What do you think?
Rate this book
Disgrace and Desire
They call her the Wanton Widow...
Breathtaking beautiful Lady Eloise Allyngham scandalises and seduces the ton in equal measure. With all of London falling at her feet, wagers abound over who will capture the fast, flirtatious, disgraceful Lady Eloise - and her fortune...
Dashing Major Jack Clifton has vowed to watch over his late comrade's wife, but her beauty fires his blood, and her behaviour intrigue him even further. Only the lady is not what she seems, and Jack must discover the secret she fiercely hides if he is to protect her...
379 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2010
13 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Mallory
210 books118 followersSarah Mallory is the pen name for Melinda Hammond.
Born in Bristol, England, UK, she grew up telling stories. She would make up adventures to relate to her school friends during break times and lunch hours, and she was once caught scribbling a story instead of listening to the French lesson. As a punishment, her teacher made her translate the story into French! She left school at sixteen and worked in offices as varied as stockbrokers, marine engineers, insurance brokers, biscuit manufacturers and even a quarrying company.
She married at nineteen, but continued to work until the birth of her first child. It was at that time that she decided to try her hand at her first love—writing, and shortly after the birth of her daughter she had her first book, Fortune's Lady, published under the pen name of Melinda Hammond. This was quickly followed by two more historical novels, Summer Charade and Autumn Bride, but with the birth of her twin sons the demands of family life meant that writing had to take a backseat for a few years. A compulsive scribbler, she never stopped writing and continued to work on research for her novels, experimenting with contemporary scenarios as well as writing pantomimes for her children's school. In 1989 the family moved to an isolated Pennine farmhouse in West Yorkshire, not far from Brontë country, where the family expanded to include a dog, two gerbils and a dozen chickens. The growing family needed funding and she went back to work full-time. The writing had to be put on hold.
Then, in March 2000, Sarah stepped off a curb and landed in hospital with one ankle broken and one badly sprained. This laid her up on a sofa for twelve weeks and gave her the time she needed to finish a novel. She wrote as Melinda Hammond and Maid of Honour was published the same year. Since then she has never looked back. She's published more than a dozen books under this pen name and has won the Reviewers' Choice Award in 2005 from Singletitles.com for Dance for a Diamond. Her novel Gentlemen in Question was a Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice Title in November 2006. In 2012 her novel The Dangerous Lord Darrington won the Love Story of the Year by the Romantic Novelists' Association. She is now concentrating on writing romantic historical adventures for Mills & Boon.
Born in Bristol, England, UK, she grew up telling stories. She would make up adventures to relate to her school friends during break times and lunch hours, and she was once caught scribbling a story instead of listening to the French lesson. As a punishment, her teacher made her translate the story into French! She left school at sixteen and worked in offices as varied as stockbrokers, marine engineers, insurance brokers, biscuit manufacturers and even a quarrying company.
She married at nineteen, but continued to work until the birth of her first child. It was at that time that she decided to try her hand at her first love—writing, and shortly after the birth of her daughter she had her first book, Fortune's Lady, published under the pen name of Melinda Hammond. This was quickly followed by two more historical novels, Summer Charade and Autumn Bride, but with the birth of her twin sons the demands of family life meant that writing had to take a backseat for a few years. A compulsive scribbler, she never stopped writing and continued to work on research for her novels, experimenting with contemporary scenarios as well as writing pantomimes for her children's school. In 1989 the family moved to an isolated Pennine farmhouse in West Yorkshire, not far from Brontë country, where the family expanded to include a dog, two gerbils and a dozen chickens. The growing family needed funding and she went back to work full-time. The writing had to be put on hold.
Then, in March 2000, Sarah stepped off a curb and landed in hospital with one ankle broken and one badly sprained. This laid her up on a sofa for twelve weeks and gave her the time she needed to finish a novel. She wrote as Melinda Hammond and Maid of Honour was published the same year. Since then she has never looked back. She's published more than a dozen books under this pen name and has won the Reviewers' Choice Award in 2005 from Singletitles.com for Dance for a Diamond. Her novel Gentlemen in Question was a Historical Novel Society Editors' Choice Title in November 2006. In 2012 her novel The Dangerous Lord Darrington won the Love Story of the Year by the Romantic Novelists' Association. She is now concentrating on writing romantic historical adventures for Mills & Boon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 15, 2025
The Major and the Scandalous Widow was originally published in 2010 for the Mills & Boon line, Disgrace and Desire and then was repackaged for Harlequin Historical in 2023. I read the 2023 version and I could have told you from the first full chapter of this book that it was from the 2010s and not this decade. The way this book approached the heroine's reputation and secrets was so late 00s, early 10s and just not how they would be approached today.
We open the novel on the battlefield at Waterloo. Lord Allyngham has been mortally wounded and asks Major Jack Clifton to get two letters, a locket and a ring out of his jacket. The letters are for his wife and best friend and the locket and ring are items Allyngham would like Jack to personally return to his widow. We fast forward one year and find Lady Eloise Allyngham coming back into London society on the arm of her late husband's best friend, Alex Mortimer, after a year of mourning. Her close relationship with Alex has led people to believe that she is having an affair with him and is of loose morals and they have christened her the "Wanton Widow." Jack is back in London to follow through on Allyngham's wishes. When he meets Eloise, he's immediately drawn to her. And when Eloise starts receiving threatening letters, Jack can't help but get involved, both to honor his late comrade in arms but also to protect this woman he can't stay away from.
The big plot line in this book centers around a journal that went missing after Eloise's husband died. It's full of personal information that could ruin the lives of several people and disgrace the Allyngham name should it get out. Eloise will do anything to get the journal back but won't tell Jack what's in it because they are not her secrets to tell. Now had I read this back in 2010, I might not have been able to guess at what the secret was, but this book was republished in 2023 when it was blatantly obvious what the secret was. It was also very obvious to the reader that it was shitty men around Eloise and not her behavior that led to her reputation and sobriquet. If this book were written today, I think Sarah Mallory would have approached the story in a very different way. You can still do slut shaming in a historical romance but the story would have been approached in a more modern way that leaned less into the purity culture and more into how wrong society was.
I was able to enjoy parts of this book but because I guessed every single twist in the plot, I wasn't super enthused. 3 stars.
We open the novel on the battlefield at Waterloo. Lord Allyngham has been mortally wounded and asks Major Jack Clifton to get two letters, a locket and a ring out of his jacket. The letters are for his wife and best friend and the locket and ring are items Allyngham would like Jack to personally return to his widow. We fast forward one year and find Lady Eloise Allyngham coming back into London society on the arm of her late husband's best friend, Alex Mortimer, after a year of mourning. Her close relationship with Alex has led people to believe that she is having an affair with him and is of loose morals and they have christened her the "Wanton Widow." Jack is back in London to follow through on Allyngham's wishes. When he meets Eloise, he's immediately drawn to her. And when Eloise starts receiving threatening letters, Jack can't help but get involved, both to honor his late comrade in arms but also to protect this woman he can't stay away from.
The big plot line in this book centers around a journal that went missing after Eloise's husband died. It's full of personal information that could ruin the lives of several people and disgrace the Allyngham name should it get out. Eloise will do anything to get the journal back but won't tell Jack what's in it because they are not her secrets to tell. Now had I read this back in 2010, I might not have been able to guess at what the secret was, but this book was republished in 2023 when it was blatantly obvious what the secret was. It was also very obvious to the reader that it was shitty men around Eloise and not her behavior that led to her reputation and sobriquet. If this book were written today, I think Sarah Mallory would have approached the story in a very different way. You can still do slut shaming in a historical romance but the story would have been approached in a more modern way that leaned less into the purity culture and more into how wrong society was.
I was able to enjoy parts of this book but because I guessed every single twist in the plot, I wasn't super enthused. 3 stars.
September 28, 2023
When Lord Tony Allyngham is fatally injured on the battlefield at Waterloo, he entrusts a locket and his ring to his comrade-in-arms Major Jack Clifton, asking him to return them to his young wife Eloise. A year or so later, he finally has the opportunity – but far from finding a grieving and fragile widow, Eloise’s company is highly sought after in society circles, where she has acquired something of a scandalous reputation. Her childhood friend Alex Mortimer is always at her side, their true relationship the subject of much speculation – but that’s something she’s not over concerned about, rather enjoying the attention, as she focuses on continuing her husband’s charitable endeavours by attempting to set up a foundling hospital.
As the predatory men circle, Jack finds himself becoming another of her protectors – because of a promise to his dying friend, but also finding himself falling for her considerable charms. But their lives become increasingly complicated by a blackmail plot – a stolen journal containing unknown secrets with the potential for immense damage that must be recovered, and a dangerous villain with an agenda all of his own.
The developing romance in this book was, I thought, simply wonderful – both Jack and Eloise are such well-drawn and sympathetic characters, far more complex than you might be expecting, and there’s a real sizzle to the chemistry between them. Theirs was a relationship I entirely believed in and felt completely invested in the outcome – all those wrong turns and misunderstandings, the palpable tension as they tried to resist the strong attraction between them, but inexorably building in a way I thoroughly enjoyed. But I equally loved the blackmail plot, with its exciting and unexpected twists and turns – the many layers of deceit, the moments of danger, the strong sense of loyalty underpinning some of the more questionable decisions along the way, with elements to the story that certainly came as a surprise but were so cleverly woven into the story’s fabric.
The storytelling is exceptional, the whole pacing of the story just perfect, the romance tender and totally convincing, and the Regency world its engaging characters inhabit absolutely real – this was one of those rather special books that I found totally impossible to set aside, the pages turning ever faster as the danger level rose and Eloise’s ultimate fate became increasingly uncertain. If you think Regency romance might not be something you’d enjoy, this book really would be the most perfect introduction – I couldn’t recommend it more highly.
As the predatory men circle, Jack finds himself becoming another of her protectors – because of a promise to his dying friend, but also finding himself falling for her considerable charms. But their lives become increasingly complicated by a blackmail plot – a stolen journal containing unknown secrets with the potential for immense damage that must be recovered, and a dangerous villain with an agenda all of his own.
The developing romance in this book was, I thought, simply wonderful – both Jack and Eloise are such well-drawn and sympathetic characters, far more complex than you might be expecting, and there’s a real sizzle to the chemistry between them. Theirs was a relationship I entirely believed in and felt completely invested in the outcome – all those wrong turns and misunderstandings, the palpable tension as they tried to resist the strong attraction between them, but inexorably building in a way I thoroughly enjoyed. But I equally loved the blackmail plot, with its exciting and unexpected twists and turns – the many layers of deceit, the moments of danger, the strong sense of loyalty underpinning some of the more questionable decisions along the way, with elements to the story that certainly came as a surprise but were so cleverly woven into the story’s fabric.
The storytelling is exceptional, the whole pacing of the story just perfect, the romance tender and totally convincing, and the Regency world its engaging characters inhabit absolutely real – this was one of those rather special books that I found totally impossible to set aside, the pages turning ever faster as the danger level rose and Eloise’s ultimate fate became increasingly uncertain. If you think Regency romance might not be something you’d enjoy, this book really would be the most perfect introduction – I couldn’t recommend it more highly.
February 11, 2024
DNF. The secret is almost embarrassingly easy to guess so I lost interest.
May 3, 2024
Creative and clever.
If you want the high quality romance with many twists and turns then this is an author you should always be looking out for especially over at Mills and Boon..
From opening page till the last one it's east, fun and exciting to read. This is a skill that Sarah Mallory often shows off. She is a true artist and I am honoured to review this for her.
This was more than a must read and I can't wait to share with you the review I am doing for her other book. Each one is a treat and a half..
If you want the high quality romance with many twists and turns then this is an author you should always be looking out for especially over at Mills and Boon..
From opening page till the last one it's east, fun and exciting to read. This is a skill that Sarah Mallory often shows off. She is a true artist and I am honoured to review this for her.
This was more than a must read and I can't wait to share with you the review I am doing for her other book. Each one is a treat and a half..
September 30, 2023
I loved this one from @sarahmallory21 Eloise was such a fabulous character, her love and loyalty to her husband and her best friend Alex was admirable and her determination to protect them whatever the consequences was tenacious and brave. Jack was a delicious hero determined to carry out a favour for his fallen colleague and by doing so gets caught up in the blackmail plot facing Eloise and Alex. I loved how Eloise and Jack fell in love, he wanted to protect her and she was so scared of revealing her secrets. The complex relationships and characters were so so well written that they kept me reading until the end because I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. A truly gripping story of love, friendship, blackmail and complex dynamics that is one of the best historical stories I’ve read. Thank you Sarah for sharing this one with me ❤️
November 10, 2020
This book was everything I wanted it to be. A lady who didn't care for her reputation, a dashing hero who didn't care if she'd taken numerous lovers and wasn't scandalised by her big secret, and a dastardly villain who got his comeuppance. Loved it.
January 14, 2025
The book opens with the heartbreaking scene of Lord Tony Allyngham receiving a fatal injury during the Battle of Waterloo. He entrusts his friend, Major Jack Clifton, with two keepsakes he wishes to return to his wife. A year later, Jack finally has the chance to fulfill his mission. He is dismayed to find a widow with a scandalous reputation instead of the grieving young woman he expected.
Eloise spent her year mourning, then reemerged in Society as a beautiful and wealthy young woman. Though sought after by many, she is not interested in marrying again, only continuing Tony's charitable intentions by setting up a foundling hospital. By her side is her good friend, Alex, who grew up with her and Tony. Their relationship is the subject of speculation and rumor.
Jack and Eloise's first meeting did not go well. They encountered each other at a Society event, where Jack saw the flirtatious, care-free façade that Eloise shows in public. He's judgmental and believes the rumors he hears. However, when they meet again for him to deliver Tony's keepsakes, Jack sees a different side of her. He is still unsure what to believe, but he can't deny the sparks of attraction he feels. Eloise also feels something that has been missing from her life.
Jack's emotions are torn when it comes to Eloise. He can't deny his growing feelings for her, but he knows she has secrets she won't share. Those secrets become a problem when Eloise finds herself the victim of a blackmailer. I could feel her fear of exposure, her unswerving loyalty to those who would suffer if they were revealed, and her determination to protect those she loves. Jack wants to help but she shuts him out.
The blackmail plot introduces a sense of danger as the blackmailer grows more desperate. Eloise's determination to handle everything alone put her in several dangerous situations, making her future increasingly uncertain. The final showdown with the blackmailer was an intense nail-biter of an event with an excellent resolution.
The only thing left is for Jack and Eloise to get past the secrets that keep them apart. I figured out the secrets that Eloise was protecting early on and why it was so important to protect them. I loved Alex's part in bringing them together and Jack's ultimate understanding of the truth. The ending was terrific.
Eloise spent her year mourning, then reemerged in Society as a beautiful and wealthy young woman. Though sought after by many, she is not interested in marrying again, only continuing Tony's charitable intentions by setting up a foundling hospital. By her side is her good friend, Alex, who grew up with her and Tony. Their relationship is the subject of speculation and rumor.
Jack and Eloise's first meeting did not go well. They encountered each other at a Society event, where Jack saw the flirtatious, care-free façade that Eloise shows in public. He's judgmental and believes the rumors he hears. However, when they meet again for him to deliver Tony's keepsakes, Jack sees a different side of her. He is still unsure what to believe, but he can't deny the sparks of attraction he feels. Eloise also feels something that has been missing from her life.
Jack's emotions are torn when it comes to Eloise. He can't deny his growing feelings for her, but he knows she has secrets she won't share. Those secrets become a problem when Eloise finds herself the victim of a blackmailer. I could feel her fear of exposure, her unswerving loyalty to those who would suffer if they were revealed, and her determination to protect those she loves. Jack wants to help but she shuts him out.
The blackmail plot introduces a sense of danger as the blackmailer grows more desperate. Eloise's determination to handle everything alone put her in several dangerous situations, making her future increasingly uncertain. The final showdown with the blackmailer was an intense nail-biter of an event with an excellent resolution.
The only thing left is for Jack and Eloise to get past the secrets that keep them apart. I figured out the secrets that Eloise was protecting early on and why it was so important to protect them. I loved Alex's part in bringing them together and Jack's ultimate understanding of the truth. The ending was terrific.
August 27, 2020
A beautiful read from start to finish. Eloise and Jack's romance builds over the course of the novel with the secret she harbours in a journal which becomes central to the conflict and the facade that Eloise makes to the ton and to people she knows in society following the death of her husband. Sarah Mallory's writing gives a fresh take on romance which I really loved about this book. It had me on my seat from day one so giving this book four stars was already a given. The love scenes were tender, sweet and beautiful which was great because it did not have too much fluff like in other books and it was perfect made between two characters like Jack and Eloise.
June 28, 2024
It’s no secret that I have a "type" when it comes to bookish heroes, and Major Jack Clifton is definitely my "type", I'm in absolute swooning, adoring love with this man!😍
Men in uniform are like my catnip, I can never get enough of them, a handsome, rugged, proud, loyal and scarred man in uniform … sigh!!
I blame growing up with Sharpe, my dad read the books (and then handed them to me, hence why I have a box full under my bed) and my mum loved the show - or Beany in that green jacket to be precise (the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree does it?😅!)
So on hearing that one of my favourite authors has written a book with a Napoleonic war hero you just know for certain that I am going to read it, and read it I did!
Ah, Jack - honestly doesn't take much to steel my heart!
I loved the opening of this, right at the heart of the battle of Waterloo, you instantly get a sense of the horror of the battle and the raw emotion. The unnatural stillness of death, the haunting feel of loss and the exhilaration of going into the fray. You are transported to the battle; a wash of acidic and claustrophobic smoke, battle cries, shouts and screams. It's a relatively small part of the book but I thought those first scenes are the most captivating and heartbreaking of the entire story, it's superbly written.!
So, bravo Sarah Mallory, Bravo!!
Jack is utterly devastated by the loss of his good friend; Lord Tony Allyngham, grief that keeps hold of Jack throughout; grief and guilt are a constant complex emotion for him. Before his death Tony made Jack promise him to return his ring to his wife; Eloise, back in England. Jack being the loyal friend and soldier that he is, does as asked, he would lay down his life for the man he not only calls sir, but like a brother!
Jack is not looking for any kind of entanglement, he's there to do a job, simple! He has no intention whatsoever of romance, (well that is what he keeps telling himself) besides the lovely widow is a walking scandal and reputed man-eater, or so he has been told!
No, get in drop off the ring and get out – just like any other battlefield skirmish!
A year later, when he is finally able to return to old Blighty Jack goes in search of Lady Eloise and soon realises that the lovely widow isn't the man-eater he has been led to believe that she has been labelled as such by the ton with the help of Eloise herself as a way to protect herself from the wolves howling at the door.
Being the gallant and protective officer that he is, Jack's hackles start rising as how the predators are circling, they can smell money like vultures on a fresh kill. Plus he doesn't like the injustice of how those around her have placed that moniker of the scandalous widow over her head which we all now know is unjustified she isn't the man-eater he originally thought she is trapped in the pit of vipers.
I absolutely love Jack (I may have said that already) he is a good man, loyal to a fault, courageous, handsome and charismatic, and kind and generous, though I do think he judges a person too easily on falsehoods and gossip before actually meeting them.
Then again don't we all listen to gossip?
The budding romance between Jack and Eloise isn't an easy one, they are both dealing with their own guilt about their feelings; is it wrong to love your best friend's widow? Can she really allow another man close enough and learn the truth? But there is a real genuine sizzling chemistry between them, it's tantalizing both to the characters and to the reader even if at times I felt like screaming at them to open their eyes and stop being bloody stubborn!
But this isn't just a sweetly moving forbidden love story, oh no! there are foul deeds afoot Watson (hmmmm, me thinks I've been watching too much Sherlock Holmes, LOL!) in the form of a mysterious journal and a blackmailer which Eloise and Jack soon become entangled, though it was pretty evident the direction the story was heading in I was completely swept away ad transported to the glittery, and at times viperous Regency period.
Sarah Mallory's rich descriptions of the era and her clever narrative of the story are as always flawless, The Major and the Scandalous Widow is an exceptional regency love story, full of passion, loss, secrets, blackmail and conflict with two beautiful yet flawed characters who you will be rooting from the first page!
Highly recommended!
Quick note; The Major and the Scandalous Widow was previously published as Disgrace and Desire in 2010, personally, I think the new title and cover are far more fitting with the story!
Men in uniform are like my catnip, I can never get enough of them, a handsome, rugged, proud, loyal and scarred man in uniform … sigh!!
I blame growing up with Sharpe, my dad read the books (and then handed them to me, hence why I have a box full under my bed) and my mum loved the show - or Beany in that green jacket to be precise (the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree does it?😅!)
So on hearing that one of my favourite authors has written a book with a Napoleonic war hero you just know for certain that I am going to read it, and read it I did!
Ah, Jack - honestly doesn't take much to steel my heart!
I loved the opening of this, right at the heart of the battle of Waterloo, you instantly get a sense of the horror of the battle and the raw emotion. The unnatural stillness of death, the haunting feel of loss and the exhilaration of going into the fray. You are transported to the battle; a wash of acidic and claustrophobic smoke, battle cries, shouts and screams. It's a relatively small part of the book but I thought those first scenes are the most captivating and heartbreaking of the entire story, it's superbly written.!
So, bravo Sarah Mallory, Bravo!!
Jack is utterly devastated by the loss of his good friend; Lord Tony Allyngham, grief that keeps hold of Jack throughout; grief and guilt are a constant complex emotion for him. Before his death Tony made Jack promise him to return his ring to his wife; Eloise, back in England. Jack being the loyal friend and soldier that he is, does as asked, he would lay down his life for the man he not only calls sir, but like a brother!
Jack is not looking for any kind of entanglement, he's there to do a job, simple! He has no intention whatsoever of romance, (well that is what he keeps telling himself) besides the lovely widow is a walking scandal and reputed man-eater, or so he has been told!
No, get in drop off the ring and get out – just like any other battlefield skirmish!
A year later, when he is finally able to return to old Blighty Jack goes in search of Lady Eloise and soon realises that the lovely widow isn't the man-eater he has been led to believe that she has been labelled as such by the ton with the help of Eloise herself as a way to protect herself from the wolves howling at the door.
Being the gallant and protective officer that he is, Jack's hackles start rising as how the predators are circling, they can smell money like vultures on a fresh kill. Plus he doesn't like the injustice of how those around her have placed that moniker of the scandalous widow over her head which we all now know is unjustified she isn't the man-eater he originally thought she is trapped in the pit of vipers.
I absolutely love Jack (I may have said that already) he is a good man, loyal to a fault, courageous, handsome and charismatic, and kind and generous, though I do think he judges a person too easily on falsehoods and gossip before actually meeting them.
Then again don't we all listen to gossip?
The budding romance between Jack and Eloise isn't an easy one, they are both dealing with their own guilt about their feelings; is it wrong to love your best friend's widow? Can she really allow another man close enough and learn the truth? But there is a real genuine sizzling chemistry between them, it's tantalizing both to the characters and to the reader even if at times I felt like screaming at them to open their eyes and stop being bloody stubborn!
But this isn't just a sweetly moving forbidden love story, oh no! there are foul deeds afoot Watson (hmmmm, me thinks I've been watching too much Sherlock Holmes, LOL!) in the form of a mysterious journal and a blackmailer which Eloise and Jack soon become entangled, though it was pretty evident the direction the story was heading in I was completely swept away ad transported to the glittery, and at times viperous Regency period.
Sarah Mallory's rich descriptions of the era and her clever narrative of the story are as always flawless, The Major and the Scandalous Widow is an exceptional regency love story, full of passion, loss, secrets, blackmail and conflict with two beautiful yet flawed characters who you will be rooting from the first page!
Highly recommended!
Quick note; The Major and the Scandalous Widow was previously published as Disgrace and Desire in 2010, personally, I think the new title and cover are far more fitting with the story!
September 1, 2023
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review via the author.
Please note that this book was previously published as Disgrace and Desire in 2010.
I do love a story with a relationship with the battle of Waterloo, and this one starts with a military bang as it were. Our hero, Major Jack Clifton, survives the battle but his friend and colleague Lord Tony Allyngham does not (as an aside, his death reminded me of that of Sir William de Lancey with a dash of Lord Uxbridge's injuries). Now Jack has promised to return his ring and a locket to his wife Eloise along with important letters.
Eloise Allyngham, as we catch up with her a year later, has no idea that her late husband had entrusted precious objects to a friend. Still young and beautiful she has become a sought after woman in London society - as either another man's mistress or potential wealthy new wife. Uninterested in other men Eloise spends her time fulfilling her husband's charitable legacies along with their best friend and neighbour, Alex Mortimer, who many believe is her lover anyway.
After an initial chance meeting Jack sees what society sees a scandalous and faithless widow that many desire - including him. But Eloise has secrets that Jack could not have foreseen that affect more than just her. And Eloise with that first unexpected meeting with Jack feels a spark that has been missing from her life. But now she will also need Jack's help to prevent a terrible scandal.
There are serious secrets in this book along with military references, a blackmail plot, and a passionate spark between our hero and heroine. The aim of this book to show many forms of love as well as friendship and deep loyalty works really well. The blackmail subjects became reasonably clear to me early on as did the blackmailer but this did not detract from my enjoyment of the story as a whole.
I didn't particularly feel that Jack's former love added much though it did make sense along with Eloise's complex love life and the fact that his own home life and family was problematic. I liked that Alex and Eloise were determined to see the charity work through though I would have thought using Tony's house may have been the answer to her problems rather than a plot of land. Especially since she was determined initially to not remarry. And even if she did.
I also enjoyed the references to Vauxhall Gardens and the notorious dark paths were used to good nefarious intent. It also amused me to see a Parham House, a real place actually exists with the same name and has links to my own historical research funnily enough.
I really enjoyed this book, both the hero and heroine (despite their stubbornness!) as well as the supporting cast of friends and staff.
Please note that this book was previously published as Disgrace and Desire in 2010.
I do love a story with a relationship with the battle of Waterloo, and this one starts with a military bang as it were. Our hero, Major Jack Clifton, survives the battle but his friend and colleague Lord Tony Allyngham does not (as an aside, his death reminded me of that of Sir William de Lancey with a dash of Lord Uxbridge's injuries). Now Jack has promised to return his ring and a locket to his wife Eloise along with important letters.
Eloise Allyngham, as we catch up with her a year later, has no idea that her late husband had entrusted precious objects to a friend. Still young and beautiful she has become a sought after woman in London society - as either another man's mistress or potential wealthy new wife. Uninterested in other men Eloise spends her time fulfilling her husband's charitable legacies along with their best friend and neighbour, Alex Mortimer, who many believe is her lover anyway.
After an initial chance meeting Jack sees what society sees a scandalous and faithless widow that many desire - including him. But Eloise has secrets that Jack could not have foreseen that affect more than just her. And Eloise with that first unexpected meeting with Jack feels a spark that has been missing from her life. But now she will also need Jack's help to prevent a terrible scandal.
There are serious secrets in this book along with military references, a blackmail plot, and a passionate spark between our hero and heroine. The aim of this book to show many forms of love as well as friendship and deep loyalty works really well. The blackmail subjects became reasonably clear to me early on as did the blackmailer but this did not detract from my enjoyment of the story as a whole.
I didn't particularly feel that Jack's former love added much though it did make sense along with Eloise's complex love life and the fact that his own home life and family was problematic. I liked that Alex and Eloise were determined to see the charity work through though I would have thought using Tony's house may have been the answer to her problems rather than a plot of land. Especially since she was determined initially to not remarry. And even if she did.
I also enjoyed the references to Vauxhall Gardens and the notorious dark paths were used to good nefarious intent. It also amused me to see a Parham House, a real place actually exists with the same name and has links to my own historical research funnily enough.
I really enjoyed this book, both the hero and heroine (despite their stubbornness!) as well as the supporting cast of friends and staff.
October 6, 2023
Major Jack Clifton promises to bring the widow of his dying comrade at Waterloo, the personal effects her husband wants her to have. After a year, Jack is able to go to London and he finds the widow, Eloise Allyngham flirting at London gatherings, with her friend Alex by her side, acting as her guard-dog. Jack assumes the worst.
Eloise entered a bargain with Anthony Allyngham in order to protect his reputation. The only thing is, she completely forgot about herself, and so did her husband and his friend Alex.
I will be honest here - I could barely get through this book. With no other motive to 'protect' Anthony Allyngham than the secret you find out later on in the book, Eloise's actions make no sense. I think there was a decided lack of motive and therefore reasoning here. The story made Eloise look like a doormat, a martyr, a saint. In the end, she was even willing to marry a slimy blackmailer in order to keep protecting her dead husband's reputation, even though that meant she could not marry the love of her life, Major Jack Clifton. Who does this? Especially after all she had already given up?
I realize the author's forward explained that she wanted to write this book about Elle being loyal to a fault. And it was a fault in the entire story. A story that is driven merely by the blind loyalty to a friend or two, without those two friends thinking about what she is giving up to do so, was at times astonishing. In the end we understand what Anthony Allyngham meant when he told Jack Clifton that he wanted Eloise to be happy, but her being 'the poor relation' and feeling she had no other marital prospects, nor her loyalty to a couple of her friends, wasn't a good enough motive for what she gave up. Yes, we all know the laws in England at that time, but there were other options that Anthony and Alex had, and if they had cared as much about Eloise as she did about them, they would have never let her make the sacrifices she made.
Sorry, but I couldn't like this story, and I am usually a Sarah Mallory fan.
Eloise entered a bargain with Anthony Allyngham in order to protect his reputation. The only thing is, she completely forgot about herself, and so did her husband and his friend Alex.
I will be honest here - I could barely get through this book. With no other motive to 'protect' Anthony Allyngham than the secret you find out later on in the book, Eloise's actions make no sense. I think there was a decided lack of motive and therefore reasoning here. The story made Eloise look like a doormat, a martyr, a saint. In the end, she was even willing to marry a slimy blackmailer in order to keep protecting her dead husband's reputation, even though that meant she could not marry the love of her life, Major Jack Clifton. Who does this? Especially after all she had already given up?
I realize the author's forward explained that she wanted to write this book about Elle being loyal to a fault. And it was a fault in the entire story. A story that is driven merely by the blind loyalty to a friend or two, without those two friends thinking about what she is giving up to do so, was at times astonishing. In the end we understand what Anthony Allyngham meant when he told Jack Clifton that he wanted Eloise to be happy, but her being 'the poor relation' and feeling she had no other marital prospects, nor her loyalty to a couple of her friends, wasn't a good enough motive for what she gave up. Yes, we all know the laws in England at that time, but there were other options that Anthony and Alex had, and if they had cared as much about Eloise as she did about them, they would have never let her make the sacrifices she made.
Sorry, but I couldn't like this story, and I am usually a Sarah Mallory fan.
September 30, 2023
When I was a teenager I became fascinated by the Regency romances of Georgette Heyer and Barbara Cartland and this love for them has survived. It's still my favourite pastime on a rainy afternoon to escape to Georgian England and go back to a bygone time of grand salons and gossip ridden soireés.
The Major and the Scandalous Widow caught my attention from the start as we join the story just as Napoleon is defeated at the Battle of Waterloo and Major Jack Clifton's sad mission to return his dying friend's wedding ring to his widow. Eloise, Lady Allyngham has something of a lively reputation and having mourned her husband for a year she is now back in society which is where Jack Clifton tracks her down, however, the handsome major is unprepared for the attraction of this scandalous widow.
I raced through this book, entranced by the relationship between the widow and the major and completely at ease in the world they inhabit, be it in the grand salons at an evening ball, or sheltered by moonlight in a secluded garden, the regency world, with all its faults and foibles, is brought into sharp focus. Both central characters have their own fascination and I enjoyed discovering more about Eloise, she's a feisty heroine and more than a match for the dashing major whose sense of propriety is tempered only by his obligation to protect his friend's widow at all costs. Whilst there is the undeniable pull of romance there's also a deeper message embedded in the story, that of the unbreakable bonds of loyalty between lovers, friends and fallen comrades.
Charmingly sophisticated and with an undeniable sizzle of passion, The Major and the Scandalous Widow is another wonderful Regency romance from this talented author who brings the Regency world alive with all its glamour, intrigue and passion
The Major and the Scandalous Widow caught my attention from the start as we join the story just as Napoleon is defeated at the Battle of Waterloo and Major Jack Clifton's sad mission to return his dying friend's wedding ring to his widow. Eloise, Lady Allyngham has something of a lively reputation and having mourned her husband for a year she is now back in society which is where Jack Clifton tracks her down, however, the handsome major is unprepared for the attraction of this scandalous widow.
I raced through this book, entranced by the relationship between the widow and the major and completely at ease in the world they inhabit, be it in the grand salons at an evening ball, or sheltered by moonlight in a secluded garden, the regency world, with all its faults and foibles, is brought into sharp focus. Both central characters have their own fascination and I enjoyed discovering more about Eloise, she's a feisty heroine and more than a match for the dashing major whose sense of propriety is tempered only by his obligation to protect his friend's widow at all costs. Whilst there is the undeniable pull of romance there's also a deeper message embedded in the story, that of the unbreakable bonds of loyalty between lovers, friends and fallen comrades.
Charmingly sophisticated and with an undeniable sizzle of passion, The Major and the Scandalous Widow is another wonderful Regency romance from this talented author who brings the Regency world alive with all its glamour, intrigue and passion
July 29, 2013
Yet another generic, unoriginal story enlivened by Ms Mallory’s skillful writing but ruined irretrievably by the unfortunate consequences of a bad plotting decision.
As the battle of Waterloo swings in Wellington’s favour, Major Jack Clifton promises his dying friend Tony that he will take care of his widow Eloise. It takes a year or two for Clifton to return to England, where he finds Eloise is not only out of mourning but has earned herself the sobriquet of The Wanton Widow. Having discharged his obligation to return Tony’s ring and two letters, Clifton is all but ready to turn his back on the woman sullying his dead friend’s memory. However, all is not as it seems, and two mysteries unfold, one being the content of a private journal being used to blackmail Eloise, the other the identity of the blackmailer.
For reasons best known to herself, Ms Mallory chooses to telegraph the answers to these mysteries very early in the book. The consequences of this decision are dire.
Clifton is a brave, experienced soldier with a sixth sense for danger, always appearing out of nowhere when Eloise finds herself in trouble. He can read the thoughts and motivations of blackguards but seems totally unable to pick up on the glaring clues to the central mystery. These clues are so obvious that it’s a puzzle the rest of the gossipping ton hasn’t already put two and two together.
In short, when it comes to the central mystery of the book, Clifton proves himself to be a total dim-wit. Surely not what Ms Mallory intended.
As the battle of Waterloo swings in Wellington’s favour, Major Jack Clifton promises his dying friend Tony that he will take care of his widow Eloise. It takes a year or two for Clifton to return to England, where he finds Eloise is not only out of mourning but has earned herself the sobriquet of The Wanton Widow. Having discharged his obligation to return Tony’s ring and two letters, Clifton is all but ready to turn his back on the woman sullying his dead friend’s memory. However, all is not as it seems, and two mysteries unfold, one being the content of a private journal being used to blackmail Eloise, the other the identity of the blackmailer.
For reasons best known to herself, Ms Mallory chooses to telegraph the answers to these mysteries very early in the book. The consequences of this decision are dire.
Clifton is a brave, experienced soldier with a sixth sense for danger, always appearing out of nowhere when Eloise finds herself in trouble. He can read the thoughts and motivations of blackguards but seems totally unable to pick up on the glaring clues to the central mystery. These clues are so obvious that it’s a puzzle the rest of the gossipping ton hasn’t already put two and two together.
In short, when it comes to the central mystery of the book, Clifton proves himself to be a total dim-wit. Surely not what Ms Mallory intended.
January 17, 2015
If you're looking for a simple love story, then look no further, because that's what this is. Do I think it's a bad book? No, it was okay. Will I remember it for the rest of my days or reread it many times? No.
The characters were okay. The female heroine was not as docile as you would expect women to be in that age and she was pretty independent. The villains were that, just evil villains. They got some life and roundness to their characters later in the story, but it was still pretty black and white. Major Clifton was an attractive man, but sometimes blind to the obvious, but always willing to help.
The plot was, well, obvious, I felt pretty smart for figuring it out soon, but the end of the story wasn't much of a surprise. Is that bad? No, I guess it comes with the territory. All in all I had a good time reading this book and I might check out other books by this author.
The characters were okay. The female heroine was not as docile as you would expect women to be in that age and she was pretty independent. The villains were that, just evil villains. They got some life and roundness to their characters later in the story, but it was still pretty black and white. Major Clifton was an attractive man, but sometimes blind to the obvious, but always willing to help.
The plot was, well, obvious, I felt pretty smart for figuring it out soon, but the end of the story wasn't much of a surprise. Is that bad? No, I guess it comes with the territory. All in all I had a good time reading this book and I might check out other books by this author.
December 18, 2014
A pretty good book with good characters, interesting personalities, some suspense, a little action, loyalty, a little sarcasm, cynicism, and a good HEA. This was a good read and something for pretty much an anytime kinda book or something for passing the time. Most of the time I might have wanted to knock heads, but some of the other (side) characters I enjoyed. This was good and kept me interested, although I pretty much knew who it was, it was still a little creepy and I liked the ending they got coming to them. Overall a good read that kept me into the characters and their plight, although the 'secret' was a little astonishing, but not completely. I had a good time and enjoyed reading this, although it wouldn't be a go-to kinda book. Have fun.
June 7, 2011
This was a little boring as I guessed the 'secret' early on, as any modern reader would, so I am not sure why the author had to wait so long to finally explain it explicitly. That said, I got a little crush for Major Jack because he was so patient and ... well ... he was manly in a good way. The dialogue flowed in a natural way and there were little actual 'historical' terms and culture so this is an easy read for any beginner historical romance folks.
Characters 2 stars
Writing 3 stars
Hot scenes 2 stars
Characters 2 stars
Writing 3 stars
Hot scenes 2 stars
August 28, 2012
I did enjoy this one, although the secret was immediately obvious. Her chastity, the husband allowing her to go about in the company of another 'trusted' man, it all added up to an obvious conclusion. Still, I did enjoy the story line, and the heroine had a little more pluck than what I've come to expect from regency romance.
The characters were a delight to read, and the romance believable. I could have wished for better love making scenes, but meh, they were a little cliched. Another romance finished, and still my thirst for this genre is not yet slacked. Keep looking for more reviews.
The characters were a delight to read, and the romance believable. I could have wished for better love making scenes, but meh, they were a little cliched. Another romance finished, and still my thirst for this genre is not yet slacked. Keep looking for more reviews.
June 22, 2023
Really enjoyed this. Fast paced with great characters and some gay representation which is always good especially in a regency novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews