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A Devilish Element
"You are too shocked by this for me to believe you did away with him, but nor are you the man I supposed you to be..."
Remote Cedarton Castle is haunted, so say the rumours. When her former school friend marries the heir to the estate, Eliza Wakefield is provided the opportunity to determine the truth for herself as part of an ill-conceived house party consisting of a coterie of leeches, a body thief, and her former beau.
Mathematician, Jem Whistler is caught in an impossible situation. He's in love with a woman he can't have and owned by a lord who demands things he'd rather not give. There’s no way out without sacrificing everything he holds dear.
When an additional threat arises in the form of Cedarton's spectral white lady, Jem and Eliza must combine their wits and wisdom to uncover the malevolent forces haunting Cedarton’s shadowy halls, before mischief escalates to murder and their love burns out for good.
Readers of a delicate disposition beware! A Devilish Element weaves a tantalising tale of spicy gothic romance, mystery, and murder. A must-read for fans of creepy castles, quick-witted heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
Tropes:
Gothic Romance
Murder Mystery
LGBTQ+
Historical Fiction
Bluestocking heroine
Regency Romance
STEM
Bisexual representation
Remote Cedarton Castle is haunted, so say the rumours. When her former school friend marries the heir to the estate, Eliza Wakefield is provided the opportunity to determine the truth for herself as part of an ill-conceived house party consisting of a coterie of leeches, a body thief, and her former beau.
Mathematician, Jem Whistler is caught in an impossible situation. He's in love with a woman he can't have and owned by a lord who demands things he'd rather not give. There’s no way out without sacrificing everything he holds dear.
When an additional threat arises in the form of Cedarton's spectral white lady, Jem and Eliza must combine their wits and wisdom to uncover the malevolent forces haunting Cedarton’s shadowy halls, before mischief escalates to murder and their love burns out for good.
Readers of a delicate disposition beware! A Devilish Element weaves a tantalising tale of spicy gothic romance, mystery, and murder. A must-read for fans of creepy castles, quick-witted heroines, and sizzling chemistry.
Tropes:
Gothic Romance
Murder Mystery
LGBTQ+
Historical Fiction
Bluestocking heroine
Regency Romance
STEM
Bisexual representation
- GenresRegency Romance
ebook
Published May 30, 2024
5 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Madelynne Ellis
79 books403 followersMadelynne Ellis is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of over 50 erotic romance novels.
Madelynne lives in the UK, not far from the Welsh border with her partner, family, & assorted pets. She is currently sipping rapidly cooling decaf coffee, listening to loud music, & indulging her obsession for tattooed bad boys.
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Madelynne lives in the UK, not far from the Welsh border with her partner, family, & assorted pets. She is currently sipping rapidly cooling decaf coffee, listening to loud music, & indulging her obsession for tattooed bad boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 26, 2024
This is the first time I have read this author, and I did enjoy it and rate it 3.5* MM M/F. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Historical fiction with romance and mystery woven throughout. The first in the series of "Wooing the Wakefield's" is off to a good start. The main characters are well written with Eliza and Jem's physical attritions seen by all with some sex. There is a Gothic feel in the crumbling home with "the white lady" appearing. I can never again think of leeches the same again. Lord Linfield is written to have no redeeming qualities and is abusive sexually to Jem. I look forward to a book on Dr Bell as he did have some good lines.
This book did feel more like book 2 in a series as multiple characters are mentioned from previous encounters and story history which left me feeling a bit lost at times. The setting is Regency but has a very forward-thinking character in Eliza.
This book did feel more like book 2 in a series as multiple characters are mentioned from previous encounters and story history which left me feeling a bit lost at times. The setting is Regency but has a very forward-thinking character in Eliza.
June 14, 2024
Thanks to BookSirens for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion...
This is a new book by Madelynne Ellis that is listed as book 1 of a new series, Wooing the Wakefields, but there are references to characters from her previous books, in the Scandalous Seductions series (unfortunately not the ones I have read yet). Though the references exist, they did not detract from the storyline or enjoyment of the story.
This is not a typical historical romance - it is also is a gothic story with dark twisted relationships, secrets, conspiracies, set in an isolated location with hints of a haunting, and ultimately ends up being a murder mystery.
There is a quite an interesting cast of characters, and their various histories with each other come into play significantly.
Warning, this is a story that involves bisexuality, MM open door sex-scenes, and where sex/sexuality is exploited in a manipulative, exploitive manner, as a power ploy, so if this is a problem, be aware of this.
Eliza Wakefield, the FMC, is a bluestocking female who travels to Cedarton Castle to spend time with her newly married friend, the new Lady Linfield. There, she runs into another old acquaintance and friend, Jem Whistler, whom she had met the summer before, and they had struck romantic sparks that unfortunately went nowhere. Jem has a strong attraction and yearning for Eliza, but did not pursue things further as there was another man involved in their summer and he stepped back, thinking to give other man the chance to woo and wed Eliza, as he is not a good match for her, being poor with no prospects to support a wife. Also, he holds his attraction to men, as well as women, a deep, shameful secret and feels that when that comes to light, it would poison any relationship with Eliza.
Jem was hired by Linfield's father to tutor him and help him pass his exams. This is how Jem and Eliza connected - not just through their attraction, but their appreciation of each other's minds and interests. But when Jem gave up his growing relationship with Eliza, he fell into a rebound affair with Linfield, who is a debauched and spoiled hedonist who loves to race, wager, and live for pleasure, who prefers men. But because of worsening events and scandal, he was forced to wed by his father, and provide an heir. Wed he is, but has an unfortunate inability to rise to the occasion of producing an heir.
This is why he has whisked his new, unwanted bride off to the remote, ruined, and supposedly haunted Cedarton Castle, and is hosting a rather ad hoc, poorly planned house party, which includes his personal doctor and ex-lover, in the hopes that they can figure out a way to overcome his unfortunate aversion to women and help him impregnate his wife.
This is a dark, twisty story with secret passages, supposed hauntings, so many many secrets, dark humour, and morally gray characters, mixed with very interesting period medicine and science, that ends up a murder mystery, and an atypical romantic happily ever after.
This is *not* sunshine and roses, mixed in with elegant ballrooms, morning calls, and elegant rides in a phaeton in Hyde Park before stopping by Gunters for ices.
This has leeches.... literally leeches...
This is definitely NOT a classic historical romance. But that just made it all the more intriguing and interesting.
(PS) I forgot to add - the title? Clever, very clever play on words/science and the mechanism of murder (chef's kiss).
4.75 stars out of 5
(and while it was interesting - ugh... leeches are gross. Still used today... horribly in my own work... and I see their value... but ugh... gross, blood sucking parasites that give me the willies...)
This is a new book by Madelynne Ellis that is listed as book 1 of a new series, Wooing the Wakefields, but there are references to characters from her previous books, in the Scandalous Seductions series (unfortunately not the ones I have read yet). Though the references exist, they did not detract from the storyline or enjoyment of the story.
This is not a typical historical romance - it is also is a gothic story with dark twisted relationships, secrets, conspiracies, set in an isolated location with hints of a haunting, and ultimately ends up being a murder mystery.
There is a quite an interesting cast of characters, and their various histories with each other come into play significantly.
Warning, this is a story that involves bisexuality, MM open door sex-scenes, and where sex/sexuality is exploited in a manipulative, exploitive manner, as a power ploy, so if this is a problem, be aware of this.
Eliza Wakefield, the FMC, is a bluestocking female who travels to Cedarton Castle to spend time with her newly married friend, the new Lady Linfield. There, she runs into another old acquaintance and friend, Jem Whistler, whom she had met the summer before, and they had struck romantic sparks that unfortunately went nowhere. Jem has a strong attraction and yearning for Eliza, but did not pursue things further as there was another man involved in their summer and he stepped back, thinking to give other man the chance to woo and wed Eliza, as he is not a good match for her, being poor with no prospects to support a wife. Also, he holds his attraction to men, as well as women, a deep, shameful secret and feels that when that comes to light, it would poison any relationship with Eliza.
Jem was hired by Linfield's father to tutor him and help him pass his exams. This is how Jem and Eliza connected - not just through their attraction, but their appreciation of each other's minds and interests. But when Jem gave up his growing relationship with Eliza, he fell into a rebound affair with Linfield, who is a debauched and spoiled hedonist who loves to race, wager, and live for pleasure, who prefers men. But because of worsening events and scandal, he was forced to wed by his father, and provide an heir. Wed he is, but has an unfortunate inability to rise to the occasion of producing an heir.
This is why he has whisked his new, unwanted bride off to the remote, ruined, and supposedly haunted Cedarton Castle, and is hosting a rather ad hoc, poorly planned house party, which includes his personal doctor and ex-lover, in the hopes that they can figure out a way to overcome his unfortunate aversion to women and help him impregnate his wife.
This is a dark, twisty story with secret passages, supposed hauntings, so many many secrets, dark humour, and morally gray characters, mixed with very interesting period medicine and science, that ends up a murder mystery, and an atypical romantic happily ever after.
This is *not* sunshine and roses, mixed in with elegant ballrooms, morning calls, and elegant rides in a phaeton in Hyde Park before stopping by Gunters for ices.
This has leeches.... literally leeches...
This is definitely NOT a classic historical romance. But that just made it all the more intriguing and interesting.
(PS) I forgot to add - the title? Clever, very clever play on words/science and the mechanism of murder (chef's kiss).
4.75 stars out of 5
(and while it was interesting - ugh... leeches are gross. Still used today... horribly in my own work... and I see their value... but ugh... gross, blood sucking parasites that give me the willies...)
June 10, 2024
I loved everything in this book. This is my first book I’ve read from Madelynne and she definitely did not disappoint. I highly recommend this book.
May 30, 2024
Saucy, scientific Regency shenanigans abound as breath-of-fresh-air Eliza arrives at a forsaken castle to visit her friend and finds the man she has a tendre for in residence as one of the staff.
Murder, ghost stories and mayhem ensue after one of the residents meets a sticky end. Will Eliza work out what’s been happening or will the doomed environment be too much for even her?
This was a great read with plenty to keep my interest as I turned the pages wondering what would happen next.
Murder, ghost stories and mayhem ensue after one of the residents meets a sticky end. Will Eliza work out what’s been happening or will the doomed environment be too much for even her?
This was a great read with plenty to keep my interest as I turned the pages wondering what would happen next.
June 1, 2024
Ellis writes some of the best sex scenes around, and she is my go to author when I want to read a good sex scene with character and intimacy and connection and a god damn story. Every sex scene in this book gave me that, and it was satisfying, but honestly? I was expecting a lot more sex in this book than what was there, and I was a little disappointed that it felt rather light in that area given Ellis's other titles are generously plotted erotica-romance. This felt more like a tamer romance in comparison.
Still, this book was heck o' entertaining to read, and easy to get immersed in the world and plot. Perhaps aside from Ellis's skill in writing good sex is her equally (if not better skill) at writing her supporting cast. Ellis shines with her secondary characters and make no mistake, this book gives us a host of interesting characters who feel real, not just stereotypical shells I see so often in books these days. Doctor Bell is the obvious standout, and ngl, I was expecting some sort of intimacy between him and our lead heroine, Eliza. The chemistry was there and I was left wishing that had been explored more.
As for the leads, Eliza and Jem, I am a sucker for the whole 'old acquaintances that might have been something more under the right circumstances get a second chance and meet again in the right circumstances'. Both were fleshed out and felt believable, but I think Jem's anxiety and fears over being bisexual in a time period where that was considered morally corrupt was the icing on the cake. Ellis isn't afraid to make it clear her books are set in the past with some very outdated views present to fit the time period, and I appreciate that accuracy. While at times I thought Eliza was a little too modern thinking with too modern sensibilities, Jem made it a nice balance that kept Eliza from feeling like a woman out of her time. It's a tricky balance to write a character like Eliza as an anomaly in her time, and make me believe she is, and I appreciate that Ellis seems to have taken that into consideration in writing her. Her interactions with Bell and Jane also support this.
Jem is exactly what I love to see in a hero, or male lead these days. I'm a sucker for bookish nerds who are respectful and polite, over the boisterous, asshole rakes that have taken over the genre. It's nice to see an actual nice guy get the girl for once, and it's even nicer to see him struggle in a situation he has no control over, and is rather the victim. His relationship with Linfield was intriguing and awful, and holy hell, am I ever delighted that was explored and that Ellis went there. It was well worth the risk and gave the story and characters so many more layers to work with.
Overall, I would say this book gave me pretty much what I was looking for, though light in some areas that I was left wanting. Mainly the sex and the haunting. But where the book matters—characters and story, I was entertained and delighted and I cannot wait for another book!
Still, this book was heck o' entertaining to read, and easy to get immersed in the world and plot. Perhaps aside from Ellis's skill in writing good sex is her equally (if not better skill) at writing her supporting cast. Ellis shines with her secondary characters and make no mistake, this book gives us a host of interesting characters who feel real, not just stereotypical shells I see so often in books these days. Doctor Bell is the obvious standout, and ngl, I was expecting some sort of intimacy between him and our lead heroine, Eliza. The chemistry was there and I was left wishing that had been explored more.
As for the leads, Eliza and Jem, I am a sucker for the whole 'old acquaintances that might have been something more under the right circumstances get a second chance and meet again in the right circumstances'. Both were fleshed out and felt believable, but I think Jem's anxiety and fears over being bisexual in a time period where that was considered morally corrupt was the icing on the cake. Ellis isn't afraid to make it clear her books are set in the past with some very outdated views present to fit the time period, and I appreciate that accuracy. While at times I thought Eliza was a little too modern thinking with too modern sensibilities, Jem made it a nice balance that kept Eliza from feeling like a woman out of her time. It's a tricky balance to write a character like Eliza as an anomaly in her time, and make me believe she is, and I appreciate that Ellis seems to have taken that into consideration in writing her. Her interactions with Bell and Jane also support this.
Jem is exactly what I love to see in a hero, or male lead these days. I'm a sucker for bookish nerds who are respectful and polite, over the boisterous, asshole rakes that have taken over the genre. It's nice to see an actual nice guy get the girl for once, and it's even nicer to see him struggle in a situation he has no control over, and is rather the victim. His relationship with Linfield was intriguing and awful, and holy hell, am I ever delighted that was explored and that Ellis went there. It was well worth the risk and gave the story and characters so many more layers to work with.
Overall, I would say this book gave me pretty much what I was looking for, though light in some areas that I was left wanting. Mainly the sex and the haunting. But where the book matters—characters and story, I was entertained and delighted and I cannot wait for another book!
June 22, 2024
I enjoyed this story. It's a bit different from many of the historical mysteries I have read with the gothic element and some very complex relationships. So Eliza shows up at a decrepit castle to visit her newly married friend and discovers all is not we with the marriage especially after she meets her friend's pompous new husband. Then we find out the husband employs an old flame of Eliza's. Eliza's old flame seems to want to rekindle the relationship but for some reason he doesn't feel that he is able to pursue Eliza. At first the mystery consists of finding out about a ghost that has been seen walking the halls. Then things get complicated and spicy in many different variations. Eventually there is a murder and it's most important for all the players to find out who did the murder. I didn't think the culprit was that obvious but it ties up at the end. I will read other books in this series as it held my interest.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 7, 2024
4.2⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️& 2 🌶️🌶️.
I was kindly sent this ARC by the author to review. All opinions are honest and my own interpretation.
The story opens with a lot of intrigue. Cedarton castle has many a rumour to its existence, and early on you see hints of things at the corner of your eye. The language did take a little getting used to, as it’s written in a regency style of formal English and it therefore took me a little effort to understand fully in places. Some of the regency words for sex really had me chuckling though, but it’s nice to see some variant on the usual cringey words for genitals and bonking.
Eliza the FMC encounters an old flame, Jem while she is visiting her newly wed friend Jane at Cedarton. There is scandal and secrets all over with this lott, and you quickly get the impression that something big is going to happen with the characters.
There is an interesting humour throughout the writing that I enjoyed. It’s tastefully done and was enough to make me chuckle at times. I love that out of all the crazy goings on they drew the line at the tea being tainted. How very high society British of them. I absolutely hated Linfield for how he treats Jem. He’s such a manipulative master and always gets his way. His behaviour does border on SA though if you ask me… which might not sit right for some readers.
One criticism is that both the book itself and the chapters were rather long, taking me around 20 minutes to read in some cases. Not a major thing, I just prefer chapters to be within 10 minutes.
Around the 50% mark the plot gets even more vague with unanswered mystery. But, I will admit I did start to get a little bored. It did feel very long and drawn out, and you don’t start getting answers until well after 80%.
Unless I had misunderstood there was a tiny mistake at 77% page 316 where Jem states he made love to Eliza. They hadn’t ever reached that stage so this statement wasn’t true. Also, we still don’t have a concrete explanation for that ghost? How intriguing.
I was kindly sent this ARC by the author to review. All opinions are honest and my own interpretation.
The story opens with a lot of intrigue. Cedarton castle has many a rumour to its existence, and early on you see hints of things at the corner of your eye. The language did take a little getting used to, as it’s written in a regency style of formal English and it therefore took me a little effort to understand fully in places. Some of the regency words for sex really had me chuckling though, but it’s nice to see some variant on the usual cringey words for genitals and bonking.
Eliza the FMC encounters an old flame, Jem while she is visiting her newly wed friend Jane at Cedarton. There is scandal and secrets all over with this lott, and you quickly get the impression that something big is going to happen with the characters.
There is an interesting humour throughout the writing that I enjoyed. It’s tastefully done and was enough to make me chuckle at times. I love that out of all the crazy goings on they drew the line at the tea being tainted. How very high society British of them. I absolutely hated Linfield for how he treats Jem. He’s such a manipulative master and always gets his way. His behaviour does border on SA though if you ask me… which might not sit right for some readers.
One criticism is that both the book itself and the chapters were rather long, taking me around 20 minutes to read in some cases. Not a major thing, I just prefer chapters to be within 10 minutes.
Around the 50% mark the plot gets even more vague with unanswered mystery. But, I will admit I did start to get a little bored. It did feel very long and drawn out, and you don’t start getting answers until well after 80%.
Unless I had misunderstood there was a tiny mistake at 77% page 316 where Jem states he made love to Eliza. They hadn’t ever reached that stage so this statement wasn’t true. Also, we still don’t have a concrete explanation for that ghost? How intriguing.
June 14, 2024
-Gothic Romance
Bi-Rep
-Haunted Castle
-Forbidden romance
-Spicy
This was a different read and it stands out because of it's trope, it was intriguing. A Regency romance with suspense about Eliza and Jem.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bi-Rep
-Haunted Castle
-Forbidden romance
-Spicy
This was a different read and it stands out because of it's trope, it was intriguing. A Regency romance with suspense about Eliza and Jem.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 2, 2024
I enjoyed this intriguing read. A smart and engaging combination of romance and suspense fuels this book and that had me eager to keep those pages turning. The chemistry between Eliza and Jem was easy to feel and I found myself passionately rooting for them.
June 10, 2024
new to me author and also not the type of book I normally read. But this one caught me and it was really good. Don’t let it scare you off. Enjoy
August 22, 2024
Not your typical regency story.
This book borders in the dark spectrum of things, by having topics such as rape, sexual abuse, murder, and emotional abuse as the protagonists of the story.
There are few characters in the story and everything is happening at the same place. Each of the characters have their own secrets and passions which make the plot interesting, sinister and complicated at the same time.
Eliza Wakefield is visiting her best friend Jane, who just got married to the son of an Earl. Her friend’s sudden marriage and the circumstances around it is something that this bluestocking is determined to find out. The fact that they are now residing in a very secluded and faraway place in the countryside of Yorkshire and at a ruined castle is just an exciting bonus for Eliza.
Among the few guests at this strange country party is Jem Whistler and Eliza’s acquaintance from a past summer who she can’t hide her attraction to. Together will have the most gruesome moments until the end…..and well, some very steaming sexual encounters as well.
The book was engaging and full of suspense. I recommend reading it in one seat to stay captivated from the beginning to the end.
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book borders in the dark spectrum of things, by having topics such as rape, sexual abuse, murder, and emotional abuse as the protagonists of the story.
There are few characters in the story and everything is happening at the same place. Each of the characters have their own secrets and passions which make the plot interesting, sinister and complicated at the same time.
Eliza Wakefield is visiting her best friend Jane, who just got married to the son of an Earl. Her friend’s sudden marriage and the circumstances around it is something that this bluestocking is determined to find out. The fact that they are now residing in a very secluded and faraway place in the countryside of Yorkshire and at a ruined castle is just an exciting bonus for Eliza.
Among the few guests at this strange country party is Jem Whistler and Eliza’s acquaintance from a past summer who she can’t hide her attraction to. Together will have the most gruesome moments until the end…..and well, some very steaming sexual encounters as well.
The book was engaging and full of suspense. I recommend reading it in one seat to stay captivated from the beginning to the end.
I received an advance review copy from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 3, 2024
I loved this story and the fact that it takes place in the same world as the previous series. Loved the gothic vibes. I know this is a new series but I also secretly hope we will see Bella, Vaughan, and Lucerne at some stage. I could just read about them forever lol
June 6, 2024
✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC REVIEW
The Devilish Element - Madelynne Ellis
4/5⭐️
3.5/5🌶️
✨✨✨✨✨✨
This was definitely a bit of a different read for me but truly I absolutely fell in love with the writing! I quickly fell into this world with how amazing descriptive it was. Between the murder, all the ghost stories and so much betrayal this book with definitely takes you in a very mysterious ride! I found myself routing for Eliza and Jen very earlier on. The chemistry between the two so beautiful. There’s definitely a good amount of suspense and romance throughout. Overall I was super happy with this read and changing it up a bit!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- Gothic Romance
- Bisexual Lovers
- Forbidden Love
- Haunted Castle
- Mysterious Marriage
- Mysterious Murder
- Spicy Romance
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words.
✨Have you ever read a gothic romance? Have any recs?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc
ARC REVIEW
The Devilish Element - Madelynne Ellis
4/5⭐️
3.5/5🌶️
✨✨✨✨✨✨
This was definitely a bit of a different read for me but truly I absolutely fell in love with the writing! I quickly fell into this world with how amazing descriptive it was. Between the murder, all the ghost stories and so much betrayal this book with definitely takes you in a very mysterious ride! I found myself routing for Eliza and Jen very earlier on. The chemistry between the two so beautiful. There’s definitely a good amount of suspense and romance throughout. Overall I was super happy with this read and changing it up a bit!
📚📚📚
If you like to read:
- Gothic Romance
- Bisexual Lovers
- Forbidden Love
- Haunted Castle
- Mysterious Marriage
- Mysterious Murder
- Spicy Romance
… You should definitely check this out
📚📚📚
Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words.
✨Have you ever read a gothic romance? Have any recs?
#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc
May 27, 2024
Such fun! This Regency-era story has something for everyone. There is romance and other not-so-romantic liaisons. There are greedy and desperate people, all of whom want something from someone else in this dark and dreary household. This is sort of like a Sunday mystery on PBS, with more X-rated scenes. When one supremely unlikable character dies, we watch as the house of cards tumbles and the secrets are revealed. Our intelligent, tolerant heroine, Eliza, possesses medical and scientific knowledge women are not supposed to have. She is there to visit her friend, Jane, who has hastily married an earl's heir. She is delighted to discover Jem, a man she met earlier in the year, is also there, although his role in the household as "tutor" is somewhat vague. As with all good mysteries, there are many suspects. Jem and Eliza keep their heads about them and figure out what is going on. There are Gothic disasters galore. The whole thing is exceedingly funny, especially one scene near the beginning of the book. Oh, and there may be a ghost.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily and happily.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily and happily.
June 18, 2024
First book I read by this author, and it really caught me. A plot full of intriguing details and interesting characters with content full of drama, mysterious and fun situations, romance and passion, which kept me well entertained reading for long hours. I love these stories with conflictive content, that move in the gray area, and unusual characters and outcomes. The characters of Eliza Wakefield and James Whistler gave me pause for thought with so many difficulties, one struggling against the expectations of her gender while the other struggling to conform to them. Eliza, agile, inquisitive and open-minded, with strong self-control but passionate and ready for action, intrigued me from the beginning. Not at all what I expected when I read the blurb. Much better! Needless to say, I'm going for more books by the author. I voluntarily reviewed this copy I received from BookSirens
June 5, 2024
This story had betrayal, the worst kind of betrayal imo. Many people knew about it and helped the perpetrator conceal it. I found that reprehensible and saw no redemption for this person at all. I was thinking and hoping the author would allow that couple to both be victims of foul play, but I was denied justice there. Eliza also angered me with her superior act and try at being holier-than-thou with Jem. She was not so perfect herself that she could be so bold and pious. She had skeletons in her closet aplenty too. The conclusion reminded me of the phrase "if you can't beat them join them. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
June 15, 2024
very intriguing dark regency romance.liked both the main characters.Jem and Eliza meet again at Cedarton castle.Eliza comes to visit her friend Jane who is married to Lord Linfield.She wants to find out about her friends marriage and the reasons behind it.
Jem is Lord Linfields tutor and along with Linfield's physician Bell and some friends they have all been invited to Cedarton.
Jem got caught in Linfield's trap after trying to forget about Eliza.
They are both delighted to see each other again and the chemistry between them is explosive.There are things Jem doesn't want Eliza to know,he wants to tell her,but doesn't.The truth always comes out and when Eliza finds out she is heartbroken.
There is a lot going on at Cedarton,ghosts,accidents,fights,secrets,
dead bodies,murder,spice,drama,romance and there is a happily ever after.
I do not want to spoil anything so thats all i am going to say.
I recieved an advanced review copy for free via The Indie Pen PR and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Jem is Lord Linfields tutor and along with Linfield's physician Bell and some friends they have all been invited to Cedarton.
Jem got caught in Linfield's trap after trying to forget about Eliza.
They are both delighted to see each other again and the chemistry between them is explosive.There are things Jem doesn't want Eliza to know,he wants to tell her,but doesn't.The truth always comes out and when Eliza finds out she is heartbroken.
There is a lot going on at Cedarton,ghosts,accidents,fights,secrets,
dead bodies,murder,spice,drama,romance and there is a happily ever after.
I do not want to spoil anything so thats all i am going to say.
I recieved an advanced review copy for free via The Indie Pen PR and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2024
This story has something for just about everyone: an unwanted marriage, blackmail, threats, unexplained appearances, attempted murder, murder and the rekindle of a previous romantic interest between Eliza and Jem. There are surprises that occur throughout the story which adds to the mystery and not everyone is who they appear to be. I enjoyed the story and the development of Eliza and Jem’s romance along with all that is going on at Cedarton Castle.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and are voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2024
A mathematician forced into a unwanted relationship, a bluestocking, a loveless marriage and a ghost, what's is going on at Cedarton?
I'm a big fan of Madelynne' books especially the Scandalous Seduction series so you can imagine my delight at A Develish Element and upcoming Wooing the Wakefields series.
This book didn't disappoint. No spoilers from me. I urge you to read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
I'm a big fan of Madelynne' books especially the Scandalous Seduction series so you can imagine my delight at A Develish Element and upcoming Wooing the Wakefields series.
This book didn't disappoint. No spoilers from me. I urge you to read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
June 4, 2024
Secrets and Passages
Regency era romance with forbidden and supernatural indications such as this story merge into a mystery filed with eccentric and strong-minded characters. The connection between Jem and Eliza is electric but secrets could tear them apart as something sinister is going on in Cedarton Castle. This was an exciting and suspenseful story with historical context that was really enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Regency era romance with forbidden and supernatural indications such as this story merge into a mystery filed with eccentric and strong-minded characters. The connection between Jem and Eliza is electric but secrets could tear them apart as something sinister is going on in Cedarton Castle. This was an exciting and suspenseful story with historical context that was really enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
June 9, 2024
Received as an ARC.
💜 Dark Regency
💜 Gothic romance
💜 Suspense
💜 Bisexual main characters
So this was my first ever regency romance and I didn’t hate it, which honestly surprised me as I didn’t think that it would be my bag. The suspense element was really nicely done and kept me on my toes from start to finish. My only complaint is that this wasn’t written in first person POV, I always find a book written in first person a lot more engaging as a whole.
💜 Dark Regency
💜 Gothic romance
💜 Suspense
💜 Bisexual main characters
So this was my first ever regency romance and I didn’t hate it, which honestly surprised me as I didn’t think that it would be my bag. The suspense element was really nicely done and kept me on my toes from start to finish. My only complaint is that this wasn’t written in first person POV, I always find a book written in first person a lot more engaging as a whole.
June 12, 2024
Gothic dilapidated house of horror; Villains disguised as servants; accidental death or murder mystery? No one is as they seem and there are a myriad of plots within plots. Gothic mystery romance? I found the ubiquitous ambiguous sexuality confusing and distracting but the scientific fascination of a bygone era was interesting. I thank the author for an advance review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
June 23, 2024
I enjoyed the ghost mystery. The heroine was very intelligent and practical. I had trouble warming up to the hero. I wasn’t expecting a bisexual aspect to the character. I felt sorry for the heroine’s friend as she is is a marriage she doesn’t understand. The doctor is a little strange also. This just wasn’t my cup of tea, but the ghost parts I did find enjoyable. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
May 30, 2024A spicy gothic regency for those who love Crimson Peak and all things spooky. This book is very dear to my heart, and I hope you enjoy exploring Cedarton Castle and investigating it's mysteries as much as I enjoyed creating them.
You'll never guess what they do with the leeches...
You'll never guess what they do with the leeches...
June 2, 2024
A heroine that speaks her mind. A hero who has his heart. A question in need of answers and a love story full of the unpredictable. Ellis dares to tease the senses with an intriguing dance of the heart. A Devilish Element is a puzzle in need of an explanation. An enigma of the soul that makes it point without losing your attention.
June 2, 2024
I loved this book. This story grabbed me and took me away to another world in which I could lose myself for a few hours. This book moves along at a really great pace making for an easy read, has interesting characters that you will love and a story that will not disappoint. This book is a must read, you will not be sorry that you did.
June 8, 2024
Madelynne is a new to me author. I enjoyed this book. I haven’t read too many regency/gothic books,but I did enjoy it. I can’t wait for the rest of the series. I enjoyed how descriptive she was and the way Madelynne tells a story, it’s captivating. Sit back, buckle up and enjoy the mystery ride that is a Devilish Element!
June 10, 2024
This storyline was good some parts were hard for me to read but the author made it come together. This book has MF and MM in it so if it's not something that interests you please be aware. With that said the story that goes with it is truly beautiful of people falling in love when it's forbidden. This story had a mystery that feels like it needs to be solved. Tons of characters and suspicions.
July 1, 2024
A slightly different book from my usual historical romance with a bi sexual element. The author did not disappoint; I loved the mystery, intrigue, the chemistry between Jem and Eliza that that had me turning pages. My first book from this author and will check out her others for sure.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and submit my voluntary feedback.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and submit my voluntary feedback.
June 5, 2024
A different time
A full length and engaging story set in the Regency era. A murder mystery, steamy romance that is suspenseful, funny and thoroughly enjoyable. An interesting cast, including a ghost and a story full of twists.
Thank you to the author and The Indie Pen PR.
A full length and engaging story set in the Regency era. A murder mystery, steamy romance that is suspenseful, funny and thoroughly enjoyable. An interesting cast, including a ghost and a story full of twists.
Thank you to the author and The Indie Pen PR.
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