Her Wicked Proposal (The League of Rogues, #3) by Lauren Smith

Nov 04, 2015 Claire Robinson rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: shit-hot-series

5 - "Negotiating? Is that what they are calling it nowadays?" Stars!

Book three in The League of Rogues series gives us Cedric and Anne’s story. I have a huge soft spot for the cast of characters that Lauren Smith has created in this series, each and every book is better than its predecessor.

One thing that always strikes me when I read one of Lauren Smith’s Historical books is just how well her writing voice translates back to those times, and it really on the mark again with Her Wicked Proposal ...more

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Jul 25, 2017 Cheesecake rated it did not like it

Shelves: author-isnt-my-cup-of-tea, story-ultimately-disappointing, everyone-is-a-twit, evil-over-the-top-villain, story-cheesey-and-lame, hero-needs-to-man-up, sheesh-roll-my-eyes-idiocy, story-has-lame-action, ending-meh, writing-annoying-gaps-in-logic

Cedric and Anne and all the other interchangeable characters in 'the League' whatever the hell that is.
The league is never really explained except that it's a group of friends like...
the 'Little Rascals', 'He-Man Woman Haters Club'.
And why is Hugo Waverley dead set on murdering them all??? The death of his friend Peter was accidental so his crazed hatred makes no sense. I did not read the first two books (and I never will), so maybe it is explained there.

This is one of those series that reads ...more

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Oct 22, 2015 Carol Cork *Young at Heart Oldie* rated it really liked it

This is the third book in Lauren Smith’s League of Rogues series and I was delighted to find myself once more in the company of those handsome, wicked rogues… Godric, Lucien, Cedric, Charles, Ashton and newest member, Jonathan St. Laurent, Godric’s half-brother.

Cedric is finding it hard to come to terms with his blindness, not only physically but also emotionally. He can no longer do the things he once enjoyed – riding, shooting and hunting. A virtual recluse, Cedric has to rely on Ashton, the m ...more

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May 10, 2019 Sammy Loves Books rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: library-audio, scarred-hero, abducted, historical-romance, virgins-like-sex-too, man-whore

2.0 stars
Least favorite of this series. Was a bit of a chore to get through.

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Dec 27, 2015 Gilgamesha rated it liked it

I really enjoyed the first two books in the series...so I was really excited about this one...in retrospect the other books might have had the same flaws as this book but I enjoyed it nonetheless....this book failed to be coherent....there were too many irrelevant scenes from other characters POV in order to advance the series but was major detractors from this story....the romance was awkward and uncomfortable at times...the characters inner dialogues really never matched their characters....th ...more

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Jan 16, 2016 Elaine rated it it was amazing

This is a delightful historical adventurous romance with well established, complex characters, Set in the 1820s, this is the third book in the series but you don’t have to have read the others to enjoy escaping into this one - though you may well, like me, be tempted to read the earlier books after reading this one.

The story is told from multiple points of view, making it easy to relate to and empathise with the characters. There have been traumatic events in all their lives and danger lurks to ...more

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Mar 14, 2017 Karen Darling rated it it was ok

Shelves: imperfect-hero

This book is ridiculous. Spoiler alert. I hate the fact that the heroine was raped. I think that sometimes the author forgot that the hero is blind. After the heroine was beaten up and got a dislocated shoulder and lost her memory she was swimming like nothing ever happened.

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Jan 20, 2016 Anna rated it it was amazing

Home Run! Best Book In Rogue Series!

This was my third book in Lauren Smith's Rogue series. I knew when I read the first few pages that this one had the potential to be the best ...and it didn't disappoint.

Cedric, the Viscount Sheridan, is a member of the infamous League of Rogues. The League is a group of young lords who became best friends in college, and then created a loyal brotherhood of sorts afterwards. They became well-known for their Rogue activity, as well as other activities that were Home Run! Best Book In Rogue Series!

This was my third book in Lauren Smith's Rogue series. I knew when I read the first few pages that this one had the potential to be the best ...and it didn't disappoint.

Cedric, the Viscount Sheridan, is a member of the infamous League of Rogues. The League is a group of young lords who became best friends in college, and then created a loyal brotherhood of sorts afterwards. They became well-known for their Rogue activity, as well as other activities that were not always condoned by the ton. Different in personalities , but all good looking and athletic, they are appreciated by the ladies of the ton for their good looks, and both admired and envied by all for their loyal friendship. They stick together through thick and thin.

Cedric, the Viscount Sheridan, became blind at the end of book two after saving his sister, Horatia, from the League's common enemy, Sir Hugo Waverly. This third book of the series finds Lord Cedric Sheridan aloof and disconnected from society. He has been blind for almost five months and it has been extremely difficult for him. He is continually humiliated by his inability to navigate so much as a simple dinner party without spilling wine or breaking his host's crystal. He is tired of getting in and out of a coach, and risking falling in front of others- to his embarrassment, and he has problems traversing the uneven ground without stumbling- even with a cane. His blindness doesn't work well with eating and as a result, he has lost weight. Life as he knew it is over. Cedric has become a shell of the man he was and as a result, he has withdrawn from society.

Anne Chessley is the one woman that Cedric truly wanted but could never attain. She has lost her father to death and has inherited his profound wealth. But Anne's life becomes consumed by the hoards of fortune seekers crashing her gates to court her. She visits Cedric and proposes marriage. Cedric is stunned, and doesn't quite believe this good fortune could at last be smiling on him. He sees this as a way to finally get through the darkness and loneliness and grabs for it. But first, he makes Anne promise to behave wantonly - as a lover- when they make love. Unknown to Cedric, Anne has always loved Cedric - but has never let him know of her feelings, keeping them contained out of fear. It's the root of that fear that has forced her to keep Lord Sheridan at arm's length these past years. But with his coaxing and passion, Anne discovers in his warm kisses that Cedric may be able to break through her fears. His kisses stir her and she is suddenly aware of the heated needs he ignites something within her core, something that she felt could never happen for her.

Sir Hugo Waverly emerges again, determined to finally kill Cedric. This time he enlists another of Cedric's enemies and works out a vicious plan to kidnap and do deadly harm to both Cedric and his new bride.

The story between Anne and Cedric is warm, witty, passionate, and sensual. Lauren Smith writes some of the most passionate love scenes in the industry. These scenes can make you weep and curl your toes in the same breath.

Anne swallowed before replying. “Yes, quite dark.” “Good. I want you to close your eyes. I’m going to make love to you and I want you to feel it as I do, with sensations and sounds, but no sight.”

Lauren Smith doesn't leave her readers in the dark. She is sensitive to those who may not have read her first two books and makes sure that the story makes sense to all readers. It's done in such a way that all readers appreciate the update. And all of our favorite characters from the first two books--the Duke, Lucien, Lady Emily, Ashton, Charles, Jonathan, and Lady Horatia, all participate. It's Cedric's story, but the bond with all of these Rogues transcends the storyline.

Lauren Smith weaves this story of intrigue and romance in a way that has become her trademark. It is full of wonderful description- she brings her readers there, where they experience the story alongside the H and h. Cedric and Anne's love story was years in the making. And for them, it was complicated. When they found their chance to be together, they took it, both for different reasons. Their story has a level of passion and sensuality that is just breathtaking. The danger that their lives are placed in require that they are missed before the point of no return. The Rogues are separated and that help could come too late.

It's a well-written book. This is not only Cedric and Anne's love story. It's also the story of Jonathan's decision to become a true member of the League.

Her story had me from page one. I found myself thinking about it when I was doing other things --like working. I had to read more. I didn't really want it to end. Now that I have finished it, I realize I am only through another chapter in the lives of these Rogues and am anxious to read more. Please, let there be more!

Five of five stars for this impressive book. ...more

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Oct 18, 2018 Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" rated it did not like it

I AM RETURNING THIS E BOOK FOR A FULL REFUND!!! I DO NOT READ STORIES ABOUT A RAPE VICTIMS ESPECIALLY IF IT IS THE HEROINE!! AUTHORS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO SAY IN THERE SUMMARY THAT THERE IS RAPE INVOLVED!!! RAPE IS NOT ROMANTIC!!

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Nov 06, 2015 Seanna Yeager rated it it was amazing

"Be wicked with me, Anne." Her Wicked Proposal

First off, I have to confess I am a bit obsessed with this series. I love my League of Rogues, Lauren Smith may have created them, but I am claiming them as mine. Bring on the intrigue, complex plots, hot men (eye brow wiggle), and sassy women.

The Leagues story continues with Cedric and Anne story. Cedric is a broken man, he lost his sight after saving his sister from a fire. Before he was one of the ton's golden boys, now he avoids society and has b ...more

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Dec 13, 2017 Janett rated it really liked it

Shelves: adult-historical-romance, 2017-read

Her Wicked Proposal (The League of Rogues, #3) by Lauren Smith

4.0 ❤ in my throat stars!

Just when I think there is no possible way for Lauren Smith to pull, twist and completely wrench my heart strings she proves she can totally do it over and over again with “Her Wicked Proposal”, book #3 in her League of Rogues series.

For me, this book proved to be the most emotionally stirring and gripping tale thus far in the series. I shed some ugly crocodile tears on this one, I admit. The characters dealt with some pretty hard-hitting issues that stemmed from ...more

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May 11, 2016 Amy ~ Love At 1st Read rated it it was amazing

Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, was every bit a rogue. Women adored him. Now he has been left blind and has become a recluse, only spending time with his friends, the League of Rogues.
Anne Chessley, known as the ice maiden, was a challenge to Cedric before his accident. After deciding that Anne had no interest in him, Cedric ceased pursuing her. Now, a week after her father's death, Anne has asked Cedric to marry her in order to keep potential treasure seeking suitors away. Cedric agrees to the marr ...more

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Nov 08, 2015 Toula rated it it was amazing

This is a Regency Historical Romance . Book 3 in Lauren League of Rogues . This is Viscount Cedric Story and Ann. Lauren is so talented you think your there with the characters

Viscount Cedric goes blind at the End of Book 2. He was popular in the Ton. Especially with the ladies . Now a days he stays home . He relies on his other senses since his eyesight gave out . Cedric is outside in the backyard near a fountain . He had fallen on his way up. Cedric is reflecting how his life had changed . Wh ...more

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Mar 09, 2016 Jaci rated it it was amazing

This one is my favorite of the League of Rogues Series....Cedric was my favorite from the first...Now that he is blind he thinks his life is over, no more doing the things he loves to do. Riding horses, gambling, woman are all the activities that were his life. Before he lost his sight one of the young ladies that he lusted after and pursued was Anne Chessley, but she always pushed him away. Now Anne has a marriage proposal for Cedric. Her father has died and she is now an heiress and is being b ...more

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Jan 08, 2016 Rachel T rated it it was amazing

Shelves: freebie, netgalley, for-review, ebook, regency-romance, fiction, fave-author, funny, series, historical-romance

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

OH MY WORD … this series gets better and better! Lauren Smith .. girl … you knocked this one out of the park! :)

Her Wicked Proposal is the third book of Lauren Smith‘s “The League of Rogue” series. This series revolves around some feisty, rakish and most definite rogue gentlemen bad boys and their sassy kick ass lady loves. Set in England in the early 1800’s, all these layers makes for a wonderful, adventurous and at time straight up naughty historical romance.

Ce 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

OH MY WORD … this series gets better and better! Lauren Smith .. girl … you knocked this one out of the park! :)

Her Wicked Proposal is the third book of Lauren Smith‘s “The League of Rogue” series. This series revolves around some feisty, rakish and most definite rogue gentlemen bad boys and their sassy kick ass lady loves. Set in England in the early 1800’s, all these layers makes for a wonderful, adventurous and at time straight up naughty historical romance.

Cedric was once the golden boy/notorious rake of ton. He lived his life out loud and without a care. When he was blinded while trying to save his sister, all of that changed and he became quite the recluse. Having to learn how to live life with no eyesight, Cedric has lost that spark that made him so vibrant. The spark is still there a little however, and little does Cedric realize that it will be a cold block of ice that will set it ablaze.

Anne just so happens to be that block of ice. Outwardly, she presents herself as a cold and aloof woman. Inside, she is a whole lot of steamy woman. Having turned down Cedric’s advances prior to his accident, she now believes that he may be the answer to her prayers. Anne has come into a large inheritance and does not want the hassle of fortune hunters .. so she decides to propose marriage to a man that she believes will never be a bother her. Only there is one condition to this marriage .. Cedric wants Anne’s passion in bed chamber.

Off these two go! A smoldering romance blooms despite either of them truely believing love is possible. Anne makes Cedric believe that life can go on despite his blindness, and Cedric gets to the core of why Anne is so icy. Both their stories are heart shattering, and with danger lurking from the series villain Mr Jackass to the core Hugo, this makes for an exciting read.

This was absolutely my fave book of this series so far. I just gushed and fell in love with this couple. This book is told from multiple points of view which I loved. It also brings back the previous two books heroes/heroines and villains. I am in absolute love with the way Lauren writes historical romance. I see every little detail clearly in my mind, I feel every emotion meant to be felt, and even the villain is perfect as I hate everything about him too!

If you are looking for a humorous action pack, adventurous historical romance series .. this is it! I strongly recommend you read this series in order for the full impact. Get writing Lauren .. I am so excited for you next one! :)

HAPPY READING! :) ...more

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Dec 30, 2015 Cynthia rated it really liked it

Shelves: first-reads-arcs, retro-romance, romancer

3.5 stars;

"Be wicked with me, Anne."

Yay! Cedric and Anne’s story! This is book 3 of the series and you definitely don't need to read the other books to enjoy this one, but it does give you a better understanding of all the characters. The League of Rogues, I adore the lot of them. And with the hints of Cedric and Anne from the previous book, I knew this would be a good read.

Cedric recently lost his eye sight and is still trying to come to terms with it. After her father's death, the last thing A 3.5 stars;

"Be wicked with me, Anne."

Yay! Cedric and Anne’s story! This is book 3 of the series and you definitely don't need to read the other books to enjoy this one, but it does give you a better understanding of all the characters. The League of Rogues, I adore the lot of them. And with the hints of Cedric and Anne from the previous book, I knew this would be a good read.

Cedric recently lost his eye sight and is still trying to come to terms with it. After her father's death, the last thing Anne wants to deal with are fortune hunters. So she proposes to the once golden boy of ton now turned reclusive, a marriage that could benefit them both. It wasn't suppose to be about love, but with an attraction that can't be denied and a rake that's determined to seduce his wife, it's sparks all around!

Cedric and Anne are super cute together and are so good for each other. With their engagement, they help each other deal with their hung ups and struggles. Cedric is able to break down Anne's icy barriers (and we get to understand why she became an Ice Queen), while Anne helps Cedric feel like a man with a reason to live and love life to the fullest (and allows him to be his adorable rakish self again). I love that they both secretly not-so secretly had crushes on each other and it's adorable to see their love grow.

"As I reminded you this afternoon, Anne, I don't do proper. Now would you please give me your hand? I should like very much to hold it." He demanded this so gruffly she was torn between refusing him flat out and laughing at his audacity.

Oh, there is an overarching story. And this book deals with another by proxy-bad guy who's trying to destroy the lives of the The League (our heroes of the series). There's action and suspense, kidnappings and heroism. We get to see a lot of the rest of The League (and their stories). I'm guess the next book is about Ashton (and the lady he cannot stand, yaay!) and I'm really excited!

Overall, a lovely addition to the series. It's a sweet love story for two characters that are so easily lovable.

"You've ruined me for every other woman, Anne. I'm yours, always."

{* Thanks to Samhain Publishing and Netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Original review at Bookmunchies ...more

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Dec 13, 2015 Char Sowers rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fiction, historical-romance, romance, action, thriller, love-at-first-sight, series, friends-to-lovers, london-s-season, hostage

I adore Lauren Smith's Contemporary Romance novels, and now I'm kicking myself for not jumping in with both feet into her Historical Romances. "Her Wicked Proposal" is the third installment of the League of Rogues series. I've already snatched up the previous books up so I can catch up when time permits. Her Heroine is strong! Her Hero is Magnificent! Their character growth is through the roof! The Sex is scorchingly HOT! And the storyline is multi-layered, thrilling, and heart-racing!!! The sec I adore Lauren Smith's Contemporary Romance novels, and now I'm kicking myself for not jumping in with both feet into her Historical Romances. "Her Wicked Proposal" is the third installment of the League of Rogues series. I've already snatched up the previous books up so I can catch up when time permits. Her Heroine is strong! Her Hero is Magnificent! Their character growth is through the roof! The Sex is scorchingly HOT! And the storyline is multi-layered, thrilling, and heart-racing!!! The secondary characters of the League of Rogues and their wives are fantastic in that they, in their own ways - whether their novel is up next or not, have their own mini storylines. As Mr. Spock would say, "Fascinating." The servant secondary characters are also gems. One is wonderfully loyal to his own detriment. The other is a head-scratcher ... There are so many threads, so many wonderfully rich fabrics of Love and Romance, and sparkling embellishments of friends and family that this novel is an incredibly marvelous patchwork of a story. It's one of those things I do: take out the sex - is there still a romantic story - yes. In this case ... Take out the Romance is there still a story - yes! Lauren Smith's Historical Romances are going to be on my "Look For" list!
The romance between Cedric and Anne is both sweet and passionate, in "Her Wicked Proposal". Even though Cedric is blind, once Anne enters the picture he becomes a veritable scamp - a wonderful flirt and a scandalous rascal. Anne slowly thaws and embraces her inner vixen, becoming warm and playful. Lauren Smith not only deliciously sets up the couple for the next installment of the League of Rogues series but she also lays the psychological groundwork for what the single friends - who are watching their comrades - the men who they drank, gambled, and wenched with and are now settling down, marrying and starting families - are going through. "Her Wicked Proposal" has multiple Points of View - the main characters, villains, secondary characters all have at least a small say in the story. Lauren Smith has created an amazing and enjoyable Historical Romance and I look forward to catching up on this series!
To read the entire review please visit: http://bit.ly/1S0Fjzc

This novel was provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
...more

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Jan 18, 2016 Kim rated it really liked it

Shelves: historical

I went into this story blind without having read the preceding 2 books and I loved Anne and Cedric's story! The downside: I just added 2 more books to my ever growing TBR pile because now I need to go back and read the first two stories, not because I felt lost without having read them first but because I enjoyed this one so much that I want to know more about the first two couples!

Cedric is lost and lonely after being blinded in an accident, staying as close to home as possible to avoid the sni I went into this story blind without having read the preceding 2 books and I loved Anne and Cedric's story! The downside: I just added 2 more books to my ever growing TBR pile because now I need to go back and read the first two stories, not because I felt lost without having read them first but because I enjoyed this one so much that I want to know more about the first two couples!

Cedric is lost and lonely after being blinded in an accident, staying as close to home as possible to avoid the snide comments and potential for disaster with every raised cobblestone or unseen obstacle. He knows that he is viewed as damaged goods by society at large and although his friends do their best to keep him occupied, he doesn't want to be a burden.

When Anne shows up on his doorstep with her proposal, he is stunned and thrilled at the same time. She has always been the one woman who was able to capture and hold his attention no matter how many times he crashed and burned trying to win her over, so her proposition is a godsend to him. Although she has an ice maiden exterior, he senses the hellion who lies beneath the surface and vows to break down the walls she has built around her heart.

Anne recognizes a lonely kindred spirit in the new Cedric but longs for glimpses of the rogue who caught her eye years ago- and she is happy to see that man make an appearance from time to time as he regains some of his confidence around her. The other Rogues and their women welcome the changes Anne is bringing around in Cedric and are happy to welcome her into their circle as well. Just as things are looking up, the past comes back to haunt them in the form of an old enemy, and their love story takes a few dangerous and sometimes unexpected turns that had me flipping the pages to find out what would happen next.

All in all, I really enjoyed Her Wicked Proposal and definitely recommend it to any who love a good historical romance or a romantic suspense story in general regardless of the timeframe. It is filled with fun, passion, humor, and good friends as the author spins an engaging tale. And now I am off to go 1-click the previous stories! ...more

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Jan 26, 2016 Barbara Meyers rated it really liked it

You had me at “blind hero.” The minute I read the blurb, I ordered this book. What could be better than a rake used to living life on the edge and appreciating beautiful women losing his sight? In 1821, and especially to the hero, Cedric, it’s a fate almost worse than death. He doesn’t want to ask for help; doesn’t want to appear weak. But his life is so drastically changed by his blindness, he’s become a barely recognizable shell of his former dashing self.
Enter Anne. Cedric’s had the hots for You had me at “blind hero.” The minute I read the blurb, I ordered this book. What could be better than a rake used to living life on the edge and appreciating beautiful women losing his sight? In 1821, and especially to the hero, Cedric, it’s a fate almost worse than death. He doesn’t want to ask for help; doesn’t want to appear weak. But his life is so drastically changed by his blindness, he’s become a barely recognizable shell of his former dashing self.
Enter Anne. Cedric’s had the hots for her for years, but when she brushed him off and presented him with a cold shoulder, he gave up on her. Now she needs him to protect her from fortune hunters, though, and he needs someone to save him from himself, to maybe make his life worth living. So he agrees to her wicked proposal.
This unlikely pair present a challenge to each other and to the reader. Cedric hasn’t lost his seductive skills (thank God!) but Anne is afraid of losing herself completely by giving him his way with her. That cold shoulder was a front and the brush off had a good reason. Anne’s had the hots for Cedric all along! And she’s much more responsive to his well-practiced techniques than he ever thought she would be. It was such fun to see these two advance and retreat from each other.
I especially enjoyed the relationships with the other rogues. It’s not often that we’re treated to male friendships or see men bonded to one another in romance novels. I liked that even though these were tough guys, they also had soft underbellies that peeped out occasionally.
There’s a good plot here and the subtle threat of danger wove its way through the trail of happiness Cedric and Anne were slowly finding with each other.
I liked author Lauren Smith’s writing style and she reminded me of what I don’t care for in historical romance. She never weighs the reader down with a history lesson (thank you, Ms. Smith) and she doesn’t go overboard with descriptions of settings, furniture, clothing, etc. She gives her reader credit that they either have some idea of what the world was like in that era or that they’ll be able to figure it out.
I definitely look forward to reading more of this series.

...more

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Feb 02, 2016 Dee Deacon Foster rated it it was amazing

Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, lives in a dark world both literally and figuratively. It wasn’t always this way…he once had his sight and was a rogue amongst the ton. But in a split second his world changed forever aided by the hand of an evil foe.

Anne Chessley harbors a dark secret. A secret that has frozen her heart earning her the nickname – Ice Maiden. A secret that had her deciding she would never marry. Until the death of her father – leaving her a very wealthy heiress and the wolves are alrea ...more

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Nov 05, 2015 Nicole Laverdure rated it it was amazing

Totally loved this novel by Lauren Smith! 5 stars plus

OMG I have just finished reading, Her Wicked Proposal, what an excellent and captivating novel, written by Lauren Smith! This author is a high quality writer and I just love her books and her style of writing. Her series, The League of Rogues, is a must to read, if you love historical romances filled with passion, intrigue and adventure. She really pulled me again into Cedric and Anne's lovely story.

London 1821, since her father's death, Anne ...more

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Oct 13, 2016 Kelly The Sassy Book Lover rated it it was amazing

Shelves: my-all-time-favorites

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

After the last book, I couldn't wait to read this one and it didn't disappoint. This one kept me on the edge of my seat with everything that threatened them. I loved getting to hear the whole story behind the horses he won and how the league met. I really enjoyed how much the league has changed and I laugh at how they talk like the abduction was a normal thing for them to do. Just when I thought they were good her past came up and caused a figh ...more

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Jan 19, 2016 Jennifer rated it it was amazing

Her Wicked Proposal by Lauren Smith successfully continues with the loves and exploits of a band of Regency rakes. The third book in her League of Rogues series shares vulnerability on a physical and emotional level. An edgy and seductive hero's magnetism leaves no doubt as to why this author's smart and determined heroine submits to his allure. Between the smoldering sexual tension and nail biting suspense in this masterfully devised story readers will be hard pressed not to finish it in one si ...more

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Oct 26, 2015 Kelly | xoxo, Kelly Nina rated it really liked it

Shelves: england, books-for-review, historical-fiction

I LOVE this series! Fun, sexy, hilarious. The feisty heroines and the bromance...THE BROMANCE of the League keeps me coming back for more and more. Truly a fantastic historical romance series.

Full Review at Belle of the Literati ...more

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Jun 11, 2016 Amy rated it did not like it · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Feb 27, 2017 Issa rated it did not like it

Shelves: m-f, historical, library-checkout, z2017-challenge

Third book in series, first book I’ve read from this author. Blind hero, ice maiden heroine? I’m there. Now I’m wishing I hadn’t been.

Lord Cedric Sheridan has lost his sight. He’s withdrawn from society and months later is barely able to navigate his own home. His days are dull and filled with him just trying to stay upright when Anne Chessley arrives for a visit. Her father just died leaving her an heiress. To keep away from the fortune hunters, she asks Sheridan to marry her. He tried to court Third book in series, first book I’ve read from this author. Blind hero, ice maiden heroine? I’m there. Now I’m wishing I hadn’t been.

Lord Cedric Sheridan has lost his sight. He’s withdrawn from society and months later is barely able to navigate his own home. His days are dull and filled with him just trying to stay upright when Anne Chessley arrives for a visit. Her father just died leaving her an heiress. To keep away from the fortune hunters, she asks Sheridan to marry her. He tried to court her years earlier, called her the “Ice Queen” based on her failure to respond, but still wants her and agrees as long as she puts out willing in bed.

So there you go. There is so much that could be unpacked there. His blindness and all the emotions that go with that, her fear of society and why she put up such an untouchable front. But the narrative doesn’t care about any of that. It’s all about the nooky.

(view spoiler)[

Sheridan cannot think outside his own dark box. He’s a rake of the first over and misses bedding a woman. Anne is best hope. So it’s all about his wants. He touches her how he wants when he wants, even in public, and throws a tizzy when she doesn’t respond the way he wants when he wants. It does not matter that he embarrasses or humiliates her as long as he benefits sexually. There was a time I wondered if she’d get on her knees and blow him during a dinner party if he’d leave her alone for five freaking seconds. Let’s not forget that Anne is mourning. Her beloved father died only a week ago. And I could have forgiven all of that if we’d dug into more of Sheridan’s layers to find out it’s a defense mechanism due to his insecurities about being blind. But no, his actions are painted as normal, I mean he threatens to call off the wedding every time he doesn’t like her response, as if she’s the only one with problems, you know like not letting her sex kitten out. Or something.

Anne is just as confusing. She’s supposedly missing her father, a man she adored, but that gets a passing mention at best. And this ice queen thing, I saw nothing of it. She’s not cold or indifferent. Yes, she prefers to have agency over her own body and be shown respect, but that doesn’t make her cold. She’s also not a virgin, though for a good part of the story I wasn’t sure if she was seduced or raped, in her head it’s the same either way and that does make sense for that time. We’re also told she fears the fortune hunting suitors out there, but we have no evidence of her being pursued or courted. None. Much of this book is tell with no show.

Really, there is enough here with Anne and Sheridan for a really good book. But no, we need a villain. Meet Samir Al Zahrani, an Arabian merchant with a “soul blackened with greed”, in case you couldn’t tell by his slavery trade that he was a bad guy, introduced to the reader in a flashback story that took far too many pages to tell. He wants to get back at Sheridan for the loss of a couple horses. Helping Al Zahrani in his wickedness are two English spies who plan to double cross Al Zahrani to kill him and hopefully kill Anne and Sheridan at the same time because of something from Sheridan’s past. But Al Zahrani is also going to double cross, and really the whole thing is woefully overblown over the loss of two horses.

Anne and Sheridan marry, and after that the book goes downhill in a blaze of glory. Anne’s rapist sends Sheridan a revealing letter full of inaccuracies and innuendos and Sheridan throws Anne out of his house in anger. He would have beaten her if he could have and refuses, REFUSES to listen to her in any way. Anne runs meets Al Zahrani in the forest, and he hits her over the head in a botched kidnaping attempt.

Meanwhile, Sheridan is planning an annulment, but his friend shows up, miraculously knows everything about Anne’s rape, and shames Sheridan for his actions. As convenient as this set up is, Sheridan is properly shamed. But it matters not, Anne wakes up with AMNESIA, and he gets to woo her and bone her without ever uttering a word of apology for his behavior. In fact a few days after her attack, and even though she has not had her memory fully returned, she decides she must be in love with him and has sex. At some point it’s implied she gets part of her memory back, including the rape, but any trauma Anne might of been feeling from that, and Sheridan’s anger, is cured by the magic wang and a dance.

Then there is kidnaping, then the end, and I was just glad this thing was over. Did I mention he gets his sight back? Well of course he does, real “men” aren’t blind.

Absolutely no character development is given to Anne and Sheridan. There was no reason to have Anne raped. The rapist doesn’t get his due (he’s forgotten about completely), Anne is not traumatized, all it does if give Sheridan a reason to abuse her for not being a virgin. Sheridan’s blindness is also pointless as he gets his sight back and learned virtually nothing from it. I could go on and on about the things glimpsed at but never explored. And the sexy times didn’t make up for any of it.

In light of the missing opportunities between Anne and Sheridan, I resented all the time given over to other characters and other character POVs.
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Overall this was an infuriating read. I wanted deeply emotional book about a blind man that learns to live despite the injury, a woman betrayed, who clings to ice to keep moving and looks for safety with the safest man she knows, and a getting to know each other through their pain to the HEA. I’d even go for some kidnaping hijinks with all that. But this book had none of it. ...more

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Dec 08, 2015 Book Gannet rated it it was ok

Shelves: 2-star-review, regency-romance

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I think I was just in the wrong mood to read this book right now, because although it started off well I soon found myself all out of patience with a bunch of spoiled, egotistical men who have zero respect for women unless they’re related to them and/or married to one of the group. I know they’re rakes and rogues, but even Ash, who I thought was the most decent of the lot, has some really offensive thoughts and views about the one woman who dares to try defying him – even though I have my own do I think I was just in the wrong mood to read this book right now, because although it started off well I soon found myself all out of patience with a bunch of spoiled, egotistical men who have zero respect for women unless they’re related to them and/or married to one of the group. I know they’re rakes and rogues, but even Ash, who I thought was the most decent of the lot, has some really offensive thoughts and views about the one woman who dares to try defying him – even though I have my own doubts about how successful a woman would have been in such an endeavour at such a time. The way he treats her – or plans to treat her – is pretty offensive, but everyone laughs it off as suitably roguish.

And that’s another problem I had with this book – the way it drifts away from the main characters every so often to catch up with one of the other rogues. Some of the scenes are important to the plot (if a little far-fetched – Jonathon), but others are just boring and an excuse to put some sex in because the romance between the main characters is a little slow.

The main characters, ah, yes, them. I was really impressed with Cedric’s blindness at first, the way he’s struggling to adapt and the changes he’s going through because of it. However, once there was a throwaway remark about how the doctors couldn’t really account for it and that it might not be permanent, I sighed. Because it was obvious from that moment on where this story was going, and that definitely irritated me.

Then there was Anne, supposedly cold-hearted but not really, although she has a sexual assault in her past that would more than explain it. Which we really didn’t need to see in a flashback, by the way, especially as the flashback revealed all kinds of unlikely behaviours at Almacks of all places (at least I think it was). She should have had a female chaperon at least, not just her father, and the idea of Cedric even being in such a place when he was so against marriage didn’t fit, let alone what he gets up to (and what a romantic hero that showed him to be). The idea that no one noticed anything afterwards as well was just ridiculous – so she wasn’t even mussed or acting differently? No one saw or heard anything, even though it was a very busy evening? The more details that were added to the whole thing, the less sense it made. Instead of making me feel for Anne, the entire thing just had me scratching my head at the unlikeliness of the whole bloody thing.

On top of that we have a kidnap plot from a nefarious slave trader – which seems entirely to rely on the uselessness of household staff, since they’re all missing at the vital (and noisy) moment – and a ridiculous memory-loss accident that is conveniently forgotten about a few chapters later when it no longer serves the narrative purpose of removing any impediments to sex. Which just… what was the point?

Which is my main thought on finishing this book. What was the point to any of it? Anne’s rape and memory loss are flimsy plot devices that get forgotten about when they start to get in the way. Cedric’s blindness was again just a prop to make him change his ways enough to make an otherwise dull rake interesting, and even that was made good again with a nice bit of magic fixing. It was obvious from the start that they’d make a good couple, since Cedric had been interested in Anne for years and they had so much in common, but that would have been boring, wouldn’t it? So instead they need a far-fetched tale in which deep-rooted problems last only as long as they serve a purpose before being magically removed.

This could have been a really good romance between two wounded people getting to know each other through their grief and marriage, with a little help from their friends. If it had focused just on these two, I think I would have loved it because at times their romance is quite lovely. However it isn’t just about them and other things kept intruding in silly and unbelievable ways that all ends up with an exploding ship that just… I don’t even have the words for that. I had a few reservations about the first book in this series, but still enjoyed it on the whole. This time, nope, sorry, all the good was swept away. I like a silly historical every so often, but this wasn’t playful fun, it was just annoying.

Maybe I’m just extra grumpy right now, but I don’t think I’ll be reading any more from this series. To the relief of everyone, no doubt.

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.) ...more

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Jan 24, 2020 dumbells rated it did not like it

Ok i get now how this author operates. The heroines here are put through the wringer before they get they just deserts. Like some big cosmic penance before they can get their HEA, supposedly they got to prove their worthiness before they can get the wonderful loving family everyone dreams of. Yup. They are not enough to want it, they got to go through some heavy duty physical and emotional trial and tribulation before everyone in her circle can see her all happy and lovie-dovie with her man and Ok i get now how this author operates. The heroines here are put through the wringer before they get they just deserts. Like some big cosmic penance before they can get their HEA, supposedly they got to prove their worthiness before they can get the wonderful loving family everyone dreams of. Yup. They are not enough to want it, they got to go through some heavy duty physical and emotional trial and tribulation before everyone in her circle can see her all happy and lovie-dovie with her man and say 'After everything she’s been through I am glad they are finally getting all that love and babies now.' Yup, cuz that is how life works for these author's heroines at least. You squeeze all the bad you can possibly can before the very happy end, with a now cleansed by fire heroine and hero that groveled a bit to repent for his impulsive and harsh behavior as well (not enough groveling in my book) and then nothing bad whatsoever will happen to them no more going from now cuz the worst possible bad karma and miscommunication has been sorted out already. And I am glad I did not read these books in order cuz from the glimpses at the previous book the characters are mentioning I know that is what happened in previous book as well and I am just not into that kind of trial by ordeal.

The hero and heroine in this book also had a weird dynamic to them. Two seconds into the marriage the hero is calling the heroine 'my heart', like a lot. And then the next second it is shown she is not the angel of purity and that he does not know everything there is to her, he goes into total meltdown and doesn’t even hear her out. This happened before the marriage but in a bit smaller increments. Like the more their feelings intensify the more tumultuous his reactions become. He is a five year old boy that cannot handle any complex emotion and combusts at the slightest adulting challenge, yeah no. The blindness is not even much of the part of it, just this excuse he uses from time to time to justify his child like behavior. So annoying. Makes me as a reader not want to root for him or them as a couple.

I will not be going back for the middle part book of this series and gonna have to have a good hard think before picking up more reads for this author.
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Jan 16, 2016 Amy Alvis rated it it was amazing

This is book 3 in the League of Rogues series.

Anne Chessley is tired of all the fortune hunters coming to court her after her father's death. There is only one man who she thinks can help her, Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, who was once her suitor. She proposes a plan for them to marry freeing Anne from her unwanted suiters. But Cedric has a condition to his agreeing...

Having once thought to seduce Anne, but getting the cold treatment from her, Cedric is surprised at her offer. Ever since going blin This is book 3 in the League of Rogues series.

Anne Chessley is tired of all the fortune hunters coming to court her after her father's death. There is only one man who she thinks can help her, Cedric, Viscount Sheridan, who was once her suitor. She proposes a plan for them to marry freeing Anne from her unwanted suiters. But Cedric has a condition to his agreeing...

Having once thought to seduce Anne, but getting the cold treatment from her, Cedric is surprised at her offer. Ever since going blind, he has struggled with what he is going to do with his life. Not being able to do the previous things he enjoyed, Anne's offer opens the doors to some possibilities. His one condition is that when they are in bed, she has to drop her ice maiden persona and respond to him.

Can this marriage of convience turn into one of love?

LOVED this story!! I've thought from the beginning of this series that it would probably end up being in the top 5 of my all time favorite ones and this story just solidifies that feeling.

I loved Cedric. He thought his rakish days were over when he became blind, but he ended up just using his wiles on his wife instead. You know what they always say about a reformed rake...

Anne had been hurt in the past and because of this she put up a shield around her heart and became the "ice maiden" that the ton gossiped about. It didn't take long for Cedric to melt that ice and wedge himself into Anne's heart.

If you've read the other books in the series, the Rogues had to deal with their enemy again in this one. One of these day, he'll be taken care of. But until that point, he will be making trouble for the group.

Smith gave many leads as to who might be the hero of the next story, but I can't find anything online to indicate who it might be. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Whoever it is, I'll be just as excited to read it as I was the other books in the series!

Thanks go out to Samhain Publishing via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review. ...more

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Jan 20, 2016 Gwyn Plummer rated it it was amazing

Sexy and original not only describes the premise, but the hero. I adored Cedric! I wanted to be his eyes, and he grabbed a hold of my heart. His character was one of my all-time favorites, and reading about him and his struggles gave me a new perspective on life and the many things I take for granted. Although he often got frustrated, which was usually brought on by embarrassment, he had a catchy sense-of-humor, and his playful banter was so entertaining. Although, at first, I wasn’t sure how I ...more

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