A Scoundrel by Moonlight

Sons of Sin #4

by Anna Campbell

Anything can happen in the moonlight . . .

Justice. That's all Nell Trim wants-for her sister and for the countless other young women the Marquess of Leath has ruined with his wildly seductive ways. Now she has a bold plan to take him down . . . as long as she can resist the scoundrel's temptations herself.

From the moment Nell meets James Fairbrother, the air positively sizzles. Yet for all his size and power, there's something amazingly tender in his touch. Could he really be such a depraved rogue? The only way to find out is to beat the devil at his own game . . . one tempting kiss at a time.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Regency, Audiobook, Historical Fiction, Enemies To Lovers

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 28, 2015

About the author

I've written 53 bestselling historical romances: 11 multi-award winning books for Hachette Grand Central Publishing and Avon HarperCollins, and more than 40 as an independently published author, These include my popular series The Sons of Sin (6 books), The Dashing Widows (7 books), The Lairds Most Likely (10 books), A Scandal in Mayfair (4 books), and Scoundrels of Mayfair (4 books). My new series, Cinderellas of Mayfair, launched with Sir Hugo Seeks a Wife in 2025.

When I'm not touring the world seeking inspiration for my passionate stories, I live on the beautiful east coast of Australia.

I've always been a voracious reader and I delve into many different genres, as you'll see if you check out my books list. Favorite authors include Dorothy Dunnett, Elly Griffiths, K.J. Charles, and Loretta Chase.

My website is http://www.annacampbell.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annacampbell...

Twitter: AnnaCampbellOz

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Anna-Campbell/...

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/anna-...

I love to hear from readers and you can contact me on AnnaCampbellOz@hotmail.com

Reviews

[Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another captivating story from the incomparable Anna Campbell.

How I imagine James Fairbrother, Marquess of Leath


James has long been a powerful and ambitious figure in the political arena and the ultimate goal of Prime Minister seems within his reach. Now revelations of his late Uncle Neville’s crimes and his sister Sophie’s ill-timed elopement with a penniless younger son have left the Fairbrother name synonymous with scandal and his political hopes in jeopardy. He is advised to retreat to his country estate, Alloway Chase, until the gossip has eventually blown over. What he doesn’t expect is that his mother has employed a companion, a certain Miss Trim, whom he neither likes nor trusts but whose very presence elicits all sorts of inappropriate thoughts.

How I imagine Eleanor Trim


Eleanor made a solemn promise to her dying step-sister, Dorothy, that she would seek revenge on the Marquess of Leath, the blackguard who seduced Dorothy and then callously abandoned her when she was with child. Eleanor must find the diary he kept, detailing his seductions of other innocent young women, and publicly expose his villainy. Using forged references, she manages to obtain a position at Alloway Chase as companion to the marquess’s mother The position offers plenty of opportunity for her to search for the incriminating diary. What she doesn’t expect is the sudden appearance of the marquess himself or the unwanted attraction she feels towards him.

The real highlight of this book for me was watching the growing relationship between James and Eleanor. I loved the initial back-and-forth verbal sparring between them and the strong undeniable attraction. It’s an attraction that doesn’t sit well with either of them. James doesn’t like or trust her and Eleanor refuses to admit that she finds the man who ruined her half-sister attractive. However, James is not at all as she imagined and everything she learns about him belies his reputation as a despoiler of innocent young women. When James’s secretary is injured, he reluctantly agrees to his mother’s suggestion that Eleanor should assume the role temporarily making it impossible for them to avoid each other. Eleanor is forced to learn to ride to accompany James on visits to the estate and their repartee is delightful.

He stepped back. “How do you feel?”
She looked unsure. “Like I’m sitting on a volcano that’s about to erupt.”
He snickered. “Old Snowflake is pushing twenty, Miss Trim. It he erupts, it will be a mind-numbingly speedy stroll.”

I was surprised by the lengthy love scene but in a good way . It lacked the slightly erotic feel that I have come to expect from Anna Campbell but, in terms of the characters, I think it worked beautifully. I enjoyed the feeling of playfulness, the tenderness and the deep emotional connection between James and Eleanor.

By the time her hair flowed around her, Leath breathed in gusts. His hands touched her delicately, as if the slightest fumble might shatter her.
Then nothing.
Slowly, reluctantly, she opened her eyes. Leath stared at her as though she was a star fallen from heaven to light his way.
“It’s glorious.” her heart expanded at the awe in his voice.
“You’re glorious.”

I wasn’t happy with Eleanor’s actions when she finds the letters from the young women. It seemed inconceivable to me that, after everything that had happened between them and everything she knew in her heart, she would readily believe the worst of James without even giving him the chance to explain. It felt like a terrible act of betrayal and I don’t think she did enough grovelling for all the anguish she caused the poor man!

However, I did understand her reasons for not accepting James’s marriage proposal. She knew that if she married James he would lose everything he had worked for and she wouldn’t let that happen. However, James realised that he had dedicated his life to fulfilling his father’s dreams, not his own…that managing his estate and sharing his life with the woman he loved were far more fulfilling than any political career.

Jonas and Sidonie (Seven Nights in a Rogue’s Bed) and Richard and Genevieve (A Rake’s Midnight Kiss) and Camden and Penelope (What a Duke Dares) all make welcome appearances. James has always been a loner and so I loved that Cam, Richard and Jonas offer him genuine friendship and also provide him with valuable allies in his dramatic confrontation with the villainous Greengrass.

I can always rely on Ms Campbell to satisfy my desire for a heart-warming Epilogue. Perhaps I’ll let Penelope Rothermere, Duchess of Sedgemoor, have the final word.

“Of course. We could all see that you were head over heels and that once you’d sorted out your differences, you’d be perfect for each other.”

MY VERDICT: Another wonderful addition to this delightful series. Definitely recommended.

REVIEW RATING: 4.5/5 STARS

The Sons of Sin series (click the covers for more details):



My sincere thanks to Anna Campbell for sending me a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.

This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:

https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...

[WhiskeyintheJar · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I loved the beginning of this book with our leads' interactions that were at turns hot, smart, and challenging. The middle started to drag for me a bit with, don't crucify me, an overabundance of bedroom scenes. I really enjoy my verbal seduction, I like the bedroom door open but I'm not one to linger. The last half seemed a bit forced with Eleanor flying off the handle and suddenly losing her deductive reasoning and common sense for added angst.
I didn't read the previous books in the series and while this works as a standalone, I think I missed gaining some satisfaction from Leath getting his story; I was a big fan of his seemingly dark, brooding, and arrogant character that melted in Eleanor's presence.
The beginning chemistry between our leads has me thinking I need to read more Anna Campbell books and after getting glimpses of them in this book, I'm immediately adding What a Duke Dares to my tbr. It's the book that precedes this one and while I know I should start at the beginning of the series, I can't help myself, I must see how the duke and Penelope get together.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is the fourth book in Anna Campbell’s Sons of Sin series, but although some characters from the previous books appear and there are some references to events therein, it can easily be read as a standalone. It opens upon Miss Eleanor – Nell – Trim, as she tries to comfort her dying half-sister, Dorothy. The latter has experienced complications following the birth of a still-born child, and in her last moments, exhorts her sister to find the man who seduced her and expose him as a ruthless despoiler of innocents – for she knows that she was not his only victim.

Nell is surprised, but Dorothy goes on to tell her that the man not only derided her when she announced her pregnancy by telling her of his experiences with other women, but that he kept a diary of all his seductions. If Nell can find that and put it into the right hands, it will ruin him forever. With her dying breath, Dorothy names the man as the Marquess of Leath.

Leath – James Fairbrother - has appeared in earlier books in the series as rather an arrogant, coldly villainous figure. He is a man of wealth, power and influence, a skilled politician who looks set to rise to the highest office, but the recent scandals surrounding his disreputable uncle’s suicide and his sister’s elopement have caused a lot of unpleasant gossip, and his political masters “suggest” that he repair to his Yorkshire estates to wait for the furore to die down. Leath is aghast – but has no alternative and heads home to Alloway Chase.

On his first night back, he is surprised to discover a young woman creeping around in his library in the early hours of the morning, and naturally demands to know what she’s doing. Confronted with Leath’s dark, towering presence for the first time, the girl is clearly nervous, but stands her ground, informing him that she is looking for something to read, and introducing herself as Nell Trim – a housemaid in his employ. Leath is justifiably suspicious – the young woman is well-spoken, literate and nowhere near as deferential as a servant should be – but given the late hour and his exhaustion, he lets it go. For now.

The next day, when visiting his mother’s chambers, he encounters the lovely Nell again, and discovers that she’s not a housemaid at all, but rather his mother’s companion. Leath is not at all happy, given his suspicious about the young woman, and makes his displeasure plain. But he hides the other problem he has with Miss Trim’s presence, namely that he is unexpectedly in the throes of an intense desire for her, the like of which he’s never previously experienced. He’s a man given to caution and strategy, and certainly not one given to being led around by what’s in his breeches. Rationally, he knows that as an innocent, and as his employee, Nell is firmly off limits. But her beauty, bearing and obvious lack of obsequiousness intrigue and arouse him to a fever pitch.

Leath’s presence in the house has somewhat stalled Nell’s search for the incriminating diary, and has started to confuse her intensely. She finds his darkly austere features and large, athletic build incredibly attractive, and keeps reminding herself that she needs to be on her guard against him - but as the days pass and she sees his solicitude and love for his invalid mother, the fairness with which he treats his staff and tenants, and the amount of sheer hard work he puts into managing his estates, a different picture emerges to the one painted by her sister. The Leath she is coming to know is a decent, deeply honourable man, which only adds to his potent physical attractions. But as he’s a peer of the realm and she’s a housemaid, the daughter of a mere soldier, there is only one way for them to be together – and it’s not an honourable one.

Ms Campbell skilfully shows the reader that these are two people who are meant for each other, and how the strict social hierarchy of the time stands between them, making this a little different from your average master/servant romance. Both Nell and Leath really do struggle with the decisions they have to make about their relationship, and it’s not easy for either of them. The strength of their feelings for each other can’t be denied – but just as it seems they have achieved a degree of happiness, Nell makes a shocking discovery that turns her world upside down.

This my favourite book of the series, although I have thoroughly enjoyed each of the others, too. While the relationship between Nell and Leath is certainly born of a strong physical attraction, this is no mere case of insta-lust and nothing more. Ms Campbell develops the romance very well and builds the sexual tension with incredible skill. She adeptly turns Leath into a wonderful hero – strong, clever, caring and ultimately prepared to risk all for the sake of the woman he loves, and Nell matches him all the way. She stands up to him when necessary, supports him, and wants the best for him, even if that has to come at the expense of her own happiness.

A Scoundrel by Moonlight is a terrific read, and one I'd defintely recommend to anyone who enjoys a strongly-written, character-driven historical romance.

[Izzah ꒰Duchess of Cabria ಇ ⭑✧ ᴏɴ ᴘᴀᴛʀᴇᴏɴ ✧ ⋆꒱ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweeter than what I would expect from AC

This was almost cozy. I don't do cozy romance, yet I enjoyed it.


࿔*:･ The plot
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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[Caz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've given this an A for narration and B+ for content at AAR, which is technically 4.75 stars overall, I suppose - so I'm rounding up to 5 stars.


In A Scoundrel by Moonlight, the fourth book in Anna Campbell’s Sons of Sin series, the hero has a slightly different background to that of the other three, who are united by long-standing friendship and through the scandal they have weathered owing to the fact that they are all illegitimate. There are no such questions over the parentage of James Fairbrother, Marquess of Leath, who has appeared as rather a villainous figure in the previous books, although like the other men, he now finds himself the subject of unpleasant gossip. A man of vast political power and ambition, Leath has a reputation for iron control and implacability, but the taint of scandal resulting from his nefarious uncle’s suicide (A Rake's Midnight Kiss)and his sister’s elopement (What a Duke Dares) has led his political masters to “suggest” that perhaps he needs a break from London to allow the gossip to die down. Frustrated and angry, he takes himself off to Yorkshire, hoping this enforced period of rustication will not last for too long.

In order to fulfill the deathbed promise made to her younger sister, Miss Eleanor (Nell) Trim has taken a position in the household of Alloway Chase, Leath’s Yorkshire estate. Nell’s younger sister died in childbed and made Nell swear to expose the identity of and the crimes perpetrated upon her and many other young women by her seducer. She discovered that the man actually kept a diary in which he stored details of his encounters with all the other girls he had ruined – and names him as none other than the Marquess of Leath.

On his first night back home, Leath is surprised to encounter a young woman snooping around in his library in the early hours of the morning, and naturally demands to know what she is doing. Nell, who is searching for the diary her sister spoke of, is intimidated by her employer’s darkly forceful presence, but refuses to kowtow to him, standing her ground and explaining that she’s a housemaid. The marquess is suspicious – she’s well-spoken, literate, and doesn’t carry herself like a servant, but he lets it go, determined to find out more. The next day, he encounters the delectable Miss Trim again and discovers that she’s actually his mother’s companion, something about which he’s not at all happy. He doesn’t trust her, and worse, for a man not given to sudden sexual urges, is shocked and annoyed at the powerful physical desire he feels for her, which given Miss Trim’s status as an employee, puts her firmly off limits.

Having believed the marquess to be a cruel, rapacious seducer, Nell is surprised by his kindness to and obvious love for his invalid mother, his fairness towards his staff, and by his industriousness when it comes to taking care of his estates and tenants. By every word and action, Leath reveals himself to be a decent, honourable man and gradually, Nell comes to realise that he can’t be the man her sister had described. The intensity of their mutual attraction is palpable and leaps off the page, but both of them know they don’t have a future together. He’s a peer of the realm with a glittering political career ahead of him, and she’s the daughter of a mere sergeant-major; marriage isn’t an option so they only way they can possibly be together is for Nell to become Leath’s mistress. It’s something they both struggle with; to sleep with a man outside of marriage goes against everything Nell has been taught, but she’s deeply in love and is torn between upholding her morals and pursing a course which will bring her happiness for as long as it lasts. And Leath, whose sexual liaisons have previously been confined to women of experience, knows what he’s asking of an innocent young woman but his feelings run just as deeply as Nell’s and he can’t find it in himself to walk away.

The relationship between the protagonists crackles with sexual tension right from their first meeting, and the choices they face are realistically portrayed. The class differences between them are fully recognised, as are the problems which could arise as the result of an illicit liaison. But just as it seems that happiness – albeit temporary – is within their grasp, Nell makes a heartbreaking discovery that overturns everything she has come to believe about the man she loves.

The scenes in which Nell confronts Leath with her knowledge, and the way he doesn’t try to bulldoze her concerns, but rather asks her to think back over the weeks of their relationship and own what she knows to be the truth are affecting and very well done. Characters from the other books make a reappearance towards the end of the story, and I especially enjoyed the way they welcome Leith – a very solitary man, in spite of wide circle of influence and acquaintance - into their circle, regardless of their previous enmity. I always enjoy well-written friendships, and even though this rapprochement doesn’t take place until late in the book, it’s a definite high point.

I may have raved – just a bit! - about Steve West’s performance in What a Duke Dares – and have had my fingers crossed ever since that he’d return as narrator for Leath’s book. He is a superb vocal actor and his delicious baritone is an absolute pleasure to listen to. He makes the most of an extensive vocal range that allows him to use a higher pitch for the female characters without resorting to falsetto, as well as to find a suitably gravelly tone at the lower end for the hulking Jonas Merrick. His portrayal of both principals is excellent; Leath is described as being a large man, “built like a prize-fighter”, and Mr West voices him accordingly, employing a deeply resonant tone that is by turns commanding and tender, and which he uses to knee-weakening effect in the love scenes. He expertly brings out Leath’s admirable characteristics – softer notes when speaking with his mother, his underlying dry humour in many of his exchanges with Nell – but there is no mistaking that this is a man of influence and power. Mr West’s interpretations of the secondary characters are just as good, and he differentiates very effectively between the heroes of the previous books and their wives in the scenes in which they all appear together. The narrative is expressive and well-paced, and all in all, this is a wonderfully characterised and emotionally resonant performance. I can’t wait to hear more from this highly talented narrator.

[Jonetta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on The Book Nympho

Nell Trim's half sister, on her deathbed, disclosed the name of the man who'd impregnated and abandoned her. She asked Nell to avenge her by seeking out the Marquess of Leath, James Fairbrother, and making him atone for her ruin. But when Nell gets herself in the employ of James' mother to find the evidence her sister spoke of, what she finds is a man in direct conflict with her characterization. James and Nell ultimately find themselves hopelessly drawn to each other despite their differences in station.

Finally a story where the realities of class differences are honestly dealt with in the romance. The decisions that both Nell and James make to be with each other are difficult but reflect the depths of their feelings within the confines of societal norms. I loved how their relationship evolved, completely in tandem with who they are, both mistrustful of the other but well aware of the inappropriateness of their attraction.

I liked both of them for completely different reasons and found them admirable for the courageous decisions they made to be together. James' transformation was the most profound and perfectly captured as he journeyed from the singularly driven political animal to a man who comes to value love and family.

I wasn't excited about reading James' story as he didn't seem to be all that interesting at first blush but who knew the man had so many layers and would be more than the brute he appeared to be. And, it's a seductive romance, slowly drawing you in and endearing both characters before you realize it...a perfect addition to the series.

(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)

[Ursula · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh.
So boring- interminable to-ing and fro-ing, dumb heroine and somewhat dull hero. No spark or sexual tension. Stopped listening at about 30%.
Also, I dislike stories where the hero offers the heroine a carte blanche. Not romantic at all. Just selfish.
I liked the narrator’s voice, though, and will look for more by him.
I think Anna Campbell may not be for me.
(Probably didn’t help that I have just finished listening to a Loretta Chase HR.)

[Missy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note: Sex up against the library wall, oh, my!

[ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...] · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book... for more, visit Punya Reviews...

Another disappointing installment in Anna Cambell’s Sons of Sin series, A Scoundrel by Moonlight started out rather well. I was rooting for the Marquess of Leath even after his disastrous intro in the previous installments and wanted to know more about him. Unfortunately, Nell Trim, the h, was the one who ruined it for me pretty much.

The Sons of Sin series basically tells the story of 3 friends who are burdened by the truth of their illegitimate birth, the one thing they have in common and made them stick together since they met as children, to fight the judgmental society. In their adulthood, Jonas, Richard and Cam are still together in their struggle, even though they are privileged people of the society. We’ve read their stories in the previous installments where each of them found love in the women they came to adore.

In Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed, dark and scarred Jonas Merrick used to hide away in his gothic castle and had a scandalous reputation as a prolific gambler and a lady’s man. When Sidonie comes to his doorstep in hopes to help her flighty sister off a gambling debt held by Jonas, the rogue in question drives a hard bargain. She has to spend seven nights in his bed, all his to do whatever he wants to and he’ll do whatever possible to help her. In the end, that bargain was all they needed as Jonas found love with Sidonie.

In book 2 A Rake's Midnight Kiss, a connoisseur of latest fashion and the darling of the Ton, the charming rake Richard Harmsworth finds himself in a dilemma. He was tired of all the gossip surrounding his birth, and to save the tattered family reputation, he needed to find the Harmsworth family jewel. It could’ve been also that he was bored with everything, so this crazy scheme takes him to this quaint little village and the doorstep of the vicar; a quest, completed with a masquerade, proved nothing but trouble. Little did he know he was going in for his downfall... by love. Genevieve, the vicar’s brilliant and beautiful daughter steals Richard’s heart right then and there. But they didn’t have it easy by any means when Genevieve’s suitor, an elderly peer named Neville Fairbrother, begins to become the source of all their troubles. When Neville proves to be a worm of the lowest kind and tries to rape Genevieve to force her hand, Richard saves her. All these were taking place near Camden Rothermere, the Duke of Sedgemoor’s country estate so he steps in to help Richard and Genevieve. It’s then Neville knew that his time in this world has come to an end because all his dirty deeds will be made public. He decides to end his life by committing suicide, though his crony, Greengrass escapes.

In What a Duke Dares, book 3, the serious Duke was finally going to meet his match, or so I thought. But he’d known Penelope Thorne for a long time as her eldest brother, Peter, was his close friend. Though he wanted to marry Pen and proposed, she refused because she knew Cam didn’t love her, while she was head-other-heels in love with him. A life of resentment was something Pen didn’t want, and so she left for the. 12 yrs. later, Cam had promised Peter on his deathbed that he’d find Pen and bring her back to England. When they meet again, it was a clash of emotions, a game of highly attuned chemistry between two people who had wanted each-other for a long time. Cam didn’t believe in love due to the mockery of love that he’d witnessed between his parents. But he wanted Pen and when they end up kissing, he proposes her to be his mistress… Er, seriously Duke? She’s your best friend’s sister and that’s the best you got just because you thought she’s not young and virginal enough to marry? *SMH*

Of course, Pen wasn’t young anymore but she was a virgin and was seriously angry at Cam and his blasted arrogance. I mean yah the snotty duke hadn’t seen it coming. But then, their adventure (or misadventure) finally lands on the shores of England, where they’re forced to marry to save Pen’s reputation. Talk about misery for that girl whom I absolutely adored from the beginning. Cam, on the other hand, was making me wanna throw my reader on the wall. It was ruined due to Cam’s presumptuous behavior. And he was ever so suspicious of Pen because of her own family’s not-so-stellar reputation. That suspicion got to a point that I couldn’t take it anymore! There was a secondary romance between Pen’s younger, wastrel of a brother Harry and Leath’s sister, Sophie. That was another mess waiting to happen. Though the young couple was crazy in love, Leath didn’t care neither for Harry nor his family. And though Pen wanted to help his brother, she also knew Cam and Leath were at the odds of the worst kind. They were enemies and any help would only serve to ruin his trust. Even then, Pen helps the lovelorn couple. When, seeing the opportunity the young lovers elope, Leath shows up at Cam’s doorstep, strongly accusing him.

Unsurprisingly, when Pen confesses, Cam hurts her with his cold and cutting remarks once again... It takes one of Leath’s punch meant for Harry accidentally landing on Pen, and to witness her unconscious form on the floor for Cam to believe that he actually loves his wife! Don’t believe it? Believe it! So yah, I was absolutely not impressed by his words of love and devotion. Leath, on the other hand, was horrified by what he’d done! It served him right to be so temperamental, acting out rashly. But gradually, this incident, and Sophie-Harry’s marriage, help them somehow overcome their differences and to try and start a new chapter.

I wanted to recount a bit of the story since all the books were interconnected thru the characters. You now know why Leath or James Fairbrothers’ character didn’t start out all so well. When I read him to be a seducer in the blurb of his book, I just about died laughing. Leath, a seducer? Couldn’t have been far from the truth. He always seemed, whatever we’ve seen of him throughout the series, like a wounded bear who need relaxation and affection. He was too much of a perfectionist in everything; be it living his own life or his high aspiration in politics and drove himself hard. He also loved being in control and plan things his way to get his desired result. Then he also seemed to have a temper... No wonder I was intrigued!

When I wrote in my pre-review comment of A Scoundrel by Moonlight that Nell Trim needs to thrash James with love, I meant it. He needed love to feel what Harry and Sophie was feeling. Well, thrash him she did, but not with love but rejection, over and over and over and over again. This is definitely was not what I wanted for James! Not at all.

James Fairbrother had been groomed to become the ‘perfect’ marquess to carry on the Fairbrother family name. He’s probably the most unlikely Sons of Sin because there’s nothing scandalous or shameful either about or surrounding his birth. He’s very much legitimate. James’ father was a brilliant man. The family have always been politically ambitious but his father couldn’t make it to the highly sought after rank of the Prime Minister before his death. His mother was also the same, so after her husband’s passing, James was brought up with his goals for life; the perfect personality, education, poise and reputation of a future Prime Minister. It’s her dream and James would have to make it come true.

James has always maintained his spotless reputation. Even his liaisons with OWs were few and far between, with complete discretion and with women who knew not to expect more because the Marquess of Leath can’t just up and marry anyone. His every move for his future had been thoughtfully planned. Or so it had been before the bane of his existence, the one shame of their family, his ne’er-do-well uncle Neville had committed suicide. Not only that, with his death, all his misdeeds came into light and put Fairbrother name to shame, their pristine reputation to shambles. To make matters worse, Sophie went and eloped with another good-for-nothing wastrel when he’d planned her marriage to a very close political ally, Lord Desborough, who was probably old enough to be Sophie’s uncle, if not father. But James only saw how the match will further his own political career. Sophie wasn’t at all happy, though she would’ve done her duty hadn’t she met Harry. All these and James’ very sarcastic and cruel treatment of Harry made me doubtful about him.

Surprisingly enough, in his book, I saw a very different ma; a James that the world rarely sees because he always maintains that cold and distant façade. People are more or less scared of his temper; no one wants to deal with that. But James in private isn’t like that. When the story opens up, James just arrived at his country estate, Alloway Chase, to stay a while, until all that recent scandals die down. He isn’t happy because he loves the power he has when he’s at the House of Lords, parrying with a fellow politician. Unfortunately, there’s nothing much to be done in that regard.

We then found a James who absolutely adores his ailing mother and worries over her ill health. This is also where he meets Nell Trim, her mother’s companion. Nell is beautiful, soft spoken and kind hearted. James could see it all. He also finds himself attracted to her, though James lives by the rule to never to associate with ones’ servants, ever! He’s simply not that type. Yet, why does Nell Trim makes him think things that he shouldn’t be thinking about a servant?

Nell, on the other hand, had an ulterior motive in seeking out work at Alloway Chase; a vengeful one at that. Her younger half-sister, Dorothy, died a couple of months ago in childbirth, the child also dying with her. She was seduced by someone as Dorothy called ‘The Marquess of Leath’ with sweet words and promises, who later simply laughed at her face when she informed that she was pregnant. The man in question also showed a diary detailing all his debaucheries which spoke volume of his revolting character. It seemed seducing unsuspecting, innocent country maids is his hobby. In her deathbed, Dorothy urged Nell to avenge her death. Nell is an orphan; her father was in the army who died in service. Her mother married this elderly scholar whom she has come to know as a replacement father. After her passing, Nell brought up Dorothy. Both sisters were beautiful if I remember correctly but Nell never married, for what I assumed, was due to her lack of dowry? That part about why she remained unmarried was a little vague. In fact, Nell’s life before her presence at Alloway Chase was very vague. Even her step-father was only mentioned a few times in the story but was never seen or heard, neither did we know his reaction to Dorothy’s death and beyond. Nell never revisited her home.

Anyhoo, moving on... So Nell had been angry. Even if Dorothy was young and flightly, she didn’t deserve such a death at only 18. As a part of her plan, Nell sought work here. Luckily enough, she got an entrance as a maid. But Nell is no housemaid. She was given an education and her speech was nothing like that of a servant. James’ mother noticed it too. She also found her very intelligent and pleasant, so, very soon, Nell was promoted as her companion. Nell likes the Dowager Countess a lot so she’s a bit worried over this charade she’s playing at; something that’ll unravel sooner or later and hurt her. But she can’t veer away from her true goal, no matter how darkly good-looking the rogue in question is. Besides Nell knew she had to wait for James to visit this house if she had to get a hold of that blasted diary. Surely no seducer would leave that type of ‘trophy’ just anywhere. Nell would retrieve it, then take it to Leath’s known enemy, The Duke of Sedgemoor and destroy him!

Oook.

What happens next, when James comes to ‘rusticate’ for a couple of months, is pretty predictable. He falls head over heels for his mother’s beautiful companion, whom he’d caught snooping about his bedchamber (you can guess why, though Poor James had no idea). He’s that type of man, honorable and true and when he falls, he just does. There’s no rhythm or rhyme to it. A few stolen kisses and fondling only whet the man’s appetite, though the companion in question is reluctant. In Nell’s mind, she thinks she should be disgusted, yet James’ kisses and caresses only fuels her long buried passion. She tries to reason a lot with herself but ultimately, after spending more time with him, seeing him taking care of his mother and being gracious to the servants and his tenants, Nell’s hatred begins to transform into at first, liking and respect... then, into something much deeper. She couldn’t even believe that this is the same man who’d treated Dorothy, and if the diary’s contents were correct, many other innocent girls so cruelly! She begins to become attached to James, knowing this might end in heartbreak anyway, even if he’s not the same person Dorothy had accused.

As stated above, James was simply mad about Nell. No questions asked. At that point, he knew he can’t marry her due to his status and political aspirations. So the only path open was to make her his mistress. At one point, Nell also consents to that proposal. She also knew that marriage is out of question, and he has promised to take care of her always (in Nell’s mind, as long as their liaison lasts), so she’d take whatever she can of him. Can’t say I was happy about this virgin-in-heat decision of Nell since she had no idea what she’s consenting into by wanting to become the mistress of a peer. But at that time, nothing could’ve stopped them, so she leaves the Dowager’s employ with an excuse and James sets her up in a faraway cottage with all the provisions and luxury they might need for their tryst.

In the middle of the story, what that sleazy Greengrass had been doing is revealed; also the fact that he had the elusive diary in his possession. It was also clear as the daylight by then as to who was the real seducer and why he’d taken James’ name when he did his dirty deed. Neville Fairbrother was a vile man and would’ve done anything to ruin James’ reputation out of spite. After his death, when the letters from unknown women started coming in, James knew he’s in a big trouble. To cover up his uncle’s sordid affairs, he had been paying off these women. He felt sorrow as most of these women had illegitimate children from that association and had no one else to turn to. They were simply desperate and James had a plan to help them as long as he could, without divulging the fact that he’s not the man who’d ruined them. Now Greengrass was mad about Neville’s demise but he wasn’t far above using this whole situation to his own gain; blackmail James for a hefty some in exchange of the diary.

Back to James and Nell’s tryst. I’ve nothing to comment on their first time together but things started going downhill the very next day. I have NO IDEA why would James bring those freakin’ letters when he was coming to visit Nell! It was way too convenient IMO to create a stupid misunderstanding, seeing he never explained to her about his uncle’s misdeeds. Talking would’ve solved things but Nell, on seventh haven from a night full of sex, was already addle-brained. She finds his bag, which I might add was conveniently open so that she couldn’t resist a pick inside. She sees the letters and et voila, comes to the conclusion that James had all along been the vile seducer she’d been looking for! Next she goes on auto-pilot, grabs the letters and runs towards Sedgemoor’s place to see her original plan thru. Nothing that they shared previously, not the tenderness and consideration that James had shown so far mattered. All simply went out of her mind.

*someone shoot me now*

If you think that was bad, you still don’t know it all. At Cam’s, Nell is welcomed but by then he and James had come to an unexpected but strong understanding, so Cam holds back taking any action. Instead, he informs James of the latest development. James, on the other hand, was going nuts. He knew about Dorothy and when he couldn’t find the letters, instantly understood what had happened. When, at Cam’s, he tries to explain to Nell, first she wouldn’t listen, then they had this awkward sex in the library *headdesk*, then James, out of despair proposes to her and Nell rejects him up front. And that was only the beginning... What.a.mess!

After seeing Cam’s trust in James, Nell gradually begins to believe that James wasn’t the culprit. Even then, their relationship remains on the rocks. When Greengrass’s latest letter comes in, Cam, Richard and Jonas band together to help James, welcoming him into their fold or so to speak. But when they ride out next day to act on their plan, Nell follows them. She didn’t want to be left behind, even when James requested her to stay back at Cam’s. She puts her foot down and demands to be taken with them so that she can also ‘witness’ it all. *eyeroll* Thankfully, when they go out to confront Greengrass, Nell remains at the inn this time. But Greengrass escapes their clutches, injuring James in the process.

At night, James, again, proposes Nell but she wasn’t listening. Now she was more scared of the social stigma and James’ subsequent ‘fall from grace’ if he marries his housemaid. I would’ve agreed with her but the man was so in love, that he even acknowledged his feelings, I simply don’t know where Nell found the courage to deny him again! I was wondering, does she even love him if society is what she can think of when he’s on his knees, begging her to marry him? I could plainly see that James has had a change of perspective where his life was concerned. He now knew that so far, he’d lived the life that was planned for him, not how he wanted to live it. Nell was the stream to quench his thirst for living a full life; a life that’s not wound tightly by the rigid rules and expectations. He needed that so badly that he tried to make Nell understand it. He simply wanted a chance. But she was adamant that one day he’d have a change of heart and he’d resent her. End of story. *SMH*

When they can come to no conclusion and Nell rejects James for the umpteenth time, I was about to shoot something myself. It was horrible! Then, again, very conveniently, when she should’ve gone to her room with Greengrass on the loose, she goes into the garden for a ‘breath of fresh air’ in the middle of the night... and willingly steps into Greengrass’s trap. Don’t even ask!

It takes a bullet grazing her head for our Nell Trim to come to her senses. That life’s too short to let love slip by when you’ve found it.

By the time the story ended, I was glad that it did. I couldn’t take any more of Nell’s confusing ‘yes-no-maybe-no-maybe-yes’. 3.5 stars, only because Nell Trim admitted to all suffering poor James at the end of the story that she’d, indeed, been a PITA... not in the same vein but close enough.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

A Scoundrel in Moonlight is the last book ini the Sons of Sin series. The Sons of Sins, are four close friends who help each other especially when it comes to the women they love and certain villains that attempt to destroy them. Our hero of this show, Maruess of Leath, is honorable but has had to pick up the pieces for the crimes especially morally from his uncle who destroyed many innocents ruined and with bastard children. But when his mother has a new companion, James is distrustful about her, because he can sense that she is not everything she claims to be. Nell Trim is on a important mission, our for justice for her sister who died giving childbirth, to get justice against the man who ruined her. Nell was told it was the Marquess of Leath, but the more she gets to know him, she doubts her sisters word, because James is honorable and she can't imagine him ruining countless women's lives. But the truth comes out, James is understand of the reasons behind Nell's distrust, but he will have to win her heart and trust, but also the belief that they can have a future together no matter her upbringing.
She hadn't come to Yorkshire to pursue a lifelong career as a domestic servant. She'd arrived on a quest that had taken so many turns since that she hardly remembered where she's started.
She stayed.
Because she couldn't bear to leave.
I simply adored reading this book, it was a fantastic romance and I had a blast with the characters. Anna Campbell is a fantastic author, and since she has gone indie hasn't written any full length novels since this book, and I was pleased to find how much I fell for this book and her wonderful writing. If you enjoy historical romance, and want a author that is fresh and witty....this author is a must for y'all. I honestly can't get enough of her work and this series has been a thrill to read. Especially the way she writes the heroes, they are mouthwatering sexiness that romance readers desire. Our hero for this book, is more of a beta hero. He is protective but is honorable and true. He is also a wonderful and nice guy, I love how forgiving he was of Nell. He was hurt that she kept secrets from him, but didn't hold it against her since he understands why she kept secrets from him. I love how he is able to look at the bigger picture and not dwell too much on small things that don't matter for the long term. You also see how he fights for the woman he loves, especially when she is full speed ahead against the idea of marriage since she doesn't want to bring him scandal to his name. Our heroine is a fighter too, she could be a bit too stubborn at times but I did like seeing her determination and commitment to finding the man behind ruining her sister.

The romance between these two was simply wonderful. I enjoyed seeing their battle of wills, the fun dialogue that builds between them and the powerful chemistry and boy some of the kissing scenes are swoon worthy. The humor was witty and fun and made me remember why I love this author's style of writing so much. We also see the way that these two just sizzle, their chemistry just builds and builds and I love seeing them go back and forth. We also get to see the close friendships that we see between the four men and their wives. I loved their bantering and close knit ties to each other. They may not be related, but they are as close as brothers.

Overall a simply wonderful romance that crackles and sizzles with chemistry, a couple that have to overcome distrust and lies to find the real villain, and along the way discover their love is worth fighting for. A FANTASTIC ROMANCE
Click To Buy On Amazon 
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[Sammy Loves Books · Rating 2 out of 5]

The worst of the series!!

[Annie ⚜️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know this is nitpicking but the hunk on the cover has a beautifully smooth chest and we are repeatedly told the hero's chest is covered in uber manly dark hair. Just saying.

This wasn't a favorite but the epilogue had me all teary reading about the hea's of all the son's of sin. I loved reading about them all showing up and the camaraderie.

The whole "they can't be together because they're from different classes" got a smidge tiresome especially when he's come around she's still saying no.

Also, huge pet peeve of mine is a heroine who will willingly allow herself to be a man's mistress. It's just icky to me personally.

[Dorothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t say enough wonderful about this book. Kept me enthralled throughout. Bravo Anna

[Heidi Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah, the last of the Sons of Sin novels, this is really a linked book (as the three gorgeous bastards - and I mean that term literally not figuratively - are already hitched)… Here we have Sophie Fairbrother's taciturn brother The Marquess of Leath (who appeared to good effect as Cam Rothermere's enemy in book 3) James Fairbrother doing the unthinkable and falling for his housemaid, the delightful Eleanor Trim, when he is forced to return from London's political scene to his country pile in deepest darkest Yorkshire. Miss Trim immediately attracts James's attention - their first encounter in the library is deliciously sexy - not only has she a strange arresting beauty but she intrigues him, especially as he suspects she doesn't like him, but he can't figure out why… As it turns out Nell loathes him, or rather she wants to loathe him, as she believes he is the rake responsible for her half-sister's ruin and eventual death in childbirth (FYI, he's not, just in case you were wondering). But as Nell gets to know James, she begins to see what an intelligent, responsible and above all principled man he is…. Playing beautifully on the class strictures of Regency society, their love affair is one bound by the possibility of scandal, making it all the more intense. If I had one slight problem with this book, it is Nell's actions after James offers to marry her, her reaction although explained seemed somehow unworthy of a woman brave enough to risk so much for the man she loves… (i.e.: I wanted to shake her for not only hurting herself but James so much)… But that's probably just me putting my 21st century hat on, and it doesn't detract from the high drama and wonderfully sensuality of Campbell's writing which is as always superb.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh! I absolutely loved A Scoundrel by Moonlight! It was fantastic and entertaining, and I could barely pull myself away sometimes! It was a truly great historical romance and Ms. Campbell will definitely be on my list of authors from now on.

Man, Miss Eleanor Trim is a handful! She's strong, stubborn, and determined. She's smart and she's a true lady. Nell is an awesome heroine and even though I wanted to smack some sense into her at times, I really loved her! I especially loved the way she challenged James; it was extremely fun to watch!

And oh my gosh, did I love James Fairbrother! The Marquess of Leath is one sexy-as-hell nobleman, but he stole my heart with his thoughtfulness! I swear he made my chest clench so tight it was hard to breathe when he wasn't melting my heart. I just love that guy, he's an amazing hero!

A Scoundrel by Moonlight will take you on a wild ride of danger, deception, passion, beauty, and love. It made my heart pound and race and ache. It made me yell, laugh, and smile a lot. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed reading this wonderful book!!

A Scoundrel by Moonlight is a standalone, mostly told from James and Nell's POV, but we do hear from one other person, and James and Nell do get their HEA! ~ Paige, 5 stars

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the whole I enjoyed this audio version. My main reservations were with the heroine and her reaction to certain revelations. I loved the hero and couldn't find fault with him, in fact I'm surprised he hung around with all the flack he took. This is the very first time I have listened to Steve West and he is a terrific narrator coming a very close second to Nicholas Boulton and Alex Wyndham in my opinion; definitely need more of the dreamy voiced Steve West.

[Sue Gerhardt Griffiths · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I can honestly say I adore Anna Campbell’s stories they are ever so glorious and enchanting. It’s hard not to get excited when reaching for one of Ms Campbell’s books as her book heroes are just so swoon worthy - strong and chivalrous hotties you can’t help but fall in love with.

A Scoundrel by Moonlight is the fourth instalment in the Sons of Sins series and it’s a beauty. I just loved Nell and James, they had a strong, sexual chemistry that sparked and sizzled. James was such a thoughtful and smart character and not in the least bit a scoundrel, it was so refreshing to have a noble hero as opposed to the customary rake.

One of the best things when reading a series is catching up with characters from previous books and here we get to spend time with all the former couples who were a delight in preceding books and delight us again in this tale.

A wonderful series I wish didn’t have to end.

Book No. 9 #20Backlistin2020 Challenge

POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2020: #17 - A book by an author who has written more than 20 books

[Ms_prue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again with reading the last book in the series and again I am going to have to go back and read the rest.
ETA: I need to list all the things I love about this book which are probably spoilers, so, spoiler cut!
- The vast difference in social stations is not just handwaved, it's an important part of the story.
- She says no, repeatedly, and he respects it -- repeatedly! And he doesn't resent her for it, or try to trick her into a new arrangement; he thinks about why she said no, and comes up with a new arrangement and offers it to her plainly, for her to accept or reject as she decides fit.
- Forbidden love! Unequal status! A long and drawn-out process of reconciling lust and respect and life plans!
- Have I adequately conveyed how much I loved reading the process of a) choosing someone and b) actively making room for them in your life? Because I really loved that.
- CHOOSING SOMEONE AND MAKING ROOM FOR THEM IN YOUR LIFE~~~~ <33333

[Melann · Rating 4 out of 5]

J'ai fait l'impasse des tomes 2 et 3 sans grande raison. Le résumé de celui-ci m'a plu.
Lecture agréable, je trouve les héros de cette auteure toujours attachants.

[Monique Takens · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dit boek heb ik een beetje versneld doorgelezen - oftewel .. ik heb hele stukken tekst overgeslagen .
De schrijfstijl past niet helemaal bij mij en ik ga geen andere boeken meer van A.C. lezen .

[Laura Boon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spirited heroine wins love of workaholic Marquess in entrancing, sensual Regency romance

When scandal forces James Fairbrother to retire to his country seat for a while, he finds Miss Eleanor Trim firmly ensconced in his household. He does not know why she is there, but he is sure she is lying to him and is determined to uncover her secrets. Nell knows exactly why she is there - to avenge her dead sister - but is frustrated by the apparent kindness and generosity of the taciturn Marquess when she knows him to be a monster.

So begins a lively dance between two like-minded individuals who have to unravel threads of misinformation and deceit. Some interesting issues play out between the pages of A Scoundrel by Moonlight, particularly around the themes of trust, family loyalty and accepting the help of others. When do you trust your instinct and when the 'facts'? Is it wise to accept a hand offered in friendship, or is it better to rely only on your own resources? How do you reconcile family needs with your own desires? There is also a heathy dollop of adventure and derrng-do as well as the reappearance of all three delightful couples from the previous books in the series.

Anna Campbell has written another winner with her characteristic lively dialogue, humour and smouldering sensuality. I loved this particular scoundrel of hers and how he throws off his cloak of stuffiness to reveal the smart determined, knows-his-own-mind, sometimes taciturn but definitely loving Alpha male beneath. I highly recommend both this book and the others in the Sons of Sin trilogy: Seven Nights in a Rogue's Bed, A Rake's Midnight Kiss and What a Duke Dares. Ms Campbell has revealed that she is also writing a series of novellas for other characters in the series ... thank goodness because I couldn't bear to say goodbye to any of them just yet!

[Jaci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love can overcome anything!!! That is one of the reasons I love Anna Campbells books. They are always true love Stories. No matter what the characters go through, where they come from Anna always makes sure that you feel the love that the characters feel and the love that she herself puts into her writing. This story is a lesson in believing in yourself and making your own decisions no matter what everyone else says, and knowing that even though the obstacles that you are going to face are formiable, love will conquer all and making yourself and the people you love happy is all that matters. You only live once and you cannot take in to account what other people will think. Eleanor takes a position in the house of the man who she thinks seduced her sister who died trying to deliver his baby. She is looking for proof but when she meets him, she finds that she likes him and he doesn't seem to be the heartless seducer that her sister described. Leath knows there is something not quite right about his mother's new companion, and he doesn't trust her, but he is also attracted to her at the same time. As they spend more time together they both find their suspiscions of each other disappearing are they become more attracted to each other. It takes a villian and near death experience for both of them to realize their feelings for each other. As with all Anna's books, I read this one in one night and now have to wait forever for another book by her. Anna is one of the best in the industry and you cannot miss this or any of her books.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

# 4 in the "Sons of Sin" series, but can be read as a stand alone. Although, I would recommend reading the others in this intriguing series. Fast paced tale of secrets and romance with a bit of intrigue and lots of passion. Mistaken identity could cost our H/H their HEA. The truth could cost our heroine her life.
Ms. Campbell has a way of pulling her fans into her stories with her vivid descriptions, her interesting characters and her intriguing storyline. A well written story with realistic characters and a believable plot. A definite keeper and a must read for Romance readers everywhere. Recency fans are sure to devow "A Scoundrel by Moonlight".

*Received for an honest review from the publisher through Net Galley*

***Cross-posted on My Book Addiction Reviews***

Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[T from Istria &#x1f49b;&#x1f49a; · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok but too much sex. Good start, first quarter-half, then it started dragging. Hero was super, though, throughout. Very honorable.

[Shawna · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stars - Historical Romance

[Shauni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy

And the Sons of Sins continue.. Initially The Sons of Sin are three men bonded from their days of Eton, all three claimed a bastard, either by deceit, desire or despair. It didn't matter.. they carried that cross their entire lives. Now they are adults and are slowly finding their footing.

But things have changed and now it's Lord Leith's turn.. a man whose family has faced shame... and who has faced the Sons of Sin across social battle lines, now.. his life is in for a huge change.

Nell Trim watched her beloved sister die in childbirth. For months Nell was left clueless as to who destroyed this beautiful young woman. Thinking she was raped, Nell wanted justice but when she found out the truth, she demanded justice. Seems her sister wasn't raped but seduced, then mocked and mortified and left to carry the burden all on her own and on her death bed, she finally gave Nell the name. The Marquess of Leith. Now finally there is a man to demand justice from. Only once she meets him, Nell finds herself falling.. Will she submit to her desires? And which one? Those of lust or revenge?

James Fairbrother, The Marquess of Leith, is an extremely honorable man with an amazing future ahead of him. Destined to go far in England's government. That is until his Uncle has been discovered to be so evil that not even his death can wipe away his sins. And the family must pay. James is sent to his country estate until things cool down and he can once again take his place in the leading political circles. But once he returns home he discovers that things are not quite the same. His mother has taken on a new companion and for James, nothing will ever be the same.

Another absolutely fabulous story. Watching Nell struggle with what she feels and what she "knows" is nothing short of brilliant. A hard place to be. How can she fall for the man who destroyed her sister? And yet how can the man she is falling in love with be the deviant her sister described? The facts don't match.

And James? He is in enough trouble he doesn't need to fall for a woman who can not help his political career. At best she could be his mistress but can he offer an innocent miss such a position? Better yet should he? How can he be falling in love with a woman who is just so wrong for him?

The answers are never easy and trust and faith play a huge part in binding this couple together. That and friends that he never knew he had. Support for this couple comes from a very surprising direction.

One thing Ms. Campbell does is create some interesting secondary characters. His mother, who adores him, is a woman of her time and has almost fanatical ambitions for him. Partially to fulfill the promises made to her that didn't come true and partially because she really does care for her son. But her support is conditional.. she wants him to become the political force he was meant to be and will do what it takes to ruin his relationship, to a woman she actually likes.

There's a reason why I have fallen for this series and A Scoundrel by Moonlight just gives me more things to love. Enough to do a Series Chat on it *grins* (no self promoting here)

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of A Scoundrel by Moonlight, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on April 28, 2015

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2015/04...

What do you do when your head tells you not to trust someone but your heart begs you to go after them anyway? That’s the question in A Scoundrel by Moonlight . Not everything is all that it seems for our hero and heroine in the fourth installment of Anna Campbell’s fabulous Sons of Sin series. Nell Trim disguises herself as a housemaid and arrives at the Marquess of Leath’s house determined to ruin the man who brought about her sister’s demise. Only James Fairbrother, Leath himself, is nothing like the heartless seducer Nell’s sister named on her deathbed. James is handsome and seductive to be sure, but he’s also hardworking and not the kind of man who would use and cast aside people. It’s not long before Nell finds herself entranced by the man who doesn’t know he’s her enemy, and Nell’s internal struggle is fascinating to watch. As for James, he’s positive that his mother’s new companion is not all that she claims to be, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting her. James knows better than to try and seduce someone whose position is relies on him. After all, he’s had to spend an immeasurable amount of time trying to help the women whose lives his uncle ruined while using his name. Mutual suspicion doesn’t do anything to dim the sexual tension in A Scoundrel by Moonlight , and boy do things get steamy. But as Nell and James fall for one another, deception and misunderstandings threaten to destroy their newfound love.

In order to untangle the mass of secrets and overcome the obstacles standing in the way of their happily ever after, Nell and James will require some outside help. Said help comes in the form of past Sons of Sins heroes and heroines. Sidonie, Jonas, Genevieve, Richard, Pen, and Cam are all back in full force and they dazzle whenever they’re on the page. You don’t have to have read Seven Nights in a Rogue’s Bed, A Rake’s Midnight Kiss, or What a Duke Dares in order to enjoy A Scoundrel by Moonlight , but fans of the series are sure to adore the supporting roles our three beloved couples play. James’s uncle did a lot of damage to them, but though there was animosity in the past – particularly between James and Cam – there’s never any doubt that they will all band together to make things right. Even though I adored Nell and James, watching them interact with the other six was perhaps my favorite part of the book.

Anna Campbell never fails to entertain and I always finish her books a supremely satisfied reader. A Scoundrel by Moonlight is a story sure to charm any historical romance lover – it has passion, romance, drama, and an ending that will leave you smiling.


FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Peggy M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received (won) an ARC from the writer. This book is part of ‘The Sons of Sin series’ but you don’t have to read the other books of this series to read this one.

Nell Trim is a young woman who held her younger half-sister in her arms when she died. Her last words were the name of the man who had ruined her and the promise of revenge. Nell is heartbroken. After losing her father at a young age in the war and her mother a few years back, her half-sister was her only living blood relative (except for her stepfather). Nell intends to keep her promise for revenge and she plans to do this by ruining the Marquess of Leath just like he ruined her sister and many other young women. And she plans to do this by finding his secret diary where in he describes all his affairs in detail! So she goes to the his mansion in the hopes that she will found the diary there.

James Fairbrother, the Marquess of Leath, has had a tough couple of months. Months where scandal after scandal plagued his family. And now he has come home at his mansion in the country in the hope that people will soon forget about the scandals and that he then can return to London and his political career. His political career and his life plan of becoming prime minister someday.

What he doesn’t expect to find at his return is a strange woman in his library. A woman who claims to be a maid servant, only a normal maid servant wouldn’t talk back to him, like she’s doing! James is very intrigued by her and more so if he discovers that she’s his mother new companion. Something that his mother forgot to mention to him in one of her letters. James knows that Nell, the new companion of his mother is hiding something and he’s determined to find out what it is.

There were two things that Nell didn’t expected, one was that the Marquess of Leath would find her in the middle of the night in his library and the second thing is that she would feel an attraction to him. An attraction that’s so wrong but that’s getting harder and harder to denied the more times they spend together.

Nell can’t believe that the man she gets to know, the man who makes her feel things she never felt before can be the same man who seduced all those young women.
So at the end, she decides to follow her heart for once in her life but it’s that a wise thing to do? Or will her heart, just like all those other hearts before her, be broken by him?

Anna Campbell is one of my favorite historical writers. And like always she didn’t disappoint me! She knows how to write a historical love story.
I love the chemistry between Nell and James. How they grew to each other. The building of their relationship. It was also very nice seeing all the other couples again for the other books. It’s always a happy thing to see friends and family again.

[Mariana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh, it was mediocre, a little slow and melodramatic but not too bad to listen to on my commutes to and from work.

[Literati Literature Lovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna Campbell has written a tantalizing tale in A Scoundrel by Moonlight .  The book starts out as one of vengeance as the Marquee of Leath has dishonored poor maidens up and down the English country. What he didn't count on was a bright and vengeful older sister of one of the maidens, in Nell Trim.  She will go to any length to find justice for her sister.

Those of you who read my reviews know I don't fawn easily over a book; I read far too much to jump onto an authors bang wagon. So when I say this is a brilliant regency romance, you need to just buy it now. If you are disappointed in this book, I will eat my hat.  Campbell has written a captivating tale of vengeance, deceit, passion and of course love. The road  these characters travel is filled with both romance and danger.

This is the fifth book in the Sons of Sins series, and can be read as a standalone story. I have only read the previous book in the series, and had not difficulty following the plot of either What a Duke Dares or this new installment in the series.  The authors does a wonderful job of involving the characters from the prior books, that as a reader one does not need any prior knowledge to throughly enjoy this novel.