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Lady Wicked
When the Ton's most infamous rake, Thomas Steynes, Viscount Savoury, is forced to retreat to his ancient, abandoned, family manor to redeem his wasted life, he comes upon a woman being tormented by village boys. Rushing to the rescue, he discovers his damsel in distress is instead the viper-tongued harpy who hates him more than anyone else on earth.
Cast aside by her violent husband, the last thing Davina, Lady Wyckham, needs is an irkingly handsome knight in tarnished armor hell bent to rescue her. After her brutal marriage, all she wants is to be left alone, to support herself raising herbs to sell to apothecaries. As if she weren't ruined enough, Savoury's attention can only bring more disaster.
Despite their intentions, true friendship and trust grow between them, and the attraction they had long denied begins to deepen. But behind their backs lurks a dark mystery that threatens them both. Only by uncovering and thwarting the sinister plot can they have a chance for survival and love.
Cast aside by her violent husband, the last thing Davina, Lady Wyckham, needs is an irkingly handsome knight in tarnished armor hell bent to rescue her. After her brutal marriage, all she wants is to be left alone, to support herself raising herbs to sell to apothecaries. As if she weren't ruined enough, Savoury's attention can only bring more disaster.
Despite their intentions, true friendship and trust grow between them, and the attraction they had long denied begins to deepen. But behind their backs lurks a dark mystery that threatens them both. Only by uncovering and thwarting the sinister plot can they have a chance for survival and love.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2011
26 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Delle Jacobs
22 books49 followersI write write write. Sometimes I travel. Then I write some more. And I have a great family who understand that I write write write.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 30, 2011
I am not a big fan of Regency romances, about the only thing that appeals to me from that time is the fashion. But I am a fan of Delle Jackobs and good deals, so as soon as she posted on her blog that this book is 99c I had to pick it up. However when I started reading it, I was hooked. And I was hooked not only because it was a good romance novel, but also because it satisfied my women studies cravings, in a romance novel!
The main character is cast away by her husband and wrongly accused of adultery, which at that time meant a complete and total ruin for the woman. Regardless of her being accused falsely or not, a woman during Regency could not even go to court to speak for herself. The husband on the other hand, has all the rights to divorce his wife and probably (have to check my books on that) keep her dowry. And if he gets accused of adultery, all he would get is a slap on the hands. But enough of the history lesson, lets just say women in England during this time did not even dream about gender equality becoming possible.
So Davina gets accused of adultery, but her desire to get away from her abusive husband is so strong that she happily accepts near starvation and the social stigma just to be free from him. Enter Viscount Savoury, who apparently had a thing for Davina before she got married but because this is a romance novel, there was a misunderstanding between them and they end up "hating" each other. One thing I love about Delle's books is that her characters always work out their misunderstandings, and not at the end of the book either. Lady Wicked is not an exception. Davina and Thomas figure out that hey, maybe they were wrong about each other and set out to figure out what to do about Davina's crazy husband.
The story flows amazingly, and the romance is very believable. I also love the secondary characters, good and "bad" (reformed) ones because they add to the general greatness of the story. Here Delle Jacobs also touches on another kind of discrimination, the one towards people with mental disabilities. My heart went out to Jimmy and his struggle to find work and just fit in the same way my heart went out to Davina and her struggle to survive under the stigma of adulteress.
Overall it is a great book and I recommend it to all Regency romances lovers as well as women studies AND romance lovers (like me). In this book you will get a great dose of romance in addition of subtle (and not so subtle) attention to the discriminations and injustices that women faced and some ways on how they got around them.
5 out of 5
P.S. I wanted to punch Viscount Savoury at the beginning for all his talk about hiding Davina away in his "castle" and protecting her from the world, and how inappropriate it was for a lady to walk, blah blah blah. This is the type of thinking that made it so hard for women to be equal with men then.
The main character is cast away by her husband and wrongly accused of adultery, which at that time meant a complete and total ruin for the woman. Regardless of her being accused falsely or not, a woman during Regency could not even go to court to speak for herself. The husband on the other hand, has all the rights to divorce his wife and probably (have to check my books on that) keep her dowry. And if he gets accused of adultery, all he would get is a slap on the hands. But enough of the history lesson, lets just say women in England during this time did not even dream about gender equality becoming possible.
So Davina gets accused of adultery, but her desire to get away from her abusive husband is so strong that she happily accepts near starvation and the social stigma just to be free from him. Enter Viscount Savoury, who apparently had a thing for Davina before she got married but because this is a romance novel, there was a misunderstanding between them and they end up "hating" each other. One thing I love about Delle's books is that her characters always work out their misunderstandings, and not at the end of the book either. Lady Wicked is not an exception. Davina and Thomas figure out that hey, maybe they were wrong about each other and set out to figure out what to do about Davina's crazy husband.
The story flows amazingly, and the romance is very believable. I also love the secondary characters, good and "bad" (reformed) ones because they add to the general greatness of the story. Here Delle Jacobs also touches on another kind of discrimination, the one towards people with mental disabilities. My heart went out to Jimmy and his struggle to find work and just fit in the same way my heart went out to Davina and her struggle to survive under the stigma of adulteress.
Overall it is a great book and I recommend it to all Regency romances lovers as well as women studies AND romance lovers (like me). In this book you will get a great dose of romance in addition of subtle (and not so subtle) attention to the discriminations and injustices that women faced and some ways on how they got around them.
5 out of 5
P.S. I wanted to punch Viscount Savoury at the beginning for all his talk about hiding Davina away in his "castle" and protecting her from the world, and how inappropriate it was for a lady to walk, blah blah blah. This is the type of thinking that made it so hard for women to be equal with men then.
June 16, 2017
I've read quite a few Delle Jacobs books, but have yet to find one that I loved as much as "His Majesty, the Prince of Toads". I did like this book, but it seemed kind of drawn out to me. I read this at night, before I went to bed, and it took me more than two weeks, which is unusual for me.
Thomas is "the Ton's most infamous rake", who's been wasting his life, and moves back to his family home to revitalize it. I guessed from his description that I'd have a hard time warming up to him, but it wasn't the case at all. He was charming, protective, sweet, and nice to almost everyone. Davina's reasons for being wary of men were quite valid, but it was hard to understand her hatred of Thomas. All the back-and-forth between them through the middle of the book made it drag a bit.
The last 20% got a lot more interesting, finding out about Davina's evil husband, then moving toward a satisfying ending for the characters.
Thomas is "the Ton's most infamous rake", who's been wasting his life, and moves back to his family home to revitalize it. I guessed from his description that I'd have a hard time warming up to him, but it wasn't the case at all. He was charming, protective, sweet, and nice to almost everyone. Davina's reasons for being wary of men were quite valid, but it was hard to understand her hatred of Thomas. All the back-and-forth between them through the middle of the book made it drag a bit.
The last 20% got a lot more interesting, finding out about Davina's evil husband, then moving toward a satisfying ending for the characters.
September 23, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I've read 2 by this author and so far have not been disappointed. Looking forward to my next by her.
August 28, 2011
Lady Wicked by Delle Jacobs is a fantastic historical romance that will pull you under it’s spell from the first page to the last. A spectacular tale, with wonderful characters, Jacob's novel is simply a ‘must read.’
Lord Savoury’s life has taken a drastic turn when he decides to return to his long abandoned home and begin a quiet life as a country gentleman. Yet he is completely shocked when he comes across children tormenting his nemesis Lady Davina Wyckham. Long ago, before her marriage, Savoury flirted with the young woman desiring her above all else. Her presence is an unwanted distractions and Savoury is at a loss to see why the Lady is within his reach when her husband is in London. It is soon revealed that Lady Wyckham has been accused of adultery and forced out of London in disgrace.
Lady Davina Wyckham is determined to make a decent life for herself. Her abusive and cruel husband discarded her with false charges of adultery after he concluded she could not provide him with an heir. While she is delighted to be free of her spouse, he is still working hard to make life difficult for her. She must now ask Lord Savoury for his help. Without it, she is lost, homeless and broke. Their past has left mutual disdain for one another, but they cannot deny the attraction they still feel. While Davina works for her freedom, horrible truths are revealed which will change everything. While they work together to unravel this great mystery, Davina still has to escape the evil clutches of her husband to reach her happily ever after.
A superb and wonderful story, Lady Wicked is the novel you won’t want to end. This novel is a new and original historical adventure with romance and intrigue. I still found myself surprised by many of the developments along the way. It will keep you on your toes wondering how this novel will conclude and how the evil villain will be defeated, if at all. It was a fantastic read that I could not read fast enough. Along the way were two compelling characters and a striking passion. This is a novel about regrets and misunderstanding, so the uncertain feelings between the characters allows for a dramatic buildup of passionate desire.
Then there is the hero! And oh what a hero he is! There is something absolutely special about Viscount Savoury (and what a name too). He is intelligent, stoic and handsome. He was such a kind and patient soul that you could easily see he was the perfect match for Lady Wyckham. His desire and passion for Davina was something to behold...it was breathtaking and dazzling. Davina was amazing as well. She was alone and isolated because of her cruel husband yet she refused to buckle under the pressure. Independence was constantly denied her no matter which way she turned, yet she fought relentlessly for such a goal. She was courage and determination personified. Delle Jacobs has an amazing talent for crafting characters that you care deeply and strongly about. You hang on every word they speak and every thought they have. Whatever these characters go through, you don’t just read about, you experience it to some degree as well.
This reads as a stand alone novel and one that concludes nicely and neatly. You also have a sharp cast of secondary characters to entertain you throughout the novel. They keep the novel moving swiftly when you are not engrossed with the stunning relationship growing between Davina and Savoury. This novel is filled with fun and humorous bits but it also compelling and dramatic. It is all the best components rolled into one.
Once you are finished with this novel, you will know with certainty, this is how historical romance should be written. There are simply not enough words in existence to describe how much I adored this novel. Elaborately and eloquently written, do not miss this release from Jacobs. If you want that emotionally captivating love story that makes you hold your breath and makes your heart flutter, read this novel. Now.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
Lord Savoury’s life has taken a drastic turn when he decides to return to his long abandoned home and begin a quiet life as a country gentleman. Yet he is completely shocked when he comes across children tormenting his nemesis Lady Davina Wyckham. Long ago, before her marriage, Savoury flirted with the young woman desiring her above all else. Her presence is an unwanted distractions and Savoury is at a loss to see why the Lady is within his reach when her husband is in London. It is soon revealed that Lady Wyckham has been accused of adultery and forced out of London in disgrace.
Lady Davina Wyckham is determined to make a decent life for herself. Her abusive and cruel husband discarded her with false charges of adultery after he concluded she could not provide him with an heir. While she is delighted to be free of her spouse, he is still working hard to make life difficult for her. She must now ask Lord Savoury for his help. Without it, she is lost, homeless and broke. Their past has left mutual disdain for one another, but they cannot deny the attraction they still feel. While Davina works for her freedom, horrible truths are revealed which will change everything. While they work together to unravel this great mystery, Davina still has to escape the evil clutches of her husband to reach her happily ever after.
A superb and wonderful story, Lady Wicked is the novel you won’t want to end. This novel is a new and original historical adventure with romance and intrigue. I still found myself surprised by many of the developments along the way. It will keep you on your toes wondering how this novel will conclude and how the evil villain will be defeated, if at all. It was a fantastic read that I could not read fast enough. Along the way were two compelling characters and a striking passion. This is a novel about regrets and misunderstanding, so the uncertain feelings between the characters allows for a dramatic buildup of passionate desire.
Then there is the hero! And oh what a hero he is! There is something absolutely special about Viscount Savoury (and what a name too). He is intelligent, stoic and handsome. He was such a kind and patient soul that you could easily see he was the perfect match for Lady Wyckham. His desire and passion for Davina was something to behold...it was breathtaking and dazzling. Davina was amazing as well. She was alone and isolated because of her cruel husband yet she refused to buckle under the pressure. Independence was constantly denied her no matter which way she turned, yet she fought relentlessly for such a goal. She was courage and determination personified. Delle Jacobs has an amazing talent for crafting characters that you care deeply and strongly about. You hang on every word they speak and every thought they have. Whatever these characters go through, you don’t just read about, you experience it to some degree as well.
This reads as a stand alone novel and one that concludes nicely and neatly. You also have a sharp cast of secondary characters to entertain you throughout the novel. They keep the novel moving swiftly when you are not engrossed with the stunning relationship growing between Davina and Savoury. This novel is filled with fun and humorous bits but it also compelling and dramatic. It is all the best components rolled into one.
Once you are finished with this novel, you will know with certainty, this is how historical romance should be written. There are simply not enough words in existence to describe how much I adored this novel. Elaborately and eloquently written, do not miss this release from Jacobs. If you want that emotionally captivating love story that makes you hold your breath and makes your heart flutter, read this novel. Now.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
October 16, 2014
I have read quite a few Delle Jacobs books. It has been a while so I can’t remember if the rest of them felt so drawn out. I really loved the character development. I loved the turn of events at the ending, but I felt like a lot of the middle could have been left out or summarized better. The parts with Chester were probably the most frustrating. I think the author was trying to get across the fear in Lady Wychham as a result of her abuse, but it didn’t come across the pages.
Lady Wyckham has been cast aside by her husband (whom it is immediately clear, is not likeable). She is actually cast aside in a village that is basically run by Lord Savoury who is her nemesis. Everyone in the villiage (including Lord Savoury) thinks that Lady Wyckham was caught in an affair and that is why she was cast aside. Davina (Lady Wyckham) is just glad to be on her own. She plans to grow her own herbs to sell and make a living. The rest of the story follows the relationship between Savoury and Davina and how the villagers change their opinion about her. There is a nice twist at the end, but in my opinion it took too long to get there.
For more book suggestions, visit my blog: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
Lady Wyckham has been cast aside by her husband (whom it is immediately clear, is not likeable). She is actually cast aside in a village that is basically run by Lord Savoury who is her nemesis. Everyone in the villiage (including Lord Savoury) thinks that Lady Wyckham was caught in an affair and that is why she was cast aside. Davina (Lady Wyckham) is just glad to be on her own. She plans to grow her own herbs to sell and make a living. The rest of the story follows the relationship between Savoury and Davina and how the villagers change their opinion about her. There is a nice twist at the end, but in my opinion it took too long to get there.
For more book suggestions, visit my blog: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
March 27, 2011
I adored everything about this book. Delle Jacobs writing style is so elegant, and her story-telling masterful. She's created a truly memorable pair in Lady Wyckham (Davina) and Thomas Steynes, Viscount Savoury.
LADY WICKED, with its married heroine cast off by a violent, dastardly husband, is not your typical Regency read. It was wonderful to watch the fiercely independent Davina win over the villagers who'd branded her "Lady Wicked", and just as wonderful to see Savoury grow into his responsibility as Lord of the crumbling manor. Best of all, I loved seeing them come to love each other so deeply, neither could permit the other to sacrifice their respective dreams.
Highly recommended!
LADY WICKED, with its married heroine cast off by a violent, dastardly husband, is not your typical Regency read. It was wonderful to watch the fiercely independent Davina win over the villagers who'd branded her "Lady Wicked", and just as wonderful to see Savoury grow into his responsibility as Lord of the crumbling manor. Best of all, I loved seeing them come to love each other so deeply, neither could permit the other to sacrifice their respective dreams.
Highly recommended!
May 30, 2012
Likeable characters and an interesting plot made this story completely enjoyable to me. The main characters grew as the story progressed and they didn't really do those things that tend to annoy in typical romances (secret keeping, doing things behind the other's back, etc), at least not for long. Lovers of historical fiction will enjoy.
January 2, 2013
I was privileged to read the first few chapters and I can't wait to read more. This is vintage Delle Jacobs with spice! Move over TOAD, WICKED is here to stay!
September 25, 2013
A very enjoyable read!
November 6, 2013
It's a great story, fantastic heroine, and continually surprising. The setting is also very well done. If you read romances of any kind you'll enjoy this one.
February 1, 2014
Surprisingly engaging. I enjoyed this story, and the characters much more than I was expecting.
March 10, 2015
I am one who likes clean romances and this one was disappointingly full of sex. I enjoyed the setting and plot but not the sex. It ruined the book for me.
October 15, 2016
Three and a half stars, really. Some editing errors were a distraction.
September 5, 2011
I've enjoyed a couple of Jacobs other books, but this one was beyond lame!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews