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Scandal Sheet Survivors #2
Not so Wicked
Visiting the devil in the dead of night was not a good idea. But if Miss Mina Stanford hoped to survive to see her next birthday, she must persuade the dangerous Devon Masters not to fight a duel with her brother. Of course, her task would have been much easier had she not been mistaken for a Cyprian and ushered up to his bedchamber.
But that fated meeting changes her life in ways she could never have imagined. For when Mr Masters is arrested for her brother’s murder, Mina is the only person able to prove his innocence.
Should a lady do what is right even if it leads to ruin?
Will Mr Masters prove he is not so wicked after all?
But that fated meeting changes her life in ways she could never have imagined. For when Mr Masters is arrested for her brother’s murder, Mina is the only person able to prove his innocence.
Should a lady do what is right even if it leads to ruin?
Will Mr Masters prove he is not so wicked after all?
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2022
207 people are currently reading
172 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 62 reviews
April 24, 2023
Yes, suspension of disbelief was immediately needed for the premise of the book. Then for most of the rest of the it. Amazing how the couple not only had a marriage of convivence but managed to fall in love in a week with AMAZING sex. I really enjoyed the first half of the book....but the second half was so obvious I could have skipped reading it and told you who the bad guy was and everything about how it ends.
April 8, 2024
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Curvy heroine.👍
Some parts of the beginning of the story and some parts of the mystery.
Interesting side character.
➖ What I disliked:
Plot-holes and inconsistencies.
(Some important moments and info felt like they were missing and also some contradicting info about things etc.)
The mystery part of the plot took over too much of the romance part.
(Too much time is spent on the mystery and not enough focus or time is spent on the romance/romantic build-up and chemistry … so it makes the romance/chemistry kind of unbalanced and lacking.)
The ending was a little OTT.
Lacking character development.
Rushed.
(The plot more or less takes places within 1 week… and the main characters managed to fall in love, get married and be amateur detectives and so much more within this 1 week.)
Jumbled.
Formulaic.
A friend of the heroine (Miss Ware) is mentioned and brought up way too much.
The lack of confidence from the heroine. (about her body and looks)
The heroine was too insecure and self-conscious about her body/looks. (self-deprecating, internalized body-shaming etc.)
The way the heroine is written and described/portrayed in 60-70% of the story is jarring and negative.
The heroine is written in such a over the top and negative way so it was difficult to finish the story/book.
Not only is the heroine curvy and written in the very stereotypical way many curvy heroines are written. (insecure and self-conscious about her body. (self-deprecating, internalized body-shaming etc.)
But add to that the heroine is also written to be plain and dull but also “unattractive”… because like it is mentioned in the book… the heroines eyes are too large… her nose is too long… her mouth too wide etc. etc.
The author wrote this heroine as if she was the most pathetic/weird looking woman to ever walk around London.
The only thing you felt for the heroine was pity… because of how she was written and described/portrayed.
The mystery was in some places almost a little reminiscent of a Scooby-Doo mystery…
Not very mysterious and the main characters were somewhat ungraceful in how they went about solving the mystery… they were bumbling around and being too obvious in what they were doing and stuff like that.
The heroines personality was a little inconsistent/contradictory and/or changed a little too quickly.
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Curvy heroine.👍
Some parts of the beginning of the story and some parts of the mystery.
Interesting side character.
➖ What I disliked:
Plot-holes and inconsistencies.
(Some important moments and info felt like they were missing and also some contradicting info about things etc.)
The mystery part of the plot took over too much of the romance part.
(Too much time is spent on the mystery and not enough focus or time is spent on the romance/romantic build-up and chemistry … so it makes the romance/chemistry kind of unbalanced and lacking.)
The ending was a little OTT.
Lacking character development.
Rushed.
(The plot more or less takes places within 1 week… and the main characters managed to fall in love, get married and be amateur detectives and so much more within this 1 week.)
Jumbled.
Formulaic.
A friend of the heroine (Miss Ware) is mentioned and brought up way too much.
The lack of confidence from the heroine. (about her body and looks)
The heroine was too insecure and self-conscious about her body/looks. (self-deprecating, internalized body-shaming etc.)
The way the heroine is written and described/portrayed in 60-70% of the story is jarring and negative.
The heroine is written in such a over the top and negative way so it was difficult to finish the story/book.
Not only is the heroine curvy and written in the very stereotypical way many curvy heroines are written. (insecure and self-conscious about her body. (self-deprecating, internalized body-shaming etc.)
But add to that the heroine is also written to be plain and dull but also “unattractive”… because like it is mentioned in the book… the heroines eyes are too large… her nose is too long… her mouth too wide etc. etc.
The author wrote this heroine as if she was the most pathetic/weird looking woman to ever walk around London.
The only thing you felt for the heroine was pity… because of how she was written and described/portrayed.
The mystery was in some places almost a little reminiscent of a Scooby-Doo mystery…
Not very mysterious and the main characters were somewhat ungraceful in how they went about solving the mystery… they were bumbling around and being too obvious in what they were doing and stuff like that.
The heroines personality was a little inconsistent/contradictory and/or changed a little too quickly.
December 13, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Sneaking away to visit a handsome reprobate in the middle of the night is never a good plan.
But sometimes it works for the better.
Devon is a card sharp who is the best in the game, but that means everyone owes him money, you’d think that was a good thing.
It is until he finds himself on murder charges for one of the men who owes him thousands.
His only chance of freedom is telling them he spent the night with the victims sister Mina.
Will he?
There’s so much content in this book, twist, turns and plots. It’s brilliantly written with breathtaking detail and visuals.
Adele writes some cracking books, this is definitely one of them.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post a review
💋💋
Sneaking away to visit a handsome reprobate in the middle of the night is never a good plan.
But sometimes it works for the better.
Devon is a card sharp who is the best in the game, but that means everyone owes him money, you’d think that was a good thing.
It is until he finds himself on murder charges for one of the men who owes him thousands.
His only chance of freedom is telling them he spent the night with the victims sister Mina.
Will he?
There’s so much content in this book, twist, turns and plots. It’s brilliantly written with breathtaking detail and visuals.
Adele writes some cracking books, this is definitely one of them.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post a review
December 8, 2022
As always with Adele's books I can't help but devour them.
A story with not only marriage of convenience but lies and betrayal from someone they both least expected.
A marriage of convenience that started out as a way to prove his innocence and to find the person who killed her brother. Quickly turns into a marriage of bringing out the best in each other and finding out that fate lead them to each other.
On a side note I loved seeing prior characters from other series in this story.
I look forward to the next story in this series.
I received this a gift from the author in exchange for an review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's.
A story with not only marriage of convenience but lies and betrayal from someone they both least expected.
A marriage of convenience that started out as a way to prove his innocence and to find the person who killed her brother. Quickly turns into a marriage of bringing out the best in each other and finding out that fate lead them to each other.
On a side note I loved seeing prior characters from other series in this story.
I look forward to the next story in this series.
I received this a gift from the author in exchange for an review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's.
December 22, 2022
Not so Wicked
Scandal Sheet Survivors book 2
by Adele Clee
WOW!!! This was amazing Adele Clee definitely did not disappoint with this one, the chemistry between Mina and Devon is outstanding it just burns of the pages.
Mina’s life has been one disappointment after another, her brother is a scoundrel who cares for no one but himself and his addiction to gambling. Even though Mina tries to keep her head high it’s not easy especially since “the Scandal Sheet” published the lies that were told by Wenham.
Unfortunately for Mina things are about to get even worse, she’s made a deal with the devil and he’s not very forgiving, but his kisses definitely are worth getting burned. When her brother turns up murdered and Devon is accused, Mina must expose herself to scandal but this time she’s dancing with the devil himself.
This was a gripping story full of unpredictable twists and turns. There’s a murder to solve with plenty of interesting characters, a hero who found the woman that made him just a little bit less of the devil he was.
I highly recommend this, Adele Clee has written a sensual story with characters that pull you in and keep you turning the pages.
I received a complimentary copy from the author, this is my honest opinion.
Scandal Sheet Survivors book 2
by Adele Clee
WOW!!! This was amazing Adele Clee definitely did not disappoint with this one, the chemistry between Mina and Devon is outstanding it just burns of the pages.
Mina’s life has been one disappointment after another, her brother is a scoundrel who cares for no one but himself and his addiction to gambling. Even though Mina tries to keep her head high it’s not easy especially since “the Scandal Sheet” published the lies that were told by Wenham.
Unfortunately for Mina things are about to get even worse, she’s made a deal with the devil and he’s not very forgiving, but his kisses definitely are worth getting burned. When her brother turns up murdered and Devon is accused, Mina must expose herself to scandal but this time she’s dancing with the devil himself.
This was a gripping story full of unpredictable twists and turns. There’s a murder to solve with plenty of interesting characters, a hero who found the woman that made him just a little bit less of the devil he was.
I highly recommend this, Adele Clee has written a sensual story with characters that pull you in and keep you turning the pages.
I received a complimentary copy from the author, this is my honest opinion.
December 20, 2022
"You're right. You're not wicked, Mr. Masters. You're downright devilish."
4.25 stars!
I've really come to love the premise of this new series by Adele! Each heroine so far has had their fortune told of how they will meet the man they will marry, and Mina's was probably the most scandalous of the group: You will see your husband's buttock before seeing his face. And indeed, after Mina is ushered into Devon's guest room and mistaken for his paramour, she gets a fine view of his physique before meeting his face. It is an unforgettable first meeting that completely changes the course of both Mina and Devon's lives for the better as they work to uncover who murdered Mina's brother. Mina and Devon learn to trust each other as the truth turns out to be more convoluted than either could have imagined. Once again, Adele excels in taking us on a journey of mystery and romance that flows seamlessly, and I enjoyed every word!
Tropes: marriage of convenience, lessons in seduction, murder mystery, grumpy/sunshine, heroine-in-danger, heart-of-gold hero
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
December 21, 2022
This is my 34th book by Adele Clee. I’ve been reading her books since 2016. There are a few authors that I have read all their books and just wait for new releases. I also read many books in between those new releases so when I actually start reading their latest book, I forget how good they really are and Adele is one of those type of authors for me. She is such a great writer.
I freakin’ loved this story. I loved Mina’s character. She seemed so hopeless at first yet still so strong. And Devon seemed such a hard ass at first but WOW was he a great character to get to know. I loved the suspense, the intrigue, the storyline was so damn good. They had such chemistry and the sex was super hot. I marked this down as one of my favorite reads of December.
Can't wait for book 3.
I freakin’ loved this story. I loved Mina’s character. She seemed so hopeless at first yet still so strong. And Devon seemed such a hard ass at first but WOW was he a great character to get to know. I loved the suspense, the intrigue, the storyline was so damn good. They had such chemistry and the sex was super hot. I marked this down as one of my favorite reads of December.
Can't wait for book 3.
December 20, 2022
I absolutely could not put this book down.
Poor Mina has a lot to contend with. Many of her problems are caused by her brother who intends to fight a duel with Devon. She risks her reputation to convince Devon to call off the duel. He is a handsome rogue who can't help but flirt with her and attempt a compromise. The two make a wonderful couple. They share their secrets and work together to find the killer little knowing that someone within the ton is responsible for more than one nefarious deed and that danger stalks them. The drama and suspense make it a very exciting read and the romance is equally intense. A thrilling and romantic read from start to finish.
Poor Mina has a lot to contend with. Many of her problems are caused by her brother who intends to fight a duel with Devon. She risks her reputation to convince Devon to call off the duel. He is a handsome rogue who can't help but flirt with her and attempt a compromise. The two make a wonderful couple. They share their secrets and work together to find the killer little knowing that someone within the ton is responsible for more than one nefarious deed and that danger stalks them. The drama and suspense make it a very exciting read and the romance is equally intense. A thrilling and romantic read from start to finish.
December 13, 2022
Thanks to her brother’s recklessness, Miss Mina Stanford is left with no choice but to visit the notorious Devon Masters in the dead of night and beg him not to fight a duel the next morning with her brother. The difficult and demeaning task is made even more challenging still when the butler assumes she must be a Cyprian and shows her up to the man’s private chamber.
But this chance meeting changes both Mina’s and Devon’s lives forever when he is arrested for her brother’s murder and she is the only one who can account for his innocence, ruining her reputation to save a man from wrongful punishment.
This sort of employment of the marriage of convenience trope is like catnip to me. Mina and Devon meet because he’s the only one she can go to in order to beg for mercy for her brother, but when her brother turns up murdered, Mina winds up being the one who can save Devon from immediate condemnation by an incompetent inspector. I loved the fact that Mina and Devon were together and married early on in the book and the rest of the time they were working together to solve the mystery of her brother’s murder. We got cameos from the couples of previous books, and I loved that too. The mystery here was very elaborate and a bit sinister and I loved how it wrapped up, and especially how Devon and Mina’s relationship strengthened each day they spent together. I loved that he wanted to create intimacy between them even though he was rather cynical. They established an open, honest communication between them from the start and I loved that so much. It made their relationship feel very strong very quickly and I think this may be the steamiest book I’ve read by this author yet (I’m very much here for that if you can’t tell). This one worked very well for me and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
But this chance meeting changes both Mina’s and Devon’s lives forever when he is arrested for her brother’s murder and she is the only one who can account for his innocence, ruining her reputation to save a man from wrongful punishment.
This sort of employment of the marriage of convenience trope is like catnip to me. Mina and Devon meet because he’s the only one she can go to in order to beg for mercy for her brother, but when her brother turns up murdered, Mina winds up being the one who can save Devon from immediate condemnation by an incompetent inspector. I loved the fact that Mina and Devon were together and married early on in the book and the rest of the time they were working together to solve the mystery of her brother’s murder. We got cameos from the couples of previous books, and I loved that too. The mystery here was very elaborate and a bit sinister and I loved how it wrapped up, and especially how Devon and Mina’s relationship strengthened each day they spent together. I loved that he wanted to create intimacy between them even though he was rather cynical. They established an open, honest communication between them from the start and I loved that so much. It made their relationship feel very strong very quickly and I think this may be the steamiest book I’ve read by this author yet (I’m very much here for that if you can’t tell). This one worked very well for me and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
December 21, 2022
Devon Masters is the definition of Dark - he is a card sharp; he holds vowels from many men - commoners to members of the Ton, everyone one fears him, he is wicked, gives no sympathy for not paying their debts and the ladies love him. Then he meets Mina, the sister of one of the men who owes him money and he is set to duel him the next morning.
Miss Mina Stanford is the definition of Light - a simple, shy, innocent young lady and now she is forced to go and meet with the wicked Devon Masters to see if she can talk him out of the duel with her brother. When she goes to his place, she is mistaken for a cyprian that was being sent to him and when she finally gets out why she is there; well, the negotiations begin.
Light Meets Dark and all Devon needs is Mina's light to bring out the real man in him, kind, loving, devoted, and honorable. Devon is taken with Mina innocence but also how brave she was to come and plead for her brother. They come up with a plan to allow her brother out of the duel, but he never shows up at the agreed upon time. No one has seen her brother and then Devon is arrested for the murder of Mina's brother. This is the beginning of the edge of your seat mystery, danger, surprises, romance and excitement. I loved seeing some past friends from The Order and I love the fortune teller's prophecies. As always this was well-written with an exciting story for the fantastic couple to live. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Miss Mina Stanford is the definition of Light - a simple, shy, innocent young lady and now she is forced to go and meet with the wicked Devon Masters to see if she can talk him out of the duel with her brother. When she goes to his place, she is mistaken for a cyprian that was being sent to him and when she finally gets out why she is there; well, the negotiations begin.
Light Meets Dark and all Devon needs is Mina's light to bring out the real man in him, kind, loving, devoted, and honorable. Devon is taken with Mina innocence but also how brave she was to come and plead for her brother. They come up with a plan to allow her brother out of the duel, but he never shows up at the agreed upon time. No one has seen her brother and then Devon is arrested for the murder of Mina's brother. This is the beginning of the edge of your seat mystery, danger, surprises, romance and excitement. I loved seeing some past friends from The Order and I love the fortune teller's prophecies. As always this was well-written with an exciting story for the fantastic couple to live. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
July 11, 2023
I really like Adele's books and this one was another win. I like the inclusion of Mr daventry and his wife from one of her other series. The other thing that drew me to this book was that the blurb had feels of Lauren Smith's The Rogue's Seduction, which is one of my all-time favorite books.
I like the deal with the devil stories, in both books the main character isn't someone who is loved by the ton, he's thought poorly of and despised by many. But he ends up caring about his lady and will use that notoriety and ruthlessness to happily destroy others and protect her/ those he cares about.
There are a few twists in the book that you might see coming and I appreciate that when a villain was decided upon the author saw it through.
I like the deal with the devil stories, in both books the main character isn't someone who is loved by the ton, he's thought poorly of and despised by many. But he ends up caring about his lady and will use that notoriety and ruthlessness to happily destroy others and protect her/ those he cares about.
There are a few twists in the book that you might see coming and I appreciate that when a villain was decided upon the author saw it through.
March 24, 2025
4.25 stars
Premise: Mina must convince the card shark Devon to not duel her brother, only to find the task far simpler when she’s ushered to Devon’s bedchamber because she’s been mistaken for a lady of the night. 👀
This quickly turned into a marriage of convenience romance where they also teamed up to solve a murder, and along the way gave into their excellent chemistry and had great sex. The characters were both very likeable and the story was entertaining (even if some parts were not entirely believable), which is how I feel about many Adele Clee books!
The whole notorious gambler becomes obsessed with his “good” woman is also catnip for me, so it’s no wonder I really enjoyed this story.
Premise: Mina must convince the card shark Devon to not duel her brother, only to find the task far simpler when she’s ushered to Devon’s bedchamber because she’s been mistaken for a lady of the night. 👀
This quickly turned into a marriage of convenience romance where they also teamed up to solve a murder, and along the way gave into their excellent chemistry and had great sex. The characters were both very likeable and the story was entertaining (even if some parts were not entirely believable), which is how I feel about many Adele Clee books!
The whole notorious gambler becomes obsessed with his “good” woman is also catnip for me, so it’s no wonder I really enjoyed this story.
Read
December 23, 2022
Not so Wicked is available in ebook and paperback - https://mybook.to/NotsoWicked
April 3, 2023
they were so cute 😭
April 6, 2023
This was SO GOOD. It kept my attention. The pacing was perfect. It was super romantic. 5 stars. I'm going to read them all.
December 20, 2022
Because of lies told by Mr Wenham, Miss Mina Stanford's name has appeared in the Scandal Sheet. But because of her brother Thomas's gambling and huge debts Mina finds herself at the home of Devon Masters, the man who holds his vowels and the one he is due to fight a duel the next morning. Then her brother is discovered murdered and Masters accused. Together can they find the murderer.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery and romance, with its likeable characters and its mature content. A good addition to this enjoyable series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery and romance, with its likeable characters and its mature content. A good addition to this enjoyable series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2025
This book had both great things and elements I didn't enjoy
What I liked the most were the MCs.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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What I liked the most were the MCs.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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December 20, 2022
The perfect blend of wit, romance & mystery to escape into!
I really loved NOT SO WICKED, becoming absorbed in its rich detail and atmospheric intrigue. Whilst chemistry sizzled, banter flew and mystery sparked hot and thrummed like the rising passion between Devon and Mina, that so gratifyingly built and smouldered from the get go.
I was instantly sucked in by Mina's desperation, feeling it intensely, to the point I was fuming with indignation when she first met Devon. Yet, he quickly won me over with a surprise warmth that glimmered through his facade of blunt rudeness, quest for vengeance and lack of tolerance, until I could do nothing but love him wholeheartedly.
Mina was my kind of heroine, a lady who is overlooked, underestimated and not so obviously beautiful but if you take the time to really look is a rare priceless gem. I just loved how quickly Devon came to see her as a lady of substance, full of untapped passion that he couldn't help but be awed by and craved to unwrap. Growing consumed by a lust that resonated, built and transformed because of her honest unassuming charm, wit, tenacity, gumption against adversity, kindheartedness and unconscious compassion.
Then there is Devon, with his devil may care attitude, a hero that wears his mask of intolerance to great effect and a master of getting his own way. Yet, there is a compelling depth of benevolence at his core that lays hidden with an alluring kindheartedness that I couldn't help but be moved by and drawn to everytime Mina brought it to the surface. As a result, together they complimented each other in such a wonderfully captivating, tender and playfully steamy way that I could of happily been entertained, delighted and enthralled by them for hours after the last statisfying page was turned.
Especially, as the undercurrent of sexual tension thrummed and undulated throughout each encounter which added heart and fun as it cast light on the darker plot turns and revelations in the mysteries and secrets that they worked so hard together to uncover.
Allowing the plot to flow and ebb fluidly with an added twist I didn't see coming until it slapped me in the face and sent me reeling.
A fabulously engaging, 'marriage of convenience', romance wrapped up in a compellingly absorbing murder mystery that combined the dark with the light hearted beautifully, while keeping me coming back for more. Ultimately, a read that showcases why I love Clee's tales so ardently - she never disappoints, creates such colourful, relatable, characters and envelops each scene with a degree of detail and suspense that makes you feel like you are standing right there alongside them! And the next book promises to be just as great... can't wait!
I really loved NOT SO WICKED, becoming absorbed in its rich detail and atmospheric intrigue. Whilst chemistry sizzled, banter flew and mystery sparked hot and thrummed like the rising passion between Devon and Mina, that so gratifyingly built and smouldered from the get go.
I was instantly sucked in by Mina's desperation, feeling it intensely, to the point I was fuming with indignation when she first met Devon. Yet, he quickly won me over with a surprise warmth that glimmered through his facade of blunt rudeness, quest for vengeance and lack of tolerance, until I could do nothing but love him wholeheartedly.
Mina was my kind of heroine, a lady who is overlooked, underestimated and not so obviously beautiful but if you take the time to really look is a rare priceless gem. I just loved how quickly Devon came to see her as a lady of substance, full of untapped passion that he couldn't help but be awed by and craved to unwrap. Growing consumed by a lust that resonated, built and transformed because of her honest unassuming charm, wit, tenacity, gumption against adversity, kindheartedness and unconscious compassion.
Then there is Devon, with his devil may care attitude, a hero that wears his mask of intolerance to great effect and a master of getting his own way. Yet, there is a compelling depth of benevolence at his core that lays hidden with an alluring kindheartedness that I couldn't help but be moved by and drawn to everytime Mina brought it to the surface. As a result, together they complimented each other in such a wonderfully captivating, tender and playfully steamy way that I could of happily been entertained, delighted and enthralled by them for hours after the last statisfying page was turned.
Especially, as the undercurrent of sexual tension thrummed and undulated throughout each encounter which added heart and fun as it cast light on the darker plot turns and revelations in the mysteries and secrets that they worked so hard together to uncover.
Allowing the plot to flow and ebb fluidly with an added twist I didn't see coming until it slapped me in the face and sent me reeling.
A fabulously engaging, 'marriage of convenience', romance wrapped up in a compellingly absorbing murder mystery that combined the dark with the light hearted beautifully, while keeping me coming back for more. Ultimately, a read that showcases why I love Clee's tales so ardently - she never disappoints, creates such colourful, relatable, characters and envelops each scene with a degree of detail and suspense that makes you feel like you are standing right there alongside them! And the next book promises to be just as great... can't wait!
December 30, 2022
“Not so Wicked” is the second book in the ‘Scandal Sheet Survivors’ series by Adele Clee. It’s a captivating story, beautifully written, with wonderful characters who make you wish the book could go on much longer because you don’t want to say goodbye to them.
Mina is desperate to prevent a duel between her ne’er-do-well brother and Devon, the masterful gambler to whom he owes a fortune. In her desperation she acts in a way no respectable young lady ever would, and that immediately kicks the story into high gear. Within these pages there is a marriage of convenience and a murder mystery skillfully woven together. I’m trying to be careful not to reveal too much about the plot of this well-crafted story, because I think it’s best if you experience it the way the author unfolds it. I will tell you that in addition to murder, there is mayhem, scandal, loyalty, betrayal, and plenty of twists and turns. There are also enough lighthearted moments to balance everything nicely. The historical details are vivid but not overwhelming, which enables you to envision everything clearly but keeps the focus on the characters and their story.
Mina and Devon have powerful chemistry, and the fire between them steadily increases until it lights up the pages. You want them to solve the mystery, resolve their respective issues, and find their happily ever after – and all the emotions that come up along the way are supremely satisfying. The variety of secondary characters are clearly depicted. They round out the story as well as keep it moving along. If you’re familiar with other books by Adele Clee in this or any related series’, you’ll enjoy seeing certain other characters appear here. If this is your first book by this author, no worries, it can absolutely be enjoyed as a complete standalone. Be warned – you’ll probably find yourself digging into the author’s previously published work for more, in which case you’ll find all her books are equally excellent. I’m already looking forward to the next scandal sheet survivor!
Mina is desperate to prevent a duel between her ne’er-do-well brother and Devon, the masterful gambler to whom he owes a fortune. In her desperation she acts in a way no respectable young lady ever would, and that immediately kicks the story into high gear. Within these pages there is a marriage of convenience and a murder mystery skillfully woven together. I’m trying to be careful not to reveal too much about the plot of this well-crafted story, because I think it’s best if you experience it the way the author unfolds it. I will tell you that in addition to murder, there is mayhem, scandal, loyalty, betrayal, and plenty of twists and turns. There are also enough lighthearted moments to balance everything nicely. The historical details are vivid but not overwhelming, which enables you to envision everything clearly but keeps the focus on the characters and their story.
Mina and Devon have powerful chemistry, and the fire between them steadily increases until it lights up the pages. You want them to solve the mystery, resolve their respective issues, and find their happily ever after – and all the emotions that come up along the way are supremely satisfying. The variety of secondary characters are clearly depicted. They round out the story as well as keep it moving along. If you’re familiar with other books by Adele Clee in this or any related series’, you’ll enjoy seeing certain other characters appear here. If this is your first book by this author, no worries, it can absolutely be enjoyed as a complete standalone. Be warned – you’ll probably find yourself digging into the author’s previously published work for more, in which case you’ll find all her books are equally excellent. I’m already looking forward to the next scandal sheet survivor!
January 19, 2024
This is the best book in the entire series! And for me so far the best of all the author's books.
Yes, the beginning was not convincing for me: well, I don’t believe when an absolutely ugly heroine (and here the author emphasized a hundred times that her nose is too long, and thick, and her hair is plain and she herself is all timid and boring and at the same time poor) suddenly attracts the attention of a bright man so much that he not only wanted to marry her, but also wanted to sleep with her, fully support her and at the same time be a faithful husband to her. Even on the cover of the book, the woman is ugly. Until almost half of the book, I didn’t believe in this “passion” of the hero, just for the reader to believe in love for an ugly woman, she must be a truly special woman. But as the investigation progressed, the heroine revealed herself to me in a completely different light: for me, she is the best of all the girls in this series: honest, balanced, kind, but at the same time decisive if circumstances require it, quite reasonable, knows how to keep secrets . For me, she was an ideal wife and partner - a kind of quiet haven that knows how to support a man - be it a silent presence next to him and squeezing his hand, be it sex without any special pretense or words when he needs to moderate his pain, etc. And perhaps the antipathy towards the heroine disappeared when the author stopped focusing on how ugly she is. For me, this is the first couple who were ideal together, not just having sex every free minute, but actually being close. Separately, I want to say that I was impressed by the investigation - its outcome was simply unpredictable and the personal drama of the main character was simply heartbreaking. At the end of the book, I just experienced a flurry of emotions empathizing with the hero - this says everything for this kind of book.
In general, I fell in love with this couple, loved their story and really believed that an ugly-looking heroine could just be a beautiful soul.
Yes, the beginning was not convincing for me: well, I don’t believe when an absolutely ugly heroine (and here the author emphasized a hundred times that her nose is too long, and thick, and her hair is plain and she herself is all timid and boring and at the same time poor) suddenly attracts the attention of a bright man so much that he not only wanted to marry her, but also wanted to sleep with her, fully support her and at the same time be a faithful husband to her. Even on the cover of the book, the woman is ugly. Until almost half of the book, I didn’t believe in this “passion” of the hero, just for the reader to believe in love for an ugly woman, she must be a truly special woman. But as the investigation progressed, the heroine revealed herself to me in a completely different light: for me, she is the best of all the girls in this series: honest, balanced, kind, but at the same time decisive if circumstances require it, quite reasonable, knows how to keep secrets . For me, she was an ideal wife and partner - a kind of quiet haven that knows how to support a man - be it a silent presence next to him and squeezing his hand, be it sex without any special pretense or words when he needs to moderate his pain, etc. And perhaps the antipathy towards the heroine disappeared when the author stopped focusing on how ugly she is. For me, this is the first couple who were ideal together, not just having sex every free minute, but actually being close. Separately, I want to say that I was impressed by the investigation - its outcome was simply unpredictable and the personal drama of the main character was simply heartbreaking. At the end of the book, I just experienced a flurry of emotions empathizing with the hero - this says everything for this kind of book.
In general, I fell in love with this couple, loved their story and really believed that an ugly-looking heroine could just be a beautiful soul.
December 11, 2022
I am going to fangirl for just a moment – amazing, fabulous, top-tier writer. Okay, now I have read a lot (not all but am working on the backlog) of Adele’s books. I have loved every single one of them. This has now become one of my favorite books (along with Raven). I am sitting here wondering how to put into words how much I love this story of revenge, redemption, sorrows, mysteries, and love beyond just about anything I have read. Devon is not so wicked, he is wonderfully and devastatingly the most wonderful man. He just needed Mina to show him the way. She is his angel in disguise of a strong, loving, and caring woman. Again, Adele throws in a mystery that threw me off for a while. I did figure this one out but the whys were no so easy to discern. Please, please, if you have never read Adele’s books, give her a try. This is as good a place to start as any. Even though it is second in the series it is a standalone. There are previous characters that show up but you don’t need to read their books first (although I loved seeing some of the Order and the other characters), you will want to when you finish this story. Oh, and I cannot wait for the Chance Brothers to get their own stories. Can you tell I am a huge fan of Adele’s. She is an amazing writer.
Just a quick teaser…you go sister. Read it and see what I mean. I laughed so hard.
If you go to TikTok and search for Adele and watch her teaser for this book…HOT!!!
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
Just a quick teaser…you go sister. Read it and see what I mean. I laughed so hard.
If you go to TikTok and search for Adele and watch her teaser for this book…HOT!!!
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
December 20, 2022
This is the second book in Adele’s Scandal Sheets Survivors series and another really enjoyable addition.
Miss Mina Stanford decides to visit the notorious Mr Devon Masters at his home in the middle of the night to persuade him to cancel his duel with her brother the next morning. This fateful decision leads to Mina being the only one who can prove his innocence when he ends up being accused of her brothers murder instead. When Mina provides an alibi without care to her reputation Devon insists they enter into a marriage of convenience. Banding together Mina and Devon must find the real murderer whilst realising that their marriage of convenience might actually be a true love match.
As with all of Adele’s stories this is a fast paced romance with lots of twists and turns, mystery, and a villain that is unexpected. The story flows well alongside the development of Mina and Devon’s love story. Devon has his secrets and Mina becomes a balm to his wounds. Mina discovers that the man with such a dangerous reputation is certainly 'not so wicked' as everyone believes. It was great seeing glimpses of previous characters from The Order and of course Lucius Daventry.
I'm really enjoying this series and am definitely looking forward to the next instalment. Special mention must go to the cover - it's absolutely gorgeous!
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Miss Mina Stanford decides to visit the notorious Mr Devon Masters at his home in the middle of the night to persuade him to cancel his duel with her brother the next morning. This fateful decision leads to Mina being the only one who can prove his innocence when he ends up being accused of her brothers murder instead. When Mina provides an alibi without care to her reputation Devon insists they enter into a marriage of convenience. Banding together Mina and Devon must find the real murderer whilst realising that their marriage of convenience might actually be a true love match.
As with all of Adele’s stories this is a fast paced romance with lots of twists and turns, mystery, and a villain that is unexpected. The story flows well alongside the development of Mina and Devon’s love story. Devon has his secrets and Mina becomes a balm to his wounds. Mina discovers that the man with such a dangerous reputation is certainly 'not so wicked' as everyone believes. It was great seeing glimpses of previous characters from The Order and of course Lucius Daventry.
I'm really enjoying this series and am definitely looking forward to the next instalment. Special mention must go to the cover - it's absolutely gorgeous!
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 20, 2022
A Phoenix Stole His Heart
Wow! Just wow! I loved Not So Wicked by Adele Clee.
Ms. Clee is a master at her craft, and her skill really shines is this very steamy romantic mystery. I was pulled into the story from the first scene. After that, I could not put it down.
I loved the heroine, Mina. Although she doubts herself and underestimates her own worth, still she is the epitome of strength and courage. She was the perfect match for bad boy Devon. Who, by the way, has secrets, a scary reputation and a not-so-wicked heart.
The story is just the right length, with just the right balance of action (scene movement), dialogue, thoughts and steaminess. Speaking of steaminess, Ms. Clee really knows how to write passionate steam without it being porn-vulgar.
I also loved the cameo appearances of some beloved characters from her previous series. Don't worry if this is the first book you've read by this amazing author. This story stands alone and has a big smile worthy ending.
Content 411: In addition to some swearing (secular and religious) and three “f” vulgarities, this book also contains toe-curling kisses and descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received a complementary ARC of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
Wow! Just wow! I loved Not So Wicked by Adele Clee.
Ms. Clee is a master at her craft, and her skill really shines is this very steamy romantic mystery. I was pulled into the story from the first scene. After that, I could not put it down.
I loved the heroine, Mina. Although she doubts herself and underestimates her own worth, still she is the epitome of strength and courage. She was the perfect match for bad boy Devon. Who, by the way, has secrets, a scary reputation and a not-so-wicked heart.
The story is just the right length, with just the right balance of action (scene movement), dialogue, thoughts and steaminess. Speaking of steaminess, Ms. Clee really knows how to write passionate steam without it being porn-vulgar.
I also loved the cameo appearances of some beloved characters from her previous series. Don't worry if this is the first book you've read by this amazing author. This story stands alone and has a big smile worthy ending.
Content 411: In addition to some swearing (secular and religious) and three “f” vulgarities, this book also contains toe-curling kisses and descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received a complementary ARC of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
December 22, 2022
Miss Wilhelmina Stanford is so desperate that at midnight she calls on The Devil's Lair aka the home of the notorious card sharp, gambler and merciless devil in London, Mr. Devon Masters. Convincing the butler that she has a rendezvous with Mr Masters she is shown to his bedroom where he is yet bathing before preparing to duel Mina's brother in seven hours. Her worthless, lying brother had falsely accused him of cheating at cards an insult that Masters could not overlook. Mina reddens at Master's nudity but pleads with him to spare her brother as he is all she has. As ruthless as Masters is reputed he actually has a heart and they devise a scheme to meet her brother but spare his life. But things go wrong when her brother fails to show and Masters is arrested for his murder. Mina and Devon become an investigative team in true Adele Clee style and along the way the voluptuous Mina loses her viginity to the dashing and seductive Devon. The banter and tone of this seemingly unlikely romance is a delight and the extra spice and sensual steaminess keeps one glued to the pages. Received this arc and have voluntarily and pleasurably reviewed.
December 23, 2022
One can never go wrong with one of Adele's books. This one grabs you on the first page . When a spinster who knows she is plain must meet with a king of rouges anything can happen and does.
First, he insults her thinking her a Cyprian when she is sent to his bedroom ! Devon is not surprised by much but Mina proves to do just that. She is trying to stop a dual and save her worthless brothers hide.
Unfortunately, Devon is accused of his murder and she is the only one who can save him. With her reputation in ruins, she accepts his marriage of convenience. Neither would guess how that would turn out, while they try to solve the murder, uncover secrets they both discover things about the other that leads the marriage to anything but dull. What a fast-paced story with lots of twist and turns and surprises. Both Mina and Devon are much more than either let others see.
You don't want to miss this one so grab it quick and get started. Once you start you will not be able to put it down.. This is a steamy read for those who like to know.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
First, he insults her thinking her a Cyprian when she is sent to his bedroom ! Devon is not surprised by much but Mina proves to do just that. She is trying to stop a dual and save her worthless brothers hide.
Unfortunately, Devon is accused of his murder and she is the only one who can save him. With her reputation in ruins, she accepts his marriage of convenience. Neither would guess how that would turn out, while they try to solve the murder, uncover secrets they both discover things about the other that leads the marriage to anything but dull. What a fast-paced story with lots of twist and turns and surprises. Both Mina and Devon are much more than either let others see.
You don't want to miss this one so grab it quick and get started. Once you start you will not be able to put it down.. This is a steamy read for those who like to know.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
April 24, 2023
3.5 rounded to 4. Thought I'd already posted the review, but I guess not. Hmm. Waffled between 3.75 and 3.5; finally settled on 3.5 I usually find Clee's mysteries the highlight of her books, but the bad guy/motive in this one was way too obvious. I figured him out about halfway through and it became glaring by the last quarter of the book. Also, the MMC spends most of the plot being a hothead who pummels people without first using reason. Have to mention as well that the big climatic scene was on the silly side. The dark mood that is such a hallmark of Clee's books just completely dissipates toward the end.
On the plus side, I thought the MC's had good chemistry. However, their attraction moves too quickly from "she's not my type" to lust. I was hoping for more of a slow burn and clever banter.
I wasn't a big fan of book 3 either, although that MMC elevated it. Hoping for more in book 4
On the plus side, I thought the MC's had good chemistry. However, their attraction moves too quickly from "she's not my type" to lust. I was hoping for more of a slow burn and clever banter.
I wasn't a big fan of book 3 either, although that MMC elevated it. Hoping for more in book 4
January 4, 2023
Mr Devon Masters Aka Devon holds several notes of people that have gambled and owe him literally thousands of dollars! He is hated, envied and feared! Wilhelmina Aka Mina was told she would see her future husband backside before his face! Of course she laughed she’s a spinster and her brother is a gambler and wastrel!
When she goes to Mr Masters home to plead her case on her brothers behalf she’s treated as a strumpet and that she can’t allow as she’s never been kissed!
Devon looks at her and she’s frumpy wrong hair color etc just wrong! But they make bets a few of them and just maybe the chemistry will heat up your kindle or your book!
I love how they wove the inquiry agency into this story closer to the end!
It was a wild ride with betrayal, murder and 2 villains exposed! Get ready to read and love this couple! Can’t wait for Lillian story 😘
When she goes to Mr Masters home to plead her case on her brothers behalf she’s treated as a strumpet and that she can’t allow as she’s never been kissed!
Devon looks at her and she’s frumpy wrong hair color etc just wrong! But they make bets a few of them and just maybe the chemistry will heat up your kindle or your book!
I love how they wove the inquiry agency into this story closer to the end!
It was a wild ride with betrayal, murder and 2 villains exposed! Get ready to read and love this couple! Can’t wait for Lillian story 😘
October 1, 2023
5 STARS, REGENCY ERA MURDER & LOVE
Adele Clee gives us another 5 STARS in Book 2,/in her series : Scandal Street Survivors. Another of her sister series to her stories on Mr Daventry & the Order, his group of very smart investigators.
There is a interesting BLURB that definitely gets one interested in reading it, soon.
As usual in any Adele Clee book that I have read it is well written, has fantastic characters that are fleshed out, filled with intrique, exciting, interesting, sexy & sensual, dripping with mystery, this one has murder, women attacked, & is breathing drama.
It has an underlying love affair with Mina & Devon that all started when she went to beg him not to meet her brother for a duel. Fate does strange thing when it seems to know what people need more than they do.
RECOMMEND
WARNING: SEXUAL EXPLICIT ACTIVITY
Adele Clee gives us another 5 STARS in Book 2,/in her series : Scandal Street Survivors. Another of her sister series to her stories on Mr Daventry & the Order, his group of very smart investigators.
There is a interesting BLURB that definitely gets one interested in reading it, soon.
As usual in any Adele Clee book that I have read it is well written, has fantastic characters that are fleshed out, filled with intrique, exciting, interesting, sexy & sensual, dripping with mystery, this one has murder, women attacked, & is breathing drama.
It has an underlying love affair with Mina & Devon that all started when she went to beg him not to meet her brother for a duel. Fate does strange thing when it seems to know what people need more than they do.
RECOMMEND
WARNING: SEXUAL EXPLICIT ACTIVITY
October 27, 2024
Fun who-dunnit with spice
Adele Clee was lovely in her creation of Mina the FMC, who was intelligent, loyal, and brave, as well as aware & accepting of her ‘bland’ appearance. In this story her looks were not characterized as disrespectfully as typically is done in ugly-duckling-transformation tropes, and Mina did not berate herself in the same way obsessive way that these characters typically do. It was nice to read this sort of woman who had insecurities and still behaved boldly and did not second guess the truth of their passion or love when they were revealed to her.
I suppose the point I’m making is, she’s generally a stronger version of most FMCs in arranged marriage + not-typical-beauty stories and it felt uplifting.
Also, that freaking first scene between them, the tub, the Poseidon thing, the spark 👍
That foretold the spice and that was also
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Adele Clee was lovely in her creation of Mina the FMC, who was intelligent, loyal, and brave, as well as aware & accepting of her ‘bland’ appearance. In this story her looks were not characterized as disrespectfully as typically is done in ugly-duckling-transformation tropes, and Mina did not berate herself in the same way obsessive way that these characters typically do. It was nice to read this sort of woman who had insecurities and still behaved boldly and did not second guess the truth of their passion or love when they were revealed to her.
I suppose the point I’m making is, she’s generally a stronger version of most FMCs in arranged marriage + not-typical-beauty stories and it felt uplifting.
Also, that freaking first scene between them, the tub, the Poseidon thing, the spark 👍
That foretold the spice and that was also
🌶️🌶️🌶️
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