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Ladies of the Order #2
More than a Masquerade
An enquiry agent seeking her first case.
After spending weeks eagerly awaiting an assignment, Rachel Gambit is instructed to meet her potential new client at a Vauxhall masquerade. She’s been given a list of instructions: to wear red, to find the mysterious gentleman amongst the crowd, with no clue to his identity. But if, by God’s good grace, she finds the man, she must go through a series of tests before he agrees to hire her.
A man on a mission.
Eli Hunter needs a woman who can act her way onto any Covent Garden stage. He needs a woman with steely determination and a cunning mind. A woman who can help him recover a stolen artefact owned by a secret society. But he encounters a problem. The only enquiry agent available stirs a passion that could soften the hardest heart—a terrifying prospect for a man who’s survived the worst kind of betrayal.
Can Rachel and Eli work together and suppress their obvious attraction?
When thrown in the midsts of danger, will they find something infinitely more precious than a stolen artefact?
Find out in - More than a Masquerade - Ladies of the Order Book 2 ♥
After spending weeks eagerly awaiting an assignment, Rachel Gambit is instructed to meet her potential new client at a Vauxhall masquerade. She’s been given a list of instructions: to wear red, to find the mysterious gentleman amongst the crowd, with no clue to his identity. But if, by God’s good grace, she finds the man, she must go through a series of tests before he agrees to hire her.
A man on a mission.
Eli Hunter needs a woman who can act her way onto any Covent Garden stage. He needs a woman with steely determination and a cunning mind. A woman who can help him recover a stolen artefact owned by a secret society. But he encounters a problem. The only enquiry agent available stirs a passion that could soften the hardest heart—a terrifying prospect for a man who’s survived the worst kind of betrayal.
Can Rachel and Eli work together and suppress their obvious attraction?
When thrown in the midsts of danger, will they find something infinitely more precious than a stolen artefact?
Find out in - More than a Masquerade - Ladies of the Order Book 2 ♥
264 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2021
135 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Adele Clee
53 books529 followersAdele Clee writes historical romance mysteries set in the early nineteenth century. Her stories blend romance with intrigue, gothic atmosphere, and a touch of scandal, often unfolding in Regency and early Victorian London. Readers praise her scarred heroines, brooding heroes, and the way love and mystery intertwine across each series.
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 14, 2024
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some tiny bits in the beginning of the story were a little interesting.
A strong and assertive heroine.
The hero is not a rogue/rake.
➖ What I disliked:
Heroine has Mary Sue vibes.
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice of both main characters.
(Hero= Tall, muscular, handsome…. Heroine= petite/dainty, slender etc.)
Kind of annoying hero.
The mystery part of the story is somewhat confusing at times and is also all over the place/disjointed… but also kind of rushed.
The end is also rushed and everything falls a little too easy into place.
September 30, 2021
As a new enquiry agent, Rachel Gambit has been waiting for weeks to receive her first assignment. Now she’s been directed to meet a potential client at Vauxhall and told to follow an explicit list of instructions and locate the gentleman in the crowd of revelers, without any clues as to his identity. Then, if she’s able to find him, she must still pass a series of further tests before he’ll hire her.
Eli Hunter has to find a woman with enough skill to think on her feet and put on a good act, one who can help him uncover a traitor in the midst of the Order. Complicating matters for him, the available female agent awakens feelings he’s long since beaten down, crumbling his barriers little by little and unnerving him after the betrayal that caused him to seal off his heart. Eli and Rachel must work together in the midst of great danger while simultaneously dealing with their budding attraction.
I’ve probably said this before, but Adele has truly outdone herself this time. I adore the whole concept of the Order and both ladies and gentlemen leading somewhat unconventional lives and working behind the scenes to help others. This book delivered an excellent mystery, but it really shocked me with how deeply romantic it was. Eli has to be one of the sweetest and most open heroes I’ve ever read, all the while still maintaining an endearing air of vulnerability and past pain. Rachel and Eli were perfect for each other and I’m not sure I’ve ever made quite so many highlights whilst reading. Both had past traumas to deal with and were excellent at helping each other work through their issues in a supportive way. Their chemistry was readily evident from the start, and it was so refreshing to see them both willing to acknowledge it; that made the building tension even more special and engrossing to read. I loved that the mystery and suspense existed here in equal parts with a strong romance and that Eli and Rachel were up front and open about their feelings. I adored the fact that neither tried to play any games or play it coy about what they were coming to mean to each other and wanting a future together. That honesty and lack of angst was exactly what I wanted to read, and this story engrossed me completely. I savored every word of this story and it’s my favorite thing that I’ve read in some time and it’s not to be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Eli Hunter has to find a woman with enough skill to think on her feet and put on a good act, one who can help him uncover a traitor in the midst of the Order. Complicating matters for him, the available female agent awakens feelings he’s long since beaten down, crumbling his barriers little by little and unnerving him after the betrayal that caused him to seal off his heart. Eli and Rachel must work together in the midst of great danger while simultaneously dealing with their budding attraction.
I’ve probably said this before, but Adele has truly outdone herself this time. I adore the whole concept of the Order and both ladies and gentlemen leading somewhat unconventional lives and working behind the scenes to help others. This book delivered an excellent mystery, but it really shocked me with how deeply romantic it was. Eli has to be one of the sweetest and most open heroes I’ve ever read, all the while still maintaining an endearing air of vulnerability and past pain. Rachel and Eli were perfect for each other and I’m not sure I’ve ever made quite so many highlights whilst reading. Both had past traumas to deal with and were excellent at helping each other work through their issues in a supportive way. Their chemistry was readily evident from the start, and it was so refreshing to see them both willing to acknowledge it; that made the building tension even more special and engrossing to read. I loved that the mystery and suspense existed here in equal parts with a strong romance and that Eli and Rachel were up front and open about their feelings. I adored the fact that neither tried to play any games or play it coy about what they were coming to mean to each other and wanting a future together. That honesty and lack of angst was exactly what I wanted to read, and this story engrossed me completely. I savored every word of this story and it’s my favorite thing that I’ve read in some time and it’s not to be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
October 4, 2021
He was not the same man he was a week ago. Rachel Gambit had breathed life into his withered heart. She had stirred dormant emotions. Renewed his faith in womankind. He was on a journey of discovery and would be a fool to change course now.
5 stars!
This novel is Adele Clee at her best as it encompasses all of the passion, intrigue, and undeniable romance that I've come to love from her novels! Rachel and Hunter have both been burned in the past and have decided not to trust the opposite sex for differing reasons. However when they are thrust together in order to discover who has betrayed the Order, they find themselves entranced by the other and yearning for something both have sworn off.
I loved watching as both Rachel and Hunter strived to make sense of their immediate and undeniable attraction for each other, when a logical answer was nowhere to be found. Hunter was protective even while trying to push Rachel away as she embodied everything he didn't want to desire, while Rachel saw through Hunter's harsh and solitary persona to the honorable man underneath. I truly could not put their story down as they worked to uncover who the traitor was amongst their group, and I loved the danger and mystery that Adele is a master at weaving into her stories. I am so stoked for Eliza and Roxburgh's book next as their reluctant flirtation towards the end was most promising! ♡
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
September 27, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
I can’t remember if there has ever been an Adele Clee book that I have not loved.
This series is brilliant, Ladies of the Order is unique, steamy, delicious and satisfying.
It also has agents from Gentleman of the Order who frequently pop in to help too.
The characters are charismatic and passionate about their work and their lives.
The storylines are very entertaining and enjoyable to read.
Five stars from me for this one.
Can’t wait to see what Adele comes up with next.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
I can’t remember if there has ever been an Adele Clee book that I have not loved.
This series is brilliant, Ladies of the Order is unique, steamy, delicious and satisfying.
It also has agents from Gentleman of the Order who frequently pop in to help too.
The characters are charismatic and passionate about their work and their lives.
The storylines are very entertaining and enjoyable to read.
Five stars from me for this one.
Can’t wait to see what Adele comes up with next.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
October 1, 2021
Must Read Book and Author
Adele Clee is an historical romance author who should be read by everyone who enjoys the genre. She is the best kept secret in the author world. She writes great romance, sultry seduction and thrilling plots. I have read all her books and have watched her grow as a writer, and she is at the top of her writing game. There are a ton of authors who receive more accolades but don’t haves Clee’s ability to craft a tale that is both romance and intrigue. I want more people to discover what they have been missing in not reading Clee.
More than a Masquerade is filled with scintillating romance, a dark and delicious hero and a heroine that I absolutely loved. The characters both have great backstories and the mystery plot kept me guessing until the end. This isn’t just a bed romp sex story disguised as a romance, it’s a true blue romance between two great characters.
Buy the book, or read it like I did on Kindle Unlimited.
Adele Clee is an historical romance author who should be read by everyone who enjoys the genre. She is the best kept secret in the author world. She writes great romance, sultry seduction and thrilling plots. I have read all her books and have watched her grow as a writer, and she is at the top of her writing game. There are a ton of authors who receive more accolades but don’t haves Clee’s ability to craft a tale that is both romance and intrigue. I want more people to discover what they have been missing in not reading Clee.
More than a Masquerade is filled with scintillating romance, a dark and delicious hero and a heroine that I absolutely loved. The characters both have great backstories and the mystery plot kept me guessing until the end. This isn’t just a bed romp sex story disguised as a romance, it’s a true blue romance between two great characters.
Buy the book, or read it like I did on Kindle Unlimited.
September 30, 2021
Another amazing story full of adventure, mystery, suspense, romance and written by the master pen of Adele Clee. One fact is always certain when I begin one of her books... it will keep me entertained and unable to stop until the end!
Also, we get to see previous characters from the Gentleman of the order as they intertwine aiding these characters. The characters are intense and realistic, full of dedication to their work and equally passionate in their relationships!
Can I just say wow! Love it and cannot wait for more!!
Also, we get to see previous characters from the Gentleman of the order as they intertwine aiding these characters. The characters are intense and realistic, full of dedication to their work and equally passionate in their relationships!
Can I just say wow! Love it and cannot wait for more!!
September 18, 2021
Lotsa Oomph!
This book is written with the usual high standards I have come to enjoy from Adele Clee and yet it ałso has more oomph to it.
It features the clever endeavors of one of the ladies working for The Order, Rachel Gambit who teams up with Eli Hunter and together they light up the pages of this sensual, fast moving page turner which is also quite romantic and a another mystery solver.
I devoured this story and enjoyed it so much. Now I eagerly await the next one. Happy reading!
I read an Advance Reader Copy and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.
This book is written with the usual high standards I have come to enjoy from Adele Clee and yet it ałso has more oomph to it.
It features the clever endeavors of one of the ladies working for The Order, Rachel Gambit who teams up with Eli Hunter and together they light up the pages of this sensual, fast moving page turner which is also quite romantic and a another mystery solver.
I devoured this story and enjoyed it so much. Now I eagerly await the next one. Happy reading!
I read an Advance Reader Copy and this is my voluntary and unbiased review.
September 26, 2021
The second book in Adele Clee’s ‘Ladies of the Order’ series, More than a Masquerade is a clever and entertaining addition to the series.
Following the ladies employed by Lucius Daventry as part of his secret investigative society that helps the poor and helpless, the Ladies of the Order are now the focus of this spin off series.
Miss Rachel Gambit has been recruited by Lucius Daventry and is eager to start on her first case. But her potential client has left a series of instructions and tests for her before she is deemed worthy. She is determined to prove her mettle but when she discovers who her client is can she concentrate on her mission instead of the urge to soothe his tortured soul when she senses a kindred spirit?
Mr Eli Hunter needs an exceptional woman and agent who will be able to decipher secret codes and face unknown dangers whilst trying to recover a stolen artifact and expose a traitor. He is immediately struck by Rachel’s beauty and courage. Already having suffered through the greatest betrayal can he let Rachel into his heart?
I genuinely liked this book very much. Eli and Rachel are very likeable characters and their romance felt natural. They developed a friendship and kinship before acting on their mutual passion. I found that they complemented each other really well.
Rachel has faced many hardships before finding sanctuary with Lucius Daventry’s group of agents but she hasn’t let that affect her attitude. She is brave, forthright, resourceful and honest. She recognises that Eli is troubled and yearns to help him overcome the bitterness within. She is exactly what he needed.
Eli has been betrayed in the past and has closed himself off from all emotions preferring to concentrate on his work. Meeting Rachel reawakens his desires and he finds himself wanting to spend time with her beyond the confines of the case.
The story flows smoothly. The mystery interlinks several threads and is complex but actually fairly easy to follow. It is well written and hugely enjoyable. We are introduced to the next couple in the series, Eliza and Roxburgh and I can sense the sparks flying already. Definitely looking forward to book 3.
I received an ARC copy but the opinions are my own.
Following the ladies employed by Lucius Daventry as part of his secret investigative society that helps the poor and helpless, the Ladies of the Order are now the focus of this spin off series.
Miss Rachel Gambit has been recruited by Lucius Daventry and is eager to start on her first case. But her potential client has left a series of instructions and tests for her before she is deemed worthy. She is determined to prove her mettle but when she discovers who her client is can she concentrate on her mission instead of the urge to soothe his tortured soul when she senses a kindred spirit?
Mr Eli Hunter needs an exceptional woman and agent who will be able to decipher secret codes and face unknown dangers whilst trying to recover a stolen artifact and expose a traitor. He is immediately struck by Rachel’s beauty and courage. Already having suffered through the greatest betrayal can he let Rachel into his heart?
I genuinely liked this book very much. Eli and Rachel are very likeable characters and their romance felt natural. They developed a friendship and kinship before acting on their mutual passion. I found that they complemented each other really well.
Rachel has faced many hardships before finding sanctuary with Lucius Daventry’s group of agents but she hasn’t let that affect her attitude. She is brave, forthright, resourceful and honest. She recognises that Eli is troubled and yearns to help him overcome the bitterness within. She is exactly what he needed.
Eli has been betrayed in the past and has closed himself off from all emotions preferring to concentrate on his work. Meeting Rachel reawakens his desires and he finds himself wanting to spend time with her beyond the confines of the case.
The story flows smoothly. The mystery interlinks several threads and is complex but actually fairly easy to follow. It is well written and hugely enjoyable. We are introduced to the next couple in the series, Eliza and Roxburgh and I can sense the sparks flying already. Definitely looking forward to book 3.
I received an ARC copy but the opinions are my own.
October 1, 2021
An engaging and intriguing mystery and romance with slow burn steam this is a lovely read set in the 1820's. Lucius Daventry the illegitimate son of a duke who has inherited his wealth is the head of a secret Order of Gentlemen a society of aristocrats with an egalitarian frame to help those of lesser means level the playing field against the wealthy and ennobled who in those days were definitely favored by the law. All the gentlemen were men of means and now Daventry has formed an Order of Women so that they might also take up the same cause. This is the second of the series and we are introduced to the lovely, super intelligent, curvaceous Rachel Gambit a flaxen haired beauty of 24 who has seen her share of hardships growing up orphaned at 16 after a shipwreck and sent to live with a relative, Lady Hanaway who adored Rachel but had two viciously mean abusive sons. Rachel is to earn her first assignment but is to be tested by the stern, always black garmented, terse Eli Hunter who wants Rachel to fail. Yet he cannot help himself in finding her to be a total siren and irresistible attraction despite his having no such feelings for some years now. They meet in the famed Vauxhall Gardens in London at night where he puts Rachel through mental and physical tests as he needs an agent to ferret out a traitor in his organization. There is a very slow but inevitable slow burning sensual desire growing between them though much more quickly in Rachel since Eli has issues in his past to overcome with her help. A good detective mystery read with delightful steamy parts later. Always good. Received this ARC and have voluntarily reviewed.
September 20, 2021
This book is another example of why I love Adele's work. The mystery, the love, the thrill, the sexiness, and just overall an enjoyable story every single time she puts out a book..
This is such a wonderful read, Rachel went through so much, and Eli had his own personal challenges, they never expected to fall in love while solving multiple cases, but they were destined for each other..
This is another book that once you start reading it you will not want to stop til you finish it.. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's.
This is such a wonderful read, Rachel went through so much, and Eli had his own personal challenges, they never expected to fall in love while solving multiple cases, but they were destined for each other..
This is another book that once you start reading it you will not want to stop til you finish it.. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's.
July 15, 2022
I’m loving this series and all the characters in the stories! I love this author. I think I found another favorite! I now plan to read all her books.
October 3, 2021
“More Than a Masquerade” is also far more than an ordinary historical romance novel. Author Adele Clee has created this second book in the ‘Ladies of the Order’ in keeping with the high standards all of her books meet … there is mystery and danger, clever dialogue and subtle humor, fast-paced action and slow-burn passion. It’s all so beautifully written that every scene comes brilliantly to life in your imagination as you read.
Rachel has narrowly escaped death more than once and has had to survive in terrifying conditions. Recruited by Lucius Daventry to join one of his organizations as a female enquiry agent, Rachel is told that she must prove her worth to a potential new client. She will have to do so by successfully completing certain mysterious tests that client will have for her. Eli, the client, is a dangerously ominous man with a mysterious past of his own. The only person in the world he does trust at all is Daventry. Even though Eli reluctantly does agree to test and consider Rachel, he has no intention of hiring her for the job. After having been grievously betrayed by a beautiful woman, he’ll never trust another one. He needs a woman with a brilliant mind, an ability to decipher codes, and the bravery to suss out a traitor. What are the odds that the woman who can do all that is also one that sets his blood on fire? Well, the odds don’t matter because he’s definitely not going to hire Rachel. Right? Of course, he does end up hiring her, and they are swept into overlapping circles of deceit, intrigue, mayhem and murder.
The layers and clues in this story are so beautifully constructed that I don’t want to take any chances of revealing too much; you simply have to read this story and experience it for yourself as the author intended. The plot is somewhat complicated but it’s so well-written that it never gets confusing. The secondary characters do a lot to bring the setting and the story to life. They include key people from the lives of both Rachel and Eli, which sheds light on their respective pasts and helps illuminate their present situations. Lucius Daventry is running more than one secret organization, and he seems to have some serious matchmaking skills on the side as well. It seems clear who the next book in the series will be about, and I’m already excited about it!
i had the opportunity to read an ARC of this story and and am sharing my honest opinion.
Rachel has narrowly escaped death more than once and has had to survive in terrifying conditions. Recruited by Lucius Daventry to join one of his organizations as a female enquiry agent, Rachel is told that she must prove her worth to a potential new client. She will have to do so by successfully completing certain mysterious tests that client will have for her. Eli, the client, is a dangerously ominous man with a mysterious past of his own. The only person in the world he does trust at all is Daventry. Even though Eli reluctantly does agree to test and consider Rachel, he has no intention of hiring her for the job. After having been grievously betrayed by a beautiful woman, he’ll never trust another one. He needs a woman with a brilliant mind, an ability to decipher codes, and the bravery to suss out a traitor. What are the odds that the woman who can do all that is also one that sets his blood on fire? Well, the odds don’t matter because he’s definitely not going to hire Rachel. Right? Of course, he does end up hiring her, and they are swept into overlapping circles of deceit, intrigue, mayhem and murder.
The layers and clues in this story are so beautifully constructed that I don’t want to take any chances of revealing too much; you simply have to read this story and experience it for yourself as the author intended. The plot is somewhat complicated but it’s so well-written that it never gets confusing. The secondary characters do a lot to bring the setting and the story to life. They include key people from the lives of both Rachel and Eli, which sheds light on their respective pasts and helps illuminate their present situations. Lucius Daventry is running more than one secret organization, and he seems to have some serious matchmaking skills on the side as well. It seems clear who the next book in the series will be about, and I’m already excited about it!
i had the opportunity to read an ARC of this story and and am sharing my honest opinion.
September 24, 2021
This is another great story by Adele giving us what we love to read. The Ladies of the Order work for Mr. Lucius Daventry. The order helps people who are in trouble without the funds to get legal help.
Rachel Gambit has had a really rough, hard life. She almost died with her parents after being shipwrecked. Then the only relative that would take her in left her sons terrorize her for years.
As she has beaten death twice, she joined The Order to help others hoping to give back something.
Her first assignment starts out very unusual as she has to prove herself by passing tests.
Mr. Eli Hunter also works for Mr. Daventry but for a secret branch called The Order of Themis. Eli can't understand why Lucius would send someone like Rachel to work with him. From the moment he sees her he is stuck by her beauty. Eli doesn't trust women at all, he has suffered a Hugh betrayal in the past that hunts him still. Can both Eli and Rachel put aside they growing attraction to each other and work together ? They will have to solve many cases, mysteries, and secrets to get to the truth before it is too late. This is a fast paced steamy read with lots of emotions and drama.
If you have read other books in The Order you get to revisit The D'Angelo's which was great.
This is a very intriguing story with lots of twist and turns. Many surprises to catch the spy. (I was sure I knew but was wrong !!)
The ending was great, perfect for this couple.
I hope you get a copy and enjoy. The stories can be read as standalone but better if read in order so you learn about all the characters.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely ginning it. I can't wait for book three !!
Rachel Gambit has had a really rough, hard life. She almost died with her parents after being shipwrecked. Then the only relative that would take her in left her sons terrorize her for years.
As she has beaten death twice, she joined The Order to help others hoping to give back something.
Her first assignment starts out very unusual as she has to prove herself by passing tests.
Mr. Eli Hunter also works for Mr. Daventry but for a secret branch called The Order of Themis. Eli can't understand why Lucius would send someone like Rachel to work with him. From the moment he sees her he is stuck by her beauty. Eli doesn't trust women at all, he has suffered a Hugh betrayal in the past that hunts him still. Can both Eli and Rachel put aside they growing attraction to each other and work together ? They will have to solve many cases, mysteries, and secrets to get to the truth before it is too late. This is a fast paced steamy read with lots of emotions and drama.
If you have read other books in The Order you get to revisit The D'Angelo's which was great.
This is a very intriguing story with lots of twist and turns. Many surprises to catch the spy. (I was sure I knew but was wrong !!)
The ending was great, perfect for this couple.
I hope you get a copy and enjoy. The stories can be read as standalone but better if read in order so you learn about all the characters.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely ginning it. I can't wait for book three !!
September 19, 2021
I love this series, but I also love all the books this author writes for her reader's enjoyment. Her books are always well-written, with fleshed-out characters that the reader gets to know very well.
Rachel Gambit has experienced a hard past when she was terrorized by the son's of a lady who took her in when she had no other place to go. In the end the woman snubbed her own sons in her will & left Rachel twenty thousand pounds when Rachel turns twenty-five in a few months. She escaped the brothers and is now waiting for her first assignment as a female agent for The Order.
Eli Hunter is an agent for The Order but in a highly specialized off-shoot call The Order of Themis. Hunter needs a capable female agent to work with him to recover a stolen artifact, some files & to discover who the traitor is within Themis. The female agent must be able to pass the tests he presents to her.
Eli & Rachel work together to solve the twists & turns in this mystery that kept me turning pages to see what they would discover. This was done while chemistry & fireworks went on between them creating quite the steamy romance & love being built between them. I highly recommend this to all romance & history lovers who also like some steam in their romances. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Rachel Gambit has experienced a hard past when she was terrorized by the son's of a lady who took her in when she had no other place to go. In the end the woman snubbed her own sons in her will & left Rachel twenty thousand pounds when Rachel turns twenty-five in a few months. She escaped the brothers and is now waiting for her first assignment as a female agent for The Order.
Eli Hunter is an agent for The Order but in a highly specialized off-shoot call The Order of Themis. Hunter needs a capable female agent to work with him to recover a stolen artifact, some files & to discover who the traitor is within Themis. The female agent must be able to pass the tests he presents to her.
Eli & Rachel work together to solve the twists & turns in this mystery that kept me turning pages to see what they would discover. This was done while chemistry & fireworks went on between them creating quite the steamy romance & love being built between them. I highly recommend this to all romance & history lovers who also like some steam in their romances. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
September 27, 2021
For her, he just may be tempted to take his mask off.
Miss Rachel Gambit needs to past his test so he will agree to hire her. If she passes, this would be her first assignment for The Order. She really needs this because she can not fail. It's too important for her future.
Mr. Eli Hunter's heart turned to stone three years ago, and not even the breathtaking woman Mr. Devantry has sent for Eli's approval. He cannot work with her, she's too tempting. He cannot let her close, ever.
Adele Clee has another winner. More Than a Masquerade is an excellently written romantic page-turner. Rachel and Eli must solve several cases, but along the way they really set my e-reader on fire. Their chemistry is explosive and, yes, they ultimately solve the mysteries for the severe Mr. Devantry.
All in all this is an engrossing read that's fast paced, absorbing and very steamy.
Content 411: In addition to some swearing and one vulgarity, there are a couple of descriptive sexual intimacies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Miss Rachel Gambit needs to past his test so he will agree to hire her. If she passes, this would be her first assignment for The Order. She really needs this because she can not fail. It's too important for her future.
Mr. Eli Hunter's heart turned to stone three years ago, and not even the breathtaking woman Mr. Devantry has sent for Eli's approval. He cannot work with her, she's too tempting. He cannot let her close, ever.
Adele Clee has another winner. More Than a Masquerade is an excellently written romantic page-turner. Rachel and Eli must solve several cases, but along the way they really set my e-reader on fire. Their chemistry is explosive and, yes, they ultimately solve the mysteries for the severe Mr. Devantry.
All in all this is an engrossing read that's fast paced, absorbing and very steamy.
Content 411: In addition to some swearing and one vulgarity, there are a couple of descriptive sexual intimacies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
August 13, 2022
Good Book
An enquiry agent seeking her first case.
After spending weeks eagerly awaiting an assignment, Rachel Gambit is instructed to meet her potential new client at a Vauxhall masquerade. She’s been given a list of instructions: to wear red, to find the mysterious gentleman amongst the crowd, with no clue to his identity. But if, by God’s good grace, she finds the man, she must go through a series of tests before he agrees to hire her.
A man on a mission.
Eli Hunter needs a woman who can act her way onto any Covent Garden stage. He needs a woman with steely determination and a cunning mind. A woman who can help him recover a stolen artefact owned by a secret society. But he encounters a problem. The only enquiry agent available stirs a passion that could soften the hardest heart—a terrifying prospect for a man who’s survived the worst kind of betrayal.
This is an interesting book. I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
An enquiry agent seeking her first case.
After spending weeks eagerly awaiting an assignment, Rachel Gambit is instructed to meet her potential new client at a Vauxhall masquerade. She’s been given a list of instructions: to wear red, to find the mysterious gentleman amongst the crowd, with no clue to his identity. But if, by God’s good grace, she finds the man, she must go through a series of tests before he agrees to hire her.
A man on a mission.
Eli Hunter needs a woman who can act her way onto any Covent Garden stage. He needs a woman with steely determination and a cunning mind. A woman who can help him recover a stolen artefact owned by a secret society. But he encounters a problem. The only enquiry agent available stirs a passion that could soften the hardest heart—a terrifying prospect for a man who’s survived the worst kind of betrayal.
This is an interesting book. I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
October 2, 2021
I Loved It! More Than a Masquerade weaves a story from beginning to end with threads of danger, intrigue, secrets, and mystery. Adele Clee has given readers a book that is Gripping and Suspenseful. Both Rachel Gambit and Eli Hunter find themselves working together for the good of The Order. They both find it is hard to concentrate on the their mission to find the stolen artefact as right from the start sparks beginning to fly and soon turn into sizzling passion. Adele Clee has written a who done it with multiple mysteries that come together perfectly, with a story line that kept me interested right to the end and wanting more.! Her characters come to life as you find yourself drawn into their story, the scenes are so strikingly detailed it paints an incredible backdrop that makes you feel like you are one with the story. Adele's series always leaves you anxiously waiting for the next one in the series.
September 17, 2021
1825 Rachel Gambit is a new Enquiry Agent for The Order, but she needs to undergo some tests before she receives her first assignment. Eli Hunter, also works for The Order but also for the secret organisation, The Order of Themis. He needs an agent to help him recover a stolen artefact and papers, and uncover a traitor. Can they work together to unmask the guilty parties.
Another entertaining and well-written historical mystery and romance in this series, with its likeable characters. Which can easily be read as a standalone story. A good addition to the series though it does contain mature content.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review
Another entertaining and well-written historical mystery and romance in this series, with its likeable characters. Which can easily be read as a standalone story. A good addition to the series though it does contain mature content.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review
September 24, 2021
Seems Daventry cannot resist a bit of matchmaking - and he's rather successful at it.
There is a lot going on in this installment of the series. There is not just the one mystery to reveal the traitor to the Order of the Themis, the characters also get caught up in the usual investigations to save an innocent boy and a maid from injustice.
Lurking in the background of the story are the injuries of the pasts our h and H would like to ignore; Rachel's could still be dangerous for her, while Eli is mistrustful after the personal betrayal he suffered. Rachel and Eli provide each other support to overcome their pasts.
I found the story to be engrossing, so many threads and paths that lead to a satisfying end.
I received a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.
There is a lot going on in this installment of the series. There is not just the one mystery to reveal the traitor to the Order of the Themis, the characters also get caught up in the usual investigations to save an innocent boy and a maid from injustice.
Lurking in the background of the story are the injuries of the pasts our h and H would like to ignore; Rachel's could still be dangerous for her, while Eli is mistrustful after the personal betrayal he suffered. Rachel and Eli provide each other support to overcome their pasts.
I found the story to be engrossing, so many threads and paths that lead to a satisfying end.
I received a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.
September 27, 2021
I am loving Adele Clee’s The Ladies of the Order series. I was able to read an advance copy of More Than A Masquerade, the 2nd book in the series. Before I was done with the first chapter, I found Rachel Gambit & Eli Hunter to be such interesting characters. I couldn’t wait to know more about them. It was easy to guess their chemistry was going to be off the charts.
To say Rachel & Eli work well together is an understatement. They’re both slow to trust due to their past experiences, but soon find themselves relying on each other. No spoilers, but will say there are lots of twists & turns in this interesting “who done it?” that’s also a love story. Already looking forward to the next Lady’s story!
To say Rachel & Eli work well together is an understatement. They’re both slow to trust due to their past experiences, but soon find themselves relying on each other. No spoilers, but will say there are lots of twists & turns in this interesting “who done it?” that’s also a love story. Already looking forward to the next Lady’s story!
October 1, 2021
I am a huge fan of Ms.Clee and her mysteries. Needless to say, when I received an ARC through BookFunnel, I couldn't download it fast enough. I thoroughly enjoyed the love story and the mysteries. Yes, plural. You can always count on Ms. Clee to have more than one mystery in each of her books. And each one will keep you at the edge of your seat. And her heroes are always swoon-worthy. This time it's Mr. Hunter who will make your heart race. Her heroines are tough but also very human. Whenever Rachel was holding her breath I was holding mine. The book is so well written that you totally emerge yourself in the story. It can be read as a stand-alone but I encourage everybody to read the whole series. It's well worth it.
October 6, 2021
A story within a story
Rachel's first case is a masquerade where she meets Eli Hunter a very complex who appears moved by little! Rachel is determined to best him and Eli seems to fear his co!d might actually thaw!
A series of events include Rachel being an temporary chairman of a secret order, secrets leaked and files stolen! They both wrestle headache and danger as they confront their past!
Rachel confrontation almost ends her life! Eli forgives his brother and realizes he has a lucky escape! This one is a wild ride these two are perfect together and for one another! Heat level and Chemistry is smoldering. The tact there is actual chemistry used in solving 1 case also keeps it unpredictable!! Best one yet! This series is 🔥!
Rachel's first case is a masquerade where she meets Eli Hunter a very complex who appears moved by little! Rachel is determined to best him and Eli seems to fear his co!d might actually thaw!
A series of events include Rachel being an temporary chairman of a secret order, secrets leaked and files stolen! They both wrestle headache and danger as they confront their past!
Rachel confrontation almost ends her life! Eli forgives his brother and realizes he has a lucky escape! This one is a wild ride these two are perfect together and for one another! Heat level and Chemistry is smoldering. The tact there is actual chemistry used in solving 1 case also keeps it unpredictable!! Best one yet! This series is 🔥!
January 5, 2022
LOVED HUNTER - GREAT STORY AND SERIES SO FAR !
Rachel was running from her two relatives who were out to harm her for the inheritance their mother had left her, she became a Lady of the Order.
Hunter was part of the group of men who a helped prove guilt or innocent of people imprisoned. He needed a Lady to help find out the truth. This was Rachel's first mission she was told she would be given some tests to see if she was capable.
Hunter was the one testing her capability he did not particularly like women he had been betrayed by his fiancee on their wedding day so was not happy to have a women as a partner.
I LOVED THIS THE CHARACTERS WERE GREAT ALL OF THEM BUT I ADMIT A BIT OF A CRUSH ON HUNTER .
Rachel was running from her two relatives who were out to harm her for the inheritance their mother had left her, she became a Lady of the Order.
Hunter was part of the group of men who a helped prove guilt or innocent of people imprisoned. He needed a Lady to help find out the truth. This was Rachel's first mission she was told she would be given some tests to see if she was capable.
Hunter was the one testing her capability he did not particularly like women he had been betrayed by his fiancee on their wedding day so was not happy to have a women as a partner.
I LOVED THIS THE CHARACTERS WERE GREAT ALL OF THEM BUT I ADMIT A BIT OF A CRUSH ON HUNTER .
December 5, 2021
Rachel has finally been given her first case with the Order, as long as she can pass the mysterious client’s test. Eli is tempted to fail Rachel because of his attraction to her, but he does need her help to uncover a traitor.
I enjoyed this book. I did feel that the relationship progressed a little too quickly. Eli begins as this aloof mysterious man who is determined to be alone, but he drops it almost immediately and instantly falls in love with Rachel. It was too fast an about-turn, rather than a gradual progression, which would have been more believable. But, other than that, it was a really good book, and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
I enjoyed this book. I did feel that the relationship progressed a little too quickly. Eli begins as this aloof mysterious man who is determined to be alone, but he drops it almost immediately and instantly falls in love with Rachel. It was too fast an about-turn, rather than a gradual progression, which would have been more believable. But, other than that, it was a really good book, and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
August 5, 2022
Is It Me?
Let me just say I love that Hunter and Rachel were forthcoming with their feelings towards each other. I usually don’t find this level of open communication so soon in a book. It was refreshing to read. Both characters were so sure of their emotions, and very articulate about how they felt.
Here comes the problem with the book:
I read the previous book, and have the same problem with this one. The mystery aspect is confusing! It is so hard to keep up with all the names and all the moving pieces. And everything just solved itself so quickly towards the end it felt rushed.
Let me just say I love that Hunter and Rachel were forthcoming with their feelings towards each other. I usually don’t find this level of open communication so soon in a book. It was refreshing to read. Both characters were so sure of their emotions, and very articulate about how they felt.
Here comes the problem with the book:
I read the previous book, and have the same problem with this one. The mystery aspect is confusing! It is so hard to keep up with all the names and all the moving pieces. And everything just solved itself so quickly towards the end it felt rushed.
November 23, 2022
Rachel Gambit is a new private investigator for Ladies of the Order, waiting to interview for her first case. Eli Hunter is seeking an investigator to help him locate a missing artifact and to discover a traitor in his organization. He has no intention of hiring a woman. But she passes all his “tests” and begins to work with him. During their meetings they develop feelings for one another. It’s a great mixture of romance, healing, and mystery. The characters are interesting and the story is well written.
I enjoyed the Audible narrator a lot. Her male voices are very good and the hero’s voice is strong and sensual.
I enjoyed the Audible narrator a lot. Her male voices are very good and the hero’s voice is strong and sensual.
September 25, 2021
Adele has done it again. I cannot tell you how much I love this story. We have a grumpy hero, a heroine who knows her stuff and not one, not two but three mysteries. Yes, you heard me, three mysteries. I love a grumpy hero and Eli is definitely not a person you want to meet in a dark alley. Eli and Rachel’s flirting around is so delish. As usual, Adele tries red herrings to throw us off the real culprit(s) and keeps you guessing. I feel that Adele is an author who should be more in the limelight as she is a fantastic writer.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
September 28, 2021
This is the 2nd book in the series Ladies of Order, and it was just as good as the first. You do not have to read previous book, but you should. This is about Rachel who is an Enquiry Agent who wants to work with Eli. He really did not want to work with her, so he put her through some test. There are a few mysteries to solve, which keeps this book interesting and moving. This book has Mystery, Love, Intrigue and is Thrilling. A great book and a great writer.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
October 31, 2021
I enjoyed this romance of sorts, along with a mystery to figure out. I received this book for free and I voluntarily chose to review this story. I've given it a 4.5* rating . This is not for the under 18 readers because of the sexual content. These two investigative agents were called in to find out who the thief is of a precious item. There were a lot of twists and turns, and undercovering other things that came to light. Lots to keep you turning the pages. I was surprised at how things turned out.
January 15, 2022
I love Adele Clee, she always writes such good romances. Eli and Rachel were perfect for each other. I love that Rachel was strong with out being over the top, she was very likable. Eli, he was perfect, exactly the kind of man I love to see in a romance. And with Adele Clee books you always get a good mystery. The series is a perfect addition to the Gentlemen of the Order series, which is a favorite historical romance series of mine. A great read.
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