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Scandalous Sons #1
And the Widow Wore Scarlet
Discover a heart-warming romance, a thrilling mystery and an exciting journey for two people who never thought to find love. Meet the first Scandalous Son and the woman who tames him in this new series by Adele Clee.
A chance meeting changed everything.
Damian Wycliff, the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck—and notorious rogue—loathes most people. With a heart as dark as his Mediterranean looks, his cynical view of the world is challenged when a woman comes to his aid in a dark alley. In his world, kindness is a rare quality. Was that why he made the rash oath, a sworn promise to play the knight errant should she ever need assistance?
The lady calls in the debt.
Having spent three years wondering what happened to his mysterious saviour, Damian is horrified to discover the angel who saved his life is none other than the scandalous Scarlet Widow—a lady he should despise along with the other fake people who hide behind masks. So why can he not shake the memory of the sweet woman whose benevolence touched his heart? Why is he desperate to discover if she still exists beneath the daring disguise?
A promise never forgotten.
Someone wants Scarlett Steele dead. After surviving the numerous attempts made on her life, she no longer knows who to trust. But one man made a vow—a solemn promise to come to her aid. So when she seeks the help of the devilishly handsome Damian Wycliff, it soon becomes apparent that she isn’t the only one hiding behind a façade.
Does Wycliff possess the means to save her if the villain strikes again?
Will lowering their guards give them both a chance of finding true love?
This book contains steamy sex scenes and the occasional use of obscenities.
A chance meeting changed everything.
Damian Wycliff, the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck—and notorious rogue—loathes most people. With a heart as dark as his Mediterranean looks, his cynical view of the world is challenged when a woman comes to his aid in a dark alley. In his world, kindness is a rare quality. Was that why he made the rash oath, a sworn promise to play the knight errant should she ever need assistance?
The lady calls in the debt.
Having spent three years wondering what happened to his mysterious saviour, Damian is horrified to discover the angel who saved his life is none other than the scandalous Scarlet Widow—a lady he should despise along with the other fake people who hide behind masks. So why can he not shake the memory of the sweet woman whose benevolence touched his heart? Why is he desperate to discover if she still exists beneath the daring disguise?
A promise never forgotten.
Someone wants Scarlett Steele dead. After surviving the numerous attempts made on her life, she no longer knows who to trust. But one man made a vow—a solemn promise to come to her aid. So when she seeks the help of the devilishly handsome Damian Wycliff, it soon becomes apparent that she isn’t the only one hiding behind a façade.
Does Wycliff possess the means to save her if the villain strikes again?
Will lowering their guards give them both a chance of finding true love?
This book contains steamy sex scenes and the occasional use of obscenities.
252 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2019
877 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Adele Clee
54 books531 followersAdele Clee writes historical romance mysteries set in the early nineteenth century. Her stories blend romance with intrigue, gothic atmosphere, and a touch of scandal, often unfolding in Regency and early Victorian London. Readers praise her scarred heroines, brooding heroes, and the way love and mystery intertwine across each series.
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
August 30, 2019
Damian Wycliff, the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck and Scarlett Steele aka the Scarlet Widow first met as Damian bled out in a dark dirt filled alley, 3 years later Scarlett searches Damian out in order to collect on the oath he made her when she saved his life – someone is set on ending Scarlett’s life and she needs Damian’s protection and help in locating the would-be murderer.
Both Damian and Scarlett have constructed intricately woven personas that shield them from the world and the Ton, as well as concealing the scars both live with, scars that have them wary of the feelings they have for one another, but their connection is one they can only silence for so long. As a couple, they work fabulously, both have endured much in different ways. The moments of vulnerability that Damian has when in the presence of Scarlett tugged at my heart, and the flaws the author has given the two make them all that more human and real.
The pacing of this story was well done, plus the attraction/heat, tension and angst between Damian and Scarlett simmered of the page wonderfully.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU (will be purchasing when price drops).
Both Damian and Scarlett have constructed intricately woven personas that shield them from the world and the Ton, as well as concealing the scars both live with, scars that have them wary of the feelings they have for one another, but their connection is one they can only silence for so long. As a couple, they work fabulously, both have endured much in different ways. The moments of vulnerability that Damian has when in the presence of Scarlett tugged at my heart, and the flaws the author has given the two make them all that more human and real.
The pacing of this story was well done, plus the attraction/heat, tension and angst between Damian and Scarlett simmered of the page wonderfully.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU (will be purchasing when price drops).
July 28, 2019
"Mother, if you are watching from your heavenly plane, do something to save your errant son." The words lacked conviction, for he did not believe that the power of love could work miracles.
He did not believe in the power of love at all. --Damian
This was another outstanding novel from the amazing Adele Clee, who has quickly become one of my favorite HR authors. Adele's stories are filled with so much heart, while her characters are flawed and far from perfect yet still capable of branding your soul, and this novel was no different.
Both Scarlett and Damian are broken and beaten souls, determined to hide behind the personas they have cultivated in order to shield their hearts from more pain and heartache. While Scarlett wears the physical evidence of her trauma like a protective armor, Damian's scars are less prominent but just as raw. They have both created impenetrable masks that work to ward off anyone from getting too close and to protect their vulnerable selves from suffering further damage by the savage ton. However after they find their way back to each other due to a binding oath made by Damian and murderous attempts made on Scarlett's life, they are reminded of the one time they were truly vulnerable and that they may just find the salvation they have been yearning for in each other.
I absolutely LOVE this trope--one of the MCs lives are in danger and only the hero/heroine can help save them, even though they have previous misconceptions/prejudices against them--and Adele executed it so well. The pacing was perfect, the attraction and angst and denial between the two MCs was electric, and the danger and numerous twists added a nice background to the story. I would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy HRs with an emotional storyline, murder-mystery subplot, a broody and tortured but sweet hero, and a strong and kind heroine.
My Damian and Scarlett, both able to finally let their masks slip and just be....
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 3, 2020
DNF at 40%.
I'm at this stage of my life that if something doesn't grip me by almost half way of the book and I don't see the potential that it could, I am simply just putting it down. Maybe it's just that time of the month? Well, all I know it did not excite me or enchant me like I wish it did.
I'm at this stage of my life that if something doesn't grip me by almost half way of the book and I don't see the potential that it could, I am simply just putting it down. Maybe it's just that time of the month? Well, all I know it did not excite me or enchant me like I wish it did.
June 15, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Totally addictive and thoroughly satisfying.
That would be my immediate response to this book .
A new series, with a first book that will blow you away , a plot that will leave your head spinning as to the perpetrator, and a cast of characters whose affection for each other will leave you weak at the knees .
The scarlet widow is a woman who has a persona that many would like to uncover , and a body many men want to bed .
Her secrets known only to herself , soon to be given to the only man she feels she can trust with her life , Wycliffe.
He’s the bastard son of a Marquess. A man so perfect in looks and body he can choose any woman as his next conquest , he’s a rake and a rogue , but his heart is cold and belongs to no one but himself.
Unless you count the woman who nursed him after a near deadly attack . Scarlet, that was her name , he gave her his word her would return to help her if ever she called , she never did .
Years later , he’s asked to fulfill that pledge , but who’s asking , and will he go to her aid .
This is a brilliant story and I highly recommend it to everyone. I loved every page , the emotional and physical pain these two must experience before they find their HEA is heartbreaking, but it’s not all doom and gloom there are some lighthearted moments too , I must say Adele’s books are getting better with every series .
I’m seriously looking forward to the next instalment , Trent and Cavanagh will have some great stories.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Totally addictive and thoroughly satisfying.
That would be my immediate response to this book .
A new series, with a first book that will blow you away , a plot that will leave your head spinning as to the perpetrator, and a cast of characters whose affection for each other will leave you weak at the knees .
The scarlet widow is a woman who has a persona that many would like to uncover , and a body many men want to bed .
Her secrets known only to herself , soon to be given to the only man she feels she can trust with her life , Wycliffe.
He’s the bastard son of a Marquess. A man so perfect in looks and body he can choose any woman as his next conquest , he’s a rake and a rogue , but his heart is cold and belongs to no one but himself.
Unless you count the woman who nursed him after a near deadly attack . Scarlet, that was her name , he gave her his word her would return to help her if ever she called , she never did .
Years later , he’s asked to fulfill that pledge , but who’s asking , and will he go to her aid .
This is a brilliant story and I highly recommend it to everyone. I loved every page , the emotional and physical pain these two must experience before they find their HEA is heartbreaking, but it’s not all doom and gloom there are some lighthearted moments too , I must say Adele’s books are getting better with every series .
I’m seriously looking forward to the next instalment , Trent and Cavanagh will have some great stories.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
April 16, 2021
This was just fine. This was just an average historical romance and I really don't mean that in a bad way. A three star rating me me is a rating for that just sort of average romance that I still enjoy for the most part. I did have some issues with this. I don't think we ever really learned how Scarlett got her scarlet widow reputation that would cause people to bet very large amounts of money on who could sleep with her first. I also wish we had learned more about the backstories of both Scarlett and Damien. We know Scarlett was an actress and Damien is a bastard but not a lot else. Overall, this was fine and I definitely would read more by this author but I was left wanting a bit more.
June 30, 2019
Oh this was a nice surprise ... relationship between H and h was really lovely ... definitely worth reading ... they both have scars and they both work to overcome them ... h is very brave and there is no denying that both of them fell in love much when they initially met ...
look forward to other books in this series ...
look forward to other books in this series ...
June 17, 2019
Since she saved his life three years ago after a terrible beating, the notorious Damian Wycliff has never quite forgotten Scarlett. Now Lady Scarlett Steele and known as the Scarlet Widow, she's sought Damian out to help her, calling in the vow he made to her when she saved him.
Scarlett married the repugnant Lord Steele for his protection from someone who was out for her life, but Damian is incensed that she didn't seek him out instead. When she reappears to ask for his help, reminding him of an oath he made to his beloved, late mother, he finds he cannot refuse.
Damian is much rougher now than he was three years ago, but Scarlett has nowhere else to turn. She asks him to allow her to pose as his mistress whilst he helps her find her would-be murderer. Her connection to Damian will also increase her own notoriety, which can only help her cause.
The more Damian learns, the more complex Scarlett's situation becomes. There are many with a potential motive for wanting her dead and he becomes determined to keep her safe. As the three years worth of longing pent up between them boils to a head, Damian begins to rethink the need to seek revenge against his father, a marquess, for not marrying his actress mother, that has been the motivation of his entire existence up until this point. He begins to wonder if he can truly have the idyllic dream life with Scarlett, but he must first keep her safe.
Damian and Scarlett were both hurt and damaged, hiding their true selves behind the masks they show the world. Damian annoyed me at first with his hypocritical obsession with Scarlett's past as the innocent actress, but soon he simply wanted her for who she was and I liked him more, especially after we started to see more of who he really was as well. It was nice to see these two begin to open up to each other and take a chance on being who the truly were.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to following this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Scarlett married the repugnant Lord Steele for his protection from someone who was out for her life, but Damian is incensed that she didn't seek him out instead. When she reappears to ask for his help, reminding him of an oath he made to his beloved, late mother, he finds he cannot refuse.
Damian is much rougher now than he was three years ago, but Scarlett has nowhere else to turn. She asks him to allow her to pose as his mistress whilst he helps her find her would-be murderer. Her connection to Damian will also increase her own notoriety, which can only help her cause.
The more Damian learns, the more complex Scarlett's situation becomes. There are many with a potential motive for wanting her dead and he becomes determined to keep her safe. As the three years worth of longing pent up between them boils to a head, Damian begins to rethink the need to seek revenge against his father, a marquess, for not marrying his actress mother, that has been the motivation of his entire existence up until this point. He begins to wonder if he can truly have the idyllic dream life with Scarlett, but he must first keep her safe.
Damian and Scarlett were both hurt and damaged, hiding their true selves behind the masks they show the world. Damian annoyed me at first with his hypocritical obsession with Scarlett's past as the innocent actress, but soon he simply wanted her for who she was and I liked him more, especially after we started to see more of who he really was as well. It was nice to see these two begin to open up to each other and take a chance on being who the truly were.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to following this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 13, 2019
Adele Clee is a wonderful Author, I enjoy her Historical Romances.
It starts off with Damien Wycliff the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck, his life has not been an easy. A handsome rogue, one night he is saved by a mysterious lady after being brutally attacked. While recovering, her request for helping him heal, is that if she ever needs his help, he promises to give it.
A few years later, and still thinking about the mystery lady, he is surprised to find her. Or she finds him and she reminds him of his promise to help her. But, at first he is angry to discover who she really is, the scandalous Scarlett Widow.
She needs his protection, because someone is trying to kill her. Sh doesn't know who, so Damien agrees to help. So begins a mystery and suspense to try and find the person/s trying to kill her and why.
In the meantime, their is definitely chemistry, an attraction between them. But, they each are tortured souls. They each confess to each about their past and it just brings them closer in so many ways.
The storyline was well paced, I enjoyed the mystery, danger. Also, their love scenes were sweet.
It starts off with Damien Wycliff the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck, his life has not been an easy. A handsome rogue, one night he is saved by a mysterious lady after being brutally attacked. While recovering, her request for helping him heal, is that if she ever needs his help, he promises to give it.
A few years later, and still thinking about the mystery lady, he is surprised to find her. Or she finds him and she reminds him of his promise to help her. But, at first he is angry to discover who she really is, the scandalous Scarlett Widow.
She needs his protection, because someone is trying to kill her. Sh doesn't know who, so Damien agrees to help. So begins a mystery and suspense to try and find the person/s trying to kill her and why.
In the meantime, their is definitely chemistry, an attraction between them. But, they each are tortured souls. They each confess to each about their past and it just brings them closer in so many ways.
The storyline was well paced, I enjoyed the mystery, danger. Also, their love scenes were sweet.
December 18, 2019
For any lover of historical romance, this novel by Adele Clee is a true delight!
Read full review in the 2019 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 18, 2019
I would read this again. Steamy romance with a mystery of who is trying to kill the widow.
August 20, 2022
This was historical romance at its BEST! I loved Damien and Scarlett. My heart physically hurt, thinking about the one mistimed moment, that changed their course so drastically.
I was riveted trying to figure out the mystery that was central within the story. Every woman needs a rogue and every man needs a scarlet woman.
This was my first read by this author, but will not be my last. I greatly enjoyed this story.
I was riveted trying to figure out the mystery that was central within the story. Every woman needs a rogue and every man needs a scarlet woman.
This was my first read by this author, but will not be my last. I greatly enjoyed this story.
Want to read
February 18, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/18/2021)! 🎁
June 15, 2019
And the Widow Wore Scarlet
Scandalous Sons book 1
by Adele Clee
WOW! Just Wow! This was such an emotional rollercoaster of a story! A gritty second chance at love full of passion, sorrow, betrayals, villains bent on murder, mystery and intrigue, hope, and a love so deep that never dies.
I’m a HUGE fan of Adele Clee her books are keepers, they never disappoint!
As the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck Damian Wycliff has been on a mission of shocking the ton by any scandalous means. Hoping he’ll bring shame to the father that shunned his mother.
So when a young woman comes to his aid and saves him from bleeding to death in an alley, his damaged an broken heart makes a connection with her. He gives her his most sacred possession and tells her that if ever she needs anything from him not to hesitate to ask for his help. Three years later the Scarlet Widow comes to collect on that long ago promise.
Scarlet Steele has spent the last three horrific years of her life in terror, she married a vile abusive man for protection. Once again she fears for her life, someone is trying to kill her and the only man to save her is Damian Wycliff, the man she’s kept close to her heart, the man she should of seekEd out in the first place.
Damian and Scarlet have a rocky beginning but the connection they have is strong, Damian is shocked to see the extent of her pain inflicted by her abusive husband. He steps up to the plate and becomes the man she knows is hiding deep within, the man she fell in love with while tending to his wounds. I wasn’t expecting the identity or the motive of the villain, Adele Clee really kept me guessing.
I enjoyed the plot tremendously, definitely a page turner, the secondary characters were interesting and can’t wait to read all about their story. I wonder who is putting the fresh flowers on the grave? And why? I’m so anticipating the next amazing story in this PHENOMENAL new series!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
Scandalous Sons book 1
by Adele Clee
WOW! Just Wow! This was such an emotional rollercoaster of a story! A gritty second chance at love full of passion, sorrow, betrayals, villains bent on murder, mystery and intrigue, hope, and a love so deep that never dies.
I’m a HUGE fan of Adele Clee her books are keepers, they never disappoint!
As the illegitimate son of the Marquis of Blackbeck Damian Wycliff has been on a mission of shocking the ton by any scandalous means. Hoping he’ll bring shame to the father that shunned his mother.
So when a young woman comes to his aid and saves him from bleeding to death in an alley, his damaged an broken heart makes a connection with her. He gives her his most sacred possession and tells her that if ever she needs anything from him not to hesitate to ask for his help. Three years later the Scarlet Widow comes to collect on that long ago promise.
Scarlet Steele has spent the last three horrific years of her life in terror, she married a vile abusive man for protection. Once again she fears for her life, someone is trying to kill her and the only man to save her is Damian Wycliff, the man she’s kept close to her heart, the man she should of seekEd out in the first place.
Damian and Scarlet have a rocky beginning but the connection they have is strong, Damian is shocked to see the extent of her pain inflicted by her abusive husband. He steps up to the plate and becomes the man she knows is hiding deep within, the man she fell in love with while tending to his wounds. I wasn’t expecting the identity or the motive of the villain, Adele Clee really kept me guessing.
I enjoyed the plot tremendously, definitely a page turner, the secondary characters were interesting and can’t wait to read all about their story. I wonder who is putting the fresh flowers on the grave? And why? I’m so anticipating the next amazing story in this PHENOMENAL new series!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
June 16, 2019
Perfect!! Exactly what a romantic suspense story set in London, 1823 should be!! One of my very favorite authors, Adele Clee brilliantly creates a story with all of the facets of intrigue, suspense, fear and two characters who wrap around your heart. Both need love and redemption and they just might find it if given the chance.
She saved him from dying three years ago when he had been beaten by men with no idea who had sent them. The angel's name was Scarlett and all he knew was that she was an actress but had not been always been as he heard good breeding in her voice. When he was well and could go, he left her with a solemn promise that if she ever needed him he swore on an oath to offer assistance.
That time came three years later when she seeked him out and called his in his debt to her. But now she is know as the Scarlett Widow after marrying an old man and being a challenge to every man alive. He had not much use for that although he was the bastard son of a Marquess who reveled in being a rogue and looking only for pleasure.
Wow, these two are explosive and filled with so much hurt and pain that my only hope was they could heal each other. The road to the last page is a tense one at times but also there is some lightness. I cannot wait to read more in this new series by this fabulous storyteller who always wraps her stories around my heart!
She saved him from dying three years ago when he had been beaten by men with no idea who had sent them. The angel's name was Scarlett and all he knew was that she was an actress but had not been always been as he heard good breeding in her voice. When he was well and could go, he left her with a solemn promise that if she ever needed him he swore on an oath to offer assistance.
That time came three years later when she seeked him out and called his in his debt to her. But now she is know as the Scarlett Widow after marrying an old man and being a challenge to every man alive. He had not much use for that although he was the bastard son of a Marquess who reveled in being a rogue and looking only for pleasure.
Wow, these two are explosive and filled with so much hurt and pain that my only hope was they could heal each other. The road to the last page is a tense one at times but also there is some lightness. I cannot wait to read more in this new series by this fabulous storyteller who always wraps her stories around my heart!
July 8, 2021
Adele Clee is one of my favorite authors, and she really hits it out of the ballpark with this book! 'And the Widow Wore Scarlet' was such a compelling read!
I loved how Clee builds her characters, especially the H/h; they aren't stock figures from a Regency novel... NO! With her characters, you get complete people, with all of their emotions, quirks, etc.
The element of mystery regarding Scarlett's past was a great component to the story. The overarching romance was sweet and measured, and when it finally came to the sex, it was steamy as all hell. (Okay - an unintentional pun, but I'll roll with it).
I loved reading this, and at the moment I'm stumped in what else I could say. Looking forward to the second book!
5 stars!
I loved how Clee builds her characters, especially the H/h; they aren't stock figures from a Regency novel... NO! With her characters, you get complete people, with all of their emotions, quirks, etc.
The element of mystery regarding Scarlett's past was a great component to the story. The overarching romance was sweet and measured, and when it finally came to the sex, it was steamy as all hell. (Okay - an unintentional pun, but I'll roll with it).
I loved reading this, and at the moment I'm stumped in what else I could say. Looking forward to the second book!
5 stars!
October 10, 2019
Quick Info
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Damian Wycliff
Scarlett Steele
----------------------------------
What happens?
Scarlett Steele saves Damian's life by taking him in after a bad mugging and nursing him back to health. He promises her a favour whenever she needs it.
She finally comes calling after her husband is dead and someone tries to kill her. She plans on using Damian's reputation mixed with hers to make everyone assume she is under his protection so they can work out who is behind the plots.
Final thoughts
This is just boring. The sex is steamy but this just limped along for me. I either love historical romance or they're like this and it just leaves me bored.
Would I read again?: Nope
Would I read this author again?: Maybe
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Damian Wycliff
Scarlett Steele
----------------------------------
What happens?
Scarlett Steele saves Damian's life by taking him in after a bad mugging and nursing him back to health. He promises her a favour whenever she needs it.
She finally comes calling after her husband is dead and someone tries to kill her. She plans on using Damian's reputation mixed with hers to make everyone assume she is under his protection so they can work out who is behind the plots.
Final thoughts
This is just boring. The sex is steamy but this just limped along for me. I either love historical romance or they're like this and it just leaves me bored.
Would I read again?: Nope
Would I read this author again?: Maybe
June 15, 2019
This was an enthralling read, I was captured from the first page. The main characters of Damien Wycliff and Lady Scarlett Steele had much in common. They were both hiding behind a different persona and they were kindred spirits in that, they were two people who lacked love in their lives. There have been several attempts on Scarlett’s life and this storyline will keep you guessing until the end. It also had plenty of passion between the main characters. Damien’s two friends, Benedict Cavanagh and Lawrence Trent seem to be very intriguing men and I look forward to reading their stories. I can’t wait for the next in this new series.
February 23, 2021
“Fighting and fornicating are the only things I know.”
This was...not good. The h and H have a very unpleasant and nonsensical relationship for the first 60% of the book with lots of uncomfortable sniping. The H in particular is atrocious and has a real Madonna/Whore complex about the h.
The writing is...something.
They say the temperature will plummet tonight,” she said, surprised at the depth of desire in her voice. “Body heat is the only way to keep the cold at bay.”
Gathering her courage, Scarlett captured his hand. “Then make love to me, Wycliff. Make love to the lost woman who doesn’t really know who she is.”
This was...not good. The h and H have a very unpleasant and nonsensical relationship for the first 60% of the book with lots of uncomfortable sniping. The H in particular is atrocious and has a real Madonna/Whore complex about the h.
The writing is...something.
They say the temperature will plummet tonight,” she said, surprised at the depth of desire in her voice. “Body heat is the only way to keep the cold at bay.”
Gathering her courage, Scarlett captured his hand. “Then make love to me, Wycliff. Make love to the lost woman who doesn’t really know who she is.”
February 3, 2021
I'm a fan of this author and I don't DNF many books. On the other hand, I won't force myself to finish something I don't like. This was a DNF for me. Clee's best books leave out the overdone, snarly angst that is usually a plot device weaker writers use to keep couples apart. In particular, I like her Gentlemen of the Order series (I read two of those books in two days). I think Clee was trying for something darker here, but it didn't work for me.
The book begins promisingly, with Damien Wycliff, an illegitimate son of a marquis, being attacked and left to die in an alley. He's saved by an actress, Scarlett Steele, who is barely making ends meet. She nurses him back to health, and while you don't sense a lot of heat between them, they form a bit of a connection over the period of a few days. He gives her his card and lets her know that she can contact him if she's ever in dire straits.
The plot abruptly moves ahead 3 years. In the interim, Scarlett managed to marry a member of the Ton, who was a nasty, abusive piece of work. Since his death, she has become known as the Scarlett Widow. Before she married, Wycliff sporadically left food and kindling at her doorstep to help her survive. Now, she is trying to track him down to call in his favor. Someone is trying to kill her, and she needs to find out who.
The problem I have is with the hero. After 3 years, he seems to have become a degenerate. Yes, rakes are a staple of regencies, but when Scarlett finds him, he is about to have sex with a woman in full view of his friends (it's connected to vengeance he's seeking against his biological father, of course). When Scarlett explains to him what has happened to her, instead of showing compassion, he's derisive, as if he's a paragon of ethical behavior.
Wycliff's attitude made little sense to me. Scarlett may have been naive and duped into marriage, but there is no indication she could have turned to him to protect her 24/7. It wasn't as if there had been a promise of love between them. He behaves like a jealous, heartbroken lover, but why? He and Scarlett barely had time to speak to each other while he was feverish and unconscious. I think that's what this story was missing for me--what if the 3 years hadn't been so abruptly skipped over? What if Wycliff had been portrayed as developing real feelings for her, had at least written to her and tried to talk to her, but she was terrified of falling in love with him and pushed him away? That would have made more sense.
As it stands, if Wycliff had deigned to make Scarlett his mistress after she saved him, there was no assurance, based on his apparent treatment of women, that it would have been a long-term relationship. Being a mistress in those days wasn't particularly glamorous and you could be discarded as soon as you lost your looks or irritated the man keeping you.
Anywho...some snarly ripostes are leveled back and forth at a party, Scarlett feels hot and bothered by Wycliff but I still really didn't feel the heat. Secondary characters are stereotypes. Suspects start to emerge and you feel even more sorry for Scarlett, but Wycliff just comes across as snotty through the 30% point, which is as far as I read. Scarlett comments that the party was a waste of time and it was hard for me to disagree. I think I just don't have the patience for cold alphas and meandering plots.
If you're picky about these things (I'm not, but different strokes):
--Language (as far as I read) was PG-13 rated.
--Didn't get to sex scenes between H/h, but there is a sexual promiscuity.
In other words, this is not a sweet and clean book.
I'll move on to other books by Clee.
The book begins promisingly, with Damien Wycliff, an illegitimate son of a marquis, being attacked and left to die in an alley. He's saved by an actress, Scarlett Steele, who is barely making ends meet. She nurses him back to health, and while you don't sense a lot of heat between them, they form a bit of a connection over the period of a few days. He gives her his card and lets her know that she can contact him if she's ever in dire straits.
The plot abruptly moves ahead 3 years. In the interim, Scarlett managed to marry a member of the Ton, who was a nasty, abusive piece of work. Since his death, she has become known as the Scarlett Widow. Before she married, Wycliff sporadically left food and kindling at her doorstep to help her survive. Now, she is trying to track him down to call in his favor. Someone is trying to kill her, and she needs to find out who.
The problem I have is with the hero. After 3 years, he seems to have become a degenerate. Yes, rakes are a staple of regencies, but when Scarlett finds him, he is about to have sex with a woman in full view of his friends (it's connected to vengeance he's seeking against his biological father, of course). When Scarlett explains to him what has happened to her, instead of showing compassion, he's derisive, as if he's a paragon of ethical behavior.
Wycliff's attitude made little sense to me. Scarlett may have been naive and duped into marriage, but there is no indication she could have turned to him to protect her 24/7. It wasn't as if there had been a promise of love between them. He behaves like a jealous, heartbroken lover, but why? He and Scarlett barely had time to speak to each other while he was feverish and unconscious. I think that's what this story was missing for me--what if the 3 years hadn't been so abruptly skipped over? What if Wycliff had been portrayed as developing real feelings for her, had at least written to her and tried to talk to her, but she was terrified of falling in love with him and pushed him away? That would have made more sense.
As it stands, if Wycliff had deigned to make Scarlett his mistress after she saved him, there was no assurance, based on his apparent treatment of women, that it would have been a long-term relationship. Being a mistress in those days wasn't particularly glamorous and you could be discarded as soon as you lost your looks or irritated the man keeping you.
Anywho...some snarly ripostes are leveled back and forth at a party, Scarlett feels hot and bothered by Wycliff but I still really didn't feel the heat. Secondary characters are stereotypes. Suspects start to emerge and you feel even more sorry for Scarlett, but Wycliff just comes across as snotty through the 30% point, which is as far as I read. Scarlett comments that the party was a waste of time and it was hard for me to disagree. I think I just don't have the patience for cold alphas and meandering plots.
If you're picky about these things (I'm not, but different strokes):
--Language (as far as I read) was PG-13 rated.
--Didn't get to sex scenes between H/h, but there is a sexual promiscuity.
In other words, this is not a sweet and clean book.
I'll move on to other books by Clee.
May 22, 2021
The Devil👹 Protects His Own🐺🍆⛲👊💪🔪
ADULT Alpha Male Regency Romance 💕and Mystery Adventure💀
Damian 🐺🍆⛲👊💪🔪, the illegitimate rakish son of a Marquess , has several serious and bloody attempts on his life. He has nine lives but has only used six! Who wants him dead?💀
He is saved by the Scarlett Widow,💃💋💔 when she finds him near death in an alley near her rooms. She has her own problems, being the abused widow of Lord Steele. Her back forever bears the scars of his attentions.
This is a very interesting and well written ADULT Romance and mystery💀. It's well worth reading!
ADULT Alpha Male Regency Romance 💕and Mystery Adventure💀
Damian 🐺🍆⛲👊💪🔪, the illegitimate rakish son of a Marquess , has several serious and bloody attempts on his life. He has nine lives but has only used six! Who wants him dead?💀
He is saved by the Scarlett Widow,💃💋💔 when she finds him near death in an alley near her rooms. She has her own problems, being the abused widow of Lord Steele. Her back forever bears the scars of his attentions.
This is a very interesting and well written ADULT Romance and mystery💀. It's well worth reading!
April 28, 2020
First time reading this author but so glad I did. Beautiful cover and intriguing story. Look forward to the rest of this series!
June 17, 2019
This story is absolutely brilliant and oh, what an amazing start to the Scandalous Sons series! You can't help but feel deeply about the two main characters, Scarlett and Damian. Both have gone through so much and will go through much more yet before finding their HEA.
Damian Wycliff, the bastard son of the Marquis of Blackbeck, is filled with anger and vengeance and doesn't trust anyone. One night he is hurt and finds himself in a dark alley where he is saved by a woman he only knows as Scarlett. He vows to always be there for her if she ever needs anything. After he's recovered, he goes in search for her but she has completely disappeared.
Three years later, Scarlett Steele aka the Scarlet Widow, shows up at Damian's door to ask for his help in finding out who is trying to kill her. Their attraction to each other is still very strong but she has gone through so much in those last 3 years, she vows never to let a man rule or hurt her ever again.
Just when you think you know the answer as to who is out to end her life, the author throws you for a loop! The intrigue and the suspense in the story alone will keep you fully interested. As for the passion between Damian and Scarlett....whoa! lol This is a book I strongly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Damian Wycliff, the bastard son of the Marquis of Blackbeck, is filled with anger and vengeance and doesn't trust anyone. One night he is hurt and finds himself in a dark alley where he is saved by a woman he only knows as Scarlett. He vows to always be there for her if she ever needs anything. After he's recovered, he goes in search for her but she has completely disappeared.
Three years later, Scarlett Steele aka the Scarlet Widow, shows up at Damian's door to ask for his help in finding out who is trying to kill her. Their attraction to each other is still very strong but she has gone through so much in those last 3 years, she vows never to let a man rule or hurt her ever again.
Just when you think you know the answer as to who is out to end her life, the author throws you for a loop! The intrigue and the suspense in the story alone will keep you fully interested. As for the passion between Damian and Scarlett....whoa! lol This is a book I strongly recommend.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 22, 2019
Great
I found this a really good book. Scarlett is a strong character and fiercely independent. When people are trying to kill her though she has to call in a debt from a rogue whom she saved years ago. Damian is a notorious rake who cares nought for appearances but stands by his oath of 4 years prior and intends to help Scarlett.
I found this a really good book. Scarlett is a strong character and fiercely independent. When people are trying to kill her though she has to call in a debt from a rogue whom she saved years ago. Damian is a notorious rake who cares nought for appearances but stands by his oath of 4 years prior and intends to help Scarlett.
February 17, 2020
Confusing and a bit boring
This book was a little all over the place, unrealistic, a bit silly and I found slightly boring. Scarlett achieved too much from her experiences that it just was not believable.
This book was a little all over the place, unrealistic, a bit silly and I found slightly boring. Scarlett achieved too much from her experiences that it just was not believable.
July 27, 2023
I’m actually DNFing at 62%, right before the sex scene, because I don’t feel their connection and I just don’t care about them. I can’t believe the GR rating for this is so high.
March 16, 2021
Almost five stars
What is written on the page is well done. However, there are scenes not included that would have made the story better. If this book were merely a romance, it would have earned five stars, but because there’s a mystery involved, it needs more development.
The clues to solving the threat to the female protagonist are obtained off page for the most part by briefly sketched in secondary characters. There is much that is revealed about her as the story unfolds, as though the author comes up with the ideas as she writes instead of carefully plotting the twists and turns. In spite of the silliness of a wealthy woman seeking the help of a hot man she met once years ago instead of using her own devices and money, the story is enjoyable. Well, except for the part where the female protagonist was severely abused, off page in the past by her deceased husband, and has been nearly murdered, off page numerous times.
If the reader ignores the thinly developed subplots and focuses on just the developing romance between the heroine and hero, it’s a great story. The hero is incredibly handsome, a great kisser, and fun to tease. The two wounded souls find solace and vulnerability with each other, and this makes for a sensual, trust-building journey to the HEA.
There’s some violence, blood, a bit of graphic sex, and visits to brothels, bdsm-type places that are described in passing, as in the characters pass through. There are references to bastard children, mistresses, gambling, drinking, and suicide.
What is written on the page is well done. However, there are scenes not included that would have made the story better. If this book were merely a romance, it would have earned five stars, but because there’s a mystery involved, it needs more development.
The clues to solving the threat to the female protagonist are obtained off page for the most part by briefly sketched in secondary characters. There is much that is revealed about her as the story unfolds, as though the author comes up with the ideas as she writes instead of carefully plotting the twists and turns. In spite of the silliness of a wealthy woman seeking the help of a hot man she met once years ago instead of using her own devices and money, the story is enjoyable. Well, except for the part where the female protagonist was severely abused, off page in the past by her deceased husband, and has been nearly murdered, off page numerous times.
If the reader ignores the thinly developed subplots and focuses on just the developing romance between the heroine and hero, it’s a great story. The hero is incredibly handsome, a great kisser, and fun to tease. The two wounded souls find solace and vulnerability with each other, and this makes for a sensual, trust-building journey to the HEA.
There’s some violence, blood, a bit of graphic sex, and visits to brothels, bdsm-type places that are described in passing, as in the characters pass through. There are references to bastard children, mistresses, gambling, drinking, and suicide.
May 10, 2021
A great many chapters in this book were devoted to hints, double talk, secrecy, and misleading each of the main characters in regards to what was truly going on. There wasn't really any romance or chemistry even hinted at between the Hero and Heroine for so long that it soon became boring.
There were too many characters who could be potential villains that the storyline was almost completely muddled with them. It left the reader momentarily confused, wondering if there were, in fact, more than one villain involved.
There was almost too much drama and intrigue in the story. In fact, there was so much drama that it overpowered any hint of romance for the main characters. It turned the book from the genre of romance to intrigue, leaving the reader to wonder why the book was in the category of a romance novel at all.
The book was definitely long-winded and drawn out. The way the story was written, it truly did not need 22 chapters to reveal all its hidden secrets. The reader already knew who was the villain and why by chapter 16.
However, with all that said, it wasn't too bad of a book. It clearly had everything a romance novel should, albeit not enough romance and chemistry between the main characters. It did provide a bit more of a mystery than romance, that's for certain. Possibly wrongfully categorized, but good nonetheless. Although it was good, it was not worthy of being a Keeper for the Shelves.
There were too many characters who could be potential villains that the storyline was almost completely muddled with them. It left the reader momentarily confused, wondering if there were, in fact, more than one villain involved.
There was almost too much drama and intrigue in the story. In fact, there was so much drama that it overpowered any hint of romance for the main characters. It turned the book from the genre of romance to intrigue, leaving the reader to wonder why the book was in the category of a romance novel at all.
The book was definitely long-winded and drawn out. The way the story was written, it truly did not need 22 chapters to reveal all its hidden secrets. The reader already knew who was the villain and why by chapter 16.
However, with all that said, it wasn't too bad of a book. It clearly had everything a romance novel should, albeit not enough romance and chemistry between the main characters. It did provide a bit more of a mystery than romance, that's for certain. Possibly wrongfully categorized, but good nonetheless. Although it was good, it was not worthy of being a Keeper for the Shelves.
May 12, 2020
Right from the start And The Widow Wore Scarlet takes off in this rollercoaster ride full of twist and turns that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat. With a villain who spins a web of secrets, deciet and attempted murder until slowly all the pieces start falling together that solve who the real villains are. Adele Clee has outdone herself with this novel, she has given readers a book that is well-written, filled it with superb cast of characters and a strong plot that bring this read together perfectly! Her characters come to life as you find yourself drawn into their story, the scenes are so strikingly detailed it paints an incredible backdrop that makes you feel like you are one with the story. Damian with emotional scars and Scarlett with both emotional and physical scars slowly reach out to the other in this heart felt story filled with drama, angst, uncertainties, sizzling passion, secrets, desperation, longing, heartbreak, trials and tribulations, turmoil and while the suspense builds trying to find the villian, tensions intensify and mayhem abounds with twists and turns that will keep you wandering what's around the next corner makes this one outstanding story! Can't wait to read The Mark of a Rogue!
July 17, 2020
An angry, illegitimate man and a fearful, cast aside woman grew from differing abandonments in childhood. Commonality of loving mothers now deceased, and seemingly uncaring, distant fathers (one still embarrassingly living) allow Damian and Scarlet to see one another's true self. Each has crafted a public persona to protect vulnerabilities. They must find ways to reconcile their pasts, set aside their public masks, and conquer fear of love in order to complete and heal one another and forge a future together. This story explores a situation of class in which legitimacy, reputation, prestige, and wealth are more important than love, family, and truth; in which hopes, dreams, and personal identity are sacrificed to fear, survival, and vengeance. I learned a bit about the period's specialty brothels where domination and pain-pleasure characterized the services offered. Also, I learned more about the value of children to secure loans and settle debts regardless of class. Explicit sex is part of the story, but (thankfully for me) not with every third page frequency. I look forward to the stories of the other scandalous sons introduced in this first book.
October 17, 2023
THE SCARLET WIDOW
This was a sweet story of love and destiny fulfilled for Wycliffe and Scarlet. Both felt unloved as children and finding one another was exactly what they needed. All of the characters were interesting. The camaraderie and the complete trust between Wycliffe and his two best friends was great to see. Wycliffe and Charlotte both seemed to find their own families with other people to make up for what they lacked from their fathers. There was a lot going on in relation to the mystery behind who was trying to kill Scarlet. It almost seemed like too much between the stepson and stepdaughter, and Rathbone lurking around. It was also weird the way it was wrapped up because it seemed like Lord Rathbone genuinely desired Scarlet, and then his feelings all seemed to disappear after the big reveal. Some of that I could have done without. There was a lot of darkness and abuse that happened off page as well. Luckily, we got the happily ever after , but mystery still remains for their friend.
This was a sweet story of love and destiny fulfilled for Wycliffe and Scarlet. Both felt unloved as children and finding one another was exactly what they needed. All of the characters were interesting. The camaraderie and the complete trust between Wycliffe and his two best friends was great to see. Wycliffe and Charlotte both seemed to find their own families with other people to make up for what they lacked from their fathers. There was a lot going on in relation to the mystery behind who was trying to kill Scarlet. It almost seemed like too much between the stepson and stepdaughter, and Rathbone lurking around. It was also weird the way it was wrapped up because it seemed like Lord Rathbone genuinely desired Scarlet, and then his feelings all seemed to disappear after the big reveal. Some of that I could have done without. There was a lot of darkness and abuse that happened off page as well. Luckily, we got the happily ever after , but mystery still remains for their friend.
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