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League of Dukes #5
Scandalous Duke
Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea, has devoted his life to being the perfect statesman and raising his daughter after his beloved wife’s death. But when devastating bombings on the railway leave London in an uproar, he is determined to bring the mastermind of the attacks to justice. He will lure the fox from his den by any means.
In her youth, Johanna McKenna donned a French accent and stage name to escape the clutches of her violent father and became the darling of the New York City stage as Rose Beaumont. Her past comes calling when her brother’s reappearance in her life leads her into a dangerous web of deceit. She finds herself hopelessly trapped until she receives an offer she cannot refuse from London’s most famous theater.
Felix’s plan is clear: bring the famed Rose of New York to London, secure her as his mistress, and drive his quarry to English shores. But the more time he spends in Johanna’s company, the more he realizes nothing is as it seems, least of all the woman who feels as if she were made to be in his arms. When he finally learns the truth, it may be too late to save both his city and the enigmatic lady who has stolen his heart.
In her youth, Johanna McKenna donned a French accent and stage name to escape the clutches of her violent father and became the darling of the New York City stage as Rose Beaumont. Her past comes calling when her brother’s reappearance in her life leads her into a dangerous web of deceit. She finds herself hopelessly trapped until she receives an offer she cannot refuse from London’s most famous theater.
Felix’s plan is clear: bring the famed Rose of New York to London, secure her as his mistress, and drive his quarry to English shores. But the more time he spends in Johanna’s company, the more he realizes nothing is as it seems, least of all the woman who feels as if she were made to be in his arms. When he finally learns the truth, it may be too late to save both his city and the enigmatic lady who has stolen his heart.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 22, 2020
945 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Scott
121 books1,566 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 63 reviews
February 7, 2020
Scandalous Duke is the fifth book in the League of Dukes series and each book gets better and better. This author has quickly become one of my favorites and I’m never disappointed in any of her books. She does a wonderful job of developing her characters and getting the reader to fall in love with them. We meet Felix, the Duke of Winchelsea, earlier in the series and I was so happy to see him get his happy ever after.
Felix worked with the Home Office and the Special League and they were trying to catch Drummond McKenna, the man behind all the Fenian bombings in London. Johanna McKenna was an actress known as the Rose of New York. Her brother, Drummond McKenna, forces her to help him pass information to other Fenian followers. Felix is attracted to Johanna, but he is determined to catch Drummond. The more time he spends with Johanna though the more he doubts Johanna is part of the Fenians. Can he keep her safe while trying to prove her innocence?
Felix worked with the Home Office and the Special League and they were trying to catch Drummond McKenna, the man behind all the Fenian bombings in London. Johanna McKenna was an actress known as the Rose of New York. Her brother, Drummond McKenna, forces her to help him pass information to other Fenian followers. Felix is attracted to Johanna, but he is determined to catch Drummond. The more time he spends with Johanna though the more he doubts Johanna is part of the Fenians. Can he keep her safe while trying to prove her innocence?
January 19, 2023
This was a very enjoyable read!
Just not my favorite in the series.
Just not my favorite in the series.
January 19, 2023
Scandalous Duke is the 5th book in Scarlett Scott’s League of Dukes series. The first book in the series remains my favorite, with book 2 close behind that. This 5th book is probably next because I just love the tropes in this one so much and it really worked for me. We have a widowed, single father Duke and an actress heroine who has more to her story than meets the eye.
Rose is a famed actress from New York and gets brought to London. Felix, Duke of Winchelsea, is taken with her from the start. A widowed, single dad, Felix struggles with both wanting Rose and not wanting to replace the memories of his beloved late wife. Rose has some secrets of her own and I liked seeing these two together. They both have griefs of their own and find they have loss in common. His 5-year old daughter Verity was a cute addition.
“If you are scandalous, my love, then I shall simply be a scandalous duke. And to the devil with anyone who turns up their noses at us. We will face them all together.”
Rose is a famed actress from New York and gets brought to London. Felix, Duke of Winchelsea, is taken with her from the start. A widowed, single dad, Felix struggles with both wanting Rose and not wanting to replace the memories of his beloved late wife. Rose has some secrets of her own and I liked seeing these two together. They both have griefs of their own and find they have loss in common. His 5-year old daughter Verity was a cute addition.
“If you are scandalous, my love, then I shall simply be a scandalous duke. And to the devil with anyone who turns up their noses at us. We will face them all together.”
January 27, 2020
Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea, has devoted his life to being the perfect statesman and raising his daughter Verity after his beloved wife Hattie’s death. But when devastating bombings on the railway leave London in an uproar, he is determined to bring the mastermind of the attacks to justice.
Leaving home at fifteen, Johanna McKenna donned a French accent and stage name to escape the clutches of her violent father and became the darling of the New York City stage as Rose Beaumont. Her past comes calling when her brother Drummond’s reappearance in her life leads her into a dangerous web of deceit. She finds herself hopelessly trapped until she receives an offer she cannot refuse from London’s most famous theatre.
Felix’s plan is clear: bring the famed Rose of New York to London, secure her as his mistress, and drive his quarry to English shores as he believes Johanna is Drummond’s mistress. But the more time he spends in Johanna’s company, the more he realizes nothing is as it seems & when he finally learns the truth, it may be too late to save both his city and the enigmatic lady who has stolen his heart.
This is the fifth book in the series & it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading the whole series. I’ve loved the whole series & this is no exception. I loved both Felix & Johanna, each had secrets & things were bound to go pear shaped when all was revealed. They were both strong characters & she’d forged a new life for herself but now feared for her existence. Their attraction sizzled & boy did it combust. I found this book started like a leisurely stroll in the park but the more I read the more the pace increased until I felt I was running the 100metres! I loved every page of it, another enthralling, engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Leaving home at fifteen, Johanna McKenna donned a French accent and stage name to escape the clutches of her violent father and became the darling of the New York City stage as Rose Beaumont. Her past comes calling when her brother Drummond’s reappearance in her life leads her into a dangerous web of deceit. She finds herself hopelessly trapped until she receives an offer she cannot refuse from London’s most famous theatre.
Felix’s plan is clear: bring the famed Rose of New York to London, secure her as his mistress, and drive his quarry to English shores as he believes Johanna is Drummond’s mistress. But the more time he spends in Johanna’s company, the more he realizes nothing is as it seems & when he finally learns the truth, it may be too late to save both his city and the enigmatic lady who has stolen his heart.
This is the fifth book in the series & it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading the whole series. I’ve loved the whole series & this is no exception. I loved both Felix & Johanna, each had secrets & things were bound to go pear shaped when all was revealed. They were both strong characters & she’d forged a new life for herself but now feared for her existence. Their attraction sizzled & boy did it combust. I found this book started like a leisurely stroll in the park but the more I read the more the pace increased until I felt I was running the 100metres! I loved every page of it, another enthralling, engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 28, 2020
Scandalous Duke by Scarlett Scott is book 5 in the League of Dukes Series. This is the story of Johanna McKenna and Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea. I have read the previous books but fee you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Johanna uses the stage name Rose Beaumont when she escaped from her family. Felix is out to capture the person who has been sitting offs bombs in London. This leads him to Johanna who he suspects has ties to the man that he is looking for. What he didn't know was that he would be so drawn to her. Johanna is scared of her family which is also the one that Felix is after.
This was a really good read.
Johanna uses the stage name Rose Beaumont when she escaped from her family. Felix is out to capture the person who has been sitting offs bombs in London. This leads him to Johanna who he suspects has ties to the man that he is looking for. What he didn't know was that he would be so drawn to her. Johanna is scared of her family which is also the one that Felix is after.
This was a really good read.
February 3, 2020
Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea and his daughter Verity are on their own and living an unhappy life. Johanna McKenna, is also alone and running from her evil brother. Ms Scott has written a wonderful story of intrigue, betrayal, loss, family and of course love. Thoroughly enjoyable.
January 28, 2020
This was a captivating read. There was an instant attraction between Joanna McKenna and Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea. The connection started as a wager but developed into so much more. However, Joanna was forced to obey the directives of her brother, Drummond, who was a leader of the Fenians. There was also the fact that Felix had not been completely honest with Joanna. This story was very tense at times, there were elements of danger and some very passionate times. There was also a delightful little girl named, Verity. This was another excellent read in their engaging series. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 19, 2023
Since the death of his beloved wife, Felix Markham, the Duke of Winchelsea, has poured everything into his work for the crown and raising his young daughter. With railway bombings plaguing London, he’s determined to lure the mastermind behind the attacks out into the open by any means necessary.
When she was a young girl, Johanna McKenna reinvented herself to escape her violent father, adopting a French accent and becoming Rose Beaumont, New York City’s favorite actress. She’s successfully avoided her family for years until her brother finds her and drags her back into his web of lies and violence, leaving her trapped until she receives an offer to come to London for a six-week tour at a famous theater.
Felix has a clear-cut plan. Lure the famed Rose of New York to London, woo her into being his mistress, and thereby draw his true quarry to London with her. But the more time Felix spends with Johanna, the clearer it becomes that he’s been wrong about some key facts in this case. Soon Felix believes Johanna is an innocent pawn in her brother’s schemes and he’s equally convinced that she’s the woman for him. When Felix does eventually learn the entire truth, it may be too late to ensure the safety of both London at large and his newfound love.
This story surprised me with its emotional depth. Johanna had been on her own for a long time and had no idea how to trust or rely on someone else. Though this did make her a bit frustrating at times, she did have good reason to mistrust Felix a bit. I think at times she took this too far, but I enjoyed seeing Felix patiently show her what it is to be loved and trust in those feelings for another. In turn, Johanna helped Felix’s grief stricken and previously dormant heart heal and learn to love again. Felix acknowledged his feelings and did everything he could to protect Johanna and secure them a chance at a future together and I loved him for that. He was also adorable in his role as father to Verity, though her resemblance to his beloved late wife pained him at times. In short, it was impossible not to root for Felix and I was glad to see him settle down with someone who loved him and begin living life without thought of scandal or the duty that had bound him for the previous years and kept him from truly living. Though Johanna did have to grow on me, I did enjoy this story and the action of it kept me wanting to listen ceaselessly.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
When she was a young girl, Johanna McKenna reinvented herself to escape her violent father, adopting a French accent and becoming Rose Beaumont, New York City’s favorite actress. She’s successfully avoided her family for years until her brother finds her and drags her back into his web of lies and violence, leaving her trapped until she receives an offer to come to London for a six-week tour at a famous theater.
Felix has a clear-cut plan. Lure the famed Rose of New York to London, woo her into being his mistress, and thereby draw his true quarry to London with her. But the more time Felix spends with Johanna, the clearer it becomes that he’s been wrong about some key facts in this case. Soon Felix believes Johanna is an innocent pawn in her brother’s schemes and he’s equally convinced that she’s the woman for him. When Felix does eventually learn the entire truth, it may be too late to ensure the safety of both London at large and his newfound love.
This story surprised me with its emotional depth. Johanna had been on her own for a long time and had no idea how to trust or rely on someone else. Though this did make her a bit frustrating at times, she did have good reason to mistrust Felix a bit. I think at times she took this too far, but I enjoyed seeing Felix patiently show her what it is to be loved and trust in those feelings for another. In turn, Johanna helped Felix’s grief stricken and previously dormant heart heal and learn to love again. Felix acknowledged his feelings and did everything he could to protect Johanna and secure them a chance at a future together and I loved him for that. He was also adorable in his role as father to Verity, though her resemblance to his beloved late wife pained him at times. In short, it was impossible not to root for Felix and I was glad to see him settle down with someone who loved him and begin living life without thought of scandal or the duty that had bound him for the previous years and kept him from truly living. Though Johanna did have to grow on me, I did enjoy this story and the action of it kept me wanting to listen ceaselessly.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
March 5, 2023
Loved this one!
The Duke H is an undercover detective trying to investigate the heroine -who may be connected to terrorists (Fenians). He is completely torn between his growing infatuation with her and serving his country. He is, however, determined to catch her in the act of terrorism and decides to seduce her - two birds one stone. Of course, the poor h is innocent and is a victim of a crappy family. She just wants to escape her family of terrorists and start a new life in Paris. But then H makes her fall in love. And the whole time she knows there is no way a Duke could be with an American actress on the run. But then they make love. Twice. And then he kind of screws her over, she pushes him away bc she no longer trusts him- it’s such an angsty mess. I loved it. Grovel.
Only 4 stars bc he brought up his love for his former wife way too often. The dead spouse trope can be such a hit or miss for me.
Safety: no OW drama. Loss of infant off page but still so heartbreaking. Hero is a widower and was very in love with his deceased wife.
The Duke H is an undercover detective trying to investigate the heroine -who may be connected to terrorists (Fenians). He is completely torn between his growing infatuation with her and serving his country. He is, however, determined to catch her in the act of terrorism and decides to seduce her - two birds one stone. Of course, the poor h is innocent and is a victim of a crappy family. She just wants to escape her family of terrorists and start a new life in Paris. But then H makes her fall in love. And the whole time she knows there is no way a Duke could be with an American actress on the run. But then they make love. Twice. And then he kind of screws her over, she pushes him away bc she no longer trusts him- it’s such an angsty mess. I loved it. Grovel.
Only 4 stars bc he brought up his love for his former wife way too often. The dead spouse trope can be such a hit or miss for me.
Safety: no OW drama. Loss of infant off page but still so heartbreaking. Hero is a widower and was very in love with his deceased wife.
May 25, 2020
This is an emotionally-charged story that will bring you into Felix and Johanna’s world and not let you go. This story is so much more than just a romance. It is a celebration of the life of children. Felix loved his wife (which I really like in a story) but he did not let that pull him back from the feelings he was developing for Johanna. Their love story starts off as a deception but soon turns into a story of respect and compassion. Shhhh…you might get a glimpse of a man’s heartbreaking tears. I cannot say enough about how much I loved this story. It is emotional and gives you all of the feels. To Pearl and Verity.
September 14, 2025
Taky priemer... Nic prekvapive, trochu nuda, ale na dovolenku kde vrieskaju deti na plazi v pohode, zacitate sa do 5 stranoveho sexu vojvodu a herecky, a zabudnete, ze ste tie decka chceli utopit 🙂 a to ze 5 rocna dcera vojvodu rozprava ako min. 10 ročná a vie co je vers mi pripomina, ze ziadne z uvrieskanych deciek ma plazi dnes pri mojom citani neprejavovalo taku mieru vyspelosti... No nic, asi som na zlom mieste v nespravnom storoci 😃. A chyba v preklade, kym vojvoda donesie Johanne rukavicku s vysitym ruzovym pucikom (str. 30)o stranku dalej uz je to cervena ruza...
February 1, 2020
I was given this ARC by the amazing author for an honest review.
I have read all of the books in this action packed and steamy romance. I loved them, but this one is my favorite so far!
Felix the Duke of Winchelsea works for the League, he is a handsome widow with a young daughter.
He is determined to bring to justice to the violent Fenians. He arranges for the beautiful and famed actress, the Rose of Beaumont to come to London from America. She is suspected to have close ties to the McKenna, a fenian.
When he meets her, and propositions her, she accepts and gives him a week to see if he can win her her over! Ohh! their attraction is palpable, but she is living in fear, she has a sad past, which makes them have a lot in common. Throughout the story, they get to know each other, they become attracted to each other. Meanwhile there are bombs going off in London by the Fenians, putting his family and her indanger.
Lot's of action, suspense, page turning story, and steamy attraction, which leads to hot love scenes. Tastefully written story, loved the attention to the details, the narrative, the emotions, and exposed secrets. I found myself crying while reading Chapter 17!
Bravo the Scarlett Scott for another well written and captivating romance!!!
Such a wonderful, well written story line, action, suspense, romance and steamy love scenes.
I have read all of the books in this action packed and steamy romance. I loved them, but this one is my favorite so far!
Felix the Duke of Winchelsea works for the League, he is a handsome widow with a young daughter.
He is determined to bring to justice to the violent Fenians. He arranges for the beautiful and famed actress, the Rose of Beaumont to come to London from America. She is suspected to have close ties to the McKenna, a fenian.
When he meets her, and propositions her, she accepts and gives him a week to see if he can win her her over! Ohh! their attraction is palpable, but she is living in fear, she has a sad past, which makes them have a lot in common. Throughout the story, they get to know each other, they become attracted to each other. Meanwhile there are bombs going off in London by the Fenians, putting his family and her indanger.
Lot's of action, suspense, page turning story, and steamy attraction, which leads to hot love scenes. Tastefully written story, loved the attention to the details, the narrative, the emotions, and exposed secrets. I found myself crying while reading Chapter 17!
Bravo the Scarlett Scott for another well written and captivating romance!!!
Such a wonderful, well written story line, action, suspense, romance and steamy love scenes.
February 2, 2020
I have known, after starting to read books by Scarlett Scott, that when a new one comes available it will be a wonderful read & this one did not disappoint. I cried at many touching scenes, I laughed a many humorous quips or actions, I fanned myself in the spicy intimate scenes, cringed with nervousness over the dangerous situations that took place & breathed easy in the end.
Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea is a handsome widower with a young daughter to raise by himself. Since the death of this wife he has dedicated himself to working as an agent for the Home Office & spending time with his daughter. Now, he is embroiled in a dangerous case of railway bombings in London & it is imperative he find any way he can to capture the leader, Drummond McKenna.
Miss Johanna McKenna escaped her father & brother's mental & physical harm when she ran away at age fifteen & joined a travelling acting company. She changed her name to Rose Beaumont & took on a French accent & over the years became a famous actress now acting on New York stages. One problem, her brother has recognized her pictures & is now blackmailing her to do unlawful tasks that pull her into his world of deceit. She is trapped in this situation & then suddenly receives a letter from London's most famous theatre & it is an offer she won't refuse.
All of the action starts here when the duke has his friend & theater owner bring the Rose of New York to London to perform. When the duke & Rose meet, sparks fly, lies told, deceit begins, danger is lurking. I highly recommend this book & all the books in this series - they all have creative stories & wonderful main & secondary characters.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea is a handsome widower with a young daughter to raise by himself. Since the death of this wife he has dedicated himself to working as an agent for the Home Office & spending time with his daughter. Now, he is embroiled in a dangerous case of railway bombings in London & it is imperative he find any way he can to capture the leader, Drummond McKenna.
Miss Johanna McKenna escaped her father & brother's mental & physical harm when she ran away at age fifteen & joined a travelling acting company. She changed her name to Rose Beaumont & took on a French accent & over the years became a famous actress now acting on New York stages. One problem, her brother has recognized her pictures & is now blackmailing her to do unlawful tasks that pull her into his world of deceit. She is trapped in this situation & then suddenly receives a letter from London's most famous theatre & it is an offer she won't refuse.
All of the action starts here when the duke has his friend & theater owner bring the Rose of New York to London to perform. When the duke & Rose meet, sparks fly, lies told, deceit begins, danger is lurking. I highly recommend this book & all the books in this series - they all have creative stories & wonderful main & secondary characters.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
January 29, 2020
Great book ...great series! This was an awesome book. I laughed, cried, chewed by fingernails, sighed..—it produced all these emotions and more! Scarlett never lets me down! I haven’t read a book she’s written that I have not fallen in love with! I highly recommend this book and the entire series (if you haven’t read them).
January 29, 2020
Scarlett Scott is by far one of my favorite authors and reading over 350 books a year, that’s quite a few authors.
She never disappoints. I can truthfully say I love all of her books and I can now include this one among them. I loved the characters, the writing and their story. You can never go wrong by picking up a Scarlett Scott book but be prepared...you will love it so much you will download every book she has after that. I have her new releases already listed on my book list and can't wait for the next one.
She never disappoints. I can truthfully say I love all of her books and I can now include this one among them. I loved the characters, the writing and their story. You can never go wrong by picking up a Scarlett Scott book but be prepared...you will love it so much you will download every book she has after that. I have her new releases already listed on my book list and can't wait for the next one.
August 7, 2024
3/5⭐️ the prologue and last 50ish pages ate, the rest fell short. This is my least favorite book of the series.
April 17, 2020
Scarlett Scott is fast working her way up my list of adored authors to the top of the pile. With this book, she made it to the top. Thanks to the Harlots on Facebook, I have started reading historical romance again, and this book should be hailed as a perfect example of what the combination of history, steam, great characters, and a great plot can be.
I love Ms. Scott's men. Her Dukes are written perfectly with just enough upper crust combined with sexiness to make a great story. Then she adds another dimension. They become vulnerable when met with the women they love. That just makes the story that much better! I love when a gorgeous hunk of male turns into a puddle when their woman is around. And I LOVE IT when a writer can put that onto the page.
But more importantly, I love her women. No matter how these women might think of themselves, it is a guarantee that Ms. Scott will write them as strong willed and perfectly able to stand up to the Dukes in this series of stories. As an author, she also knows the value of the backstory, the building of the character, and she does it very well, leaving us no doubt as to why the heroines act the way they do. In this case, Johanna feels she has no choice in the matter, throughout the book, and becomes a sympathetic character, even when she is standing up to the Duke of Winchelsea (did I spell that right? Oh! I think I did, score one for me).
And the story was on point. She used a little bit of artistic license with the dates, but honestly if any one of us can remember when the Fenians set a bomb in St. James Square, stand up and I'll give you a ribbon. The Fenians at the time were real, dangerous, and ruthless, and she portrayed Drummond in just that way, which added yet another layer of character and story to the book.
And in case you think it was all seriousness and violence, wait until you read about Verity. Especially Verity and Johanna in the salon. When you read that scene, you'll realize how well tuned-into her characters Ms. Scott really is.
I did not put this book down until I was done. And I rarely say that anymore, even with historicals. But sometimes the combination of strong characters, a well written plot, romance writ large, and a beautiful little girl can do that to you.
I love Ms. Scott's men. Her Dukes are written perfectly with just enough upper crust combined with sexiness to make a great story. Then she adds another dimension. They become vulnerable when met with the women they love. That just makes the story that much better! I love when a gorgeous hunk of male turns into a puddle when their woman is around. And I LOVE IT when a writer can put that onto the page.
But more importantly, I love her women. No matter how these women might think of themselves, it is a guarantee that Ms. Scott will write them as strong willed and perfectly able to stand up to the Dukes in this series of stories. As an author, she also knows the value of the backstory, the building of the character, and she does it very well, leaving us no doubt as to why the heroines act the way they do. In this case, Johanna feels she has no choice in the matter, throughout the book, and becomes a sympathetic character, even when she is standing up to the Duke of Winchelsea (did I spell that right? Oh! I think I did, score one for me).
And the story was on point. She used a little bit of artistic license with the dates, but honestly if any one of us can remember when the Fenians set a bomb in St. James Square, stand up and I'll give you a ribbon. The Fenians at the time were real, dangerous, and ruthless, and she portrayed Drummond in just that way, which added yet another layer of character and story to the book.
And in case you think it was all seriousness and violence, wait until you read about Verity. Especially Verity and Johanna in the salon. When you read that scene, you'll realize how well tuned-into her characters Ms. Scott really is.
I did not put this book down until I was done. And I rarely say that anymore, even with historicals. But sometimes the combination of strong characters, a well written plot, romance writ large, and a beautiful little girl can do that to you.
January 11, 2024
4.5⭐️
I love this series so, so much. I wish it just kept going on and on. Scarlett can literally do no wrong.
Felix, the Duke of Winchelsea is dedicated to his work for the Home Office and the Special League. He’s been in charge of extracting information from Rose Beaumont, an actress from New York and the mistress of Drummond McKenna, the man who’s behind all the Fenian bombs in London. The problem is, the more he comes to know Miss Beaumont, the more he finds himself attracted to her as she is not what he expected. And Rose Beaumont, isn’t exactly who she says she is. Really Johanna McKenna, the sister of Drummond, was forced by her brother to help him pass information to more Fenians or he will kill her. When Felix finds out her real identity, he will do whatever it takes to get her away from her brother, even if that means risking his spot in the Home Office. Johanna had a plan. Help her brother, while also collecting evidence against him, give whatever she could get to authorities and vanish. But when she meets Felix, her plans go askew as she starts to fall in love with him. They both must work together to clear Johanna of charges against her for conspiring with Fenians.
I loved this! I was hooked from beginning to end and finished it in less than three days. And I had three full shifts of work in those days 😂
I love this series so, so much. I read book 6 before this one, and I was left somewhat disappointed, so I’m glad I got to book 5 cause it made up for 6😂
The ooooonly thing that annoyed me was how Johanna kept playing the “we can’t be together card” 🙄 Even after Drummond was dead, like girl, it’s done. You guys can get together now. I was like constant. Girl, stop.
I love this series so, so much. I wish it just kept going on and on. Scarlett can literally do no wrong.
Felix, the Duke of Winchelsea is dedicated to his work for the Home Office and the Special League. He’s been in charge of extracting information from Rose Beaumont, an actress from New York and the mistress of Drummond McKenna, the man who’s behind all the Fenian bombs in London. The problem is, the more he comes to know Miss Beaumont, the more he finds himself attracted to her as she is not what he expected. And Rose Beaumont, isn’t exactly who she says she is. Really Johanna McKenna, the sister of Drummond, was forced by her brother to help him pass information to more Fenians or he will kill her. When Felix finds out her real identity, he will do whatever it takes to get her away from her brother, even if that means risking his spot in the Home Office. Johanna had a plan. Help her brother, while also collecting evidence against him, give whatever she could get to authorities and vanish. But when she meets Felix, her plans go askew as she starts to fall in love with him. They both must work together to clear Johanna of charges against her for conspiring with Fenians.
I loved this! I was hooked from beginning to end and finished it in less than three days. And I had three full shifts of work in those days 😂
I love this series so, so much. I read book 6 before this one, and I was left somewhat disappointed, so I’m glad I got to book 5 cause it made up for 6😂
The ooooonly thing that annoyed me was how Johanna kept playing the “we can’t be together card” 🙄 Even after Drummond was dead, like girl, it’s done. You guys can get together now. I was like constant. Girl, stop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
I am midway through chapter 4 feeling profoundly insulted. This author writes the same thing over and over and over apparently thinking readers cannot understand or remember what was written on the preceding page. YES, HE IS USING HER IN HIS JOB TO LURE HER LOVER TO LONDON! I GET IT. I'm so sorry HE has to keep reminding himself. You'd think the author could fill the page with some other emotion or description with details. I'm so fucking frustrated. . .I felt the same thing with early books in the series hoping the author would have improved by now. Oh, and btw, 23% into the story and there's no reference to characters or his position linking him to earlier books in the series. I'm slogging through it hoping it'll catch up to some of the better qualities of earlier stories in the series.
You will have to wait until 46% into the book to be introduced (or reunited) to the League of Dukes.
Ya know, it's not until I've read enough smartly written books that I can recognize the simplicity (or laziness) of a writer that frustrates me so much. The dialog and the lack of depth of character dilutes the potency of an otherwise interesting story. Joanna is credited with being smart and caring yet her actions reveal her true recklessness, shallow, and thoughtless nature. The contradictions are discombobulating! Her whining is excruciating.
OK, the sex is explicit but lacks erotic emotion. It feels like the author threw intimate details on the page like throwing spaghetti on the wall.
This is really a 2-star book upgraded to a 3-star maybe because I enjoyed Rosalyn Landor's narrative expertise.
You will have to wait until 46% into the book to be introduced (or reunited) to the League of Dukes.
Ya know, it's not until I've read enough smartly written books that I can recognize the simplicity (or laziness) of a writer that frustrates me so much. The dialog and the lack of depth of character dilutes the potency of an otherwise interesting story. Joanna is credited with being smart and caring yet her actions reveal her true recklessness, shallow, and thoughtless nature. The contradictions are discombobulating! Her whining is excruciating.
OK, the sex is explicit but lacks erotic emotion. It feels like the author threw intimate details on the page like throwing spaghetti on the wall.
This is really a 2-star book upgraded to a 3-star maybe because I enjoyed Rosalyn Landor's narrative expertise.
September 2, 2020
The fifth book of this series brings us Felix and Johanna’s story. This author is in my group of top authors to read, and this book keeps her solidly in that group. Intrigue, suspense, danger, laughter and love are mainstays of this author’s works, and this story has it all. Felix’s work for the Home Office of Security – has him tracking a criminal that has been leaving ruin in his path with bombings. Thinking that the famed actress, Rose Beaumont is the criminal’s mistress, he targets her to use as bait. But there are a lot of secrets he doesn’t know, and he doesn’t count on his heart getting involved.
This is an intriguing historical romance with the right recipe for success. It does have some very hot sex scenes, which you may need to turn that fan on full blast during. Watching these two navigate their feelings for each other and the danger that is present, keeps this book as a great page turner. Looking forward to the next one.
This is an intriguing historical romance with the right recipe for success. It does have some very hot sex scenes, which you may need to turn that fan on full blast during. Watching these two navigate their feelings for each other and the danger that is present, keeps this book as a great page turner. Looking forward to the next one.
April 11, 2022
romantic characters elegant writing
Scarlet Scott writes elegant pros that create visuals and represent the characters and time period. Rose/Johanna maintains different accents ( use audiobook) to showcase her personality and character. I found her sensitive, and charming but not self preserving in some of her decisions. Felix was an interesting hero, single father still mourning after 4 years the death of his wife but also experiencing severe panic attacks when he feared the loss of a loved one. So the main characters were romantic and engaging. The story itself about terrorism, female abuse, and manipulation of the truth to gain advantage for a higher good are fascinating. If you like political intrigue as well as romance this story is for you.
Scarlet Scott writes elegant pros that create visuals and represent the characters and time period. Rose/Johanna maintains different accents ( use audiobook) to showcase her personality and character. I found her sensitive, and charming but not self preserving in some of her decisions. Felix was an interesting hero, single father still mourning after 4 years the death of his wife but also experiencing severe panic attacks when he feared the loss of a loved one. So the main characters were romantic and engaging. The story itself about terrorism, female abuse, and manipulation of the truth to gain advantage for a higher good are fascinating. If you like political intrigue as well as romance this story is for you.
August 27, 2020
A friend recommended Scarlett Scott to me right as the pandemic began. I so appreciate this as I've been on a mental trip to England ever since. This book did not disappoint. The League of Dukes work with the Home Office, at this point trying to prevent bombings in the pursuit of Irish Home Rule. The Duke of Winchelsea has learned that famous American actress Rose Beaumont is linked to a leader of this group. Felix brings her to his friend's theatre to perform in London in hopes of drawing out the bomber. Both Rose (real name Johanna) and Felix have tragic pasts. The journey to their future is an interesting one. Now on to another one in this series!
September 13, 2022
Finding Love again through lies
Another wonderful story. I loved Felix and Johanna’s story. She had been on the run from her family for 11 years, changing her name to Rose Beaumont. As she became more famous as Mademoiselle Rose the actress her past would catch up to her. Her brother finally found her and threatened her so she did his bidding. She carried dynamite and documents with her to London.
Felix finally got his prey to London. How was he going to get close to Rose Beaumont so he can catch her lover Drummond McKenna. He did not realize that Rose was actually his sister. Love a book with intrigue, secrets, lies etc.
A wonderful book with a beautiful ending.
Another wonderful story. I loved Felix and Johanna’s story. She had been on the run from her family for 11 years, changing her name to Rose Beaumont. As she became more famous as Mademoiselle Rose the actress her past would catch up to her. Her brother finally found her and threatened her so she did his bidding. She carried dynamite and documents with her to London.
Felix finally got his prey to London. How was he going to get close to Rose Beaumont so he can catch her lover Drummond McKenna. He did not realize that Rose was actually his sister. Love a book with intrigue, secrets, lies etc.
A wonderful book with a beautiful ending.
July 25, 2022
There was a whole lotta insta-love here. Not always a bad thing, but I do think the timeline of this story kind of threw me for a loop. It was all so quick! I blinked, and suddenly people were declaring things and sharing tragic backstories. Things happened in what felt like hours—totally life-changing things that probably should have been dealt with with a bit more nuance! That being said, I've loved every heroine in this series and Joanna McKenna was no exception. She was fantastic, fabulous, other assorted adjectives beginning with the letter 'f.'
November 26, 2022
👏👏
I truly, honestly, completely wish I could give this book more than 5 stars!!! I absolutely, I mean ABSOLUTELY, loved it!!! 😍
This story was slow to begin with, but became increasingly enticing to the point where I could not put it down. I feel like the ending was incomplete, I wanted- for lack of a better word- more. I wanted to know more than what I was told; it came to a point where I just couldn't put this book down. Over all, this novel deserves a high rating because it was deliciously good.
I truly, honestly, completely wish I could give this book more than 5 stars!!! I absolutely, I mean ABSOLUTELY, loved it!!! 😍
This story was slow to begin with, but became increasingly enticing to the point where I could not put it down. I feel like the ending was incomplete, I wanted- for lack of a better word- more. I wanted to know more than what I was told; it came to a point where I just couldn't put this book down. Over all, this novel deserves a high rating because it was deliciously good.
December 13, 2021
An excellent take on the grieving widower trope. Both Felix and Rose have dealt with loss in their lives. This book explores the myriad of feelings that they go through before they find happiness together. I literally had tears running down my cheeks and I stayed up late at night reading this book. My review won't do this story justice. Just read this book. The whole series is excellent but I think this book is the best.
September 28, 2023
Scott consistently delivers captivating stories, and "Scandalous Duke" is no exception. She is quickly becoming a favourite author in this genre for me.
With remarkable character development, the protagonist's emotional journey immerses the reader into their world and you do not want to put the book down. This heartwarming, feel-good book is a comforting escape on a rainy day. Don't miss it if this is your cup of tea.
With remarkable character development, the protagonist's emotional journey immerses the reader into their world and you do not want to put the book down. This heartwarming, feel-good book is a comforting escape on a rainy day. Don't miss it if this is your cup of tea.
April 27, 2020
Another well written story in the League of Dukes series, that once I started reading I was not putting down until I had finished reading it. Felix Markham, Duke of Winchelsea and Johanna McKenna's story has suspense, drama, blackmail, danger, secrets, an evil brother, and romance. I hope there is going to be more in this series. I read this copy thru K.U. and I am voluntarily reviewing.
February 4, 2023
This was so cute! I really loved how Johanna and Felix relationship grew over time. Both had losses from their past and it was nice to see them open up to each other. Felix was very protective of Johanna but also did not limit her in her career which was great to see. Also Felix's daughter, Verity, was super adorable and I loved how Johanna was were her.
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March 26, 2023Leagues of dukes series
I have enjoyed this series, my only suggestions would be not to be so graphically crude with descriptive sex and let the reader see what sex the promised new infants are and at least a little follow up on what happens to characters in the next book to tie them together more. Very talented writer.
I have enjoyed this series, my only suggestions would be not to be so graphically crude with descriptive sex and let the reader see what sex the promised new infants are and at least a little follow up on what happens to characters in the next book to tie them together more. Very talented writer.
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