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The Sins of Shadowmere
One scandalous dance. One unforgivable betrayal. One chance to rewrite their fates.
Miss Daphne Harland is out of options. Her father insists she marry a man three times her age, and society won’t save a woman trapped by debt and desperation. When a chance encounter with London’s most infamous rogue presents a scandalous escape, she orchestrates a single kiss—enough to ruin her reputation and free her from a future she cannot bear.
But Dominic Hawke didn’t come to London to rescue a damsel. He came for revenge. One dance with Miss Harland will be enough to provoke outrage and force her father into a duel—justice, at last, for the mother Dominic couldn’t save.
He doesn’t expect to admire Daphne’s wit. Or her courage. Or the inconvenient desire that sparks every time they clash.
Now, with reputations in tatters and the ton watching their every move, Daphne must seek sanctuary at Shadowmere—Dominic’s notorious country estate, where secrets lurk behind every locked door, and no one leaves unchanged.
She's his enemy’s daughter.
But she could be his only salvation.
– A brooding, revenge-driven hero with a wounded past
– A sharp-witted heroine who refuses to be a pawn
– A scandalous ruination that changes everything
– Forced proximity at a gothic, secretive estate
– Enemies to lovers with slow-burning desire
– Two wounded souls finding redemption in each other
Miss Daphne Harland is out of options. Her father insists she marry a man three times her age, and society won’t save a woman trapped by debt and desperation. When a chance encounter with London’s most infamous rogue presents a scandalous escape, she orchestrates a single kiss—enough to ruin her reputation and free her from a future she cannot bear.
But Dominic Hawke didn’t come to London to rescue a damsel. He came for revenge. One dance with Miss Harland will be enough to provoke outrage and force her father into a duel—justice, at last, for the mother Dominic couldn’t save.
He doesn’t expect to admire Daphne’s wit. Or her courage. Or the inconvenient desire that sparks every time they clash.
Now, with reputations in tatters and the ton watching their every move, Daphne must seek sanctuary at Shadowmere—Dominic’s notorious country estate, where secrets lurk behind every locked door, and no one leaves unchanged.
She's his enemy’s daughter.
But she could be his only salvation.
– A brooding, revenge-driven hero with a wounded past
– A sharp-witted heroine who refuses to be a pawn
– A scandalous ruination that changes everything
– Forced proximity at a gothic, secretive estate
– Enemies to lovers with slow-burning desire
– Two wounded souls finding redemption in each other
- GenresMystery
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
About the author
Adele Clee
58 books537 followersAdele Clee writes historical romance mysteries set in the early nineteenth century. Her stories blend romance with intrigue, gothic atmosphere, and a touch of scandal, often unfolding in Regency and early Victorian London. Readers praise her scarred heroines, brooding heroes, and the way love and mystery intertwine across each series.
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 7, 2026
Tropes: enemies to lovers; MC's team up to solve a mystery
Steam level: 3
This is an enjoyable read by Adele Clee and I'm looking forward to reading more books in this new series. Although the baddie(s) aren't too surprising and the conflict between the MCs' divergent lifestyles is never really resolved, the connection between them crackles. This book uses the standard "MMC seeking vengeance by ruining MFC" trope and stands it on its head; I loved how Daphne stood toe-to-toe with Dominic. If you're looking for a HR with an old school "dark alpha vibe", be aware that the focus here is more on the MFC achieving agency through the HEA.
Steam level: 3
This is an enjoyable read by Adele Clee and I'm looking forward to reading more books in this new series. Although the baddie(s) aren't too surprising and the conflict between the MCs' divergent lifestyles is never really resolved, the connection between them crackles. This book uses the standard "MMC seeking vengeance by ruining MFC" trope and stands it on its head; I loved how Daphne stood toe-to-toe with Dominic. If you're looking for a HR with an old school "dark alpha vibe", be aware that the focus here is more on the MFC achieving agency through the HEA.
May 8, 2026
This is my 46th book by Adele Clee and have been reading her since 2016. I love her writing and know I'll always get a good read from her. I also love that her books have a little danger, suspense and intrigue in them. I am so glad she has a new series out.
I could tell from the first couple of pages this book was one I wasn't going to want to put down. WOW, did it ever catch my eye. I loved Daphne and Dominic. I loved how they were with each and how they treated each other. Their relationship was so intense and incredibly well written. I loved the storyline and their story. I am definitely putting this book down as my first favorite book read for May, 2026.
I could tell from the first couple of pages this book was one I wasn't going to want to put down. WOW, did it ever catch my eye. I loved Daphne and Dominic. I loved how they were with each and how they treated each other. Their relationship was so intense and incredibly well written. I loved the storyline and their story. I am definitely putting this book down as my first favorite book read for May, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh what a way to start a new series!
Dominic Hawke wants to avenge the death of his mother and what better way then to ruin the daughter of the man who killed her? Except for when that same daughter is set on her own ruin and she sets his blood on fire, and turns his world upside down with a dance and a kiss.
Daphne Harland has to find a way to ruin herself and fast what better way than the man who everyone is afraid of especially when he shows up to ruin her anyway. Except he is no knight in shining armor who will rescue her, she will have to sneak into his world and become apart of his, so she will be safe from her father and her betrothed, what she didn't expect was to find herself needing protection to guard her heart from the most dangerous man in London.
Will these two be able to find happiness together despite who her father is? Or will they lose it forever?
This book is a slow burn, angst, funny, who done it , steamy and a beautiful happily ever after.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Dominic Hawke wants to avenge the death of his mother and what better way then to ruin the daughter of the man who killed her? Except for when that same daughter is set on her own ruin and she sets his blood on fire, and turns his world upside down with a dance and a kiss.
Daphne Harland has to find a way to ruin herself and fast what better way than the man who everyone is afraid of especially when he shows up to ruin her anyway. Except he is no knight in shining armor who will rescue her, she will have to sneak into his world and become apart of his, so she will be safe from her father and her betrothed, what she didn't expect was to find herself needing protection to guard her heart from the most dangerous man in London.
Will these two be able to find happiness together despite who her father is? Or will they lose it forever?
This book is a slow burn, angst, funny, who done it , steamy and a beautiful happily ever after.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
May 12, 2026
Oh my word! This was unexpectedly good, reminded me of HR novels from authors like Stacy Reid.
I went into this totally blind but was pleasantly surprised. Both characters were wonderful and I loved the teasing sensuality between them. The steam and spice was intense for HR standard, especially how proactive the heroine was with kissing. Usually the man ravages the woman, but it's nice to see a female character embracing her sexuality even if she started off a virgin.
I went into this totally blind but was pleasantly surprised. Both characters were wonderful and I loved the teasing sensuality between them. The steam and spice was intense for HR standard, especially how proactive the heroine was with kissing. Usually the man ravages the woman, but it's nice to see a female character embracing her sexuality even if she started off a virgin.
May 2, 2026
Wow, so much has already been said in the great reviews for this book. I have read a lot of Adele’s books and series. After reading this story I am sure we have another great series coming, I can’t wait. Daphne Hartland knows she is running out of time before her horrible father sells her to a nasty older man to pay off his debts! She finally sees a chance when the man known as the most dangerous man of London, Dominic Hawk asks her to dance. Mother warns their daughter against him. He is known for his scandalous, forbidden parties. He holds then to gain secrets on the ton he despises which gives him power over top man and women of the ton. He is wealthier them most of the of the ton and he knows how to use both the money and the power. Now he is out for revenge against the man who killed his mother. He is willing to ruin the man's daughter to get it. He is shocked when his plans go all wrong. The Lady causes her own ruin with a scandalous dance and witty banter and a kiss at a ball. Knowing she will need protection from both her father now that she ruined his plans, and the man who still wants her, she is surprised when Dominic offers her help. Dominic has a heart of gold for those he loves and protects but is hard as steel for most everyone else. These two both have secrets and lots of them, both their parents died in mysterious ways, their mothers also held secrets neither knew. As they work to solve the mysteries, the attraction and super chemistry every time they are near is wonderful to watch. With murder, secrets, fears from both their past along with many twists and turns and tons of emotions, this is a book you will not be able to stop reading. I read late into the night and first thing in the morning till the end. Don’t wait to grab a copy and get started. I received an ARC from the author and with to thank her. With the friends of Dominic, we meet in this book. I am sure the rest of this series is going to be great too. This is my honest opinion, and I am freely giving it.
April 30, 2026
Vengeance meet Salvation!
At it's heart can two save each other teetering at the gates of blistering unhappiness! one set on revenge, the other from a future so abhorrent she'll risk her reputation to escape it. Ohhh, I so loved finding out!
The word play as always dazzles from Clee. Rich in emotion and high on smarts THE SINS OF SHADOWMERE had me chuckling, smiling, sighing and groaning in equal measure.
Clee sure can bring to life characters, so well rounded yet haunted, but with this ingrained core of kindness, so deep you get lost in untangling and exploring every step with them as they so deeply get under your skin.
With her signature mystery cleverly interwoven in, to bring Dominic & Daphne together, explore their connection and simmering attraction - despite the stench of revenge hanging between them - all mixed so seamlessly to intensify the growing attraction, as you attempt to piece together the facts, spot the red herrings and delve deeper into the dark secrets, burning tension and romance at play here. A task that keeps you guessing and deliberating until the last word.
Just loved this new series starter. It shimmers with an undercurrent of sizzling slow burn desire, that tugs and pulls at the pair to tumble over that barrier, from, should be, enemy into lover, and explore the inevitable heady new feelings blossoming between them. As an internal war between vulnerability and purpose, devotion and mistrust hovers beneath the surface. To the point, each interaction hooked me in further and immersed me in a love, you hope leads to the steamy intimacy they so crave.
Clee never disappoints a natural story crafter that really knows how to have you coming back for more! And with the teases we've received so far about Dominic's close friends we're gonna be in for a fabulous ride this series. I can't wait!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
At it's heart can two save each other teetering at the gates of blistering unhappiness! one set on revenge, the other from a future so abhorrent she'll risk her reputation to escape it. Ohhh, I so loved finding out!
The word play as always dazzles from Clee. Rich in emotion and high on smarts THE SINS OF SHADOWMERE had me chuckling, smiling, sighing and groaning in equal measure.
Clee sure can bring to life characters, so well rounded yet haunted, but with this ingrained core of kindness, so deep you get lost in untangling and exploring every step with them as they so deeply get under your skin.
With her signature mystery cleverly interwoven in, to bring Dominic & Daphne together, explore their connection and simmering attraction - despite the stench of revenge hanging between them - all mixed so seamlessly to intensify the growing attraction, as you attempt to piece together the facts, spot the red herrings and delve deeper into the dark secrets, burning tension and romance at play here. A task that keeps you guessing and deliberating until the last word.
Just loved this new series starter. It shimmers with an undercurrent of sizzling slow burn desire, that tugs and pulls at the pair to tumble over that barrier, from, should be, enemy into lover, and explore the inevitable heady new feelings blossoming between them. As an internal war between vulnerability and purpose, devotion and mistrust hovers beneath the surface. To the point, each interaction hooked me in further and immersed me in a love, you hope leads to the steamy intimacy they so crave.
Clee never disappoints a natural story crafter that really knows how to have you coming back for more! And with the teases we've received so far about Dominic's close friends we're gonna be in for a fabulous ride this series. I can't wait!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great start to the series…………
This novel was a great start to a new series. There was a mystery to be solved that started with a need for vengeance against the man that Dominic believed killed his mother. He attempts to ruin his enemy’s daughter, Daphne, in hopes of luring the man into demanding a duel, but the man doesn’t care about his daughter enough to truly care. Daphne knows Dominic’s motives and refuses to be used so she decides to use the opportunity to ruin herself so she can get out of the arranged marriage that her father has planned. The plan doesn’t really work for either of them so she takes matters into her own hands. Dominic is a hero that is ruthless to the world but actually has a heart of gold with those he cares about, and she happens to fall into that category. He was a likable character from the beginning even though he had bad motives. He instantly liked her and felt something pulling him to want to help her. His heart was always obvious where she was concerned even when he tried to be tough. Daphne was a perplexing heroine for me. She was a good person, but her actions toward Dominic almost felt unfair and contradictory. Her character was too antagonistic and for too long. It almost seemed like she projected the past actions of others on him. She loved him but expected things from him that it didn’t seem she always gave. I did see the things they gave one another, physically and emotionally, but it seemed a bit unequal. I did like them as a couple though when they were both being vulnerable. The witty banter between them and their friends were humorous and entertaining. The mysteries and connections being made through the searches kept me engaged and interested. The friendships were endearing. The steamy scenes were tasteful and well done. They flowed with the story and had purpose. The enemies to lovers trope isn’t my favorite if it is prolonged with antagonistic moments where both main characters continue to deny their feelings. That was not the case here. Even though he may not have named it, Dominic’s feelings were obvious through his actions. This slow burn love story had romance, mystery, a bit of danger and scandal, surprises, twists and turns, strong friendships, loyalty, trust, and a HEA. I can’t wait to see the love stories unfold for the other men in the series. I love the series by this author. I’ve not been disappointed yet even if I don’t love all the characters.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
This novel was a great start to a new series. There was a mystery to be solved that started with a need for vengeance against the man that Dominic believed killed his mother. He attempts to ruin his enemy’s daughter, Daphne, in hopes of luring the man into demanding a duel, but the man doesn’t care about his daughter enough to truly care. Daphne knows Dominic’s motives and refuses to be used so she decides to use the opportunity to ruin herself so she can get out of the arranged marriage that her father has planned. The plan doesn’t really work for either of them so she takes matters into her own hands. Dominic is a hero that is ruthless to the world but actually has a heart of gold with those he cares about, and she happens to fall into that category. He was a likable character from the beginning even though he had bad motives. He instantly liked her and felt something pulling him to want to help her. His heart was always obvious where she was concerned even when he tried to be tough. Daphne was a perplexing heroine for me. She was a good person, but her actions toward Dominic almost felt unfair and contradictory. Her character was too antagonistic and for too long. It almost seemed like she projected the past actions of others on him. She loved him but expected things from him that it didn’t seem she always gave. I did see the things they gave one another, physically and emotionally, but it seemed a bit unequal. I did like them as a couple though when they were both being vulnerable. The witty banter between them and their friends were humorous and entertaining. The mysteries and connections being made through the searches kept me engaged and interested. The friendships were endearing. The steamy scenes were tasteful and well done. They flowed with the story and had purpose. The enemies to lovers trope isn’t my favorite if it is prolonged with antagonistic moments where both main characters continue to deny their feelings. That was not the case here. Even though he may not have named it, Dominic’s feelings were obvious through his actions. This slow burn love story had romance, mystery, a bit of danger and scandal, surprises, twists and turns, strong friendships, loyalty, trust, and a HEA. I can’t wait to see the love stories unfold for the other men in the series. I love the series by this author. I’ve not been disappointed yet even if I don’t love all the characters.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
May 1, 2026
This is a great way to kick off a new book series. The story had me hooked from the minute Hawke walks into the ballroom. I barely put it down until I was finished.
Daphne Harland has what many young ladies of the ton have, a terrible father & very little say in her own life. When she becomes part of a revenge plot, she makes her own plans. Dominic Hawke tries to have control in everything he does. His quest for revenge against the worst of society seems to have no limits. Safe to say, Daphne isn’t what he expects.
The very public interaction between these two kicks off an entertaining, banter-filled story. They both seek answers, but start w/very different goals. Because each are so headstrong, it’s really fun to see who blinks first. The mystery to solve in this story is interesting, too. Lots of trails for Daphne & Dominic to follow. The introduction of Dominic’s friends as members of the Brethren makes me look forward to upcoming books in the series.
Had a thought when I remembered the mention of Hawke in A Marquess Scorned. It makes me wonder if Daventry played a part in Hawke’s making a public display w/Daphne @ the Templeton ball. Would seem on brand for him & his successful meddling.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to read an advance copy.
Daphne Harland has what many young ladies of the ton have, a terrible father & very little say in her own life. When she becomes part of a revenge plot, she makes her own plans. Dominic Hawke tries to have control in everything he does. His quest for revenge against the worst of society seems to have no limits. Safe to say, Daphne isn’t what he expects.
The very public interaction between these two kicks off an entertaining, banter-filled story. They both seek answers, but start w/very different goals. Because each are so headstrong, it’s really fun to see who blinks first. The mystery to solve in this story is interesting, too. Lots of trails for Daphne & Dominic to follow. The introduction of Dominic’s friends as members of the Brethren makes me look forward to upcoming books in the series.
Had a thought when I remembered the mention of Hawke in A Marquess Scorned. It makes me wonder if Daventry played a part in Hawke’s making a public display w/Daphne @ the Templeton ball. Would seem on brand for him & his successful meddling.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to read an advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Who doesn't love a bad boy hero?
There's a part of me (in my younger days) that was secretly drawn to bad boys. I suppose that is why Dominic Hawke peaked my interest from the moment he entered the candlelit ballroom. Even his name sounded oh so dangerous. Now, I think I understand why all those nineteenth century ladies fluttered their fans when he walked by. Were they too secretly drawn to a bad boy?
Then came the waltz. No putting the e-book down after his super-charged encounter with his intended prey, Miss Daphne Harland. Now what is an unrepentant rake to do when the woman he intends to ruin is a brave woman who has her own agenda? No doubt about it. This read was shaping up to be an entertaining, fan-fluttering tale.
For me, the books by Adele Clee are the gold-standard of what historical romance and mysteries should be. The Sins of Shadowmere is definitely another winner, and the cover fits the story perfectly.
Content 411: This book contains mild swearing and hot intimate scenes, which are explicit.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
There's a part of me (in my younger days) that was secretly drawn to bad boys. I suppose that is why Dominic Hawke peaked my interest from the moment he entered the candlelit ballroom. Even his name sounded oh so dangerous. Now, I think I understand why all those nineteenth century ladies fluttered their fans when he walked by. Were they too secretly drawn to a bad boy?
Then came the waltz. No putting the e-book down after his super-charged encounter with his intended prey, Miss Daphne Harland. Now what is an unrepentant rake to do when the woman he intends to ruin is a brave woman who has her own agenda? No doubt about it. This read was shaping up to be an entertaining, fan-fluttering tale.
For me, the books by Adele Clee are the gold-standard of what historical romance and mysteries should be. The Sins of Shadowmere is definitely another winner, and the cover fits the story perfectly.
Content 411: This book contains mild swearing and hot intimate scenes, which are explicit.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story delivers a compelling blend of romance, tension, and social stakes, set against the rigid expectations of London society. From the outset, Daphne Harland is a heroine easy to root for—cornered by circumstance yet bold enough to take control of her fate in a daring and unconventional way. Her decision to engineer her own scandal is both desperate and empowering, immediately drawing the reader in.
Dominic Hawke, the brooding and vengeful counterpart, adds depth to the narrative. His motivations are rooted in past pain, and while his initial intentions are far from noble, his gradual admiration for Daphne creates a satisfying emotional shift. The chemistry between them is sharp and engaging, fueled by witty exchanges and underlying tension.
The move to Shadowmere introduces an atmospheric layer of mystery, hinting at darker secrets and emotional transformation. Overall, the story promises a rich mix of passion, intrigue, and character growth—ideal for readers who enjoy high-stakes historical romance with strong, complex leads.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review
Dominic Hawke, the brooding and vengeful counterpart, adds depth to the narrative. His motivations are rooted in past pain, and while his initial intentions are far from noble, his gradual admiration for Daphne creates a satisfying emotional shift. The chemistry between them is sharp and engaging, fueled by witty exchanges and underlying tension.
The move to Shadowmere introduces an atmospheric layer of mystery, hinting at darker secrets and emotional transformation. Overall, the story promises a rich mix of passion, intrigue, and character growth—ideal for readers who enjoy high-stakes historical romance with strong, complex leads.
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adele Clee is back in her element - weaving mystery, danger, & delicious tension with the precision of a woman who refuses to churn out anything less than gold. The Sins of Shadowmere gives us Dominic Hawke, the charming devil whose parties are legendary & whose secrets are currency. Enter Daphne Harland - she's determined, cornered, & absolutely not in the mood to be bartered off like a prize horse.
Their chemistry - a slow burn with teeth. The plot - twisty enough to make you suspect everyone, including the furniture. The vibe - scandal, shadows, loyalty, & a romance that sneaks up on you & then wallops you right in the heart. By the time the HEA lands, you’re sighing, smiling, & already eyeing the loyal men in Hawke’s circle like, “Yes, Adele, I’ll take their stories too.” Shadowmere has sins, & I’m ready to read every last one. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Their chemistry - a slow burn with teeth. The plot - twisty enough to make you suspect everyone, including the furniture. The vibe - scandal, shadows, loyalty, & a romance that sneaks up on you & then wallops you right in the heart. By the time the HEA lands, you’re sighing, smiling, & already eyeing the loyal men in Hawke’s circle like, “Yes, Adele, I’ll take their stories too.” Shadowmere has sins, & I’m ready to read every last one. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this first book of a new series. It has mysteries to solve - starting with his mother’s death, then her father’s murder, and finally finding out her mother’s death was suspicious also. The MMC has a loyal group of friends and employees which was gratifying as he is known as a notorious scoundrel, but underneath he has a heart of gold for those he cares about. The FMC is being “sold” by her father into an unwanted marriage so he can pay off his debts. The MMC wants to use her to hurt her father, but she turns the tables a bit as she wants to get out from under her father’s control. I enjoyed the banter between the two. I look forward to the next book in the series as his friends might be on the road to matrimony.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Treat!
The way the 'Sins' of Shadowmere played out, well, in the end we did get our perfect happy every after, so they were just wonderful!
What an absolute treat this story was! From beginning to end it gripped me with its wonderfully told, exciting romance blossoming into existence in the most amazing way.
There were also some cleverly interwoven mysteries to be solved and this was very satisfactorily accomplished.
And as for our main characters, Dominic and Daphne, they were just perfect!
I have just finished reading an early copy of this book, have thoroughly enjoyed it and am happy to leave my voluntary review.
The way the 'Sins' of Shadowmere played out, well, in the end we did get our perfect happy every after, so they were just wonderful!
What an absolute treat this story was! From beginning to end it gripped me with its wonderfully told, exciting romance blossoming into existence in the most amazing way.
There were also some cleverly interwoven mysteries to be solved and this was very satisfactorily accomplished.
And as for our main characters, Dominic and Daphne, they were just perfect!
I have just finished reading an early copy of this book, have thoroughly enjoyed it and am happy to leave my voluntary review.
May 11, 2026
I'm so excited for a new series from Adele Clee. We've met Dominic briefly in other books and I always thought there was more to him than met the eye, so it was great to get his story. Daphne was an excellent match for him, demanding more of him and refusing to let him ignore his feelings, but without pushing him too hard or too quickly. It was lovely to see these two seeking answers and justice together and relying on one another. I was also very intrigued by Dominic's friends and I'm very much looking forward to their stories now.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great start to a new series! Dominic Hawke is well known for the parties he holds at his home of Shadowmere. It also provided him with many secrets and this gave him both money and power. Miss Daphne Harland is one determined lady, she has no intention of being sold off to a man in his sixties that she detests. There is a mystery to solve that involves both Dominic and Daphne, it also puts them in dangerous situations. There are also plenty of passionate scenes. The reader also has a glimpse of Dominic’s three friends. Friends who are always there for each other, no matter what. They all have a problem, although it is yet to be revealed what that is. I look forward to reading their stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A brilliant start to a new series. Dominic Hawke has dedicated his life to seeking revenge on the person who destroyed his mother and finally has a name. He puts his plan for revenge into action only for it to have unexpected and far reaching consequences. Daphne is trapped by her gender and has very limited options but anything is better than marrying the man her father has chosen, even working as a maid for Dominic. Lots of twists and turns and multiple threads to untangle alongside a slow burn romance. Loved it and looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bless his heart Dominic, he’s bad and a scoundrel and … is not immune to the love bug. As always, Adele pens a tale that kept me captivated the entire story. The writing is beautiful, the story is compelling and the mystery is mysterious (especially the reasons why). I had no idea who the villain was (which is a specialty of Adele’s, lots of red herrings and suspense). The love story is slow burn so watch out for the eventual sizzle. Gracious me. I always say this, if you haven’t read an Adele book, pick one up and enjoy the excellent storytelling.
April 30, 2026
This book is about a man trying to get revenge on someone he felt hurt his mother, so it tries to get this revenge thru the man’s daughter, Daphne. Daphne’s father planned on marring her to some man who is three times her age, so when Dominic comes into a ball and ask her to dance for his revenge, Daphne goes for it, thinking it will get her out of the marriage her father planned. I like how Dominic changed when he was with Daphne, he was softer. I enjoyed this book, like I enjoy all of Adele Clee books.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
May 12, 2026
Great start to a new series from Adele Clee. Dominic Hawke is determined to see revenge for his mother’s death by ruining the daughter of his enemy Daphne Harland in a very public way. However things do t go as planned and he finds himself working with Daphne to solve the murder of her father. Plots abound involving scheming relatives, friends, debauchery and dangerous money lenders as the truth. Fantastic characters and a gripping storyline. Highly recommended
May 2, 2026
More of a mystery than romance and I figured out the culprit very easily. Also, Hawke wasn’t as dangerous and menacing as the author portrayed him to be at the very beginning so he fell flat for my taste.
May 4, 2026
Great Start
Another gripping book from Adele Clee. As always once started I could not put it down. Really looking forward to reading the stories of the other Rotten Scoundrels.
Another gripping book from Adele Clee. As always once started I could not put it down. Really looking forward to reading the stories of the other Rotten Scoundrels.
May 9, 2026
Beautiful, clever, passionate writing—
Amazing characters—
Sizzling chemistry, and sexual tension—
Slowwww burn—
Not too much actual spice though—
Cannot wait for the next in the series-
Amazing characters—
Sizzling chemistry, and sexual tension—
Slowwww burn—
Not too much actual spice though—
Cannot wait for the next in the series-
May 13, 2026
What an incredible start to a new series by Adele Clee. One of the best books I’ve read all year. I can’t wait for the next book.
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