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Meet Raven—the second of four gentlemen who work to right injustices—in the new heart-stopping series, Gentlemen of the Order.
Finlay Cole deserves the moniker Raven. Bad luck and ill omens are his constant companions. Still crippled with guilt over his wife’s death, he works as an enquiry agent to distract him from the pain of the past. But his nightmares return when he discovers his next client is his first love—a woman who still holds a piece of his heart.
Sophia Adair has kept a dark secret for seven years. Protecting her sister cost her the love of her life. It cost her any hope of happiness. But now someone with evil intentions is corrupting her sister’s mind. Someone is out to abduct the poor girl, though Sophia has no notion why. Desperate for help, she turns to Finlay Cole, the only man she can trust.
Forced to spend a week together at Blackborne manor, a house that has as many secrets as its occupants, Finlay and Sophia must work to solve the mystery. But how will they fare when the old flames are ignited and desire for each other burns? Can Finlay overcome his guilt and learn to love again? Does Sophia have the strength to pull Finlay from the darkness and claim the only man she’s ever loved?
Finlay Cole deserves the moniker Raven. Bad luck and ill omens are his constant companions. Still crippled with guilt over his wife’s death, he works as an enquiry agent to distract him from the pain of the past. But his nightmares return when he discovers his next client is his first love—a woman who still holds a piece of his heart.
Sophia Adair has kept a dark secret for seven years. Protecting her sister cost her the love of her life. It cost her any hope of happiness. But now someone with evil intentions is corrupting her sister’s mind. Someone is out to abduct the poor girl, though Sophia has no notion why. Desperate for help, she turns to Finlay Cole, the only man she can trust.
Forced to spend a week together at Blackborne manor, a house that has as many secrets as its occupants, Finlay and Sophia must work to solve the mystery. But how will they fare when the old flames are ignited and desire for each other burns? Can Finlay overcome his guilt and learn to love again? Does Sophia have the strength to pull Finlay from the darkness and claim the only man she’s ever loved?
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2020
507 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Adele Clee
57 books535 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 77 reviews
October 5, 2020
If Finlay had learnt anything these last few days, it was that a man often found his fate on the road he wished to avoid. Love defied reason. Those hardest to love needed it most of all.
4.5 stars!
Adele Clee has delivered an outstanding novel once again! Continuing in the GENTLEMEN OF THE ORDER series, RAVEN follows the the exploits of Finlay Cole who is deemed as shrewd and intelligent as the flighty harbinger of death. Sophia, Cole's past love, hires Cole as an inquiry agent to discover who is meddling with her sister's mind and threatening her life, desperate to uncover the truth and form a connection with Cole once again.
Cole is reluctant to accept the job at first because of their shared and hurtful past, but as before he is unable to deny Sophia anything. As they begin to unravel the clues leading them to Jessica's tormentor, they find the truth is more complex than they could have imagined while many of the people involved are not who they seem. This novel was the perfect October read as it gives off spooky vibes and has the perfect mystery to keep you guessing; I absolutely loved it! The romance was so swoony as well, while that carriage scene had me blushing in the best way. Another fabulous novel by Adele that I highly recommend, and I cannot wait to see Sloane fall head over heels for a wallflower next ♡
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
October 1, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
So in-depth and so many plot twists that keep you guessing, Adele has penned another brilliant book to add to this series.
Raven is cool calm and collected, he’s a beautiful character that has so much depth to him and charisma just oozes from him.
Sophia is a Lady who has never been happy since she found the man she loved died in Belgium, or did he.
Raven came back to find she had married another, but now much to his annoyance, she needs him and no one else can help.
Both she and her sister are in trouble, Death and disaster stalk them.
Raven to the rescue.
Brilliant storyline and fantastic characters.
The gang are all back together to help Raven solve this mystery, and they have their work cut out.
Adele is surpassing herself every book in this series.
Can’t wait for Dauntless
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
So in-depth and so many plot twists that keep you guessing, Adele has penned another brilliant book to add to this series.
Raven is cool calm and collected, he’s a beautiful character that has so much depth to him and charisma just oozes from him.
Sophia is a Lady who has never been happy since she found the man she loved died in Belgium, or did he.
Raven came back to find she had married another, but now much to his annoyance, she needs him and no one else can help.
Both she and her sister are in trouble, Death and disaster stalk them.
Raven to the rescue.
Brilliant storyline and fantastic characters.
The gang are all back together to help Raven solve this mystery, and they have their work cut out.
Adele is surpassing herself every book in this series.
Can’t wait for Dauntless
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
August 30, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Rather interesting main characters.
Interesting plot.
Rather good mystery.
Second chance romance.
No pregnancy or kids/babies at the end of the book.
(And the only discussion the couple had about kids was that they maybe would adopt in the future…. Because the heroine thinks she is “barren” because she had no children with her late husband. )
Widow heroine.
Somewhat “older” heroine (30) 👍
Good steam.
Good romance/romantic build-up and chemistry.
All the villains get their comeuppance.
➖ What I disliked:
The heroine was a little too self-sacrificing… And why did the entire or almost the entire responsibility fall on the heroine and the servants to be more or less to be full time caregivers for the heroines fragile younger sister?…. What about the heroines father when he was alive?Grandparents? Other relatives?
Believability/plausibility issues.
(Some things and issues the heroine should have known about or seen or realized… because they were rather obvious.)
The romance/romantic build-up and chemistry was good … but could have been great if a little more focus was on the romance/romantic build-up…. And a tiny tiny bit less on the sexual part of their relationship.
But there is also a little too much focus on the heroines sister and the drama surrounding her sisters illness… that also effects the romance/romantic build-up in a negative way.
The character description/visual appearance/character choice about both main characters was formulaic.
September 30, 2020
Finlay Cole lives up to his nickname of Raven, surrounded by bad luck as he is and still held fast in the clutches of his guilt over his wife’s death. His wok as an enquiry agent keeps him distracted from his painful past, but he’s thrust right back into that mire when he learns that his latest client is his first love, a woman he’s never stopped loving.
Lady Sophia Adair has given up everything including her love and happiness to protect her sister and guard her secrets for the past seven years. Now someone is meddling with her sister’s delicate mind and Sophia suspects an abduction plot. Sophia has no idea what’s going on and will trust no one but Finlay Cole to help her.
Forced together at secluded Blackborne manor, Finlay and Sophia must be honest with each other in order to help her sister. In doing so, it quickly becomes clear that their feelings for each other are as strong as ever. Solving the mystery surrounding them is easy enough for Finlay but overcoming the darkness of his guilt will take all the love and strength Sophia possesses.
This book is one of the best second chance romances I’ve ever read. Normally I don’t really much care for the second chance trope because I wind up being unable to get past the wasted time when the couple was separated and clearly should’ve been together and that just makes me sad. But that didn’t happen here, somehow, even though their separation was certainly tragic. The connection between these two was incredibly strong and I loved that it was our heroine who was the first to be open and honest about her feelings and intentions. Both Finlay and Sophia had suffered during their separation, but that just made them all the more eager to be honest with each other and create a bright future together once Finlay overcame his feelings of guilt over his late wife’s death. Those elements made this story very emotional and I loved how Sophia helped Finlay find himself again and the dialogues between them were so sweet. I have so many highlights of Finlay’s dialogues; he was definitely a swoonworthy hero and also excellent at dirty bedroom talk. The chemistry between the two main characters here was electric, the mystery and treachery threaded through this story kept me engrossed and I also found the supporting characters to be charming and endearing. I’m loving this series and the concept of the Order and I’m looking forward to Sloane’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Sophia Adair has given up everything including her love and happiness to protect her sister and guard her secrets for the past seven years. Now someone is meddling with her sister’s delicate mind and Sophia suspects an abduction plot. Sophia has no idea what’s going on and will trust no one but Finlay Cole to help her.
Forced together at secluded Blackborne manor, Finlay and Sophia must be honest with each other in order to help her sister. In doing so, it quickly becomes clear that their feelings for each other are as strong as ever. Solving the mystery surrounding them is easy enough for Finlay but overcoming the darkness of his guilt will take all the love and strength Sophia possesses.
This book is one of the best second chance romances I’ve ever read. Normally I don’t really much care for the second chance trope because I wind up being unable to get past the wasted time when the couple was separated and clearly should’ve been together and that just makes me sad. But that didn’t happen here, somehow, even though their separation was certainly tragic. The connection between these two was incredibly strong and I loved that it was our heroine who was the first to be open and honest about her feelings and intentions. Both Finlay and Sophia had suffered during their separation, but that just made them all the more eager to be honest with each other and create a bright future together once Finlay overcame his feelings of guilt over his late wife’s death. Those elements made this story very emotional and I loved how Sophia helped Finlay find himself again and the dialogues between them were so sweet. I have so many highlights of Finlay’s dialogues; he was definitely a swoonworthy hero and also excellent at dirty bedroom talk. The chemistry between the two main characters here was electric, the mystery and treachery threaded through this story kept me engrossed and I also found the supporting characters to be charming and endearing. I’m loving this series and the concept of the Order and I’m looking forward to Sloane’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 2, 2020
This was an intriguing story that will keep you guessing as to the outcome. Finlay Cole or Raven had a past history with their new client, Sophia, Lady Adair. Raven was handsome and fearless. Sophia cared for her sister, Jessica and was very concerned about the strange happenings of late, hence the need for Raven to investigate. This was a real page turner. Raven and Sophia still had feelings for each other, even though many years had passed and there were a number of misunderstandings. Was it too late for them, given all that had gone before? I just loved the way the other members of the league were there for each other, no questions asked. There were a number of interesting secondary characters and I look forward to reading their stories.
October 8, 2020
First let me say, not only do I love a good mystery, I especially love Ms. Clee's mysteries. Writing mysteries that are kind of dark and spooky but also heartwarming is her specialty. She always writes in a way that it's almost impossible to guess who the villain is. Just like in her other stories, Raven has many suspects and even more twists and turns. Every time you think you have the villain figured out, another mystery is uncovered and throws you off your game. Suddenly the villain you had figured out is not the villain anymore. Or is he?
The characters in Raven are multi-dimensional and never boring. We also get to meet the rest of the 'gang' again. Read the very first paragraph and you are instantly hooked. You won't be able to put down the book until you reach the explosive ending.
**I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advance copy of the book and voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions expressed are mine.
The characters in Raven are multi-dimensional and never boring. We also get to meet the rest of the 'gang' again. Read the very first paragraph and you are instantly hooked. You won't be able to put down the book until you reach the explosive ending.
**I was lucky enough to get my hands on an advance copy of the book and voluntarily read and reviewed it. All opinions expressed are mine.
September 25, 2020
Fabulous Romantic Mystery!
Raven (Finlay Cole) lives up to his name! He is fearless and strong. He assesses what is happening and then acts. Love him!
Then we have Lady Sophia Adair - she is the perfect match for him. Passionate, loyal and caring.
These two deserve a second chance and I'm so glad that they are able to work towards one.
Evil abounds in this story and so the men from the Order, and in particular, Raven, are called in to solve the mystery and bring justice.
I loved the characters and the way every one of them performed. The story is just fabulous. This is one which I couldn't put down and I definitely have to recommend it!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.
Raven (Finlay Cole) lives up to his name! He is fearless and strong. He assesses what is happening and then acts. Love him!
Then we have Lady Sophia Adair - she is the perfect match for him. Passionate, loyal and caring.
These two deserve a second chance and I'm so glad that they are able to work towards one.
Evil abounds in this story and so the men from the Order, and in particular, Raven, are called in to solve the mystery and bring justice.
I loved the characters and the way every one of them performed. The story is just fabulous. This is one which I couldn't put down and I definitely have to recommend it!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.
September 25, 2020
Widow Lady Sophia Adair needs the help of the Gentlemen of the Order. Someone is threatening her sister Jessica Draper, a sister she has been protecting for the last seven years. Lady Sophia wants the help of Finlay Cole in particular, but he is reluctant because of their shared history. Can Cole protect the sisters and determine where and who the threat is coming from. without losing his heart to Sophia, again.
A well-written, entertaining historical mystery and romance story with its likeable main characters. Contains mature content.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A well-written, entertaining historical mystery and romance story with its likeable main characters. Contains mature content.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2020
"Gentlemen of the Order - A group of men who work to right society's injustices. Protect the helpless, serve the needy and bring peace to those tormented by their problems. " What it fails to say is the group of men are dangerously handsome and may provide a threat of their own to the lady's heart!
Finlay Cole aka the Raven due to his black hair, dark eyes, penetrating stare and death followed him like a silent stalker in the shadows... The wounded hero, who is assigned to help his first love, Sophia Adair, the last person he wanted to be around. But she had requested him. He was about to find out so much more he never knew about her.
Lady Sophia is desperate to find out who is trying to harm her sister. So many secrets and events that have taken place since she last saw Cole.
With almost a gothic feel (which I love) as to the suspense and eerie atmosphere, felt more by the excellent descriptions, Adele Clee leads us on an intense yet very satisfying journey or finding answers, while bringing back the feelings of love, thought lost forever.. Brilliant!
Finlay Cole aka the Raven due to his black hair, dark eyes, penetrating stare and death followed him like a silent stalker in the shadows... The wounded hero, who is assigned to help his first love, Sophia Adair, the last person he wanted to be around. But she had requested him. He was about to find out so much more he never knew about her.
Lady Sophia is desperate to find out who is trying to harm her sister. So many secrets and events that have taken place since she last saw Cole.
With almost a gothic feel (which I love) as to the suspense and eerie atmosphere, felt more by the excellent descriptions, Adele Clee leads us on an intense yet very satisfying journey or finding answers, while bringing back the feelings of love, thought lost forever.. Brilliant!
October 3, 2020
WOW, WOW, WOW. Wounded heroes and second chance are my loves. Once again Adele writes a mystery within a love story that will keep you guessing who and why. She is very clever and throws in red herrings and I love it. Misunderstandings run throughout this story. The tension between Raven and Sophia is enough to bring out the fans. You know they will end up together, but the journey is so much fun. The Order is such a great concept (yes it has been done in other stories but it is still great). The brothers in the Order are honorable and loyal. I am telling you now, like I have in just about all my Adele reviews, if you like mystery with your love story check her out. I promise you will not be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
October 20, 2020
Sex with a small side of plot
If all you want is lots of sex in a thinly developed plot then this is the book for you. Adele Clee would never be classified among the great writers but up till this book she’s been better writer than this drivel.
If all you want is lots of sex in a thinly developed plot then this is the book for you. Adele Clee would never be classified among the great writers but up till this book she’s been better writer than this drivel.
October 4, 2020
This is the second book in the Gentlemen of the Order series, and it was just as good as the first if not better. These stories are about a group of men who help solve crimes and help the weak and needy. This is a stand-alone book, but Finlay and Sophia were mentioned in the previous book. I loved this book for a few different reasons, one being it kept me interested in the mystery in the book, it kept me guessing and the second main reason the love between Finlay and Sophia. They never really ever denied the love they had in the past and still share. Of course, like other books by Adele Clee I fell in love with the hero, Finlay, he would lay down his life to protect Sophia. In the book two other Gentlemen of the Order are mentioned so I have to say I can’t wait for the next books. It was my honor to receive a free ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
July 20, 2021
First Love💔, Last Love 💘
This book is a mess of coincidences and miscommunication. The first book I read in this series was better. I was disappointed with this book, two.
I will be reading book three, soon.
This book is a mess of coincidences and miscommunication. The first book I read in this series was better. I was disappointed with this book, two.
I will be reading book three, soon.
October 11, 2020
Raven
Gentlemen of the Order Book 2
by Adele Clee
I was so captivated by this intriguing poignant second chance at love story. I absolutely loved Finlay Cole aka Raven, how could you not fall in love with such a vulnerable and tortured hero?!
Adele Clee creates the best tortured heroes!
And Lady Sophia Adair the most selfless and compassionate heroine, they’re meant to be together!!!
Raven has had such bad luck from the time he went off to war, his life quickly went downhill. It cost him the love of his life. Believing that he was dead she married another to protect her sisters secret. To forget her he married Jane and has been racked with guilt since her death and that of his young daughter!
WOW! Talk about love lost! Since his return he’s been working for the order and has been avoiding Sophia at all costs. Imagine his shock when he’s next assignment is Sophia.
He’s not the type to refuse anyone help, he’s going to go do the job and get it over with. But once there his old feelings for Sophia are bubbling to the surface especially after her shocking revelation. As they work together they realize that they’ve both suffered, their dreams shattered by war long ago.
An intriguing mystery with more than one villain will have the reader guessing and turning the pages for the mystery to be revealed. You will be on tender hooks! Lest I forget my favorite scene is the at the theatre’s broom closet when they finally give in to their slow burn desire, Finley’s heart wrenching words “God, Sophia, everything about you is devine. Everything about you is as I remember. Help to banish the demons in my head. Help to heal my heart. “
Highly recommend!!! Adele Clee writes with a magical pen her characters go through emotional tribulation and heartache for a very well deserved HEA. An unforgettable love story with a hero and heroine who will melt your heart!!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my unbiased opinion.
Gentlemen of the Order Book 2
by Adele Clee
I was so captivated by this intriguing poignant second chance at love story. I absolutely loved Finlay Cole aka Raven, how could you not fall in love with such a vulnerable and tortured hero?!
Adele Clee creates the best tortured heroes!
And Lady Sophia Adair the most selfless and compassionate heroine, they’re meant to be together!!!
Raven has had such bad luck from the time he went off to war, his life quickly went downhill. It cost him the love of his life. Believing that he was dead she married another to protect her sisters secret. To forget her he married Jane and has been racked with guilt since her death and that of his young daughter!
WOW! Talk about love lost! Since his return he’s been working for the order and has been avoiding Sophia at all costs. Imagine his shock when he’s next assignment is Sophia.
He’s not the type to refuse anyone help, he’s going to go do the job and get it over with. But once there his old feelings for Sophia are bubbling to the surface especially after her shocking revelation. As they work together they realize that they’ve both suffered, their dreams shattered by war long ago.
An intriguing mystery with more than one villain will have the reader guessing and turning the pages for the mystery to be revealed. You will be on tender hooks! Lest I forget my favorite scene is the at the theatre’s broom closet when they finally give in to their slow burn desire, Finley’s heart wrenching words “God, Sophia, everything about you is devine. Everything about you is as I remember. Help to banish the demons in my head. Help to heal my heart. “
Highly recommend!!! Adele Clee writes with a magical pen her characters go through emotional tribulation and heartache for a very well deserved HEA. An unforgettable love story with a hero and heroine who will melt your heart!!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my unbiased opinion.
September 24, 2020
Raven is the second of Adele Clee’s Gentlemen of the Order series but can be read as a stand-alone. Involving a secret society of Gentleman who dedicate their lives to helping individuals who normally could not afford justice – the poor and downtrodden, each book features members of the Order.
Finlay Cole is in a dark place and has been for some years. Captured during the war he saves the life of his comrade, escapes and comes back to the news that his love has married someone else. She was told that he had died but it is a betrayal he cannot forget. She had not even waited more than a few months. Trying to move on, he also marries, but it is a troubled union and his wife dies. Years later, he still cannot forgive himself for his wife’s death and is tormented by his longing for the woman who betrayed him. Now a young widow, Lady Sophia Adair flits from party to party seemingly without a care in the world.
The only solace he finds is his work for The Gentleman of the Order. When he is tasked by their leader Lucius Daventry to help solve a mystery for Lady Sophia he is outraged. The last thing he wants is close proximity to the woman. Forced to take on the case, Finlay prays that he can conclude his investigation and put Lady Sophia behind him once and for all.
But in the course of his enquiries, Finlay discovers that Sophia had her reasons for her actions which carry consequences to this day. Maybe it is finally time to let old wounds heal and embrace the happiness within his grasp. But first they have to navigate the mystery surrounding Sophia’s sister and deal with devious doctors, a suspicious stepson and a host of villains before reaching their HEA.
I will be honest and say that second chance romances with unnecessary wasted years in between, and stories where the H&h have had other people in their lives has never been a romance trope that I enjoy. This is why I gave this 4 stars over 5.
I much preferred Finlay over Sophia in this. The reader can identify with his feelings and empathise. Although Sophia had her reasons for her actions, a part of me thinks she maybe could have waited a little longer and she had to be almost unbelievably naïve to not have had any inkling of what the villains were up to for so long. I had much more admiration for Jessica – who withstood so much for so many years.
But this doesn’t take away from the excellent writing of Adele. As with all her stories the reader is sucked into a whirlwind of romance, mystery and action. The story carries you along at a great rate and the motives of the villains are not immediately apparent. The conclusion is immensely satisfying, and the reader feels a connection with her characters. The cast of secondary characters are strong and well developed and I eagerly await Sloane’s story coming up next.
I do recommend you pick this book up and Adele’s previous novels. They are always well written and absorbing. And a special mention to the covers for this series. They are fabulous!
Finlay Cole is in a dark place and has been for some years. Captured during the war he saves the life of his comrade, escapes and comes back to the news that his love has married someone else. She was told that he had died but it is a betrayal he cannot forget. She had not even waited more than a few months. Trying to move on, he also marries, but it is a troubled union and his wife dies. Years later, he still cannot forgive himself for his wife’s death and is tormented by his longing for the woman who betrayed him. Now a young widow, Lady Sophia Adair flits from party to party seemingly without a care in the world.
The only solace he finds is his work for The Gentleman of the Order. When he is tasked by their leader Lucius Daventry to help solve a mystery for Lady Sophia he is outraged. The last thing he wants is close proximity to the woman. Forced to take on the case, Finlay prays that he can conclude his investigation and put Lady Sophia behind him once and for all.
But in the course of his enquiries, Finlay discovers that Sophia had her reasons for her actions which carry consequences to this day. Maybe it is finally time to let old wounds heal and embrace the happiness within his grasp. But first they have to navigate the mystery surrounding Sophia’s sister and deal with devious doctors, a suspicious stepson and a host of villains before reaching their HEA.
I will be honest and say that second chance romances with unnecessary wasted years in between, and stories where the H&h have had other people in their lives has never been a romance trope that I enjoy. This is why I gave this 4 stars over 5.
I much preferred Finlay over Sophia in this. The reader can identify with his feelings and empathise. Although Sophia had her reasons for her actions, a part of me thinks she maybe could have waited a little longer and she had to be almost unbelievably naïve to not have had any inkling of what the villains were up to for so long. I had much more admiration for Jessica – who withstood so much for so many years.
But this doesn’t take away from the excellent writing of Adele. As with all her stories the reader is sucked into a whirlwind of romance, mystery and action. The story carries you along at a great rate and the motives of the villains are not immediately apparent. The conclusion is immensely satisfying, and the reader feels a connection with her characters. The cast of secondary characters are strong and well developed and I eagerly await Sloane’s story coming up next.
I do recommend you pick this book up and Adele’s previous novels. They are always well written and absorbing. And a special mention to the covers for this series. They are fabulous!
October 7, 2020
Raven is a stubborn character to pull from the shadows
Let me preface this review by saying that Adele Clee is one of my all-time favorite authors. Most all of her books are easily 5-star reads.
Raven and Sophia's story has all the elements of a second chance love story, and on that mark it scores a huge win. Sophia is a really likable heroine, and the threat to both her and her sister, is engrossing and unnerving, as is the mystery surrounding that threat. Especially considering the investigative twists and turns within the plot.
My only issue was with Raven. I suspect that Raven was a difficult character to pull from the shadows and fully flesh out. He seemed to resist every effort by this talented author to go deep within his heart, mind and soul. On every level, he lived up to his elusive moniker. Just like the ebony winged bird, he peeked out a bit, only to shrink back into the shadows. Thankfully, by the sweet and smile-worthy last chapter, he entrusted his wounded heart to the only woman he could ever love.
Content 411: Although there is a light amount of secular and religious swearing, there are sexually explicit terms and several onscreen sexual encounters that are descriptive.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Let me preface this review by saying that Adele Clee is one of my all-time favorite authors. Most all of her books are easily 5-star reads.
Raven and Sophia's story has all the elements of a second chance love story, and on that mark it scores a huge win. Sophia is a really likable heroine, and the threat to both her and her sister, is engrossing and unnerving, as is the mystery surrounding that threat. Especially considering the investigative twists and turns within the plot.
My only issue was with Raven. I suspect that Raven was a difficult character to pull from the shadows and fully flesh out. He seemed to resist every effort by this talented author to go deep within his heart, mind and soul. On every level, he lived up to his elusive moniker. Just like the ebony winged bird, he peeked out a bit, only to shrink back into the shadows. Thankfully, by the sweet and smile-worthy last chapter, he entrusted his wounded heart to the only woman he could ever love.
Content 411: Although there is a light amount of secular and religious swearing, there are sexually explicit terms and several onscreen sexual encounters that are descriptive.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
September 26, 2020
WOW, what a story. This is the second book in the Gentleman of the Order. The order is made up of wealthy Gentleman who have joined together to help those who cannot pay find justice.
Finlay Cole is an ex solider who was captured during the war. He escaped saving the lives of his men.
When he gets home, he finds out the love of his life, Sophia has married a friend of her fathers. A man many years older than her. His heart is broken, and he is believing even after he finds out she was told he had died she should have waited. He tries to move on marring a young lady know to his family.
But she has hidden problems and no matter how hard he tried to save her she died three years ago.
Finlay has been in a dark hole ever since. Now he is being told by his boss that Sophia needs help and he is the only one who can take the job. He can't even be in the same room with her and not think of all he lost when she married other. He still wants her. How can he do his investigation with her there.
Lady Sophia Adair has a lot of secrets, her life has not been what she wanted. She married an older gentleman when she thought her one true love had been killed. She married to save a other.
She never loved her husband as her hear has always belonged to only Finlay Cole.
Now she needs his help as there are many secrets and hidden truths coming out.
Someone is out to hurt her sister Jessica. Jessica had an accident seven years ago. She has not been the same since.
This story has so much going on and the reader needs to find out in order so as not to ruin the story.
There are witches maybe, secret messages being sent at night, Dr Goodwin who is keeping lots of
secrets. Blent the keeper of the dogs, and helper to watch Jessica is also not what he seems.
The evil, nasty stepson Fitzroy. And let's not forget the housekeeper Mrs. Friswell
Is Jessica mentally unstable ? Has Sophia been so scared for her sister she has not seen things clearly ?
Will Finlay and Sophia finally find a happy ever after ? Will the bad guys win?
So much to uncover and find out.
This is a very fast-moving story with lots of drama, excitement, and evil.
What a great book. I can't wait to see what the next book holds.
I received and ARC from the author and want to thank her. I am giving my honest opinion voluntarily.
Finlay Cole is an ex solider who was captured during the war. He escaped saving the lives of his men.
When he gets home, he finds out the love of his life, Sophia has married a friend of her fathers. A man many years older than her. His heart is broken, and he is believing even after he finds out she was told he had died she should have waited. He tries to move on marring a young lady know to his family.
But she has hidden problems and no matter how hard he tried to save her she died three years ago.
Finlay has been in a dark hole ever since. Now he is being told by his boss that Sophia needs help and he is the only one who can take the job. He can't even be in the same room with her and not think of all he lost when she married other. He still wants her. How can he do his investigation with her there.
Lady Sophia Adair has a lot of secrets, her life has not been what she wanted. She married an older gentleman when she thought her one true love had been killed. She married to save a other.
She never loved her husband as her hear has always belonged to only Finlay Cole.
Now she needs his help as there are many secrets and hidden truths coming out.
Someone is out to hurt her sister Jessica. Jessica had an accident seven years ago. She has not been the same since.
This story has so much going on and the reader needs to find out in order so as not to ruin the story.
There are witches maybe, secret messages being sent at night, Dr Goodwin who is keeping lots of
secrets. Blent the keeper of the dogs, and helper to watch Jessica is also not what he seems.
The evil, nasty stepson Fitzroy. And let's not forget the housekeeper Mrs. Friswell
Is Jessica mentally unstable ? Has Sophia been so scared for her sister she has not seen things clearly ?
Will Finlay and Sophia finally find a happy ever after ? Will the bad guys win?
So much to uncover and find out.
This is a very fast-moving story with lots of drama, excitement, and evil.
What a great book. I can't wait to see what the next book holds.
I received and ARC from the author and want to thank her. I am giving my honest opinion voluntarily.
October 8, 2020
The past present and future
Finlay is a widower and Sophia is a widow both mates not really their choosing! I have read many stories of star crossed lovers interfering relatives by the dozens but this is on an unfathomable level that waa literally mind in the extreme! Initially Sophia married to protect her sister Jessica but she was deceived! The diabolical doctor and his accomplices used Jessica and Sophia for over 7 years with a plan so intricate and bizarre I cried at the of cruelty and greed but fate takes care of their own! The order rallies around Finlay to offer aid when Daventry reveals this is the Ravens case and no one else! Finlay is analytical and reviews all of the facts and sees great holes in the story immediately! Once he realizes the nightmare both women have lived in he realizes his love for Sophia and hers for him never wavered but there is a madman or mad women involved can a new found love survive?
Finlay is a widower and Sophia is a widow both mates not really their choosing! I have read many stories of star crossed lovers interfering relatives by the dozens but this is on an unfathomable level that waa literally mind in the extreme! Initially Sophia married to protect her sister Jessica but she was deceived! The diabolical doctor and his accomplices used Jessica and Sophia for over 7 years with a plan so intricate and bizarre I cried at the of cruelty and greed but fate takes care of their own! The order rallies around Finlay to offer aid when Daventry reveals this is the Ravens case and no one else! Finlay is analytical and reviews all of the facts and sees great holes in the story immediately! Once he realizes the nightmare both women have lived in he realizes his love for Sophia and hers for him never wavered but there is a madman or mad women involved can a new found love survive?
September 28, 2020
I knew from the blurb that the lead characters in this story had been one another’s first loves, and each had ended up marrying other people. They are now in a situation where something terrible is happening, but it is simultaneously giving them a chance to reconnect because Sophie, the female lead character, has gone to The Order to plead for help from enquiry agent Cole. It is not necessarily a story I would have ordinarily chosen to read. They were in love but each married another person? Why?? That is so sad. I decided to read it because Adele Clee is a fantastic author. I am so glad I took a chance, because this book was incredible!
I am treading carefully here because I don’t want to give any spoilers, or even anything close to hinting at a spoiler. Cole (also known as Raven) is a character we met in ‘Dauntless’, the first book of the series. It was clear in that story that we needed to hear so much more about him. Well, this is his heartbreaking and wonderful story. Sophie is fascinating and frustrating as we try to understand why she has done what she has done, and figure out if there is any chance of a future for her and Cole.
The plot in this book is terrific – well thought out, intriguing, full of twists and turns and unexpected happenings. It went several places I never expected. The story has tragic, tearful moments, happy tearful moments, a-ha moments and joyful moments. The characters are multi-dimensional and the dialogue so well done that you feel the emotions. The author orchestrates everything like a Symphony with a dazzling crescendo. I highly recommend this book and I really am anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
I am treading carefully here because I don’t want to give any spoilers, or even anything close to hinting at a spoiler. Cole (also known as Raven) is a character we met in ‘Dauntless’, the first book of the series. It was clear in that story that we needed to hear so much more about him. Well, this is his heartbreaking and wonderful story. Sophie is fascinating and frustrating as we try to understand why she has done what she has done, and figure out if there is any chance of a future for her and Cole.
The plot in this book is terrific – well thought out, intriguing, full of twists and turns and unexpected happenings. It went several places I never expected. The story has tragic, tearful moments, happy tearful moments, a-ha moments and joyful moments. The characters are multi-dimensional and the dialogue so well done that you feel the emotions. The author orchestrates everything like a Symphony with a dazzling crescendo. I highly recommend this book and I really am anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
October 7, 2020
Adele Clee is so good @ writing an opening chapter that grabs me & makes me keep reading! Finlay Cole is known as Raven in the Order. When he’s informed that Sophia Adair has specifically requested his help, he is not pleased. Daventry does not give him a choice.
We know from the last book in the series that Sophia & Finlay have history. Turns out their history is complicated & heartbreaking. They once meant everything to one another, but a cruel series of events drove them apart.
As Finlay & Sophia seek to protect her sister, & untangle the mystery of who means her harm, they discover their feelings for one another are as strong as ever. Highly recommend this mystery intermingled with a second chance romance.
We know from the last book in the series that Sophia & Finlay have history. Turns out their history is complicated & heartbreaking. They once meant everything to one another, but a cruel series of events drove them apart.
As Finlay & Sophia seek to protect her sister, & untangle the mystery of who means her harm, they discover their feelings for one another are as strong as ever. Highly recommend this mystery intermingled with a second chance romance.
September 27, 2020
The Gentlemen of the Order, Raven (Finlay Cole) in this second case in the series, has been dispatched to solve an evil plan full of villains, suspense, mystery & danger. This "whodunit" leads you to one suspect & then another - you do not know who until near the end. Moreover, you have a wonderful second chance romance between Finlay & Sophia.
Finlay is a ex-soldier & when he returned from war seven years ago, he discovered his true love (or so he thought) had married a friend of her father & was 25 years her senior. He still has nightmares from the loss of love & the flashbacks of his war capture & imprisonment. He will never go near Sophia again but now he is forced to come to her aid in a protection, crime solving assignment for the Order.
Sophia Adair was told Finlay had been killed in the war and add to that her sister was faced with scandal & to save her, Sophia married her father's friend. She finds herself widowed & now her sister's safety is being threatened & she requests Finlay's help from the Men of the Order as he is the only person she can trust.
Can they put past feelings aside & work together in solving the threats against Sophia's sister? There are several characters that may or may not be what they seem to be & evil abounds in the dark, eerie house & surrounding forest. Can Finlay & Sophia overcome their past mistakes & obtain a second chance for love? This is another wonderful, well written book by Adele Clee with wonderful characters & a fascinating story.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Finlay is a ex-soldier & when he returned from war seven years ago, he discovered his true love (or so he thought) had married a friend of her father & was 25 years her senior. He still has nightmares from the loss of love & the flashbacks of his war capture & imprisonment. He will never go near Sophia again but now he is forced to come to her aid in a protection, crime solving assignment for the Order.
Sophia Adair was told Finlay had been killed in the war and add to that her sister was faced with scandal & to save her, Sophia married her father's friend. She finds herself widowed & now her sister's safety is being threatened & she requests Finlay's help from the Men of the Order as he is the only person she can trust.
Can they put past feelings aside & work together in solving the threats against Sophia's sister? There are several characters that may or may not be what they seem to be & evil abounds in the dark, eerie house & surrounding forest. Can Finlay & Sophia overcome their past mistakes & obtain a second chance for love? This is another wonderful, well written book by Adele Clee with wonderful characters & a fascinating story.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
September 27, 2020
This is what I call an excellent "edge of your seat" kind of story! Every time I'd think "I know who's behind it", the author would throw in a little twist!! Adele Clee has done it again, written a story that pulls you in from the first to last page.
I loved Finlay and Sophia's story, you can actually feel their passion for each other, as well as the hurting they've endured for the last 7 years. Although Finlay has vowed not to get involved with Sophia again, he finds himself having to work with her to solve the mystery behind her sister's illness and passions soon flare up, ones they can't resist. Clues to the mystery pile up and with a few twists and turns, everything comes to a head with a few surprises thrown in.
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved Finlay and Sophia's story, you can actually feel their passion for each other, as well as the hurting they've endured for the last 7 years. Although Finlay has vowed not to get involved with Sophia again, he finds himself having to work with her to solve the mystery behind her sister's illness and passions soon flare up, ones they can't resist. Clues to the mystery pile up and with a few twists and turns, everything comes to a head with a few surprises thrown in.
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 27, 2020
This is a great story that contains reuniting with a first love, deception and danger. Sophia’s sister, Jessica is being manipulated and drugged and only Finlay seems to be able to unravel all that is going on. The love between Finlay and Sophia flares to life and everything works out in the end. I enjoyed this story, it is well written and full of emotions. It is a great story that I would highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a review.
February 25, 2022
Brimming with suspense & evocative characters that flare your curiosity and suck you in!
Man it's crazy how much I love this series with it's dynamic gentlemen of the Order and the remarkable ladies they fall hopelessly under the spell of. As this, the second book, proves to be just as engaging as the first. (Though in no way do you have to have read book 1 first to enjoy this)
Haunting secrets, masked desires, soulful yearning, malicious intentions, misplaced guilt, trust and betrayal, sacrifice and survival, all collide and blur in this well crafted tale that appears almost gothic in the atmospheric.
The attraction between Sophia and Finlay emits a raw intimacy and simmering chemistry that builds from the rekindling of burning desire and a deep, passionate, first love thought forever lost. The pair work together, against unknown forces, to save the sanity of a much beloved sister.
An emotionally tortured, reluctant hero, a desperate heroine in need of help, a whole sea full of past romantic history and an ever encroaching threat, wraps you up in a sinister web of hovering tension and mysterious conundrums you find yourself racking her brain to solve. I found myself thirsting for snippets of information and hunting out clues, in misplaced reactions, suspicious responses and revelations, all in the hope of unraveling the suspicious goings on. I thoroughly enjoyed being swept along by the plot as it kept me guessing until the end and enthralled by the wonderfully well-deep characters that brought it to life and tugged at my heartstrings. Whilst, I admired, blushed and hummed with anticipation at the pair's yearnful musings, smouldering cravings and quest for answers in this, their bumpy road to a happily ever after.
A fabulous and worthy read; I can't wait for the release of Valiant.
Man it's crazy how much I love this series with it's dynamic gentlemen of the Order and the remarkable ladies they fall hopelessly under the spell of. As this, the second book, proves to be just as engaging as the first. (Though in no way do you have to have read book 1 first to enjoy this)
Haunting secrets, masked desires, soulful yearning, malicious intentions, misplaced guilt, trust and betrayal, sacrifice and survival, all collide and blur in this well crafted tale that appears almost gothic in the atmospheric.
The attraction between Sophia and Finlay emits a raw intimacy and simmering chemistry that builds from the rekindling of burning desire and a deep, passionate, first love thought forever lost. The pair work together, against unknown forces, to save the sanity of a much beloved sister.
An emotionally tortured, reluctant hero, a desperate heroine in need of help, a whole sea full of past romantic history and an ever encroaching threat, wraps you up in a sinister web of hovering tension and mysterious conundrums you find yourself racking her brain to solve. I found myself thirsting for snippets of information and hunting out clues, in misplaced reactions, suspicious responses and revelations, all in the hope of unraveling the suspicious goings on. I thoroughly enjoyed being swept along by the plot as it kept me guessing until the end and enthralled by the wonderfully well-deep characters that brought it to life and tugged at my heartstrings. Whilst, I admired, blushed and hummed with anticipation at the pair's yearnful musings, smouldering cravings and quest for answers in this, their bumpy road to a happily ever after.
A fabulous and worthy read; I can't wait for the release of Valiant.
January 3, 2022
This book was too stupid I could not suspend my disbelief. The portrayal of mental health was inaccurate. The portrayal of opiate addiction was inaccurate. Which is unfortunate given that the plot revolved around those portrayals.
The heroine was as dumb as a box of rocks. She seriously suspected nothing for years when everyone around her was being obviously sneaky.
The romance left a lot to be desired. The conflict between them depended upon a history that barely got explored in the story. So it made the hero seem unreasonable in holding on to a grudge against the heroine without really diving into his motives and thought process. Plus, their first sex scene is literally a quickie in a closet, which does not offer the emotional buildup and cathartic release that a first sex scene should have.
And I was bored. I found neither the characters or the plot engaging.
The heroine was as dumb as a box of rocks. She seriously suspected nothing for years when everyone around her was being obviously sneaky.
The romance left a lot to be desired. The conflict between them depended upon a history that barely got explored in the story. So it made the hero seem unreasonable in holding on to a grudge against the heroine without really diving into his motives and thought process. Plus, their first sex scene is literally a quickie in a closet, which does not offer the emotional buildup and cathartic release that a first sex scene should have.
And I was bored. I found neither the characters or the plot engaging.
February 15, 2024
God, what nonsense is this... It is simply impossible to find more worthless main characters: the hero prefers to die constantly risking himself, because he is consumed by guilt over the death of his wife, whom he did not love because he loved another woman, and she did not wait for him and married someone else. But now they have been free from tanks for many years and can try to be together, but he prefers to suffer, be depressed and dreams of dying, denies himself even the fleeting satisfaction of his physical needs, for years he avoids and runs away from the woman whom he loves and who is ready to throw herself at him . The heroine is such an indescribable fool, I’ve never met anyone like her before: for seven whole years she doesn’t notice under her nose that her own sister is not crazy, that perhaps she’s being deceived and cheated out of her money, because you don’t need an inquiry agent to just talk to your sister, to deceive time with her, talk to the servants, in extreme cases, show her to other doctors with all your money or take her abroad. I'm just crazy, what can you do for so many years without noticing anything around you? And of course, the author blamed the group of villains, but the heroine herself is to blame for not wanting to notice anything and not wanting to do anything. And so the two idiots came together as if for me only because the heroine wanted to lure him into her company. As for their relationship, there is none: they don’t talk, they hardly discuss the past in order to understand and forgive, the heroine resembles a trashy whore who thinks only about the hero’s penis and wants sex either in the closet or in the carriage... there is no romance between them in general, their relationship is no different from if the hero went to a brothel to a whore to quench his lust. He could have slept with this whore long ago if he had not run away from her. The ending also killed me: all the villains self-destructed, and the heroine, who had done nothing for seven years to help her sister, suddenly runs to risk her life to save the villainous servant. In general, complete nonsense, only inconsistencies in the plot. The author has several interesting books, but definitely not this one.
December 24, 2020
Raven weaves a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, mystery, and treachery as a web of deceit and deception is spun that will hold you spellbound from the moment you begin the journey with Finley and Sophia until the very end! Adele Clee has written a heart-stopping story that is filled with tension-building twist, a story filled with characters that come off the pages and pulls you into their tale, that is smoothly written, with a superb plott, and great dialogue. As Finley agrees to help Sophia to find the answer to the sinister happenings at Blackborne, they will find themselves trying to find the love they lost several years ago once more. They find themselves spiraling down into a vortex of mystery and anguish in this heart stopping love story as the conspiracy unfolds with drama, sizzling passion, mistakes, angst and as the tensions escalates the suspense builds and uncertainties abound that will bring to light all the pieces of the puzzle together and will keep you reading to the end. It is so enjoyable to read stories that are all truly individual to the character and revisiting characters from Dauntless. Adele has outdone herself with this novel that is a must read!
June 4, 2021
Book 2 of the Gentlemen of the Order series was better than the first in the series. There was a chemistry and passion that the first book lacked, but perhaps that's because the two main characters in this book had a romantic history that the first did not.
The angst and drama were high in this book, and rightly so. The mysteries to be unraveled were pretty mind-boggling and kept the reader glued to the words to find even a hint of clarity. The passion, chemistry, and romance were excellent as well.
As the two main characters and their friends got remotely close to solving a mystery, it almost immediately morphed and took a turn they, as well as the reader, found quite unexpected. It was like walking up to an oasis in the desert, only to find out it was a mirage that forced them to go further for the truth.
This second book in the series was decidedly better than the first and, while it was a very good mystery novel, it was an even better love story that definitely earned its place with the Keeper for the Shelves books.
The angst and drama were high in this book, and rightly so. The mysteries to be unraveled were pretty mind-boggling and kept the reader glued to the words to find even a hint of clarity. The passion, chemistry, and romance were excellent as well.
As the two main characters and their friends got remotely close to solving a mystery, it almost immediately morphed and took a turn they, as well as the reader, found quite unexpected. It was like walking up to an oasis in the desert, only to find out it was a mirage that forced them to go further for the truth.
This second book in the series was decidedly better than the first and, while it was a very good mystery novel, it was an even better love story that definitely earned its place with the Keeper for the Shelves books.
September 16, 2023
This was super fun - second chance, semi-forced proximity with a good dose of mystery and lots of beautiful and elegantly steamy moments between our h&h.
I really enjoyed all the time they spent together talking and clearing their pasts up, adding pinches of LOL humour to the mix.
The mystery, as some of it was glaringly clear to me from the start, in the end I had to relisten to the "reveal" since I could not picture all of the different names involved in it that popped up. This book is more than an adorable romance, the mystery plot is as important and quite fun adding to the spice!
I wouldn't say it blew me away in terms of writing or story, but this was sure fun and investing so will be diving into this author's backlist!
Format: audiobook
I really enjoyed all the time they spent together talking and clearing their pasts up, adding pinches of LOL humour to the mix.
The mystery, as some of it was glaringly clear to me from the start, in the end I had to relisten to the "reveal" since I could not picture all of the different names involved in it that popped up. This book is more than an adorable romance, the mystery plot is as important and quite fun adding to the spice!
I wouldn't say it blew me away in terms of writing or story, but this was sure fun and investing so will be diving into this author's backlist!
Format: audiobook
March 6, 2021
Loved this book
You can never go wrong reading Sale Code. Her stories are wonderful, and I have never been disappointed. This story of Sophia and Finley had a bit of everything, especially second chances. The order is a group of men who solve cases those less fortunate, though in Sophia's case he requested Finley to personally handle her concerns. There are lots of twists turns , mystery and adventure in this book, it was hard to put down to catch some sleep. We do get to know the other members of the order and I will be reading the next book in the series. Enjoy this book, I certainly did...
You can never go wrong reading Sale Code. Her stories are wonderful, and I have never been disappointed. This story of Sophia and Finley had a bit of everything, especially second chances. The order is a group of men who solve cases those less fortunate, though in Sophia's case he requested Finley to personally handle her concerns. There are lots of twists turns , mystery and adventure in this book, it was hard to put down to catch some sleep. We do get to know the other members of the order and I will be reading the next book in the series. Enjoy this book, I certainly did...
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