What do you think?
Rate this book
Wicked Dukes Society #1
Duke with a Reputation
From USA Today bestselling author Scarlett Scott comes a scorching-hot enemies-to-lovers romance between a single dad duke and the fiercely independent countess who has vowed to guard her heart at all costs...
The Duke of Brandon is London’s most infamous rake. But his world crashes to a decided halt when the sins of his past come back to haunt him in the form of one small she-devil of a child who has green eyes just like his. To make matters worse, his disapproving grandmother has decided that he must marry or forfeit his inheritance.
Now, he has no choice but to raise a daughter, find a wife, and keep his harridan grandmother from discovering his sordid secrets as the founder of the Wicked Dukes Society. So when the tempting, fiery-haired Countess of Grenfell propositions him, he offers her something else instead—a marriage of convenience.
Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, is London’s most notorious widow. Her doomed, one-sided marriage left her with a broken heart and a determination to never wed again. What she wants is simple—passion, independence, and one night in the Duke of Brandon’s bed. Or in his scandalous chair. Perhaps even against a wall. She wouldn’t marry him, however, if he were the last man on earth.
Brandon is quickly running out of time and his troublemaking daughter has decided no one else shall do as her step-mama but the maddening countess. He must persuade Lottie to become his duchess with all haste or risk losing everything. As he sets out to seduce her into marriage, he’s shocked to realize that he’s done the one thing he previously believed himself incapable of along the way—he’s fallen in love. But Lottie’s bruised and battered heart is more guarded than his, and she has vowed to never allow another man to hurt her again.
Heat Scorching hot! Don't say you weren't warned.
The Duke of Brandon is London’s most infamous rake. But his world crashes to a decided halt when the sins of his past come back to haunt him in the form of one small she-devil of a child who has green eyes just like his. To make matters worse, his disapproving grandmother has decided that he must marry or forfeit his inheritance.
Now, he has no choice but to raise a daughter, find a wife, and keep his harridan grandmother from discovering his sordid secrets as the founder of the Wicked Dukes Society. So when the tempting, fiery-haired Countess of Grenfell propositions him, he offers her something else instead—a marriage of convenience.
Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, is London’s most notorious widow. Her doomed, one-sided marriage left her with a broken heart and a determination to never wed again. What she wants is simple—passion, independence, and one night in the Duke of Brandon’s bed. Or in his scandalous chair. Perhaps even against a wall. She wouldn’t marry him, however, if he were the last man on earth.
Brandon is quickly running out of time and his troublemaking daughter has decided no one else shall do as her step-mama but the maddening countess. He must persuade Lottie to become his duchess with all haste or risk losing everything. As he sets out to seduce her into marriage, he’s shocked to realize that he’s done the one thing he previously believed himself incapable of along the way—he’s fallen in love. But Lottie’s bruised and battered heart is more guarded than his, and she has vowed to never allow another man to hurt her again.
Heat Scorching hot! Don't say you weren't warned.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2024
1475 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Scott
121 books1,566 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
September 21, 2025
2 heroine just wanted to sleep with everyone⭐️
This sucked! Harsh? Yes.
Lottie is a widow, she now likes to sleep with men to have fun, multiple men, and decides Brandon is hot and he is to be her next lover.
They do the deed, and he is intrigued, she thinks about him too but also about potential others 🤦♀️ at this point I am already disassociating.
She is petty and comments if he looks at other women. But she doesn’t want him. She turned his proposal down. They have sex again. Lottie is very sex positive and it came across aggravating because it was so very unrealistic of the times. It would have been more realistic in a modern day night club setting.
Anyway she drove me to madness and his whole sex club thing was so out of the paradigm for historical romance that I had to Dnf at 60%.🙌
I have two recent 5⭐️ reads by this author, so this hit me hard.
Should you read it? Not if you like HR in the original sense.
This sucked! Harsh? Yes.
Lottie is a widow, she now likes to sleep with men to have fun, multiple men, and decides Brandon is hot and he is to be her next lover.
They do the deed, and he is intrigued, she thinks about him too but also about potential others 🤦♀️ at this point I am already disassociating.
She is petty and comments if he looks at other women. But she doesn’t want him. She turned his proposal down. They have sex again. Lottie is very sex positive and it came across aggravating because it was so very unrealistic of the times. It would have been more realistic in a modern day night club setting.
Anyway she drove me to madness and his whole sex club thing was so out of the paradigm for historical romance that I had to Dnf at 60%.🙌
I have two recent 5⭐️ reads by this author, so this hit me hard.
Should you read it? Not if you like HR in the original sense.
December 19, 2025
2 heroine just wanted to sleep with everyone⭐️
This sucked! Harsh? Yes.
Lottie is a widow, she now likes to sleep with men to have fun, multiple men, and decides Brandon is hot and he is to be her next lover.
They do the deed, and he is intrigued, she thinks about him too but also about potential others 🤦♀️ at this point I am already disassociating.
She is petty and comments if he looks at other women. But she doesn’t want him. She turned his proposal down. They have sex again. Lottie is very sex positive and it came across aggravating because it was so very unrealistic of the times. It would have been more realistic in a modern day night club setting.
Anyway she drove me to madness and his whole sex club thing was so out of the paradigm for historical romance that I had to Dnf at 60%.🙌
I have two recent 5⭐️ reads by this author, so this hit me hard.
Should you read it? Not if you like HR in the original sense.
This sucked! Harsh? Yes.
Lottie is a widow, she now likes to sleep with men to have fun, multiple men, and decides Brandon is hot and he is to be her next lover.
They do the deed, and he is intrigued, she thinks about him too but also about potential others 🤦♀️ at this point I am already disassociating.
She is petty and comments if he looks at other women. But she doesn’t want him. She turned his proposal down. They have sex again. Lottie is very sex positive and it came across aggravating because it was so very unrealistic of the times. It would have been more realistic in a modern day night club setting.
Anyway she drove me to madness and his whole sex club thing was so out of the paradigm for historical romance that I had to Dnf at 60%.🙌
I have two recent 5⭐️ reads by this author, so this hit me hard.
Should you read it? Not if you like HR in the original sense.
December 24, 2024
Hard to rate
The ending was perfect and great an j loved it. The beginning not so much. Personal preference I know but I was not impressed with the opening chapter. I almost did a dnf. The hero and his friends began a sex club. And we hear his thoughts as he is perusing the decadent event and the players. And it was unappealing to me. It was very crude and I just didn't like it. Then we meet the heroine and she had a horrible husband that died and she was part of a 'fast' set of widows. She thought about the discreet lovers she had taken over the last year and she was currently pursuing Brandon as a lover. In the mid time Brandon was confronted with a daughter born on the 'wrong' side of the blanket by his grandmother who finds him with an.opera singer in his bed. Strike 2 for me but Pandy his daughter was way too cute. She endup with a dog named Cat and she calls her Father Duke. Its so cute. She and Cat made the book. Plus the heroine was very good to the child. Brandon ended up really loving her and you could feel it. She ended up loving him too but there is a tug of war between them. The epilogue was perfect and I almost forgot the first chapter but I just couldn't. I like more traditional heroes and heroines but in the end, it was very sweet. I gave it three but it may be a little closer to four but that first chapter squicked me out. And her reflections on lovers past bothered me too. I like the Virgin heroines most but that is just because I am old and set in my ways. It ended up being a sweet story. I liked them both by the end. Sizzling sex scenes.too.
The ending was perfect and great an j loved it. The beginning not so much. Personal preference I know but I was not impressed with the opening chapter. I almost did a dnf. The hero and his friends began a sex club. And we hear his thoughts as he is perusing the decadent event and the players. And it was unappealing to me. It was very crude and I just didn't like it. Then we meet the heroine and she had a horrible husband that died and she was part of a 'fast' set of widows. She thought about the discreet lovers she had taken over the last year and she was currently pursuing Brandon as a lover. In the mid time Brandon was confronted with a daughter born on the 'wrong' side of the blanket by his grandmother who finds him with an.opera singer in his bed. Strike 2 for me but Pandy his daughter was way too cute. She endup with a dog named Cat and she calls her Father Duke. Its so cute. She and Cat made the book. Plus the heroine was very good to the child. Brandon ended up really loving her and you could feel it. She ended up loving him too but there is a tug of war between them. The epilogue was perfect and I almost forgot the first chapter but I just couldn't. I like more traditional heroes and heroines but in the end, it was very sweet. I gave it three but it may be a little closer to four but that first chapter squicked me out. And her reflections on lovers past bothered me too. I like the Virgin heroines most but that is just because I am old and set in my ways. It ended up being a sweet story. I liked them both by the end. Sizzling sex scenes.too.
December 10, 2024
An excellent way to begin a new series!
This book had me up all night because I just simply couldn't stop reading it..
Lottie and Brandon have been two characters I've been longing to see get their happily ever after and Scarlett delivered it!
Brandon is the founder of a wicked club until his grandmother steps in and demands he marries or he loses his inheritance along with a daughter he didn't know he had but the only woman he wants to marry, doesn't ever want to marry again.
Lottie has no plans on ever marrying again, only taking lovers because she married once and fell in love once, and her husband not only lied about how he felt for her but he broke her spirit but the rake she has in mind to be her lover shows her that she's beautiful, and that she's not broken..
With the help of a spirited little girl, a untamed dog, she finds she can't resist him and he will give up everything for her.
This story has steam, tears of sadness and tears of joy.
This story was so good from the beginning to the end.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
This book had me up all night because I just simply couldn't stop reading it..
Lottie and Brandon have been two characters I've been longing to see get their happily ever after and Scarlett delivered it!
Brandon is the founder of a wicked club until his grandmother steps in and demands he marries or he loses his inheritance along with a daughter he didn't know he had but the only woman he wants to marry, doesn't ever want to marry again.
Lottie has no plans on ever marrying again, only taking lovers because she married once and fell in love once, and her husband not only lied about how he felt for her but he broke her spirit but the rake she has in mind to be her lover shows her that she's beautiful, and that she's not broken..
With the help of a spirited little girl, a untamed dog, she finds she can't resist him and he will give up everything for her.
This story has steam, tears of sadness and tears of joy.
This story was so good from the beginning to the end.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.
December 19, 2024
The Duke of Brandon's scoundrel life catches up to him when a child, who has green eyes just like his, shows up on his grandmother's doorstep. He must wed quickly or forfeit an important property from his inheritance. Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, had a one-sided marriage that left her with a broken heart and a determination never to wed again. She just wants a night of pleasure in the Duke's bed, but she certainly wasn't prepared for a wedding proposal!
This is the first book in the Wicked Dukes Society series. Brandon and Lottie previously appeared in Her Virtuous Viscount (Wicked Husbands, Book 6), and that couple makes an appearance at this beginning of this story. I had not read that book, but now I definitely want to circle back to it.
What Lottie wants is simple: passion, independence, and a scandalous romp with the Duke. But Brandon needs a wife, and he knows Lottie is the right choice. He falls for her not only physically, but also for her kindness, compassion, and easy way with his daughter (and her troublesome dog, named Cat). This book is full of great banter, sexy scenes, and likable secondary characters who I can't wait to get to know better!
Tropes: Child as a Plot Point, Widow, Would-Be One Night Stand, Reform-a-Rake-ish
Steam: 5
This is the first book in the Wicked Dukes Society series. Brandon and Lottie previously appeared in Her Virtuous Viscount (Wicked Husbands, Book 6), and that couple makes an appearance at this beginning of this story. I had not read that book, but now I definitely want to circle back to it.
What Lottie wants is simple: passion, independence, and a scandalous romp with the Duke. But Brandon needs a wife, and he knows Lottie is the right choice. He falls for her not only physically, but also for her kindness, compassion, and easy way with his daughter (and her troublesome dog, named Cat). This book is full of great banter, sexy scenes, and likable secondary characters who I can't wait to get to know better!
Tropes: Child as a Plot Point, Widow, Would-Be One Night Stand, Reform-a-Rake-ish
Steam: 5
December 29, 2024
I totally loved Brandon and Lottie’s story. Sweet, heartfelt sexy and funny. Brandon discovers he has an illegitimate daughter, Pandy. It opens his heart to change.
Then enter Lottie who finds the treasure of their newly formed family. Excited to see Sidmouth and Hyacinth make an appearance.
This author’s writing is showcased in Duke with a Reputation. Beautiful vivid flow that definitely earns a place on the to reread favorites. 🔥🔥🔥💕
Then enter Lottie who finds the treasure of their newly formed family. Excited to see Sidmouth and Hyacinth make an appearance.
This author’s writing is showcased in Duke with a Reputation. Beautiful vivid flow that definitely earns a place on the to reread favorites. 🔥🔥🔥💕
January 4, 2025
3.5 stars rounded to 4 stars.
My friends / people I follow on GR really loved this book. I didn’t love it as much as them, and I think that’s because I felt like I wasn’t motivated to get through the last third of the book. At some point, it felt like we were just waiting for FMC to accept that she loved the MMC and was ready to brave the risk of opening her heart to him. It just felt like we reached this point pretty early and then we just had to watch her say, I don’t love you I don’t love you I don’t love you. And while I do feel that emotional action is ACTION in a book, I still felt like there wasn’t much going on. Not sure if that makes sense?
I will say that Scott does a great job exploring intimacy in a male main character, and that’s 100% true here as well.
A good book. Won’t be a re-read for me. But is clearly beloved by some.
My friends / people I follow on GR really loved this book. I didn’t love it as much as them, and I think that’s because I felt like I wasn’t motivated to get through the last third of the book. At some point, it felt like we were just waiting for FMC to accept that she loved the MMC and was ready to brave the risk of opening her heart to him. It just felt like we reached this point pretty early and then we just had to watch her say, I don’t love you I don’t love you I don’t love you. And while I do feel that emotional action is ACTION in a book, I still felt like there wasn’t much going on. Not sure if that makes sense?
I will say that Scott does a great job exploring intimacy in a male main character, and that’s 100% true here as well.
A good book. Won’t be a re-read for me. But is clearly beloved by some.
February 18, 2025
This is my 75th book by Scarlett Scott. She is definitely one of my top favorite authors. 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 liked Lottie and Brandon. I read so many books and unfortunately, I am one of those that reads, makes my notes, reviews it and moves on. This year I'm already over 300 books. With that being said, I don't remember these characters at all. But that didn't deter from a great read. Sex was super hot. I loved this couple together. I always love a good rake redemption story. It was a nice long read which I liked because the story and characters get so much more depth and you can really feel them. Great read.
I liked Lottie and Brandon. I read so many books and unfortunately, I am one of those that reads, makes my notes, reviews it and moves on. This year I'm already over 300 books. With that being said, I don't remember these characters at all. But that didn't deter from a great read. Sex was super hot. I loved this couple together. I always love a good rake redemption story. It was a nice long read which I liked because the story and characters get so much more depth and you can really feel them. Great read.
December 20, 2024
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🥵🥵
What could mark a better Christmas present to yourself, than indulging in a steamy Hist/Rom by Scarlett.
This one is perfect.
Charismatic characters that melt your kindle, a storyline that keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and a romance to make you swoon in delight.
I’m sold.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
🥵🥵
What could mark a better Christmas present to yourself, than indulging in a steamy Hist/Rom by Scarlett.
This one is perfect.
Charismatic characters that melt your kindle, a storyline that keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and a romance to make you swoon in delight.
I’m sold.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
December 10, 2024
The Duke of Brandon is one of London’s most infamous rakes. But his world crashes to a decided halt when the sins of his past come back to haunt him in the form of one small child who has green eyes just like his. To make matters worse, his disapproving grandmother has decided he must marry or forfeit his inheritance. So when the tempting, fiery-haired Countess of Grenfell propositions him, he offers her something else instead a marriage of convenience. Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, is London’s most notorious widow. Her doomed, one-sided marriage left her with a broken heart and a determination never to wed again. What she wants is simple one night in the Duke of Brandon’s bed. Brandon is quickly running out of time. He must persuade Lottie to become his duchess with all haste or risk losing everything. As he sets out to seduce her into marriage, he’s shocked to realize he’s done the one thing he previously believed himself incapable of along the way he’s fallen in love.
The first in a new series & what a starter! At last the author has given us Brandon & Lottie’s story, they were secondary characters many, many moons ago. As ever the book is very well written, the characters have beautiful depth, the pace flows effortlessly, the chemistry sizzles – yes I loved it. Brandon & Lottie started by falling in lust but quickly their feelings deepened but Lottie was firmly against marriage. I also loved Pandy, Cat & an all seeing interfering grandmother. The other members of the Wicked Dukes society were also intriguing & I can’t wait for their stories. The icing on the cake was the epilogue - perfection
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The first in a new series & what a starter! At last the author has given us Brandon & Lottie’s story, they were secondary characters many, many moons ago. As ever the book is very well written, the characters have beautiful depth, the pace flows effortlessly, the chemistry sizzles – yes I loved it. Brandon & Lottie started by falling in lust but quickly their feelings deepened but Lottie was firmly against marriage. I also loved Pandy, Cat & an all seeing interfering grandmother. The other members of the Wicked Dukes society were also intriguing & I can’t wait for their stories. The icing on the cake was the epilogue - perfection
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
December 23, 2024
Scarlett Scott never fails to capture my every interest in each of her stories. I just can’t get enough of the tension, the longing, the heat. I absolutely adored that this story featured an utter Rakehell who falls first, and with such gusto! Brandon has never wanted marriage, but he can’t help but want it all when it comes to Lottie. She makes him work for it, that is for certain and what a journey it is. Not everyone is a fan of children in romance, but I think it opens up a whole new element that is captured beautifully in this book. Little Pandy provides a lightness to their romance, a humor and freedom. The softer side of Brandon that we get to see was simply wonderful. There are so many elements at play here and they blend together to make a compelling, entertaining treat to savour.
December 12, 2024
Perfectly perfect.
Heat level: on fire
Humorous level: laughing out loud, quite a bit
This book had everything to make a perfectly perfect historical romance. This is the start of another fabulous series from Scarlett Scott.
The book pulled me in immediately and flowed at a good pace and was hard to put down. I would have preferred to read the book without putting it down. Yes, it's that good!
The characters were well-written and lovable throughout. The Duke of Brandon was a rake and would have probably remained had Pandy and Lottie not entered his life. Lottie, Lady Greenfell, is a widow who refuses to marry again, but fate has other plans.
There is an exuberant child, a mischievous dog, and a foul-mouthed parrot. They really stole the spotlight at times.
The chemistry is immediate with Brandon and Lottie and continues to heat up. The book is quite emotional, and I am in awe of how Scarlett Scott puts so much depth into a character. I can feel their sorrows and pain. This is going to be another entertaining series. I look forward to Camden and Rosamund's (and Megs!!) story next.
Heat level: on fire
Humorous level: laughing out loud, quite a bit
This book had everything to make a perfectly perfect historical romance. This is the start of another fabulous series from Scarlett Scott.
The book pulled me in immediately and flowed at a good pace and was hard to put down. I would have preferred to read the book without putting it down. Yes, it's that good!
The characters were well-written and lovable throughout. The Duke of Brandon was a rake and would have probably remained had Pandy and Lottie not entered his life. Lottie, Lady Greenfell, is a widow who refuses to marry again, but fate has other plans.
There is an exuberant child, a mischievous dog, and a foul-mouthed parrot. They really stole the spotlight at times.
The chemistry is immediate with Brandon and Lottie and continues to heat up. The book is quite emotional, and I am in awe of how Scarlett Scott puts so much depth into a character. I can feel their sorrows and pain. This is going to be another entertaining series. I look forward to Camden and Rosamund's (and Megs!!) story next.
November 12, 2025
I’ll admit, this novel took a while to win me over. The opening chapters dragged, and Lottie’s hardened exterior tested my patience longer than I’d hoped. In contrast, Brandon’s transformation happened almost too quickly — the moment he met his daughter, he seemed to shed his reckless ways overnight. His views on marriage were questionable at best, yet he grew self-aware in a way that made him easier to root for.
The supporting cast, though, kept the story lively. Pandy and Brandon’s banter had me laughing out loud more than once — from their playful teasing to the hilarious mispronunciations, their exchanges gave the story a spark that carried me through my frustrations with Lottie. Thankfully, she did soften eventually, letting glimpses of her real self show through. Once she took that emotional leap, her character finally felt human — and relatable.
Their journey to a happily-ever-after wasn’t typical, but it fit them perfectly. The plot offered some clever twists, and though a few chapters dragged, the humor and chemistry kept the pace steady enough to stay invested.
Brandon — the so-called bad boy duke — finds himself in trouble when his inheritance is on the line and a child suddenly appears on his doorstep. Forced into fatherhood and pressured to marry, his life begins to unravel in the most entertaining ways. Lottie, a widow burned by betrayal, only wants to reclaim her freedom. But when a duke and his baby crash into her plans, freedom becomes a more complicated dream.
Scarlett weaves her characters and worlds together beautifully, linking familiar faces from other books in subtle ways that long-time readers will appreciate. While not my favorite of hers, this story still had heart, heat, and humor — enough to make the journey worthwhile.
The supporting cast, though, kept the story lively. Pandy and Brandon’s banter had me laughing out loud more than once — from their playful teasing to the hilarious mispronunciations, their exchanges gave the story a spark that carried me through my frustrations with Lottie. Thankfully, she did soften eventually, letting glimpses of her real self show through. Once she took that emotional leap, her character finally felt human — and relatable.
Their journey to a happily-ever-after wasn’t typical, but it fit them perfectly. The plot offered some clever twists, and though a few chapters dragged, the humor and chemistry kept the pace steady enough to stay invested.
Brandon — the so-called bad boy duke — finds himself in trouble when his inheritance is on the line and a child suddenly appears on his doorstep. Forced into fatherhood and pressured to marry, his life begins to unravel in the most entertaining ways. Lottie, a widow burned by betrayal, only wants to reclaim her freedom. But when a duke and his baby crash into her plans, freedom becomes a more complicated dream.
Scarlett weaves her characters and worlds together beautifully, linking familiar faces from other books in subtle ways that long-time readers will appreciate. While not my favorite of hers, this story still had heart, heat, and humor — enough to make the journey worthwhile.
June 21, 2025
*3.5 stars*
This was cute! I know the plot of peers in secret societies have been done - and to be fair, I didn't think it added much to the plot - but what charmed me about this book was how the hero reacted to discovering he was a father. In most romances once the hero finds out about a hitherto unknown offspring, they freak out. Not in this case. The hero's heart immediately cracked open at first view of his daughter and took to fatherhood like fish to water. It was so darling!
The conflict with the heroine was also VERY real but I wish the resolution hadn't been as pedestrian. I wish the part of where they were at an impasse was longer, with him trying harder to prove he wasn't like her first husband. (Convincing between the sheets wasn't enough of an argument for me.)
The whole joke around the dog named Cat, the pig thingies and the friend's parrot went on a bit too long. As usual, I listened to the audiobook and for the first time, I preferred the female narration. The male narrator didn't have enough good male voices and the voice of the child was TERRIBLE. That said, I'd listen to the next in the series - I'm curious about the friend with the parrot and her marriage of convenience to the other Duke.
This was cute! I know the plot of peers in secret societies have been done - and to be fair, I didn't think it added much to the plot - but what charmed me about this book was how the hero reacted to discovering he was a father. In most romances once the hero finds out about a hitherto unknown offspring, they freak out. Not in this case. The hero's heart immediately cracked open at first view of his daughter and took to fatherhood like fish to water. It was so darling!
The conflict with the heroine was also VERY real but I wish the resolution hadn't been as pedestrian. I wish the part of where they were at an impasse was longer, with him trying harder to prove he wasn't like her first husband. (Convincing between the sheets wasn't enough of an argument for me.)
The whole joke around the dog named Cat, the pig thingies and the friend's parrot went on a bit too long. As usual, I listened to the audiobook and for the first time, I preferred the female narration. The male narrator didn't have enough good male voices and the voice of the child was TERRIBLE. That said, I'd listen to the next in the series - I'm curious about the friend with the parrot and her marriage of convenience to the other Duke.
January 27, 2025
This was a fun and super sexy romance I flew through in one day! I loved how both characters are both crazy for each other. The chemistry was great. I also loved all of Pandy and Cat’s scenes with the adults. Her endearing personality really jumped off the page. I hope we’ll get to see a few scenes with her in the next book.
This was my first book by the author and I can’t wait for the next book in this series. In the meantime, I’ve already started book 1 (Lady Ruthless) of an older series. So far so good!
This was my first book by the author and I can’t wait for the next book in this series. In the meantime, I’ve already started book 1 (Lady Ruthless) of an older series. So far so good!
April 17, 2025
I didn't want to like this book. I was only reading it to pass the time until I found something I actually wanted to read. These historical romance novels are a fun, quick read, but they're all so predictable and repetitive. It's the same story over and over. This book definitely followed the same patterns, however, it was a nice change from the virginal, inexperienced, fluffy-headed female characters you usually find. I'm looking forward to reading more.
December 19, 2024
I LOVED this book! I’d been eagerly awaiting Lottie and Brandon’s story and I wasn’t disappointed. They were so well matched and I love that he fell and was so committed to his love. This story was so well rounded, with phenomenal side characters, including Cat the dog. I can’t wait for the next installment in this series!
December 25, 2024
Brandon (The Duke of Brandon) and Lottie, Lady Grecelk (widow) holy cow what an amazing story!! And Pandy and Cat (who is a dog), lol added so much fun, not to mention the rest of the later additions of Jane and Albert and Dog (who is a cat). Now I just have find out what a pig trotter is, 🤔
This story has so much steam that I needed a fan and enough humor that it kept me turning pages late into the night, it is now 1:38am est and I just finished and I have THE BEST book hangover!! All I can say is Read. This. Book! You will not be sorry!!
🐕🐶🐾😆💜🔥🫠🥃🛌💤😉
This story has so much steam that I needed a fan and enough humor that it kept me turning pages late into the night, it is now 1:38am est and I just finished and I have THE BEST book hangover!! All I can say is Read. This. Book! You will not be sorry!!
🐕🐶🐾😆💜🔥🫠🥃🛌💤😉
April 8, 2025
if there was less steam…
I wish it had less steam. I feel that when a book has a lot of Steams, it takes away from the depth of the story itself. The premises of this book was such a beautiful one: a second change at love. I love Lottie bc she married so young with lots of hopes and dreams and the very first day of being married, her husband crashed all of those for her. She’s so Jared and hurt and the only thing she was to do is have fun. This is where the Hero comes in. However I think if they had less sexy time, their story would’ve been stronger. It still had a satisfying ending and that I loved.
I wish it had less steam. I feel that when a book has a lot of Steams, it takes away from the depth of the story itself. The premises of this book was such a beautiful one: a second change at love. I love Lottie bc she married so young with lots of hopes and dreams and the very first day of being married, her husband crashed all of those for her. She’s so Jared and hurt and the only thing she was to do is have fun. This is where the Hero comes in. However I think if they had less sexy time, their story would’ve been stronger. It still had a satisfying ending and that I loved.
October 1, 2025
AWESOME
This was such a sweet and steamy romance from a very talented author. I have yet to read a book by Scarlett Scott that I did not enjoy. I think this is my favourite.
Both main characters were very likeable and you just wanted everything to work out add in a couple of precocious surprises and you can’t stop reading once you start.
This was such a sweet and steamy romance from a very talented author. I have yet to read a book by Scarlett Scott that I did not enjoy. I think this is my favourite.
Both main characters were very likeable and you just wanted everything to work out add in a couple of precocious surprises and you can’t stop reading once you start.
January 16, 2025
3⭐️
Duke Brandon is a rake with no inclination to settle down when one day his illegitimate daughter turns up at his doorstep along with his grandmother saying he must marry, and become a husband and father or else forfeit his inheritance.
Lottie is a widow and thank goodness for that as her husband whom she actually was in love with out to be a philanderer. Now with means and freedom has no interest in ever marrying again. She does, however, have her sights set on an affair with the Duke of whose reputation proceeds him. Upon their meeting the Duke , turns down her offer for an affair and instead proposes marriage. Lottie turns him down and the Duke can’t help but feel intrigued.
When Brandon sees Lottie interact with his daughter and gets to know her more, he can’t help but fall in love and truly want to marry her.
Duke Brandon is a rake with no inclination to settle down when one day his illegitimate daughter turns up at his doorstep along with his grandmother saying he must marry, and become a husband and father or else forfeit his inheritance.
Lottie is a widow and thank goodness for that as her husband whom she actually was in love with out to be a philanderer. Now with means and freedom has no interest in ever marrying again. She does, however, have her sights set on an affair with the Duke of whose reputation proceeds him. Upon their meeting the Duke , turns down her offer for an affair and instead proposes marriage. Lottie turns him down and the Duke can’t help but feel intrigued.
When Brandon sees Lottie interact with his daughter and gets to know her more, he can’t help but fall in love and truly want to marry her.
January 3, 2025
Wow! What a series! These wicked Dukes have all the moves. Who could resist the Duke of Brandon? Well, Lottie did her best, determined not to ever fall in love again, after a dreadful marriage. But even she could not resist the handsome charmer. Our Scarlett has done it again, writing a wonderful story with delightful characters, and keeping us reading well into the night. I think that I have a new book boyfriend!!
January 29, 2025
3.5 stars. Minus some stars for the prominence of a dog and a child. Was a tad boring. Once I got halfway through I had to make myself read the second half.
The heroine came across as twice her age (60 vs 30).
The heroine came across as twice her age (60 vs 30).
January 20, 2025
She flattened a palm on his chest, staying him.
“On your back.”
His cock twitched at the bold command.
“Why, Venus, do you intend to ravish me?”
“Thoroughly.”...
Another sultry smile curved her lips, her stormy eyes flicking to his. “I want you to come in my mouth.”
Holy f*ck, Batman! I picked up Duke with a Reputation as my first read of 2025, and this book had me straight stuck! Scarlett did her thing with this one, delivering a story that’s fun, emotional, and so dang good you won’t want to put it down.
The characters are the heart of this book, and Scarlett Scott knows exactly how to make them stand out. Every single one—human, canine, or fowl—leaps off the page with flaws, fire, and unforgettable presence starting with the Duke of Brandon and the Countess of Grenfell.
After years of being played and having her heart stomped on, Lottie is finally free—her husband’s death giving her the chance to reclaim her time and live life on her own terms. Sis is fearless, captivating and fully committed to living her best, drama-free life. Love and marriage? Nah, she's good. She has no rings, no strings, and no interest in catching feelings. But then the Duke of Brandon shows up with his smooth-talking charm, undeniable swagger and irresistible kid and my girl's “all me” vibe is looking a little “we”.
The Duke of Brandon is a walking contradiction. He’s got charm for days and a reputation to match, but beneath all the rakish bravado is a man with a heart of unimaginable love.
When a surprise daughter and his grandmother’s ultimatum turn his world upside down, the Duke of Brandon is forced to find a wife—and fast. The only option that makes sense? Lottie. Unfortunately she's only looking for a booty buddy while Brandon has bigger plans — setting the stage for a fiery clash of wills, hearts, and explosive chemistry.
From Pandy and her mischievous dog, Cat, to Brandon’s unrelenting pursuit of Lottie and her battered heart, Duke with a Reputation will have you all up in your feelings. One minute you're bawling your eyes out and the next you're laughing through the tears. This book brings all the fun, all the feels, and all the heat you could want. Duke with a Reputation is a whole vibe that I highly recommend. Enjoy…and You're welcome.
“On your back.”
His cock twitched at the bold command.
“Why, Venus, do you intend to ravish me?”
“Thoroughly.”...
Another sultry smile curved her lips, her stormy eyes flicking to his. “I want you to come in my mouth.”
Holy f*ck, Batman! I picked up Duke with a Reputation as my first read of 2025, and this book had me straight stuck! Scarlett did her thing with this one, delivering a story that’s fun, emotional, and so dang good you won’t want to put it down.
The characters are the heart of this book, and Scarlett Scott knows exactly how to make them stand out. Every single one—human, canine, or fowl—leaps off the page with flaws, fire, and unforgettable presence starting with the Duke of Brandon and the Countess of Grenfell.
After years of being played and having her heart stomped on, Lottie is finally free—her husband’s death giving her the chance to reclaim her time and live life on her own terms. Sis is fearless, captivating and fully committed to living her best, drama-free life. Love and marriage? Nah, she's good. She has no rings, no strings, and no interest in catching feelings. But then the Duke of Brandon shows up with his smooth-talking charm, undeniable swagger and irresistible kid and my girl's “all me” vibe is looking a little “we”.
The Duke of Brandon is a walking contradiction. He’s got charm for days and a reputation to match, but beneath all the rakish bravado is a man with a heart of unimaginable love.
When a surprise daughter and his grandmother’s ultimatum turn his world upside down, the Duke of Brandon is forced to find a wife—and fast. The only option that makes sense? Lottie. Unfortunately she's only looking for a booty buddy while Brandon has bigger plans — setting the stage for a fiery clash of wills, hearts, and explosive chemistry.
From Pandy and her mischievous dog, Cat, to Brandon’s unrelenting pursuit of Lottie and her battered heart, Duke with a Reputation will have you all up in your feelings. One minute you're bawling your eyes out and the next you're laughing through the tears. This book brings all the fun, all the feels, and all the heat you could want. Duke with a Reputation is a whole vibe that I highly recommend. Enjoy…and You're welcome.
December 17, 2024
This book is AMAZING!! Scarlett Scott did it again!!! OMG these two are sooo good together!
The Duke of Brandon is London’s most infamous rake. But his world crashes to a decided halt when the sins of his past come back to haunt him in the form of one small she-devil of a child who has green eyes just like his. To make matters worse, his disapproving grandmother has decided he must marry or forfeit his inheritance.
Now, he has no choice but to raise a daughter, find a suitable wife, and keep his harridan grandmother from discovering his sordid secrets as founder of the Wicked Dukes Society. So when the tempting, fiery-haired Countess of Grenfell propositions him, he offers her something else instead—a marriage of convenience.
Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, is London’s most notorious widow. Her doomed, one-sided marriage left her with a broken heart and a determination never to wed again. What she wants is simple—passion, independence, and one night in the Duke of Brandon’s bed. She wouldn’t marry him, however, if he were the last man on earth.
OMG! The chemistry! The banter! The spice! These two are just absolutely perfect! The chemistry between Lottie and Brandon is so strong that you can almost feel it. There are many amazing hot scenes between them and it’s definitely one of those books you can’t stop reading even if your house is on fire! I finished it in one day!
Brando made me laugh out loud many times. And Pandy is soooo adorable! I want a kid just like her. Witty, smart and full of mischief, she stole my heart from the very begging. And of course Cat and its eating preferences. Lottie, my girl! What are you waiting for! Go for it! The romance is passionate, with deep emotional moments and hurtful confessions.
You don´t want to miss this one. For me, one the author’s best books (And I have read all of them!).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Duke of Brandon is London’s most infamous rake. But his world crashes to a decided halt when the sins of his past come back to haunt him in the form of one small she-devil of a child who has green eyes just like his. To make matters worse, his disapproving grandmother has decided he must marry or forfeit his inheritance.
Now, he has no choice but to raise a daughter, find a suitable wife, and keep his harridan grandmother from discovering his sordid secrets as founder of the Wicked Dukes Society. So when the tempting, fiery-haired Countess of Grenfell propositions him, he offers her something else instead—a marriage of convenience.
Lottie, Countess of Grenfell, is London’s most notorious widow. Her doomed, one-sided marriage left her with a broken heart and a determination never to wed again. What she wants is simple—passion, independence, and one night in the Duke of Brandon’s bed. She wouldn’t marry him, however, if he were the last man on earth.
OMG! The chemistry! The banter! The spice! These two are just absolutely perfect! The chemistry between Lottie and Brandon is so strong that you can almost feel it. There are many amazing hot scenes between them and it’s definitely one of those books you can’t stop reading even if your house is on fire! I finished it in one day!
Brando made me laugh out loud many times. And Pandy is soooo adorable! I want a kid just like her. Witty, smart and full of mischief, she stole my heart from the very begging. And of course Cat and its eating preferences. Lottie, my girl! What are you waiting for! Go for it! The romance is passionate, with deep emotional moments and hurtful confessions.
You don´t want to miss this one. For me, one the author’s best books (And I have read all of them!).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 4, 2025
I was intrigued by this book. Firstly, it's in the Gilded Age section on Amazon. It's set in the 1870s, but in London, so doesn't really fit that description, but that's a minor point. Secondly, Scarlett Scott (a pen-name if ever I saw one) writes about four books a year (maybe more?) - what would the quality like?
Well, the quality is just fine. It's well written: the pace is great, the characters engaging, the plotting is satisfying. Lottie, the Countess of Grenfell, wants to take the Duke of Brandon as a lover, having been told of his ability to give satisfaction. And my, the sex scenes are sizzling. The Duke needs to take a wife, however, so he can inherit a particular property. His rakish character is softened and made appealing through his dedication to his illegitimate daughter Pandora and her hilarious dog named Cat. Of course, it's Lottie's generosity towards Pandy and the dog that show she's also got sensitive depths. They fall in love, thank goodness, and the book has a satisfying ending.
So why only 3 stars?
Because I can't get over Scott choosing "Grenfell" as the name of the Countess. It's like she googled "places in London" and Grenfell tower came up. The reason people in the UK have heard of Grenfell is because of the dreadful, devastating, tragic fire of 2017, when dozens were trapped. 70 people were killed. It was the worst fire in the UK since the Blitz. There is also a race undercurrent, as the tower was in a poor area of the richest borough of London, and was the place where Black people and migrants were more likely to live - stuck in a death-trap tower with sub-standard cladding.
Honestly, it would be like an American naming a character "Countess of Sandy Hook."
It's so easy to change text of digital books. I'm begging the author to change this to the Countess of Greenfall, or something.
Well, the quality is just fine. It's well written: the pace is great, the characters engaging, the plotting is satisfying. Lottie, the Countess of Grenfell, wants to take the Duke of Brandon as a lover, having been told of his ability to give satisfaction. And my, the sex scenes are sizzling. The Duke needs to take a wife, however, so he can inherit a particular property. His rakish character is softened and made appealing through his dedication to his illegitimate daughter Pandora and her hilarious dog named Cat. Of course, it's Lottie's generosity towards Pandy and the dog that show she's also got sensitive depths. They fall in love, thank goodness, and the book has a satisfying ending.
So why only 3 stars?
Because I can't get over Scott choosing "Grenfell" as the name of the Countess. It's like she googled "places in London" and Grenfell tower came up. The reason people in the UK have heard of Grenfell is because of the dreadful, devastating, tragic fire of 2017, when dozens were trapped. 70 people were killed. It was the worst fire in the UK since the Blitz. There is also a race undercurrent, as the tower was in a poor area of the richest borough of London, and was the place where Black people and migrants were more likely to live - stuck in a death-trap tower with sub-standard cladding.
Honestly, it would be like an American naming a character "Countess of Sandy Hook."
It's so easy to change text of digital books. I'm begging the author to change this to the Countess of Greenfall, or something.
June 15, 2025
Rake falls first and hard
4.5/5 There’s something about the way Scarlett Scott develops characters that draws me in every time. Easily convincing me of Brandon’s reputation and Lottie’s feelings about remarrying. A point of contention for most of the story, they found ways to connect outside of intimate moments. They’re both stubborn and their back and forth quips built rapport with one another and it was fun for the reader.
Early on, Brandon finds out that he has a daughter from an old lover and is now solely responsible for her. Not only was I completely endeared to the child but she also wrapped herself around Brandon’s finger that saw him changing his ways quickly. It was nice that the change was brought on not just because of Lottie and made it more believable.
I love when the notorious rake falls first and hard - so it was fun to see Brandon go through this. Also really enjoyed Lottie being a Merry Widow and confident of how she wanted to live her life. Even if it was done more out of fear of being hurt again, I was glad to see she had the time to sort through those feelings and be in charge of her life.
The attention to historical details, writing, character development, steam level are all why I enjoyed this story and it reminded me of why Scott is an auto read author for me.
Duke with a Reputation is the first book in the Wicked Dukes Society series. It can be read following the last book in the Wicked Husband series, Her Virtuous Viscount. While most of Scott’s series are interconnected, this can still be read as a standalone. Her website provides a suggested reading order that’s helpful.
There are five encounters and the steam level is consistent with what I expect from Scott.
4.5/5 There’s something about the way Scarlett Scott develops characters that draws me in every time. Easily convincing me of Brandon’s reputation and Lottie’s feelings about remarrying. A point of contention for most of the story, they found ways to connect outside of intimate moments. They’re both stubborn and their back and forth quips built rapport with one another and it was fun for the reader.
Early on, Brandon finds out that he has a daughter from an old lover and is now solely responsible for her. Not only was I completely endeared to the child but she also wrapped herself around Brandon’s finger that saw him changing his ways quickly. It was nice that the change was brought on not just because of Lottie and made it more believable.
I love when the notorious rake falls first and hard - so it was fun to see Brandon go through this. Also really enjoyed Lottie being a Merry Widow and confident of how she wanted to live her life. Even if it was done more out of fear of being hurt again, I was glad to see she had the time to sort through those feelings and be in charge of her life.
The attention to historical details, writing, character development, steam level are all why I enjoyed this story and it reminded me of why Scott is an auto read author for me.
Duke with a Reputation is the first book in the Wicked Dukes Society series. It can be read following the last book in the Wicked Husband series, Her Virtuous Viscount. While most of Scott’s series are interconnected, this can still be read as a standalone. Her website provides a suggested reading order that’s helpful.
There are five encounters and the steam level is consistent with what I expect from Scott.
September 2, 2025
My Rating: 1.5 stars out of 5
I enjoy these novels because they’re quick, easy reads; the kind you can fly through in an day or two while relaxing. But just once, I’d love to see this author write a story that doesn’t rely so much on sex. Sometimes it feels like she relies on the physical side of things to do the emotional heavy lifting, and after a while the repetition starts to feel more like filler than genuine character development.
That said, the real stars of this book weren’t the Duke or Lottie, but his illegitimate daughter by someone else, Pandora (affectionately called Pandy) and her dog, ironically named Cat. Their antics brought a levity and charm that made me smile every time they were on the page.
On the flip side, I grew weary of Lottie’s single-minded focus on using the Duke for his prowess as a lover. For a character who had such strong convictions about never marrying again, her fixation wore thin quickly. Similarly, the Duke’s grandmother, who spent so much of the book disapproving both of her grandson and his child, suddenly not only becoming accepting of Pandy without really spending time with her, but also rescinding her ultimatum to Brandon, felt out of character.
And while I’m all for a little creative license in historical romance, the inclusion of a sex club just pushed the believability a step too far. In a contemporary romance? Sure. But in a historical setting, it struck me as absurd and pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this was a fun enough read, but between the overreliance on steamy scenes and some eyebrow-raising plot choices, it left me wishing for a bit more substance to balance out the scandal.
I enjoy these novels because they’re quick, easy reads; the kind you can fly through in an day or two while relaxing. But just once, I’d love to see this author write a story that doesn’t rely so much on sex. Sometimes it feels like she relies on the physical side of things to do the emotional heavy lifting, and after a while the repetition starts to feel more like filler than genuine character development.
That said, the real stars of this book weren’t the Duke or Lottie, but his illegitimate daughter by someone else, Pandora (affectionately called Pandy) and her dog, ironically named Cat. Their antics brought a levity and charm that made me smile every time they were on the page.
On the flip side, I grew weary of Lottie’s single-minded focus on using the Duke for his prowess as a lover. For a character who had such strong convictions about never marrying again, her fixation wore thin quickly. Similarly, the Duke’s grandmother, who spent so much of the book disapproving both of her grandson and his child, suddenly not only becoming accepting of Pandy without really spending time with her, but also rescinding her ultimatum to Brandon, felt out of character.
And while I’m all for a little creative license in historical romance, the inclusion of a sex club just pushed the believability a step too far. In a contemporary romance? Sure. But in a historical setting, it struck me as absurd and pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this was a fun enough read, but between the overreliance on steamy scenes and some eyebrow-raising plot choices, it left me wishing for a bit more substance to balance out the scandal.
May 30, 2025
The heroine is a merry widow Lottie, living her best life after the death of her philandering husband, and she is an excellent, egalitarian match for the likeable rake hero Brandon. He is presented with an out-of-wedlock child at the beginning of the book and his grandmother demands that he get serious and marry or else a major piece of real estate (where he and his buddies have a sex club) will go to some cousin. Therefore, Brandon has to marry to secure a major part of inheritance and also to provide a mother for his four-year-old daughter. Through a sequence of events, he and Lottie, a widowed countess who only wants to have sex and is dead-set on never marrying again and rejects his early proposal, end up spending a lot of time together, get to know each other, and fall in love with each other and with Brandon's daughter Pandora and her dog named Cat (they are both adorable). The on-page sex between these two sexually experienced people is very hot, and the development of their emotional relationship is described quite believably. Unlike with most rake heroes, where I can't figure out why he's fallen in love with a generic virgin heroine who's too young for him, Lottie is a grown woman, with smarts and charm and personality and heart, so it's entirely clear why someone like Brandon would become smitten (strong, self-possessed heroines like Lottie are my favorite). She and Brandon are likeable both separately and together, and the book was an enjoyable read overall, between 4 and 5 stars for me.
June 24, 2025
A quick, spicy palate cleanser with a surprisingly satisfying emotional core. Duke With a Reputation was just what I needed after a string of heavier reads—fun, fast-paced, and delightfully trope-y in the best way. Bonus points for a scandalous widow heroine, a cinnamon-roll duke, and the cutest daughter subplot. 3.5 stars!
This was the perfect click cleanser after a string of dark and emotionally exhausting reads. I actually really enjoyed both leads—there was genuine chemistry and warmth between them that made their relationship feel real and earned.
It was also so refreshing to have a heroine who’s a promiscuous widow and not weighed down by the typical “innocent virgin” baggage. Thank you, Scarlett Scott, for sparing us that nonsense.
Pandora (the duke’s daughter) was a charming little addition—adorable without being cloying—and added a soft sweetness to the story.
And yes, I always forget how spicy Scott’s books are until I’m halfway into a scene thinking: oh right… this is that kind of historical romance. 😅 It was a little much for me in parts, but it didn’t overpower the story like it sometimes can in her other books.
All in all, this was a quick, satisfying read that scratched the exact itch I had: something romantic, slightly ridiculous, and guaranteed to deliver a happy ending.
Rating: 3.5 stars
This was the perfect click cleanser after a string of dark and emotionally exhausting reads. I actually really enjoyed both leads—there was genuine chemistry and warmth between them that made their relationship feel real and earned.
It was also so refreshing to have a heroine who’s a promiscuous widow and not weighed down by the typical “innocent virgin” baggage. Thank you, Scarlett Scott, for sparing us that nonsense.
Pandora (the duke’s daughter) was a charming little addition—adorable without being cloying—and added a soft sweetness to the story.
And yes, I always forget how spicy Scott’s books are until I’m halfway into a scene thinking: oh right… this is that kind of historical romance. 😅 It was a little much for me in parts, but it didn’t overpower the story like it sometimes can in her other books.
All in all, this was a quick, satisfying read that scratched the exact itch I had: something romantic, slightly ridiculous, and guaranteed to deliver a happy ending.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews