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Wicked Widows' League #9
Scandalizing the Scoundrel
The most famous scoundrel in London. The unknown widow who wants him for herself. An affair that proves a lady does not need a lord to fall in love.
Mr. Grant Webster has always commanded the adoration of the ladies. As the most popular and talented equestrian trick rider at Garrison’s Circus, he can have a new lady in his dressing room, and his bed, after every show. When he meets the quietly lovely Lady Fredericka, Viscountess Woodfeld, his nightly affairs feel hollow. She represents everything he wants but can never have—family, privacy, quiet moments of the heart. He wants her. But he’s a man of the streets, not a hint of nobility in his blood, and even if she looked his way, he can never have her.
Lady Fredericka has been quiet too long. Widowed for three long years, she’s ready to step into the spotlight. And what better way to do so than with a man who lives there? Mr. Webster is strong, handsome, and charming—just the man to warm her bed. Every woman wants him, and he seems happy to wink and grin them all into his strong arms. When she suggests an affair, he seems more appalled than pleased. Insulting, that.
She wants a pleasant and passionate affair in a famous man’s bed. He thinks she deserves better than an affair, better than him.
There’s a real man behind the performer, and if they can both see his worth, they might discover that one night of pleasure can lead to a lifetime of love.
Mr. Grant Webster has always commanded the adoration of the ladies. As the most popular and talented equestrian trick rider at Garrison’s Circus, he can have a new lady in his dressing room, and his bed, after every show. When he meets the quietly lovely Lady Fredericka, Viscountess Woodfeld, his nightly affairs feel hollow. She represents everything he wants but can never have—family, privacy, quiet moments of the heart. He wants her. But he’s a man of the streets, not a hint of nobility in his blood, and even if she looked his way, he can never have her.
Lady Fredericka has been quiet too long. Widowed for three long years, she’s ready to step into the spotlight. And what better way to do so than with a man who lives there? Mr. Webster is strong, handsome, and charming—just the man to warm her bed. Every woman wants him, and he seems happy to wink and grin them all into his strong arms. When she suggests an affair, he seems more appalled than pleased. Insulting, that.
She wants a pleasant and passionate affair in a famous man’s bed. He thinks she deserves better than an affair, better than him.
There’s a real man behind the performer, and if they can both see his worth, they might discover that one night of pleasure can lead to a lifetime of love.
- GenresHistorical Romance
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2023
37 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Lane
72 books185 followersCharlie writes Regency romance that's lighthearted and hot. Her books have a little bit of angst, a lot of laughs, and a whole lot of heart and heat.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 24, 2023
As always Charlie Lane delivers an amazing story from beginning to end.
She's afraid to ever marry or love again because she doesn't want to ever see her daughters in pain again after they lost their father but when a circus performer comes into her life and not only makes her body feel alive but makes her heart feel happy and he makes her daughters happy too, she doesn't know what to think or do. Other than to love him for who he is.
He is certain his life is going to end at an early age because of what happened to his father due to his riding in the circus, he thinks that's all he is capable of doing but then he meets his widow who he loves and her daughters and wants nothing more than to live for them.
This story was definitely a delight because it wasn't in a London ballroom and even though she was viscountess she was more than happy to love a circus performer.
I received this story as a gift from the author in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based on my own opinion and experience and no one else's.
She's afraid to ever marry or love again because she doesn't want to ever see her daughters in pain again after they lost their father but when a circus performer comes into her life and not only makes her body feel alive but makes her heart feel happy and he makes her daughters happy too, she doesn't know what to think or do. Other than to love him for who he is.
He is certain his life is going to end at an early age because of what happened to his father due to his riding in the circus, he thinks that's all he is capable of doing but then he meets his widow who he loves and her daughters and wants nothing more than to live for them.
This story was definitely a delight because it wasn't in a London ballroom and even though she was viscountess she was more than happy to love a circus performer.
I received this story as a gift from the author in exchange for a voluntary review and this is purely based on my own opinion and experience and no one else's.
May 10, 2023
This was a low-angst, higher-steam novella. Grant and Freddy were a charming couple. Grant is a circus performer, which I thought added an element of novelty and fun to this novella. Freddy was curvy and didn’t necessarily fit society’s idea of beauty. I really relate to that, and I love to see a FMC that looks more like me get an HEA. I also liked that she pursued him, but he fell first. This was a really fun read.
I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed above are my own.
I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed above are my own.
May 22, 2023
This is only my 7th book by Charlie Lane. I read my first book of hers in Jan, 2021. I enjoyed her London Secrets series. I am reading this book because it’s part of a series with other authors and so I am only reading the books by the authors I normally read.
I am not sure how I feel about this book. I don't mind moving away from my little "ton" world every once and while but this book was really different. It was an interesting read. Characters, "Freddy" and Grant were likable. I just didn't feel anything reading this. I felt like I was reading to read, if that makes any sense.
I am not sure how I feel about this book. I don't mind moving away from my little "ton" world every once and while but this book was really different. It was an interesting read. Characters, "Freddy" and Grant were likable. I just didn't feel anything reading this. I felt like I was reading to read, if that makes any sense.
April 22, 2023
A born performer, equestrian trick rider, candy to the ladies. Grant Webster knows for certain he doesn’t have many years left. Why would he? His father died young doing exactly what he’s doing now. It’s only a matter of time.
Until he gathers his courage and delivers some refreshments to an angel. She’s everything he ever wanted, but never would have: family, warmth and love. She deserves better than a man of the streets, a man of limited days.
When the angel kisses him breathless one night after a show, Grant is lost. If loving her from afar was torture, this would surely be hell. Or could it be heaven? A lifetime?
Lady Fredericka Brooks is an invisible. Lonely, a mousy grey widow with two young daughters. She wasn’t always like that, but somehow life made her disappear.
Hiding away at a wedding, she’s surprised by the kindness of the Garrison Circus equestrian god. Cake, wine and a few flirtatious words. He’s charming, strong and handsome. The Wicked Widows pamphlet she couldn’t quite throw out, is burning a hole in her knitting basket. Maybe she should read it after all…
It takes Freddie a few years, but now she’s ready for a lover, and only one man will do. With a little persistence she breaks through his resistance. A tryst turns into an affair. Sharing sheets, thoughts and secrets. Intimate moments and raw emotions. Trust and friendship and … love?
📚 A short but lovely, tender and enthralling novel about a genuine woman - a mother with insecurities and doubts, scarred by life, looking to live a full life again - and a true noble man - intelligent and caring, but also a realist. The family dynamic in this story plays a major part.
Life isn’t always easy. It’s about choices, what they entail and the courage to decide.
For me, this is an original. Something fresh and different.
📚 Unrequited love, class difference, steamy, open door, best friend’s cousin, he falls first
Thank you to Charlie Lane for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Until he gathers his courage and delivers some refreshments to an angel. She’s everything he ever wanted, but never would have: family, warmth and love. She deserves better than a man of the streets, a man of limited days.
When the angel kisses him breathless one night after a show, Grant is lost. If loving her from afar was torture, this would surely be hell. Or could it be heaven? A lifetime?
Lady Fredericka Brooks is an invisible. Lonely, a mousy grey widow with two young daughters. She wasn’t always like that, but somehow life made her disappear.
Hiding away at a wedding, she’s surprised by the kindness of the Garrison Circus equestrian god. Cake, wine and a few flirtatious words. He’s charming, strong and handsome. The Wicked Widows pamphlet she couldn’t quite throw out, is burning a hole in her knitting basket. Maybe she should read it after all…
It takes Freddie a few years, but now she’s ready for a lover, and only one man will do. With a little persistence she breaks through his resistance. A tryst turns into an affair. Sharing sheets, thoughts and secrets. Intimate moments and raw emotions. Trust and friendship and … love?
📚 A short but lovely, tender and enthralling novel about a genuine woman - a mother with insecurities and doubts, scarred by life, looking to live a full life again - and a true noble man - intelligent and caring, but also a realist. The family dynamic in this story plays a major part.
Life isn’t always easy. It’s about choices, what they entail and the courage to decide.
For me, this is an original. Something fresh and different.
📚 Unrequited love, class difference, steamy, open door, best friend’s cousin, he falls first
Thank you to Charlie Lane for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 1, 2023
“Scandalizing the Scoundrel” is a Regency novella by Charlie Lane. It’s part of the ‘Wicked Widows League’ series, but it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone story.
Lady Fredericka prefers to simply be known as Freddie. She’s been a widow for several years, although her late husband had already basically ‘checked out’ of the marriage not long after their two daughters and he lost interest in his wife. Freddie is a devoted mother, but she is desperate for a personal connection of her own. Grant is a renowned trick rider Garrison’s Circus. In addition to his athletic talents, he’s handsome and charming. He also expects to die young. Those attributes, combined with other things in his past, have led him to never expect a real, meaningful, and loving relationship in his life. He’s very drawn to Freddie, but knows he isn’t worthy of her. When she sets out to prove him wrong, they both learn some valuable lessons.
Freddie and Grant both have to learn to be bold, each in their own way. They are so different, but both are truly seeking some of the same things including the dream of long-lasting, unconditional love. The main characters in the story are interesting and unexpected, and their personal chemistry is intense. The secondary characters, including Freddie’s children and Garrison the circus owner, are entertaining and engaging. I enjoyed the ending of the story and appreciated just how much action and emotion the author managed to fit into this novella.
I read an advance copy of this story and agreed to share my honest thoughts and opinions about it.
Lady Fredericka prefers to simply be known as Freddie. She’s been a widow for several years, although her late husband had already basically ‘checked out’ of the marriage not long after their two daughters and he lost interest in his wife. Freddie is a devoted mother, but she is desperate for a personal connection of her own. Grant is a renowned trick rider Garrison’s Circus. In addition to his athletic talents, he’s handsome and charming. He also expects to die young. Those attributes, combined with other things in his past, have led him to never expect a real, meaningful, and loving relationship in his life. He’s very drawn to Freddie, but knows he isn’t worthy of her. When she sets out to prove him wrong, they both learn some valuable lessons.
Freddie and Grant both have to learn to be bold, each in their own way. They are so different, but both are truly seeking some of the same things including the dream of long-lasting, unconditional love. The main characters in the story are interesting and unexpected, and their personal chemistry is intense. The secondary characters, including Freddie’s children and Garrison the circus owner, are entertaining and engaging. I enjoyed the ending of the story and appreciated just how much action and emotion the author managed to fit into this novella.
I read an advance copy of this story and agreed to share my honest thoughts and opinions about it.
May 10, 2023
Grant Webster is an equestrian trick rider in the circus, just like his father. He is good looking and is never lacking female attention or liaisons. He is drawn to Lady Fredericka known as Freddie. She is a shy and insecure widow who has decided she wants to be seduced and Grant will be her seducer.
As much as he wants to be with Freddie, he knows he will die young like his father and does not want her and her two children to suffer that loss again, so he attempts to do the right thing and walk away. Unfortunately, Freddie is persuasive and Grant can only deny himself what he desires for just so long.
Once again, Charlie Lane has written a story about everyday people coming from different classes in life but who are meant to be together. An added benefit was Freddie’s children who were very much part of their story and the caring nature Grant had towards them was another reason he was such a special man. I loved how he treated Freddie and helped her to see herself differently, she became stronger and lost some of her insecurities. The depth of affection, steamy love scenes, laughter and chemistry they had together was deliciously delightful and had me entertained until the very last page.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and am providing my honest review.
As much as he wants to be with Freddie, he knows he will die young like his father and does not want her and her two children to suffer that loss again, so he attempts to do the right thing and walk away. Unfortunately, Freddie is persuasive and Grant can only deny himself what he desires for just so long.
Once again, Charlie Lane has written a story about everyday people coming from different classes in life but who are meant to be together. An added benefit was Freddie’s children who were very much part of their story and the caring nature Grant had towards them was another reason he was such a special man. I loved how he treated Freddie and helped her to see herself differently, she became stronger and lost some of her insecurities. The depth of affection, steamy love scenes, laughter and chemistry they had together was deliciously delightful and had me entertained until the very last page.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and am providing my honest review.
July 28, 2023
⭐⭐ONE WICKEDLY DELICIOUS RIDE⭐⭐
Hopping hoops hanna! Charlie hit the motherload with all the frills, spills and tantalizing chills, tugging all of those heartstrings while putting every feel into play front and center. Locking in each sentiment, nuance and essence, jetting this jewel to new heights. Attentive to the dramatic twists and wicked turns unfolding, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Shenanigans and escapades descend in a flurry of calculated tactics and sensual strategy. Busted barriers and sketchy perimeters solidify as limitations are amplified and tested, exhibiting the soaring ups and agonizing downs. Breathtaking in it's simplicity and inspiring in it's depth, spinning this baby to life brilliantly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity. Adding enough spice to for an extra kick to the mix. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Charlie, thanks for sharing this awesome little guy with us.
Hopping hoops hanna! Charlie hit the motherload with all the frills, spills and tantalizing chills, tugging all of those heartstrings while putting every feel into play front and center. Locking in each sentiment, nuance and essence, jetting this jewel to new heights. Attentive to the dramatic twists and wicked turns unfolding, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Shenanigans and escapades descend in a flurry of calculated tactics and sensual strategy. Busted barriers and sketchy perimeters solidify as limitations are amplified and tested, exhibiting the soaring ups and agonizing downs. Breathtaking in it's simplicity and inspiring in it's depth, spinning this baby to life brilliantly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity. Adding enough spice to for an extra kick to the mix. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Charlie, thanks for sharing this awesome little guy with us.
May 7, 2023
Scandalizing the Scoundrel by Charlie Lane is an endearing second chance romance. Freddy was widowed, and she decided that she was ready for some wickedness. Grant has always been a quick fling kind of guy after seeing how his father’s life ended. What happens when he accidentally meets his match? An engrossing story, that’s what!
Freddy is such a relatable heroine. She’s a woman who is used to being in the shadows. She is a curvy woman, and as one myself, I can attest to that sometimes it’s difficult to feel attractive when one compares oneself to Society’s ideal. Grant is a compelling hero. I enjoyed the fact that he wasn’t technically nobility and that he had an uncommon career. I also loved that he fell for her first. Charlie packed a lot of action and emotion into a novella!
This installment of The Wicked Widows also has appearances by the Cavendish family, but have no fear, this book can be read as a standalone.
Freddy is such a relatable heroine. She’s a woman who is used to being in the shadows. She is a curvy woman, and as one myself, I can attest to that sometimes it’s difficult to feel attractive when one compares oneself to Society’s ideal. Grant is a compelling hero. I enjoyed the fact that he wasn’t technically nobility and that he had an uncommon career. I also loved that he fell for her first. Charlie packed a lot of action and emotion into a novella!
This installment of The Wicked Widows also has appearances by the Cavendish family, but have no fear, this book can be read as a standalone.
May 10, 2023
I adore Charlie Lane's writing style! She sets the stage with delightful expressions and paints a vivid picture with her words. Grant Webster will win you over the moment he hits the page, the consummate showman, he knows how to work a crowd. His tender care and consideration of Freddy (Lady Frederica) and the way he lovingly takes to her girls will melt your heart. Despite only wanting an affair, Freddy is hopeless when it comes to keeping her heart closed off from this man. This story is packed with tender moments and wicked escapades. If you have read any of the Cavendish family series, you will delight in the appearances within this story. A beautiful family, I adored the sweet motherly moments revisiting with Sarah. She has the perfect perspective to impart much-needed wisdom to Freddy in finding her heart. The subtle message of the book proves a powerful message for us all... the best way to live is "to be at the heart of the circus of life, not on the sidelines."
May 9, 2023
Circus, yeah!!! I was looking forward to this book and it was all I yearned for and much more! I loved, loved, loved Grant and his good heart, and shy, neglected Freddy who decided to try and step into the light. Never as in this case appearances can be deceptive and the Golden Boy who seemed carefree and shallow revealed a surprising depth of character and a sweet core. But of course he’s a Charlie Lane’s cinnamon roll of a hero! And she’s such a talented writer who always makes me love this kind of heroes even if I’d prefer an alpha male. This Wicked Widows series is always a gorgeous read, even if the widows are really not so wicked, but rather women who want to unleash their full potential and in doing so they find love.
A truly beautiful book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A truly beautiful book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 6, 2023
What a delightful series this is! Grant and Freddy’s story fits right in, filled with wonderful characters, charming dialogue and a sizzling romance. Freddy is a shy widow, that loves her two little girls, but desires more in her life. She is totally captivated by Mr. Grant Webster, a trick rider in the circus. He is witty and charming, and treats her like a Queen . She finally gets up the courage to seek out a liaison with him. Thus begins a passionate romance with no strings attached that has them desiring so much more. So very endearing and heartwarming!
May 10, 2023
Entertaining.
Oh my, this one an interesting and entertaining book to read. The heroine is a widow who finds she was something more out of life. The hero is a charmer that you will love. It has it drama and some misguided thinking to deal with on both sides but I really liked the characters and was rooting for them all the way. I loved the story and I highly recommend it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Oh my, this one an interesting and entertaining book to read. The heroine is a widow who finds she was something more out of life. The hero is a charmer that you will love. It has it drama and some misguided thinking to deal with on both sides but I really liked the characters and was rooting for them all the way. I loved the story and I highly recommend it. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 12, 2023
Perfectly charming and heartwarming characters. Witty and romantic! Interesting plot that kept me thoroughly engaged throughout. Enjoyed every minute of it!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
May 16, 2023
Freddy is a widow who lives with her cousin in law. Grant is a trick rider in the circus. She decides that she would like to have Grant for a lover. He decides that he wants to marry her, but thinks she is far above his station in life.
Freddy is scared that his job will cause her more heartache for her and her daughters.
Grant persevered in his pursuit of her and they got their HEA in the end.
Freddy is scared that his job will cause her more heartache for her and her daughters.
Grant persevered in his pursuit of her and they got their HEA in the end.
March 11, 2024
3.5 stars
This is a fun, entertaining read. Freddie and Grant are interesting, relatable, intriguing, entertaining, complex characters. I enjoyed the path their romance took to get to their HEA. The secondary characters – including Freddie’s daughters – added to the fabric of the story. The story is easy to read and get into.
This is a fun, entertaining read. Freddie and Grant are interesting, relatable, intriguing, entertaining, complex characters. I enjoyed the path their romance took to get to their HEA. The secondary characters – including Freddie’s daughters – added to the fabric of the story. The story is easy to read and get into.
June 1, 2023
This thrilling series marches on
This is another brilliantly created steamy story in this series which marches on with aplomb. The emotional turmoil and insecurities of the amazingly portrayed characters, make this a very captivating and entertaining piece of reading.
This is another brilliantly created steamy story in this series which marches on with aplomb. The emotional turmoil and insecurities of the amazingly portrayed characters, make this a very captivating and entertaining piece of reading.
September 10, 2023
Sweet Love Story!
Very enjoyable read. I loved the characters and storyline. It takes a lot to overcome a broken heart. Freddie and Grant were both strong characters. I’d love more story of course but this was a good one. On to the next one. “To Woo A Rake” 🥰💜💜💜💜💜
Very enjoyable read. I loved the characters and storyline. It takes a lot to overcome a broken heart. Freddie and Grant were both strong characters. I’d love more story of course but this was a good one. On to the next one. “To Woo A Rake” 🥰💜💜💜💜💜
May 13, 2023
A riding surprise
Itvwas great to read more about the Cavendish famiky and hope it is not the last we hear about them
Itvwas great to read more about the Cavendish famiky and hope it is not the last we hear about them
September 10, 2024
Enjoyed
It was so hard to put down this book. It was a page turner! It had all the feels. Grant and Freddy were my favorite story.
It was so hard to put down this book. It was a page turner! It had all the feels. Grant and Freddy were my favorite story.
May 13, 2023
Wonderful short romance, great characters and plot. Grant and Lady Fredericka make for a good pairing. A wonderful addition to the Wicked Widows' League series.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews