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Royals and Renegades #1
How to Love a Dangerous Rogue
From USA Today bestselling author Scarlett Scott comes a dazzling new age-gap Regency romance between a ruthless king and the daring lady who wins his jaded heart...Lady Tansy Francis has been a loyal lady-in-waiting for most of her life. In the eyes of the ton, she has come to London for the formal betrothal announcement of the princess who is like a sister to her. But secretly, Tansy has become caught up in the plans for a revolution in her homeland. She finds herself with no choice but to join forces with the last person she should ever trust, a coldhearted man who is feared by the king to whom the princess is about to announce her betrothal.
King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation that precedes him as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to claim his throne. After many long years of war, he has forged peace in his kingdom. But that peace is being threatened, and he’ll burn everything and everyone to the ground to save it. There are only a few obstacles standing in his path, and one of them happens to be a fearless lady-in-waiting he can’t stop wanting.
Tansy’s allegiance is to the princess, but King Maximilian has no qualms about seizing whatever he desires, consequences be damned. With the fires of revolution lit and chaos swirling around them, their passion is forbidden and yet impossible to resist. Trapped between old loyalties and new longings, Tansy has to make the most difficult choice of all—risk her heart for a dangerous rogue, or watch as he marries her best friend.Heat Scorching hot! Don't say you weren't warned.
King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation that precedes him as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to claim his throne. After many long years of war, he has forged peace in his kingdom. But that peace is being threatened, and he’ll burn everything and everyone to the ground to save it. There are only a few obstacles standing in his path, and one of them happens to be a fearless lady-in-waiting he can’t stop wanting.
Tansy’s allegiance is to the princess, but King Maximilian has no qualms about seizing whatever he desires, consequences be damned. With the fires of revolution lit and chaos swirling around them, their passion is forbidden and yet impossible to resist. Trapped between old loyalties and new longings, Tansy has to make the most difficult choice of all—risk her heart for a dangerous rogue, or watch as he marries her best friend.Heat Scorching hot! Don't say you weren't warned.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2024
715 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Scott
121 books1,563 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Scarlett Scott writes steamy Victorian and Regency historical romances with strong, intelligent heroines and sexy alpha heroes. She lives in Pennsylvania and Maryland with her Canadian husband, their adorable identical twins, a demanding diva dog, and one zany cat.
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 30, 2024
This is my 67th book by Scarlett Scott. She is definitely one of my favorite authors. She is actually one of my top favorites. I have been reading her since 2016. I love her stories and her writing and she writes such damn good, yummy, hot sex scenes. I know I will always get a good read from her. I always love when she starts a new series.
I loved Tansy and Maxim. What a great story. I don't read book descriptions anymore so had no idea this was like a spin off of the Rogue's Guild series. I would definitely recommend reading that series first. You could read this without reading those but it'll make more sense if you do. As always great read. Great couple. Fantastic sex. So yummy. Loved!!!
I loved Tansy and Maxim. What a great story. I don't read book descriptions anymore so had no idea this was like a spin off of the Rogue's Guild series. I would definitely recommend reading that series first. You could read this without reading those but it'll make more sense if you do. As always great read. Great couple. Fantastic sex. So yummy. Loved!!!
January 4, 2024
Lady-in-waiting Tansy Francis is in London for the formal betrothal of the princess. But secretly, Tansy has become caught up in the plans for a revolution in her homeland. King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to forge peace in his kingdom. But now that peace is being threatened, and he’ll burn everything and everyone to the ground to save it…and seize the woman he desires along the way.
This is the first book in the Royals and Renegades series, however it appears to be running concurrent to the timeline of Her Wicked Rogue (book three of the Rogue’s guild series) which features Princess Anastasia and Archer Tierney.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! The chemistry was electric from page two, and it just kept me hooked with plenty of tension, humor, and sex. I loved that the couple was on page together through a majority of the book and there was the right amount of intrigue without eclipsing the romance. Two thumbs up!
Tropes: Royalty, Forbidden Romance
Steam: 5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in the Royals and Renegades series, however it appears to be running concurrent to the timeline of Her Wicked Rogue (book three of the Rogue’s guild series) which features Princess Anastasia and Archer Tierney.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! The chemistry was electric from page two, and it just kept me hooked with plenty of tension, humor, and sex. I loved that the couple was on page together through a majority of the book and there was the right amount of intrigue without eclipsing the romance. Two thumbs up!
Tropes: Royalty, Forbidden Romance
Steam: 5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 11, 2025
I'm giving this 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. How to Love A Dangerous Rogue is the first book in the Royals and Renegades series. I had some mixed feelings about it. I loved the tropes involved royalty, forbidden romance, and age gap, but I felt like some of the surrounding plot could have been more fleshed out. I did, however, adore Maxim and Tandy together. Their chemistry was amazing, and this was one of the hottest books I've read in a while.
My review is for the audiobook version narrated by Heather Ryan. She did an exceptional job bringing the story and characters to life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
My review is for the audiobook version narrated by Heather Ryan. She did an exceptional job bringing the story and characters to life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 8, 2024
This book is the first installment in the new series, Royals and Renegades (no GR link yet) and the story runs parallel to the last book in the Rogue's Guild Series titled Her Wicked Rogue. I think it stands well on its own. Goodreads didn't link Her Wicked Rogue as part of the Rogue's Guild Series for some reason. Since this book runs parallel with Her Wicked Rogue, I think it should have been part of the previous series.
The story was choppy at times and have time jumps. Outside of the sex scenes, it didn't keep my interest, which was a shame because I was excited to read this book since reading the blurb back in December. A forbidden romance between a king and a lady in waiting to the princess he is betrothed to, plus an age gap? YES! Give me! Give me! Even though I don't like to read romances with characters of royalty (due to the politics), I was willing to overlook that the hero is a king.
I don't know specifically what I didn't enjoy about the book, just that I was bored during the first half. The second half was a little better since that's where all the spicy scenes happened. I eventually lost interest in reading the spicy scenes since I wasn't convinced of their chemistry and Tansy fell in love way too quickly. They were alone no more than 5 times before she admitted to herself that she had fallen in love with the king. How? They barely knew each other. She didn't even know he had a wife!
Scarlett Scott didn't describe the action scenes in detail. I wouldn't be able to either but I expected more. For instance,
1) Chapter 3 (I think that's the chapter) begins in the middle of a scene. Reading further, we learn that there was a failed assassination with
2) Maxim is planning a Maybe she didn't want to bore us with the details, but it is a little anti-climactic.
This is something I noticed in Her Wicked Rogue. The first chapter with the two main characters (Princess Anastasia and Archer), we're in the middle of the scene. She had already propositioned him to find her brother in exchange for her jewels and we read his POV to her job offer. I was confused and wondered if I was missing some pages but nope! That's just how the chapter begins. I would have liked to read his initial reaction to her, a princess, in his home in the middle of the night.
Some things I liked about the book:
1) I like that Maxim has a close relationship with his younger brother, Nando (short for Ferdinando). I assume he's going to have his own book.
2) The spice. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 out of 5.
Most of her books are misses than hits for me. So 2 stars, which is kind of generous.
The story was choppy at times and have time jumps. Outside of the sex scenes, it didn't keep my interest, which was a shame because I was excited to read this book since reading the blurb back in December. A forbidden romance between a king and a lady in waiting to the princess he is betrothed to, plus an age gap? YES! Give me! Give me! Even though I don't like to read romances with characters of royalty (due to the politics), I was willing to overlook that the hero is a king.
I don't know specifically what I didn't enjoy about the book, just that I was bored during the first half. The second half was a little better since that's where all the spicy scenes happened. I eventually lost interest in reading the spicy scenes since I wasn't convinced of their chemistry and Tansy fell in love way too quickly. They were alone no more than 5 times before she admitted to herself that she had fallen in love with the king. How? They barely knew each other. She didn't even know he had a wife!
Scarlett Scott didn't describe the action scenes in detail. I wouldn't be able to either but I expected more. For instance,
1) Chapter 3 (I think that's the chapter) begins in the middle of a scene. Reading further, we learn that there was a failed assassination with
2) Maxim is planning a Maybe she didn't want to bore us with the details, but it is a little anti-climactic.
This is something I noticed in Her Wicked Rogue. The first chapter with the two main characters (Princess Anastasia and Archer), we're in the middle of the scene. She had already propositioned him to find her brother in exchange for her jewels and we read his POV to her job offer. I was confused and wondered if I was missing some pages but nope! That's just how the chapter begins. I would have liked to read his initial reaction to her, a princess, in his home in the middle of the night.
Some things I liked about the book:
1) I like that Maxim has a close relationship with his younger brother, Nando (short for Ferdinando). I assume he's going to have his own book.
2) The spice. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 out of 5.
Most of her books are misses than hits for me. So 2 stars, which is kind of generous.
February 29, 2024
glorious storytelling. Loved it, will re-read. Looking forward to an audio book read. King Varros is an epic hero and Lady Tansy is his Woman. Caveman vibes in a good way lol
February 12, 2025
She’s a lady-in-waiting, he’s a King set with a betrothal agreement to marry the Princess she’s a lady for. So we get some forbidden, royal vibes. Scarlett Scott is one of my favorite indie historical romance authors, the amount of books she has is wiiiild so while they don’t always work for me, I do always have a good enough time. This is the start of a new series, Royals and Renegades.
I did appreciate the mental health rep in this one! We get anxiety and PTSD rep on page. We get some political intrigue in this one and loads of chemistry between the couple. Royal settings don’t always work for me, but I love this author’s historicals.
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
I did appreciate the mental health rep in this one! We get anxiety and PTSD rep on page. We get some political intrigue in this one and loads of chemistry between the couple. Royal settings don’t always work for me, but I love this author’s historicals.
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
January 9, 2024
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Always steamy , always sexy and always wonderful reading.
Scarlett produces some brilliant stories, this is a brand new series Royals and Renegades.
Brilliant characters and a lot of fun and action, some steamy some with a dangerous twist, she gives us her all.
I loved this book & I can’t wait for more.
I received an Arc copy of the book and chose to post this review
March 31, 2024
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways-OMG! This was my first Scarlett Scott, and she's now right up there with Tessa Dare and Lisa Kleypas for me!!! I was SO IN LOVE with this book! We've got forbidden love in the BEST way. They're DESPERATE for each other, but he's a king (Maxim) set to marry a princess (Anastasia) ... and our heroine is the princesses lady-in-waiting (Tansy)!
I loved the PTSD/anxiety (attack) rep in this book. The caretaking. The tension just KILLED me. The love scenes were freakin' GORGEOUS, and there were a lot of them. They were emotional, spicy, and each one featured his deep adoration for his woman.
There was also danger and excitement, as well as Maxim's rakish and incredibly magnetic brother Nando, who needs his own book like RIGHT NOW. ;o)
Sign me up for a million more books by this author!
Trigger warnings: PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, descriptions of assault/murder (off page), dead bodies/blood
I loved the PTSD/anxiety (attack) rep in this book. The caretaking. The tension just KILLED me. The love scenes were freakin' GORGEOUS, and there were a lot of them. They were emotional, spicy, and each one featured his deep adoration for his woman.
There was also danger and excitement, as well as Maxim's rakish and incredibly magnetic brother Nando, who needs his own book like RIGHT NOW. ;o)
Sign me up for a million more books by this author!
Trigger warnings: PTSD, panic attacks, anxiety, descriptions of assault/murder (off page), dead bodies/blood
January 15, 2024
I dropped everything and began reading this book as soon as it downloaded on my Kindle. Tansy and Maxim's story has been one that I've been waiting for since reading Her Wicked Rogue. This book can be read alone, but I highly recommend Her Wicked Rogue as well. I was not disappointed. I didn't put it down until it was finished even though I have to be up early.
Tansy is humble and so very loyal to Anastasia. It was hard to see her waver. Loyalty to her friend or to the man she loved was a difficult decision for her. The nickname she was given is perfect.
King Maximilian was so caring and concerned towards Tansy. I was on the fence about him until he finally got some sense scared into him. He was so vulnerable at times and his relationship with Nando couldn't be more perfect.
As always, Scarlett Scott wrote an entertaing story with amazing characters. The passionate heat between characters is like a large bonfire doused in gasoline. She did an outstanding job on scenery and wardrobe descriptions as well as other details. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Hoping it is Nando's! I believe he has already stolen a piece of my heart.
Tansy is humble and so very loyal to Anastasia. It was hard to see her waver. Loyalty to her friend or to the man she loved was a difficult decision for her. The nickname she was given is perfect.
King Maximilian was so caring and concerned towards Tansy. I was on the fence about him until he finally got some sense scared into him. He was so vulnerable at times and his relationship with Nando couldn't be more perfect.
As always, Scarlett Scott wrote an entertaing story with amazing characters. The passionate heat between characters is like a large bonfire doused in gasoline. She did an outstanding job on scenery and wardrobe descriptions as well as other details. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Hoping it is Nando's! I believe he has already stolen a piece of my heart.
January 4, 2024
WOW what a disappointment. I thought the last book was bad but this one was so much worse. The hero treated the heroine so atrociously I almost couldn’t finish the book. He was the most disgusting human ever and in the authors true fashion, the heroine was an absolute doormat who never got a back bone all because of lust. Just like the last book the men sleep with the women claiming to love them but knowing they will never be with them long term. I skipped over the intimate scenes because the story made them ridiculous and meaningless.
I cannot express how bad this book was. DO NOT read on if you don’t like spoilers. Book started off terrible when we learn the hero already met and lost the love of his life. He is celibate for years after her death because he was so destroyed yet the mistress he broke his celibacy for (and is basically the only person he sleeps with) he claims to feel nothing for except release. Then why was she special enough to break your celibacy with?
The king was going to marry the heroine’s best friend and get heirs while having the heroine as his mistress having his bastard kids and expected everyone to be ok with it. Clearly hero didn’t really love the heroine. Hero never not once thought or considered marrying heroine until she finally got a brain and left and almost died. Of course then he decided, ‘uhhh, I guess I will marry her’. Had she not done this, he would have married her bff and kept her as a mistress giving him bastard kids. Scum bag.
There was no real connection between the hero and heroine and it fell really flat. They spoke privately maybe 3 times while she was locked in a room and then we are supposed to believe they were in love. Why have a previous deep love interest with another person and then expect us to see love with another women you don’t even know.
This book was really painful to read and I wish I didn’t waste brain power reading it, it was that bad. Last book from this author.
I cannot express how bad this book was. DO NOT read on if you don’t like spoilers. Book started off terrible when we learn the hero already met and lost the love of his life. He is celibate for years after her death because he was so destroyed yet the mistress he broke his celibacy for (and is basically the only person he sleeps with) he claims to feel nothing for except release. Then why was she special enough to break your celibacy with?
The king was going to marry the heroine’s best friend and get heirs while having the heroine as his mistress having his bastard kids and expected everyone to be ok with it. Clearly hero didn’t really love the heroine. Hero never not once thought or considered marrying heroine until she finally got a brain and left and almost died. Of course then he decided, ‘uhhh, I guess I will marry her’. Had she not done this, he would have married her bff and kept her as a mistress giving him bastard kids. Scum bag.
There was no real connection between the hero and heroine and it fell really flat. They spoke privately maybe 3 times while she was locked in a room and then we are supposed to believe they were in love. Why have a previous deep love interest with another person and then expect us to see love with another women you don’t even know.
This book was really painful to read and I wish I didn’t waste brain power reading it, it was that bad. Last book from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2023
What an amazing way to start a series.
A forbidden romance between a King and a lady in waiting.
Maxim is used to getting everything he wants and how he wants it because who can deny a King? Until he meets a spitfire loyal lady in waiting who is determined to be loyal to the Princess to serves and she refuses him.
Tansy is used to not being seen, not being desired, not being heard until a King walks in and demands to know what she's hiding and starts having a friendly conversation with her. And shares his whisky with her.
After they start spending time together again and again because the princess is missing they find passion and love where they shouldn't with each other. But the forbidden fruit is always the best kind of flavor.
This story has it all from the angst, the steam, the laughter and happily ever after.
The only thing I was hoping to see was a bit more of a backbone from Tansy when it came to standing up to Maxim when it came down to him asking her repeatedly to be his kept women after they returned to Varros.
Other than that I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
A forbidden romance between a King and a lady in waiting.
Maxim is used to getting everything he wants and how he wants it because who can deny a King? Until he meets a spitfire loyal lady in waiting who is determined to be loyal to the Princess to serves and she refuses him.
Tansy is used to not being seen, not being desired, not being heard until a King walks in and demands to know what she's hiding and starts having a friendly conversation with her. And shares his whisky with her.
After they start spending time together again and again because the princess is missing they find passion and love where they shouldn't with each other. But the forbidden fruit is always the best kind of flavor.
This story has it all from the angst, the steam, the laughter and happily ever after.
The only thing I was hoping to see was a bit more of a backbone from Tansy when it came to standing up to Maxim when it came down to him asking her repeatedly to be his kept women after they returned to Varros.
Other than that I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
I received this book from the author as a gift in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
January 22, 2024
King Maxim is every bit the intensely magnetic hero I knew he would be. Tansy is a very lucky lady indeed. Having lost love before, his heart is naturally guarded and in an intense sense of duty and their match seems absolutely doomed. But this would not be a true romance without the inevitable HEA. Having already read both Princess Anastasia and Theo’s stories, it was much like peeking at the end to ease my heart in the best possible way. Maxim and Tansy give all the heat and longing of a true forbidden romance. The pain of regret, guilt and longing so intense it burns. Tansy’s loyalty to Princess Anastasia is unbreakable, the sister of her heart whom she would not hurt for the word. Knowing that Anastasia is not in love with Maxim but with another allows her some leeway in her growing attachment. Seeing, essentially, all 3 of these couples gain the freedom to be with the ones they love makes for a thrilling conclusion of sorts for this royal family. The story is filled with intrigue, suspense and mystery as we battle for the freedom of two countries and that side story is just as compelling as the romance. Maxim’s brother Nando brings a surprising amount of levity and charm that cannot be denied and I am eager to see the woman who tames the wild Casanova. Packed with heat, an all-encompassing love and loyalty, this story is a delight to the senses.
January 4, 2024
This is a forbidden romance between a king and lady in waiting for the princess who is due to marry him. Lady Tansy is princess Anastasia loyal best friend. The chemistry and forbidden passion between Maxim and Tansy draws you in from the start and I couldn’t put the book down as wanted to hear their HEA. I loved how Tansy stood up to him and challenged Maxim. Another great read and well written from Scarlett Scott. Scarlett’s books never disappoint and every new book becomes my favourite read.
Tansy has to make the most difficult decision. Risk her heart for a dangerous rogue or watch as he marries her best friend and someone who has been like a sister to her. This is a spin off series from her wicked rogue which is Princess Anastasia story. It was great hearing about all the characters from the other series. Looking forward to Nando’s story who is maxim’s brother. I envision a lot of steamy romance from that one! Let’s hope we don’t have to wait too long for it.
This book was received as an ARC, which I volunteered to read and so glad I did.
I absolutely loved this book. Highly recommend Scarlett Scott as an author.
Tansy has to make the most difficult decision. Risk her heart for a dangerous rogue or watch as he marries her best friend and someone who has been like a sister to her. This is a spin off series from her wicked rogue which is Princess Anastasia story. It was great hearing about all the characters from the other series. Looking forward to Nando’s story who is maxim’s brother. I envision a lot of steamy romance from that one! Let’s hope we don’t have to wait too long for it.
This book was received as an ARC, which I volunteered to read and so glad I did.
I absolutely loved this book. Highly recommend Scarlett Scott as an author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
Lady Tansy Francis has been a loyal lady-in-waiting for most of her life. She has come to London for the formal betrothal announcement of the princess who is like a sister to her. King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation that precedes him as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to claim his throne. After many long years of war, he has forged peace in his kingdom. Maxim & Tansy meet & sparks fly & they find themselves trapped between old loyalties and new longings, Tansy has to make the most difficult choice of all—risk her heart for a dangerous rogue, or watch as he marries her best friend.
The start of a new series but it’s a spin off from Her Wicked Rogue, which is Stasia’s story. I love how the author’s characters inhabit the same world & so characters do make appearances. I loved both Maxim & Tansy their chemistry was off the scale & she stood up to him, which I loved. I loved their journey to a HEA, aided by Nando (I hope he has his story). I would never have thought Archer would have been called a puppy – LOL & a Beast had his just reward. Another wonderful book from the author who delivers each time
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The start of a new series but it’s a spin off from Her Wicked Rogue, which is Stasia’s story. I love how the author’s characters inhabit the same world & so characters do make appearances. I loved both Maxim & Tansy their chemistry was off the scale & she stood up to him, which I loved. I loved their journey to a HEA, aided by Nando (I hope he has his story). I would never have thought Archer would have been called a puppy – LOL & a Beast had his just reward. Another wonderful book from the author who delivers each time
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 5, 2024
WOW! What a great book. The last book I read by Scarlett Scott, had the two main characters in it, and I was hoping their book would be next. This is the first of a new series, and I can’t wait for more from this series and this author. I will have to say Scarlett Scott never disappoints me when reading one of her books. This book is about Tansy who is a lady-in-waiting for a princess who is going to marry a King, Maxim. Maxim is a powerful King and man; he knows what he wants and goes after it. I have a little crush on him. Tansy is loyal to the princess but cannot help what she feels for Maxim. This book is described as “Scorching Hot”, and I totally agree. The love sections were wonderful, they were hot but also lovely. I loved when Maxim calls Tansy his woman. You will fall in love with Maxim and Tansy’s story.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
January 1, 2024
I am a huge fan of Scarlett Scott’s Rogue’s Guild series - I sincerely love Trevor and Virtue - so I have been eagerly awaiting her new spin-off series, Royals and Renegades. The lead book, How to Love a Dangerous Rogue, centers on Lady Tansy Francis, lady-in-waiting to Princess Anastasia, and her relationship with King Maximillian, Anastasia’s fiancé. At its heart, this is a story about two people sacrificing what they want desperately in the interest of others. Tansy and Maxim’s story is passionate, but also loving and sweet. Once Maxim determines that he cannot live without Tansy, he becomes a force to be reckoned with. As with Her Dangerous Beast, Scarlett Scott does a fantastic job weaving Tansy and Maxim’s story seamlessly together with Anastasia and Archer’s. I can’t wait for book two! I received this book as an ARC.
December 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review
I felt uncomfortable reading this, the characters were unlikable, the atmosphere and writing was basic, it the writing never got to the flow that makes you hooked and the romance itself did not make sense to me. It wasn’t the worst book I’ve read but I would not read it again.
I felt uncomfortable reading this, the characters were unlikable, the atmosphere and writing was basic, it the writing never got to the flow that makes you hooked and the romance itself did not make sense to me. It wasn’t the worst book I’ve read but I would not read it again.
February 20, 2025
I didn't love this, but didn't hate it either. It was incredibly predictable and some of the terms used killed the vibe a bit. Nando was genuinely the best part of the entire story.
January 3, 2024
Scarlett Scott books never fail to impress. Every book I have read of hers has been a wonderful read and this one is no exception. This is the first in the series Royals and Renegades. I haven’t read the previous series yet as this book continues on from the last series but I was able to follow through this book without any issues. I will definitely be reading the previous series as it follows the stories of characters that are mentioned in this book, but only to become more familiar with the characters.
King Maxim has come Boritania to become betrothed to Princess Anastasia. He does this through duty for his kingdom, Varros and to help her brother regain his throne from his uncle, King Gustavson, as the rightful king of Boritania and his marriage will unite the two kingdoms. When he goes to see Princess Anastasia, he is met by her lady in waiting, Lady Tansy Francis. His attraction to her is instant and although she has heard his reputation is of a bad tempered, dangerous king, she doesn’t see that when she is speaking with him. The scenes when they are alone together, becoming closer, are so sensual. The chemistry between them is amazing but they both know that they can’t be together as they want to be and she refuses to be his mistress after he is married.
Princess Anastasia is not present in the book very much as she is out trying to find her brother Prince Theodoric St George with the help of Mr Tierney, who she has fallen in love with.
Maxim comes to visit the princess numerous times but is never able to see her, instead he enjoys spending time with Tansy. He loves her spirit; he nicknames her “spitfire” and enjoys the easiness he feels around her; something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Maxim is a tortured soul who has had and seen terrible things. Remembering these moments cause him to feel like he is losing control and marching is the best way to control his emotions.
His brother Nando is a great support to him, when he isn’t bedding women or getting into scrapes with the husbands of the women he’s bedding! I love Nando, he adds a lot of humour to the story and the banter between him and Maxim is great to read.
Of course there there’s steamy open door scenes; it wouldn’t be a Scarlett Scott book if there weren’t any. These scenes are so well written, even the ones involving Nando that Maxim wishes he’d never witnessed! 🤣
This book has everything you want in a book; angst, love, humour, steamy romance and a happy ending. There’s a great epilogue too.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a book with a great story and enjoys reading steamy romance.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC reader. I’m leaving this review voluntarily. The views and opinions are all my own.
King Maxim has come Boritania to become betrothed to Princess Anastasia. He does this through duty for his kingdom, Varros and to help her brother regain his throne from his uncle, King Gustavson, as the rightful king of Boritania and his marriage will unite the two kingdoms. When he goes to see Princess Anastasia, he is met by her lady in waiting, Lady Tansy Francis. His attraction to her is instant and although she has heard his reputation is of a bad tempered, dangerous king, she doesn’t see that when she is speaking with him. The scenes when they are alone together, becoming closer, are so sensual. The chemistry between them is amazing but they both know that they can’t be together as they want to be and she refuses to be his mistress after he is married.
Princess Anastasia is not present in the book very much as she is out trying to find her brother Prince Theodoric St George with the help of Mr Tierney, who she has fallen in love with.
Maxim comes to visit the princess numerous times but is never able to see her, instead he enjoys spending time with Tansy. He loves her spirit; he nicknames her “spitfire” and enjoys the easiness he feels around her; something he hasn’t felt in a long time. Maxim is a tortured soul who has had and seen terrible things. Remembering these moments cause him to feel like he is losing control and marching is the best way to control his emotions.
His brother Nando is a great support to him, when he isn’t bedding women or getting into scrapes with the husbands of the women he’s bedding! I love Nando, he adds a lot of humour to the story and the banter between him and Maxim is great to read.
Of course there there’s steamy open door scenes; it wouldn’t be a Scarlett Scott book if there weren’t any. These scenes are so well written, even the ones involving Nando that Maxim wishes he’d never witnessed! 🤣
This book has everything you want in a book; angst, love, humour, steamy romance and a happy ending. There’s a great epilogue too.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a book with a great story and enjoys reading steamy romance.
I received a free copy of this book as an ARC reader. I’m leaving this review voluntarily. The views and opinions are all my own.
February 14, 2025
—royal romance
—age gap
—big grr man/gentle woman
Heat Index: 8/10
The Basics:
In an effort to help her homeland, secretly strong lady-in-waiting Tansy must join forces with the cold, intimidating king betrothed to the princess she serves. The trouble is, working with Maximilian may quickly become something else entirely if she isn't careful...
The Review:
This is one of those historical romances where it's quick, it's dirty, and I like the plot. In fact, I would love to see more historical romances with fake little royal families in fake little countries. I do not want to read about real royal families in historicals. Ever! But give me a fake one, and I'm all over it.
I also love a good love triangle, and while this honestly isn't actually one (Tansy and Maximilian obviously only have eyes for each other from the jump... and I mean the JUMP) I still appreciate the setup of it all. Give me some scheming, give me some illicit affairs, give me some "but alas, we cannot be".
Where I wish this had gone harder was in the character types and development. Maximilian is supposed to be big and scary and gruff, but it felt a lot more like something I was "told" than something I could actually believe in. Tansy is kind of a classic sort of nice, semi-silk hiding style heroine type. Their physical attraction is instant, you believe it, the sexual chemistry is great, I just didn't feel like they seemed very unique or dimensional as people. Which meant the love story was a bit paint by numbers in turn.
That being said—they were solid numbers. I enjoyed the painting. I just kind of wished it had gone a bit further on that level. I've liked the other Scott books I read; I think the characters just had me interested earlier for those entries. But I'll definitely read more from her in the future.
The Sex:
It's Scarlett Scott, so the sex scenes are super hot, fairly plentiful in the back half of the book, and definitely on the racier side compared to tradpub historicals. If you're into sex scenes involving alpha older heroes... you're gonna get what you want here.
While I don't think this will really stick out for me in the long term, it's a cute, quick read. The narration is well-done, and the heat is THERE. If you're new to Scarlett Scott, I'd try other books before this one, but if you're a fan, you'll have a good time.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
—age gap
—big grr man/gentle woman
Heat Index: 8/10
The Basics:
In an effort to help her homeland, secretly strong lady-in-waiting Tansy must join forces with the cold, intimidating king betrothed to the princess she serves. The trouble is, working with Maximilian may quickly become something else entirely if she isn't careful...
The Review:
This is one of those historical romances where it's quick, it's dirty, and I like the plot. In fact, I would love to see more historical romances with fake little royal families in fake little countries. I do not want to read about real royal families in historicals. Ever! But give me a fake one, and I'm all over it.
I also love a good love triangle, and while this honestly isn't actually one (Tansy and Maximilian obviously only have eyes for each other from the jump... and I mean the JUMP) I still appreciate the setup of it all. Give me some scheming, give me some illicit affairs, give me some "but alas, we cannot be".
Where I wish this had gone harder was in the character types and development. Maximilian is supposed to be big and scary and gruff, but it felt a lot more like something I was "told" than something I could actually believe in. Tansy is kind of a classic sort of nice, semi-silk hiding style heroine type. Their physical attraction is instant, you believe it, the sexual chemistry is great, I just didn't feel like they seemed very unique or dimensional as people. Which meant the love story was a bit paint by numbers in turn.
That being said—they were solid numbers. I enjoyed the painting. I just kind of wished it had gone a bit further on that level. I've liked the other Scott books I read; I think the characters just had me interested earlier for those entries. But I'll definitely read more from her in the future.
The Sex:
It's Scarlett Scott, so the sex scenes are super hot, fairly plentiful in the back half of the book, and definitely on the racier side compared to tradpub historicals. If you're into sex scenes involving alpha older heroes... you're gonna get what you want here.
While I don't think this will really stick out for me in the long term, it's a cute, quick read. The narration is well-done, and the heat is THERE. If you're new to Scarlett Scott, I'd try other books before this one, but if you're a fan, you'll have a good time.
Thanks to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 31, 2023
How to Love a Dangerous Rogue is the first book in Scarlett Scott’s Royals and Renegades series. It follows on from the Rogue’s Guild and runs concurrently with that timeline. It can be read as a standalone but if you’ve read her previous books [especially Her Wicked Rogue] it can give you a better understanding of events in this.
To outward appearances Lady Tansy Francis is in London to help celebrate the betrothal announcement of Princess Anastasia of Boritania to the King Maximillian of Varros. But the reality is that they are involved in secret plans for a revolution in her homeland. Whilst the princess is out secretly searching for her brother, Tansy is left to deal with the princess’s cold hearted betrothed. King Maxim will stop at nothing to secure and strengthen his kingdom. Which is why he is allying himself with the rightful king of Boritania by marrying his sister. He cares nothing for the princess – but her lady in waiting is another matter. Maxim is used to getting whatever he wants by fair means or foul. He wants Lady Tansy and will have her as his own no matter what. But the lady is proving remarkably stubborn. As they spend more time together Tansy’s loyalties are torn. She will never falter in her pledge of allegiance to the princess but can she resist the temptation presented by the man she has fallen in love with?
I really enjoyed this story. Tansy was so loyal and sweet, and I loved that she never hid anything from Anastasia. She struggled with her feelings for Maxim and what that would mean for her relationship with Stacia and ultimately showed that she valued herself too much to stay on and watch her love marry her best friend.
Maxim was a character with a lot of layers. He has faced a lot of tragedy in his life which has shaped the man he is. Scarlett really imbued a lot of depth to his character by showing his vulnerabilities and the after effects of a life spent at war. He has spent years keeping everyone at a distance and it took him a while to realise what was most important in his life. I loved the nuances in his relationship with his brother Prince Nando as well. They had a very strong bond and I loved the loyalty between them.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I loved Tansy and Maxim and definitely recommend this to all.
To outward appearances Lady Tansy Francis is in London to help celebrate the betrothal announcement of Princess Anastasia of Boritania to the King Maximillian of Varros. But the reality is that they are involved in secret plans for a revolution in her homeland. Whilst the princess is out secretly searching for her brother, Tansy is left to deal with the princess’s cold hearted betrothed. King Maxim will stop at nothing to secure and strengthen his kingdom. Which is why he is allying himself with the rightful king of Boritania by marrying his sister. He cares nothing for the princess – but her lady in waiting is another matter. Maxim is used to getting whatever he wants by fair means or foul. He wants Lady Tansy and will have her as his own no matter what. But the lady is proving remarkably stubborn. As they spend more time together Tansy’s loyalties are torn. She will never falter in her pledge of allegiance to the princess but can she resist the temptation presented by the man she has fallen in love with?
I really enjoyed this story. Tansy was so loyal and sweet, and I loved that she never hid anything from Anastasia. She struggled with her feelings for Maxim and what that would mean for her relationship with Stacia and ultimately showed that she valued herself too much to stay on and watch her love marry her best friend.
Maxim was a character with a lot of layers. He has faced a lot of tragedy in his life which has shaped the man he is. Scarlett really imbued a lot of depth to his character by showing his vulnerabilities and the after effects of a life spent at war. He has spent years keeping everyone at a distance and it took him a while to realise what was most important in his life. I loved the nuances in his relationship with his brother Prince Nando as well. They had a very strong bond and I loved the loyalty between them.
I received an advanced review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I loved Tansy and Maxim and definitely recommend this to all.
January 1, 2024
This novel is the first in a new series, Royals and Renegades, by Scarlett Scott. The settings coincide with Her Wicked Rogue, the third and final novel in the Rogue’s Guild series. The main characters in this new novel are Tansy and Max, with supporting characters Nando, Anastasia, and Archer. If you’ve read Her Wicked Rogue then you know how the story evolves for two of these characters. It’s what happens to our main characters that is the basis for this novel.
Max is the king of a small (fictional) European island, Varros. Tansy is the lady-in-waiting and close friend to Princess Anastasia. The story begins with Tansy and Anastasia being held in a guarded suite in London. They are in town to announce Anastasia’s betrothal to Max. This is not a love connection in the making. It is purely political, an effort to remove Anastasia’s horrible uncle from his rule on a neighboring island.
Anastasia has been secretly leaving the confines of the home they are in to find her long-lost brother who is the rightful king of her island nation. Tansy covers for her whenever someone comes by with supplies or as a visitor. Max is aware of Anastasia’s efforts to find her brother.
On many of his visits, Max is left to question Tansy about the progress of the search. This obviously throws them together frequently and they start to develop a tendre for each other. They share their histories and their needs with each other. They become romantically intertwined. Despite this, Max plans to continue with his marriage plans.
As true of most of Scarlett’s novels, there is some danger and violence, some past issues that creep in to threaten the hero and heroine, romance and lots of sizzling sex scenes. Scarlett is a very open-door writer so be prepared to be hot and bothered by Max and Tansy!
I will not give away the ending but if you are a fan of historical romance, you know that there is always a HEA.
Best of all, Scarlett sets up what I hope will be the next hero in the series with Prince Nando, Max’s younger brother.
If you are already a fan of Scarlett, you will love this new series. If you haven’t yet read her, now is the time! If you’re like me, she will capture your imagination and you’ll find yourself reading all of her prior novels!
This review is in response to an advanced reader copy of the novel that I received and the opinions are solely my own.
Max is the king of a small (fictional) European island, Varros. Tansy is the lady-in-waiting and close friend to Princess Anastasia. The story begins with Tansy and Anastasia being held in a guarded suite in London. They are in town to announce Anastasia’s betrothal to Max. This is not a love connection in the making. It is purely political, an effort to remove Anastasia’s horrible uncle from his rule on a neighboring island.
Anastasia has been secretly leaving the confines of the home they are in to find her long-lost brother who is the rightful king of her island nation. Tansy covers for her whenever someone comes by with supplies or as a visitor. Max is aware of Anastasia’s efforts to find her brother.
On many of his visits, Max is left to question Tansy about the progress of the search. This obviously throws them together frequently and they start to develop a tendre for each other. They share their histories and their needs with each other. They become romantically intertwined. Despite this, Max plans to continue with his marriage plans.
As true of most of Scarlett’s novels, there is some danger and violence, some past issues that creep in to threaten the hero and heroine, romance and lots of sizzling sex scenes. Scarlett is a very open-door writer so be prepared to be hot and bothered by Max and Tansy!
I will not give away the ending but if you are a fan of historical romance, you know that there is always a HEA.
Best of all, Scarlett sets up what I hope will be the next hero in the series with Prince Nando, Max’s younger brother.
If you are already a fan of Scarlett, you will love this new series. If you haven’t yet read her, now is the time! If you’re like me, she will capture your imagination and you’ll find yourself reading all of her prior novels!
This review is in response to an advanced reader copy of the novel that I received and the opinions are solely my own.
January 8, 2024
“You will change your mind,” he vowed. She was his, and she would know it. The damned world would know it.
“I won’t,” she denied.
“Oh, but you will. And I will greatly enjoy earning the word ‘yes’ from your pretty lips. Just as I’ll enjoy being deep inside you, making you mine, watching you come undone for me.”
Ruined. That's what I am. Totally and completely ruined. King Maximillian of Varros owns me…and dude ain’t even real. Don’t look at me that way! When I encountered Maxim in How to love a Dangerous Rogue's, I knew then we …I mean, this book would be something special and it is. Scarlett Scott has created yet another unforgettable hero in How to Love a Dangerous Rogue’s King Maximillian. He's dangerous, powerful and oh so sexy. Talk about an alpha male…my gawd…this man is amazing…and possessive…and surprisingly gentle and oh so loving.
The book itself…unputdownable. Kicking off the Royals & Renegades series, How to love a Dangerous Rogue's is a world filled with intrigue, lust, and love. Although a continuation from “Her Wicked Rogue” – a book from the Rogue’s Guild series – Scarlett seamlessly intertwines these series while letting each one shine in its own unique glory. The characters themselves are not only memorable, they’re the kind you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve reluctantly read the last word.
Take Lady Tansy Francis, a devoted lady in waiting who is entangled in a clandestine revolutionary plot in her homeland forced to collaborate with a deadly and ruthless ally. She’s also helplessly drawn to King Maximillian who just happens to be engaged to her closest friend. Known for his ruthlessness, Maxim must wed in order to secure peace for his kingdom which means helping seat the rightful king to a neighboring country. Amidst all this chaos, a forbidden passion ignites between Maxim and Tansy, challenging her allegiance. Trapped between desire and loyalty Tansy must decide if she’ll risk her heart for a dangerous romance or witness the king marry her closest friend to bring peace to her homeland..
How to love a Dangerous Rogue's is a must read folks. From its great storytelling to its incredibly steamy scenes, this one will have you captivated. Don’t just add this to your reading list…bump it to the top.
“I won’t,” she denied.
“Oh, but you will. And I will greatly enjoy earning the word ‘yes’ from your pretty lips. Just as I’ll enjoy being deep inside you, making you mine, watching you come undone for me.”
Ruined. That's what I am. Totally and completely ruined. King Maximillian of Varros owns me…and dude ain’t even real. Don’t look at me that way! When I encountered Maxim in How to love a Dangerous Rogue's, I knew then we …I mean, this book would be something special and it is. Scarlett Scott has created yet another unforgettable hero in How to Love a Dangerous Rogue’s King Maximillian. He's dangerous, powerful and oh so sexy. Talk about an alpha male…my gawd…this man is amazing…and possessive…and surprisingly gentle and oh so loving.
The book itself…unputdownable. Kicking off the Royals & Renegades series, How to love a Dangerous Rogue's is a world filled with intrigue, lust, and love. Although a continuation from “Her Wicked Rogue” – a book from the Rogue’s Guild series – Scarlett seamlessly intertwines these series while letting each one shine in its own unique glory. The characters themselves are not only memorable, they’re the kind you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve reluctantly read the last word.
Take Lady Tansy Francis, a devoted lady in waiting who is entangled in a clandestine revolutionary plot in her homeland forced to collaborate with a deadly and ruthless ally. She’s also helplessly drawn to King Maximillian who just happens to be engaged to her closest friend. Known for his ruthlessness, Maxim must wed in order to secure peace for his kingdom which means helping seat the rightful king to a neighboring country. Amidst all this chaos, a forbidden passion ignites between Maxim and Tansy, challenging her allegiance. Trapped between desire and loyalty Tansy must decide if she’ll risk her heart for a dangerous romance or witness the king marry her closest friend to bring peace to her homeland..
How to love a Dangerous Rogue's is a must read folks. From its great storytelling to its incredibly steamy scenes, this one will have you captivated. Don’t just add this to your reading list…bump it to the top.
February 18, 2025
This was my first Scarlett Scott novel and it will certainly not be my last! Something I noticed immediately about Scarlett’s writing is that she quickly got into the plot and made me feel Ike I was extremely familiar with King Maximillian and Lady in Waiting, Tansy. You know these two are going to have chemistry, but it’s shrouded in wariness and secrecy causing them to eye each other from arms length. Maximillian is supposed to be betrothed to Tansy’s friend, Princess Anastasia, for the good of his country, but he has no attachments to her at all. Likewise Anastasia has secrets of her own preventing this from being a love match. Tansy and Maximillian become acquainted as Tansy covers for the Princess’s absence, and it is in these repeated encounters that they fall for each other.
You know how some romances are advertised as steamy and then they only have 1-2 scenes? That’s not this book. Scarlett Scott infuses her romance with intimacy, orgasms, and attentive characters. I think it’s the somewhat taboo or secretive affair that made this book seem especially spicy—two characters who are desperately attracted to each other, but know there is no possibility for them to have a public relationship.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Tansy and Maximillian. He’s an arrogant King who typically sees what he wants and takes it—in this case he wants Tansy to be his mistress or kept woman. Maximillian just doesn’t bargain for Tansy who is loyal to Anastasia and values her freedom and honesty over a man’s prowess. The power dynamic is so fun to see played out in the page and this just adds to the already present sexual tension.
I highly recommend How to Love a Dangerous Rogue as an audiobook. Heather Ryan excellently voices Maximillian and Tansy’s characters with a quiet subtlety that is perfect for historical romances. I received an early listening copy from Dreamscape Media. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭🪭🪭
Narration: 📣📣📣📣
Chance I’ll listen to the author’s book again?: 💯
You know how some romances are advertised as steamy and then they only have 1-2 scenes? That’s not this book. Scarlett Scott infuses her romance with intimacy, orgasms, and attentive characters. I think it’s the somewhat taboo or secretive affair that made this book seem especially spicy—two characters who are desperately attracted to each other, but know there is no possibility for them to have a public relationship.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between Tansy and Maximillian. He’s an arrogant King who typically sees what he wants and takes it—in this case he wants Tansy to be his mistress or kept woman. Maximillian just doesn’t bargain for Tansy who is loyal to Anastasia and values her freedom and honesty over a man’s prowess. The power dynamic is so fun to see played out in the page and this just adds to the already present sexual tension.
I highly recommend How to Love a Dangerous Rogue as an audiobook. Heather Ryan excellently voices Maximillian and Tansy’s characters with a quiet subtlety that is perfect for historical romances. I received an early listening copy from Dreamscape Media. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭🪭🪭
Narration: 📣📣📣📣
Chance I’ll listen to the author’s book again?: 💯
January 4, 2024
I was so excited to get another ARC from Scarlett Scott, and especially this one as I have been anticipating King Maximillian and Tansy's story.
We were left waiting to find out about Tansy’s romance at the end of Her Wicked Rogue?
This book will not leave you wanting! Scarlett is able to intertwine her characters and their stories, not so it seems repetitive, but so you are able to feel as if these are friend and/or family groups, so often leaving you wanting more.
Tansy is a loyal servant as seen by most, a lady-in-waiting to a Princess. However, the Princess sees Tansy as a best-friend/sister and hates the formality. However, Tansy’s loyalty is tested when she meets the formidable King Maximillian, who is Princess Anastasia’s betrothed. Sparks fly between this mountain of a man who has the weight of a kingdom and his past on his shoulders, and a mere lady-in-waiting.
Any relationship or contact between Maxim and Tansy is forbidden as Maxim is promised to another in order to save not one but two kingdoms, or so they thought. What happens when a Princess goes missing and the two are forced to spend time alone to keep up the ruse that the Princess is simply unwell.
As one can expect from Scarlett’s other books, sparks definitely fly and this book will leave you wanting more with each page. Through Scarlett’s writing, not only the characters, but the entire environment comes alive so you can see the story playing in your mind like a movie.
In the end, will Tansy get her man? Will Maxim be able to lay his demons to rest? You’ll need to read the entire book to find out and you’ll definitely fall in love with the characters and storyline, especially if you haven’t read Scarlett’s books before! Who will be next in Royals and Renegades?
We were left waiting to find out about Tansy’s romance at the end of Her Wicked Rogue?
This book will not leave you wanting! Scarlett is able to intertwine her characters and their stories, not so it seems repetitive, but so you are able to feel as if these are friend and/or family groups, so often leaving you wanting more.
Tansy is a loyal servant as seen by most, a lady-in-waiting to a Princess. However, the Princess sees Tansy as a best-friend/sister and hates the formality. However, Tansy’s loyalty is tested when she meets the formidable King Maximillian, who is Princess Anastasia’s betrothed. Sparks fly between this mountain of a man who has the weight of a kingdom and his past on his shoulders, and a mere lady-in-waiting.
Any relationship or contact between Maxim and Tansy is forbidden as Maxim is promised to another in order to save not one but two kingdoms, or so they thought. What happens when a Princess goes missing and the two are forced to spend time alone to keep up the ruse that the Princess is simply unwell.
As one can expect from Scarlett’s other books, sparks definitely fly and this book will leave you wanting more with each page. Through Scarlett’s writing, not only the characters, but the entire environment comes alive so you can see the story playing in your mind like a movie.
In the end, will Tansy get her man? Will Maxim be able to lay his demons to rest? You’ll need to read the entire book to find out and you’ll definitely fall in love with the characters and storyline, especially if you haven’t read Scarlett’s books before! Who will be next in Royals and Renegades?
January 3, 2024
𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝑹𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫, 𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭, 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐞, 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐥, 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞����𝐬, 𝐋𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐲 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐬, 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐱 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐳𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬. 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐲-𝐢𝐧-𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐚, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧, 𝐚 𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐲 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦, 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧, 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝, 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐲, 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞. 𝐀𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐤 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐮𝐭𝐲. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝, 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭-𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐠𝐞-𝐠𝐚𝐩 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐫𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤; 𝐈 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐚𝐦 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨 (𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦'𝐬 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫) 𝐠𝐞𝐭s his 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐨𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐬 𝐈 𝐚𝐥𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐚𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐢𝐦! 𝐈 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤; 𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭! 𝐈 𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫'𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐩𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤; 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐨𝐰𝐧.
June 8, 2025
This was my first book by Ms. Scott. The novel delivers a fiercely seductive, emotionally charged Regency romance that pulls no punches—politically, romantically, or erotically. It isn't just an age-gap romance; it’s a slow-burning wildfire of passion, betrayal, loyalty, and power plays, all set against the backdrop of a kingdom on the brink of revolution.
Lady Tansy Francis is a heroine I immediately rooted for—clever, brave, and torn between duty and desire. Her loyalty to her best friend (who also happens to be a princess) clashes hard with her growing attraction to a man who embodies everything she should fear: King Maximilian of Varros, the ruthless ruler who has spent years earning his fearsome reputation and now threatens to set her world ablaze.
Their chemistry is no doubt off the charts. The romance has plenty of scorching g heat, so be forewarned! But what really kept me hooked was the emotional push and pull between Tansy and Maximilian. He’s not just a tyrant—he’s a man haunted by past decisions, torn between the peace he’s built and the woman who could unravel it all. And Tansy isn’t some damsel in distress. She’s a revolutionary in her own right, with choices to make that could change the course of an entire nation.
The stakes are high—romantically and politically—and that makes the pacing feel taut and satisfying.
If you like your historical romance with dangerous royals, forbidden longing, and heroines who refuse to be sidelined, this book should be at the very top of your TBR.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Lady Tansy Francis is a heroine I immediately rooted for—clever, brave, and torn between duty and desire. Her loyalty to her best friend (who also happens to be a princess) clashes hard with her growing attraction to a man who embodies everything she should fear: King Maximilian of Varros, the ruthless ruler who has spent years earning his fearsome reputation and now threatens to set her world ablaze.
Their chemistry is no doubt off the charts. The romance has plenty of scorching g heat, so be forewarned! But what really kept me hooked was the emotional push and pull between Tansy and Maximilian. He’s not just a tyrant—he’s a man haunted by past decisions, torn between the peace he’s built and the woman who could unravel it all. And Tansy isn’t some damsel in distress. She’s a revolutionary in her own right, with choices to make that could change the course of an entire nation.
The stakes are high—romantically and politically—and that makes the pacing feel taut and satisfying.
If you like your historical romance with dangerous royals, forbidden longing, and heroines who refuse to be sidelined, this book should be at the very top of your TBR.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 6, 2024
OMG Scarlett Scott give me a break! ALL YOUR BOOKS ARE OVER THE TOP!
Lady Tansy Francis has been a loyal lady-in-waiting for most of her life. In the eyes of the ton, she has come to London for the formal betrothal announcement of the princess who is like a sister to her. But she finds herself joining forces with the coldhearted king to whom the princess is about to announce her betrothal.
King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation that precedes him as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to claim his throne. After many long years of war, he has forged peace in his kingdom. But that peace is being threatened. There are only a few obstacles standing in his path, and one of them happens to be a fearless lady-in-waiting he can’t stop wanting. With the fires of revolution lit and chaos swirling around them, their passion is forbidden and yet impossible to resist. Trapped between old loyalties and new longings, Tansy has to make the most difficult choice of all—risk her heart for a dangerous rogue, or watch as he marries her best friend.
I’m obsessed with this book and the characters from the previous series. This romance is full of aghast and forbidden love. The gap age is an additional bonus that always works for me. The chemistry between Maxim and Tansy was so strong that I couldn´t put it down. Tansy is loyal to a fault, but she can’t stop loving Maxim. The relationship with Stasia is honest and real and that was beautiful to see. I finished it and went direct to re-reading Stasia and Archer’s story.
Of course there are many hot and Scarlett Scott level of steam moments, but also a lot of longing, royal intrigues, a missing prince, a princess´ best friend who is in love with someone else and a ruthless hero who would burn the world for her. I need Nando’s story now!
I highly recommend this author and this book. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND READ IT.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lady Tansy Francis has been a loyal lady-in-waiting for most of her life. In the eyes of the ton, she has come to London for the formal betrothal announcement of the princess who is like a sister to her. But she finds herself joining forces with the coldhearted king to whom the princess is about to announce her betrothal.
King Maximilian of Varros has a reputation that precedes him as a brutal, callous ruler who has stopped at nothing to claim his throne. After many long years of war, he has forged peace in his kingdom. But that peace is being threatened. There are only a few obstacles standing in his path, and one of them happens to be a fearless lady-in-waiting he can’t stop wanting. With the fires of revolution lit and chaos swirling around them, their passion is forbidden and yet impossible to resist. Trapped between old loyalties and new longings, Tansy has to make the most difficult choice of all—risk her heart for a dangerous rogue, or watch as he marries her best friend.
I’m obsessed with this book and the characters from the previous series. This romance is full of aghast and forbidden love. The gap age is an additional bonus that always works for me. The chemistry between Maxim and Tansy was so strong that I couldn´t put it down. Tansy is loyal to a fault, but she can’t stop loving Maxim. The relationship with Stasia is honest and real and that was beautiful to see. I finished it and went direct to re-reading Stasia and Archer’s story.
Of course there are many hot and Scarlett Scott level of steam moments, but also a lot of longing, royal intrigues, a missing prince, a princess´ best friend who is in love with someone else and a ruthless hero who would burn the world for her. I need Nando’s story now!
I highly recommend this author and this book. DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND READ IT.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 28, 2024
Maxim and Tansy!
This was another great hit from Scarlett Scott! I loved this book.
Maxim was known as a ruthless and dangerous king. Tansy was just the lady-in-waiting for the princess the king was to marry. As Tansy tries to cover for the princess and her time out (falling in love elsewhere,) Tansy and Maxim are forced together. From the start, they have chemistry. I adore how the author is able to write it so you can FEEL the chemistry between them - it’s like you’re in the room.
Maxim was amazing. He was all king and used to making decrees, but Tansy didn’t always fall in line. He ended up craving her loyalty and wanted her no matter what. He was determined that he could marry the princess and keep Tansy (silly man.) He was so tender with her - it was beautiful. I also appreciated his struggle with PTSD. It made the story feel real and possible.
Tansy was a great character as well. She loved her princess and was loyal to her, but she couldn’t help the feelings she developed for Maxim. I could feel her struggle throughout to do what was right. It was great to see so much honesty come from her. The only thing I didn’t like was that I really wanted her to resist and defy Maxim’s wishes more at times, but I understand why the author didn’t.
I hope we get to see a book for Maxim’s brother Nando!
This was another great hit from Scarlett Scott! I loved this book.
Maxim was known as a ruthless and dangerous king. Tansy was just the lady-in-waiting for the princess the king was to marry. As Tansy tries to cover for the princess and her time out (falling in love elsewhere,) Tansy and Maxim are forced together. From the start, they have chemistry. I adore how the author is able to write it so you can FEEL the chemistry between them - it’s like you’re in the room.
Maxim was amazing. He was all king and used to making decrees, but Tansy didn’t always fall in line. He ended up craving her loyalty and wanted her no matter what. He was determined that he could marry the princess and keep Tansy (silly man.) He was so tender with her - it was beautiful. I also appreciated his struggle with PTSD. It made the story feel real and possible.
Tansy was a great character as well. She loved her princess and was loyal to her, but she couldn’t help the feelings she developed for Maxim. I could feel her struggle throughout to do what was right. It was great to see so much honesty come from her. The only thing I didn’t like was that I really wanted her to resist and defy Maxim’s wishes more at times, but I understand why the author didn’t.
I hope we get to see a book for Maxim’s brother Nando!
July 3, 2025
Scarlett Scott is a prolific author of historical romances, and while I haven't read a lot of her books, I've enjoyed the ones I did read. So I was happy to dive into this one, and equally happy to find that I enjoyed this one as well. I liked the main characters, a broody older man (a "cold and callous" king) and the young lady-in-waiting to the princess he has contracted to marry as a political move to strengthen the alliance between their countries. The politics of the plot were a bit tricky for me to figure out in the beginning, but that may have been a factor of (1) my mood at the time and (2) the fact that I was listening to the audiobook vs reading - my attention span (mood??) may not have been ideal right then. But it became clearer as the book moved along. Scott is known for her steam level, and their mutual attraction was obvious and strong from the beginning, and the expected steam level was definitely there. And I enjoyed watching their emotional connections grow through the book.
Heather Ryan did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. I'll definitely be on the lookout for the next book in this series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for providing a digital copy for an unbiased review.
Heather Ryan did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. I'll definitely be on the lookout for the next book in this series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for providing a digital copy for an unbiased review.
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