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Heart's Temptation #4
Sweet Scandal
Not the average lady...
Lady Helen Harrington is a spinster by choice. She hasn’t any desire to entangle herself in romantic nonsense. Instead, she prefers to spend her time championing the causes nearest to her heart through writing articles for the London Beacon. When a ruthless American tycoon suddenly buys the struggling paper with plans to turn it into a business journal, Lady Helen isn’t about to stand idly by or put down her pen. Even if the ruthless tycoon in question happens to be the most maddeningly handsome man she’s ever met in her life.
Not the average man...
Levi Storm built his empire the hard way, spending years working his way out of the slums where he grew up. He won’t allow a spoiled aristocrat like Lady Helen to interfere with his plans to further his brand with the newspaper he’s just acquired. It doesn’t matter how lovely she is or how persuasive her arguments or how perfectly she fits in his arms.
One sweet scandal...
When scandal looms and Helen discovers a shocking secret about Levi, she does what she must to protect herself. But Levi isn’t the sort of man who admits defeat, and he’s not ready to give up on the plucky Lady Helen, especially when he discovers that she has secrets of her own…
Lady Helen Harrington is a spinster by choice. She hasn’t any desire to entangle herself in romantic nonsense. Instead, she prefers to spend her time championing the causes nearest to her heart through writing articles for the London Beacon. When a ruthless American tycoon suddenly buys the struggling paper with plans to turn it into a business journal, Lady Helen isn’t about to stand idly by or put down her pen. Even if the ruthless tycoon in question happens to be the most maddeningly handsome man she’s ever met in her life.
Not the average man...
Levi Storm built his empire the hard way, spending years working his way out of the slums where he grew up. He won’t allow a spoiled aristocrat like Lady Helen to interfere with his plans to further his brand with the newspaper he’s just acquired. It doesn’t matter how lovely she is or how persuasive her arguments or how perfectly she fits in his arms.
One sweet scandal...
When scandal looms and Helen discovers a shocking secret about Levi, she does what she must to protect herself. But Levi isn’t the sort of man who admits defeat, and he’s not ready to give up on the plucky Lady Helen, especially when he discovers that she has secrets of her own…
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 9, 2017
About the author
Scarlett Scott
125 books1,612 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Scarlett Scott writes steamy Victorian and Regency historical romances with strong, intelligent heroines and sexy alpha heroes. She lives in Pennsylvania and Maryland with her Canadian husband, their adorable identical twins, a demanding diva dog, and one zany cat.
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
For Scarlett's latest releases, exclusive excerpts, contests and more, visit her website, http://www.scarlettscottauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
June 5, 2019
2 Disappointed & Somewhat Indifferent Stars
Mmm, so this didn’t feel like much of a historical romance, and I didn’t find myself enamoured, at all, with the plot and hero. This book in the series focuses on Lady Helen Harrington and American tycoon and self-made man Levi Storm, from the moment they meet they clash but sparks also fly.
I really didn’t like the fact that Levi went after Helen despite Levi also puts his pride first, rather than his supposedly strong feelings for Helen, and although there were some sweet moments between them, I just didn’t finish the book feeling delightedly pleased about their HEA.
Whilst I wasn’t very keen on this book/plot, what I like is that whilst the books/characters intersect, each one in the series can be read comfortably as a standalone.
Acquired via KU.
Mmm, so this didn’t feel like much of a historical romance, and I didn’t find myself enamoured, at all, with the plot and hero. This book in the series focuses on Lady Helen Harrington and American tycoon and self-made man Levi Storm, from the moment they meet they clash but sparks also fly.
I really didn’t like the fact that Levi went after Helen despite Levi also puts his pride first, rather than his supposedly strong feelings for Helen, and although there were some sweet moments between them, I just didn’t finish the book feeling delightedly pleased about their HEA.
Whilst I wasn’t very keen on this book/plot, what I like is that whilst the books/characters intersect, each one in the series can be read comfortably as a standalone.
Acquired via KU.
August 24, 2018
Ugh. Malapropisms. Modernisms. Americanisms. (“Ornery” anyone?) Awkward, anachronistic or ungrammatical expressions. “he had been beloved to her out of her three brothers.” “ the sort of woman with which one dallied”
Just had no authentic HR vibe for me and the story was unbelievable.
Just had no authentic HR vibe for me and the story was unbelievable.
June 18, 2017
'Sweet Scandal' by Scarlett Scott is book Four in the "Heart's Temptation" series.
This is the story of Lady Helen Harrington and Levi Storm. I have not yet read the other books in this series so for me this was a standalone book.
Helen and her friends are reformers and Helen has been writing a monthly article in the London Beacon for around three years. Helen has been reporting on issues to help those in need. When one day she comes into the office it is to find that everything is in disarray and workers everywhere. When she bumps into Levi they imminently start butting heads. He tell her to get out she trying to find out what is going on because she had no ideal that the paper was being sold.
Levi is from America and more importantly is from the streets. So he is pretty harsh at first with her but he has a immediate attraction to her. Helen to is taken back by this American and his harsh ways but she is finding him very handsome. He threats to throw her over his shoulder if she doesn't leave. Every scene they had was funny and exciting. I must say I loved their encounters!
I will surly be looking to read more in this series!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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This is the story of Lady Helen Harrington and Levi Storm. I have not yet read the other books in this series so for me this was a standalone book.
Helen and her friends are reformers and Helen has been writing a monthly article in the London Beacon for around three years. Helen has been reporting on issues to help those in need. When one day she comes into the office it is to find that everything is in disarray and workers everywhere. When she bumps into Levi they imminently start butting heads. He tell her to get out she trying to find out what is going on because she had no ideal that the paper was being sold.
Levi is from America and more importantly is from the streets. So he is pretty harsh at first with her but he has a immediate attraction to her. Helen to is taken back by this American and his harsh ways but she is finding him very handsome. He threats to throw her over his shoulder if she doesn't leave. Every scene they had was funny and exciting. I must say I loved their encounters!
I will surly be looking to read more in this series!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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
June 19, 2017
Actual Rating: 4.5
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
Sparks fly when two people forget they despise each other.
Levi is a man on a mission. Having traveled all the way to London from America, he is determined to bring electricity to this side of the pond and best his rival, Edison. But everything that can go wrong seems to and Levi's patience is running thin. So when a woman shows up asking questions about the company he bought, he is in no mood to appease her. No matter how beautiful she is.
Helen cannot believe that her old boss sold the paper. She had been contributing articles for a long time and now she's out of a job. The new owner won't even consider keeping her on to write for him. And worse, the man is insufferably rude and devastatingly handsome. But mostly just rude. Even if he does have the most adorable dimples when he smiles, she won't let him off the hook so easily.
When the pair are thrust together again, they cannot help but clash. It's the ambitious American man versus the philanthropic English lady and the showdown just might lead to steamy stolen kisses in the dark. But Levi has a secret that will put a permanent wedge between them if it comes to light and soon, Helen may have a secret of her own.
This book jerked my emotions around so much that I thought I was on a roller coaster. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, it went off the rails and flew into left field. There are really two halves of the story and each impressed me in different ways.
The first half was your standard historical romance fare. A couple meets and argues (quite a bit, actually), sparks fly between them, smooches happen, and feelings begin to stir. I was pleasantly surprised to find our heroine wasn't the typical character who denied her desires. She knew she wasn't destined for marriage but saw no reason why she couldn't have a bit of fun for once. The chemistry between our couple was explosive and fantastic.
Then there is an entire year that passes, leading to the second half of the book. I was thrown for a loop here because while separations usually occur in romances, this year was sudden and really long. The story actually took on a different tone and became a bit darker. Where I was happily enjoying the bedroom trysts in the first half, now I was frowning as our characters had to work through their anger and mistrust. It was a completely opposite sort of story but just as intense.
My only real issue is I just didn't really understand why Helen was so angry after discovering Levi's secret. He had even told her that he couldn't offer her marriage and she didn't act like she wanted it anyway. I think maybe it was more about the "how" it came out than the "what" the secret actually was, perhaps? Either way, it was a great read!
In closing...
It might have been my first Scott novel but it won't be my last! 4.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2017/06/review-tour-sweet-scandal-by-scarlett.html
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
Sparks fly when two people forget they despise each other.
Levi is a man on a mission. Having traveled all the way to London from America, he is determined to bring electricity to this side of the pond and best his rival, Edison. But everything that can go wrong seems to and Levi's patience is running thin. So when a woman shows up asking questions about the company he bought, he is in no mood to appease her. No matter how beautiful she is.
Helen cannot believe that her old boss sold the paper. She had been contributing articles for a long time and now she's out of a job. The new owner won't even consider keeping her on to write for him. And worse, the man is insufferably rude and devastatingly handsome. But mostly just rude. Even if he does have the most adorable dimples when he smiles, she won't let him off the hook so easily.
When the pair are thrust together again, they cannot help but clash. It's the ambitious American man versus the philanthropic English lady and the showdown just might lead to steamy stolen kisses in the dark. But Levi has a secret that will put a permanent wedge between them if it comes to light and soon, Helen may have a secret of her own.
This book jerked my emotions around so much that I thought I was on a roller coaster. Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, it went off the rails and flew into left field. There are really two halves of the story and each impressed me in different ways.
The first half was your standard historical romance fare. A couple meets and argues (quite a bit, actually), sparks fly between them, smooches happen, and feelings begin to stir. I was pleasantly surprised to find our heroine wasn't the typical character who denied her desires. She knew she wasn't destined for marriage but saw no reason why she couldn't have a bit of fun for once. The chemistry between our couple was explosive and fantastic.
Then there is an entire year that passes, leading to the second half of the book. I was thrown for a loop here because while separations usually occur in romances, this year was sudden and really long. The story actually took on a different tone and became a bit darker. Where I was happily enjoying the bedroom trysts in the first half, now I was frowning as our characters had to work through their anger and mistrust. It was a completely opposite sort of story but just as intense.
My only real issue is I just didn't really understand why Helen was so angry after discovering Levi's secret. He had even told her that he couldn't offer her marriage and she didn't act like she wanted it anyway. I think maybe it was more about the "how" it came out than the "what" the secret actually was, perhaps? Either way, it was a great read!
In closing...
It might have been my first Scott novel but it won't be my last! 4.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2017/06/review-tour-sweet-scandal-by-scarlett.html
June 22, 2017
The Book Junkie Reads . . . Review of . . . SWEET SCANDAL (Heart’s Temptation, #4) . . . What a read. This one came out of nowhere for me. Wam right into me. I so enjoyed this one. I could not put it down. I was in tending on just getting me feet wet and she what this author had to offer me. I was net expecting to look up and hours had pasted and I was close to finishing the read. American in England and buying a paper. The harsh American had no idea how to talk to a lady let alone the decency to give her the respect she was due. She was just in his way. Lady Helen had to find out what was going on with her paper. And some rude American was in her way.
Neither of the two realizing the truth of their encounter. The whole joy of this read was to see the encounters between these two characters. It was just so fun. Sucking up one encounter to get to the next. This was what I needed. I polished off this read quickly and look forward to going to read the first three of this series. Not out of need, but out of desire to see more of Scarlett Scott’s work. I ready to gobble down the next one with just as much enjoyment.
Heart’s Temptation series:
A Mad Passion – Heart’s Temptation, #1
Rebel Love – Heart’s Temptation, #2
Reckless Need – Heart’s Temptation, #3
Sweet Scandal – Heart’s Temptation, #4
Neither of the two realizing the truth of their encounter. The whole joy of this read was to see the encounters between these two characters. It was just so fun. Sucking up one encounter to get to the next. This was what I needed. I polished off this read quickly and look forward to going to read the first three of this series. Not out of need, but out of desire to see more of Scarlett Scott’s work. I ready to gobble down the next one with just as much enjoyment.
Heart’s Temptation series:
A Mad Passion – Heart’s Temptation, #1
Rebel Love – Heart’s Temptation, #2
Reckless Need – Heart’s Temptation, #3
Sweet Scandal – Heart’s Temptation, #4
December 9, 2020
Levi is mine.
That's all.
That's all.
August 27, 2025
5 Stars
It started out fun, went into the heartbreaking, then towards righteous anger, along came truce and finally some grovelling! What's not to love? A self-made hero, a spinster heroine, the sweetest scandal!
This has to be said - Ms Scott loves her characters to be immensely fertile! Bloody amazing. Most of her FMC get knocked up so easily and us mere mortals try and try and try again.
It started out fun, went into the heartbreaking, then towards righteous anger, along came truce and finally some grovelling! What's not to love? A self-made hero, a spinster heroine, the sweetest scandal!
This has to be said - Ms Scott loves her characters to be immensely fertile! Bloody amazing. Most of her FMC get knocked up so easily and us mere mortals try and try and try again.
June 11, 2017
Sweet Scandal (Heart’s Temptation Book 4) by Scarlett Scott
• Scandalous
What a scandalous story. It was fun to read. The banter between Lady Helen and Mr Storm was quite exciting, especially considering London at that time. Women surely didn't act so.... But Scarlett made it flow seamlessly. This was the first of the Heart's Temptation series that I've read, now I'm curious what the others are about. Although this is a series, this story also reads as a standalone novel as I read it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 17 and older!
Favorite Passage ~
• “There can be no flattery in truth,”
• Scandalous
What a scandalous story. It was fun to read. The banter between Lady Helen and Mr Storm was quite exciting, especially considering London at that time. Women surely didn't act so.... But Scarlett made it flow seamlessly. This was the first of the Heart's Temptation series that I've read, now I'm curious what the others are about. Although this is a series, this story also reads as a standalone novel as I read it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book via Tasty Book Tours for an honest blog tour review. Due to sexual situations, this book is recommended for readers 17 and older!
Favorite Passage ~
• “There can be no flattery in truth,”
February 16, 2018
I like the whole series....
This is a good series & break from all the contemporary romances I’ve been indulging in. I like the entire family of women, and the men are perfectly Alpha.
Helen was unique. A true do gooder spinster who falls in love with an American self made man. I loved the push and pull.
Recommend.
This is a good series & break from all the contemporary romances I’ve been indulging in. I like the entire family of women, and the men are perfectly Alpha.
Helen was unique. A true do gooder spinster who falls in love with an American self made man. I loved the push and pull.
Recommend.
June 19, 2017
Sweet Scandal has all the prerequisites for a sexy, top shelf Victorian romance.
You have Lady Helen, a feisty, gorgeous, reformer - and spinster. She's perfectly comfortable with the life she built for herself on the shelf. I adore that she's older - a rarity in Regency and historical romances where even the widows are in their twenties.
Then there's Levi Storm - so much more than your typical Victorian hero. Sure , he's tall, dark and handsome. But he's also a self-made, American millionaire (rather than a Robber Baron) and an inventor to boot. He's all about winning the race to electrify America and Europe - and racing against Thomas Edison to do it.
Like all good Victorian romances our couple meets "cute/awkward". Levi buys the run down journal which had been publishing Lady Helen's rather incendiary opinion pieces and removes her from the staff - and his offices. They butt heads repeatedly after they find themselves stuck with one another. Their respective best friends are married to one another, and have them both under their roof as house guests. Sparks soon fly and Lady Helen decides to ignore the strictures on women placed on herby Victorian society and gets involved with Levi Storm - no strings attached. Naturally they fall in love - hard and fast. They're a couple who love one another on a deeper level - their witty and engaging banter is just one way it comes to life on the page. Of course there are complications which I won't spoil for the reader. But needless to say, our couple goes through a great deal of hardship before they find their happily ever after.
The things I loved about the book:
Lady Helen came across a woman of her time when she decised to take charge of her sexuality and throw caution to the wind. It was a refreshing change from most period romances where the heroine reads like a modern woman when making her decisions about sex and love. I also love how both the hero and heroine had callings. Levi was an inventor and Lady Helen was a precursor to a modern-day social worker. I loved her life in the women's shelter and the characters that populated it. In that respect, the story had a very modern feel which in no way distracted its period setting.
The things I didn't like:
They broke up and the story jumped ahead a year, glossing over how the complication came to be. I wish we would've known a little bit more about what was going on with Helen and Levi during that time. I was really invested in these characters and I wanted to spend as much time with them as possibe. I felt that the flash forward cheated the reader out of some time with them. That being said, the second part of the book which dealt with the complication felt a little bit rushed. I would've liked them to take more taken more time to resolve their differences and come together in a more thoughtful manner. It seemed like instalove which didn't make much sense to this reader in second chance situation like Levi and Helen's.
All in all, if you enjoy historical romances, especially with a little spice, pick up Sweet Scandal.
It's a sexy, sweet ,easy read and a great way to spend a rainy afternoon.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Four stars
You have Lady Helen, a feisty, gorgeous, reformer - and spinster. She's perfectly comfortable with the life she built for herself on the shelf. I adore that she's older - a rarity in Regency and historical romances where even the widows are in their twenties.
Then there's Levi Storm - so much more than your typical Victorian hero. Sure , he's tall, dark and handsome. But he's also a self-made, American millionaire (rather than a Robber Baron) and an inventor to boot. He's all about winning the race to electrify America and Europe - and racing against Thomas Edison to do it.
Like all good Victorian romances our couple meets "cute/awkward". Levi buys the run down journal which had been publishing Lady Helen's rather incendiary opinion pieces and removes her from the staff - and his offices. They butt heads repeatedly after they find themselves stuck with one another. Their respective best friends are married to one another, and have them both under their roof as house guests. Sparks soon fly and Lady Helen decides to ignore the strictures on women placed on herby Victorian society and gets involved with Levi Storm - no strings attached. Naturally they fall in love - hard and fast. They're a couple who love one another on a deeper level - their witty and engaging banter is just one way it comes to life on the page. Of course there are complications which I won't spoil for the reader. But needless to say, our couple goes through a great deal of hardship before they find their happily ever after.
The things I loved about the book:
Lady Helen came across a woman of her time when she decised to take charge of her sexuality and throw caution to the wind. It was a refreshing change from most period romances where the heroine reads like a modern woman when making her decisions about sex and love. I also love how both the hero and heroine had callings. Levi was an inventor and Lady Helen was a precursor to a modern-day social worker. I loved her life in the women's shelter and the characters that populated it. In that respect, the story had a very modern feel which in no way distracted its period setting.
The things I didn't like:
They broke up and the story jumped ahead a year, glossing over how the complication came to be. I wish we would've known a little bit more about what was going on with Helen and Levi during that time. I was really invested in these characters and I wanted to spend as much time with them as possibe. I felt that the flash forward cheated the reader out of some time with them. That being said, the second part of the book which dealt with the complication felt a little bit rushed. I would've liked them to take more taken more time to resolve their differences and come together in a more thoughtful manner. It seemed like instalove which didn't make much sense to this reader in second chance situation like Levi and Helen's.
All in all, if you enjoy historical romances, especially with a little spice, pick up Sweet Scandal.
It's a sexy, sweet ,easy read and a great way to spend a rainy afternoon.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Four stars
June 10, 2017
Let me begin by saying that this novel does contain scenes of a sexual nature that occur outside of wedlock. I say this only because I know some of my readers prefer clean romances. Also, even though this is billed as book four in a series, you do not have to have read the other stories in order for this one to make sense.
This book was wonderfully put together! The characters were witty and engaging, and the chemistry was obvious from the start. I loved Helen. She was such a strong, independent character (and open reformer) that watching her match wits with Levi was nothing short of entertaining. From their first meeting to their first kiss, it was a real treat watching these two characters find their way to romance with each other. I loved the "drama" caused not only with Levi and his electric company (I do believe this is the first time I have read a novel that tackled the difficulties surrounding early electricity), but between Levi and Helen as well. There story wasn't an easy one, but it was a realistic one.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a well-written and engaging historical romance. I would read more from this author!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
This book was wonderfully put together! The characters were witty and engaging, and the chemistry was obvious from the start. I loved Helen. She was such a strong, independent character (and open reformer) that watching her match wits with Levi was nothing short of entertaining. From their first meeting to their first kiss, it was a real treat watching these two characters find their way to romance with each other. I loved the "drama" caused not only with Levi and his electric company (I do believe this is the first time I have read a novel that tackled the difficulties surrounding early electricity), but between Levi and Helen as well. There story wasn't an easy one, but it was a realistic one.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a well-written and engaging historical romance. I would read more from this author!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
June 20, 2017
SWEET SCANDAL is book 4 of Hearts Temptation series
I read it as a stand-alone with no trouble and I thoroughly enjoyed it.. It's just so good. I went through a whole range of emotions. I laughed, got teary eyed and even angry.
I loved the characters, I felt a connection almost immediately. Levi is not your ordinary hero, he rose above his circumstances to create an empire. Helen is just as “outside the box”. She’s older, a confirmed spinster and a reformer. Together they were amazing.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes the Victorian setting or out of the ordinary characters.
I read it as a stand-alone with no trouble and I thoroughly enjoyed it.. It's just so good. I went through a whole range of emotions. I laughed, got teary eyed and even angry.
I loved the characters, I felt a connection almost immediately. Levi is not your ordinary hero, he rose above his circumstances to create an empire. Helen is just as “outside the box”. She’s older, a confirmed spinster and a reformer. Together they were amazing.
I would recommend this book to anyone that likes the Victorian setting or out of the ordinary characters.
June 21, 2019
I liked the banter between the Hero and the Heroin, but I found both their interests a bit boring.
March 3, 2021
This book made me furious. I am so tired of the cocky intsa lust. They started an affair. He TOLD her that he couldn’t marry her. He TOLD her he was leaving. He NEVER told her he loved her. SHE wasn’t planning on it being permanent. SHE only wanted a couple of nights with him. When she found out he had a fiancé, she ran off and wouldn’t correspond with him and hid his secret baby from him for a year. She was mad for no reason. They never had an agreement. The punishment she doled out for him was too severe. The fact that the h is illogical, made me furious. That the author separated them for a year made me furious. Of course the book ends that she can’t be mad at him anymore bc she lusts him. I’ve tried other books by this author, but this is the last straw. I’m not reading this author ever again. She can keep that mess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2020
This is my second favorite book by Scarlett Scott. I loved everything about both of the characters. I have returned to this book several times because it is so well-written and full of angst, which I'm a sucker for!
December 17, 2020
I have a soft spot for some of Scarlett Scott's books. You do have to know what to expect, though. Trademarks of her plots include insta-lust between couples of completely different stations in life, with no stinting on the sex scenes, and some rough language sprinkled throughout. This may or may not be your cup of tea. There are times the formula works for me. This one, though, was a no-go. The biggest problem is neither the hero nor heroine communicates in any logical fashion, neither one behaves in any logical fashion, and they argue in circles when not having sex. Their scenes together remind me of a relationship on the rocks. They're that bickering couple you know who are fun when they're apart, but drive you crazy when they're together.
I thought the hero was condescending from the start, doing the usual "alpha-male hauling the little woman over his shoulder" routine. Was hoping for the storyline to improve. But then he basically stalks the heroine, gets handsy, and even straight-out propositions her a couple times. This is meant to seem sexy but comes off as creepy (especially when he implies that having relations with him might help her get her articles published. This is ambiguously written, but no joke, it's what he's implying). Of course, he's gorgeous and the heroine is naturally drawn to him--so she doesn't perceive it as creepy at all. Ugh.
The heroine, who seemed reasonable and rational early in the story, decides to throw caution to the wind for nights of passion, and suddenly the hero is completely smitten by a woman he barely knows and sometimes doesn't seem to care that much for. I just didn't buy their bond for each other.
Now on to...
Questions (may contain spoilers):
--Why is the heroine so completely nasty to the hero when she finds out about his engagement? She has a reason to be angry, but takes it so far you lose respect for her. Note: Yes, I know, the way she talks to the hero is just fodder to further the plot, supplying justification for the hero not seeking her out sooner. But the weak characterization is disappointing.
--The hero isn't blameless, either. He knows how humiliated and used the heroine felt by a man in her past, and her family has no history of supporting her. But he doesn't tell h he's engaged, and after she finds out, she's supposed to automatically know that he cares for her? (He did have a chance to explain to her how he felt before he went to France, and he blew it.)
--Then the biggie: Why did no one tell the heroine that the hero's engagement fell through? H wrote all these letters to h and never told her? His friend Jesse didn't know? And when Jesse's wife, the heroine's bestie, finally read about it in the papers, she decided not to tell her friend. It makes complete sense that a woman in those days would not have wanted a man to know about their son if she believed him married, and if she had no reason to believe he loved her or even felt committed to her. In those days bastard children were perceived as a threat to inheritances and were ostracized by families. And the hero would have known this. The heroine was doing everything she could to protect her son.
Anyway, I got a little past 2/3 of the way through, when the newlyweds are keeping up their continual finger-pointing. Then H hauls h over his shoulder a second time. And I called it a day.
I thought the hero was condescending from the start, doing the usual "alpha-male hauling the little woman over his shoulder" routine. Was hoping for the storyline to improve. But then he basically stalks the heroine, gets handsy, and even straight-out propositions her a couple times. This is meant to seem sexy but comes off as creepy (especially when he implies that having relations with him might help her get her articles published. This is ambiguously written, but no joke, it's what he's implying). Of course, he's gorgeous and the heroine is naturally drawn to him--so she doesn't perceive it as creepy at all. Ugh.
The heroine, who seemed reasonable and rational early in the story, decides to throw caution to the wind for nights of passion, and suddenly the hero is completely smitten by a woman he barely knows and sometimes doesn't seem to care that much for. I just didn't buy their bond for each other.
Now on to...
Questions (may contain spoilers):
--Why is the heroine so completely nasty to the hero when she finds out about his engagement? She has a reason to be angry, but takes it so far you lose respect for her. Note: Yes, I know, the way she talks to the hero is just fodder to further the plot, supplying justification for the hero not seeking her out sooner. But the weak characterization is disappointing.
--The hero isn't blameless, either. He knows how humiliated and used the heroine felt by a man in her past, and her family has no history of supporting her. But he doesn't tell h he's engaged, and after she finds out, she's supposed to automatically know that he cares for her? (He did have a chance to explain to her how he felt before he went to France, and he blew it.)
--Then the biggie: Why did no one tell the heroine that the hero's engagement fell through? H wrote all these letters to h and never told her? His friend Jesse didn't know? And when Jesse's wife, the heroine's bestie, finally read about it in the papers, she decided not to tell her friend. It makes complete sense that a woman in those days would not have wanted a man to know about their son if she believed him married, and if she had no reason to believe he loved her or even felt committed to her. In those days bastard children were perceived as a threat to inheritances and were ostracized by families. And the hero would have known this. The heroine was doing everything she could to protect her son.
Anyway, I got a little past 2/3 of the way through, when the newlyweds are keeping up their continual finger-pointing. Then H hauls h over his shoulder a second time. And I called it a day.
August 31, 2023
5⭐️
Lady Helen is a self proclaimed spinster who has been writing articles for the London Beacon about all her reformer work. She is very headstrong in her mission to right the wrongs London has given the less fortunate who don’t have a voice. For the past 3 years, she’s been handing over her articles to Mr. Bothwell the owner of the Beacon with no problems. Now she is face to face with the new owner, Levi Storm, a stubborn, arrogant American who Helen instantly butts heads with for letting her go from the Beacon.
Levi Storm grew up on the rough streets of New York. Having learned the hard ways of life early, Levi was determind to get a head in the world. So he worked hard and became a rich self made business man in America who is now expanding his businesses to Europe.
So when an annoying, stubborn blue blooded Lady comes meddling into his new business venture all he can do is toss her over his shoulder and get her out.. literally.
Having never been treated thus, Helen is obviously stunned by this American barbarian— but also, secretly intrigued by him. Leaving her wanting to know more about him— but also strangle him.
When they both come face to face at the home of mutal friends, their clashing sparks fly again. But those sparks form into a slow burn of passion and attraction for one another.
The thing is, Levi is promised to the daughter of one of the richest men in New York. This union will be most beneficial for Levi’s business expansion and status. For he will truly know he’s made it when the deed is done.
But after getting to know Helen and seeing how intelligent and caring she is, Levi cannot keep away from her.
Their love for one another comes in full force, but knowing that he is promised to another, Levi can’t promise Helen anything as he eventually has to go back to New York (not telling Helen at all about his FIANCÉ, bad move, dude). So when Helen discovers the truth about it, she’s broken. She’s been falling in love with him and she can clearly tell he is too. Having banished him from ever seeing her again, they part ways on bad terms….
Fast forward one year— I gasped when I saw that! I was expecting him to come back to her quicker! Helen was left with something from Levi.. a child. Knowing that he was to be wed to another, Helen kept her condition from Levi.
Well, as you can guess — he was PISSSSED when he eventually did find out. (F U dude)
Anyways— to wrap it up, it was a tumultuous ending but they eventually found their way back to one another.
Ooooo I loved this one! Not a whole lot of action like most of Scarlett’s other stories but this was a hit! First off. What the hell, Levi?! He should’ve let her know he had a fiancé from the jump! I understand it was a business arrangement on both sides, but dude, ya fucked up! I can totally see why Helen didn’t bother mentioning she was pregs cause he was set to be married?!! What was she gonna do?? Message him and be like “congrats on the nuptials, btw ya have a son!” Noo??? She didn’t know he wasn’t married— and it took him a full year to come back since he DIDNT marry the other girl. Sir, you deserved all her scorn and more. Buuuuuuut he really did love her🥹 and they’re time together was cuteeee
5/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lady Helen is a self proclaimed spinster who has been writing articles for the London Beacon about all her reformer work. She is very headstrong in her mission to right the wrongs London has given the less fortunate who don’t have a voice. For the past 3 years, she’s been handing over her articles to Mr. Bothwell the owner of the Beacon with no problems. Now she is face to face with the new owner, Levi Storm, a stubborn, arrogant American who Helen instantly butts heads with for letting her go from the Beacon.
Levi Storm grew up on the rough streets of New York. Having learned the hard ways of life early, Levi was determind to get a head in the world. So he worked hard and became a rich self made business man in America who is now expanding his businesses to Europe.
So when an annoying, stubborn blue blooded Lady comes meddling into his new business venture all he can do is toss her over his shoulder and get her out.. literally.
Having never been treated thus, Helen is obviously stunned by this American barbarian— but also, secretly intrigued by him. Leaving her wanting to know more about him— but also strangle him.
When they both come face to face at the home of mutal friends, their clashing sparks fly again. But those sparks form into a slow burn of passion and attraction for one another.
The thing is, Levi is promised to the daughter of one of the richest men in New York. This union will be most beneficial for Levi’s business expansion and status. For he will truly know he’s made it when the deed is done.
But after getting to know Helen and seeing how intelligent and caring she is, Levi cannot keep away from her.
Their love for one another comes in full force, but knowing that he is promised to another, Levi can’t promise Helen anything as he eventually has to go back to New York (not telling Helen at all about his FIANCÉ, bad move, dude). So when Helen discovers the truth about it, she’s broken. She’s been falling in love with him and she can clearly tell he is too. Having banished him from ever seeing her again, they part ways on bad terms….
Fast forward one year— I gasped when I saw that! I was expecting him to come back to her quicker! Helen was left with something from Levi.. a child. Knowing that he was to be wed to another, Helen kept her condition from Levi.
Well, as you can guess — he was PISSSSED when he eventually did find out. (F U dude)
Anyways— to wrap it up, it was a tumultuous ending but they eventually found their way back to one another.
Ooooo I loved this one! Not a whole lot of action like most of Scarlett’s other stories but this was a hit! First off. What the hell, Levi?! He should’ve let her know he had a fiancé from the jump! I understand it was a business arrangement on both sides, but dude, ya fucked up! I can totally see why Helen didn’t bother mentioning she was pregs cause he was set to be married?!! What was she gonna do?? Message him and be like “congrats on the nuptials, btw ya have a son!” Noo??? She didn’t know he wasn’t married— and it took him a full year to come back since he DIDNT marry the other girl. Sir, you deserved all her scorn and more. Buuuuuuut he really did love her🥹 and they’re time together was cuteeee
5/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2017
4.5 Stars!
From the moment she walks into his newly purchased newspaper, she challenged him. She was confused by his presence, and disheartened to learn that her services were no longer needed. She put up as much a fight as a lady could, and despite his busy schedule, he couldn’t help but to notice her while he was ceremoniously trying to get rid of her. Notice her beauty, her determination, her strength. He was intrigued, but business came first; so instead of taking the time to get to know her and better understand why she was refusing to leave without answers, he escorted her out the door and went about his business. But not before retrieving the hat that had fallen from her head and vowing to return it. His excuse, of course, to seek her out later when he had more time.
Helen found the man insufferable, rude, and just plain mean. His handsome looks didn’t help matters. It also didn’t help to find out he was the good friend of Jesse, (the husband of her sisters’s sister-in-law; the people with whom she resided), and he would be having dinner with them that evening. Their constant bickering had a flirtatious undertone that only they were blind to. They denied they even liked each other – which in some ways were true- but their attraction was too strong to successfully hide. They eventually gave in when they discovered the “nice” side of each other; and it’s pure heaven for them and the readers. Scott does a wonderful job with description and dialogue. Each scene is easily envisioned, and Levi is naughty in a charming way. I loved reading what he had to say, and Helen did a great job holding her own. Even though Levi held a secret that should make someone totally dislike him, it’s hard to. He didn’t set out to deceive her in any way, and my heart went out to him – to them both. He had choices to make, but thanks to his upbringing he often found it difficult to separate business from personal. To him, they were one and the same. It was obvious they cared deeply for each other, but emotions can often lead to bad decisions, especially emotions as strong as these two felt. Kudos for Scott for portraying them so vividly.
Although Helen had good reasons to hold on to her anger, I became just a smidgen perturbed by her towards the end. I was about ready to pull out a hair or two, but luckily it didn’t get to that. I adored Bella and Jesse (the people she lived with) and her sisters – the bit we get of them – and I want to read more about them all.
From the moment she walks into his newly purchased newspaper, she challenged him. She was confused by his presence, and disheartened to learn that her services were no longer needed. She put up as much a fight as a lady could, and despite his busy schedule, he couldn’t help but to notice her while he was ceremoniously trying to get rid of her. Notice her beauty, her determination, her strength. He was intrigued, but business came first; so instead of taking the time to get to know her and better understand why she was refusing to leave without answers, he escorted her out the door and went about his business. But not before retrieving the hat that had fallen from her head and vowing to return it. His excuse, of course, to seek her out later when he had more time.
Helen found the man insufferable, rude, and just plain mean. His handsome looks didn’t help matters. It also didn’t help to find out he was the good friend of Jesse, (the husband of her sisters’s sister-in-law; the people with whom she resided), and he would be having dinner with them that evening. Their constant bickering had a flirtatious undertone that only they were blind to. They denied they even liked each other – which in some ways were true- but their attraction was too strong to successfully hide. They eventually gave in when they discovered the “nice” side of each other; and it’s pure heaven for them and the readers. Scott does a wonderful job with description and dialogue. Each scene is easily envisioned, and Levi is naughty in a charming way. I loved reading what he had to say, and Helen did a great job holding her own. Even though Levi held a secret that should make someone totally dislike him, it’s hard to. He didn’t set out to deceive her in any way, and my heart went out to him – to them both. He had choices to make, but thanks to his upbringing he often found it difficult to separate business from personal. To him, they were one and the same. It was obvious they cared deeply for each other, but emotions can often lead to bad decisions, especially emotions as strong as these two felt. Kudos for Scott for portraying them so vividly.
Although Helen had good reasons to hold on to her anger, I became just a smidgen perturbed by her towards the end. I was about ready to pull out a hair or two, but luckily it didn’t get to that. I adored Bella and Jesse (the people she lived with) and her sisters – the bit we get of them – and I want to read more about them all.
July 10, 2023
The Lady and The Tycoon
Lady Helen Harrington, daughter of an Earl was more than serious about reform, even when it came to laws that wouldn’t even talk about the subject in newspapers.
Levi Storm was an American business tycoon who bought the newspaper Helen had been publishing her reform articles in and refused to publish anymore referencing the decency laws.
Levi was so taken by the lovely lady Helen that when her little confection of a hat was left behind, he felt the need to keep it as a souvenir.
Both Helen and Levi were startled to find they were both staying at the home of mutual friends, and before long they realize there is admiration between them and maybe something harder to ignore.
This was a nice story of humble beginnings to riches and silver spoons given up to greater causes, and loves thought lost that are found again.
Lady Helen Harrington, daughter of an Earl was more than serious about reform, even when it came to laws that wouldn’t even talk about the subject in newspapers.
Levi Storm was an American business tycoon who bought the newspaper Helen had been publishing her reform articles in and refused to publish anymore referencing the decency laws.
Levi was so taken by the lovely lady Helen that when her little confection of a hat was left behind, he felt the need to keep it as a souvenir.
Both Helen and Levi were startled to find they were both staying at the home of mutual friends, and before long they realize there is admiration between them and maybe something harder to ignore.
This was a nice story of humble beginnings to riches and silver spoons given up to greater causes, and loves thought lost that are found again.
July 1, 2018
I have loved this whole series & this one was so much fun - the humor, witticisms, romance, love, spicy & a bumpy journey to HEA made this a great book to read! Lady Helen, is a strong, beautiful feisty, reformer & a self declared spinster at 30 years of age. Levi Storm is tall, dark & handsome, wealthy American who has made himself a respected business man. I also enjoyed her sisters & Bella returning from the previous books. Levi & Helen have a fantastic love for one another - now if they can only get past there own doubts, fears & misunderstandings.I highly recommend this read to all historical romance lovers (know that there are a few spicy bedroom scenes).
October 6, 2019
Definitely passionate arguments
I generally always like spitfire arguments between H/h, and pregnancy mistakes and marriage of convenience stories but this one's will they or won't they and constantly leading up to giving in/forgiving/what have you without something happening was just too much crying wolf without resolution. A bit over drawn out over angst. Also maybe didn't like heroine - she wasn't overly self absorbed, she just was not as empathetic or caring about what's going on in H's mind. 6.5/10 on sex-o-meter. Really should be lower just for how many times we are led on to then be nothing doing before and after the big fight. 3.5
I generally always like spitfire arguments between H/h, and pregnancy mistakes and marriage of convenience stories but this one's will they or won't they and constantly leading up to giving in/forgiving/what have you without something happening was just too much crying wolf without resolution. A bit over drawn out over angst. Also maybe didn't like heroine - she wasn't overly self absorbed, she just was not as empathetic or caring about what's going on in H's mind. 6.5/10 on sex-o-meter. Really should be lower just for how many times we are led on to then be nothing doing before and after the big fight. 3.5
March 13, 2024
This was 3.5. I liked the characters and the story. My biggest gripe is that they barely knew each other! They were in love when they’d known each other for about a week and had sex twice? Also why would she be that angry about the betrothal? They didn’t make any promises to each other.
But def my biggest issue was the timing. So strange. This timing thing has been an issue throughout the series, but this was just egregious.
Also, the thing with her brother’s friend was beyond strange. There’s no reason why she couldn’t marry after that. It would be one thing if the guy told everyone, but she could’ve easily just married. So weird.
But def my biggest issue was the timing. So strange. This timing thing has been an issue throughout the series, but this was just egregious.
Also, the thing with her brother’s friend was beyond strange. There’s no reason why she couldn’t marry after that. It would be one thing if the guy told everyone, but she could’ve easily just married. So weird.
February 14, 2019
A Very Miss Matched Couple.
A couple that did not seem to ever suit, to make a match. Clara and Julian, both came from a very damaging beginning. They got together for all the wrong reasons, for a very rocky journey. It seemed doomed from the beginning. After a lot of problems, and some steamy parts, it ended with HEA. I have enjoyed this whole series, I think better if read in order. I recommend this, and other books written by this author.
A couple that did not seem to ever suit, to make a match. Clara and Julian, both came from a very damaging beginning. They got together for all the wrong reasons, for a very rocky journey. It seemed doomed from the beginning. After a lot of problems, and some steamy parts, it ended with HEA. I have enjoyed this whole series, I think better if read in order. I recommend this, and other books written by this author.
January 31, 2021
Wonderful Love Story
Really enjoyed this book. I have enjoyed all the book series but this one stands out. The love shown between the characters is very well written, so much so you don't want the book to end. Levi is written as a strong man, but also not afraid to love. Helen also strong but not afraid to stand her ground. They find and hold on to love through out the trials they face. Well written!
Really enjoyed this book. I have enjoyed all the book series but this one stands out. The love shown between the characters is very well written, so much so you don't want the book to end. Levi is written as a strong man, but also not afraid to love. Helen also strong but not afraid to stand her ground. They find and hold on to love through out the trials they face. Well written!
August 15, 2022
Excellent.
This book surprised me in all the best ways.
While definitely a spicy romance, some tough issues of the period were openly discussed. Young women and girls being forced into prostitution was and still is a problem. The author blended it seamlessly into the story. Also, the very frank and real look at Mr. Thomas Edison.
These books have well written sex scenes in them. She writes them into all of her books. Do not penalize an author by leaving a bad review.
This book surprised me in all the best ways.
While definitely a spicy romance, some tough issues of the period were openly discussed. Young women and girls being forced into prostitution was and still is a problem. The author blended it seamlessly into the story. Also, the very frank and real look at Mr. Thomas Edison.
These books have well written sex scenes in them. She writes them into all of her books. Do not penalize an author by leaving a bad review.
April 5, 2025
2 Stars
5/10 Personal Rating
Cute, I guess.
I thought the pacing a bit slow, and although I respect the characters, I found them to be frustrating at times. Their dynamic was to be expected, still, I wished they would've gotten along a bit more throughout the book. For most of the time, they were repeating the same few arguments. I did like their drive and passions for their interests/business though. I thought the character change in Helen after a bit… unnecessary, frustrating? In the way it was done. I thought she'd at least Personal opinion. I also thought their conflict would take place when
I liked their communication in bed though. They kind of talked more and better in bed than anywhere else LOL. Was alright, though nothing I'd read again. I kind of wanted to quickly finish it. I wonder if the problem was that I had some kind-of expectations? Some few I guess. Whatever, it's good. It just wasn't great for me.
2/5
5/10
Read from 28.03.2025 to 29.03.2025.
Review written 29.03.2025.
(European dates used)
5/10 Personal Rating
Cute, I guess.
I thought the pacing a bit slow, and although I respect the characters, I found them to be frustrating at times. Their dynamic was to be expected, still, I wished they would've gotten along a bit more throughout the book. For most of the time, they were repeating the same few arguments. I did like their drive and passions for their interests/business though. I thought the character change in Helen after a bit… unnecessary, frustrating? In the way it was done. I thought she'd at least Personal opinion. I also thought their conflict would take place when
I liked their communication in bed though. They kind of talked more and better in bed than anywhere else LOL. Was alright, though nothing I'd read again. I kind of wanted to quickly finish it. I wonder if the problem was that I had some kind-of expectations? Some few I guess. Whatever, it's good. It just wasn't great for me.
2/5
5/10
Read from 28.03.2025 to 29.03.2025.
Review written 29.03.2025.
(European dates used)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2026
A Wonderful & Romantic Story.
This Story was Entertaining & Romantic
A stubborn & strong willed heroine who refuses to let anyone bend her to their will.
A hero who learned how to survive & succeed from a young age, doesn't know how to mix business with love.
Helen & Levi were Wonderfu & Delightful characters.
I am looking forward to reading "Restless Rake" in the next book in this series.
This Story was Entertaining & Romantic
A stubborn & strong willed heroine who refuses to let anyone bend her to their will.
A hero who learned how to survive & succeed from a young age, doesn't know how to mix business with love.
Helen & Levi were Wonderfu & Delightful characters.
I am looking forward to reading "Restless Rake" in the next book in this series.
September 26, 2018
Good read
Scarlett Scott is quickly becoming one of my favorite romance authors. Her stories so far have all had different twists and I don’t feel like I’m reading the same story over and over. Plus I like the hint of bad boy in these hearts temptation heroes. A few editing errors, but still I can’t stop reading.
Scarlett Scott is quickly becoming one of my favorite romance authors. Her stories so far have all had different twists and I don’t feel like I’m reading the same story over and over. Plus I like the hint of bad boy in these hearts temptation heroes. A few editing errors, but still I can’t stop reading.
May 5, 2019
Pride goes before a baby
Helen is older a spinster and firmly on the shelf! Levi is an American self made millionaire! Levi was raised in abject poverty Helen was raised in luxury the two were a very unlikely pair! Chemistry, lust and bad timing separated this pair! Love of meddling relatives and a secret brought them together!
Helen is older a spinster and firmly on the shelf! Levi is an American self made millionaire! Levi was raised in abject poverty Helen was raised in luxury the two were a very unlikely pair! Chemistry, lust and bad timing separated this pair! Love of meddling relatives and a secret brought them together!
August 5, 2019
What a great read
I have now read this whole series and it is fabulous. This is by far my favorite in the series. What a great love story. Him never even knowing what love is, and her hurt so badly by the brother who should have love her. The two of them coming together was beautiful. Going to look for more from this author noe.
I have now read this whole series and it is fabulous. This is by far my favorite in the series. What a great love story. Him never even knowing what love is, and her hurt so badly by the brother who should have love her. The two of them coming together was beautiful. Going to look for more from this author noe.
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