But now, confronted by the past she thought she'd left behind, Winnie must face her fears…or risk losing the one man who can fulfill all her dreams.
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
282 people are currently reading
2056 people want to read
About the author
Lorraine Heath
91 books4,385 followersAlso writes Young Adult under Rachel Hawthorne, Jade Parker, and with her son as J.A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
Lorraine Heath has always had a soft spot for emotional love stories. No doubt because growing up, watching movies with her mom, she was taught that the best movies "won't half make you cry."
She is the daughter of a British beauty (her mom won second place in a beauty contest sponsored by Max Factor® during which she received a kiss from Caesar Romero, (the Joker on the original Batman TV series) and a Texan who was stationed at Bovingdon while serving in the air force. Lorraine was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, but soon after moved to Texas. Her "dual" nationality has given her a love for all things British and Texan, and she enjoys weaving both heritages through her stories.
When she received her BA degree in psychology from the University of Texas, she had no idea she had gained a foundation that would help her to create believable characters—characters that are often described as “real people.” She began her career writing training manuals and computer code for the IRS, but something was always missing. When she read a romance novel, she became not only hooked on the genre, but quickly realized what her writing lacked: rebels, scoundrels, and rogues. She's been writing about them ever since.
Her work has been recognized with numerous industry awards including RWA's RITA®. Her novels have appeared on bestseller lists, including USA TODAY and the New York Times.
The author of more than 60 novels, she writes historical and contemporary romance for adults and historical romance for teen readers.
Under the names Rachel Hawthorne and Jade Parker, she writes popular contemporary, historical, and paranormal romance for teens readers. She also writes young adult novels with her son under the name J. A. London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
June 11, 2020
Un cierre redondo para esta serie que me ha tenido absolutamente atrapada estas últimas semanas.
El libro dedicado a Bill Graves es muy corto en relación a los demás y la verdad no sé por qué la autora lo hizo así, ya que le podría haber sacado bastante más jugo a la historia, especialmente en las escenas íntimas de Bill y Winnie que, para mi gusto, fueron tratadas en forma bastante superficial y rápida en comparación a lo que la autora nos tenía acostumbrados.
De todas maneras lo disfruté mucho, sobre todo porque se enlaza con el conflicto del primer libro de la serie y, por supuesto, tenemos a toda la banda de Feagan tratando de solucionar aquello que no dejaron suficientemente resuelto en el pasado.
Recomiendo muchísimo la serie, no solo porque es una de las mejores que he leído en romance histórico, sino porque la autora se atreve con temas de abusos y agresiones de diferente índole para crear el conflicto en cada entrega, pero siempre enfocada a la fortaleza de sus personajes al superar dichas experiencias.
El libro dedicado a Bill Graves es muy corto en relación a los demás y la verdad no sé por qué la autora lo hizo así, ya que le podría haber sacado bastante más jugo a la historia, especialmente en las escenas íntimas de Bill y Winnie que, para mi gusto, fueron tratadas en forma bastante superficial y rápida en comparación a lo que la autora nos tenía acostumbrados.
De todas maneras lo disfruté mucho, sobre todo porque se enlaza con el conflicto del primer libro de la serie y, por supuesto, tenemos a toda la banda de Feagan tratando de solucionar aquello que no dejaron suficientemente resuelto en el pasado.
Recomiendo muchísimo la serie, no solo porque es una de las mejores que he leído en romance histórico, sino porque la autora se atreve con temas de abusos y agresiones de diferente índole para crear el conflicto en cada entrega, pero siempre enfocada a la fortaleza de sus personajes al superar dichas experiencias.
January 24, 2014
Finally! Years after what was supposed to be the last book, the final Scoundrel gets his book! A boy raised in the gutters, abandoned, taken under the care of a thief, adopted, and now a prestigious doctor, William Graves falls in love with a woman he'll do anything to protect. Readers of the St. James' series will recognize past heroes and heroines. What happens to set this novella's plot in motion is unraveled in William and Winnie's story, and the novella can stand alone. (All you need to know is that all the scoundrels were part of the same band of thieves. (Each had their own horrible circumstances to overcome.) The heroine was a peripheral character, part of the aristocracy and physically abused by her husband.
William and Winnie's love story is sweet (without syrup). It's tender, with elements of suspense and mystery to give the plot momentum. Sometimes novellas seem underdeveloped or rushed, but this is a tight story. It's a perfect sampler size of Heath's writing. This book gave me a re-read craving for the spin-off featuring the grown-up children of the St. James Scoundrels.
William and Winnie's love story is sweet (without syrup). It's tender, with elements of suspense and mystery to give the plot momentum. Sometimes novellas seem underdeveloped or rushed, but this is a tight story. It's a perfect sampler size of Heath's writing. This book gave me a re-read craving for the spin-off featuring the grown-up children of the St. James Scoundrels.
April 17, 2017
Un broche casi perfecto para ésta magnífica serie. Es una lástima que éste relato no se haya publicado en castellano. En general es una lástima que el mundo de los relatos cortos sea tan desconocido en nuestro país, pues hay muchas series que empiezan con relatos, y muchas otras que acaban con ellos, y éste ha sido el caso. Si desde el inicio de la serie supimos que los chicos de Feagan eran cinco ¿Por qué no publicar el del último? En fin, ellos sabrán.
Éste relato nos cuenta la historia del último huérfano, William Graves, el apolíneo médico de la reina Victoria. En la serie siempre ha aparecido en un segundo plano, siempre mencionado con los demás huérfanos pero no tan importante como los otros... ¿No tan importante? Tuvo una vida tan dura como el resto de chicos. Tras morir su madre, su padre desapareció, se quedó sólo en el mundo y le encontraron los chicos de Feagan. William, siempre curioso de los misterios de la vida y de los hombres, cuando el abuelo de Claybourne los acogió, decidió dedicarse a la medicina.
Y ahora es cuando nos adentramos en el libro que inició la serie, y que tengo casi olvidado debido a los años que hace que se publicó. ¿Recordáis a Winnie, la duquesa de Avendale y amiga de Catherine? Pues ella es la protagonista de éste libro. William y Winnie se conocieron en circunstancias atroces, cuando ella fue brutalmente golpeada por su esposo y William atendió sus heridas. Así fue como surgió su historia, ella debido al trato tan amable y al agradecimiento que sentía, y él viendo cómo una mujer que había sido pisoteada, había tenido la suficiente fuerza de voluntad para salir adelante por su hijo y renacer más fuerte que nunca.
Han pasado tres años y medio desde esos hechos, pero Winnie empieza a sentirse intranquila, están sucediendo cosas extrañas en su casa, y necesita de la ayuda de William para demostrarse que no está loca, pero lo que Winnie tendrá que demostrarse, es que puede luchar contra los fantasmas del pasado que amenazan su futuro y una historia con William, el hombre que le ha robado el corazón.
No hay mucho más que contar, salvo que lo que cuenta el relato es muy breve y conciso, y que también ha tenido muy poca sorpresa, pues la verdad es que imaginaba en todo momento lo que iba a ocurrir, y aunque la historia de William y Winnie ha sido muy bonita, al ser un relato ha profundizado poco en los personajes y sus sentimientos, y siempre tienes la sensación de que falta algo, pero repito, como relato para cerrar la serie me ha convencido.
La conclusión que saco de ésta serie en general es que Lorraine Heath es una autora que está entre las grandes, tendrá libros y libros, pero por suerte ésta serie no decae en ningún momento y puedo jurar que todos los libros mantienen un nivel satisfactorio. He quedado tan encantada con los huérfanos que ahora mismo desearía que alguna editorial nos publicara los libros de sus hijos, si son la mitad de buenos que los libros de los padres, seguro que merecen la pena.
Éste relato nos cuenta la historia del último huérfano, William Graves, el apolíneo médico de la reina Victoria. En la serie siempre ha aparecido en un segundo plano, siempre mencionado con los demás huérfanos pero no tan importante como los otros... ¿No tan importante? Tuvo una vida tan dura como el resto de chicos. Tras morir su madre, su padre desapareció, se quedó sólo en el mundo y le encontraron los chicos de Feagan. William, siempre curioso de los misterios de la vida y de los hombres, cuando el abuelo de Claybourne los acogió, decidió dedicarse a la medicina.
Y ahora es cuando nos adentramos en el libro que inició la serie, y que tengo casi olvidado debido a los años que hace que se publicó. ¿Recordáis a Winnie, la duquesa de Avendale y amiga de Catherine? Pues ella es la protagonista de éste libro. William y Winnie se conocieron en circunstancias atroces, cuando ella fue brutalmente golpeada por su esposo y William atendió sus heridas. Así fue como surgió su historia, ella debido al trato tan amable y al agradecimiento que sentía, y él viendo cómo una mujer que había sido pisoteada, había tenido la suficiente fuerza de voluntad para salir adelante por su hijo y renacer más fuerte que nunca.
Han pasado tres años y medio desde esos hechos, pero Winnie empieza a sentirse intranquila, están sucediendo cosas extrañas en su casa, y necesita de la ayuda de William para demostrarse que no está loca, pero lo que Winnie tendrá que demostrarse, es que puede luchar contra los fantasmas del pasado que amenazan su futuro y una historia con William, el hombre que le ha robado el corazón.
No hay mucho más que contar, salvo que lo que cuenta el relato es muy breve y conciso, y que también ha tenido muy poca sorpresa, pues la verdad es que imaginaba en todo momento lo que iba a ocurrir, y aunque la historia de William y Winnie ha sido muy bonita, al ser un relato ha profundizado poco en los personajes y sus sentimientos, y siempre tienes la sensación de que falta algo, pero repito, como relato para cerrar la serie me ha convencido.
La conclusión que saco de ésta serie en general es que Lorraine Heath es una autora que está entre las grandes, tendrá libros y libros, pero por suerte ésta serie no decae en ningún momento y puedo jurar que todos los libros mantienen un nivel satisfactorio. He quedado tan encantada con los huérfanos que ahora mismo desearía que alguna editorial nos publicara los libros de sus hijos, si son la mitad de buenos que los libros de los padres, seguro que merecen la pena.
July 14, 2016
2.5
I wish William Graves got a longer story. That being said, this is the only story that features two people who know each other longer than a few days. The Last Wicked Scoundrel is the last story in this series and it started in the first book.
Three years ago William Graves was the one who took care of Winnie after her husband beat her so bad she almost died. Now she is changed, she is stronger and she is not afraid to do or say what she thinks is right. Her self-esteem is back, but something is wrong. Winnie thinks she is going crazy and she needs William's help once more.
Overall it is an okay story, but it's a bit too short for a wonderful character such as William Graves.
I wish William Graves got a longer story. That being said, this is the only story that features two people who know each other longer than a few days. The Last Wicked Scoundrel is the last story in this series and it started in the first book.
Three years ago William Graves was the one who took care of Winnie after her husband beat her so bad she almost died. Now she is changed, she is stronger and she is not afraid to do or say what she thinks is right. Her self-esteem is back, but something is wrong. Winnie thinks she is going crazy and she needs William's help once more.
Overall it is an okay story, but it's a bit too short for a wonderful character such as William Graves.
February 15, 2014
I've enjoyed this entire series, and it was fun to see Graves get his HEA. The novella stands alone, but really I recommend the entire series, which is based on Feagin's kids from Oliver Twist, all grown up and respectable. The upcoming series goes into the next generation. I'm looking forward to it.
4 Nov 2013
I've loved this series, and even though the book isn't out yet, I'm giving it five stars to counteract the one star given by a person called "troypst," who abuses the goodreads rules by rating nearly 7,000 books with an average of 1.30. Zero reviews. And zero friends, I expect.
4 Nov 2013
I've loved this series, and even though the book isn't out yet, I'm giving it five stars to counteract the one star given by a person called "troypst," who abuses the goodreads rules by rating nearly 7,000 books with an average of 1.30. Zero reviews. And zero friends, I expect.
March 27, 2015
Un relato corto de apenas 100 hojas, que ya sabéis qué opinp . Es un broche final a la saga ya qe entrelaza el primer y el último libro. La protagonista es la amiga de Chatherine, la protagonista del primero y el motivo por el cual "contrata" los servicios del "diablo" jajajaja
No desvelo nada más que spoilearía el primer libro y no quiero.
En resumen es una historia donde lo que abundan son los pensamientos interiores de ambos, el deseo que late en los dos, pero que él no deja fluir porque cree que no está a la altura de la duquesa y la duques (mujer maltratada y vejada en su matrimonio) no cree que nadie la pueda desear. Me hubiera gustado leer más sobre el modo en el que Gaves ayuda a Winnie a ir recuperando esa confianza y ese amor propio que perdió con su marido y menos pensamientos lujuriosos pero, a pesar de que la historia es muuuy predecible, me ha gustado leerla y la forma en que la autora ha cerrado el círculo
No desvelo nada más que spoilearía el primer libro y no quiero.
En resumen es una historia donde lo que abundan son los pensamientos interiores de ambos, el deseo que late en los dos, pero que él no deja fluir porque cree que no está a la altura de la duquesa y la duques (mujer maltratada y vejada en su matrimonio) no cree que nadie la pueda desear. Me hubiera gustado leer más sobre el modo en el que Gaves ayuda a Winnie a ir recuperando esa confianza y ese amor propio que perdió con su marido y menos pensamientos lujuriosos pero, a pesar de que la historia es muuuy predecible, me ha gustado leerla y la forma en que la autora ha cerrado el círculo
April 2, 2019
Nuestra reseña en A la cama con... un libro
3'5 estrellitas para este relato que termina la serie :_(
3'5 estrellitas para este relato que termina la serie :_(
August 21, 2019
3.75 Stars
I can see how this would be the least favored book out of the series. Based on the cover, you can already see that it’s different.
The book is shorter than the other books and there’s less character development. I didn’t mind the length too much since I’m binge reading the series, but I’ve waited a long time for Grave’s story!
Grave’s should have been the second book, only because Winnie and Graves had their story told in the first book, but I guess the author wanted the 2 year mourning period the wife goes through.
It’s sad that this story fell a little short. It really didn’t have any character development and the plot wasn’t strong enough in my opinion to carry the book. Winnie has been a widow for two years. She has been trying to get over her husband and she’s coming to terms with her feelings for Graves.
Graves has always had a soft spot for Winnie, as he should since her case was so sad. She was almost beaten to death by her husband! If you didn’t read the first book of the series you won’t get all the feels for this one. A lot of missing character development was written in the first book, especially the cover-up of Winnie’s “dead” husband.
The plot of the book of Winnie going “mad” because she has been misplacing items and EVERYONE around her is telling her she is okay is not a strong plot for the story. It’s obvious that her husband is back and no one wants to tell her, as they should have so she can prepare for things.
BUT that would be too simple.
Oh and her son should have been more in the story. I love me a good single parent read, but it really didn't read like a single parent book. At least Graves and the son hardly interacted, except for one scene (which wasn't enough for me).
I think if I didn’t read the first book, this one could have totally missed the mark, but since I did, I still love all Scoundrels. It was a pleasant series to binge read, I would highly recommend it.
I can see how this would be the least favored book out of the series. Based on the cover, you can already see that it’s different.
The book is shorter than the other books and there’s less character development. I didn’t mind the length too much since I’m binge reading the series, but I’ve waited a long time for Grave’s story!
Grave’s should have been the second book, only because Winnie and Graves had their story told in the first book, but I guess the author wanted the 2 year mourning period the wife goes through.
It’s sad that this story fell a little short. It really didn’t have any character development and the plot wasn’t strong enough in my opinion to carry the book. Winnie has been a widow for two years. She has been trying to get over her husband and she’s coming to terms with her feelings for Graves.
Graves has always had a soft spot for Winnie, as he should since her case was so sad. She was almost beaten to death by her husband! If you didn’t read the first book of the series you won’t get all the feels for this one. A lot of missing character development was written in the first book, especially the cover-up of Winnie’s “dead” husband.
The plot of the book of Winnie going “mad” because she has been misplacing items and EVERYONE around her is telling her she is okay is not a strong plot for the story. It’s obvious that her husband is back and no one wants to tell her, as they should have so she can prepare for things.
BUT that would be too simple.
Oh and her son should have been more in the story. I love me a good single parent read, but it really didn't read like a single parent book. At least Graves and the son hardly interacted, except for one scene (which wasn't enough for me).
I think if I didn’t read the first book, this one could have totally missed the mark, but since I did, I still love all Scoundrels. It was a pleasant series to binge read, I would highly recommend it.
August 2, 2025
I was surprised that this was a novella. Went super fast. I think I wanted a full-length story, but okay. The hero is the one who appears less in the series, only coming in case someone is injured, so I had even forgotten what he looked like. Their love was super believable, I just expected more for the end of a series. I guess Lorraine didn't give more because the next series is about their children, but still...
November 23, 2019
Enjoyed this one and it was a nice way to wrap up the series. I would have preferred it being a chapter or two longer. Read more like a novella.
Winnie and William were perfect together! Loved having Catherine, Claybourne, Jack and Frannie about. ❤
September 16, 2018
William Graves el último de los huérfanos de Saint James fue un profanador de tumbas, ahora es el médico de la Reina y siente algo por la mujer a la que un día ayudó. Winnie, condesa de Avendale vivía con el miedo en el cuerpo hasta que su marido murió y descubre que la vida puede ser dulce y más si es junto a William.
El último de los libros de esta serie que me ha tenido enganchada durante un tiempo ha sido el broche final de una serie adictiva. Si algo malo tengo que decir es que William y Winnie se merecían más que un relato corto pero como dice el dicho: lo bueno, si es breve dos veces bueno. Sí, pero yo quería más XD
William ha sido un personaje que ha pasado desapercibido o por lo menos no se ha incluido en las reuniones de los chicos de Feagan en los momentos cruciales pero es que la autora creo que nos ha querido hacer sufrir con él desde el primero de los libros, igual pasa con Winnie (yo la adoré desde su fatal desenlace en el primer libro y deseé que tuviera su historia), ya desde el principio quería algo entre estos dos y no me equivoqué, creo que su relación podía haber tenido mucho más jugo que sacar pero nos han dado poco de ellos, y es que el libro es muyyy cortito.
A pesar de todo esto la historia ha sido muy bonita, predecible pero al fin y al cabo entretenida porque todos los personajes son interesantes y porque tenemos esos epílogos que nos dejan satisfechos.
En definitiva, me siento apenada porque se acabó la serie pero contenta porque Lorraine Heath nos deja estas maravillosas historias que a todas a las que nos gusta la romántica agradecemos.
El último de los libros de esta serie que me ha tenido enganchada durante un tiempo ha sido el broche final de una serie adictiva. Si algo malo tengo que decir es que William y Winnie se merecían más que un relato corto pero como dice el dicho: lo bueno, si es breve dos veces bueno. Sí, pero yo quería más XD
William ha sido un personaje que ha pasado desapercibido o por lo menos no se ha incluido en las reuniones de los chicos de Feagan en los momentos cruciales pero es que la autora creo que nos ha querido hacer sufrir con él desde el primero de los libros, igual pasa con Winnie (yo la adoré desde su fatal desenlace en el primer libro y deseé que tuviera su historia), ya desde el principio quería algo entre estos dos y no me equivoqué, creo que su relación podía haber tenido mucho más jugo que sacar pero nos han dado poco de ellos, y es que el libro es muyyy cortito.
A pesar de todo esto la historia ha sido muy bonita, predecible pero al fin y al cabo entretenida porque todos los personajes son interesantes y porque tenemos esos epílogos que nos dejan satisfechos.
En definitiva, me siento apenada porque se acabó la serie pero contenta porque Lorraine Heath nos deja estas maravillosas historias que a todas a las que nos gusta la romántica agradecemos.
June 12, 2020
8.5/10
historia demasiado corta, creo que este libro deberia tener cien paginas mas y que nos hubiese cerrado la saga con alguna escena final de los cinco amigos juntos.
historia demasiado corta, creo que este libro deberia tener cien paginas mas y que nos hubiese cerrado la saga con alguna escena final de los cinco amigos juntos.
December 30, 2016
Qué bonito cierre para esta serie!
November 21, 2017
Pensé que iba a tardar más en leerlo por que lo estoy leyendo en su idioma original, pero entre que es cortito y he entendido bastante bien todo el contexto, la verdad es que no me ha costado nada acabarlo.
De nuevo un libro de esta serie que me ha encantado. Tanto los personajes principales como los secundarios. Con un "misterio" que ya se sabe de antemano que es así pero que a la vez hace que te preguntes si es posible, la autora ha conseguido engancharme de nuevo a la historia de estos pícaros.
Las partes más bonitas sin duda alguna incluyen a William y su diario, ese final ha sido de lagrimillas.
Lo malo, la extensión del libro. Sé que es un relato corto, pero creo que ambos personajes se merecían una historia más larga, unos cuántos capítulos más no habrían sobrado.
Recomendada 100%
De nuevo un libro de esta serie que me ha encantado. Tanto los personajes principales como los secundarios. Con un "misterio" que ya se sabe de antemano que es así pero que a la vez hace que te preguntes si es posible, la autora ha conseguido engancharme de nuevo a la historia de estos pícaros.
Las partes más bonitas sin duda alguna incluyen a William y su diario, ese final ha sido de lagrimillas.
Lo malo, la extensión del libro. Sé que es un relato corto, pero creo que ambos personajes se merecían una historia más larga, unos cuántos capítulos más no habrían sobrado.
Recomendada 100%
April 18, 2017
4 estrellas pero porque es corto, sino le hubiera dado muchísimo más.
Y como acabo de terminarlo, estoy atontada perdida, enamorada de William y cabreada de las últimas noticias sobre los posibles hijos y sus libros, poco pondré aquí.
Hay mejores reseñas que la mía, solamente decir que es preciso, como se aman, se cuidan y se sanan entre ellos. De verdad ha sido taaaann bonito.
Dos cosillas malas. Que es cortito y que no sale mi Duque (Sterling)¡¡ ¿pero cómo no lo has metido en este libro?!! (momento adolescente total) AHHHHHH, Te amo Sterling!!.
Sip, lo siento, pero como he dicho, acabo de terminarlo y tengo las hormonas muy subidas XDDD
Y como acabo de terminarlo, estoy atontada perdida, enamorada de William y cabreada de las últimas noticias sobre los posibles hijos y sus libros, poco pondré aquí.
Hay mejores reseñas que la mía, solamente decir que es preciso, como se aman, se cuidan y se sanan entre ellos. De verdad ha sido taaaann bonito.
Dos cosillas malas. Que es cortito y que no sale mi Duque (Sterling)¡¡ ¿pero cómo no lo has metido en este libro?!! (momento adolescente total) AHHHHHH, Te amo Sterling!!.
Sip, lo siento, pero como he dicho, acabo de terminarlo y tengo las hormonas muy subidas XDDD
May 7, 2022
The last scoundrel to fall and his story left more to be desired. William and Winnie started off in this book already somewhat having feelings for each other because they met in the first book of this series. It’s been a few books since then and the time they spent together was mentioned only briefly in this book.
I would have preferred a more detailed bonding between the two of them, instead of just brief descriptions. What the author wrote—William spent time healing winnie, often having talks with her. What I expected —the content of william’s treatment for winnie and the content of what they talked about—which was not written in the book at all. Hence, I found it hard to believe in their bonding and romance.
A short novella which only had nine chapter. Therefore it wasn’t draggy. However i felt more could be done to prove that William and Winnie fell for each other by having more chapters of their bonding and whatnot.
For someone as horrible as avendale, his end was too quick.
I would have preferred a more detailed bonding between the two of them, instead of just brief descriptions. What the author wrote—William spent time healing winnie, often having talks with her. What I expected —the content of william’s treatment for winnie and the content of what they talked about—which was not written in the book at all. Hence, I found it hard to believe in their bonding and romance.
A short novella which only had nine chapter. Therefore it wasn’t draggy. However i felt more could be done to prove that William and Winnie fell for each other by having more chapters of their bonding and whatnot.
For someone as horrible as avendale, his end was too quick.
December 2, 2021
hmmm... probably my least favorite of the series..
December 27, 2013
The Last Wicked Scoundrel by Lorraine Heath is January 2014 Avon publication. I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review.
Winnie's ball has been a magnificent success. The widow is also walking on air after a kiss from Sir William Graves, her doctor and her friend. Her happiness is short lived, however, because she has been having trouble with misplacing things and could swear she can smell her deceased husband's scent. She is afraid she is going crazy. When she confides this to Graves, he is very concerned, but not because he thinks Winnie is going crazy, but because he is afraid the evil Duke Avendale might still be alive.
This novella centers around Winnie and her road to recovery after her husband was killed in a fire. She also has had to recover not only emotionally, but physically. Not from a fire, but from a brutal beating. Sir Graves nursed her back to physical health and has watched her become mentally and emotionally stronger over time. He is in love with her, but for many reasons, he can not marry her.
As Winnie becomes more and more troubled by strange incidences, Graves and Winnie's closest friends must decide what steps to take to free her from her demons and keep her safe.
In a brief time the author manages to tell a sweet and intriguing love story and draw attention to domestic violence. Times being what they were, domestic violence was not addressed and many women simply had to live with it because they were property. The author doesn't get preachy or turn the novella into a pulpit or anything, she just allows the reader to understand the situation and empathize with Winnie and with Graves, who also has his fair share of demons.
Overall this was a very meaty novella which is a part of The Scoundrels of St. James series. I'll give this one an A.
Winnie's ball has been a magnificent success. The widow is also walking on air after a kiss from Sir William Graves, her doctor and her friend. Her happiness is short lived, however, because she has been having trouble with misplacing things and could swear she can smell her deceased husband's scent. She is afraid she is going crazy. When she confides this to Graves, he is very concerned, but not because he thinks Winnie is going crazy, but because he is afraid the evil Duke Avendale might still be alive.
This novella centers around Winnie and her road to recovery after her husband was killed in a fire. She also has had to recover not only emotionally, but physically. Not from a fire, but from a brutal beating. Sir Graves nursed her back to physical health and has watched her become mentally and emotionally stronger over time. He is in love with her, but for many reasons, he can not marry her.
As Winnie becomes more and more troubled by strange incidences, Graves and Winnie's closest friends must decide what steps to take to free her from her demons and keep her safe.
In a brief time the author manages to tell a sweet and intriguing love story and draw attention to domestic violence. Times being what they were, domestic violence was not addressed and many women simply had to live with it because they were property. The author doesn't get preachy or turn the novella into a pulpit or anything, she just allows the reader to understand the situation and empathize with Winnie and with Graves, who also has his fair share of demons.
Overall this was a very meaty novella which is a part of The Scoundrels of St. James series. I'll give this one an A.
Read
May 9, 2017He wanted to do all the things he shouldn’t. But indulgences came with a price, and he couldn’t in all good conscience ask her to pay it.
May 13, 2014
I loved this conclusion to one of my all-time favourite series. The Scoundrels of St. James series (obviously inspired by Dickens’s Oliver Twist) tells the story of five child thieves Lucian, Jack, Frannie, James and William, all members of Feagan’s merry little band of ne’er-do-wells. Their lives are irrevocably changed when it is discovered that Lucian is the lost heir to the Earl of Claybourne. William was a constant presence throughout the other books and I am so pleased that he finally gets his own happy ending in this novella.
In the first book, In Bed with the Devil , Winnie is the dearest friend of Lady Catherine Mabry, the heroine of that book. She is married to the Duke of Avendale, a brute of a man who abuses his wife both physically and sexually. When Catherine discovers Winnie after a particularly severe beating, she fears for Winnie’s life and sends for William. He not only nurses Winnie back to health but also provides sanctuary in his home for her and her son, Whit. Shortly afterwards, the Duke of Avendale dies in a fire at his estate leaving Winnie free from his tyranny and free to explore her growing feelings for William.
William is drawn to Winnie but keeps a respectful distance because he believes he doesn’t deserve someone like her. He knows he has kept a terrible secret from her and fears that, if she discovers the truth, it will destroy any feelings she has for him. But when past deeds come back to haunt him, William must risk everything to protect the woman he loves.
William is such a wonderful hero. He has risen above his humble origins to become a renowned doctor but, he can never quite forget his past and the guilt he feels over his mother’s death. He has tried to make amends by helping others. I love how he treats Winnie with such tenderness and sensitivity. He sees her vulnerability but also her hidden strength. He makes her feel safe and protected and treats her with respect. I love how, with William’s support, Winnie gains in strength and confidence, facing her fears head on. She is no longer the timid, fearful woman she once was but a force to be reckoned with.
Those who have read In Bed with the Devil will know the terrible secret William and the others are hiding but I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone who hasn’t read that book. Suffice to say that things are not always as they seem and past events can often come back to haunt you. I enjoyed seeing the other scoundrels whose loyalty to each other still remains strong.
Memorable moments
She was the kindest person he’d ever known. In his youth he had longed for one kind touch, one sweet caress that would ease all the hurts. He imagined she would be a balm to his harsh soul.
He didn’t need to save the world to atone for the sins of his youth. He merely needed to save a portion of it. He’d only needed to save her.
She relished his nearness, his holding her . She’d never been held simply for the pleasure of being held. There was comfort in it, an easing of loneliness without words.
She saw a woman who stood a bit taller, had no fears, was confident regarding the path she was on. A woman who was loved.
She lightened his days, eased his burdens, brought joy to his nights.
This was a wonderful end to a fabulous series. Now I can look forward to reading the stories of the next generation in Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James.
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 STARS
Scoundrels of St. James series (click the book covers for more information):
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
In the first book, In Bed with the Devil , Winnie is the dearest friend of Lady Catherine Mabry, the heroine of that book. She is married to the Duke of Avendale, a brute of a man who abuses his wife both physically and sexually. When Catherine discovers Winnie after a particularly severe beating, she fears for Winnie’s life and sends for William. He not only nurses Winnie back to health but also provides sanctuary in his home for her and her son, Whit. Shortly afterwards, the Duke of Avendale dies in a fire at his estate leaving Winnie free from his tyranny and free to explore her growing feelings for William.
William is drawn to Winnie but keeps a respectful distance because he believes he doesn’t deserve someone like her. He knows he has kept a terrible secret from her and fears that, if she discovers the truth, it will destroy any feelings she has for him. But when past deeds come back to haunt him, William must risk everything to protect the woman he loves.
William is such a wonderful hero. He has risen above his humble origins to become a renowned doctor but, he can never quite forget his past and the guilt he feels over his mother’s death. He has tried to make amends by helping others. I love how he treats Winnie with such tenderness and sensitivity. He sees her vulnerability but also her hidden strength. He makes her feel safe and protected and treats her with respect. I love how, with William’s support, Winnie gains in strength and confidence, facing her fears head on. She is no longer the timid, fearful woman she once was but a force to be reckoned with.
Those who have read In Bed with the Devil will know the terrible secret William and the others are hiding but I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone who hasn’t read that book. Suffice to say that things are not always as they seem and past events can often come back to haunt you. I enjoyed seeing the other scoundrels whose loyalty to each other still remains strong.
Memorable moments
She was the kindest person he’d ever known. In his youth he had longed for one kind touch, one sweet caress that would ease all the hurts. He imagined she would be a balm to his harsh soul.
He didn’t need to save the world to atone for the sins of his youth. He merely needed to save a portion of it. He’d only needed to save her.
She relished his nearness, his holding her . She’d never been held simply for the pleasure of being held. There was comfort in it, an easing of loneliness without words.
She saw a woman who stood a bit taller, had no fears, was confident regarding the path she was on. A woman who was loved.
She lightened his days, eased his burdens, brought joy to his nights.
This was a wonderful end to a fabulous series. Now I can look forward to reading the stories of the next generation in Scandalous Gentlemen of St. James.
REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 STARS
Scoundrels of St. James series (click the book covers for more information):
This review has also been posted on my blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
June 25, 2017
I read the book because I wanted to see more of Luke and Catherine. The story itself is ok with one saving grace: Lorraine Heath's writing. This is so often my feeling about Heath's stories: ok story with a lovely way with words. I love her voice in the genre but I don't always love her characters. At least Luke and Catherine appeared sporadically in this story.
Last one single in the group, Dr William Graves gets his story with the then abused widow duchess Winnifred Buckland. I didn't much care for Winnie in Catherine and Luke's book. I thought her rather bland and to me she remained uninspiring. Thinking that she was now widowed, Winnie developed a relationship with William. Though why they waited 3 years to do that, I cannot tell. The relationship happened quickly since we were told that both of them felt something for each other but did not act on it until this book. The main plot is that Winnie's dead husband returned and then died again, this time for real. And they lived happily ever after. Other characters in the gang appeared from time to time but the story is simple.
Last one single in the group, Dr William Graves gets his story with the then abused widow duchess Winnifred Buckland. I didn't much care for Winnie in Catherine and Luke's book. I thought her rather bland and to me she remained uninspiring. Thinking that she was now widowed, Winnie developed a relationship with William. Though why they waited 3 years to do that, I cannot tell. The relationship happened quickly since we were told that both of them felt something for each other but did not act on it until this book. The main plot is that Winnie's dead husband returned and then died again, this time for real. And they lived happily ever after. Other characters in the gang appeared from time to time but the story is simple.
January 27, 2021
***3 Stars***
Did I jump from the first book in this series to the last? Yep, I did!
I went through to read all the blurbs to see who the couples were, and when I saw that Bill was paired with Winnie (Catherine's best friend who survived a brutal domestic violence attack at the end of the first book) I just knew I needed to jump into this book next!
And while I did enjoy the book, and it gives proper closure to this series by addressing one of the pivotal events from the first book, it unfortunately moves too fast. Why this book is a novella, I'm not sure, but it really hurt the storytelling.
Too many things felt rushed and underdeveloped. It suffers from the unfortunate "tell and no show" disappointment. But I did love the care and tenderness between Bill and Winnie.
Also, which is surprising, the editing was a distraction. Too many instances of misspelled words/wrong words used, missing words, and similar issues. For this being traditionally published, I would expect a more polished finished product.
But I'm not done with this series yet! I've got 3 books to get back to!
No one would ever hurt her again. No one would ever hurt him. He would never leave her. She would never leave him.
They were anchored together. They were survivors.
Did I jump from the first book in this series to the last? Yep, I did!
I went through to read all the blurbs to see who the couples were, and when I saw that Bill was paired with Winnie (Catherine's best friend who survived a brutal domestic violence attack at the end of the first book) I just knew I needed to jump into this book next!
And while I did enjoy the book, and it gives proper closure to this series by addressing one of the pivotal events from the first book, it unfortunately moves too fast. Why this book is a novella, I'm not sure, but it really hurt the storytelling.
Too many things felt rushed and underdeveloped. It suffers from the unfortunate "tell and no show" disappointment. But I did love the care and tenderness between Bill and Winnie.
"We look at ourselves more harshly than others do. We think people note the imperfections because they are glaring to us, when in fact they are nothing at all to others."
Also, which is surprising, the editing was a distraction. Too many instances of misspelled words/wrong words used, missing words, and similar issues. For this being traditionally published, I would expect a more polished finished product.
But I'm not done with this series yet! I've got 3 books to get back to!
September 16, 2022
Lorraine Heath is still fairly new author for me. I read my first book by her back in Oct, 2021. I wrote in my notes that I liked it and the story well written but her books were a bit expensive. I had been seeing some good reviews of her books so decided give her another chance. I am really glad I did. I picked up this Scoundrels of St. James series and have really been enjoying it. They have all been great reads.
I find that she gets so much depth in her stories and her characters. I really enjoyed William and Winnie. I just wish it wouldn’t have been a novella. Not usually a fan but obviously had to finish up this series. I would have loved to have read more about William. I have liked his character in every book prior to this one and including this one.
Definitely getting more of her books.
I find that she gets so much depth in her stories and her characters. I really enjoyed William and Winnie. I just wish it wouldn’t have been a novella. Not usually a fan but obviously had to finish up this series. I would have loved to have read more about William. I have liked his character in every book prior to this one and including this one.
Definitely getting more of her books.
July 28, 2022
Wat een geweldig afsluitend deel van deze leuke serie .
In deel 1 van deze serie werd de beste vriendin van Catherine zwaar mishandeld door haar echtgenoot en riep zij de hulp in van een van Feagan's voormalige straatschoffies en zakken rollers . De echtgenoot die moest verdwijnen was de Hertog van Avendale . Hij werd uiteindelijk met een list dood verklaart .
De zwaar mishandelde Hertogin van Avendale ( Winnie ) werd door William Graves - een ex grafrover uit de bende van Feagan , maar nu een afgestudeerde arts - behandeld voor de bijna dodelijke verwondingen .
Maar nu enkele jaren later roept zij de hulp weer in van William want zij vreest dat ze gek aan het worden is , dingen verdwijnen en duiken even later weer op een vreemde plek op en ze ruikt weer geuren die bij haar man hoorden .
Al de vijf leden van de jeugd bende komen tezamen om het mysterie op te lossen .
In deel 1 van deze serie werd de beste vriendin van Catherine zwaar mishandeld door haar echtgenoot en riep zij de hulp in van een van Feagan's voormalige straatschoffies en zakken rollers . De echtgenoot die moest verdwijnen was de Hertog van Avendale . Hij werd uiteindelijk met een list dood verklaart .
De zwaar mishandelde Hertogin van Avendale ( Winnie ) werd door William Graves - een ex grafrover uit de bende van Feagan , maar nu een afgestudeerde arts - behandeld voor de bijna dodelijke verwondingen .
Maar nu enkele jaren later roept zij de hulp weer in van William want zij vreest dat ze gek aan het worden is , dingen verdwijnen en duiken even later weer op een vreemde plek op en ze ruikt weer geuren die bij haar man hoorden .
Al de vijf leden van de jeugd bende komen tezamen om het mysterie op te lossen .
September 3, 2019
Preveč na hitro napisana zgodba,da bi se lahko razvila tako kemija kot globina med glavnima akterjema.
September 3, 2023
This was one the best novellas I've ever read. Lorraine Heath manages to pack an emotional punch in a short novella. I loved how we revisited Winnie, the best friend from the first book in the series. Winnie was abused by her husband and almost died from a severe beating. William Graves is a successful doctor and helped heal her.
They have been pining for one another for three years, but William is hiding a big secret about her husband's death. Their connection was beautiful. It was great to see Winnie grow and find her confidence. This book went into previous domestic abuse, PTSD, and trauma in a deep and beautiful way.
This was so sweet, and it made me feel all the feels. This was such an amazing series.
They have been pining for one another for three years, but William is hiding a big secret about her husband's death. Their connection was beautiful. It was great to see Winnie grow and find her confidence. This book went into previous domestic abuse, PTSD, and trauma in a deep and beautiful way.
This was so sweet, and it made me feel all the feels. This was such an amazing series.
January 6, 2024
Was I sad when I started this because it is only a novella? Yes.
Did I end up finding it the perfect length for William and Winnie’s story? Also yes!
This was such a wholesome ending to the series and it ties up everything perfectly. After the events of In bed with the Devil I was very curious about what was going to happen to Winnie and I always thought she should end up with one of the guys (I never read blurbs by the way). So imagine my pleasantly surprised face when I started reading this!
This is the series that introduced me to Lorraine Heath and I am very excited to go through more and I hope I can eventually get through her backlist because I really seem to vibe with the writing style and the plots and characters she writes.
Did I end up finding it the perfect length for William and Winnie’s story? Also yes!
This was such a wholesome ending to the series and it ties up everything perfectly. After the events of In bed with the Devil I was very curious about what was going to happen to Winnie and I always thought she should end up with one of the guys (I never read blurbs by the way). So imagine my pleasantly surprised face when I started reading this!
This is the series that introduced me to Lorraine Heath and I am very excited to go through more and I hope I can eventually get through her backlist because I really seem to vibe with the writing style and the plots and characters she writes.
June 11, 2020
Me ha gustado, es un buen final para la saga.
Está bien el hecho de que en este caso no sea instalove, del cuál estaba ya hasta la coronilla. El recurso de utilizar el tiempo en el que se estuvo curando, es muy bueno, dado que es un relato y no hay espacio para desarrollarlo. Sin embargo, hubiera preferido saber de esa época, para ver cómo se van enamorando, y que en vez de una relato largo, hubiera sido una novela normal.
Me hubiera parecido un bonito guiño que hubieran aparecido todas las parejas juntas en alguna escena, por ejemplo en el baile. Es cierto que aparecen todos los huérfanos, pero solo reflejos de ellos. Es comprensible debido a la longitud, pero aún así...
Por último, para ponerle ya la guinda, el epílogo debería haber sido el de Dickens. En el libro que apareció, ya consideré que ese debía ser el final de la saga, pero admito que eso es solo una idea mía.
Está bien el hecho de que en este caso no sea instalove, del cuál estaba ya hasta la coronilla. El recurso de utilizar el tiempo en el que se estuvo curando, es muy bueno, dado que es un relato y no hay espacio para desarrollarlo. Sin embargo, hubiera preferido saber de esa época, para ver cómo se van enamorando, y que en vez de una relato largo, hubiera sido una novela normal.
Me hubiera parecido un bonito guiño que hubieran aparecido todas las parejas juntas en alguna escena, por ejemplo en el baile. Es cierto que aparecen todos los huérfanos, pero solo reflejos de ellos. Es comprensible debido a la longitud, pero aún así...
Por último, para ponerle ya la guinda, el epílogo debería haber sido el de Dickens. En el libro que apareció, ya consideré que ese debía ser el final de la saga, pero admito que eso es solo una idea mía.
July 25, 2021
These two deserved better than a novella. Both William and Winnie had been through so much and have been in each other's lives since book one... and they got about 120 pages... maybe less...
November 14, 2020
2.5 ⭐
Regular.
Regular.
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