What do you think?
Rate this book
The League of Rogues #2
His Wicked Seduction
Can the League’s most wicked rakehell be tamed? Or has this Rogue fallen too far?
Horatia Sheridan has been hopelessly in love with Lucien, her brother’s best friend, ever since he rescued her from the broken remains of her parents’ wrecked carriage. His reputation as London’s most notorious rakehell doesn’t frighten her, for under his veneer of cool authority she has glimpsed a man whose wicked desires inspire her own.
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, has deliberately nurtured a reputation for debauchery that makes every matchmaking mother of the ton quake with fear. His one secret: he is torn between soul-ripping lust for Horatia, and the loyalty he owes her brother.
That loyalty is put to the test when an old enemy of the League threatens Horatia’s life. With Christmas drawing near, he sweeps her away to his country estate, where he can’t resist granting her one wish—to share his bed and his heart.
But sinister forces are lurking, awaiting the perfect moment to exact their revenge by destroying not only whatever happiness Lucien might find in Horatia’s arms, but the lives of those they love.
Warning: This book contains an intelligent lady who is determined to seduce her brother’s friend, a brooding rake whose toy of choice in bed is a little bit of bondage with a piece of red silk, a loyal band of merry rogues and a Christmas love so scorching you’ll need fresh snow to extinguish it.
*Includes Exclusive Scene Art and Illustrations!
This book was previously published by Samhain Publishing and is now re-released.
Horatia Sheridan has been hopelessly in love with Lucien, her brother’s best friend, ever since he rescued her from the broken remains of her parents’ wrecked carriage. His reputation as London’s most notorious rakehell doesn’t frighten her, for under his veneer of cool authority she has glimpsed a man whose wicked desires inspire her own.
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, has deliberately nurtured a reputation for debauchery that makes every matchmaking mother of the ton quake with fear. His one secret: he is torn between soul-ripping lust for Horatia, and the loyalty he owes her brother.
That loyalty is put to the test when an old enemy of the League threatens Horatia’s life. With Christmas drawing near, he sweeps her away to his country estate, where he can’t resist granting her one wish—to share his bed and his heart.
But sinister forces are lurking, awaiting the perfect moment to exact their revenge by destroying not only whatever happiness Lucien might find in Horatia’s arms, but the lives of those they love.
Warning: This book contains an intelligent lady who is determined to seduce her brother’s friend, a brooding rake whose toy of choice in bed is a little bit of bondage with a piece of red silk, a loyal band of merry rogues and a Christmas love so scorching you’ll need fresh snow to extinguish it.
*Includes Exclusive Scene Art and Illustrations!
This book was previously published by Samhain Publishing and is now re-released.
380 pages, ebook
First published November 11, 2014
592 people are currently reading
1189 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Smith
142 books2,200 followersLauren Smith is a USA Today Best-Selling author and an Oklahoma attorney. She knew she was destined to be a romance writer when she attempted to re-write the entire Titanic movie just to save Jack from drowning. Connecting with readers by writing emotionally moving, realistic and sexy romances no matter what time period is her passion. She’s won multiple awards in several romance subgenres including: New England Reader’s Choice Awards, Greater Detroit BookSeller’s Best Awards, Amazon.com Breakthrough Novel Award Quarter-Finalist and a Semi-Finalist for the Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Award. To connect with Lauren, visit her at www.laurensmithbooks.com or twitter at @LSmithAuthor.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
November 9, 2014
5 - "I always knew she'd be the death of me." Stars!
Lauren Smith did it again, book one took me places I have never really wanted to go before, its follow-up took me back and I just, don't want to leave. I am still absolutely stunned by how much I have fallen head over heels with The League of Rogues I want more, I want it now, and if I thought it would work, I would hold my breath until Lauren gave into my whims!
"Sleep, my dear, and dream of the stars."
His Wicked Seduction takes up where Wicked Designs left off, and although this book is mainly about the blossoming romance between Horatia Sheridan and Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, the series as a whole also develops at a very fast clip. We are approaching Christmas 1820, and the threat from Hugo Waverly against the League and their families has grown exponentially.
"The one woman he could never possess was the first woman he'd ever felt uninhibited with.
Lucien and Horatia's story is very different to that of Godric's and Emily's (Wicked Designs) both have been in love with the other longer than they care to admit. Although this is something Lucien, for the most part has tried to deny, and has spent the intervening years honing his rather 'particular' talents in the bedroom with other less respectable ladies.
Lucien loved women, but he didn't fall in love with them.
Horatia also as the sister of Cedric is off limits due to the Leagues rules about it's members getting involved with other members sisters. The undeniable attraction between the two leads to some absolutely hilarious shenanigans as well as some rather beautifully written, and pretty emotional moments as well. I think that is why I love this series so much, Lauren has injected each book with such vivid descriptions, situations and conversations, you as the reader just do not have time to get distracted by the outside world.
"Heaven looks quite lovely from this angle."
I think my review for book one fully outlines just how much I love this series. Lauren Smith has given me another book in a genre that I never thought or anticipated I would enjoy so much. I wouldn't say I am now a Historical Romance convert, but if Lauren has written it, I am going to be front and center every time, because I know without a shadow of a doubt I am going to devour each and every page.
"You play with fire, darling, and I don't wish to burn you."
"I want to share my life, my name and my soul with you."
I want to give this book as I did book one, 6 stars. It is just that good. I love the Rogues, and I cannot wait for more of them, hopefully I won't have too long to wait.
ARC kindly supplied by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure in providing the above honest review.
Lauren Smith did it again, book one took me places I have never really wanted to go before, its follow-up took me back and I just, don't want to leave. I am still absolutely stunned by how much I have fallen head over heels with The League of Rogues I want more, I want it now, and if I thought it would work, I would hold my breath until Lauren gave into my whims!
"Sleep, my dear, and dream of the stars."
His Wicked Seduction takes up where Wicked Designs left off, and although this book is mainly about the blossoming romance between Horatia Sheridan and Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, the series as a whole also develops at a very fast clip. We are approaching Christmas 1820, and the threat from Hugo Waverly against the League and their families has grown exponentially.
"The one woman he could never possess was the first woman he'd ever felt uninhibited with.
Lucien and Horatia's story is very different to that of Godric's and Emily's (Wicked Designs) both have been in love with the other longer than they care to admit. Although this is something Lucien, for the most part has tried to deny, and has spent the intervening years honing his rather 'particular' talents in the bedroom with other less respectable ladies.
Lucien loved women, but he didn't fall in love with them.
Horatia also as the sister of Cedric is off limits due to the Leagues rules about it's members getting involved with other members sisters. The undeniable attraction between the two leads to some absolutely hilarious shenanigans as well as some rather beautifully written, and pretty emotional moments as well. I think that is why I love this series so much, Lauren has injected each book with such vivid descriptions, situations and conversations, you as the reader just do not have time to get distracted by the outside world.
"Heaven looks quite lovely from this angle."
I think my review for book one fully outlines just how much I love this series. Lauren Smith has given me another book in a genre that I never thought or anticipated I would enjoy so much. I wouldn't say I am now a Historical Romance convert, but if Lauren has written it, I am going to be front and center every time, because I know without a shadow of a doubt I am going to devour each and every page.
"You play with fire, darling, and I don't wish to burn you."
"I want to share my life, my name and my soul with you."
I want to give this book as I did book one, 6 stars. It is just that good. I love the Rogues, and I cannot wait for more of them, hopefully I won't have too long to wait.
ARC kindly supplied by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure in providing the above honest review.
March 3, 2016
This is the second book in Lauren Smith’s League of Rogues series and I couldn’t wait to be in the company of those loveable rogues Godric, Lucien, Cedric, Charles and Ashton once again.
Lucien…
The hero falling for his best friend’s sister just happens to be one of my favourite tropes. I enjoyed that “forbidden love” aspect which raises the heat level of the sexual tension between Lucien and Horatia and causes such a dilemma for Lucien.
Lucien has managed to hide his attraction to Horatia beneath a show of coldness. Horatia deserves better than someone as debauched as him and he is unwilling to expose her to his darker passions.
She was too good a woman for him, and he was far too wicked to be worthy of her. Rather like a demon falling for an angel.
Of course, he finds it harder and harder to resist Horatia’s allure and I enjoyed watching him lose control and succumb to temptation.
“Christ. I’m no saint woman. I can’t… Oh to hell with it.”
The warmth of his breath tickled her lips before he devoured her throat in a slow languid kiss.
Horatia…
Horatia is the perfect match for Lucien with her intelligence and strength. She knows what she wants and is willing to go after it and I liked that about her. I enjoyed the smouldering scene in the Midnight Club when Lucien introduces Horatia to passion in the hope that it might scare her away, only to find it has the opposite effect. I love the scene afterwards when they are looking at the stars. There seems a special connection between them and it’s a lovely romantic moment when Lucien calls Horatia his ‘lovely stargazer’.
I love Lucien for being there whenever Horatia needs him most – comforting the distraught fourteen year old girl when her parents are killed or easing the pain of losing her beloved cat, Muff.
This moment, this embrace, was everything that mattered. A man who would do this for her was the only man she could ever have, ever want.
Although, I know Cedric loves his sister and wants to protect her, I felt like shaking him until his teeth rattled because of his actions towards Lucien. Cedric fails to see beyond Lucien’s reputation to the honourable, caring man beneath until Lucien proves to be a true hero risking his life for those he loves.
What I love about the secondary characters is they each have their own distinct personalities. Ms Smith gives us a little more insight into both Charles and Ashton’s characters and I enjoyed seeing Godric and Emily so deliriously happy. I adored Audrey, Horatia’s sister, and fell in love with Lucien’s mad-cap siblings. My favourite secondary character has to be Lucien’s mother, Lady Rochester who actively encourages Horatia to seduce Lucien and whose voice can still have her sons running for cover!
“Sit down, all of you.” She’d spent twenty years perfecting that tone of voice and Avery, Lawrence and Linus all but dove for the nearest chairs.
I love how all the ladies band together to form The Society of Rebellious Ladies and the snow ball fight between the ladies and the men is hilarious. It reminded me of the deadly game of Pall Mall the Bridgertons play in Julia Quinn’s The Viscount Who Loved Me.
The plot had plenty of action, danger and betrayal as the League’s enemy, Hugo Waverly, plots his revenge, threatening not only the League members but their families as well. I wasn’t prepared for the tragic event which occurred towards the end. It was a bit of a shocker.
My Favourite Quote
He tugged long slender strip of crimson silk out from the center pages. Too long for a bookmark, it was embroidered with silver stars and crescent moons. “I thought you might find other uses for that.” Horatia nibbled her lower lip with a gleam in her eyes. Damn the woman, she was perfect. Too bloody perfect.
His Wicked Seduction is another wonderful addition to such an entertaining series. Eagerly awaiting Cedric’s story now.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
League of Rogues series so far (click on the book cover for more details):
My sincere thanks to Lauren Smith for providing me with a copy of her book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
Lucien…
The hero falling for his best friend’s sister just happens to be one of my favourite tropes. I enjoyed that “forbidden love” aspect which raises the heat level of the sexual tension between Lucien and Horatia and causes such a dilemma for Lucien.
Lucien has managed to hide his attraction to Horatia beneath a show of coldness. Horatia deserves better than someone as debauched as him and he is unwilling to expose her to his darker passions.
She was too good a woman for him, and he was far too wicked to be worthy of her. Rather like a demon falling for an angel.
Of course, he finds it harder and harder to resist Horatia’s allure and I enjoyed watching him lose control and succumb to temptation.
“Christ. I’m no saint woman. I can’t… Oh to hell with it.”
The warmth of his breath tickled her lips before he devoured her throat in a slow languid kiss.
Horatia…
Horatia is the perfect match for Lucien with her intelligence and strength. She knows what she wants and is willing to go after it and I liked that about her. I enjoyed the smouldering scene in the Midnight Club when Lucien introduces Horatia to passion in the hope that it might scare her away, only to find it has the opposite effect. I love the scene afterwards when they are looking at the stars. There seems a special connection between them and it’s a lovely romantic moment when Lucien calls Horatia his ‘lovely stargazer’.
I love Lucien for being there whenever Horatia needs him most – comforting the distraught fourteen year old girl when her parents are killed or easing the pain of losing her beloved cat, Muff.
This moment, this embrace, was everything that mattered. A man who would do this for her was the only man she could ever have, ever want.
Although, I know Cedric loves his sister and wants to protect her, I felt like shaking him until his teeth rattled because of his actions towards Lucien. Cedric fails to see beyond Lucien’s reputation to the honourable, caring man beneath until Lucien proves to be a true hero risking his life for those he loves.
What I love about the secondary characters is they each have their own distinct personalities. Ms Smith gives us a little more insight into both Charles and Ashton’s characters and I enjoyed seeing Godric and Emily so deliriously happy. I adored Audrey, Horatia’s sister, and fell in love with Lucien’s mad-cap siblings. My favourite secondary character has to be Lucien’s mother, Lady Rochester who actively encourages Horatia to seduce Lucien and whose voice can still have her sons running for cover!
“Sit down, all of you.” She’d spent twenty years perfecting that tone of voice and Avery, Lawrence and Linus all but dove for the nearest chairs.
I love how all the ladies band together to form The Society of Rebellious Ladies and the snow ball fight between the ladies and the men is hilarious. It reminded me of the deadly game of Pall Mall the Bridgertons play in Julia Quinn’s The Viscount Who Loved Me.
The plot had plenty of action, danger and betrayal as the League’s enemy, Hugo Waverly, plots his revenge, threatening not only the League members but their families as well. I wasn’t prepared for the tragic event which occurred towards the end. It was a bit of a shocker.
My Favourite Quote
He tugged long slender strip of crimson silk out from the center pages. Too long for a bookmark, it was embroidered with silver stars and crescent moons. “I thought you might find other uses for that.” Horatia nibbled her lower lip with a gleam in her eyes. Damn the woman, she was perfect. Too bloody perfect.
His Wicked Seduction is another wonderful addition to such an entertaining series. Eagerly awaiting Cedric’s story now.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
League of Rogues series so far (click on the book cover for more details):
My sincere thanks to Lauren Smith for providing me with a copy of her book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
http://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com/...
May 3, 2019
Lucien let's his freak flag fly. It's nothing for him to sleep with two women at a time with others in the room. All members of The League of Rogues know he's a deviant that loves to tie women up.
The League has few rules, but the most important is that "Sisters Are Off Limits"!!
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester
So when Lucien falls for the sister of his best friend, Viscount Cedric Sheridan, there is total hell to pay!!
Totally sucked into this series and can't wait to read the next installment. I'm also keeping in mind that there are things happening in these books that I find impossible to believe. But I'm still enjoying the crazy ride.
The League has few rules, but the most important is that "Sisters Are Off Limits"!!
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester
So when Lucien falls for the sister of his best friend, Viscount Cedric Sheridan, there is total hell to pay!!
Totally sucked into this series and can't wait to read the next installment. I'm also keeping in mind that there are things happening in these books that I find impossible to believe. But I'm still enjoying the crazy ride.
September 7, 2022
4 Stars
Lauren Smith is an author to watch!
- Great writing & plot
- Interestingly adorable band of rogues & rakes
- A sweet & spicy twist on lusting after best friend's sister/ brother's best friend
- Lucien's withholding ran too long but the wait was worth it
- Horatia's persistence
- The beautiful romance
- The tragic accident
This series has something for everyone!
Lauren Smith is an author to watch!
- Great writing & plot
- Interestingly adorable band of rogues & rakes
- A sweet & spicy twist on lusting after best friend's sister/ brother's best friend
- Lucien's withholding ran too long but the wait was worth it
- Horatia's persistence
- The beautiful romance
- The tragic accident
This series has something for everyone!
March 14, 2022
Horatia Sheridan has been nursing her love for her brother’s best friend, Lucien, for years. She is undaunted by his reputation as a rake because she knows she can meet his darkest desires with wicked intentions of her own.
Lucien Russell, the Marquess of Rochester, has done nothing to ameliorate his tarnished reputation, preferring to keep matchmaking mothers away because he is torn between his desire for Horatia and his loyalty to her brother and the pact they made making sisters off limits.
They are all put under immense strain when Horatia’s life is threatened by an enemy of their group of friends. They all flee to Lucien’s country estate for the Christmas season where Lucien finally succumbs to his desire for Horatia, but with their enemies looming ever closer, their burgeoning happiness is threatened by more than just her brother’s temper.
I wound up liking this book rather more than I had expected to. There was a lot of time spent on setting up the villain and his schemes as an overarching theme for the series and that did pull me out of the story some, but it always managed to bring me back. On those lines though, I could’ve done without the scenes devoted to Audrey’s antics; she was just immature and annoying to me, and I wanted to get back things with Horatia and Lucien. I couldn’t help but cheer Horatia on as she finally stood up for herself and the future she wanted. Lucien was harder to get behind with his standoffish behavior and coldness to Horatia, even after they had shared some intimacies. Fortunately, he did eventually come to his senses, and I liked how, once that happened, he was unapologetically determined to be with Horatia. Her brother Cedric’s behavior on the other hand was just completely over the top and he caused many problems and much pain that could’ve been avoided. I was not at all pleased with Cedric and his seeming disregard for his sister’s feelings, just assuming he must know best without giving either Lucien or Horatia a chance, so I hope he’ll redeem himself in the next book. Otherwise, I enjoyed the fact that Lucien finally allowed his true self and deeper emotions to be revealed to Horatia, trusting her not to reject him. Perhaps my favorite aspect was Lucien’s mother’s attempts to help Horatia make him see sense. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I’d like to continue the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lucien Russell, the Marquess of Rochester, has done nothing to ameliorate his tarnished reputation, preferring to keep matchmaking mothers away because he is torn between his desire for Horatia and his loyalty to her brother and the pact they made making sisters off limits.
They are all put under immense strain when Horatia’s life is threatened by an enemy of their group of friends. They all flee to Lucien’s country estate for the Christmas season where Lucien finally succumbs to his desire for Horatia, but with their enemies looming ever closer, their burgeoning happiness is threatened by more than just her brother’s temper.
I wound up liking this book rather more than I had expected to. There was a lot of time spent on setting up the villain and his schemes as an overarching theme for the series and that did pull me out of the story some, but it always managed to bring me back. On those lines though, I could’ve done without the scenes devoted to Audrey’s antics; she was just immature and annoying to me, and I wanted to get back things with Horatia and Lucien. I couldn’t help but cheer Horatia on as she finally stood up for herself and the future she wanted. Lucien was harder to get behind with his standoffish behavior and coldness to Horatia, even after they had shared some intimacies. Fortunately, he did eventually come to his senses, and I liked how, once that happened, he was unapologetically determined to be with Horatia. Her brother Cedric’s behavior on the other hand was just completely over the top and he caused many problems and much pain that could’ve been avoided. I was not at all pleased with Cedric and his seeming disregard for his sister’s feelings, just assuming he must know best without giving either Lucien or Horatia a chance, so I hope he’ll redeem himself in the next book. Otherwise, I enjoyed the fact that Lucien finally allowed his true self and deeper emotions to be revealed to Horatia, trusting her not to reject him. Perhaps my favorite aspect was Lucien’s mother’s attempts to help Horatia make him see sense. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I’d like to continue the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 16, 2022
I liked this book a little less than the first one but it was still super entertaining. There's an old enemy going after the friends and I am enjoying the chase... what I didn't enjoy so much was the romance, but unrequited love isn't one of my favorites. The heroine was in love with the hero for 7 years and the hero did everything in his power to push her away.
I am enjoying the fact that each hero has a problem, like depression, alcoholism, anger issues, childhood trauma and so on and each problem are slowly being dealt with.
And what an end! I am very curious to see what is going to happen next.
PS: If you like more of a dom type of romance with bondage and such, you're going to enjoy this hero ;)
I am enjoying the fact that each hero has a problem, like depression, alcoholism, anger issues, childhood trauma and so on and each problem are slowly being dealt with.
And what an end! I am very curious to see what is going to happen next.
PS: If you like more of a dom type of romance with bondage and such, you're going to enjoy this hero ;)
dnf-too-early-to-mark-it-read
December 16, 2025He'd apologize, of course. But women were masters of holding guilt in trust and collecting interests on it.
This is what the hero thinks of the woman he's been interested in for years? The one he thinks is level headed and smart? Jeez, how does he view other women? 💀
Still hunting for something decent on the plus catalogue...
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐬
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
November 16, 2014
The League of Rogues Rule #2: One must never seduce another member's sister... THE FORBIDDEN FRUIT SYNDROME IS BORN!
Lucien Russell, Marquess of Rochester, is slowly dying from CRAVINGS for what he can never have, a Leagues member's sister, Horatia. The League of Rogues are his forever friends who bonded over tragic accident & Godric, Charles, Cedric & Ashton would die for him & Lucien for them. To deal with his all consuming Horatia addiction, Lucien has used her disastrous youthful "cold water bucket" moment as a subterfuge for his coldness toward her. It has worked for many years, but with the threat from Sir Hugo Waverly towards their League, he keeps finding himself closer to his smoldering munchies for his FORBIDDEN FRUIT!
Horatia Sheridan is the sister of Charles & Audrey & her brother's League has always been part of her family for as long as she can remember. She & her siblings were orphaned at an earlier age, but she was in the carriage with her parents when the accident that killed them happened & it was Lucien who pulled her out of the overturned carriage & away from the carnage of that devastated moment. This unique League has always made her fell safe, protected & treasured her & treated her as their sister, but she wants Lucien to see her as his desirable woman! Ever since that she accidental dumped that bucket of cold water over the undeserving woman that Lucien proposed to, he has been cold & distance from her & it is slowly destroying her heart & soul.
With the heat turned up to destroy their League, Lucien has been using the excuse to stalk Horatia more & after the runaway carriage on her shopping trip, Lucien is in 24/7 HADES with staying overnight at Horatia's, but protect he would. Horatia can't take Lucien indifference much long, but soon her world brightens with his stolen UNDIES SCORCHING kisses, if only he wouldn't pull away. She decides to get some get her man with a masquerade mask, a bribe to Lucien's footman & a payoff to the Midnight Garden's Madame, but soon the tables are turned as Lucien knows its her when she walks thru the door & he is so going to enjoy scaring her straight! Horatia can't believe all her sexually dreams are coming true as he slowly kisses & caresses her into heaven, but Lucien whips out his silk red bindings, ties her to the bed & makes her girlie parts SCREAM with their first taste of satisfaction, but instead of scaring her, he only draws her & himself in a tangle web of seduction!
Only later that night in the garden, they over hear the threaten voices talking about burying all the League members & they tiny bubble is burst, but soon the League awakens The Society of Rebellious Ladies (Emily, Horatia & Audrey), plan for Cedric & his sisters to Lucien's Kent estate for the holidays & he is not only going to be forced with her everywhere, but is going into the pit of his grandbabies craving mom & his wacky family! With Lady Rochester on the HUNT for some grandbabies, a house party full of meddling family members, Lucien popping wood left & right, a hilarious snowball fortress fight (the females kick a$$), delicious kisses that ignite a burning fire between her legs, 3 brothers following mommy's directive to induce Lucien's jealously, Hugo's many spies causing a ruckus, those naughty silk red bindings, a spoken secret, fist fights & a stupid male induced duel push Lucien to finally devour that tasty FORBIDDEN FRUIT! Can Horatia not only get her Lucien, but get to keep him? Will Lucien allow himself to trust his love for Horatia? If they finally embrace their love, will Cedric over look The League Rule #2? Can the League stop Hugo Waverly before it's to late? When will Lady Rochester get her some grandbabies? Who is the next Rogue to fall?
This is the 2nd book of The League of Rogues series & holy HADES this series just get better with each book. Now I want to chat about this LOLA HAPPY DANCE WORTHY book cover, that beotch slapped my eyeballs & made me hungrier this book, but it also inspired my tagline, FORBIDDEN FRUIT SYNDROME, so I have to say, KUDOS to Ms. Smith for the inspiration! Horatia is a combination of a bluestock & wallflower, but she has an incredible inner strength that only Lucien seems to be able to see. Now she is also a GOOD GIRL & all GOOD GIRLS need to be BAD, but I loved how she not only unleashed her inner HO, but COMMANDED & DEMANDED her to only make Lucien her sexual prisoner, but her panting SLAVE! Ms. Smith made Horatia a strong heroine, but gave her a soft vulnerability that ensnared her man. Lucien was a hero who growup in a loving home, but he had a hard time with trust & showing love to all women. He always kept woman at a safe distance & those red silky bindings helped him keep that distance. Ms. Smith made Lucien a hero who held himself back from everyone, but not from his family or the League, until Horatia cracked thru his hardened amour. Ms. Smith made The League of Rogues into the 3rd character of this romance & it couldn't be half as good as a book without them all because who could love this pack of MALE NAUGHTINESS! The Society of Rebellious Ladies was formed & was the perfect match to the League & I can't wait to watch its membership grow & overtake the Rogues! Now all romances need sparks & in my humble opinion many SCREAMING moments & Ms. Smith first built up sexual tension that only a chainsaw could cut through, but when FORBIDDEN FRUIT is gobbled up, y'all will whip out the FIRE EXTINGUISHERS for all the tantalizing shivers & quivers & "No AA BATTERIES REQUIRED" moments of utterly decadence scenes! I loved all the Fairy Godthingies moments with an unusual cast including the furry kitty, meddling mama bear, super smart Audrey, clever Charles & even 3 clueless brothers! Also many other League members are meeting women who might be their match & I will be watching for in the other League books, like Anne Chessley & Lady Melbourne. Ms. Smith had a evil & formidable villain in Hugo Waverly & his endless supply of willing & unwilling folks who spy for him causing intrigue & made me wait for the next baddie to pop up & cause a fuss. Ms. Smith is one of my favorite authors & when y'all read this book she will collect more new fans! She has yet to disappoint me with her romances & she filled this 1 with a strong heroine who RELEASED HER SEXUAL KRAKEN, a hero that's a alpha BAD BOY needing the pothole ridden path to find love whether he was ready or not, has many mini stories inside her main story, a pack of baddies, many unexpected Fairy Godthingie moment with PIXIE DUST causing a fuss, a holiday house party, some yummy bondage, many ROFL & HYPERVENTILATING moments of hilariousness galore & made my vajayjay bust out with holiday happiness! So for her read that made me smile, belly laugh which caused my furry blankie's to draw blood, scream at male stupidity, rejoice for the birth of The Society of Rebellious Ladies, inspire my new tagline, made me disconnect my bedroom smoke detector for the endless Kindle Fire sparks (get it Fire) & yes Mizz Toula tear up, Ms. Smith gets my top score of 5 fingers up & 10 toes once again & I can't wait to see which League of Rogues that falls next!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
Lucien Russell, Marquess of Rochester, is slowly dying from CRAVINGS for what he can never have, a Leagues member's sister, Horatia. The League of Rogues are his forever friends who bonded over tragic accident & Godric, Charles, Cedric & Ashton would die for him & Lucien for them. To deal with his all consuming Horatia addiction, Lucien has used her disastrous youthful "cold water bucket" moment as a subterfuge for his coldness toward her. It has worked for many years, but with the threat from Sir Hugo Waverly towards their League, he keeps finding himself closer to his smoldering munchies for his FORBIDDEN FRUIT!
Horatia Sheridan is the sister of Charles & Audrey & her brother's League has always been part of her family for as long as she can remember. She & her siblings were orphaned at an earlier age, but she was in the carriage with her parents when the accident that killed them happened & it was Lucien who pulled her out of the overturned carriage & away from the carnage of that devastated moment. This unique League has always made her fell safe, protected & treasured her & treated her as their sister, but she wants Lucien to see her as his desirable woman! Ever since that she accidental dumped that bucket of cold water over the undeserving woman that Lucien proposed to, he has been cold & distance from her & it is slowly destroying her heart & soul.
With the heat turned up to destroy their League, Lucien has been using the excuse to stalk Horatia more & after the runaway carriage on her shopping trip, Lucien is in 24/7 HADES with staying overnight at Horatia's, but protect he would. Horatia can't take Lucien indifference much long, but soon her world brightens with his stolen UNDIES SCORCHING kisses, if only he wouldn't pull away. She decides to get some get her man with a masquerade mask, a bribe to Lucien's footman & a payoff to the Midnight Garden's Madame, but soon the tables are turned as Lucien knows its her when she walks thru the door & he is so going to enjoy scaring her straight! Horatia can't believe all her sexually dreams are coming true as he slowly kisses & caresses her into heaven, but Lucien whips out his silk red bindings, ties her to the bed & makes her girlie parts SCREAM with their first taste of satisfaction, but instead of scaring her, he only draws her & himself in a tangle web of seduction!
Only later that night in the garden, they over hear the threaten voices talking about burying all the League members & they tiny bubble is burst, but soon the League awakens The Society of Rebellious Ladies (Emily, Horatia & Audrey), plan for Cedric & his sisters to Lucien's Kent estate for the holidays & he is not only going to be forced with her everywhere, but is going into the pit of his grandbabies craving mom & his wacky family! With Lady Rochester on the HUNT for some grandbabies, a house party full of meddling family members, Lucien popping wood left & right, a hilarious snowball fortress fight (the females kick a$$), delicious kisses that ignite a burning fire between her legs, 3 brothers following mommy's directive to induce Lucien's jealously, Hugo's many spies causing a ruckus, those naughty silk red bindings, a spoken secret, fist fights & a stupid male induced duel push Lucien to finally devour that tasty FORBIDDEN FRUIT! Can Horatia not only get her Lucien, but get to keep him? Will Lucien allow himself to trust his love for Horatia? If they finally embrace their love, will Cedric over look The League Rule #2? Can the League stop Hugo Waverly before it's to late? When will Lady Rochester get her some grandbabies? Who is the next Rogue to fall?
This is the 2nd book of The League of Rogues series & holy HADES this series just get better with each book. Now I want to chat about this LOLA HAPPY DANCE WORTHY book cover, that beotch slapped my eyeballs & made me hungrier this book, but it also inspired my tagline, FORBIDDEN FRUIT SYNDROME, so I have to say, KUDOS to Ms. Smith for the inspiration! Horatia is a combination of a bluestock & wallflower, but she has an incredible inner strength that only Lucien seems to be able to see. Now she is also a GOOD GIRL & all GOOD GIRLS need to be BAD, but I loved how she not only unleashed her inner HO, but COMMANDED & DEMANDED her to only make Lucien her sexual prisoner, but her panting SLAVE! Ms. Smith made Horatia a strong heroine, but gave her a soft vulnerability that ensnared her man. Lucien was a hero who growup in a loving home, but he had a hard time with trust & showing love to all women. He always kept woman at a safe distance & those red silky bindings helped him keep that distance. Ms. Smith made Lucien a hero who held himself back from everyone, but not from his family or the League, until Horatia cracked thru his hardened amour. Ms. Smith made The League of Rogues into the 3rd character of this romance & it couldn't be half as good as a book without them all because who could love this pack of MALE NAUGHTINESS! The Society of Rebellious Ladies was formed & was the perfect match to the League & I can't wait to watch its membership grow & overtake the Rogues! Now all romances need sparks & in my humble opinion many SCREAMING moments & Ms. Smith first built up sexual tension that only a chainsaw could cut through, but when FORBIDDEN FRUIT is gobbled up, y'all will whip out the FIRE EXTINGUISHERS for all the tantalizing shivers & quivers & "No AA BATTERIES REQUIRED" moments of utterly decadence scenes! I loved all the Fairy Godthingies moments with an unusual cast including the furry kitty, meddling mama bear, super smart Audrey, clever Charles & even 3 clueless brothers! Also many other League members are meeting women who might be their match & I will be watching for in the other League books, like Anne Chessley & Lady Melbourne. Ms. Smith had a evil & formidable villain in Hugo Waverly & his endless supply of willing & unwilling folks who spy for him causing intrigue & made me wait for the next baddie to pop up & cause a fuss. Ms. Smith is one of my favorite authors & when y'all read this book she will collect more new fans! She has yet to disappoint me with her romances & she filled this 1 with a strong heroine who RELEASED HER SEXUAL KRAKEN, a hero that's a alpha BAD BOY needing the pothole ridden path to find love whether he was ready or not, has many mini stories inside her main story, a pack of baddies, many unexpected Fairy Godthingie moment with PIXIE DUST causing a fuss, a holiday house party, some yummy bondage, many ROFL & HYPERVENTILATING moments of hilariousness galore & made my vajayjay bust out with holiday happiness! So for her read that made me smile, belly laugh which caused my furry blankie's to draw blood, scream at male stupidity, rejoice for the birth of The Society of Rebellious Ladies, inspire my new tagline, made me disconnect my bedroom smoke detector for the endless Kindle Fire sparks (get it Fire) & yes Mizz Toula tear up, Ms. Smith gets my top score of 5 fingers up & 10 toes once again & I can't wait to see which League of Rogues that falls next!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
November 19, 2014
VERY GOOD HISTORICAL ROMANCE!!
Book 2 in The League of Rogues series, "His Wicked Seduction" was so romantic. This is the story of Lucien Russell, Marquess Of Rochester and Lady Horatia Sheridan, sister to one of the Leagues Rogues. Viscount Cedric Sheridan. Let me just briefly say I cannot wait for Cedric to fall in love and his story. I hope he is next in line to fall in love and I hope he recovers fully from the incident he incurred !!
Lucien and Horatia are just perfect for one another. You can tell all through the story how much they love each other and want to be together. Rule 2 in the League of Rogues rule book says never seduce a members sister. Lucien tries to stay away form Horatia but there attraction and Horatia determination to seduce him was too strong. I liked that the author was able to keep them together through out the entire story. That keep the romance going.
I loved all the characters in the series. The secondary characters are very well written and you grow to love them. The whole story is Well Written. I felt like I was in the room with the characters. So why 4 stars instead of 5 I had a problems with the pet cat scene Muff and I wanted some revenge on Hugo Waverly and his cohorts. I don't like it when villains get away scot free. I am sure we will eventually read of his demise and I hope it is slow and cruel. He is just mean. Hugo needs to be hanged, drawn and quartered in a public execution!! . I guess we will also have to wait for the next book to find out more about Tom and his infant sister. This scenario was left a bit hanging. On a Whole "His Wicked Seduction" was a very good romantic and sensual story. I highly recommend this series. Start with bk.1 Wicked Designs
Book 2 in The League of Rogues series, "His Wicked Seduction" was so romantic. This is the story of Lucien Russell, Marquess Of Rochester and Lady Horatia Sheridan, sister to one of the Leagues Rogues. Viscount Cedric Sheridan. Let me just briefly say I cannot wait for Cedric to fall in love and his story. I hope he is next in line to fall in love and I hope he recovers fully from the incident he incurred !!
Lucien and Horatia are just perfect for one another. You can tell all through the story how much they love each other and want to be together. Rule 2 in the League of Rogues rule book says never seduce a members sister. Lucien tries to stay away form Horatia but there attraction and Horatia determination to seduce him was too strong. I liked that the author was able to keep them together through out the entire story. That keep the romance going.
I loved all the characters in the series. The secondary characters are very well written and you grow to love them. The whole story is Well Written. I felt like I was in the room with the characters. So why 4 stars instead of 5 I had a problems with the pet cat scene Muff and I wanted some revenge on Hugo Waverly and his cohorts. I don't like it when villains get away scot free. I am sure we will eventually read of his demise and I hope it is slow and cruel. He is just mean. Hugo needs to be hanged, drawn and quartered in a public execution!! . I guess we will also have to wait for the next book to find out more about Tom and his infant sister. This scenario was left a bit hanging. On a Whole "His Wicked Seduction" was a very good romantic and sensual story. I highly recommend this series. Start with bk.1 Wicked Designs
April 14, 2023
I am reading this series by Lauren Smith for Mad About Series HRBC Challenge for 2023.
2nd book. h Horatia Sheridan 21 and H Lucien , Marquess of Rochester.
Dilemma Lucien has lustful feelings towards Horatia and must keep away from her as there are rules to stay away from sisters of League of Rogue members. Horatia has loved him since she was 14 after he rescued and comforted her after her parents died in a carriage accident.
Hugo Waverley is planning on taking out each league member slowly and painfully. They thwarted him at Cambridge and later in the Foreign office when he was trying to drown Charles Earl of Lonsdale. In this story Hugo had secret agents go undercover in the employ as servants of the League members. Attempts on Lucien trying to run him down with a runaway carriage, Lucien and Horatia overheard some men at the Midnight Garden in Covent garden that they wanted to take out Sheridan, Ash and Godric went to checkout the threat the next morning and Ash was shot with a pistol in the arm, Lucien and Cedric took Horatia and Audrey to his home in Kent where the family was gathering for Christmas, muff one of Audrey's cats were drowned in left in the tub for Charles to find, Lucien's horse bucked him off and he had a concussion, Gordon the groomsman kidnapped Horatia and tied up Cedric when he came after her to help her and started a fire. Lucien went into rescue both brother and sister. A heavy beam fell on Cedric and Horatia and Lucien lifted the log and got Cedric out but after the doctor had seen him he shared the news with Horatia and Audrey that Cedric was blind.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2nd book. h Horatia Sheridan 21 and H Lucien , Marquess of Rochester.
Dilemma Lucien has lustful feelings towards Horatia and must keep away from her as there are rules to stay away from sisters of League of Rogue members. Horatia has loved him since she was 14 after he rescued and comforted her after her parents died in a carriage accident.
Hugo Waverley is planning on taking out each league member slowly and painfully. They thwarted him at Cambridge and later in the Foreign office when he was trying to drown Charles Earl of Lonsdale. In this story Hugo had secret agents go undercover in the employ as servants of the League members. Attempts on Lucien trying to run him down with a runaway carriage, Lucien and Horatia overheard some men at the Midnight Garden in Covent garden that they wanted to take out Sheridan, Ash and Godric went to checkout the threat the next morning and Ash was shot with a pistol in the arm, Lucien and Cedric took Horatia and Audrey to his home in Kent where the family was gathering for Christmas, muff one of Audrey's cats were drowned in left in the tub for Charles to find, Lucien's horse bucked him off and he had a concussion, Gordon the groomsman kidnapped Horatia and tied up Cedric when he came after her to help her and started a fire. Lucien went into rescue both brother and sister. A heavy beam fell on Cedric and Horatia and Lucien lifted the log and got Cedric out but after the doctor had seen him he shared the news with Horatia and Audrey that Cedric was blind.
Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 24, 2017
4.0 stars!
League Rule Number 2:
One must never seduce another member’s sister. Should this rule be broken, the member whose sister was seduced has the right to demand satisfaction.
I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into book #2 of the League of Rogues series with Lucien's story in “His Wicked Seduction".
Lucien Russell, Marquess of Rochester is a member of the famously notorious band of friends called “The League of Rogues.”
I liked Lucien from his very introduction in book #1. This red-headed rogue seemed to emanate this bad boy vibe more than the others and although I never think of redheads as sexy it made me want to know more about him. And he doesn't disappoint!
His story revolves around his friendship with Horatia Sherridan, the sister of Cedric Sherridan, one of his closest and dearest friends and also a member of the League.
In keeping with League rules, sisters are off limits! No ifs, ands or buts! League members do not pursue least of all seduce another member's sister.
Lucien is all about keeping to this rule staving off his growing attraction towards Horatia who has been in love with Lucien since the age of 14. But Horatia is all grown up now, stunningly beautiful and stirs his passions which for Lucien veer to having control over his lovers in bed. He is known for the use of his red silk strings to bind his lovers to his bed. He loves control and has never submitted himself to his lovers. He sees the experience as a test of trust and a freedom for his lovers to taste and explore their darkest inhibitions.
I'm usually never into this sort of story but Lauren Smith makes it sensual and erotic and writes Lucien not as a dominating lover in a bdsm sort of way but makes Lucien's lovers the focus of his ministrations. He could be taken as a selfish arse but he isn't. He seeks his lover’s pleasure first before his own. I was sold!
She was Cedric’s sister, and the League had rules.
Lucien couldn’t trust himself with her. He wanted to make love to her by candlelight, to better see the shadows playing across the curves of her body. He enjoyed restraining a woman and rousing her to peaks of pleasure. Never to hurt, no. But he loved to have power over a woman, and more importantly, her trust. He could learn every sensitive place and dark desire she harbored so he might fulfill it. He never once left a woman unsatisfied after a night tied to his bed, and he refused to enjoy himself until his lover had first been fully sated.
So in order not to act on his growing feelings for Horatia and to keep his friendship with Cedric intact, Lucien resorts to the cold shoulder treatment of his best friend's sister. He uses an incident where Horatia's actions at 14 caused him to lose the betrothal of the woman he sought to marry as an excuse of his coldness all these years. But this excuse starts to grow thin as Horatia expresses her still burning affections and desire to be with him even after six years of this nonsense.
Horatia was a mixed bag as a female MC at first. She's been in love with Lucien since she was 14 and has this special connection to Lucien, the one who rescued her from a carriage accident that took her parent's lives. I wanted her to go tit for tat with Lucien and it aggravated me when she melted like butter on a hot stove the second Lucien breathed on her! I wanted her to kick him in the balls which now that I remember, she does! But her love and passion for Lucien was a testament that true love doesn't wither away by tests of time or by rules. She wasn't afraid to share her deepest fears and her hopes and I admired her honesty not only with Lucien but with herself.
“I feel like a mouse being toyed with by a cat. You’re worse than Muff. You bat at me with your paws, claw me, excite and thrill me with your wild antics, but it is all a game to you. You seduce me because you’re bored. You derive pleasure from giving me hope of returned affections, then lay ruin to my dreams. I’m begging you, Lucien. Either kill me now or leave me alone forever, but for God’s sake stop this infernal dance. I am in agony every minute of every hour of every day, fearing what you’ll do to my heart next. Put me out of my misery and be done with it.”
Horatia grew into a woman whose confidence in what she wanted spurred her on to embrace the challenges in her relationship with Lucien and I ended up admiring her tenacity and perseverance.
“You are the keeper of my heart. Take this gift and wear it when you think of me. These jewels are as close as I can get to stealing the stars and adorning you with them.” ~ Lucien
The sexy scenes and there are several are steamy HOT!!! Made me believe that there is still hope for redheads in the world!
I enjoyed this book tremendously! It had so many different layers that kept me wanting more! Aside from the romance between Lucien and Horatia, Smith gives a sampling of what future stories will entail with the other rogue members and the mysterious on-going thread as to what really happened between the League and their number one nemesis, Hugo Waverly!
The ending only made me scream!!!
I want answers!!!
If you love angstsy romances, I shouldn't be into your sister but I am, elements of bondage and a mystery thread…I totally RECOMMEND this book!
Craving book 3!!! Can't wait!!!
May 24, 2023
2.5
We get a few chapters where the POV is not the hero nor heroine.
Lots of characters (The League, their siblings, servants, the villain and his henchmen )
Light bondage
Warning: death of a pet (murdered)
We get a few chapters where the POV is not the hero nor heroine.
Lots of characters (The League, their siblings, servants, the villain and his henchmen )
Light bondage
Warning: death of a pet (murdered)
July 9, 2017
'Wicked Seduction' by Lauren Smith is book Two in "The League of Rogues" series. This is the story of Horatia Sheridan and Lucien, Marquess of Rochester. I have read the previous book and feel you can make this a standalone book if you choose to do so.
Horatia has been in love with Lucien from the start...he saved her from a carriage accident. Lucien is also her brother's best friend.
Lucien is best friends with Cedric, Viscount Sheridan since they were young boys. They have a mutual enemy named Hugo Waverly who also has singled out a few other of their friends. Waverly is a awful person who is out for revenge against Lucien and his friends. So much so that they came together to start a group called, "The League of Rougues". Lucien too has feelings for Horatia but their brotherly code and his true friendship with Cedric keeps him from acting on them. In fact, Lucien has been positively mean spirited toward's Horatia to keep her and her feelings at arms length. But that all comes to a stop with Weaverly has set his sights on possibly hurting Horatia to get revenge. Now Lucien must stay in close quarters with Horatia which will make keeping his feelings from her impossible.
I love this series! Ms. Smith is one of my favorite Authors....I know I am getting a great story when I see her name!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
Cedric , Viscount Sheridan THe League of Rougues
Horatia has been in love with Lucien from the start...he saved her from a carriage accident. Lucien is also her brother's best friend.
Lucien is best friends with Cedric, Viscount Sheridan since they were young boys. They have a mutual enemy named Hugo Waverly who also has singled out a few other of their friends. Waverly is a awful person who is out for revenge against Lucien and his friends. So much so that they came together to start a group called, "The League of Rougues". Lucien too has feelings for Horatia but their brotherly code and his true friendship with Cedric keeps him from acting on them. In fact, Lucien has been positively mean spirited toward's Horatia to keep her and her feelings at arms length. But that all comes to a stop with Weaverly has set his sights on possibly hurting Horatia to get revenge. Now Lucien must stay in close quarters with Horatia which will make keeping his feelings from her impossible.
I love this series! Ms. Smith is one of my favorite Authors....I know I am getting a great story when I see her name!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
Cedric , Viscount Sheridan THe League of Rougues
September 24, 2014
His Wicked Seduction (League of Rogues) by Lauren Smith
Overview by Amazon:
Can the League’s most wicked rakehell be tamed? Or has this Rogue fallen too far?
The League of Rogues, Book 2
Horatia Sheridan has been hopelessly in love with Lucien, her brother’s best friend, ever since he rescued her from the broken remains of her parents’ wrecked carriage. His reputation as London’s most notorious rakehell doesn’t frighten her, for under his veneer of cool authority she has glimpsed a man whose wicked desires inspire her own.
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, has deliberately nurtured a reputation for debauchery that makes every matchmaking mother of the ton quake with fear. His one secret: he is torn between soul-ripping lust for Horatia, and the loyalty he owes her brother.
That loyalty is put to the test when an old enemy of the League threatens Horatia’s life. With Christmas drawing near, he sweeps her away to his country estate, where he can’t resist granting her one wish—to share his bed and his heart.
But sinister forces are lurking, awaiting the perfect moment to exact their revenge by destroying not only whatever happiness Lucien might find in Horatia’s arms, but the lives of those they love.
I LOVED this book. I LOVED the characters. I LOVED the intrigue and mystery. I loved it so much that I have already purchased the first book in the series and can’t wait to start reading it.
This book has everything in it that you want. Unrequited love, passionate sex scenes and a villain out to destroy a close group of friends. I haven’t yet read the first book, but it was no problem picking up on the plot and what the current state of affairs are.
Horatia and Lucien have danced around each other for years. He is her older brother’s friend and a rake of the first order. He has been coolly disdainful of her since an immature incident years ago. She harbours a deep love for Lucien and has remained unmarried and unwilling to change that status as no one has ever tempted her as he does.
One night she pulls the ultimate prank and winds up at a pleasure garden, served up to Lucien as his new plaything and bedmate for the evening. Lucien knows exactly who it is right away. We know that he is not an unaffected as he pretends. He is cold and distant to her because he is scared to death of the feelings Horatia provokes in him. When she lands in his lap as a tasty morsel, he can’t resist. Although he leaves her technically a virgin, he gives in to the losing battle of ignoring her and sets them both aflame with passion.
The League of Rogues is being plagued by a former school mate. He is out for revenge and nothing is off limits. In the book, we see this evil villain do despicable deeds and go after family members. He bribes staffs, pokes and prods his way into the lives and households of the League members. His threats prompt the men to take action and they split up. Horatia and Lucien, along with their families end up in Kent for the Christmas season to take shelter from this nefarious foe. However, it also means that Lucien can’t run away from Horatia and must face what is between them. It helps that his mother is firmly on her side and plots her own intervention, which was hilarious.
While Lucien and Horatia figure out what is between them and what they want, they also must contend with her brother Cedric. He is opposed to any match between the two and knowing this makes it harder for the two to come together.
While in Kent, it seems like a fairy tale. They waltz; they kiss in libraries and steal away to a Gardener’s cottage for romantic interludes. Lucien is changing. He is no longer the libertine who seeks his pleasure in devious ways. He still maintains some of his kink, like his red ribbons, but he is learning what a real relationship is and that he has been wasting his time not claiming Horatia. I adored the interplay between the two. Such high emotions and crashing lows as they struggle to come together. It was so well written that I had a pang in my chest when Lucien would turn cold and away from the love Horatia was offering him.
The cast of characters in the book make it so appealing. The League members were featured and some background provided that I am sure will be elaborated on in future novels. We see how happy Goderic and Emily are (from the previous book) and that married life suits them just fine. I adored Lucien’s family and his brothers were great comedic relief. Horatia’s brother and sister provided a sounding board for her emotions and her past. They also were great characters in the story and I became invested in their lives and happiness too.
The sex scenes are steamy hot! Lucien likes control in the bedroom. He has honed his skill as a lover and puts it to full use seducing Horatia. However, just as he is adapting to new emotional needs, he is learning to become a different type of lover. He cherishes Horatia and their lovemaking was amazing. These scenes were so well written. When I first read that he likes red ribbons to tie up his lovers to feed his need of dominance, I thought it had shades of fifty in it, but it was not designed that way. He is just a dominant man who as head of his family, a Lord of the realm and fierce lover and needs to be in control.
This book blew me away. It was too short! I wanted more! I can’t wait until the next story comes out which I believe will be about Cedric, Horatia’s brother. He has suffered a terrible injury and there seems to be a particular lady that can help him regain his life. Can’t wait to read more by this author. This was a grand slam in my opinion.
Reviewed by www.kiltsandswords.com Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
Overview by Amazon:
Can the League’s most wicked rakehell be tamed? Or has this Rogue fallen too far?
The League of Rogues, Book 2
Horatia Sheridan has been hopelessly in love with Lucien, her brother’s best friend, ever since he rescued her from the broken remains of her parents’ wrecked carriage. His reputation as London’s most notorious rakehell doesn’t frighten her, for under his veneer of cool authority she has glimpsed a man whose wicked desires inspire her own.
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, has deliberately nurtured a reputation for debauchery that makes every matchmaking mother of the ton quake with fear. His one secret: he is torn between soul-ripping lust for Horatia, and the loyalty he owes her brother.
That loyalty is put to the test when an old enemy of the League threatens Horatia’s life. With Christmas drawing near, he sweeps her away to his country estate, where he can’t resist granting her one wish—to share his bed and his heart.
But sinister forces are lurking, awaiting the perfect moment to exact their revenge by destroying not only whatever happiness Lucien might find in Horatia’s arms, but the lives of those they love.
I LOVED this book. I LOVED the characters. I LOVED the intrigue and mystery. I loved it so much that I have already purchased the first book in the series and can’t wait to start reading it.
This book has everything in it that you want. Unrequited love, passionate sex scenes and a villain out to destroy a close group of friends. I haven’t yet read the first book, but it was no problem picking up on the plot and what the current state of affairs are.
Horatia and Lucien have danced around each other for years. He is her older brother’s friend and a rake of the first order. He has been coolly disdainful of her since an immature incident years ago. She harbours a deep love for Lucien and has remained unmarried and unwilling to change that status as no one has ever tempted her as he does.
One night she pulls the ultimate prank and winds up at a pleasure garden, served up to Lucien as his new plaything and bedmate for the evening. Lucien knows exactly who it is right away. We know that he is not an unaffected as he pretends. He is cold and distant to her because he is scared to death of the feelings Horatia provokes in him. When she lands in his lap as a tasty morsel, he can’t resist. Although he leaves her technically a virgin, he gives in to the losing battle of ignoring her and sets them both aflame with passion.
The League of Rogues is being plagued by a former school mate. He is out for revenge and nothing is off limits. In the book, we see this evil villain do despicable deeds and go after family members. He bribes staffs, pokes and prods his way into the lives and households of the League members. His threats prompt the men to take action and they split up. Horatia and Lucien, along with their families end up in Kent for the Christmas season to take shelter from this nefarious foe. However, it also means that Lucien can’t run away from Horatia and must face what is between them. It helps that his mother is firmly on her side and plots her own intervention, which was hilarious.
While Lucien and Horatia figure out what is between them and what they want, they also must contend with her brother Cedric. He is opposed to any match between the two and knowing this makes it harder for the two to come together.
While in Kent, it seems like a fairy tale. They waltz; they kiss in libraries and steal away to a Gardener’s cottage for romantic interludes. Lucien is changing. He is no longer the libertine who seeks his pleasure in devious ways. He still maintains some of his kink, like his red ribbons, but he is learning what a real relationship is and that he has been wasting his time not claiming Horatia. I adored the interplay between the two. Such high emotions and crashing lows as they struggle to come together. It was so well written that I had a pang in my chest when Lucien would turn cold and away from the love Horatia was offering him.
The cast of characters in the book make it so appealing. The League members were featured and some background provided that I am sure will be elaborated on in future novels. We see how happy Goderic and Emily are (from the previous book) and that married life suits them just fine. I adored Lucien’s family and his brothers were great comedic relief. Horatia’s brother and sister provided a sounding board for her emotions and her past. They also were great characters in the story and I became invested in their lives and happiness too.
The sex scenes are steamy hot! Lucien likes control in the bedroom. He has honed his skill as a lover and puts it to full use seducing Horatia. However, just as he is adapting to new emotional needs, he is learning to become a different type of lover. He cherishes Horatia and their lovemaking was amazing. These scenes were so well written. When I first read that he likes red ribbons to tie up his lovers to feed his need of dominance, I thought it had shades of fifty in it, but it was not designed that way. He is just a dominant man who as head of his family, a Lord of the realm and fierce lover and needs to be in control.
This book blew me away. It was too short! I wanted more! I can’t wait until the next story comes out which I believe will be about Cedric, Horatia’s brother. He has suffered a terrible injury and there seems to be a particular lady that can help him regain his life. Can’t wait to read more by this author. This was a grand slam in my opinion.
Reviewed by www.kiltsandswords.com Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
November 17, 2014
Another wonderful sensual Historical Romance by Lauren Smith. This is the second book in The League of Rogues series and is even better than the first one, and that is saying alot. Lauren writes exciting plots and amazing characters that enthrall you from beginning to end. What I love most about her books are that there are so much more than just the two main protagonists, you get to know all the Rogues and they are all compelling, handsome, alpha males that will have their own books. Her heroines are strong, fiesty females who are intelligent and know how to get their man! Be prepared to read this book in one sitting, you cannot put it down once you start. If you have never read a Lauren Smith Historical Romance you are missing one of the best in the business. I guarantee that you will love it as much as I did!!!
Received ARC for honest review.
Received ARC for honest review.
February 20, 2016
DNF 50%. The writing was okay. Humour was a bit forced and slapstick rather than subtle witticism, which I prefer. Heroine doing all the chasing and the hero was more than happy to be the recipient despite his token resistance out of respect for her brother, his good friend. He certainly wasted no time, tying her up after the first few kisses. In fact there was no signs of gentle consideration and affection for her, only lustful and salacious fantasies that he soon acted out. Heroine was happy to get his leavings, lapping up his cold and hot behaviour in equal measures. The undignified and irresponsible behaviour seems to run in the family, with her younger highly sexualised sister, even less inhibited in her behaviour. I guess, I did not realise this is an erotic historical romance as opposed to the usual HR I read, where there actually is romance.
March 30, 2022
4.5⭐
Horatia y Lucien 💗 como me enamoran estos picaros.
Su historia es muy bonita porque Horatia se arriesga por el amor que siente por Lucien, de una forma que en esa época podría ser considero muy escandaloso. Y como Lucien después de aceptar sus sentimientos por Horatia lucha por ellos.
Horatia y Lucien 💗 como me enamoran estos picaros.
Su historia es muy bonita porque Horatia se arriesga por el amor que siente por Lucien, de una forma que en esa época podría ser considero muy escandaloso. Y como Lucien después de aceptar sus sentimientos por Horatia lucha por ellos.
July 9, 2017
'Wicked Seduction' by Lauren Smith 'Wicked Seduction' by Lauren Smith is book Two in "The League of Rogues" series. This is the story of Horatia Sheridan and Lucien, Marquess of Rochester. I have read the previous book and feel you can make this a standalone book if you choose to do so. Horatia has been in love with Lucien from the start...he saved her from a carriage accident. Lucien is also her brother's best friend. Lucien is best friends with Cedric, Viscount Sheridan since they were young boys. They have a mutual enemy named Hugo Waverly who also has singled out a few other of their friends. Waverly is a awful person who is out for revenge against Lucien and his friends. So much so that they came together to start a group called, "The League of Rougues". Lucien too has feelings for Horatia but their brotherly code and his true friendship with Cedric keeps him from acting on them. In fact, Lucien has been positively mean spirited toward's Horatia to keep her and her feelings at arms length. But that all comes to a stop with Weaverly has set his sights on possibly hurting Horatia to get revenge. Now Lucien must stay in close quarters with Horatia which will make keeping his feelings from her impossible. I love this series! Ms. Smith is one of my favorite Authors....I know I am getting a great story when I see her name!https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/ http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
Cedric , Viscount Sheridan THe League of Rougues
Cedric , Viscount Sheridan THe League of Rougues
Read
September 29, 2014WARNING: SPOILER HEAVY
His Wicked Seduction
The League of Rogues, book 02
Lauren Smith
Godric, Duke of Essex, Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, Charles, Earl of Lonsdale, Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, and Ashton, Baron Lennox have unwittingly been dubbed by the society pages as the League of Rogues, a merry band of debauched nobles hellbent on seducing their way through the beau mond and occasional demimonde. As word of the pen name reaches their little group, the 5 rakehells are all too happy to oblige their new but notorious sobriquet. After all, a gentleman honors his titles.
Having met the League in authoress Lauren Smith’s first book about our rogues, Wicked Designs -- Godric’s book and possible salvation -- Smith begins Lucien’s story in more familiar territory. Having been chased back to the buxom of town (and the ton) thanks to Emily Parr, new Duchess of Essex and Godric’s wife, Lucien finds himself in constant company of Miss Horatia Sheridan, younger sister of Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, and sole reason for his current discomfort.
Having helped rescue the chit from a carriage accident that took both her parents many years ago, Lucien can’t help but hold a soft spot for the then-young lady. Over the years, he has watched her bloom, albeit from a close but chilly distance, from a young girl to a beautiful lady. And while our hero recognizes that his tendre for the young miss has bloomed into an aching love for the wisened woman, he fears for his black past as well as the repercussions of romancing his bestfriend’s sister.
Horatia, deeply grateful for the comfort the red-headed Marquess extended to her during such a painful time of her life, cannot help but cling on to the heroic memory of her older brother’s friend, no matter how cold he is to her at present. Still, after so many years of perceived unrequited yearning, Horatia is finally ready to give Lucien a woman’s love, and no longer a child’s infatuation.
Soon, a threat to their not-quite-peaceful coexistence emerges in the form of a near accident and death threat, a story arc carried over from Godric’s book. Worried that their childhood nemesis, Hugo Waverly, is upping his game, so to speak, the League decides to have Cedric, along with his sisters Horatia and Audrey, hightail to Lucien’s estate in Kent.
Once properly ensconced in the country, Horatia and Lucien begin to wonder if they can put away their demons and maybe discover that a future with each other is bright, even amidst the bleakness of their present.
Smith blows my mind once again with her artful story-telling and edge-of-your-seat plots! It is no secret that I favor series’ over standalones and with the LoR, I’m proved, once again, why it is so. While I did highly enjoy Godric and Emily’s story, there were precious few moments outside of the two. Here, however, having already established most of the men in the league, we were treated to many interesting anecdotes and supporting stories sans Lucien and Horatia.
A particular favorite series trope of mine is character development and buildup, as well as a glimpse of the previous leads. In HWS, we re-visit Emily and Godric and sneak a peek at how married life is faring for them. More than that, however, I like to keep guessing at whose story will develop next. In this, Smith humors me plenty. I was kept constantly guessing as to who ends up with whom. Her way with characters and words are kept so human that each character has a specific and definite relationship. Chemistry is oozing from their pores, and you are left with many a ship to root for.
For example, while Cedric’s youngest sibling, Audrey, has expressed interest in Jonathan, Godric’s younger half-brother, I love the playfulness and historically gender-bending friendship she shares with Linus, the youngest Russell brother. While inter-sex friendships were encouraged for children, they defied the odds and kept a close relationship even as a in-the-marriage-mart Miss and Cambridge graduate. And speaking of young Linus, we also peep a light flirtation between he and a daughter of a close family friend, Lucinda. I suspect the two can cause many a jealousy between their respective love stories.
Gregory, Lucinda’s brother, has also shown a possible partner for the youngest Russell sister, Lysandra, as evidenced by the sparks that I detected during a very fun snow fort battle. Lysandra, a character I already love due to our similarities in name – and nature! She’s a bluestocking of the tallest order! – is also a contender for Charles, Earl of Lonsdale and a member of the league. Jane, mother of the Russells and current Lady Rochester, is a matchmaking mama and is promoting a match between the two. Ironically, Charles is also whom Audrey tries to seduce in the beginning of HWS so I am curious as to see what adventure Smith has in store for him. Back in London, Ashton, Baron Lennox, may have met his match with businesswoman Lady Melbourne – a seductress of the tallest order. Lastly, Cedric is paired with Miss Anne Chessley in the epilogue leading me to believe that his story is next in the saga.
It is no easy feat to keep the sheer number of characters and possible matches in a single novel but Smith manages this beautifully. And even with all the excitement found in the book – duels, accidents, murder plots, fires, hidden identities – she is able to infuse a warmth and familiar joviality and gaiety in the book. A competitive snow battle reminiscent of the Pall Mall game in Julia Quinn’s The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgerton book 2) comes to mind, as well as Lady Rochester promoting a bit of devilry and sibling rivalry to push her eldest into action. Another scene is the founding of The Society of Rebellious Ladies – a bit of teasing and mocking by Emily, Horatia, and Audrey due to the high-handedness of the men of their lives.
We also can’t forget the story between our leads, Lucien and Horatia. Though both appear to accept their deeper feelings for each other, a rarity amongst the usual denial rakes favor in hisrom novels, it is more heartwarming to know that Cedric was the reason the two were so apprehensive to pursue their burgeoning relationship. It is usual with ladies to forge friendships that will test fire, especially during the Regency when ladies were not even considered their own persons, but a rarity with the men. I applaud Smith for sticking to her guns and showing us a story where friendship is the unifying factor.
If there is one thing left to say about Smith’s prowess in writing, it is that she weaves her wand and poof – you are entranced. Lucien and Horatia saw to that. Besides, who doesn’t love a man who buys his woman a dress, propriety be damned?
His Wicked Seduction
The League of Rogues, book 02
Lauren Smith
Godric, Duke of Essex, Lucien, Marquess of Rochester, Charles, Earl of Lonsdale, Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, and Ashton, Baron Lennox have unwittingly been dubbed by the society pages as the League of Rogues, a merry band of debauched nobles hellbent on seducing their way through the beau mond and occasional demimonde. As word of the pen name reaches their little group, the 5 rakehells are all too happy to oblige their new but notorious sobriquet. After all, a gentleman honors his titles.
Having met the League in authoress Lauren Smith’s first book about our rogues, Wicked Designs -- Godric’s book and possible salvation -- Smith begins Lucien’s story in more familiar territory. Having been chased back to the buxom of town (and the ton) thanks to Emily Parr, new Duchess of Essex and Godric’s wife, Lucien finds himself in constant company of Miss Horatia Sheridan, younger sister of Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, and sole reason for his current discomfort.
Having helped rescue the chit from a carriage accident that took both her parents many years ago, Lucien can’t help but hold a soft spot for the then-young lady. Over the years, he has watched her bloom, albeit from a close but chilly distance, from a young girl to a beautiful lady. And while our hero recognizes that his tendre for the young miss has bloomed into an aching love for the wisened woman, he fears for his black past as well as the repercussions of romancing his bestfriend’s sister.
Horatia, deeply grateful for the comfort the red-headed Marquess extended to her during such a painful time of her life, cannot help but cling on to the heroic memory of her older brother’s friend, no matter how cold he is to her at present. Still, after so many years of perceived unrequited yearning, Horatia is finally ready to give Lucien a woman’s love, and no longer a child’s infatuation.
Soon, a threat to their not-quite-peaceful coexistence emerges in the form of a near accident and death threat, a story arc carried over from Godric’s book. Worried that their childhood nemesis, Hugo Waverly, is upping his game, so to speak, the League decides to have Cedric, along with his sisters Horatia and Audrey, hightail to Lucien’s estate in Kent.
Once properly ensconced in the country, Horatia and Lucien begin to wonder if they can put away their demons and maybe discover that a future with each other is bright, even amidst the bleakness of their present.
Smith blows my mind once again with her artful story-telling and edge-of-your-seat plots! It is no secret that I favor series’ over standalones and with the LoR, I’m proved, once again, why it is so. While I did highly enjoy Godric and Emily’s story, there were precious few moments outside of the two. Here, however, having already established most of the men in the league, we were treated to many interesting anecdotes and supporting stories sans Lucien and Horatia.
A particular favorite series trope of mine is character development and buildup, as well as a glimpse of the previous leads. In HWS, we re-visit Emily and Godric and sneak a peek at how married life is faring for them. More than that, however, I like to keep guessing at whose story will develop next. In this, Smith humors me plenty. I was kept constantly guessing as to who ends up with whom. Her way with characters and words are kept so human that each character has a specific and definite relationship. Chemistry is oozing from their pores, and you are left with many a ship to root for.
For example, while Cedric’s youngest sibling, Audrey, has expressed interest in Jonathan, Godric’s younger half-brother, I love the playfulness and historically gender-bending friendship she shares with Linus, the youngest Russell brother. While inter-sex friendships were encouraged for children, they defied the odds and kept a close relationship even as a in-the-marriage-mart Miss and Cambridge graduate. And speaking of young Linus, we also peep a light flirtation between he and a daughter of a close family friend, Lucinda. I suspect the two can cause many a jealousy between their respective love stories.
Gregory, Lucinda’s brother, has also shown a possible partner for the youngest Russell sister, Lysandra, as evidenced by the sparks that I detected during a very fun snow fort battle. Lysandra, a character I already love due to our similarities in name – and nature! She’s a bluestocking of the tallest order! – is also a contender for Charles, Earl of Lonsdale and a member of the league. Jane, mother of the Russells and current Lady Rochester, is a matchmaking mama and is promoting a match between the two. Ironically, Charles is also whom Audrey tries to seduce in the beginning of HWS so I am curious as to see what adventure Smith has in store for him. Back in London, Ashton, Baron Lennox, may have met his match with businesswoman Lady Melbourne – a seductress of the tallest order. Lastly, Cedric is paired with Miss Anne Chessley in the epilogue leading me to believe that his story is next in the saga.
It is no easy feat to keep the sheer number of characters and possible matches in a single novel but Smith manages this beautifully. And even with all the excitement found in the book – duels, accidents, murder plots, fires, hidden identities – she is able to infuse a warmth and familiar joviality and gaiety in the book. A competitive snow battle reminiscent of the Pall Mall game in Julia Quinn’s The Viscount Who Loved Me (Bridgerton book 2) comes to mind, as well as Lady Rochester promoting a bit of devilry and sibling rivalry to push her eldest into action. Another scene is the founding of The Society of Rebellious Ladies – a bit of teasing and mocking by Emily, Horatia, and Audrey due to the high-handedness of the men of their lives.
We also can’t forget the story between our leads, Lucien and Horatia. Though both appear to accept their deeper feelings for each other, a rarity amongst the usual denial rakes favor in hisrom novels, it is more heartwarming to know that Cedric was the reason the two were so apprehensive to pursue their burgeoning relationship. It is usual with ladies to forge friendships that will test fire, especially during the Regency when ladies were not even considered their own persons, but a rarity with the men. I applaud Smith for sticking to her guns and showing us a story where friendship is the unifying factor.
If there is one thing left to say about Smith’s prowess in writing, it is that she weaves her wand and poof – you are entranced. Lucien and Horatia saw to that. Besides, who doesn’t love a man who buys his woman a dress, propriety be damned?
February 16, 2015
A band of friends with roguish tendencies? A cold, calculating villain to bring them all down? Fiery heroine and feisty friends? Families and pets, oh my? All set in Regency England? I'm there!!!!
This was my first encounter with this author, but I can guarantee that it won't be my last. I had such a fun time with this book. Unrequited love, danger, elicit passion and humor all made it a wonderful, engaging read.
This was book two in the series. I tripped along just fine even though I didn't start with book one, but I do think I might have liked it even better in order since there is a large group of characters that are intertwined and all were introduced in the previous book including the villain and his schemes.
The story opens with Lucien Russell, Marquis of Rochester, distracted beyond sanity by his friend's younger sister. He worries about her knowing the threat from their adversary is real, but it is the attraction he doesn't want to feel that is his real agitation. Long ago, he crushed her young girl's heart when she told him that she loved him and since then he has hated her for a mistake she made then, but also made himself unworthy of such a sweet, honorable woman's love by pursuing his own passionate indulgences with any experienced woman he desired. Ever since his friend's recent marriage, he has thought hard on his rakish ways and envied the man his happiness.
Horatia Sheridan has loved Lucien since the time he rescued her from the coaching accident that took her parents, but she knows her love isn't returned. Lucian has been harsh and cold with her since that day she sabotaged his proposal to another woman when she was still a child. Now though, she is treated to him running hot with desire and cold with rejection. She plans a seduction scheme to rival one of her spirited, younger sister's and she gets in over her head, but still manages to open Lucien's eyes to the fact that she is a passionate woman to match him. Unfortunately, the danger that stalks her brother, Lucien and the rest of their friends, doesn't spare her or her family and they are forced on the run to Lucien's family estate right before Christmas. There, with the help of Lucien's family of roguish brothers, sister and mother, Horatia finds some allies to aid her, but the enemy is also secretly in their midst too and he plans to break down the rogues slowly and painfully before taking his final revenge.
This story is one that the reader really has to pay attention. There are quick changing scenes, many plot threads, and multiple narrators going on behind the main romance plot and main couple. I had a good time with it, but there were times that I felt things were switching scenes almost in a blur.
The romance plot was interesting for me because I found Lucian's condemnation of himself interesting. Sure, he got around quite a bit and earned his status as a player with rakish habits, but his thing about feeling unworthy made me feel bad for him. He liked to dominate and restrain women in the bedroom, but has the idea this is wrong and no decent woman would except this form of passion. I was glad when Horatia proved him wrong. Consensual play was the key and she showed him that she reveled in it and could match him for passion and need.
As to characters, Lucien was one that was iffy for me mainly because as he wrestled with issues of being attracted to his best friend's sister and knowing he wasn't worthy, he was pretty ornery to Horatia in the process. Horatia was hurt, but she really had hope. She was calm in the face of his stormy attempts to frighten her and shove her away.
All the other rogues get significant page time as they work on nosing out their enemy's plots and foiling them and even start their own story threads. There are so many delightful characters that I look forward to seeing them get their books. And the villain of the piece? I love that he is formidable and that he seems to have a strong reason for doing what he is doing. It will be interesting to see what comes of his storyline through the series.
In the end, this was quite the story with its passion, intrigue and humor. Fans of spicy historical romance and a series built around a group of exciting young rogues should give this a try.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first encounter with this author, but I can guarantee that it won't be my last. I had such a fun time with this book. Unrequited love, danger, elicit passion and humor all made it a wonderful, engaging read.
This was book two in the series. I tripped along just fine even though I didn't start with book one, but I do think I might have liked it even better in order since there is a large group of characters that are intertwined and all were introduced in the previous book including the villain and his schemes.
The story opens with Lucien Russell, Marquis of Rochester, distracted beyond sanity by his friend's younger sister. He worries about her knowing the threat from their adversary is real, but it is the attraction he doesn't want to feel that is his real agitation. Long ago, he crushed her young girl's heart when she told him that she loved him and since then he has hated her for a mistake she made then, but also made himself unworthy of such a sweet, honorable woman's love by pursuing his own passionate indulgences with any experienced woman he desired. Ever since his friend's recent marriage, he has thought hard on his rakish ways and envied the man his happiness.
Horatia Sheridan has loved Lucien since the time he rescued her from the coaching accident that took her parents, but she knows her love isn't returned. Lucian has been harsh and cold with her since that day she sabotaged his proposal to another woman when she was still a child. Now though, she is treated to him running hot with desire and cold with rejection. She plans a seduction scheme to rival one of her spirited, younger sister's and she gets in over her head, but still manages to open Lucien's eyes to the fact that she is a passionate woman to match him. Unfortunately, the danger that stalks her brother, Lucien and the rest of their friends, doesn't spare her or her family and they are forced on the run to Lucien's family estate right before Christmas. There, with the help of Lucien's family of roguish brothers, sister and mother, Horatia finds some allies to aid her, but the enemy is also secretly in their midst too and he plans to break down the rogues slowly and painfully before taking his final revenge.
This story is one that the reader really has to pay attention. There are quick changing scenes, many plot threads, and multiple narrators going on behind the main romance plot and main couple. I had a good time with it, but there were times that I felt things were switching scenes almost in a blur.
The romance plot was interesting for me because I found Lucian's condemnation of himself interesting. Sure, he got around quite a bit and earned his status as a player with rakish habits, but his thing about feeling unworthy made me feel bad for him. He liked to dominate and restrain women in the bedroom, but has the idea this is wrong and no decent woman would except this form of passion. I was glad when Horatia proved him wrong. Consensual play was the key and she showed him that she reveled in it and could match him for passion and need.
As to characters, Lucien was one that was iffy for me mainly because as he wrestled with issues of being attracted to his best friend's sister and knowing he wasn't worthy, he was pretty ornery to Horatia in the process. Horatia was hurt, but she really had hope. She was calm in the face of his stormy attempts to frighten her and shove her away.
All the other rogues get significant page time as they work on nosing out their enemy's plots and foiling them and even start their own story threads. There are so many delightful characters that I look forward to seeing them get their books. And the villain of the piece? I love that he is formidable and that he seems to have a strong reason for doing what he is doing. It will be interesting to see what comes of his storyline through the series.
In the end, this was quite the story with its passion, intrigue and humor. Fans of spicy historical romance and a series built around a group of exciting young rogues should give this a try.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2014
After reading Wicked Designs, the first novel in The League of Rogues series, I fell in love with Lauren Smith's writing and the irresistible men who belonged to the League. I couldn't wait to read Lucien's story and watch him fall for an innocent lady who just so happens to be one of his best friend's sisters…
Horatia has been in love with Lucien ever since he saved her life in the tragedy that took the lives of her parents. The only problem is that he's the best friend of her brother and she knew Lucien could never love a girl as innocent and inexperienced as herself. Little does she know, Lucien is drawn to Horatia in a way he's never been drawn to any lady before. So when someone threatens the lives of the men of the League and Horatia's life is in danger, Lucien doesn't hesitate to take Horatia away to his country estate where they can finally explore the intense chemistry brewing between them…
Right away, you know Lucien is trouble. He's not shy around women and has definitely earned his reputation as a rogue. So when he finds himself captivated by Horatia, despite the fact that she's completely innocent and unlike the women he normally attempts to bed, he knows he's in for it. The only problem? She's his best friend's sister, and the League has explicit rules forbidding any relations with one another's sisters. I love how overprotective Cedric is, to both Horatia and Audrey, especially because he just wants his family to be together and doesn't want to be alone. That doesn't stop Horatia from going after Lucien, though, and I loved how daring she was when normally she's so innocent and reserved. It was fun seeing her open up to her seductive side and exploring what passions Lucien had to offer.
The only problem I had with their relationship, though, was how forceful Lucien was in the beginning. His advanced tended to border on aggressive and I know that he always offered Horatia the chance to stop him, but I feel like when she did stop him, he kept on going after her until she finally relented and let him. I think a bit more tenderness on his part would have made their relationship better. Other than that, though, I really enjoyed the passion and steamy nights together. The mystery and danger behind who was trying to kill them definitely added some suspense and even more passion to Horatia and Lucien's romance.
Overall, Lauren Smith delivered yet another yummy, dangerous historical romance. The best thing about her books so far, though, is definitely how close the relationships of her characters are. They are all either close best friends or close siblings who will do anything to protect one other. This made the relationship have so much more depth and it was great being getting a glimpse into the lives of this tight-knit group of lovable characters. If you haven't already, I'd definitely recommend any historical romance fan to check out Lauren Smith's League of Rogues books.
Horatia has been in love with Lucien ever since he saved her life in the tragedy that took the lives of her parents. The only problem is that he's the best friend of her brother and she knew Lucien could never love a girl as innocent and inexperienced as herself. Little does she know, Lucien is drawn to Horatia in a way he's never been drawn to any lady before. So when someone threatens the lives of the men of the League and Horatia's life is in danger, Lucien doesn't hesitate to take Horatia away to his country estate where they can finally explore the intense chemistry brewing between them…
Right away, you know Lucien is trouble. He's not shy around women and has definitely earned his reputation as a rogue. So when he finds himself captivated by Horatia, despite the fact that she's completely innocent and unlike the women he normally attempts to bed, he knows he's in for it. The only problem? She's his best friend's sister, and the League has explicit rules forbidding any relations with one another's sisters. I love how overprotective Cedric is, to both Horatia and Audrey, especially because he just wants his family to be together and doesn't want to be alone. That doesn't stop Horatia from going after Lucien, though, and I loved how daring she was when normally she's so innocent and reserved. It was fun seeing her open up to her seductive side and exploring what passions Lucien had to offer.
The only problem I had with their relationship, though, was how forceful Lucien was in the beginning. His advanced tended to border on aggressive and I know that he always offered Horatia the chance to stop him, but I feel like when she did stop him, he kept on going after her until she finally relented and let him. I think a bit more tenderness on his part would have made their relationship better. Other than that, though, I really enjoyed the passion and steamy nights together. The mystery and danger behind who was trying to kill them definitely added some suspense and even more passion to Horatia and Lucien's romance.
Overall, Lauren Smith delivered yet another yummy, dangerous historical romance. The best thing about her books so far, though, is definitely how close the relationships of her characters are. They are all either close best friends or close siblings who will do anything to protect one other. This made the relationship have so much more depth and it was great being getting a glimpse into the lives of this tight-knit group of lovable characters. If you haven't already, I'd definitely recommend any historical romance fan to check out Lauren Smith's League of Rogues books.
November 11, 2014
League Rule #2: “One must never seduce another member’s sister. Should this rule be broken, the member whose sister was seduced has the right to demand satisfaction”. Alas, in HIS WICKED SEDUCTION by Lauren Smith, that rule is broken and put to a test!
Who knew a league of Rogues would have rules? These “Peers of the Realm” are all bad boys, rakehells and seriously fun men!! Poor Horatia has been in love with Lucien, Marquess of Rochester since she was a teenager. He did save her life after a tragic carriage accident, which took the lives of her parents. Lucien reacts by being cold towards her, because he knows she is a lady and an innocent. Plus, she is his friend Cedric’s little sister! Horatia tries countless ways to seduce him and make him hers, but he likes his women, should we say, a tad wanton? He likes control and pleasing his women with a little bit of bondage and fun. Red silk ties come to mind!
The League’s arch nemesis and enemy, Hugo Waverly is still on the loose and he soon threatens Horatia’s life. Lucien sweeps Horatia away to his family’s estate for safety. That’s when the action really begins. Who would guess that spending the Christmas Holidays in the quiet countryside would be so hot and fun! The men in the League of Rogues are all great characters and they make appearances throughout the novel, but Lucien and Cedric’s families take center stage!
Audrey is Horatia’s little sister and is so cunning and full of life. She wants to get married, but with Cedric as her guardian, her suitors are all scared off! In her quest to change her brother’s mind, she even scares some League members in her attempts to be “ravished”. I can’t wait to read her courtship! She is a master manipulator, but in a delightful and stylish way! My favorite secondary character is Lady Rochester! You don’t think she is a mother of four sons, who are all wild and a daughter without having a hand in their development? As the saying goes, the “fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree”! She hides in cupboards to eavesdrop on her children and then jumps out at them. She is determined to get her brood married, because she wants grandchildren and lots of them! She admits that while her late husband was mild and good natured, she was a “hellion” and all of her children take after her! What’s a mother to do? She has some clever ways to get Lucien and Horatia together. Plus, she plans the greatest activities. They have a snow fort fight, men against the women and it was hilarious! I will reread this book for this chapter alone!
Horatia proves to Lucien throughout this novel, that she can keep up with him and that she enjoys his “wicked desires”, but they must keep their relationship a secret from Cedric, or else that Second Rule must be honored! The last chapters are action packed with danger, betrayal, villains, forgiveness and most of all, LOVE! I can’t wait to for the next Rogue to fall!
Who knew a league of Rogues would have rules? These “Peers of the Realm” are all bad boys, rakehells and seriously fun men!! Poor Horatia has been in love with Lucien, Marquess of Rochester since she was a teenager. He did save her life after a tragic carriage accident, which took the lives of her parents. Lucien reacts by being cold towards her, because he knows she is a lady and an innocent. Plus, she is his friend Cedric’s little sister! Horatia tries countless ways to seduce him and make him hers, but he likes his women, should we say, a tad wanton? He likes control and pleasing his women with a little bit of bondage and fun. Red silk ties come to mind!
The League’s arch nemesis and enemy, Hugo Waverly is still on the loose and he soon threatens Horatia’s life. Lucien sweeps Horatia away to his family’s estate for safety. That’s when the action really begins. Who would guess that spending the Christmas Holidays in the quiet countryside would be so hot and fun! The men in the League of Rogues are all great characters and they make appearances throughout the novel, but Lucien and Cedric’s families take center stage!
Audrey is Horatia’s little sister and is so cunning and full of life. She wants to get married, but with Cedric as her guardian, her suitors are all scared off! In her quest to change her brother’s mind, she even scares some League members in her attempts to be “ravished”. I can’t wait to read her courtship! She is a master manipulator, but in a delightful and stylish way! My favorite secondary character is Lady Rochester! You don’t think she is a mother of four sons, who are all wild and a daughter without having a hand in their development? As the saying goes, the “fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree”! She hides in cupboards to eavesdrop on her children and then jumps out at them. She is determined to get her brood married, because she wants grandchildren and lots of them! She admits that while her late husband was mild and good natured, she was a “hellion” and all of her children take after her! What’s a mother to do? She has some clever ways to get Lucien and Horatia together. Plus, she plans the greatest activities. They have a snow fort fight, men against the women and it was hilarious! I will reread this book for this chapter alone!
Horatia proves to Lucien throughout this novel, that she can keep up with him and that she enjoys his “wicked desires”, but they must keep their relationship a secret from Cedric, or else that Second Rule must be honored! The last chapters are action packed with danger, betrayal, villains, forgiveness and most of all, LOVE! I can’t wait to for the next Rogue to fall!
November 20, 2014
Oh, what a tragedy this is. Not really but it pains me to give only 3 stars to someone like Lauren Smith. I've read other works by her and this is by far the least of my favorites.
Horatia, our heroine decides to be Lucien's shoe cleaning mat and lets him step all over her in every which way he chooses, all in the name of the unrequited love she's felt for him ever since she was a child. Lucien is of course a member of the League of Rogues, London's most notorious rakes and Horatia's brother's best friend. Lucien didn't love Horatia at first but then developed feelings for her. What does he do? He becomes a sort of sociopath towards Horatia in order to keep his feelings hidden. Horatia in turn turns masochist because no matter how bad she's treated she keeps coming back for more. I kept thinking, is Lucien a closeted sadist? I mean, he does like bondage maybe he does get off by being cruel to Horatia... It was those times that I wanted to put the book down and move on. There is really not much romance between those two and that really irritated me.
Also, there was too much description as to the why of everyone's behavior. To me, the character of well, a character should be pretty explanatory through their actions. Here, almost everything that was going on through their heads came with a "side note". He did this because of this. And he did that because previously that happened. By the time I started on another scene, I had already forgotten there were other characters in the book. I know the story was going for funny but the dialogue and some of the encounters and scenes sounded so unfeasible for the times that even thought they made me laugh at times it was just not believable.
All in all, the plot was ok. I liked that a villain is still out there and will not be so easily defeated. The members of the League are extremely charming in their own specific way. We meet another heroine who hopefully will have a stronger backbone. I'd say the best of the book is towards the end when Lucien kind of grows a heart and Horatia a spine and they both find a way to be together.
I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series. I didn't like this story but hopefully that was just a glitch and like I said, I've loved other works by this author and I still want to know who is the next member to get caught.
Horatia, our heroine decides to be Lucien's shoe cleaning mat and lets him step all over her in every which way he chooses, all in the name of the unrequited love she's felt for him ever since she was a child. Lucien is of course a member of the League of Rogues, London's most notorious rakes and Horatia's brother's best friend. Lucien didn't love Horatia at first but then developed feelings for her. What does he do? He becomes a sort of sociopath towards Horatia in order to keep his feelings hidden. Horatia in turn turns masochist because no matter how bad she's treated she keeps coming back for more. I kept thinking, is Lucien a closeted sadist? I mean, he does like bondage maybe he does get off by being cruel to Horatia... It was those times that I wanted to put the book down and move on. There is really not much romance between those two and that really irritated me.
Also, there was too much description as to the why of everyone's behavior. To me, the character of well, a character should be pretty explanatory through their actions. Here, almost everything that was going on through their heads came with a "side note". He did this because of this. And he did that because previously that happened. By the time I started on another scene, I had already forgotten there were other characters in the book. I know the story was going for funny but the dialogue and some of the encounters and scenes sounded so unfeasible for the times that even thought they made me laugh at times it was just not believable.
All in all, the plot was ok. I liked that a villain is still out there and will not be so easily defeated. The members of the League are extremely charming in their own specific way. We meet another heroine who hopefully will have a stronger backbone. I'd say the best of the book is towards the end when Lucien kind of grows a heart and Horatia a spine and they both find a way to be together.
I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series. I didn't like this story but hopefully that was just a glitch and like I said, I've loved other works by this author and I still want to know who is the next member to get caught.
September 30, 2014
#2 in "The League of Rogues" series, but can be read as a stand alone. Although, I would recommend reading the first in the series to better understand the reasons why someone is out to destroy the League.
Fast paced, filled with plenty of action, secrets, passion, danger, friendship, deceit, witty banter and romance. WOW! What a wickedly delicious tale that will have you holding your breath as the next disaster approaches the rogues and their family. The characters are engaging, entertaining, believable and charming. The storyline is intriguing, intense at times but light-hearted at others. Not your run of the mill romance. It is blended with mystery, suspense, and plenty of sizzling romance. Well done! I can hardly wait for the next installment. Love endures and conquers much. An enjoyable read with a satisfying ending. Until next time,readers much endure, as we wait to see who the next victim will be in this calcaluted villian's plans for the members of the League.
*Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sizzling/steamy
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Fast paced, filled with plenty of action, secrets, passion, danger, friendship, deceit, witty banter and romance. WOW! What a wickedly delicious tale that will have you holding your breath as the next disaster approaches the rogues and their family. The characters are engaging, entertaining, believable and charming. The storyline is intriguing, intense at times but light-hearted at others. Not your run of the mill romance. It is blended with mystery, suspense, and plenty of sizzling romance. Well done! I can hardly wait for the next installment. Love endures and conquers much. An enjoyable read with a satisfying ending. Until next time,readers much endure, as we wait to see who the next victim will be in this calcaluted villian's plans for the members of the League.
*Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley*
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Sizzling/steamy
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
November 11, 2014
Lucien, Marquess of Rochester always felt lust and kindness to Miss Horatia Sheridan. But The League Rule #2 and his friendship with Cedric prevents him from acting on his desires. He has to give her the cold shoulder so she will not look at him with love. Horatia Sheridan has and will always be in love with Lucien ever since he saved her from the carriage wreck which killed her parents. Her hearts breaks every minute she spent with Lucien. I love Horatia. She is a very graceful, passive and intelligent which draws Lucien. Now The League is being threaten and they are always in each other's homes. Lucien could no longer deny his attraction for Horatia. He has to be close to her and protect her. It was amusing how crazy The League can be. I really adore Emily and her Society of Rebellious Ladies. I received this complimentary book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2019
My second, and last, book by this author. So this is a hero falling for his buddy's little sister trope. Which I normally love. But I normally love this trope when it takes awhile for the hero to break down his walls and go for it. But this particular story starts off with the hero madly in lust and the heroine madly in love with each other. So for me, there is no build up to the feelings. This seems to be Lauren Smith's style of writing, which is fine, just not for me. Lots of inner thoughts going on and on about what they would love to do to each other sexually, just within the first few chapters. I gave up when the heroine's female parts began to quiver just from a single (innocent) glance across the room from the hero's green? midnight? eyes. I just feel like LS books are steamy for shock value and not from a build-up of emotion and substance.
September 20, 2014
The League of Rogues is a group of close friends who have rules they must abide by. But what do you do when one of those rules prevents you from the one person you want more than anything? Lucien's unorthodox desires and that one rule have him struggling to stay away from the one woman he wants most, Horatia. The sparks between these two made it fun to read. I found myself wanting to smack Cedric, Horatia's brother, upside the head at times. I laughed at the conversations between Lucien's family...especially his mother.
The danger that stalks the League of Rogues kept you guessing as to what was going to happen and when. This was wonderfully written and I honestly can't wait to read the next story....especially after how this one ended. Want to know? Read it, you will love it!
The danger that stalks the League of Rogues kept you guessing as to what was going to happen and when. This was wonderfully written and I honestly can't wait to read the next story....especially after how this one ended. Want to know? Read it, you will love it!
November 17, 2014
Lauren Smith's follow up to her best selling Wicked Designs was absolutely delightful. Honestly, if I had to pick between the two, I'd pick this one, and Wicked Designs was a best seller--so what does that tell you. :)
Seriously, this book was a fantastic combination of emotional angst, hysterical escapeds, and well-woven suspense. Steamy sex scenese aside, the humor was probably my favorite part. The snowball fights, the dual at dawn (yes, it's funny), and Lucien's mom's machmaking hijinks make this a super memorable read.
You don't have to read the stories in order, they stand very well alone. But why not? Then you get the bost of both worlds.
Seriously, this book was a fantastic combination of emotional angst, hysterical escapeds, and well-woven suspense. Steamy sex scenese aside, the humor was probably my favorite part. The snowball fights, the dual at dawn (yes, it's funny), and Lucien's mom's machmaking hijinks make this a super memorable read.
You don't have to read the stories in order, they stand very well alone. But why not? Then you get the bost of both worlds.
February 8, 2018
I really don't get all the good reviews for this book. It only got the extra start because she puts her words together really well. From a historical perspective, the characters do NOTHING that fits in the time period. The book feels more like a contemporary bunch of characters wearing historical clothes.
I also have a problem with the insta-lust that starts right at the beginning and continues on throughout the remainder of the book. I'm not a fan of clean romance, but I also don't like a book that has no real plot, only a bunch of hip grinding in every conceivable scene.
I also have a problem with the insta-lust that starts right at the beginning and continues on throughout the remainder of the book. I'm not a fan of clean romance, but I also don't like a book that has no real plot, only a bunch of hip grinding in every conceivable scene.
June 20, 2015
This story is wonderful. I laughed when the Ladies escaped from the locked bedroom and re-appeared downstairs, and loved the snowball fight - Ladies v Gentlemen.
I think that after reading only 2 novels by Lauren Smith, she is becoming another one of my favourite authors!
I enjoyed this book immensely.
I think that after reading only 2 novels by Lauren Smith, she is becoming another one of my favourite authors!
I enjoyed this book immensely.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews