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Exile #2

Wicked Exile

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She can't afford to love anyone. He will never marry. They can never have a future...or can they?

A fallen lady with a heart of gold and a spine of steel.

Long ago, Madame Juliet Thomson was exiled from her family. A fallen lady, she's worked in one of London's most famous gaming hells for the last six years. An arrangement that suited her well, until an over-zealous lord determines she is his property. Which she is most decidedly not. But convincing the man is another matter, and she needs desperately to disappear for a while—somewhere safe, somewhere she cannot be found.

When opportunities present themselves, take them.
Evander Docherty wants one thing. To set his future bride in front of his beloved grandfather before the earl dies. A last wish fulfilled. Not that he actually plans to marry the lass. Nor that he even has a fiancée. But for his grandfather, Evan would do anything. Even strike a bargain with a fallen lady.

An attraction not to be denied.
While danger rears on the journey north to Scotland, Evan and Juliet quickly find the attraction between them is spinning out of control. But she can't afford to love anyone. And he will never marry. They can never have a future...or can they?

Join the adventure today! You'll love Wicked Exile, the second in the Exile series and a can't-miss Regency romance by USA Today bestselling author K.J. Jackson.

Note: The novels in the Exile series by K.J. Jackson are each stand-alone stories and can be read individually, in any order. These historical romances are set in the Regency and Victorian eras and do not shy away from scenes with steamy heat, occasional naughty language, and moments that might possibly make you squirm.

210 pages, ebook

First published June 14, 2021

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142 people want to read

About the author

K.J. Jackson

61 books463 followers

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5 stars
640 (59%)
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326 (30%)
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89 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for MG *Bury Me with My Kindle.. & a REALLY Long Charger*.
588 reviews785 followers
June 15, 2021
While I have enjoyed all of KJ Jackson's books, this one took me by surprise... I was not expecting to love it as much as I did! The "fallen woman" trope feels tired many times, and especially if it is the fallen woman running the brothel, but this book went in a different direction from others I have read along similar lines - in the best of ways!

Though this is the second book in the series, I do not feel it is necessary to have read book 1 to enjoy this book as the author concisely delivers the information you need to know about it at the start of this story.

Juliet Thomson has worked for Strider Hoppler for the last several years in his Den of Diablo where he provides services to the wealthy, many of whom are members of the ton with titles and (often self-established) importance. Though she is referred to as the madam of the establishment, she does not offer herself as an option any longer as her priorities are caring for the women she supervises and ensuring that they are treated well. Because Juliet is the daughter of a (now deceased) baron, she "speaks the language" of many of the patrons, and she offers them an ear before she hands them off to a woman for the physical services. She has grown weary of their complaints as none of them seem to have ever experienced real despair, something Juliet is familiar with all too well. When a co-worker that she trusts offers her a temporary job working for his cousin, Juliet is hesitant, but it provides her with a chance to get out of London and leave her worries behind for a least a time, a luxury she has not had in quite awhile, so she ultimately accepts.

Evander Docherty is the future earl to the estate held in Scotland, his country of origin, though he more often frequents London as he has left the Scottish holding in the hands of his younger by only minutes twin brother. Since their father passed away when they were lads, he has been raised by his grandfather, the current earl, a man he deeply loves and respects. When his grandfather sends word that he is near to being on his death bed, Evan hatches a plan to allow him to pass away in peace thinking that Evan is to be married and will carry on the line as his grandfather has always wanted. To do this, he must find a woman who is versed in the ways of society, who does not have maidenly sensitivities, AND who will agree to the ruse. His cousin seems to know just the lady: the woman that runs the brothel where he works. Skeptical at first, Even reserves judgement until he meets her, and when he does, he realizes there is much more to her than it seems, though he can tell she has been hurt and is jaded when it comes to her opinion of the members of the ton.

As they travel to the estate in Scotland, Evan and Juliet get to know one another better, though both are keeping secrets... Why has Evan vowed never to marry or have children? What happened in Juliet's past that changed her status from lady to madam? Can they give into the passion between them without getting stronger feelings involved? And what will happen when the danger they encounter on the road is only the beginning of their perilous adventure?

What I liked:
--- Evan was a very likeable H - he had that balance of being strong and able but with a gentleness and kindness in how he treated everyone
--- Juliet was a very likeable h - she was independent, intelligent, and did not need saving, but she showed her softer side when the right man finally came along
--- I loved the character of the grandfather - he added some levity and humor to the story
--- There was some mystery and "why" questions that kept me glued to the pages
--- Miscommunications were resolved quickly; I hate when there is unnecessary angst bc the characters won't talk to each other
--- STEAMY GOODNESS; early & often, please & thank you!

What I didn't like as much:
--- A couple of things nagged at me, but they were relatively minor in the scheme of things

Overall, I really enjoyed this story of 2 people who resigned themselves to being alone finding one another. There was some mystery/suspense along the way, and plenty of delicious steamy goodness!

(Please note that I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.)

Plot --- 5/5
Main Characters --- 5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- nothing overly graphic
Language --- not egregious
POV --- 3rd

*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Profile Image for emtee .
240 reviews125 followers
July 15, 2021
My first and last KJ Jackson book. Not sure where all the 5-star ratings came from. I liked the premise (forced proximity) and loved Juliet (the two stars are for her), but the story was ruined by the weird turns of phrase and clunky writing. See highlights for a few examples.
Profile Image for Kate V.
1,886 reviews385 followers
June 16, 2021
4.5 - 5 Stars!

This is the second book in the Exile series and features Juliet and Evander. You meet Juliet in the first book because she works for Strider Hopler in his Den of Diablo. She acts as the catalyst for the women to entertain men...although she never takes any herself. Her role is more mother hen. Juliet is the daughter of a deceased baron and thus has the air and practice of the ton. But being in this world and a “ruined” woman, she soon finds herself needing an escape. When her friend introduces her to Evander who has a proposal for her, she accepts even though she is hesitant at first.

Evander comes from an estate in Scotland and will one day be an earl but it is evident that he doesn’t spend much time at home and estate business is mostly left to his grandfather and his younger twin brother Gilroy. Evander and his grandfather have a close relationship and upon telling Evander that he is to die soon and wants him married, Evander decides on creating a fake engagement with Juliet.

Evander and Juliet are weary of each other and know that both of them carry secrets and hurts that they don’t want brought to the surface. Along their journey and upon arrival to Evander’s estate, their walls start to crumple and what starts out as purely physical evolves into something more. However, the walls of Evander’s future estate harbor dark secrets and the people that reside within them aren’t what they seem. What is Evan hiding from Juliet? Will Juliet ever love again? Can the two of them learn to trust the other even when all seems lost?

I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this story. The steam level in this was perfect, the twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and I loved Juliet. Jackson has this unique ability to make me like all the heroines she writes. I wasn’t even sure I would like Juliet but she wormed into my heart quickly and I loved her realness. Evander was harder to like (like most of Jackson’s heroes) because he was so darn thick. Had I been Juliet, I probably would have stabbed him (not really). Overall, if you are a fan of historical romance with suspense and intrigue, a healthy dose of steam and two deeply layered characters, I definitely suggest this one.
Profile Image for Serial Romance Librarian.
1,244 reviews311 followers
April 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the chemistry between the MC’s. Both of them had tragic back stories. The brother Gilroy was a real piece of work. There was a little bit of angst, because Evan had his head up his ass. He also threw Juliet’s past in her face a few times. I don’t understand how he was so blind about his brother. Loved the HEA epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Brenda.
3,620 reviews51 followers
July 2, 2021
Evil

A brother who is evil and manipulative.
Gil is just plain evil. Evan is good but easily manipulated.
Juliet is a wise and wonderful woman.
K.J. Jackson has penned a wonderful story.
1,351 reviews16 followers
June 14, 2021
Brilliantly Crafted Historical Romance with Suspense and Secrets

Once in a while, a book comes along and pulls you inside the pages and weaves a spell that won’t let go. This is one of those books. It is the kind of story that makes me wish Amazon has a higher rating than five stars. There is romance, heart-wrenching family dynamics, and two people in desperate need of redemption. The arrangement between Evan and Juliet is strictly business, but their hearts pay no attention. He is a haunted man who vowed never to marry; she is a fallen woman who worked in a brothel for the last six years. They do not have a future, or that’s what society’s rules dictate. As they face treachery and deadly danger, can they find a future together? I loved this spellbinding tale and would recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance with suspense and mystery.
Profile Image for Madoka Kamimura Mason.
335 reviews9 followers
June 15, 2021
K. J. Jackson brings us Evan and Juliet in the second book in her Exile Novel series. Because of her past, Juliet is comfortable in the world of gaming hells. When a problem comes up, Juliet decides that she needs to get away for awhile. Evan has come up with a solution to her problem: pretend to be his intended bride in front of his grandfather. Make-believe and pretend become harder and harder as they keep up the pretense in front of family, friends, and acquaintances. Will their pretense turn into something more or will they be able to go their separate ways in the end?

K. J. Jackson brings us a story of best intentions, love, and betrayal. She shows us how perceptions can cloud judgment and how love and support are important. Most of all, she shows us how Evan and Juliet change each other and themselves through this relationship. I enjoyed reading their story and look forward to the next installment in this series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I would like to thank K. J. Jackson for this privilege.
1,695 reviews15 followers
June 14, 2021
4.5 STARS

Different story line. I had preconceived ideas about the h from where she worked. As the story unfolds you realize she isn't what you would expect.

The H is too trusting especially where family is concerned. This causes problems especially near the end of the story. What a relief to see the h decided to share what her actions she was taking and why with the H. That would have been the logical decision but usually author's take us in another direction to add to the story. I applaud this author for taking a different and surprising twist.

There is passionate lovemaking, outside of marriage - heat level 4+ out of 5.

Neither of our main character's had an easy life. The H from when he was barely young enough to understand and the h from making poor choices as a 19 year old.

No cheating, no cliffhanger for our couple, (but with another family member not sure of her outcome), great main and secondary character's, HEA, some romance and spice. Great epilogue that was the cherry on the cake.

I received an early copy, all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
Profile Image for Lana Birky.
1,751 reviews24 followers
June 5, 2021
​I loved this well-written book that kept a good pace throughout. The characters were all very likable, except for the villain & was flying through the pages to get to their wonderful HEA.

Evander Docherty, Lord Hedrun, is the Scottish grandson to the Earl of Whetland & next heir in line for the title, was in England to find a lady to be his fake fiancée. His grandfather is dying & the thing that would make his most happy would be for Evan to bring home a lady to marry. Evan has vowed never to marry & his cousin told him about Juliet - he was here to meet her & make her an offer she couldn't refuse.

Miss Juliet Thomson, a daughter of a baron who completely impoverished them, she fell in love with a viscount & he with her but he needed to marry for money. She became his mistress & he married a wealthy lady, then he tossed her out with nothing & she became a madam at the brothel. The offer was finally accepted & they took the journey back to Scotland.

The trip found them becoming friends, friends become steamy lovers, lovers fall in love - the road was not smooth & Evan's twin is a villain but Evan cannot see it. The angst & tension were excellent & I couldn't wait until the evil twin was given his comeuppance. I loved the tender moments with the grandfather, who was quite the wily earl. Ultimately, this is a story of two strong willed people who lose the battle to ignore the love between them. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
6 reviews
June 14, 2021
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lduhaime59
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Recommended and rated this book
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First Kj is a wonderfully talented writer. Her character development is so mastered , it’s as though you see them and feel their emotions. This tale involves a Brit and a Scott. There is drama, laughter, heartache and love. What is needed is to not let the past define who they are but to use their pasts to help them become who they truly were meant to be. Allowing them to feel free enough to get the gift of love. A great story, a page turner. I couldn’t put it down. One very long nite. Enjoy this and believe in redemption and love
807 reviews6 followers
June 14, 2021
I can never say enough great things when it comes to Ms. Jackson's books. Once again she did not disappoint. Juliet and Evander were amazing characters. When Juliet agrees to a fake engagement, she had no idea what she was getting herself mixed up in. Things at the Earl's estate are not quite what the seem. There was a point in the story that I honestly did not think HEA was in there future. However, Evander managed to surprise me. Danger, suspense and romance make this quite an incredible read. I'm excited for what comes next. I received an advanced copy and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tracy DeNeal.
380 reviews19 followers
June 15, 2021
Evander and Juliet

This second installment was “chef’s kiss” magnificent. As usual, I found myself on the edge of my seat during the trials and perils of this couple.

K.J. Jackson knows how to bring the danger. You will love this series and all of her others as well. Highly recommended!
1,353 reviews4 followers
June 17, 2021
A Real Page Turner!

I haven't read one story by Ms. Jackson that I haven't loved! Overall quality of writing is wonderful. Well rounded characters and storyline with no cheating or cliffhanger. We're all imperfect and we all make mistakes. It's what we do once we've made them that determines the person we are to be. Grandfather had one more lesson to teach Juliette and Evan learned the same lesson the hard way. Definitely a page turner, has a bad guy too, and most important there is a happy ever after. Enjoy 🤓
398 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2021
Evan and Juliet's story was even better than the 1st book. I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I did given her background but the story was so well written I read it in one sitting. Looking forward to Nessa's story.
Profile Image for Melissa.
2,595 reviews276 followers
September 29, 2021
That was a great story and a fun romance. I love when an author can do the "dangerous chick thing" well. I completely believed this girl would do what it took to survive. Just a yummy romance.
There are several descriptive sex scenes and one crazy bad guy.
Profile Image for Nicole.
998 reviews17 followers
February 27, 2023
A great story

Another great story from K.J Jackson. I can't get enough of her books. Each and every one of her books has the right amount angst, mystery, happiness, and love.
Profile Image for Martha B..
838 reviews11 followers
June 5, 2021
Making Vows is Risky

Juliet vowed to never love or marry. Evan vowed to never marry, so what was the point of falling in love. As they both will discover, making a vow is serious and possibly reckless, because no man or woman can know what the future holds.

Wicked Exile is a passionate character-driven tale of disappointment, danger, misguided regret and well kept secrets. K.J. Jackson deftly weaves together an engrossing plot that keeps an even pace. I liked both lead characters, but I especially liked Evan's grandfather.

All in all this was a slightly dark, but enjoyable read with a happy ending that was both sweet and satisfying.

Content 411: This book contains swearing and a couple of vulgarities. It also features a few detailed sexually intimate scenes

Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
436 reviews24 followers
June 5, 2021
Juliet Thomson met Evander Docherty at the Willows where she time to get away from London. He had a proposition for her he would pay her to be his betrothed or at least a week at his grandfather's castle in Scotland. Juliet said no as she needed to be there when Hoppler's fiancé Pen died. Jasper then informed her that Lord launder Vontmour knew where she was. She accepted Evan's proposal. KJ Jackson has written a wonderful book though there are intimate themes which are steamy but I do recommend it to anyone who likes this kind of...
Profile Image for Maria Dariotis .
789 reviews17 followers
June 19, 2021
Wicked Exile is second in the series “EXILE” and just as an exciting read, but can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
Juliet Thomson has had a tough life, betrayed by the man she loved, he promised her the moon, all she got was heartbreak. Overseeing a gaming hell/brothel she’s become content the last six years. An overly enthusiastic regular is stalking her and she needs to disappear before it gets out of hand. She never thought she’d be posing as a fake fiancé in the wilds of Scotland, and least of all breaking the only rule she’s kept all these years….falling in love!

Evander Docherty Lord Hedrun is the next heir to the title of Earl of Whetland, but he has a problem, he can never marry and have children. He needs to procure a bride to appease his dying (not any time soon) grandfather. Juliet fits the bill she has the proper etiquette, speaks and acts like a lady, but they can never go through with the arrangement….even though her kisses make him melt and wanting more.

This was a slow burn read, plenty of angst and sexual tension. No one does it better than K.J. Jackson, every page is brought to life, feelings and emotions felt. Never expected the the turn of events, one never realises what one has until they lose it, Evan rescues Juliet from near death and get their well deserved HEA.

Amazing series and can’t wait for the next instalment. I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Letschat1974.
834 reviews10 followers
June 25, 2021
4/3.5 stars (enjoy Maureen Driscoll, Elisa Braden, Sophie Jordon, Samantha Holt, Stacy Reid)

The development and interest in main characters and secondary characters was enjoyable. I really did like the H/H for this book; very well paired as a couple.

I loved the writing around the women empowerment (it wasn’t over the top for me). Badass women rock…she eventually came into her own.

writing style is easy to follow, humorous moments, the give and take dialogue enjoyable; Modern vocabulary.

Romantic/sexual content (kissing, oral, love making scenes) was throughout the book. Nothing over the top; again nicely intertwined in the story. 2/5 hotness and steam.

I love series around family members or a group of friends. I love the series even more when the author intertwines those characters throughout the book series (it’s a pet peeve when authors don’t do that because what’s the point of the series and introducing the characters if they are not going to interact throughout the series). each book you rarely saw pervious book characters which was a let down for me.

would recommend this book and series (you don’t have to read them in order, each book could be a stand alone)
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,604 reviews30 followers
June 23, 2021
Believe your love

Juliet is a madam at a brothel! Evan needs a wife or at least a fake fiance to present to his grandfather! There is a vicious attack snd Juliet is not convinced the money is more than worth the trip! Juliet is strongly attracted to Evan as she does not expect to be after her previous life choices make her trust no man! Evan does t know how to talk to women and has made some stupid vows as a child and won't admit those vows were childish and the past not the present! Evan grandfather shared a huge chunk of the blame no one should let their flesh and blood be mistreated a childhood can not be regained!
When Evan brother goes too far he finally realizes what a monster he is! Will Evan be too late to save Juliet a woman who never wants to need saving! Evan needs to let go of the past and embrace the future before it's too late!! A wild ride! Hang on its a tumultuous ride to a HEA!
Profile Image for Aj.
2,538 reviews
June 7, 2021
A gripping angst filled regency romance that gives you so much emotion.

Evan and Juliet quickly give in to their attraction, fighting every form of commitment but in the end a true and deep love forms that they can't deny or run away from. Juliet is strong and resilient but with a heart of gold, I loved how she was the stronger character in lots of ways. Evan was blinded by too many familial troubles that he almost loses what's right in front of him - a chance at a future that he never thought he could have.

K.J Jackson does a wonderful job at developing their characters and makes you feel part of their story.
975 reviews5 followers
June 18, 2021
Evan and Julia

Well written and exceptional story and characters. Evan needed a fake fiancee to convince his Grandfather he was going to marry for his supposedly dying grandfather. but little does he know that his twin brother has an evil streak a hundred mile wide. Julia sees Bolshevik Evans twin brother is. Julia has seen where Gilroy the twin brother has beaten and nearly killed his wife before Julia spirited her away to safety. They Gilroy locks Julia away intending to kill her until Evan sets the trap and rescues her. Evan and Julia commit sole to each other and have their HEA would highly recommend this series and author as you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Deepa.
472 reviews1 follower
June 20, 2021
Juliet is a madam. She has a troublesome 'stalker'. When one of her staff suggests she enter into a pretend engagement to get away from her stalker, she agrees.
Evan is a part of an old family where they haven't had females in the line. His grandfather wishes to see him married before he dies.
The book is about the pretend engagement, Evan's crazy family and Juliet and Evan making a permanent connection.
Its not necessarily un-putdownable nor does it have most original and witty dialogue or absolutely fantastic chemistry between the main characters that leaves you tingling but it is definitely worth a read.
I am going back for more in the series
Profile Image for Aj.
2,538 reviews
July 11, 2021
A gripping angst filled regency romance that gives you so much emotion.

Evan and Juliet quickly give in to their attraction, fighting every form of commitment but in the end a true and deep love forms that they can't deny or run away from. Juliet is strong and resilient but with a heart of gold, I loved how she was the stronger character in lots of ways. Evan was blinded by too many familial troubles that he almost loses what's right in front of him - a chance at a future that he never thought he could have.

K.J Jackson does a wonderful job at developing their characters and makes you feel part of their story.
2,506 reviews29 followers
June 14, 2021
4.5 stars
This book had two very strong characters in Juliet Thomson and Evander Docherty, Lord Hedrun. They both had family issues to deal with, and gradually we learn of these, through the story. Juliet and Evan have an attraction to each other and this deepens as they travel together. However, they both have reasons for not wanting to marry. I did feel for Evan when reading of his background when he was a child but he did seem to have a blind spot when dealing with his sibling. The grandfather was a wily one but very likeable. There are some steamy moments and dangerous events. This was an entertaining read as usual with this author.
4,720 reviews41 followers
June 21, 2021
Excellent book
Evan and Juliet's story was an entertaining and splendid read. It had action, danger a super villain who is such a selfish jerk interwoven in a love story between a fallen lady and a Scottish Lord. They make a deal that starts off as a way to please the Lord’s grandfather and ends with so much more. You have great twists and drama in the book and it will completely captivate the reader with its beautifully written words. Excellent work and I highly recommend the book. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Profile Image for MARIE MARUCCI.
518 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2022
From the minute we were introduced to Gilroy, I knew he was trouble!! Although, shocked to learn he was the culprit behind the altercation during Evan's and Juliet's travels early on.

Juliet, with her learned experience, saw through him. Although, I was thinking that he might have caused Ness' miscarriages and possibly been poisoning the grandfather, too. Luckily, grandfather shared his "deceit" with Juliet.

Evan was SOOOO stubborn and blinded by his brother, but thank goodness he finally saw the light.

The love story of Evan and Juliet made this a page-turner.
Author 8 books13 followers
December 1, 2022
Surprised by the very high rating. It was fine. Engaging enough while reading. But I found the hero's conflict rather tedious. The tension and emotional relationship did not build up sufficiently and I was startled when they embarked on their sexual relationship. And my personal pet peeve: the use of danger to enhance the tension in the relationship instead of character development. Even though book 3 seems like it is a trope I like (brooding hero not open to love falls in love) I think I'm going to skip it. I'm not convinced it will be done the way I personally like to see that trope done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews