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Made For Mischief
All she really wanted was one naughty night before returning to her life as a sheltered country spinster! Crawling beneath a bed in London's most notorious brothel was beyond the pale, even for known eccentric Arabella Spencer. Little did she imagine that lust, desire, and yes, love was just within her grasp. When Grayson St. James, Lord Mercer, newly returned from fighting Napoleon, dragged a squirming, dusty bluestocking from beneath his bed, he was...well..aghast! She wanted adventure, did she? She wanted to learn about sex, did she? He was just the man to teach her! As a vow of vengeance and a case of mistaken identity unite Grayson and Arabella in a common goal, the dour Lord Mercer finds himself laughing for the first time in longer than he can recall but will an unknown threat bring them together or tear their world apart?
302 pages, Paperback
First published September 16, 2008
About the author
Regina Carlysle
56 books86 followersRegina Carlysle is an award winning, multi-published author. She likes writing that is hot, edgy, and often humorous, and puts this trademark stamp on all of her stories. Regina lives in west Texas with her husband of 25 years and counting and is a doting, fawning, and over-indulgent mother to her two kids. When she's not penning steamy erotic tales or hot contemporary stories, she's indulging in long chats with friends who help her stay sane and keep her laughing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
August 1, 2015
The story was pretty good, until they got married. That is about around 60%.
By 60% we have established that she is the one and only for him and this must be special. He cannot lose her because she is so very precious.
And I completely lost my will to continue reading. It does not hold any more intrgue for me. I know the ending anyways. So why bother with it if the book has reached the happliy ever after at 60%? The rest will just be some evil people try to take the heroine away and the hero fights to get her back. The story will be filled with how the heroine bravely fights off the villain and how gallantly the hero tries to find her. I can see why some readers might like that. I am not one of them.
By 60% we have established that she is the one and only for him and this must be special. He cannot lose her because she is so very precious.
And I completely lost my will to continue reading. It does not hold any more intrgue for me. I know the ending anyways. So why bother with it if the book has reached the happliy ever after at 60%? The rest will just be some evil people try to take the heroine away and the hero fights to get her back. The story will be filled with how the heroine bravely fights off the villain and how gallantly the hero tries to find her. I can see why some readers might like that. I am not one of them.
January 12, 2016
Saw this one in my updated feed and thought that I would give it a go seeing as it's been a while since I've read a Historical Romance. I want to give this book a higher rating than I have, sadly while the beginning of the book is phenomenal I found the end to be some what lacking. Maybe it was because I read all the reviews praising the surprise twist ending?
The H&h are masterfully written, and I adored reading about how they came together. It just worked! Grayson is a wonderfully written strong man with plenty of flaws but he hides a heart of gold under his prickly exterior. Arabella is a breath of fresh air as far as leading females go, while fully independent she is not spoiled or blinded to how the world really works. She is not one given to outrageous tantrums and while she speaks her mind she is never outright rude while doing so, over all in my opinion she is a perfect balance of gumption and sensibility. Also, no one can deny that Arabella's two Aunts not only make the book enjoyable but they add a extra dimension and ne sais pa and humor to the whole story over all. The beginnings of the mystery in the story was also very well done! While I did guess a good deal of what was/had happened in respects to Grayson's brother Andrew there were plenty of small tips and tidbits to keep the gears in my head turning as I tried to work out the mystery set before me.
My whole problem with this story stems from the ending 'surprise'. By the end I had guessed about ninety percent of what and who played a role in Andrews demise, and while the mastermind behind the whole fiasco was a surprise to be sure. It just didn't fit or jive with the story for me. I really do mean that it was a surprise to find out who was behind the attempts on Grayson and Arabella's lives, a left field curve ball if you would. I just found that when all was said and done I was left thinking, '...that's it? Wait, what?'.
Is this book one worth reading? Yes for the first 60% to be sure! For the ending, ..., well that's something that only you can decide. I did enjoy the book until the end but I personally felt that the ending should have been slightly different or have had another twist added into Andrews death.
3.5 Stars over all.
The H&h are masterfully written, and I adored reading about how they came together. It just worked! Grayson is a wonderfully written strong man with plenty of flaws but he hides a heart of gold under his prickly exterior. Arabella is a breath of fresh air as far as leading females go, while fully independent she is not spoiled or blinded to how the world really works. She is not one given to outrageous tantrums and while she speaks her mind she is never outright rude while doing so, over all in my opinion she is a perfect balance of gumption and sensibility. Also, no one can deny that Arabella's two Aunts not only make the book enjoyable but they add a extra dimension and ne sais pa and humor to the whole story over all. The beginnings of the mystery in the story was also very well done! While I did guess a good deal of what was/had happened in respects to Grayson's brother Andrew there were plenty of small tips and tidbits to keep the gears in my head turning as I tried to work out the mystery set before me.
My whole problem with this story stems from the ending 'surprise'. By the end I had guessed about ninety percent of what and who played a role in Andrews demise, and while the mastermind behind the whole fiasco was a surprise to be sure. It just didn't fit or jive with the story for me. I really do mean that it was a surprise to find out who was behind the attempts on Grayson and Arabella's lives, a left field curve ball if you would. I just found that when all was said and done I was left thinking, '...that's it? Wait, what?'.
Is this book one worth reading? Yes for the first 60% to be sure! For the ending, ..., well that's something that only you can decide. I did enjoy the book until the end but I personally felt that the ending should have been slightly different or have had another twist added into Andrews death.
3.5 Stars over all.
September 15, 2015
Lovely
This was indeed the most heartwarming story I have ever read. It was one of those stories I was sad to see end.
This was indeed the most heartwarming story I have ever read. It was one of those stories I was sad to see end.
August 18, 2018
Arabella's curiosity leads her life in a new direction. "How thrilling!"
Arabella has a secret. One that leads her to the den of iniquity where Grayson arrives to ease his mind and body upon leaving Wellington to deal with the ' little Corsican' himself.
Eager to find reasons behind the death of his brother, Grayson returns to take up his seat as Earl.
Arabella's interruption of his pleasures leads to a change in his view of women, his brother and his own life.
She is a bundle of light and surprises which he is greatly in need of and thankfully has the intelligence to recognise. But does she see it too? Grayson discovers many surprises about her and a few things they have in common as well as secrets she has been burdened with for far too long. Secrets which brings danger to both of them.
Arabella has a secret. One that leads her to the den of iniquity where Grayson arrives to ease his mind and body upon leaving Wellington to deal with the ' little Corsican' himself.
Eager to find reasons behind the death of his brother, Grayson returns to take up his seat as Earl.
Arabella's interruption of his pleasures leads to a change in his view of women, his brother and his own life.
She is a bundle of light and surprises which he is greatly in need of and thankfully has the intelligence to recognise. But does she see it too? Grayson discovers many surprises about her and a few things they have in common as well as secrets she has been burdened with for far too long. Secrets which brings danger to both of them.
January 22, 2021
More than just romance
This story was a fun one to read. It started out featuring a recluse of a woman who secretly was an accomplished mystery writer. Before long, we are clued in she has her own mystery to solve. Turn the page, she thought to do investigating passion between a man and woman under the bed in an inn for one of her books. But she gets caught! The most handsome man decides to have some fun and educate her a small bit. In the morning, she disappears from his bed thinking she will never see him again. So now there is her mystery and this handsome guy. I hope you have many questions floating in your head at this point because I did. Oh, did I forget to mention all the hot scenes?
This story was a fun one to read. It started out featuring a recluse of a woman who secretly was an accomplished mystery writer. Before long, we are clued in she has her own mystery to solve. Turn the page, she thought to do investigating passion between a man and woman under the bed in an inn for one of her books. But she gets caught! The most handsome man decides to have some fun and educate her a small bit. In the morning, she disappears from his bed thinking she will never see him again. So now there is her mystery and this handsome guy. I hope you have many questions floating in your head at this point because I did. Oh, did I forget to mention all the hot scenes?
September 19, 2020
OK book if you don't think too much about it. More of a 2.5 star review. The hero was kind of a jerk for much of the book. The heroine went missing and everyone worried and searched for her. They were happy for her return. Strange thing was that this was actually an attempted murder and no one seemed really invested in finding out who did it, or taking precautions against it happening again (other than one mention of armed footman during a shopping trip).
The steamy scenes were OK, but didn't come across as intimate or erotic. Most felt redundant and used to fill pages.
The steamy scenes were OK, but didn't come across as intimate or erotic. Most felt redundant and used to fill pages.
January 3, 2021
The beginning of this book is the best part although they are still cute together when married but the book just loses some of the intrigue as you can sort of figure out everything that will happen. In addition, there is little actual conflict that makes me want to keep reading. There is plenty of spice and romance in this book but I just didn't find the plot besides the beginning that interesting. The characters themselves were fun and only annoying every once in a while but I appreciated that the lack of communication trope wasn't really used. Not bad but not great 3/5 stars.
November 19, 2020
Romantic mischief indeed
Love, deceit, trust, loyalty, envy, 💪 all in this Romance plot. Can Annabelle earn Grayson trust & 💘. Realize that not all women dislike their family. what is the secret that Grayson 's Brother Andrew !eel. That made him kill himself? Why has that secret come to haunt Lord Mercer and Duchess Bella? To cause them danger and murder attempts? It's got suspense, sex, love and lust. Most important fierce respect for each other. Read the novel!
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Love, deceit, trust, loyalty, envy, 💪 all in this Romance plot. Can Annabelle earn Grayson trust & 💘. Realize that not all women dislike their family. what is the secret that Grayson 's Brother Andrew !eel. That made him kill himself? Why has that secret come to haunt Lord Mercer and Duchess Bella? To cause them danger and murder attempts? It's got suspense, sex, love and lust. Most important fierce respect for each other. Read the novel!
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September 5, 2019
A truly enjoyable book to add to keeper shelf
This was a wonderful book, with only one flaw, the hero was too old. 35, really? He needed to be 28, 29 or 30 at the oldest!! I will read the book again for the story was so engaging, I am sure I missed some things. There was a some of history, a little comedy and mystery and a lot of love!
This was a wonderful book, with only one flaw, the hero was too old. 35, really? He needed to be 28, 29 or 30 at the oldest!! I will read the book again for the story was so engaging, I am sure I missed some things. There was a some of history, a little comedy and mystery and a lot of love!
June 23, 2017
Fear The Mouse!
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and funny. Lots of steamy love scenes, and an arrogant alpha male who learns to appreciate the quiet bravery of a "mouse." I would definitely recommend this book, and will look for other titles by this author.
I really enjoyed this book. It was well written and funny. Lots of steamy love scenes, and an arrogant alpha male who learns to appreciate the quiet bravery of a "mouse." I would definitely recommend this book, and will look for other titles by this author.
October 29, 2018
Love this book!!
I loved reading this book! Loved the storyline and the characters. Grayson is such an exceptional written character to me not to mention HOT!! This one is definitely a reread.
I loved reading this book! Loved the storyline and the characters. Grayson is such an exceptional written character to me not to mention HOT!! This one is definitely a reread.
February 4, 2022
Absolute Favorite
5 stars is not enough. I had read this book many times and I love it. Love the H/h both. The book has a great plot, some mystery and lots of steamy romance. You can’t go wrong reading this story.
5 stars is not enough. I had read this book many times and I love it. Love the H/h both. The book has a great plot, some mystery and lots of steamy romance. You can’t go wrong reading this story.
October 23, 2019
I'm normally not one for these so- called bodice rippers
But Regina Carlysle is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. She seems to excel at every genre she attempts. Kudos!
But Regina Carlysle is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. She seems to excel at every genre she attempts. Kudos!
March 31, 2021
A good read for a rainy afternoon
A fun way to spend an afternoon with a cup of tea and a piece of strawberry rhubarb pie. I certainly would read another book from this author.
A fun way to spend an afternoon with a cup of tea and a piece of strawberry rhubarb pie. I certainly would read another book from this author.
March 10, 2017
This was a wonderful story
I enjoy this book very much you have been bless with a wonderful gift and I wish you continue success. My first book by you but not my last. Please buy this book you will not be disappointed. Off to your library self to see what other goodies you have. DH from New York City
I enjoy this book very much you have been bless with a wonderful gift and I wish you continue success. My first book by you but not my last. Please buy this book you will not be disappointed. Off to your library self to see what other goodies you have. DH from New York City
January 2, 2009
Made for Mischief is a totally fun, passionate Regency tale about a sheltered country miss named Arabella Spencer who's looking for a little adventure--and of course, education and enlightenment. While Arabella secretly writes mystery novels under a "masculine" pen name, she desperately wants to learn about one mystery that has escaped her all her life (due mostly to her spinsterhood)... the concept of sexual desire.
And what better way to be educated on such a concept than to sneak into an opulent brothel?
While that might seem like a very improper act for a supposedly proper Regency miss--an act that could very well ruin her reputation, it's a sacrifice Arabella is willing to make in her quest for knowledge. Anyway, who's going to know? All she has to do is get in, do her research, and leave. No harm, no foul, right?
Grayson St. James, Lord Mercer, has just returned from fighting in the Napoleonic wars and wishes for nothing more than peace--and of course, to solve the mystery surrounding his brother's suicide. But first, Grayson seeks to acquire some rest from his travels, which brings him to "The Constantine", a brothel he'd spent many a night in during his youth.
So imagine his surprise when he finds a strange woman hiding beneath his bed?
Regina Carlysle is a fabulous story teller! With engaging characters that you can't help but fall in love with (this includes her secondary characters--I simply adored Arabella's aunts) and a mystery to be solved, Made for Mischief is a delicious book that will satisfy the cravings of any Regency romance fan.
And what better way to be educated on such a concept than to sneak into an opulent brothel?
While that might seem like a very improper act for a supposedly proper Regency miss--an act that could very well ruin her reputation, it's a sacrifice Arabella is willing to make in her quest for knowledge. Anyway, who's going to know? All she has to do is get in, do her research, and leave. No harm, no foul, right?
Grayson St. James, Lord Mercer, has just returned from fighting in the Napoleonic wars and wishes for nothing more than peace--and of course, to solve the mystery surrounding his brother's suicide. But first, Grayson seeks to acquire some rest from his travels, which brings him to "The Constantine", a brothel he'd spent many a night in during his youth.
So imagine his surprise when he finds a strange woman hiding beneath his bed?
Regina Carlysle is a fabulous story teller! With engaging characters that you can't help but fall in love with (this includes her secondary characters--I simply adored Arabella's aunts) and a mystery to be solved, Made for Mischief is a delicious book that will satisfy the cravings of any Regency romance fan.
June 11, 2015
Steamy but lovely romance
Loved,loved this book. I like a romance novel that brings two people together that normally would not suit together. And in this romance the hero and heroine discovered wonderful things not only about each other but themselves that was truly lovely and enlightening. It also has several detailed love making encounters between the hero and heroine which I like. A good romance should have true love, romance and sizzle and this one has all three. For these reasons this is one of the best romance novels I have read so far; and I have read many! I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking to read a romance novel that is well worth your time and whatever you spend on it. Would give it more stars if possible. Enjoy!
Loved,loved this book. I like a romance novel that brings two people together that normally would not suit together. And in this romance the hero and heroine discovered wonderful things not only about each other but themselves that was truly lovely and enlightening. It also has several detailed love making encounters between the hero and heroine which I like. A good romance should have true love, romance and sizzle and this one has all three. For these reasons this is one of the best romance novels I have read so far; and I have read many! I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking to read a romance novel that is well worth your time and whatever you spend on it. Would give it more stars if possible. Enjoy!
April 18, 2015
Curiosity they name is woman!
It was curiosity that led to Arabella invasion of the bedroom of Grayson St. James in a brothel to learn of sexual relationship between sexes. To her chagrin, she was caught and retained by Grayson to teach this intelligent but naive young lady a lesson, however she escapes before the lesson is complete! Later, after searching throughout London, he returns home to finds that Arabella was his dead brother's ex-fiance. In the process of trying to learn all the facts surrounding his brother's death they fall in love, but not without some difficulty!
It was curiosity that led to Arabella invasion of the bedroom of Grayson St. James in a brothel to learn of sexual relationship between sexes. To her chagrin, she was caught and retained by Grayson to teach this intelligent but naive young lady a lesson, however she escapes before the lesson is complete! Later, after searching throughout London, he returns home to finds that Arabella was his dead brother's ex-fiance. In the process of trying to learn all the facts surrounding his brother's death they fall in love, but not without some difficulty!
June 22, 2016
This book would have received four stars if it weren't for the beginning. I didn't read many reviews before starting this book, which I quickly found to be a mistake. I was not expecting a scene involving sex with another woman and even though it was before the H and h got together, I hate it when those scenes are included in books. It didn't seem necessary for the development of the story considering it was never brought up again. It really wasn't needed or expected, the beginning could have played out the same exact way if she was discovered before the other woman showed up.
July 11, 2015
Mischief indeed
I must admit to not being pleased at how the story began. A merry romp is fine, but tinged with aggression and arrogance I found off putting. I trudged on and finally I found the plot line. That I enjoyed. I was happy about being unsure as to who the villain was till the end. The aunts were a very refreshing and enjoyable addition to the story. I felt the book was a 3-⭐️ but I gave it 4 because of the aunts!
I must admit to not being pleased at how the story began. A merry romp is fine, but tinged with aggression and arrogance I found off putting. I trudged on and finally I found the plot line. That I enjoyed. I was happy about being unsure as to who the villain was till the end. The aunts were a very refreshing and enjoyable addition to the story. I felt the book was a 3-⭐️ but I gave it 4 because of the aunts!
May 2, 2015
Delightful
While it took me a few chapters to really get into this book, Once I understood the main characters I found it just got better and better. I'm supposed to be hosting a party tonight but I find I simply cannot do another thing until I finish this sexy, exciting book! My guests will just have to wait...
While it took me a few chapters to really get into this book, Once I understood the main characters I found it just got better and better. I'm supposed to be hosting a party tonight but I find I simply cannot do another thing until I finish this sexy, exciting book! My guests will just have to wait...
May 10, 2015
Mischief,mayhem and murder.Oh my
What a nice different twist to a Historical Romance.Starts off very naughty.A cat chasing mouse,only to catch her and fall in love.Uncovering a murder mystery,who could it be?A clue was presented b u t only talked about once in the story revealing a couple of possible culprits.Fun,romantic mystery.Would recommend reading.
What a nice different twist to a Historical Romance.Starts off very naughty.A cat chasing mouse,only to catch her and fall in love.Uncovering a murder mystery,who could it be?A clue was presented b u t only talked about once in the story revealing a couple of possible culprits.Fun,romantic mystery.Would recommend reading.
May 28, 2015
Fantastic Read I loved it from beginning to end
Regina Carlyle is a wonderful storyteller. I think this is my first book by her. I noticed a few typos and posted to my Goodreads in case someone keeps track of that sorta thing. If you like history, romance, sex, and have an open mind I encourage you to read it. You won't be sorry you did.
It is LOL funny.
Regina Carlyle is a wonderful storyteller. I think this is my first book by her. I noticed a few typos and posted to my Goodreads in case someone keeps track of that sorta thing. If you like history, romance, sex, and have an open mind I encourage you to read it. You won't be sorry you did.
It is LOL funny.
July 7, 2015
Great book!!!
I do not give 5 star reviews that often but, this book deserves especially it!! The story was captivating from the first page until the last. The characters were strong and smart but we're also humorous. The only thing that could possibly make this story any better might bean epilogue. I certainly will be reading more from this author.
I do not give 5 star reviews that often but, this book deserves especially it!! The story was captivating from the first page until the last. The characters were strong and smart but we're also humorous. The only thing that could possibly make this story any better might bean epilogue. I certainly will be reading more from this author.
May 8, 2015
Sexy with an intriguing story line
Lots of sensual scenes and lusty lovemaking with a who done it thrown in for good measure. I thought I figured it out several times and flip flopped between suspects. Enjoyed it from start to finish!
Lots of sensual scenes and lusty lovemaking with a who done it thrown in for good measure. I thought I figured it out several times and flip flopped between suspects. Enjoyed it from start to finish!
July 13, 2015
I tried and tried for days to read this, but every couple pages I'd think- wow Grayson's a douche. followed by Arabella's ridiculous. And the drunk fun aunts did not charm me. I'm tired of the negativity I felt forcing this read, so I'm done.
July 12, 2015
Great romantic story
Held my attention with all the twist n turns. Loved the way it turned out. Some of the
Loved it. The way it was seeming at first totally turned out Nina different way than I thought, live books to totally be different than I expect
Held my attention with all the twist n turns. Loved the way it turned out. Some of the
Loved it. The way it was seeming at first totally turned out Nina different way than I thought, live books to totally be different than I expect
September 9, 2015
Fun, Intriguing and Well-written!
This was my first Regina Carlysle book and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The characters were vivid and the mystery was intriguing. I would certainly recommend.
This was my first Regina Carlysle book and I thoroughly enjoyed it! The characters were vivid and the mystery was intriguing. I would certainly recommend.
October 16, 2015
Good Read
Arabella is quite the lady. She has more nerve than I could come up with. Funny, caring and loving. The aunts have a character all their own. Couldn't put this book down.
Arabella is quite the lady. She has more nerve than I could come up with. Funny, caring and loving. The aunts have a character all their own. Couldn't put this book down.
October 28, 2015
Slow going
The beginning dragged on too long and was slightly awkward. Then the ending was rushed, almost like "oops forgot to tie up that mystery part, better tag it on here at the end (in less than 10 pages)"
The beginning dragged on too long and was slightly awkward. Then the ending was rushed, almost like "oops forgot to tie up that mystery part, better tag it on here at the end (in less than 10 pages)"
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews