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Regency Romance between an angelic vicar and a devilish debutante: A must read if you love sweet and sizzle with an abundance of heart.

THE DEVILISH DEBUTANTE
Miss Rhododendron Mossant has given up on men, love, and worst of all, herself. Once a flirtatious beauty, the nightmares of her past have frozen her in fear. Ruined and ready to call it quits, all she can hope for is divine intervention.

THE ANGELIC VICAR
Justin White, Vicar turned Earl, has the looks of an angel but the heart of a rake. He isn't prepared to marry and yet honor won't allow anything less. Which poses something of a problem... because, by God, when it comes to this vixen, a war is is waging between his body and his soul.

SCANDAL'S SWEET SIZZLE
She’s hopeless and he’s hopelessly devoted. Together they must conquer the ton, her disgrace, and his empty pockets. With a little deviousness, and a miracle or two, is it possible this devilish match was really made in heaven?

Hell of a Lady is the fourth book in the Devil's Debutantes Series but can also be read as a standalone novel.

Book 1: Hell Hath No Fury (Cecily)
Book 2: Hell in a Hand Basket (Sophia)
Book 3: Hell's Belle (Emily)
Book 4: Hell of a Lady (Rhoda)
Novella: Hell Hath Frozen Over

295 pages, ebook

First published November 29, 2018

541 people are currently reading
277 people want to read

About the author

Annabelle Anders

143 books1,323 followers
Married to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.

After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car. 

At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.

And then the energy market dropped off.

And then my dog died.

I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.

Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!

To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!

www.annabelleanders.com
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5 stars
266 (43%)
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198 (32%)
3 stars
110 (18%)
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25 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels).
1,286 reviews1,712 followers
April 13, 2024
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 (for kisses and partial)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): (There is only an interrupted partial scene)
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: almost immediately (chapter 1)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes
Format: listened to audio from the library (Hoopla)
(Descriptions found at end of my review)

Should I read in order?
I would say yes. The events of the series are referenced, there’s character cross over, and this book and book 3 kind of happen concurrently in parts so I think it might flow better to read in order. (Though for a rebel reader, it’s still doable. There’s nothing ongoing in the series that will be confusing without the prior books)

Basic plot:
Rhoda has almost given up on finding a marriage prospect when an awful bet is placed at a men’s club and she starts getting harassed. Justin must marry for money, but his honor calls for him to protect penniless Rhoda...

Give this a try if you want:
- Regency
- vicar turned Earl hero
- bet made against the heroine’s virtue is a plot point
- compromised heroine
- house party
- low steam – there’s quite a few kisses but only a partial scene and nothing complete for a sex act in this story

Ages:
- I didn’t catch them. If I had to guess, I’d guess Rhoda was around 20, maybe mid 20s and Justin was late 20s?

First line:
“I don’t understand it, Emily.”

My thoughts:
I think what really threw me for a loop with this one was I didn’t realize there was a novella attached to the end of my hoopla audio. So, I was glancing at the percentage and waiting to get to the ‘good part’ where they actually come together, and the book ended. And I was totally unprepared for that and it felt really abrupt to me (but I might have just been deluding myself because of the percentages…)

I did like this one – Rhoda and Justin are both needing to marry for money. Rhoda has hardly any dowry to offer so she is struggling to find a marriage match. Justin never thought he would become an Earl – he lived a simple life as a vicar before all this – but finds he desperately needs money to help his tenants and work on his estate. And they come together rather unexpectedly.

I love compromised heroine. It’s one of my favorite historical tropes. I liked both mains but I found myself not loving them. Rhoda did annoy me a touch, but I’m not sure why – maybe the way she said hurtful things and was prepared to go with another guy. Justin was enjoyable but a bit too wishy washy for me.

I was SO disappointed there wasn’t a full steamy scene. I was ready for it. And it ended without one and I was so confused because it felt like it was ending out of nowhere.

Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.


Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:


Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Profile Image for 🦉Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
December 3, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋

Hell of a Lady ,
Hell of a Book ,
Hell of an Author.

What an end to the Devilish Debutantes.
I have loved and lived every word written in this series.
From Cecily and Stephan , to Sophie and Dev,
Onto Emily and Blakely and now Rhoda and Justin , the family is now complete, the stories have been some of the best I’ve read .
This one Rhoda and Justin is just as exceptional as the others , Annabelle’s gift is on show once again , this tale of deception, coercion, friendship , trust and love had me anxiously turning page after page , not caring that I was supposed to be sleeping , more important matters were afoot .
Who would win the bet ?
Who would put Kensington in his place ?
Would Rhoda be ruined ?
Was Justin in love with her , and was love enough?
My mind was in turmoil!
Thanks to Annabelle I now have my answers and can sleep soundly .
However , you don’t .
Get reading , your going to love this one !
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
Profile Image for Annabelle Anders.
Author 143 books1,323 followers
August 2, 2022
Loved finishing out this series! Hope I have lived up to expectations!
Profile Image for Lorrie.
272 reviews2 followers
December 6, 2018
I love how this author has the ability to intertwine her stories moving from one couple to the next. That's a mark of true talent.

My favorite thing about all of the books in this series is how close these girls are and how much they lean on each other for support. There's nothing one wouldn't do for the other. That said, our dear Rhoda has been caught in a scandal and has yet to learn about the betting going on at White's that has smeared her reputation. She's confused at the amount of attention she's receiving and how quickly her dance card is filling up.

Enter the hero...a vicar turned earl but not by choice. He sees beyond the rumors and gossip mongers and being a vicar has the desire to save her. It doesn't hurt that he's attracted to her as well.

The story unfolds from there when the entire group is invited to a house party where all is revealed. I loved the story but thought Justin's physical reactions to Rhoda were a bit off for me. With him being a man of the church, I don't think his thoughts would go south so quickly. Other than this tiny detail, LOVED the story. I would rate this book a 4.8 and was gifted with an ARC. I'm offering my review as a thank you.
Profile Image for Gwessie Tee.
451 reviews13 followers
December 7, 2018
Absolutely brilliant book, utterly loved it and the ensing aswell as epilogue are fantastic.

Will not give spoilers but will say I utterly love this book it most definitely does not disappoint, from heartbreak to high jinks, a foe I would love to seriously punch despite being a lady myself I would love to have called him out. (I'm usually passive i promise). Seriously thoughthis story our hero and heroine both stubborn, yet most definitely fight for those tbey hold dear to their hearts I utterly adore the fun and their journey to their Happy Ever After is most definitely well earned by them both. Cant wait to read the next series begining with The Perfect Debutante, even tbough all can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading all.

Thank you for writing this awesome book x.
3,217 reviews67 followers
February 13, 2022
I loved this author but not this book, the plot or the characters. The h was a born victim, acted so foolishly not once but multiple times, and kept compounding her errors. Most of the men were revolting, and I didn't like the H either, even though he's a vicar. I couldn't read this one.
Profile Image for Kat Tolle.
639 reviews13 followers
December 3, 2018
You had me at the very first page of this story! Hell Of A Lady by Annabelle Anders is book 4 of the Devilish Debutantes series and what an amazing series this is! Though part of a series this book can be read as a standalone but I do recommend you read the other 3 books in this series. Annabelle is truly a genius in her writing and her stories are just so original that I want this series to go on for forever. I love stories that are based on wallflowers and the most likely not to find love yet each had an amazing tale to tell. Annabelle’s characters are so wonderful that you can’t help but fall in love and I found that in Hell Of A Lady, I could not stop cheering for Rhoda and Justin, who knew that a vicar could be so sexy! This is one of my favorites for the year!! This story has death, possible murder, trust, schemes, a dachshund names Peaches, a wager, evil, greed, respect, honesty, misunderstandings, attempted rape, rescue and love. This is a must read and I highly recommend this book or any of Annabelle Anders’s books… You won’t be disappointed.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Profile Image for Janet.
5,179 reviews64 followers
December 10, 2018
This book takes place at the same time as Hell's Belle, Miss Rhododendron Mossant, Rhoda once a flirtatious beauty but the nightmares of her past have frozen her in fear. Justin White a vicar who has recently inherited an earldom, has the looks of an angel but the heart of a rake. He isn't prepared to marry and yet honour won't allow anything less. Which poses something of a problem... because, by God, when it comes to this vixen, a war is waging between his body and his soul.
This is a lovely ending to this brilliant series. This book could be read on its own but seriously, why would you when there are four delightful young women to get to know. The whole series is definitely a keeper. Rhoda & Justin are so perfect for each other but the road to their HEA whilst it isn’t easy it's very, very entertaining. The book drew me in from the first page & held me to the last. Another author who's books I can't start on an evening if I want to sleep! An engrossing, captivating read.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for iread.
826 reviews11 followers
December 4, 2018
Hell of a Lady is book four in the Devilish Debutantes series. Annabelle Anders is a master of romance writing. She does a fabulous job layering her characters. I enjoyed this book; however, I feel deeply that she missed the mark somewhat in the plot of her story. Her hero is a Vicar. As a Vicar he has some very strong beliefs in God and in right and wrong. Up until the last few chapters the hero responds as a man of integrity would in his given situation. But not giving anything away, I believe Anders does a disservice to her hero Justin in the end.
There are several steamy scenes in it. On the whole I enjoyed this series. I really liked the friendship between the four girls. Make sure you read the entire series in order. I was gifted a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Pamela.
126 reviews1 follower
December 5, 2018
What could happen when the devilish debutantes get together? Everything! Rhododendron’s reputation is in shambles. The betting book at White’s has her being compromised as one of the largest bets in history! Justin White, former vicar and now an earl, is an honest and upright young man. He has been drawn to Rhododendron for some time. She finds him easy to talk to about her past struggles. Theirs is a sweet story of love and redemption. Annabelle Ander’s continues to shine in her writing!

I did receive an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Lesanamar.
29 reviews4 followers
December 7, 2018
Wowowowow! I loved this series and I love how the author ends it with this book. Each book has something special to offer and this one doesn't disappoint. Anders has a way of twisting the most interesting little ironies into her books, and she totally did it with this one. Although these can all be read alone, I recommend working through the entire series, starting with Hell hath no fury, then Hell in a hand basket, hell's bell, and finish up with this one.
1,612 reviews5 followers
December 10, 2018
Christmas came early!

This book is here! There is so much to talk about that I will not ruin it for anybody who hasn't read this yet but know that vicar is still a passionate man. I want to say so much about this book all the good things there are no bad. If you want a really good story any of the books in this series you could not go wrong . I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Liberty.
422 reviews
December 10, 2018
Rhoda's story is my favorite so far! I have read the other books in this series, so parts of the story felt familiar, but oh how delightful are the parts from Rhoda and Justin's point of view. This eventful tale kept me riveted from the beginning to the end!
Profile Image for Carlene Michalk.
72 reviews3 followers
December 7, 2018
I have to say, what a satisfying ending to the Devilish Debutantes series.I was waiting on Rhoda’s story for the longest.And, of course it was absolutely awesome seeing all of the girls all together again from all of the other books. (Which, I highly recommend those as well. It’s much more satisfying when you read them all in order).
So,If you have a bit of humor and heart you would love these books.
The story is driven more on emotion. Rhoda Is finding it hard to trust another man again after what happened to her in the past. She blames herself and she let it cloud her vision from trusting hardly anyone again while becoming a ghost of her former self. When she is cast in to a wager, she must figure a way out of it.
Justin,A vicar turned earl, he found himself in love with Rhoda for quite a while. But, knowing that she has heart aches from her past and, this awful wager that is being set upon her he will do anything in his power to save her.


You cannot help but root for these two in their struggles. As Justin raises her from the ashes and, hopefully trying to gain her affection as well. It was wonderful how the two interacted and you really felt their struggle when ever they were separated. And of course, I have to admit..haha The interruptions.
And of course, I did not expect to see Flavion again.I was so happy that he got what he deserved. But after I read Hell’s Bells, I just could not help but think of Rhoda after the closet scene. And, oh of course this series has been one hell of a ride!

As I said, this one is really good with displaying emotions while making you feel for the characters. The main couple are absolutely charming when ever they are together and, as I said before you will root for them. And of course all of the colorful characters from the other books return as well and, that made me happy seeing them all together again. And of course the epilogue at the end had me smiling. Go and pick this lovely book up. I highly recommend the entire series if you have not read them yet.

I have read the ARC review and this is my honest opinion of this novel. As always, I await whatever this author publishes. I am highly awaiting her next novel!
Profile Image for Patricia King.
768 reviews15 followers
February 3, 2019
The story of Rhododendron Mossant and Justin White finishes out the Devilish Debutantes series for Ms. Anders, or does it? I hear tale there's a sixth book in the making and I couldn't be happier.... 😁😍

This story, about the eldest daughter of a very seemingly dysfunctional upper class family has made a poor choice based on lies, a young Earl St. John told her. Thus, putting her in a most precarious situation following his untimely death. But before his death, St. John, none other than, ruined her reputation by bragging about the intimacies of their relationship. Making a pack with her good friend Emily, Rhoda promises to marry, but only after Emily does.

Now fate definitely plays a hand in determining the man she will ultimately fall for. But will he fall for her? Justin White, a Vicar has just inherited an Earldom. Not only has he inherited the title and the estate that accompanies it, he has fallen head over heals in love with Miss Rhoda Mossant. Whoops, did I just answer my own question?

But wait, it's not really that easy. There's a wager on who will bed Miss Mossant next. And The Earl of Kensington is at it again. He is bound to have Miss Mossant and the monies that bedding her will bring him. Read this tale of whoa for Rhododendron Mossant and Justin White, the newly titled Earl of Carlisle. You will definitely be entertained in the same fashion I have come to love, with Ms. Anders writing style. There is an abundance of laughable moments with this story for sure. I promise you will enjoy it immensely. I was given an advanced reader copy from the author in an exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
429 reviews24 followers
December 3, 2018
This book takes place at the same time as Hell's Belle so I was excited to see what happened between these two. I've never seen a story with a Vicar turned Earl so that was definitely something new that I loved. These two clearly have something between them from the start, but they have battles to win first. I loved how much confusion there was between them about everything. There was a couple of times that I was afraid of what a certain person would do. Her father was a total shock and I wanted to wack him. A real surprise was her mother and I loved her for it. There are some fun twists with the ladies and a well-deserved end for one person. The ending left me laughing and happy to see them all happy.

Rhoda is almost a shell of herself, but there is still a fire in her. I loved how she opened up to him and was ready to battle the ton. She needed someone that would understand her and help her get over the past and see she is safe.

Justin had loved her longer than anyone knew and he would do anything for her. He came to her resue in more ways than one. I loved how he always stayed positive and didn't give up.

There are a few scenes that could potentially be triggering to some. There are attempted sexual assaults, but they are brief and not graphic.

Copy provided for an honest and voluntary review
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews129 followers
December 12, 2018
Regency romance at it's best with a slow burn that engaged my senses until the end! Every time I read a new book by Annabelle Anders, I am reminded of how much I love her writing! My romantic heart was engaged from the first page when Rhododendron (love that name!) Mossart was engaged in conversation by Justin White, the vicar, while at a ball. The two shared a past together that was painful to remember.
But in a blink of an eye, everything changed. Actually it had been brewing, but a careless bet set the outcome. Of course she has her wonderful (wallflowers at one time!) friends, but that may not be enough. So who might come to the rescue? The vicar now turned Earl, Justin White who will not let her honor and name be impinged?
There are not enough words to express how much I enjoyed this book. Historical romance at it's best filled with all the ingredients that make my heart stir! Although this can be read as a standalone, trust me, you will want to read them all and be delighted over and over again!
Profile Image for Tandie.
1,563 reviews249 followers
October 17, 2019
This was such a sweet romance. Justin, the vicar unexpectedly elevated to earl, was so earnest and honorable. He’s a keeper; putting him on my book boyfriend shelf.

Rhododendron, aka Rhoda, is in a bad situation due to a jerkman who kissed and told. Well, they more than kissed. Fortunately, jerkman fell to his death. Unfortunately, somebody started a wager at White’s, and half the ton is placing bets. The bet? Who will be the first man to compromise Rhoda again.

Suddenly, Rhoda’s dance card is filled. Gentlemen are doggedly chasing her for not nice reasons. As the wager nears 100,000 pounds, some nasty gents become intent on nailing her, with or without consent. Titled men got away with quite a lot back in the day!

There was a scene of a party game played at a house party. Justin tried to get Rhoda to kiss him on the cheek, and it was so sweet! I loved their private talks and how they shared deep secrets.

* There was one half sex scene (coitus interuptus due to MOM walking in!) between an engaged couple, and it wasn’t very detailed.

229 reviews2 followers
December 8, 2018
There is so much I loved about each book in this series. Each hero and heroine had so much to overcome, but maybe none so much has Rhoda. She wasted her virtue on the wrong Lord, he spread the word she was loose, then he died. She thinks she killed a man in saving her friend and then the men of the ton place a wager on who will be the next to bed her. Lord Carlisle, former Vicar, just inherited the title and finds it fiscally bankrupt. Justin met Rhoda during the worst year of their lives, but they found each other anyway. This series is about four strong women, each battling the restrictions of the ton and finding that their friendship and finding love is the answer to a happier life.
Profile Image for Susan.
423 reviews9 followers
January 24, 2019
5+ STARS Loved it!

So glad I discovered this author this past year. Absolutely love this series, and waited anxiously for each book to release. Great writing that grabs your attention immediately, with amazing characters that you can’t get enough of. Highly recommend 📚❤️📚
698 reviews7 followers
October 14, 2020
Trials and Tribulations

Miss Rhodadendrend is embroiled in the scandal of the century in London Vicar Justin White loves her from afar until he becomes an Earl These two find their happily ever after a very hard journey indeed. One if the best books I've read
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews144 followers
August 16, 2020
Overcoming a Mistaken Tragedy 💀

ADULT Historical Regency Romance 💕
Rhoda💃💋 didn't like Sophia's stepbrother, so when he tried to sexually assault her at the edge of a high and dangerous seaside cliff, she shoved him away from her and he went over!

No one saw anything and she never said anything, but for a year she has blamed herself for his death. No one has seen him since, so he must be dead!

Rhoda's heart💘 is with Justin, a Vicar who is now the Earl of Carlisle. They were childhood friends, but as young men often do, he began to tease her unmercifully and they drifted apart.

There are other deaths💀 and tragedies as well as a lot of lies and stupidity in the book. But never fear, young love💘 will persevere!
Profile Image for Candy Briggs.
731 reviews14 followers
November 9, 2022
What an amazing author she is. She tells fresh stories in titillating ways. I loved this book. She thought she was loved but she was not. Then he died, but he had told every male in London what went on. He was not an honorable man. It caused some special people a lot of trouble. She made some massive mistakes. Along comes the Vicar who tries to save her.

There are a lot of turns in this novel and it keeps you guessing and wanting to know. It was an easy read and very entertaining. It also engaged you to ask questions you needed answers to and what was happening. Rhoda and Justin were great characters and seemed suited. I hope everyone enjoys this book as much as I did.

I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
435 reviews4 followers
Read
January 23, 2024
I just could not be bothered to care. This girl is beyond an idiot. Mistakes are one thing, but she shows herself capable of crafty, selfish scheming and lies. Maybe I’m feeling particularly uncharitable but I did not want an HEA for Rhoda. Even if given the benefit of the doubt, someone so deeply immature should is not in a position to be a life partner. She immediately regrets her actions but she continues to lack meaningful introspection. During the proposal scene, when Justin justifiably questions her honesty, Rhoda jumps right to feeling outraged that he would question her integrity, angry that her ruined reputation would cause him to doubt her—uh, no girl, he can’t trust you because you’ve shown yourself to be manipulative and untrustworthy with HIM. You manipulated HIM. Fucking unbelievable that she completely overlooks her deliberate scheming and has the gall to be angry with him for (rightly) assuming the worst of her.

Yes, she was a victim of disgusting men, but it’s almost as though the author’s message is that the women are *entirely* justified in breaking the rules — even if that extends to manipulating people — to work the system in whatever way they can. I like the idea of women leveraging what little power have and using society’s patriarchal strictures to their benefit, but when innocent people are used as tools it makes it difficult to side with the ostensible heroine. A writer like Scarlett Peckham does this well because she crafts intelligent female anti-heroes who are calculating and in a ways I can respect because — KEY REASON — they are also self-aware; in this story Rhoda comes across as a disingenuous dummy. She’s like a teenager whose frontal lobe hasn’t fully developed. I believe heroines who act without fully thinking through the consequences of their actions are common in romance, but there needs to be a resolution to the fallout from their actions; for Rhoda there’s no real fallout (she doesn’t even doubt the veracity of Justin’s feelings for her) and no need for resolution because her scheming is simply forgotten.

I had no idea why Justin the vicar-turned-earl was so taken with Rhoda. I didn’t understand what he saw in her in the first place, and any esteem I might have held for him vanished with his continuing affection for her. The romance between these two was entirely lacking.

You’d think her deception would be the major impediment to their road to happiness, but reader, you would be wrong. Her lies are basically forgotten because Justin is really into Rhoda despite it all. Then the story absolutely drags as the rest of the book is taken up with resolving Rhoda’s betting book scandal and the death of Lord Kensington. Justin doesn’t do much except rage about his principles and solve the mystery of Lord Kensington, while Rhoda does nothing. (And who cares about the death of Kensington plot line? I didn’t and it did not impact the story at all). This whole situation is an unnecessary plot machination that serves only to postpone the inevitable marriage. There’s no forward movement in the romance (aside from sex on a settee), no meaningful development of the characters. Also a big WTF to having Rhoda’s mother walk in on them literally mid-coitus—what was the point of this?! I’m guessing the writer was trying to achieve a different take on the marriage (or rather, proposal) of convenience that comes about through underhanded scheming, but ultimately I did not care about these two and I was bored by the other plot faff.
Profile Image for Darlene Foster.
745 reviews6 followers
December 14, 2018
As I've sat by my sister's bedside for days now, I've been kept company by a lovely novel. Annabelle Anders latest story, Hell Of A Lady, was just what I needed. This Devilish Debutantes series finale works as a standalone but I guarantee you'll want to catch up with the other couples.

Miss Rhododendron, Rhoda, Mossant is in a pickle. Her beau died in an accident but not before he bragged about their "encounter". Some cad placed a bet in the book at White's. Who would Rhoda bestow her favors on next? The pot has gotten to the point of being ridiculous. The past year has been a living hell for our heroine. She's burdened by several secrets that haven't been shared with even her 3 best friends. Such a lovely 19 year old lady should be enjoying the London season but not Rhoda. She knows something is afoot when ton gentlemen begin crawling out of the woodwork (new word: obsequiously), all after this self-professed wallflower. She's about to find out just how much extra trouble her young life faces.

Mr. Justin White, former vicar, has become the new Earl of Carlisle. He's uncomfortable with this new turn his life has taken. He's now an eligible, handsome, titled gentleman. Mama's are throwing their daughters at him, almost literally. His lovely blond hair and sky blue eyes make the ladies willing to be thrown. The word hasn't gotten around yet that his newly inherited estate is broke and in disrepair. Being handsome will have a lady with a nice dowry chasing him anyway. Did I mention that he's very handsome?

Justin was enchanted by Rhoda the first time they met. Her chestnut hair and caramel colored eyes send him to the moon. Circumstances sent them in different directions but now that Justin is in London, he only has eyes for Rhoda. Rhoda needs protection from the "gentlemen" and Justin needs money. Can these two find a way to fix all their numerous problems and live a long, happy, married life?

Ms Anders has offered up a love story with fear, guilt, hope, hopelessness, unquestioning friendship and true love. The elements of faith were just what I needed. Trust that all will be as it should, but a helping hand is always appreciated. As this is a romance book there is a happy ending. We'd be disappointed if there wasn't. Receiving a free ARC is a privilege and one I certainly enjoy. Being able to share my opinion is a pleasure. Both are free and without obligation. Happy reading.
Profile Image for Kiley.
1,872 reviews46 followers
May 21, 2021
This 4th book in the Devilish Debutantes series was difficult to write a review on. There was so much happening, and there were 30 chapters in which all this information was contained, that it was almost too much information for one book. It was almost as if there were two or three books compiled in the one. However, what was actually occurring is that the author was recapping the 4 previous books (yes, this was book 4, but there was book 3.5 before this, so it could easily have been made book 5 instead) before getting to the point of this plot. Most of it was unnecessary, in my honest opinion.
Once again, the characters were all well-rounded and most, if not all, from the previous books, made an appearance in this one. The author did well when she created the friendships that lasted from book to book.
Justin White, the main male character, was a vicar turned earl with high morals. But even with those morals and his past position in the church, even he admitted to being just a man. He was a well-liked member of the ton and the Prescott family.
Rhoda, a miss just shy of a Lady (not the capital letter. She was definitely a lady in all sense except for the title), had secrets that were tearing her apart inside, some of which the men of the ton were using against her and ruining her reputation.
There was plenty of chemistry between the two main characters, and a smoldering passion kept on a tight leash. The drama, angst, humor, and intrigue were all running on full steam. All of this wrapped together in a sizzling plot.
Once again, I have to say, Lord Blakely was not an Earl. Since his father was a Duke, that made Blakely a Marquis. That would be one of my biggest pet peeves about authors of historical romance books...or any historical book. If they are going to write about it, they need to get it right.
The ending was superb. Just the right amount of intrigue, drama, angst, passion...and let's never forget the humor. This book definitely earned its place among the other Keeper for the Shelves books.
Profile Image for Sandra R.
3,347 reviews47 followers
February 22, 2020
3.5 stars. This book is quite fun to read and very tongue in cheek. It's well written and I liked the H/h. This Historical romance is set in England around 200 years ago. It has an amusing back story and although it's number 4 of a series I had no problem understanding the characters. If you are expecting a realistic Historical then then book isn't for you. It's a crowd pleaser and a situation comedy of sorts. Newly minted earl meets scandalous (or not) debutant and falls head over heels, with all sorts of obsticles blocking the path of true love along the way. There's a small steamy scene near the end, but blink and you'll miss it. LOL. Lots of attempted 'bodice ripping' due to a wager placed on the heroine's virtue. I will be going back to read the other books in due course, as I enjoyed the story.😊

PS. On the concerning side for a Historical romance :- I thought the situations were pretty modern, as is the speech. I picked up a 'yeah' and an 'okay'. Also I questioned the timelines when it came to travelling. I thought they said the house party was in Kent, but it only took the coach 4 1/2 hours from there to London (39 miles) - which is possibly duable. Coaches had an average speed of 5/6 miles an hour. Then our hero rode from Kent to Bristol (153 miles) and back to London(117 miles) in 4 days. Google says a horse can travel around 30 miles a day, going at a good speed. He also made a couple of stops on the way to see people, so big question mark. Plus another couple in our story went to Gretna Green (347 miles one way) and were back in 4/5 days as well... And all these 1,000 pound wagers; seems a lot for those days... 🤔
Profile Image for Polly Barreto.
764 reviews8 followers
December 6, 2018
Hell of A Lady by Annabelle Anders is book 4 of the Devilish Debutantes series. While you can read each book as a stand-alone, I suggest you read them order to understand all the devilish debutantes and the men that captured their hearts.

Miss Rhododendron Mossant (Rhoda) has found herself in a quandary. Her past is catching up with her and she has lost all hope of ever being free of it. Can her besties Cecily, Sophia, and Emily find a way to free her from trouble, or will a good looking Vicar turned Earl be the answer to her prayers?

Justin White a Vicar turned Earl, is trying his hardest to stay away from the scandal and Ms. Mossant. However, he is losing the battle and quickly. Can he save her from the wager? Protect her at all costs? By God he is going to give it his all!

You will be turning the pages to find out who will win the wager that has been placed upon Rhoda, along with the scheming these devilish debutantes can come up with!

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.***

Order of reading:
Book 1: Hell Hath No Fury (Cecily)
Book 2: Hell in a Hand Basket (Sophia)
Book 3: Hell's Belle (Emily)
Book 4: Hell of a Lady (Rhoda)
Novella: Hell Hath Frozen Over
Profile Image for Maria Dariotis .
783 reviews17 followers
December 11, 2018
Hell of A Lady
by Annabelle Anders
book 4 of the Devilish Debutantes series.

Each book can be read as a stand-alone, but why do you possible want to miss out on the previous ones? They are utterly FANTASTIC!

This is Miss Rhododendron Mossant (Rhoda) and THE VICAR Justin White’s story. Rhoda is in a slight pickle the past is going to collide with her at a break-neck speed and she has no idea how to change its course. It will take plenty of cunning and scheming to get Rhoda out of this mess but if anyone can do it it’s the DEBUTANTES! Oh and one super sexy Vicar! And he’s everything that Rhoda needs!

This was an amazing finale to Annabelle Anders Debutante series it was one high octane page turning story! I loved every single word! Justin and Rhoda are simply the best together their attraction just singed the pages I loved the way we got to see the rest of the women come together to find a solution for her. Justin is simply delish theres plenty of intrigue and mischief going on that keep the reader on edge. Annabelle Anders really knows how to pull you in she truly is a very talented author! Can’t wait to read what she has next!

I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Kate_mrs539.
377 reviews8 followers
January 4, 2019
Honestly, this is my favorite of all 4 books! What I loved most was how Hell of a Lady ran parallel to Hell's Bell. Both unique in their own way but intertwined, making the most of a good story!

These ladies have been known to get into some trouble but I feel like Rhoda really took the brunt of it with the shame to her reputation. Without giving away any of the story or surprises, her problems are almost heartbreaking, sorta soul crushing and definitely would put a girl on alert.

Vicar Justin White to the rescue...sort of. Justin has his own problems and struggles with needing to handle business and saving Rhoda from hers.

These two getting together is nothing short of miraculous. Their heat and intensity is on point. The angst of will they or won't they ever really get together was high. There really isn't anything to complain about with this story. It gave me all I needed. I giggled a little bit at the antics of the girls, was emotionally pulled in from the beginning and the mystery of it all kept me intrigued the entire time.

I am almost sad to see these stories end! The only hope for me now is that at the end we get a preview of what is next and it looks equally delish! Can't wait!

I am giving Hell of a Lady 5 stars because it ticked off all my must haves and left me wanting more...even though I know this was the end for these 4 friends.

Review by Corrie H. for Lamplight Review and Promotion
**I received an ARC for an honest review.
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