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Notorious Ladies of London #3
Lady Reckless
Lady Helena Davenport is desperate to avoid the odious betrothal her father is forcing upon her. The only way out is to orchestrate her own ruination. Everything is unfolding according to plan, her escape finally within her grasp. But there is just one problem when the moment of scandal arrives: the rake she selected for an assignation is nowhere to be found. In his place? The man she secretly loves.
Gabriel, the notoriously proper Earl of Huntingdon, is outraged when he discovers his best friend’s innocent sister, Lady Helena, has decided to give herself to a scoundrel. His impeccable sense of honor will not allow such a travesty to occur. When Gabe confronts her, the last thing he expects is to find himself tempted to commit wickedness.
Fortunately, Gabe is strong enough to resist. After all, he already has a betrothed of his own. However, he is now tasked with the unhappy duty of following about Lady Helena to keep her from committing further folly. And the more time he spends with the infuriating minx, the more impossible it is to resist her.
Helena is running out of time to save herself from an unhappy marriage. With the Earl of Huntingdon haunting her every move to keep her from ruining herself, her hope is dwindling. Until she settles upon the one certain means of securing her freedom, even if it means she risks making Huntingdon hate her forever…
Gabriel, the notoriously proper Earl of Huntingdon, is outraged when he discovers his best friend’s innocent sister, Lady Helena, has decided to give herself to a scoundrel. His impeccable sense of honor will not allow such a travesty to occur. When Gabe confronts her, the last thing he expects is to find himself tempted to commit wickedness.
Fortunately, Gabe is strong enough to resist. After all, he already has a betrothed of his own. However, he is now tasked with the unhappy duty of following about Lady Helena to keep her from committing further folly. And the more time he spends with the infuriating minx, the more impossible it is to resist her.
Helena is running out of time to save herself from an unhappy marriage. With the Earl of Huntingdon haunting her every move to keep her from ruining herself, her hope is dwindling. Until she settles upon the one certain means of securing her freedom, even if it means she risks making Huntingdon hate her forever…
332 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2020
1482 people are currently reading
641 people want to read
About the author
Scarlett Scott
121 books1,568 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 157 reviews
April 12, 2024
4.25 Stars on re-read!
What an utterly delectable read. Scarlett Scott is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors.
The Plot
Lady Helena, to save herself from an impending marriage betrothal to a chauvinistic jackass, has decided to get herself ruined. Her problem? Gabriel the Earl of Huntingdon, the man she has been in love with for years (also her brother's best friend) is hell-bent on not letting her ruin herself & keeps thwarting her efforts. Gabe's problems? Apart from his obvious honour-bound duty to save his friend's sister, he cannot seem to resist her! Oh let's not forget that he is betrothed to another or the fact he believes love or lust have no place in a marriage, for him apathy is the way to go. In a last-ditch reckless attempt, Helena has managed to trap the man she loves in a marriage he did not ask for, making the road to everlasting happiness rife with difficulty.
What I loved
- I am running out of ways to creatively describe Ms Scott's writing style, it works very effectively for me as a reader.
- "Trapped in marriage deliberately" trope is not common, so I particularly enjoyed reading it in this story.
- As I have said in my previous reviews of Ms Scott's books, her characters are fresh and unique. The development, chemistry, wit and charm drip through in the novels, as they did in this one too.
- The title of this is book is on the mark. It has delivered what it promised to deliver. The story and characters never stray from the central plotline.
- At crucial pivot points for characters' personal development, instead of foolish & rash actions on their account which inevitably lead to "a big misunderstanding" (which can be terribly boring & predictable) they acted calmly & rationally even asked for help, was a refreshing change of pace.
- Ms Scott has a knack for introducing supporting characters in some detail only when they get their own stories, so naturally, I am looking forward to reading Julianna & Sidney's (I forget his courtesy title) stories.
What took away 0.75 stars
- The novel felt a little longer than necessary. It got a smidge repetitive which could have been shaved off making it crisper.
- When Gabe's big reveal came it was like a wet blanket of harshness to douse the flames of cuteness of budding romance that was being lit.
- Content Warning:
The Hero
I have a particular weakness for heroes named Gabriel so obviously, I immediately liked him. Said weakness aside Gabe was an absolutely endearing character. Initially, I thought, here we go, another hero with "I do not believe in love because my parents set a horrible example, duty & honour is everything" complex. But no, his reaction to the trauma was fair as the story unfolded. Even so, Gabe oozed cuteness, the way he was following Helena around to make sure she did not ruin herself, his attempts at resisting her, chastising himself for being unable to resist her and even his drunken behaviour was so damn charming. Kudos on the character development.
The Heroine
Victorian era or no, one got to love a heroine who decides to take matters into her own hands to save herself, not waiting for a fairy godmother or a prince or knight in shining armour, after pursuing the obvious and logical course of action. What I loved about Helena was that she felt real, possible. She was a force of will & strength with a head on her shoulders unwilling to give up. The way she was navigating her circumstances made me root for her. She was lovely, rational, loving and the endearment of hellion bestowed upon her was apt.
My Recommendation
Of the 18 Scarlett Scott books I have read, I loved 16 of them this one is most definitely amongst them. I am rushing through this because I cannot wait to start the next one in the series, need I say more?
What an utterly delectable read. Scarlett Scott is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors.
The Plot
Lady Helena, to save herself from an impending marriage betrothal to a chauvinistic jackass, has decided to get herself ruined. Her problem? Gabriel the Earl of Huntingdon, the man she has been in love with for years (also her brother's best friend) is hell-bent on not letting her ruin herself & keeps thwarting her efforts. Gabe's problems? Apart from his obvious honour-bound duty to save his friend's sister, he cannot seem to resist her! Oh let's not forget that he is betrothed to another or the fact he believes love or lust have no place in a marriage, for him apathy is the way to go. In a last-ditch reckless attempt, Helena has managed to trap the man she loves in a marriage he did not ask for, making the road to everlasting happiness rife with difficulty.
What I loved
- I am running out of ways to creatively describe Ms Scott's writing style, it works very effectively for me as a reader.
- "Trapped in marriage deliberately" trope is not common, so I particularly enjoyed reading it in this story.
- As I have said in my previous reviews of Ms Scott's books, her characters are fresh and unique. The development, chemistry, wit and charm drip through in the novels, as they did in this one too.
- The title of this is book is on the mark. It has delivered what it promised to deliver. The story and characters never stray from the central plotline.
- At crucial pivot points for characters' personal development, instead of foolish & rash actions on their account which inevitably lead to "a big misunderstanding" (which can be terribly boring & predictable) they acted calmly & rationally even asked for help, was a refreshing change of pace.
- Ms Scott has a knack for introducing supporting characters in some detail only when they get their own stories, so naturally, I am looking forward to reading Julianna & Sidney's (I forget his courtesy title) stories.
What took away 0.75 stars
- The novel felt a little longer than necessary. It got a smidge repetitive which could have been shaved off making it crisper.
- When Gabe's big reveal came it was like a wet blanket of harshness to douse the flames of cuteness of budding romance that was being lit.
- Content Warning:
The Hero
I have a particular weakness for heroes named Gabriel so obviously, I immediately liked him. Said weakness aside Gabe was an absolutely endearing character. Initially, I thought, here we go, another hero with "I do not believe in love because my parents set a horrible example, duty & honour is everything" complex. But no, his reaction to the trauma was fair as the story unfolded. Even so, Gabe oozed cuteness, the way he was following Helena around to make sure she did not ruin herself, his attempts at resisting her, chastising himself for being unable to resist her and even his drunken behaviour was so damn charming. Kudos on the character development.
The Heroine
Victorian era or no, one got to love a heroine who decides to take matters into her own hands to save herself, not waiting for a fairy godmother or a prince or knight in shining armour, after pursuing the obvious and logical course of action. What I loved about Helena was that she felt real, possible. She was a force of will & strength with a head on her shoulders unwilling to give up. The way she was navigating her circumstances made me root for her. She was lovely, rational, loving and the endearment of hellion bestowed upon her was apt.
My Recommendation
Of the 18 Scarlett Scott books I have read, I loved 16 of them this one is most definitely amongst them. I am rushing through this because I cannot wait to start the next one in the series, need I say more?
January 27, 2021
Omg, I finally finished this book!
Okay, first of all I really liked Helena in the beginning of this book. So much so that when she manipulated the love of her life into a trap for her to not marry another man and put her brother and his best friend at odds, I really disliked her. And I couldn't like her anymore. I am not even sure I liked him.
I absolutely loved book two, but this one was a miss for me. There's still plenty of steam but the rest was very meh. Not sure I will read the next book of the series.
2 ⭐ out of spite!
Okay, first of all I really liked Helena in the beginning of this book. So much so that when she manipulated the love of her life into a trap for her to not marry another man and put her brother and his best friend at odds, I really disliked her. And I couldn't like her anymore. I am not even sure I liked him.
I absolutely loved book two, but this one was a miss for me. There's still plenty of steam but the rest was very meh. Not sure I will read the next book of the series.
2 ⭐ out of spite!
November 15, 2020
This book has everything to be angsty enough alas both MCs were too civil and understanding. 🤦🏻♀️
May 1, 2023
This one pulled off a Trope I do not like in a very classy way.
Love how they changed for each other.
Love the narration as well.
4 stars
3 on the slice scale
Love how they changed for each other.
Love the narration as well.
4 stars
3 on the slice scale
October 21, 2020
The character and relationship development in this story were shallow and, frankly, depressing.
The heroine, Helena, is said to be a suffragette, and yet her love interest, Gabe, makes it brutally clear over and over (and over and over and over) that he doesn’t respect her smarts, her autonomy, or her loyalty.
Helena has been in love with Gabe since childhood, yet we get no scenes that suggest any rapport in their past. Gabe’s whole schtick is that he feels protective of her because he cares her brother and has known her for so long...but there are no fun scenes about their friendship.
And once they are married, Gabe treats his wife with cold disgust-except when they’re having sex and he’s talking about how much he wishes he didn’t want to have sex with her. She says she loves him throughout their marriage, and he says he loves her there at the end....but there’s little in their behavior that is loving. It’s all so empty.
Much of the plot is based around Gabe’s obsession with duty and his resistance to falling in love. His duty is mostly expressed through disgust. His internal monologue for 75 percent of the novel: “I hate myself for lusting after Helena. I hate Helena for drawing that lust out of me and making me behave against my morals.” I can’t count the number of slut-shaming thoughts and comments Gabe has about his wife in this book (which would be unpleasant when referring to any character, but is especially absurd considering she was a virgin). At first, it repelled me because there’s nothing less romantic, in my view, as a man who judges a woman because he wants her, but eventually it just bored me?
This one disappointed me because I love best-friends-little-sister plots and suffragette heroines and staid-heroes-whose-wives-loosen-them-up. And the idea of a woman trying to escape a forced marriage by ruining herself has a lot of potential! The author could’ve gone with a dark dramatic romantic rescue or even comedic hijinks. I would like to read another author take on this plot!
The heroine, Helena, is said to be a suffragette, and yet her love interest, Gabe, makes it brutally clear over and over (and over and over and over) that he doesn’t respect her smarts, her autonomy, or her loyalty.
Helena has been in love with Gabe since childhood, yet we get no scenes that suggest any rapport in their past. Gabe’s whole schtick is that he feels protective of her because he cares her brother and has known her for so long...but there are no fun scenes about their friendship.
And once they are married, Gabe treats his wife with cold disgust-except when they’re having sex and he’s talking about how much he wishes he didn’t want to have sex with her. She says she loves him throughout their marriage, and he says he loves her there at the end....but there’s little in their behavior that is loving. It’s all so empty.
Much of the plot is based around Gabe’s obsession with duty and his resistance to falling in love. His duty is mostly expressed through disgust. His internal monologue for 75 percent of the novel: “I hate myself for lusting after Helena. I hate Helena for drawing that lust out of me and making me behave against my morals.” I can’t count the number of slut-shaming thoughts and comments Gabe has about his wife in this book (which would be unpleasant when referring to any character, but is especially absurd considering she was a virgin). At first, it repelled me because there’s nothing less romantic, in my view, as a man who judges a woman because he wants her, but eventually it just bored me?
This one disappointed me because I love best-friends-little-sister plots and suffragette heroines and staid-heroes-whose-wives-loosen-them-up. And the idea of a woman trying to escape a forced marriage by ruining herself has a lot of potential! The author could’ve gone with a dark dramatic romantic rescue or even comedic hijinks. I would like to read another author take on this plot!
July 20, 2021
Scarlett Scott has done it again. I have read hundreds and hundreds of authors and Scarlett Scott is one of my all time favorites. Damn but she writes a great book and her sex scenes are so well written and yummy.
I read over 380 books a year but when I read her books, I get so lost, I look up from reading and have to think about where I am and what's going on. I read anywhere from 30-90 books before her next new release comes out but when I read that new book of hers, it just reminds me how good she really is and hate when it ends. I loved this whole series. This story was so good. Lady Helena Davenport and Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon are such awesome characters. I love the concept that he thinks he's safe because he is already betrothed. HAHAHA! Helena was such a spitfire and strong character. Just loved it!
Can' wait for the next one.
I read over 380 books a year but when I read her books, I get so lost, I look up from reading and have to think about where I am and what's going on. I read anywhere from 30-90 books before her next new release comes out but when I read that new book of hers, it just reminds me how good she really is and hate when it ends. I loved this whole series. This story was so good. Lady Helena Davenport and Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon are such awesome characters. I love the concept that he thinks he's safe because he is already betrothed. HAHAHA! Helena was such a spitfire and strong character. Just loved it!
Can' wait for the next one.
April 11, 2025
KU. APRIL READS. Tropes: Victorian Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Best Friends's Sibling, Arranged/ Forced Marriage.
***************************************
MC's h. L. Helena Davenport, best friend L. Julianna Somerset, member of the Ladies Suffragette Society of London, along with L. Callie Sinclair & L. Jo Decker. (Books #1 & #), older brother Sidney Davenport, Viscount Shelbourne, father & mother Marquis and Marchioness Northampton.
*******************************************
H. Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon, engaged to Beatrice Knightsbridge, parents, sister & Grandfather all deceased, bestfriend Sidney Davenport, Viscount Shelbourne. Both friends members of Decker's Black Soul's Club.
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Opinion: This is my third book in this series and there are some similarities: Arranged/Forced Marriage tropes, all the MC heroine's are members of the Ladies Suffragette Society of London, they are all Lady's and friends. All their husbands' are members of the Black Souls Club. Two of the members are best friends, Sinclair and Decker. All the couples fall in love after they are betrothed and they don't consumate their union until after the nuptials. Each book had great love scenes.
**************************************************
This current book's dilemma was the Heroine Gabe, Earl of Huntingdon was torn between duty and what was in his own heart in regards to marriage. He wanted to live up to his Grandfather's expectations and his dying wish that he marry Beatrice. In his heart he had always been attracted to Helena, his bestfriend's sister. Meanwhile ever since she was 16, Helena loved Gabriel. This story turned out to be an enemies to lovers, forced/ arranged marriage and finally the realization of love. (bun in the oven). I rated this 4 stars.
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***************************************
MC's h. L. Helena Davenport, best friend L. Julianna Somerset, member of the Ladies Suffragette Society of London, along with L. Callie Sinclair & L. Jo Decker. (Books #1 & #), older brother Sidney Davenport, Viscount Shelbourne, father & mother Marquis and Marchioness Northampton.
*******************************************
H. Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon, engaged to Beatrice Knightsbridge, parents, sister & Grandfather all deceased, bestfriend Sidney Davenport, Viscount Shelbourne. Both friends members of Decker's Black Soul's Club.
******************************************************************************
Opinion: This is my third book in this series and there are some similarities: Arranged/Forced Marriage tropes, all the MC heroine's are members of the Ladies Suffragette Society of London, they are all Lady's and friends. All their husbands' are members of the Black Souls Club. Two of the members are best friends, Sinclair and Decker. All the couples fall in love after they are betrothed and they don't consumate their union until after the nuptials. Each book had great love scenes.
**************************************************
This current book's dilemma was the Heroine Gabe, Earl of Huntingdon was torn between duty and what was in his own heart in regards to marriage. He wanted to live up to his Grandfather's expectations and his dying wish that he marry Beatrice. In his heart he had always been attracted to Helena, his bestfriend's sister. Meanwhile ever since she was 16, Helena loved Gabriel. This story turned out to be an enemies to lovers, forced/ arranged marriage and finally the realization of love. (bun in the oven). I rated this 4 stars.
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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2020
Lady Helena Davenport is desperate & determined to avoid the odious betrothal her father is forcing upon her so she sets out is to orchestrate her own ruin. Everything is unfolding according to plan, her escape finally within her grasp that is until the priggish Earl of Huntington is continually in the wrong place at the right time. Fortunately, Gabe already has a betrothed of his own but can’t stop thinking about Helena. Helena settles upon the one certain means of securing her freedom, even if she risks making Huntingdon hate her forever.
The third book in the series & yes it’s easily read on its own but seriously the series is SOO good that I’d recommend reading from the beginning. I love how there are cameo appearances from previous characters from both this & other series. Another enthralling, captivating read, which I devoured. I loved the hellion Helena who had love Gabe for years & didn’t waver from this. Oh Gabe honourable & desperate to live up to his Grandfather’s dictates but his outer persona hid the man he truly was. I was drawn in from the beginning & left smiling with the lovely epilogue. I loved the road to their HEA which wasn’t smooth but made for a darned good read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in the series & yes it’s easily read on its own but seriously the series is SOO good that I’d recommend reading from the beginning. I love how there are cameo appearances from previous characters from both this & other series. Another enthralling, captivating read, which I devoured. I loved the hellion Helena who had love Gabe for years & didn’t waver from this. Oh Gabe honourable & desperate to live up to his Grandfather’s dictates but his outer persona hid the man he truly was. I was drawn in from the beginning & left smiling with the lovely epilogue. I loved the road to their HEA which wasn’t smooth but made for a darned good read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 13, 2025
Another Great Compromised Heroine Love Story!!
The Earl of Huntington Gabe has been watching over his best friends Lord Shelbourne's sister to stop her from ruining herself.
Lady Helena Davenport is determined to ruin herself by being caught in a compromising position with one of London's Lords. She does not want to marry Lord Hamish White. Her parents are set upon arranging her marriage to Lord Hamish.
Gabe manages to intercept and stop two of the liaisons assignations Helena has arranged. Therefore she decides to Compromise the man she has always loved Gabe Earl of Huntington. But Gabe is betroth to Lady Beatrice! What a Mess!! But Gabe must marry his best friends sister Helena.
I really liked how they get even with the villain's of the story. That were trying to destroy there marriage. That was very well done. But I liked Helena so much until her entrapment of Gabe, The lie she tells to force him to marry her and break his betrothal to Lady Beatrice wasn't done well. Although I was rooting for them and wanting Gabe and Helena to be married. I didn't like the way Helena forced Gabe to marry her. It was totally out of character for Helena. But "All Is Well That Ends Well" and Gabe and Helena get there HEA!!
The Earl of Huntington Gabe has been watching over his best friends Lord Shelbourne's sister to stop her from ruining herself.
Lady Helena Davenport is determined to ruin herself by being caught in a compromising position with one of London's Lords. She does not want to marry Lord Hamish White. Her parents are set upon arranging her marriage to Lord Hamish.
Gabe manages to intercept and stop two of the liaisons assignations Helena has arranged. Therefore she decides to Compromise the man she has always loved Gabe Earl of Huntington. But Gabe is betroth to Lady Beatrice! What a Mess!! But Gabe must marry his best friends sister Helena.
I really liked how they get even with the villain's of the story. That were trying to destroy there marriage. That was very well done. But I liked Helena so much until her entrapment of Gabe, The lie she tells to force him to marry her and break his betrothal to Lady Beatrice wasn't done well. Although I was rooting for them and wanting Gabe and Helena to be married. I didn't like the way Helena forced Gabe to marry her. It was totally out of character for Helena. But "All Is Well That Ends Well" and Gabe and Helena get there HEA!!
November 25, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2
*** I am behind on reviews. These questions help me to better organize my thoughts.***
* How did the book make you feel?: I was a bit frustrated with the MC’s. Still, it was nice escape for a few hours.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The pacing was good. I enjoy the author’s use of language and writing style.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I found neither of them particularly likable. The h was a bit impetuous and naive—although I’m sure that was probably the case for many women back then! The H was hot and cold.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: I enjoyed the push-pull between the MC’s and I sympathized with the H’s distrust of the h.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: h entraps H in marriage in order to escape unwanted betrothal, virgin h
* What did you think about the ending?: satisfying HEA as expected
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m a loyal Scarlett Scott fan!
Triggers: language and explicit sex
*** I am behind on reviews. These questions help me to better organize my thoughts.***
* How did the book make you feel?: I was a bit frustrated with the MC’s. Still, it was nice escape for a few hours.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: The pacing was good. I enjoy the author’s use of language and writing style.
* What did you think about the main characters?: I found neither of them particularly likable. The h was a bit impetuous and naive—although I’m sure that was probably the case for many women back then! The H was hot and cold.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: I enjoyed the push-pull between the MC’s and I sympathized with the H’s distrust of the h.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: h entraps H in marriage in order to escape unwanted betrothal, virgin h
* What did you think about the ending?: satisfying HEA as expected
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m a loyal Scarlett Scott fan!
Triggers: language and explicit sex
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2020
Another 5 Star ⭐️ Romance ❤️🔥
This is Book 3 in the Notorious Ladies of London series ❤️🔥❤️🔥
I fell in love with Lady Helena! She is a strong, daring and sassy. Her father wants her betrothed to Lord Hamish an oppressive man. She will do anything to get out of her bethrothal. Her plan is ruination! It’s just that every time she tries Lord Huntington, her brothers best friend is always there to stop her. Gabe the Earl of Huntington is attracted to the beautiful Helena, but he is an honorable man and also bethrothed.
This is a fast paced storyline, with lots of stolen kisses. And a reckless Helena at the end of choices. But, Scarlett Scott’s heroines do not give up and omg what a fun and sexy story! There will be drama and threats, but it makes for such a great read!
This is Book 3 in the Notorious Ladies of London series ❤️🔥❤️🔥
I fell in love with Lady Helena! She is a strong, daring and sassy. Her father wants her betrothed to Lord Hamish an oppressive man. She will do anything to get out of her bethrothal. Her plan is ruination! It’s just that every time she tries Lord Huntington, her brothers best friend is always there to stop her. Gabe the Earl of Huntington is attracted to the beautiful Helena, but he is an honorable man and also bethrothed.
This is a fast paced storyline, with lots of stolen kisses. And a reckless Helena at the end of choices. But, Scarlett Scott’s heroines do not give up and omg what a fun and sexy story! There will be drama and threats, but it makes for such a great read!
February 1, 2024
Gabe and Helena
I really liked this story. She is trying to ruin herself and her brothers friend is trying to save her. He was betrothed to another woman and I didn't really know how it was going to work out but it was quite the adventure. The intimate scenes were sizzling! I did skim over some of them but there was definitely passion between them. Epilogue was very sweet too.
I really liked this story. She is trying to ruin herself and her brothers friend is trying to save her. He was betrothed to another woman and I didn't really know how it was going to work out but it was quite the adventure. The intimate scenes were sizzling! I did skim over some of them but there was definitely passion between them. Epilogue was very sweet too.
November 7, 2020
CWs: panic attacks, mentions of past rape and suicide
October 15, 2020
Seriously, each book in this series keeps getting better and better! I absolutely adored this book. It made my heart melt. Helena and Gabe are absolutely perfect for each other and this book was on fire. The passion between these two was incendiary!! This has to be the best series I’ve read in a while and I absolutely CAN’T WAIT for Lady Wicked!! 5 stars!
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review 😊
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review 😊
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March 20, 2023I need to be in the mood for this. Putting away for now.
August 10, 2021
Yea I just couldn’t wait till the book was over.
They both like each other, but the hero made a commitment to marry another woman, even though his heart belongs to the heroine. And the heroine couldn’t have the man she loves so she doesn’t want to marry anybody…so she makes it a duty to compromise herself and to make her unmarriagable.
So the hero hears that’s she’s about to lose her v-card to some rake, and he essentially prevents that from happening. He thaws all her attempts to ruin herself and then boom! he ends up ruining her himself.
So the heroine is one day thinking about all that’s transpired, she hasn’t publicly been compromised however between the hero and the heroine she has, so that means she can tell her older brother that She is not able to get married to anyone because, her brothers best friend (the hero) has compromised her, and therefore she can’t marry anyone and she can remain a spinster forever. Ding ding ding we have a winner, golden plan right there🌟 thumbs up 👍🏾…..obviously not, no everything goes south!
So the brother storms into the hero’s house and they start fighting. The hero is like ‘yes I compromised her but it’s not that bad(it was just some kisses) , and it wasn’t made public, no one knows about it, we can still go our separate ways’ the heroine realizes she’s about to lose him so she blurts out ‘I’m pregnant’….. 😭 silly girl. So the brother explodes, but the hero doesn’t deny it or says she’s lying, he’s just like 👁👄👁..?…confused.com! He just kept saying he did compromise her so he will do the honorable thing and marry her. So he does .
I don’t like how during the marriage, he tries to distance himself from her as though it was her fault that they are saddled together. Truth be told yea she snitched and did lie about the pregnancy, but he did compromise her at the end of the day. And if he truly left her alone to ruin herself instead of meddling, he wouldn’t be in the current situation. So equally it’s his fault too, so stop making the heroine feel bad, d*ck’ed. And he’s just annoying, because the hero clearly pines for the heroine and has wanted her for the longest time but he just doesn’t express that and the poor heroine thinks he hates her, even though he doesn’t, and she thinks that maybe he truly wanted to marry that other woman and the heroine just feels bad…he didn’t even like his fiancé, lol.
So anyway, he keeps telling her that he’s going to leave her and they’ll live separately, but the night before the morning he’s suppose to leave, which also happens to be his wedding night, he gets roaring drunk (not something he usually does) so the heroines pissed off coz he spent the entire day and night away from her, so she tells his valet not to wake him up early in the morning and to let him sleep in. So the hero wakes up and has missed his train 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 idiot! Smart girl 😉
So he mad lol.
He then realizes that he probs shouldn’t leave and should actually give the marriage a go…well yea bloody do that mate, instead of tryna run away, coward 😒
Long story short, their married so they’ll sort there shit out and behave like adults. 🥸
They both like each other, but the hero made a commitment to marry another woman, even though his heart belongs to the heroine. And the heroine couldn’t have the man she loves so she doesn’t want to marry anybody…so she makes it a duty to compromise herself and to make her unmarriagable.
So the hero hears that’s she’s about to lose her v-card to some rake, and he essentially prevents that from happening. He thaws all her attempts to ruin herself and then boom! he ends up ruining her himself.
So the heroine is one day thinking about all that’s transpired, she hasn’t publicly been compromised however between the hero and the heroine she has, so that means she can tell her older brother that She is not able to get married to anyone because, her brothers best friend (the hero) has compromised her, and therefore she can’t marry anyone and she can remain a spinster forever. Ding ding ding we have a winner, golden plan right there🌟 thumbs up 👍🏾…..obviously not, no everything goes south!
So the brother storms into the hero’s house and they start fighting. The hero is like ‘yes I compromised her but it’s not that bad(it was just some kisses) , and it wasn’t made public, no one knows about it, we can still go our separate ways’ the heroine realizes she’s about to lose him so she blurts out ‘I’m pregnant’….. 😭 silly girl. So the brother explodes, but the hero doesn’t deny it or says she’s lying, he’s just like 👁👄👁..?…confused.com! He just kept saying he did compromise her so he will do the honorable thing and marry her. So he does .
I don’t like how during the marriage, he tries to distance himself from her as though it was her fault that they are saddled together. Truth be told yea she snitched and did lie about the pregnancy, but he did compromise her at the end of the day. And if he truly left her alone to ruin herself instead of meddling, he wouldn’t be in the current situation. So equally it’s his fault too, so stop making the heroine feel bad, d*ck’ed. And he’s just annoying, because the hero clearly pines for the heroine and has wanted her for the longest time but he just doesn’t express that and the poor heroine thinks he hates her, even though he doesn’t, and she thinks that maybe he truly wanted to marry that other woman and the heroine just feels bad…he didn’t even like his fiancé, lol.
So anyway, he keeps telling her that he’s going to leave her and they’ll live separately, but the night before the morning he’s suppose to leave, which also happens to be his wedding night, he gets roaring drunk (not something he usually does) so the heroines pissed off coz he spent the entire day and night away from her, so she tells his valet not to wake him up early in the morning and to let him sleep in. So the hero wakes up and has missed his train 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 idiot! Smart girl 😉
So he mad lol.
He then realizes that he probs shouldn’t leave and should actually give the marriage a go…well yea bloody do that mate, instead of tryna run away, coward 😒
Long story short, their married so they’ll sort there shit out and behave like adults. 🥸
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2020
Scarlett Scott did it again. She is one of my favorite historical romance authors. She creates amazing characters and great dialogue. I really fell in love with Helena’s and Gabe story. Gabe has so many layers we find out so much more about him. We also see Helena‘s character how strong-willed she is and her willingness to forced Gabe into this situation so she can get out of the engagement she so despises. There are many scenes with these two characters that does make your heart beat faster. I really fell in love with Gabe and his resistance to Helena and the whole situation. In true fashion, Scarlet Scott introduces her next characters in this book. I still wanna read their book next. Believe it says a lot about an author when you put one book down and you can’t wait for the next one. Thank you Scarlet for giving me this book I can’t wait until the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2020
Another exciting page turner! I couldn’t wait to see what sexually charged, compromising positions Lady Helena and Lord Gabe would find themselves in next. This was just the right mix of naughty and intrigue. Scarlett Scott never disappoints with her complex characters personalities. They have just enough angst to make the story interesting. And she always adds just the right bit of hot sizzle to make it satisfying. Do yourself a favor and grab this book to cozy in and lose yourself in.
October 27, 2020
Didn't like Helena there for a while, she was a bit manipulative. Is was entertaining and enjoyable to read. Fab storyline. 5☆
September 9, 2021
I read 2 books from this series, I'm not sure why Ms. Scott insisted of having selfish heroines, mild angst heros and a countless repetition of inner dialogues. I mean she can come up with interesting plots but her love for repetition become tedious after pages of nonstop internal dialogues
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January 20, 2024Lady Reckless is the third instalment in Scarlett Scott’s Notorious Ladies of London series. Although the stories are linked you can completely read this as a stand-alone story. I was so excited to read this and made the mistake of starting at 11pm. Needless to say could not put it down and finished in the very early hours of the morning. Scarlett is such a good writer that you really get lost in the flow of the story and don’t even notice where the time has gone.
The story starts with the very proper Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon waiting in the lodgings of a disreputable man for his best friend’s sister Lady Helena to show up expecting to be ruined by said disreputable man. When he discovered her plans, he naturally could not let her go through with this madness. Expecting gratitude for his intervention he is surprised to realise that Lady Helena is anything but. Gabriel knows his best friend’s sister is off limits to him, but he cannot just sit idly by whilst she is on this path. He resolves to keep an eye on her – even if it tests him to his limits and his overwhelming desire for her.
Lady Helena is desperate. Her father is set upon wedding her to an odious man and will not allow her a choice. Her only option is to cause such a scandal that she would become unmarriageable. With her secret love [her brother’s oblivious best friend the Earl of Huntingdon] already betrothed to another she feels she has no choice. Even though she is secretly relieved that Gabriel managed to stop the first rendezvous, Helena is determined to carry on with her plans. When he keeps turning up to foil her plans and can’t seem to stop kissing her himself, Helena contemplates something she’d never allowed herself to hope for. Will her actions bring her her hearts desires or drive an unsurmountable wedge between them?
I genuinely loved this story and this couple. Despite how fitting the title is Helena is actually very sweet. You completely understand her frustrations against the restrictions placed upon her by society and the patriarchal society of the time. She has loved Gabriel for years but never thought he had any interest in her. She made a bold decision which she tried to make amends for. I loved that she never gave up on Gabriel and did not let him keep up his barriers against her.
Gabriel is a lovely hero. Handsome, honourable and passionate. His troubled past has shaped his ideas of what a suitable marriage should be, and he has spent his life keeping his desires suppressed. He has always been aware of Helena, but her spirit and vivaciousness did not meet his ideas for a staid, placid wife. It took Helena’s scandalous decision to truly shake him up and make him recognise what he had nearly lost.
This is definitely another winner by Scarlett. The story is warm, charming, emotional and very sexy. Gabriel and Helena’s story flows naturally. They are really likeable and as ever the secondary characters are wonderful. We get a brief glimpse into the lives of Decker and Jo and even see the marvellous Macfie! The running theme of the Lady’s Suffrage Society meetings throughout gives a brilliant insight into the problems facing women at the time. I am loving this series so far. Scarlett’s characters have integrity and keep the reader invested. Helena’s brother Lord Shelbourne and Lady Julianna will certainly keep the sparks flying in the next instalment of the series - Lady Wicked.
I was generously gifted an ARC of this book but the opinions are completely my own.
The story starts with the very proper Gabriel, Earl of Huntingdon waiting in the lodgings of a disreputable man for his best friend’s sister Lady Helena to show up expecting to be ruined by said disreputable man. When he discovered her plans, he naturally could not let her go through with this madness. Expecting gratitude for his intervention he is surprised to realise that Lady Helena is anything but. Gabriel knows his best friend’s sister is off limits to him, but he cannot just sit idly by whilst she is on this path. He resolves to keep an eye on her – even if it tests him to his limits and his overwhelming desire for her.
Lady Helena is desperate. Her father is set upon wedding her to an odious man and will not allow her a choice. Her only option is to cause such a scandal that she would become unmarriageable. With her secret love [her brother’s oblivious best friend the Earl of Huntingdon] already betrothed to another she feels she has no choice. Even though she is secretly relieved that Gabriel managed to stop the first rendezvous, Helena is determined to carry on with her plans. When he keeps turning up to foil her plans and can’t seem to stop kissing her himself, Helena contemplates something she’d never allowed herself to hope for. Will her actions bring her her hearts desires or drive an unsurmountable wedge between them?
I genuinely loved this story and this couple. Despite how fitting the title is Helena is actually very sweet. You completely understand her frustrations against the restrictions placed upon her by society and the patriarchal society of the time. She has loved Gabriel for years but never thought he had any interest in her. She made a bold decision which she tried to make amends for. I loved that she never gave up on Gabriel and did not let him keep up his barriers against her.
Gabriel is a lovely hero. Handsome, honourable and passionate. His troubled past has shaped his ideas of what a suitable marriage should be, and he has spent his life keeping his desires suppressed. He has always been aware of Helena, but her spirit and vivaciousness did not meet his ideas for a staid, placid wife. It took Helena’s scandalous decision to truly shake him up and make him recognise what he had nearly lost.
This is definitely another winner by Scarlett. The story is warm, charming, emotional and very sexy. Gabriel and Helena’s story flows naturally. They are really likeable and as ever the secondary characters are wonderful. We get a brief glimpse into the lives of Decker and Jo and even see the marvellous Macfie! The running theme of the Lady’s Suffrage Society meetings throughout gives a brilliant insight into the problems facing women at the time. I am loving this series so far. Scarlett’s characters have integrity and keep the reader invested. Helena’s brother Lord Shelbourne and Lady Julianna will certainly keep the sparks flying in the next instalment of the series - Lady Wicked.
I was generously gifted an ARC of this book but the opinions are completely my own.
October 10, 2020
Scarlett Scott writes such amazing characters. Every time I read one of her books (which is every time she has a new book, as she’s one of my very favorite authors!), I’m amazed at how complex she makes the hero and heroine. Her characters are always flawed, but that makes them so much stronger in the end and obviously, so much more interesting to read, even when you want to smack them for their bad behavior or failure to see past their own concerns!
Helena is perfectly named as Lady Reckless. She recklessly pursues her goal - namely, avoiding marriage with an oafish lord. Gabe is hopelessly wrapped in Helena’s activities and scandal for all the right reasons, though he cannot see them and feels completely out of control. Despite being reckless, Helena is steadfast in her care for Gabe and the dynamics between the two are enthralling to read.
I highly recommend you read this latest Scarlett Scott offering. I received an advanced copy but all opinions are my own.
Helena is perfectly named as Lady Reckless. She recklessly pursues her goal - namely, avoiding marriage with an oafish lord. Gabe is hopelessly wrapped in Helena’s activities and scandal for all the right reasons, though he cannot see them and feels completely out of control. Despite being reckless, Helena is steadfast in her care for Gabe and the dynamics between the two are enthralling to read.
I highly recommend you read this latest Scarlett Scott offering. I received an advanced copy but all opinions are my own.
December 31, 2020
"She looked like a Renaissance Madonna. But she had come to this cesspit to be thoroughly ruined."
Thus were the thoughts of Huntington as he pulled Lady Helena into the room.
Determined to thwart her father and not marry the awful man he had picked out for her, Helena was determine to become ruined. Yep brilliant idea, but luckily handsome, honorable and friend of her brother, Gabe Huntington stepped in and put all halt to her plans.
Now if he were to ruin her.. oh yes! She had tried everything to get his attention.. But his honor kept him coming to her rescue to stop her crazy scheme.
That is until he kissed her..... Must I say more? Sigh.
Thus were the thoughts of Huntington as he pulled Lady Helena into the room.
Determined to thwart her father and not marry the awful man he had picked out for her, Helena was determine to become ruined. Yep brilliant idea, but luckily handsome, honorable and friend of her brother, Gabe Huntington stepped in and put all halt to her plans.
Now if he were to ruin her.. oh yes! She had tried everything to get his attention.. But his honor kept him coming to her rescue to stop her crazy scheme.
That is until he kissed her..... Must I say more? Sigh.
August 28, 2022
Rounded up from 2.49- Helena was not my favorite character. I found her to be immature, selfish, and manipulative. It made it difficult for me to read the story. I think Gabe deserved better. I also felt like the subplot about Gabe’s sister and his related trauma could have been better handled. Even though it helped tie up the story and was a catalyst for Gabe realizing he was in love, it felt like it was thrown in too hastily. It could have been developed more. I just really struggled with this one. Now I’m debating whether or not to read the next. There were enough snippets to draw my attention to the next characters, but I don’t know if it’ll be worth it.
October 12, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
I always love a good Scarlett Scott book, steamy, passionate and an adventure not to be missed, and that exactly what you get in this book.
Two wonderful characters that bounce off one another, they feed off each other’s passion and chemistry to creat an incendiary atmosphere that you can almost taste, it takes your breath, perfect.
Some great secondary characters too, ones we’ve met before and some new ones, but all of them brilliant and enjoyable reading.
I look forward to Julianna and Shelbournes book next.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋💋
I always love a good Scarlett Scott book, steamy, passionate and an adventure not to be missed, and that exactly what you get in this book.
Two wonderful characters that bounce off one another, they feed off each other’s passion and chemistry to creat an incendiary atmosphere that you can almost taste, it takes your breath, perfect.
Some great secondary characters too, ones we’ve met before and some new ones, but all of them brilliant and enjoyable reading.
I look forward to Julianna and Shelbournes book next.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
October 18, 2020
Thrilling
What an amazing story.. Scarlett always delivers a great riveting story and this one is definitely no different.. The details are incredible the thing I loved the most were some of the passages that she used in the ladies suffrage movement at the beginning of each chapter. Onto another note both characters were amazing.. I just can't say enough about this book.. I look forward to more of the Notorious ladies
What an amazing story.. Scarlett always delivers a great riveting story and this one is definitely no different.. The details are incredible the thing I loved the most were some of the passages that she used in the ladies suffrage movement at the beginning of each chapter. Onto another note both characters were amazing.. I just can't say enough about this book.. I look forward to more of the Notorious ladies
August 2, 2021
4,5*.
Exactamente cumple lo que promete. A Gabe le habría dado un tortazo alguna que otra vez pero al final te enamora. Helena está un poco loca pero también la comprendo. Hay escenas tórridas y romance. Le quería poner una estrella menos porque repite bastante conceptos que ya tenemos claros desde el principio, pero como a pesar de eso me ha mantenido pegada a la lectura y eso es lo más importante, la dejo en 4,5.
Exactamente cumple lo que promete. A Gabe le habría dado un tortazo alguna que otra vez pero al final te enamora. Helena está un poco loca pero también la comprendo. Hay escenas tórridas y romance. Le quería poner una estrella menos porque repite bastante conceptos que ya tenemos claros desde el principio, pero como a pesar de eso me ha mantenido pegada a la lectura y eso es lo más importante, la dejo en 4,5.
February 20, 2024
This is more like a 2 1/2 stars for me because I liked the beginning and the ending was decent but the middle part just ruined it for me. My dislike for Helena was just that strong after what she did and the fact it took her most of the book for her to even apologize for how she acted! And then Gabe was all "no it was my fault, too" NOOOOOO, IT WASN'T!!!!! Ugh. Glad I finished it, but I will not read again. Hopefully the next book is far better!
October 10, 2020
Man I loved this book. I love a good series book that pulls together all your favorites and no one does it better than Scarlett! (You get an extra star for including Macfie again). 😍
This book shows you how love can truly mend a broken and confused heart...and to never give up hope! I loved the dynamics and word play in this book...there is really nothing I did not like about it. The added details about how the women felt about getting/fighting for equal rights during this age was an added educational boon! While I know it’s fiction, I’m sure it’s pretty much how it was for women during this time. I love little tidbits like this..again, refer to my prior comment..there was NOTHING I did not like about this book! 🙂
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
This book shows you how love can truly mend a broken and confused heart...and to never give up hope! I loved the dynamics and word play in this book...there is really nothing I did not like about it. The added details about how the women felt about getting/fighting for equal rights during this age was an added educational boon! While I know it’s fiction, I’m sure it’s pretty much how it was for women during this time. I love little tidbits like this..again, refer to my prior comment..there was NOTHING I did not like about this book! 🙂
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
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February 25, 2021And so it goes. More angst in this one.
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