A foray into London's seedy underworld will unmask their hidden desires...
A gentleman on an illicit lark
Edward, the upstanding Viscount Meriden, is desperate for one reckless adventure. After years of holding his crumbling family together, he finally indulges in one night of abandon at a debauched house party, where he meets a masked mystery woman. He longs to uncover all her secrets. But when he realizes she’s an old friend on a dangerous mission, he insists on becoming her protector.
A lady on a dangerous quest
Miss Lucinda Wagner is the only woman in a family of men rumored to be spies. When her father goes missing, she infiltrates a treacherous world to find him. No one suspects her double life until her childhood friend Edward discovers her secret. Now “Steady Eddie� insists upon watching over her. To gain his silence, she allows him to join her search.
A journey into the belly of the beast
As Luci and Edward delve deeper into the criminal underworld, their lives turn upside down. Danger lurks around every corner. Threats assail them from all sides. The only safe harbor in the city is in each other’s arms. Until the sparks between them threaten to ignite their long-denied passion.
I spent my early years longing to be an English countryside vet thanks to James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small series, and an adventurist archaeologist like George Lucas's Indiana Jones character. After studying veterinary pre-med and earning an anthropology degree, I realized my true passion is story in all its forms.
When I'm not writing, reading, or binge-watching stories, I'm often pursuing a physical challenge like studying Krav Maga or aspiring to achieve the perfect crow pose. I also spends her time drinking too much coffee, not enough red wine, and just the right amount of bourbon.
I live in Maryland with my fabulous family, which includes some very spoiled rescue cats.
Excitement galore! Two scandals really are better than one! A Victorian romance set in the criminal underworld. Miss Lucinda Wagner is the only woman in a family of men rumored to be spies. When her father goes missing it's up to her to find out what happens and what better clue than looking through his personal correspondence in his library. The note she finds leads her to a house of ill repute to find a character who may have more information. At this illict house party she is masked and wigged . Viscount Edward Meriden is intrigued by this masked beauty and can not get her off his mind. When he realizes it's a woman he's known a long time he takes her under cover and will protect her as the tension builds while they search dangerous places for her father. Wonderful story line, it kept me on my toes as the suspense and drama builds page by page.
Published May 30th 2019 by Nyb Publishing I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you. All opinions expressed are my own.
4.5 stars This was an entertaining read, I liked that the characters are becoming more familiar and their personalities are coming through. This mainly concentrates on Edward, Viscount Meriden and Lucy Wagner. Edward has been known as Steady Eddie but has decided that it is time to experience an adventure. Edward has taken on the responsibility for his family, even though his parents are alive and well, if not communicating with each other. Luci and Edward have known each other since childhood but it is only lately that Edward realises how attracted he is to Luci. Luci has always had feelings for Edward. They become involved in the mystery of where Luci’s father has gone to. A number of secrets unfold and dangerous events take place. I loved the way that all the friends get together to help each other out. I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
Attending a masked dissolute house party to have one night of abandon, Edward, Viscount Meriden sees her. "There in the archway, framed by the gas lanterns in front of her and the flicker of candles in the sconces from the hall behind her, stood the most glorious creature Edward had ever seen." "This woman, something inside him growled. This woman is what I want."What a way to "see" an old friend he did not recognize at first, Miss Lucinda Wagner. She is in disguise trying to find her missing father and get close to a man there who may know information. But things never quite go as planned and she barely escapes after a wonderful kiss from Edward. Oh yes, she had dreamed of one when she was younger and friends with his sister! When Edward finds out her secret, he insists on protecting her and join the search in some of the most dangerous places! An engaging story that pulled me in from the first and would not let me go until I turned the last page! Danger, suspense, secrets and a steamy attraction that builds with these two wonderful characters! This is the first book I have read by this author and I cannot wait to read more!
Two Scandals Are Better Than One is book three in the Harrow’s Finest Five Series by Nancy Yeager. I enjoyed this book, but I didn’t feel it was as good as the second book in the series. It started strong but then the premise just became a bit too far fetched for me. Lady Lucinda Wagner has been sheltered by her overprotective father and brothers her entire life. When she discovers that her father has a secret, her entire world is turned upside down. Edward Radcliffe, The Viscount Meriden first appeared as Emme’s brother in book two. So this is his love story. I liked the main characters. I enjoyed seeing Lucy grow and show her strength as a woman. I was on board with the plot until it just became too unbelievable for me. But since this is a very well written story I am giving it 4 stars. There are several very steamy scenes in it as well.
I liked Edward & lucy's story. It had an intriguing twist on a historical romance. This was a new author for me. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book via booksprout.
Luci is concerned about her missing father and goes to a gentleman's house party—code word for a den of iniquity—in hopes of gaining information that will help her find him. She doesn't quite realize the dangerous world she is dipping her toe into. She is surprised to find Steady Eddie there, who has been a friend of her of the family since she was a child. She had a crush on him until she realized that he was much too dull for her to truly consider as a life mate. This is why it is such a surprise to find him at this party that is only a step above a brothel. While he doesn't recognize her at the party, he is intrigued by her scandalous persona, and he soon finds out who she really is. Once he knows what is going on, he insists on helping her figure out what’s going on with her father so he can protect her.
I so enjoyed this romantic Victorian suspense! Early on, the author did an excellent job portraying Edward as a proper English gentleman in a very uncomfortable setting; he usually didn’t go to debauched house parties; he wanted just one night of craziness. She was even able to give him speech patterns that make him sound like a toff but not so much that it sounds like unnatural speech; I think this is a hard line to straddle, but the author did this perfectly. The hero and heroine have fantastic chemistry. He is willing to put himself in harm's way to protect her and help her figure out the mystery. The more time they spend together, the more steamy the book becomes, but the progress of their romance seemed appropriate to their characters. I love the suspense element in this plot and enjoyed seeing what the characters had to do as they became more deeply involved in the criminal underworld. The ending was very satisfying.
Luci and Edward are a delightful couple to watch as they try to unravel all that is going on while falling more deeply for each other. This is the second book I’ve read of the Harrow Five series, and I look forward to the next installment. If you like historical romance with a bit of suspense, you will most likely enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
One night and one decision will change everything...
Aaah, I loved this story! It had everything - drama, suspense, intrigue, and romance *sighs*
Bored with the ennui of his life, Edward, Viscount Meriden, longs for an escape. Even if just for one night. Well, they say be careful what you wish for, but I think in our Steady Eddie’s case it’s the best thing that could ever happen to him.
Propriety is paramount to men of Edward’s station. Yet, who knew all that molten passion awaited just underneath those perfect manners? *snorts*
Unleashing in 3, 2, 1...
Boom!
*snorts*
I loved Luci - she totally underestimates her worth! But let me tell you, this is no damsel in distress. As Edward and Luci embark on their mission, she finds she is made of sterner stuff than even she realises.
And did I mention the passion??! Oops, I did *blushes* In my defence though, it bears repeating multiple times. Convention may dictate certain rules, but these two are ready to throw the rulebook out the window *winks*
Although this is book two in the Harrow’s Finest Five Series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I love this cast of characters. Regardless of titles, they are there for each other no questions asked.
I only had one small niggle, and that’s although the book is set in London, it’s been written in US English. But, in the grand scheme of things, that’s neither here nor there.
Yeah *nods*, I know I’ve overused love as an adjective in this review but when it fits, it fits *shrugs*
I’m going to play catch up on the prequel and book one I’ve missed then I only have to wait till August for book three *claps* I’m only sad about one thing: a certain Duke doesn’t have his book till next year. Ugh! I hate waiting...
Edward, Viscount Meriden, heir to an earldom and known for being staid and steady, wants just one irresponsible night. He's cracking under the tedium of his life and the pressure of trying to hold his family together. He attends one illicit house party and instead of engaging in any debauchery, Edward winds up meeting a mysterious masked woman whose secrets he longs to learn. He's both appalled and delighted to learn that his mystery woman is his sister's best friend whom he's known nearly all his life. When he learns she's in danger, he steps up into the role of protector, and perhaps more.
Miss Lucinda Wagner is trying to find her missing father by infiltrating a dangerous gang's network. She allows the reliable Edward to help her so he'll keep her secret. All the time spent together fires a long-smoldering spark between Luci and Edward as they search for Luci's father, Lord Fairbank. Edward fights to remain a gentleman, but it's a rather losing battle. As Edward tries to maintain a respectful distance until he can begin a proper courtship, Luci fears she's just another obligation in his long line of responsibilities.
This book was light-hearted and quick reading while also providing enough suspense and steam to keep me interested. This was my first read from this author, but I'll be following this series now.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall I liked this one--Edward and Lucinda are sympathetic characters, and it was fun to watch them team up to figure out the mystery of what happened to Luci's father and just what is going on in the "house of ill repute" where they start the story. And of course, watching them grow closer was entertaining as well. ;) I especially liked the hidden depths that they both had--Luci had skills that poor Edward never suspected she did (and boy was it fortunate for him that she did!) and it turned out that Edward wasn't nearly as boring as his reputation suggested (which in turn was fortunate for Luci ;) )
Their relationship issues mainly stemmed from a lack of conversation about their relationship, which was annoying at times--but they did resolve it nicely, which made it easier to forgive. I *almost* don't remember all the times I shouted, "Just ASK him already!" in my head by the time I got the the HEA.
A first from this author for me--but probably not my last! The sneak peeks we get into the lives of the rest of the "Harrow's Finest Five" (even the absent one, apparently on some kind of scientific mission) was enough to whet my appetite to look for their books in the future. Even though this is the second book in the series, it worked just fine as a standalone.
I’ve read 2 of these series books and they each have connection to each other and they bring the readers into their world. If you read Emme & Daniel’s story then you will love this one since this is Emme’s older brother Edward a Harrow’s fine son and also Luci is Emme’s 2nd best friend next to Tessa Alcott. They all know each other with they were under 10 and Luci was very young when she fell for Edward but knew he wouldn’t see her other this his sister’s friend, and as a teenager she gave up hope when she hears that Edward was spending his time with his mistress a young widow. But she would have never believed that when she doned on a scandalous dress and a black wig to cover her blond and Edward would be there lusting after her but kissing later on, her dreams came true but in the process she’s on her own mission to find her father that’s never late coming home from business trips. Seedy house of sin, greed, betrayals, secrets, friendships and desires!!
It was tough to finish this book. The plot was just too thin to be believable. The relationship develops wonderfully between the characters, but the mystery is lame. When the climax finally arrives, it’s over way too quickly and easily. Then next chapter, the wedding is in the past and all the buddies and their wives are at a ball. The end. It’s just way too slow in some places, way too brief in others, and skips over some potentially great moments. There are loose ends that are never resolved—where were the brothers? How does society deal with the sudden engagement?
I’m just glad I finished this so I can read something else. There are typos sprinkled throughout, so better editing is suggested.
Lady Lucinda's father is missing. Finding a piece of paper in his office she sets out to Chez Sansoucie, an illicit house. Dressed in a wig and mask she has her sights set upon one man, Hombrage, a cruel and dangerous man who has information about her missing father.
Viscount Edward Meriden is carrying the weight upon his shoulders concerning his family. He and his friend visits Chez Sansoucie. There he is intrigued by a beautiful woman.
When a bet is made during a card game, Edward wins. He and Luci barely make their escape.
A beautiful love story that takes place in the 1800's. Edward and Luci's dangerous journey trying to locate her father.
This was a fun book to read. Lots of drama, action, twists, and romance that grew between two people who had known each other since childhood. Luci’s father goes missing and she’s not able to contact her brothers so she takes things into her own hands and starts searching! Edward has known Luci since she was five but never really paid attention to her, so he was surprised when he found out she was the “mysterious woman in black� from the house party. The story was well written and had great pacing. The suspense was so catching that it was hard to put the book down! I received an ARC for an honest review.
This is the very first book that I have read by Nancy Yeager. I absolutely loved it! I loved the time period that this book was written about. I loved where the story took place and I loved the easy breezy writing style! I have been extremely busy at work and I haven’t been getting a lot of me time. This book was the perfect cure for that. Nancy Yeager drew me into this story with her vivid storytelling. This book was a perfect distraction from the mundane workweek! I would recommend this lovely book to anyone who is looking for a little love story with a little mystery and adventure. Excellent story. I can’t wait to see what other stories she has available!
Two Scandals Are Better Than One is the latest book in the Harris's Finest Five series. Book #3 is in this reader's opinion the best so far. They are all three clean and well written books. I would recommend reading them in order but each book can stand on it's own. I actually read this book first and went back and read books #1 & 2. I am looking forward to book #4. This book gets 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization. We previously met our hero and heroine in the first two books and got to delve deeper into their characters and story here.
This is book 3 in Nancy Yeagers Harrows Finest Five. Although a series I feel they can be read as standalone. Poor “Steady Eddie� had no idea where his night of fun would lead to. Imagine his surprise in discovering his mystery woman was his childhood friend Miss Lucinda Wagner. Not to mention the danger she was putting herself in. I liked the family spy trope. The descriptions of her disguises make giggle but not as much as Eddies. Nancy Yeager has become one of my go to authors. It was a delightful romp with just the right amount of everything I look forward to reading the next books in the series.
Luci and Edward Her father is missing. She is the only female in a family rumored to be spies. She infiltrates a dangerous world looking for him. Edward, a childhood friend, discovers her secret and insists on protecting her. To keep him silent she agrees. This is such an enjoyable book! Lots of danger, intrigue, and of course romance.
Currently there are 3 standalone books in this series, with plans to add more. If you love Victorian romance and mystery, then buy this book... the whole series even.
The main characters are Luci and Edward who know each other and unexpectedly meet in a place neither of them should be! They strike a bargain and work together to find Luci’s dad. The author does a wonderful job of building the characters and their relationship to each other as they become closer to each other. The story is fun at times and there’s some adventure and intrigue that held my attention. An enjoyable read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After reading multiple dark romances, what a wonderful change of pace to read this oh so sweet, regency romance! I fell in absolute love with Edward! Enjoyed Luci's character, even her insecurities! I found myself smiling so often! I even loved the secondary characters and would love to see them in their own book, Swimmer, the Captain! And, yes, I want to follow up on Luci and Edward, and..... Great read! My first book by this author, absolutely, not my last!
An entertaining read. I enjoyed Luci and Edward as they were drawn together. The steam between them was intense as they finally gave into their desire for each other. The danger, intrigue, and growing attraction kept the story more quickly. The secondary characters were a fun bunch as well. I recommend this story.
I received a copy of this story through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
This book was a refreshing read for me. It has wit and a plot that leaves you reading and guessing. The romance is spot on. The characters are well developed and it continues the story of Edward. But, this can be a standalone. The way the family and friends are entertained is entertaining and enjoyable. I was entertained and it kept my attention. I was upset to reach the end. It is a book that you will be glad you read!!
An entertaining read for those who like mystery/ amature sluthing with their historical romances! My first book by Nancy Yeager and I thouroghly enjoyed reading this book and though it took longer for me to read( tornadoes, power loss, no Wi-Fi, etc) I totally recommend this and any future books by this author . I personally feel she is someone to look for in future reading material. Thumbs up , Nancy!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The meeting of a masked beauty. This book was a true adventure so fun to read! The author did a splendid job of bringing out all the characters personalities and the characters were awesome. There is a bit of a mystery and suspense that builds from the start till the end. Great twists and turns I’m looking forward to the next in the series. I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This historical romance was filling with mystery, intrigue, and romance. Luci was foolish trying to find her missing father on her own. After he rescues her from the lecherous man she was trying to interrogate, Edward, Viscount Meriden is brought into her investigation along with the rest of his friends. It was one undercover spy action and misdirection after another as they race to find her father before it’s too late.
This is the story of Edward and Lucinda. This is a first time author for me and what a delightful surprise. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the relationship between them. It has enough suspense and drama to keep you turning the pages. It is light read and very enjoyable. Recommended.
The story, characters and pacing were all well done. There's enough drama to drive the story but not enough to get bogged down in it.
I love that the friends rally to help even when they don't really know what's going on. I love that they tease and enjoy each others company even when in danger. I love that they trust each other even when they're upset with each other.
Book two in the Harrow’s Finest Five series and I want to read the next book. A well written story with a great story line and pages that flowed smoothly from one to the other. Miss Lucinda Wager and Edward,Viscount Meriden's story has drama, danger, suspense, kidnapping, twists, turns, spies, and romance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was a bit surprised by this one. Nicely done. There were some editing issues that were a little annoying, but the writing was good. I do feel like I missed some backstory as this is the third in series, but I’d be happy to go back and read the previous two. 😊
Strong heroine, lovable hero, good supporting cast and some humor thrown in here and there.