Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Anything for Love #2

What You Propose

Rate this book
His mission was to give the lady sanctuary. Falling in love was never part of his agenda.
A woman running from the mistakes of the past …
As the infamous madam of one of London’s high-class brothels, Marie Labelle hides her true character behind a false façade. But when she comes to the aid of Lord Danesfield by killing the notorious Comte de Dampierre, Marie is whisked off to France to take refuge in an old abandoned monastery. Slapping the gentleman who had been so kind as to provide sanctuary was not the best way to thank him. But Marie had sworn never to bow and scrape to any man ever again. Yet when disturbing events lead her to believe her life is in danger, there is only one man she can turn to for help.

A man who must decide where his loyalty lies …
Rather than return to London and the father he despises, Marcus Danbury, the illegitimate son of an earl, works for the Crown or any member of the nobility willing to pay him. However, providing lodgings for the madam of a brothel was never on his agenda. Not when he wouldn’t see a penny for his trouble. But he owed Lord Danesfield a debt, and Marcus always paid his dues. Yet Lord Danesfield wants something more from him — information only his current guest can provide. Now it seems he has another assignment — one in the form a luscious temptress with a secret she swears never to tell.
.

Regency historical romance novel. This novel contains descriptive love scenes.

232 pages, ebook

Published April 8, 2016

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Adele Clee

57 books535 followers
Adele 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

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
208 (39%)
4 stars
181 (34%)
3 stars
113 (21%)
2 stars
22 (4%)
1 star
8 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews134 followers
Want to Read
July 17, 2018
💝FREE on Amazon today (7/17/2018)!💝

Blurb:
His mission was to give the lady sanctuary. Falling in love was never part of his agenda.
A woman running from the mistakes of the past …
As the infamous madam of one of London’s high-class brothels, Marie Labelle hides her true character behind a false façade. But when she comes to the aid of Lord Danesfield by killing the notorious Comte de Dampierre, Marie is whisked off to France to take refuge in an old abandoned monastery. Slapping the gentleman who had been so kind as to provide sanctuary was not the best way to thank him. But Marie had sworn never to bow and scrape to any man ever again. Yet when disturbing events lead her to believe her life is in danger, there is only one man she can turn to for help.

A man who must decide where his loyalty lies …
Rather than return to London and the father he despises, Marcus Danbury, the illegitimate son of an earl, works for the Crown or any member of the nobility willing to pay him. However, providing lodgings for the madam of a brothel was never on his agenda. Not when he wouldn’t see a penny for his trouble. But he owed Lord Danesfield a debt, and Marcus always paid his dues. Yet Lord Danesfield wants something more from him — information only his current guest can provide. Now it seems he has another assignment — one in the form a luscious temptress with a secret she swears never to tell.
Profile Image for BigComfyChairBookReviews.
182 reviews14 followers
January 2, 2018
Meh. Least favorite of the “Anything for Love” series. I love Adele Clee, but I wasn't as into this one as some of her previous works. I just couldn't connect with Marcus or Anne. I thought Anne was a huge missed opportunity. I pictured her as worldly, confident and sexy, as the Madam of a brothel, but she turned out to be naive, plain and utterly uninspiring. Their first sexual encounter was so awkward it was a huge turn-off. Marcus was also an enigma. He was described by others as a lady’s man who could get anything he wanted from a woman. But he turned out to be brooding, abrasive, and not at all charming. I don't have a problem with a moody hero but he was described by others as someone different. The whole story felt forced to me. I still recommend for fans of Adele Clee, maybe you'll like it more than me. I have read everything published by Adele Clee and one of my favorite things about her is her consistency. I think of her 18 works I've only given two 3-star ratings. The rest are 4s or 5s. So, if you liked this book I would recommend more of her books. This one is my personal favorite. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG.
Romance-5/5 Steaminess-4/5 Explicitness-3/5
https://bigcomfychair.wordpress.com/
Profile Image for Suzanne.
117 reviews2 followers
August 17, 2017
When Madame Marie Labelle arrives at the old abandoned monastery in France seeking sanctuary, the last thing she wants to encounter is another man wanting her to cater to his every whim. Marcus takes Marie in as a favor to his friend, Dane, but can’t get the image of her previous profession as the Madam of a high-priced brothel in London out of his head. Marie was pressed into her profession by Victor, the man she just murdered in London, saving Dane’s life in the process. Marie just wants to go back to being Anna, the girl she was before she met Victor. Marcus is the bastard son of an earl, whom he despises, and has been doing investigations for the crown and others for years, although he never wants to return to England. Although Anna and Marcus get off to a very rocky start, Anna and Tristan, a friend of Marcus, become fast friends. Things become more difficult when Tristan is called back to London after the death of his brother, and Anna begins accompanying Marcus on his nightly reconnaissance. There is definite spark of attraction between Anna and Marcus but everything is not what it seems. When Anna’s past threatens the present and Marcus’s investigation takes a strange turn, will the couple survive in tact?

This is the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it. I was immediately drawn to Anna and Tristan because of their personal histories. Marcus is jerk in the beginning but his character evolves as the story moves forward. There were plenty of plot twists and turns to keep my interest. I liked the detailed descriptions of locations and people throughout the book. While this is a historical romance, there is more suspense than there is history. I thought it was very well written and a pretty quick read. Since this is the second book in a series, I will have to go back and read the first one and I look forward to reading the next.

I received an ARC of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest review.
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,087 reviews132 followers
August 16, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author, but I cannot wait to read more! This is a story of two damaged souls who meet in an unusual way. Anna, previously known a madame at a brothel in London, is on the run. Through a mutual acquaintance, she ends in France at a monastery that is actually the home of Marcus Danbury. From the first, sparks fly and mystery abounds as each keeps their secrets to themselves. Anna is constantly afraid of someone finding her and giving out retribution for her past deeds. What are those you ask? Well you will have to read this very intriguing story, filled with suspense, humor and a mystery to find out. The author pulls the characters together and brings you into the story with the banter and attraction between Anna and Marcus. A surprise ending and leaving a secondary character that has to have a story, leaves you awaiting the next book! Although this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone book.
Profile Image for 🦉Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews115 followers
November 2, 2017
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
I loved this book so much , Marcus is the bastard son of a duke , working in France on behalf of the British government , he is looking for smugglers .
Anna is the ex madam of a London brothel, sent to France for her own protection, she ends up at an old monastery, owned by Marcus , upon meeting he makes salacious comments and is slapped for his un-gentlemanly behaviour.
On they’re quest for the smugglers, for a relationship based on trust , for the resulting peace that they both crave , they must first fight their personal demons , but will they be able to help each other in their Pursuit for happiness and the lives they crave.
A wonderful story of love.
It’s brilliantly written and holds you from the first page .
I love all Adele’s work she really is a superb author.
Highly recommended you read this series in order , as the stories are linked .
This is a completely voluntary review, after I received an Arc copy of the book
2,357 reviews11 followers
May 23, 2018
This is the second book in the Anything for Love series and it ties in beautifully with the the first one.
It tells the love story of the ex-Madame whom we knew as Madame Labelle in book 1 and Marcus who has been asked to protect her after she flees England.
There are adventures, mysteries to be solved, bad people to deal with and some very good ones to associate with too, a very unexpected surprise and above all, the wonderful, blossoming love between two very special people.
Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am happy to say that I will begin reading the third book shortly.
In my review of the first book in this series I stated, "...it is my humble opinion that this series will outdo all the others by this talented author" and so far, so good. I stand by my prediction but of course, this is only my opinion.
I requested and received a free copy of this ebook and the above is my voluntary and unbiased review of it.
830 reviews7 followers
February 26, 2017
This is the fifth book of Adele Clee's I've read. All are solidly written.
"What You Propose" continues where "What You Desire" ended (but can be read as a stand alone) and lets us know what happened to Madame Labelle after she escaped London.
To keep Anna safe, Dane has sent her to his friend Marcus, who lives in an abandoned monastery in France. Of course, mutual attraction develops - instantly on Marcus's side. Anna is worried Victor's co-conspirator may come after her. Marcus works for the crown, investigating smugglers. Both add suspense to the story; while this reader suspected some secondary characters, it is not until the very end that the intrigue and motives are clear.
Have added the third in the trilogy "What You Deserve" to my to-read list.
Profile Image for Debbie Borthwick.
460 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2017
A very good read, I enjoyed this book and recommend it. I was given an advanced copy to give my honest opinion on the book.
Intrigue and romance make for a good reading experience. There were twists that I didn't expect and turns that surprised.
A Regency period book that takes place in France, it has spies, smugglers, and a love that stands true. This is the first book I've read from Adele Clee and I know it won't be my last.
Profile Image for Sarah Hamilton.
733 reviews3 followers
August 14, 2017
Fun Historical Romance

If you're looking for a fun, quick read, with a dash of steamy romance and a slight historical nod - this is a book for you. If you're looking for a more historically rich story woven in - this is not your book. Although I prefer the later, I'm still enjoying the series. Learning more of Anna's story is enjoyable (a character you'll tenner from Book 1) and Marcus is a great addition to the series. Perfect for a quick beach read.
261 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2018
A fun and entertaining read.

Adele Clee does it again. Anna/Marie and Marcus' journey in finding love was a fun, mysterious, a little bit dangerous and very entertaining story. It's exactly what I was looking for in a story. It allowed me to immerse myself into and become a part of the Regency period for a little while without myself experiencing all the restrictions imposed upon the women of the day.
Profile Image for Stephanie Bolen.
2,175 reviews28 followers
December 26, 2019
The characters were unusual

I think I've read about Marie in a previous book. The plot was a bit higgledy-piggledy with no mystery or real danger. The interactions were good. The delving of character motivations was slightly unrealistic. It has enough going for it that it was a fun read. I just wish the old tried and true woman's motivation had been left in the dust. It was as if everything had depth but that and it made everything fall flat just by being there.
160 reviews
December 24, 2016
One of my favourite authors

I am really enjoying this series of books although I was disappointed with book. Although good, it didn't have the thrills and intrigue of the previous ones. I love the Madame Labelle character and had hoped for a more meatier story about her. I am glad that she discovered true love in the end.
2,499 reviews29 followers
August 5, 2017
It took me a few chapters to get into this story, probably because it had been a while since I read the first in the series. However, from then on , I couldn't put it down. There was the growing awareness of the feelings between Marcus and Anna, as well as smuggling and treachery. A most enjoyable story. I look forward to reading Tristan's story in the next book.
Profile Image for Monika.
487 reviews
August 6, 2017
What You Propose is the second book in the Anything for Love series. It's another sweet love story with a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. Ms Clee shows a great sense of humor with this story. The verbal sparring of the main characters had me laughing out loud. And, of course we get a happy ending. An all around enjoyable book. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Susan.
7,425 reviews70 followers
August 6, 2017
1820 France and Madame Marie Labelle has been sent from England by the Marquess of Danefield to the home of Marcus Danbury.
Though Danbury works for the British Crown or any member of the nobility who can pay, providing a sanctuary for a brothel madam was not something he envisioned doing.
An enjoyable, well-written romance with a hint of mystery.
336 reviews
April 7, 2020
Disappointed

I usually like this author but disappointed. The adventurous love plot was excellent but I got fed up of all the touchy feely looking longingly and sex pages. This totally spoilt the story for me as it took up a lot of the book. Anybody can write sex but a good adventure story no. Please stick to the adventure mainly its what you do best.
Profile Image for Angela Harriman.
456 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2023
Rather dark and confusing

I really can't say I enjoyed this one. I liked the main characters but I kept getting confused about the details. I think she tried to cram too much in. The flow is definitely shaky and the pace felt rushed. The climax just laid down and fizzled. Very disappointing.
Profile Image for Kathy Brickert.
3,566 reviews17 followers
June 4, 2017
Lovely tale

Story of smugglers, spies, former Madame, and love gone amiss! How exciting and what more could you ask for! A new author to me, but I am eagerly waiting to start the next book in this series!
341 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2018
Raw and thrilling

The base context of Anna's subplot is raw and ugly. The atrocities committed against women is still happening today. The fighting against Victor, set Anna free from years of abuse, to realize that all men are not Monsters and prayers do come true.
174 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2018
Too Long

It gets a three because it started out good but after a while it just dragged on. I skipped to the end by after Chapter 13. I don't know if I will read the next in the series or refer this author.
359 reviews6 followers
August 5, 2018
Spies and Romance

This was an interesting book that takes place in France in a monistary. The romance was between a spy and a lady with a besmurshed reputation.
I would highly recommend this book to a mature audience.
Profile Image for April Neal.
484 reviews
August 13, 2018
Enjoyable

A good story of not all is as it seems. Here our two have gone through a life of hardship and now find themselves dealing with some unexpected turns that help draw them together. I enjoyed there story.
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,731 reviews6 followers
September 22, 2019
Anna was a madame named Marie. She killed the man who had kept her enslaved. As a result she fled to France to hide out. Marcus has agreed to give her a place to stay for a while. He is basically a spy. How the two interact is a good story.
1,131 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2020
Did not disappoint

I enjoyed following up on Madame LaBelle. I would have liked a little more of her background and Marcus' as well. I liked both characters but wanted to know more. I knew Tristan would be next and I am interested in his story.
Profile Image for MooseGirl.
792 reviews4 followers
March 29, 2020
Although I did enjoy this book, I didn't like it quite as much as the first one in the series. I didn't feel quite the same connection between this couple. Still, overall, it was a good read, just not the best in the series.
Profile Image for Kat.
1,147 reviews21 followers
September 29, 2020
I love how Adele Clee seamlessly moves from each book into the next! Filled with mystery, great banter between characters, and searing sexual tension, you can’t help but love her story line and personable characters. ❤️
Profile Image for Carolyn Moon.
176 reviews
January 16, 2024
Wonderful Historical Romance!

A great second book in a exciting series. There are enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages until the end. Mystery and romance at its best.
Profile Image for Michelle.
629 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2024
a good read—-

There was a reader who reviewed this book and said there was porn in it— lol—
there were 2 sex scenes-no porn— this author always writes good love stories - good mysteries- this one was good, not great-
Profile Image for Annette.
1,179 reviews
July 15, 2018
WHAT YOU PROPOSE : is an average historical romance. Not a lot of steam here.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews