Cocky Viscount

Regency Cocky Gents #4

by Annabelle Anders

What happens when a lady breaks the rules?

Felicity Brightley is the most genteel of ladies. Raised to marry the Earl of Westerley, she’s never failed to follow the dictates of society. Doing so, she’d been promised, ensured lifelong security and happiness. When her future is shattered, however, she decides it’s time she tests those rules—perhaps make up a few of her own.

Viscount Manningham-Tissinton (Mantis) isn’t looking for a wife—especially not a lady considered a diamond of the first water. So when he stumbles upon Felicity, devastated by the betrayal at the hands of one of Manti’s closest friends, he takes it upon himself to comfort her. With a single kiss, and then another—until a storm of passion ignites between them—a storm that threatens to land them both in scandal.

Because breaking the rules comes with a price. Will that price be a lifetime of regret, or is it fate’s serendipitous design for their happily ever after?

Only one way to find out...

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Regency, Amazon, Regency Romance, Historical Fiction

328 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 27, 2021

About the author

Married to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.

After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car. 

At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.

And then the energy market dropped off.

And then my dog died.

I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.

Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!

To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!

www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...

Reviews

[🐝 Shaz 🐝 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very interesting story.
Felicity and Axel’s story.
Jilted fiancé, ✔️new lover, ✔️baby, 😱attempted murder.✔️

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story, I found it difficult to put down. I just loved the character of Axel, physically he was tall and broad but he had a very caring manner. His life hadn’t been easy but it seemed to make him stronger in character. How I felt for Felicity, no one other than Axel and her friend, Bethany, seemed to have regard for her feelings. As for Axel’s father, I just couldn’t understand the man, luckily Axel had some very good friends. Their banter did make me smile. Felicity’s father was also rather self centred and lacking in understanding. I found Axel and Felicity’s relationship to be very engaging, there is a mystery to be solved as well, this always adds interest for me. I’m looking forward to the next in the series. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tina Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another in the Cocky Series. This one focuses on Felicity, who had been jilted in book 1 by Lord Westerly, and one of Westerly’s best friends, Mantis.
This book had more steamy scenes in it than book 1 did. In fact it starts off with a bang, so to speak.
A charming historical romance, which results in an HEA. This also has a bit of a mystery in it which was fun.
Since the books often mention common events, but from a different characters POV you can easily read them together or as a standalone.
A quick, light read.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

Mantis and Felicity, what can I say, Perfect is the only word that comes to mind.
Absolutely Perfect.

Annabelle’s Cocky Viscount is a beautiful man, humble, loving, passionate, thoughtful, and he just ticks all the boxes.
Felicity is strong in the face of adversity, she’s adorable and she’s beautiful.

Mantis and her come across a few challenges to their love and relationship, but with the help and support of the other friends in the series they get their HEA.

I loved this book, in fact the whole series has been so enjoyable and entertaining to read.
Keep writing these spectacular books Annabelle and I’ll keep reading them, not a bad one in the bunch.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cocky Viscount is the fourth book in the Regency Cocky Gents series, and it’s another addictive addition to the series. Once again, Annabelle Anders gave a story that hooked me right away and had me devouring the story in a single sitting.

With plenty packed into the story, I could not get enough of the way things played out. I’ll be honest and say it’s not my favourite book in the series, but that did not take away from my enjoyment of this one. I adored the characters and the way their story developed, was hooked on watching how things progressed, and had such fun with everything that unfolded. Although I worked out how things were going to come together in the end, it did not lessen my enjoyment at all.

Without a doubt, a must-read for fans of the series. Once again, I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

[ayiruh · Rating 2 out of 5]

I hated every single secondary character of this book. Mantis is lovely and so is Felicity.

BUT GOD HELP ME THE EX IS DISGUSTING, i hate him. he has an entire book? there are literally no excuses, he WAS BETROTHED. the least honorable man to ever exist. then his sisters absolutely nasty. one is, immediately after the wedding, all like my brother is besotted with his new fiancé and the other sister is like are you still pining after him. pathetic shits. the worst historical family and believe me i have read tons and tons.

but felicity and axel were so so sweet to one another and everyone else, just deserve happiness and get it

[Lorrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is turning out to be a great series. Each one is a stand-alone read but this author brings the characters in from previous books in the series so I would recommend you start at the beginning. If not, that's fine too because she has a knack for refreshing your memory who is who along the way.

Loved Mantis from the start. A heart as big as his body frame, a man who has admired Felicity from afar but never considered her since she was promised to his friend. But now that his friend was marrying someone else, this certainly placed Felicity back on the marriage mart. He watched her as her ex-fiancé proposed to another and knew it was affecting her even though she was holding up a good front. When she quickly quit the ballroom he needed to follow to be sure she was fine. It was this moment that would change his life forever.

Felicity stood by, smiling applicably, as her fiancé got on his knee and proposed to another woman. In front of the entire attendance at the ball. She was fine. She just needed a moment alone to release her emotions. Sadly, her trek outdoors in the garden had her trapped among a rose bush full of thorns. She was stuck. Mantis arrived in the knick of time to carefully remove her and her torn dress from the bush. Her mind spiraled leading her to act upon her emotions.... a course that would change her life.

Great story!! Loved it!! I was gifted with an ARC but I always leave an honest review and trust me, you'll love this story too.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just to be truthful, I don’t write really great reviews. If I like or love a book; I would just say “Love this book. You need to get it” or something like that. I am trying to be better.

I read 415 books last year and at 138 so far this year. I have read 27 of Annabelle Anders books since 2018 and have loved them all. She is such a great writer. She is truly one of my favorite authors.

I loved this book. Actually, I couldn't put it down. This whole series is so great. I just loved Felicity and Mantis. I couldn't wait to see where this story was going. I don't read story synopsis' anymore because if it's an author I love, I'm going to read the book anyway. I find I am more surprised at the storyline. With this one, I made me feel like sometimes things work out the way they were supposed to. I love how these two interacted with each other. I loved their story and their personalities.

You can never go wrong by picking up any of Annabelle's books but be prepared…you will love them so much you will buy every book she has.

[Gigi’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite in the series so far! Totally loved Axel and Felicity’s love story. They are just the sweetest yet sexiest couple. Of course there is someone who wants one or all of them dead and so they have to sort through who is behind the attempts. In the end you get the hea and 2 epilogues! Totally recommend and at least 3 sizzling scenes! I received an arc of this book and chose to post my review.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Felicity is a very proper lady until her intended jiults her to marry an American heiress.
Mantis never intended to marry until passion overtakes his senses and Felicity is the lady he takes.
This is a great book. With an amazing storyline and characters it's unforgettable. Attempted murder and lunacy make up this tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Felicity and Mantis. Great characters and the storyline was brilliant. Fantastic series so far (rated 5☆ on books 1 to 4) I absolutely adored this story. 5☆

[Virginpat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Avec du suspense

[SusieQ_Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A touching story about embarking on a new destiny via the consequences of letting emotions take over after your heart is shattered. I loved watching how the relationship between Axel and Felicity grew into that un-explainable thing that found them drawing strength and comfort from each other, even before fully realizing it. I must admit I am a little bit in love with Lord Manningham-Tissenton. Here we have a man of quiet strength and sense of duty without being overly arrogant or pushy about it. Who truly has a heart of gold and doesn’t think twice about protecting those he cares for. A man still hoping for acceptance from his sorry excuse of a father, who by the way had this reader wanting to jump into the pages in order to give that man a good slap upside the head on behalf of her beloved…Oops…I meant Felicity’s beloved (sheepish grin). The well-deserved HEA of this story will have you believing that sometimes things do really happen for a reason…..

[Balthazor · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was not my favorite book in the series. it did not capture me like cocky mister and cocky brother. Cocky brother made me cry.
I dont know if it is a mistanke or not But in cocky brother Mantis have a Black eye. The hero claims it was the felicity who hit him.

“This wasn’t from your brother.” Mantis dabbed tenderly at the skin around his eye. Compliments of Lady Felicity,” Greys supplied. “ called on her to ask if Lady Tabetha had confided her plans to her and before I could open my mouth, she did this,” Mantis admitted, more than a little disgruntled.”
From
Cocky Brother
Annabelle Anders

In cocky viscount Mantis gets a black eye in a fight. No mention of the other reason. While reading I was waiting to discover why the heroine felt the need to hit the hero but it never came. That ruined the read for me.
The love story was fine.I like the” supporting your woman” hero type that the author writes. Axel the hero had a terrible childhood but is kind and listen to the heroine. I liked Felicity and how she fell in love with the hero.
I hope there will be a book with the heroes sister.
It would have gotten 1 more star if I did not get irritated about the discrepancy in the black eye storyline, even though it a small part of the plot.

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 5 out of 5]

🥀 Cocky Viscount 🥀
Regency Cocky Gents Series #5
✒️ Annabelle Anders
https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
Release Date 04/27/2021
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LVPG4GX

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

What happens when a lady breaks the rules?

Felicity Brightley is the most genteel of ladies. Raised to marry the Earl of Westerley, she’s never failed to follow the dictates of society. Doing so, she’d been promised, ensured lifelong security and happiness. When her future is shattered, however, she decides it’s time she tests those rules—perhaps make up a few of her own.
Viscount Manningham-Tissinton (Mantis) isn’t looking for a wife—especially not a lady considered a diamond of the first water. So when he stumbles upon Felicity, devastated by the betrayal at the hands of one of Manti’s closest friends, he takes it upon himself to comfort her. With a single kiss, and then another—until a storm of passion ignites between them—a storm that threatens to land them both in scandal.
Because breaking the rules comes with a price. Will that price be a lifetime of regret, or is it fate’s serendipitous design for their happily ever after?
Only one way to find out…

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will their moment of abandon be their gain or their loss ...

I just adore this series because with each new book, you come across details, informations or events which occurred in the previous books but from someone else point of view, as many of the stories share the same timeline.

I remember Felicity from the first book, always prim and proper, like she felt nothing. So the opening scene was quite devastating to realize how much of her feelings she had kept hidden, how much she had been shredded in the inside by her failed betrothal.
Yet I wondered if she did love him because of him and her or if she just felt compiled to love him because he was her family chosen betrothed, her pain of course was real, but was she hurt for her lost love or did she mourn what should have been.
So in a moment of abandon, she throws all her well behaved caution to the window to feel, really feel for the first time deep sensations.
Axel is a giant with a velvet hand, he is kind and caring, the opposite of his appearance. But it has been for so long imbedded in him he is lacking, that he doubts himself.
Yet despite the constant bullying, he learned to better himself, he found a way to improve his failing. Still he is also the little boy who long to see pride in his father’s eyes, so in spite of everything, he does not find in himself to hate his sire. He is such a forgiving fellow.
The problem is not that Axel is not good enough, he is much too good for most people, but outside his close circle of friends and Felicity, near no one does acknowledge it.

Their courting is one which began at the end, so they have to go backward to learn about the other, to get to know the true person behind the mask. A wonderful story of finding love in the most unexpected way but a love that will last because it endured.

Once more the author gifts us with an intensely moving, deliciously fast-moving and sensual read.
5 stars

I can’t wait for the two last books in this series, but I also long to see if some of the characters introduced along the pages will get their own stories.

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes

I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...

[Shawna Z · Rating 3 out of 5]

🌶️ Another meh… maybe I’m getting a bit of a burnout by binge reading, but I thought Mantis’s story would be somehow more romantic?

The story begins back at book one’s scene of Westerley’s proposal to Charley Jackson, the American daughter of a whiskey distiller and then winds its way around the events of books two, three and four, using them as background drama. This is understandable, given we need time between Mantis and Felicity’s moment of indiscretion and the eventual happy ending. The trouble, however, is this serves more as a distraction than effective aid to the plot.

Bummer, because this book has a lot going for it with the plot, but it’s bogged down by tying too many storylines together. The fact that Mantis feels he must marry Felicity for duty’s sake certainly doesn’t drum up warm gooey feelings of love, nor does her actions, but there is also a lack of chemistry between them. Yes, they feel lust, but no sparks are flying and it feels more like mutual using of one another to scratch an itch rather than a whirlwind romance.

And it’s got a lot tossed into it- there is the is she/isn’t she pregnant, then the will she/won’t she marry him, and plots of danger and someone trying to kill Mantis and why. Both have some familial issues, but Mantis’s are an absolutely horrific situation. Frankly, I am shocked that Cordelia doesn’t open her mouth and say something, given we keep hearing how strong and capable and warrior-like that she is, but she certainly doesn’t come across that way. I do hope, however, she features in another novel because I do want to know more about Mantis’s twin and see her find a happily ever after of her own, but it doesn’t look like one has been written- at least not in this series, but maybe she will show up elsewhere? From the looks of it the author does allow for some characters to pop up elsewhere… I’m just not sure I’d be into picking up another series by her at this point.

This book also has me wondering just what is Blackheart’s true role as a character. He seems well put together compared to his friends, but what’s with him being all like a spy with his own set of trained commandos at heel? Is he the Regency version of MI5 or some kind of soldier squad leader in disguise? I mean thank goodness we’ll eventually get his story in book seven.

All-in-all, the best book so far for me has been Cocky Baron (book two) which I had read first. I was drawn in by the illustrated cosy romance cover and not the ones depicted here with guys giving smoldering looks. I have to admit that had I been presented with the male model covers I never would have looked twice at the series and been just fine without them.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an explosion of emotions, plots, evil people, wonderful friends, questionable families but most of all a HEA.

Viscount Manningham-Tissinton - aka Mantis, Axel has tried to gain approval from his father for his entire life but that would never happen. He is close with his twin sister, younger half-brother & gets along with his stepmother. He spends his free time with his lordly friends, watching his investments & training young boys how to protect themselves from bullies in White Chapel. He is not looking for a wife & especially not one betrothed to one of his best friends - or is he???

Lady Felicity Brightley has been promised to & has loved Jules, Earl of Westerley for most of her life & now he was marrying another. He had told her he loved another & now he has proposed & they were soon to be married - she overheard his proposal & escaped out of the house party. She is upset & then her dress & hair get tangled in rose bushes & Manningham helps free her.

And then...........a moment happens - she asks him to hold her & things move quickly forward between them. Their passion grows, results loom over their heads, the become betrothed, but danger lurks as someone is threatening Axel's life - but who??? This was a wonderful story with such a great group of characters & a couple that you root for from the rough beginning of their relationship. This entire series has been 5 Star reads & I highly recommend each of them to all historical romance readers who enjoy some steam in their books! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[EstelaReadsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starring Lady Felicity Brightley and Axel “Mantis” Royce Lupton, Viscount Manningham-Tissinton

Tropes: Jilted, Compromised, Friends to Lovers-ish, and a little intrigue.

I always say an exit is an entrance to a better adventure... and that’s what happens when Felicity gets jilted. She lets go of the love she thought she wanted and finds Axel (aka Mantis), whose love she totally needs. These two were liquid hotness from the word go... right place, right time, and the perfect kind of love.

Felicity, is a very forthright and self-assured heroine. Even when her confidence is shaken, she holds her head high. But I love that she shows her vulnerable side to Axel. She can be real with him... and that’s when she’s the most beautiful.

Axel, is an alpha hero with a beta’s heart. He was such a big hunka teddy bear. He made me want to hug him and shield him from his father’s lack of emotions towards his son. He was so caring and sweet to Felicity... such a gentle warrior. Totally loved him.

All in all this was lots of romance, lots of heat, with intrigue thrown in. I did not ugly cry with this story, but I still enjoyed it immensely.

Thank you, Annabelle Anders for another wonderful story. I cannot wait for the other books in the Regency Cocky Gents Series!!

My star rating: 4 1/2
Book was great. Loved the characters. Gave me the feels and aaaaaaalmost made me cry in some parts.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Felicity Brightley is the most genteel of ladies. Raised to marry the Earl of Westerley, she’s never failed to follow the dictates of society. Doing so, she’d been promised, ensured lifelong security and happiness. When her future is shattered, however, she decides it’s time she tests those rules—perhaps make up a few of her own. Viscount Manningham-Tissinton (Mantis) isn’t looking for a wife—especially not a lady considered a diamond of the first water. So when he stumbles upon Felicity, devastated by the betrayal at the hands of one of Manti’s closest friends, he takes it upon himself to comfort her.
Oh those Cocky gents are toe curlingly gorgeous & are kept on their toes by feisty strong women. I absolutely loved both Axel & Felicity who both thought they weren’t good enough & both deserved to find love. They were perfect for each other & I was totally engrossed in the journey to their HEA, which was strewn with obstacles especially that someone was out to kill Axel. This is the fourth book in the series & whilst it’s a lovely romance on its own when read alongside the other books it takes it to another level as the books all take place over roughly the same time frame so characters & events take place across the series & I complement the author for how well she’s meshed the books together. A lovely book which I devoured & an outstanding series, I can’t wait for the remaining two books.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

The way the story started I didn't think I would enjoy it. I did feel sorry for the h in how things transpired for her with her betrothed. But, how she handles her grief was a put off to me so she had to work hard to win me over. I'm surprised the Ton didn't consider her called off betrothed ruining her reputation. No mention of this at all.

The H was a dream! Somethings came hard for him because of his birth. He might have lacked in figuring somethings out quickly, but he was kind, loyal and oh so caring.

There is a villain and I must say I did figure it out fairly quickly.

We are treated to suspense, violence, twists and great secondary character's to keep the story from dragging.

Descriptive lovemaking outside and within marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 - so bedroom door pretty wide opened.

This is my first book in the series and I wasn't lost. I hope to read the previous stories in the series because of the interesting friends the H has.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, not an easy road to HEA, romance and steam. We are treated to two great epilogues. So thankful I didn't have to download the extended epilogue - huge pet peeve of mine. Some crude language used 3 times at least and minor editing.

I received an early copy. All opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meant to love

Have you unconsciously done something that knew was right but you really shouldn't have done it? Felicity has been perfectly content to wait on Lord Westerly there was no passion just a long standing agreement until there wasn't! Felicity has pent up longing and desires that she isn't aware of until they come into fruition!
Felicity throws herself at Axel aka Lord Manningham-Tissinton and oh my steam comes off the pages like literally their chemistry is totally unexpected! Lord Manningham-Tissinton aka Mantis has had a crush on Felicity but she was off limits until she wasn't! Axel has several accidents befall him and Felicity father denying his suit? Can things get anymore complicated and he and Felicity can barely keep their hands to themselves! This story packs more dastardly evil villains than all the stories combine! Mantis aka Axel deserves love and someone to love other than his brothers in arms! The enemies are so close to home for Axel it brings tears!
There is so much action and intrigue and we also see snippets of the other cocky gents HEA! This series and things s story is an absolute must read!!! Outstanding!!!!

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what a lovely romantic story. I am so happy to have read this gem. Felicity and Axel are the couple of the week who has captivated my imagination. Their love for each somehow manages to stand strong through all the chaos that transpires around them. At times my heart felt so sorry for Axel.
All he ever wanted was to be loved and cherished by his father. Then there’s Felicity her relationship with her father has the uncannily similarities as Axel and his. As I continued with this lovely story, I held on to the hope that with the help of their friends, Axel and Felicity would survive. As if the book couldn’t get any better someone was out to extinguish the light from Axel. This provided more excitement for, because I love suspense wrapped in a romantic novel.
I enjoyed the fast pace of the book as well as the realistic aspects. I didn’t find the book dull or plane. All the characters brought witty charm and romantic appeal. As for the heat between Axel and Felicity, I found myself saying, “ guys get a room”! I don’t think that these two ever heard of a bed.
Until next time my fellow readers... read on.

[JANET SMITH · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Enjoyable Read

This is the first book I have read in this series, I don't quite know where the cocky part of the title comes in but I can guess if Mantis and Felicity's actions are anything to go by. To say that Lady Felicity has been straight laced for years waiting for her once betrothed Lord Westerley she makes up for lost time after Lord Westerley proposed to someone else and she has a close encounter with (Lord Manningham-Tissinton ) Mantis (for short!) whilst caught up in a rose bush. Mantis, according to his obnoxious father, Lord Crestwood is simple and he doesn't care who he tells! As the story is told Mantis does appear dim but sweet, as well as lusty! He is a gentle giant accordingly but we soon find out when needs be he isn't and one could question how does a dim man afford to give his prospective father in law £50,000, all I can say is people must have got it very wrong or he has an excellent agent. Mantis and Lady Felicity's relationship moves on a pace when she finds she is pregnant and someone decides Mantis, or possibly all three (baby included) must die. A ripping yarn with all Mantis's Lordly friends coming to the rescue.
I would thoroughly recommend it.

[Alice Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Propagation in the hot house! 5*

After an incredible, stunning start (in more ways than one), this develops into a delicious romance for Axel (Mantis) and Felicity, whilst up-ending a few standard historical romance expectations.

Felicity is delightful, slowly emerging from years of stasis caused by her previous engagement and Mantis is wonderfully warm, caring and protective despite his background. Never mind steamy, these two are set to be scorching between the sheets (we assume, eventually) and anywhere/everywhere else in the meantime. They certainly know how to put the Pleasure into Vauxhall Gardens!

I had literally just been wondering if there were any HR books written about young women in Felicity's situation, and then this book arrived to explore the whole issue really well within a strong build of romance and love. This was the first book I'd read (devoured!) in this series, and although there were references to the earlier books, Annabelle's careful, deft and interconnnected world-building is so well done that I am definitely going to read the others.

This is an honest review in exchange for an ARC of this book.

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful! Maybe I am a bit biased, but Annabelle Anders writes sexy and romantic historical fiction that will draw you in every time.

Felicity Brightly has been engaged to the Earl of Westerly for years. When he proposes to another woman, in front of Felicity no less, she is devastated. Eager to get away and lick her wounds, hide her broken heart, she escapes into the garden, where she promptly gets entangled in the roses. Having seen her flight, Axel, Viscount Manningham-Tissinton, Mantis to his cohorts, locates her in all her tangled glory. Having had a tendre for his friend's fiancee for years, he is overwhelmed by her, and things quickly escalate, to the point where he feels honor bound to offer for her. Felicity has no wish to be a duty, and declines his offer.

As their relationship progresses, we learn that someone has it out for Mantis. Will Felicity be in danger spending time with him? And will she come to realize that his dutiful offer was less duty and more affection?

Loved, loved, loved this story! And not one, but two epilogues!

[Gayle Fairless · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steamy romance; Lady Felicity Brightley and Viscount Manningham-Tissinton aka Mantis aka Alex are the featured couple. Both characters have appeared in previous books as have supporting characters. Felicity, formerly betrothed for some time to Lord Jules Fitzwilliam, the Earl of Westerley, has just heard Jules propose to Miss Charley Johnston (featured in the Cocky Earl by the same author). She runs out into the garden to get a grip on her emotions and is captured by a vicious rose bush. Mantis rescues her and takes her to a quiet place. He courts her vigorously but does not get her consent until they return to London. Lord Brightley does not accept his offer. Lord Crestwood, the father of Mantis, does not hold him in high esteem. Mantis and Felicity confront Lord Brightley with the need to marry. But there are attempts to kill Mantis. The would-be killer is not discovered until the wedding. I shall give away one spoiler. Felicity does deliver twins for her husband. I have deliberately omitted several story details to keep from spoiling the story.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

What starts as a broken almost betrothal turns out to be an even better pairing. When Felicity sees the man she expected to marry propose to another woman in front of a whole ballroom she flees the scene and gets caught up in a vicious rose bush. Luckily, Viscount Manninham-Tissiton (Mantis) comes to the rescue and what starts as just detangling her from the thorns ends up with them making love in the oragery. While Mantis offers marriage immediately she doesn't want to marry just because she's been ruined.
Two months later, there is no doubt that they must marry when she finds herself pregnant. Once the announce their engagement strange accidents begin to happen - getting more dangerous each time. While I guessed who was doing it almost from the start, it was worth the wait to see how it eventually unfolded. What starts as a needed marriage quickly turns into a love match and both Felicity and Axel get the person they deserve to be with.
I received an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[Laura Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and a mysterious adversary

Mantis is a gentle giant and Felicity was a heartbroken proper lady. This is the fifth book in the series and all the books take place around the same time so I recommend reading the series in order because you find out tidbits about each story from each book that makes reading for Easter eggs so much fun. It also fleshes out the characters more. This series is fun to read. Different villains per every book and the heroes are all best of friends, different but complimentary to each other. Mantis is zen like with his calm but he’s also a master of meditation and eastern arts. Felicity was once promised to Lord Westerly, but he ended their almost betrothal devastating her until she embraced Axel “Mantis”literally. There is some predictability in the story, and at times as a reader I wanted the h/h to figure out the problem but the author did keep you guessing until the end. This is one of those stories where you just want the H/H to love each other because they are both so delightful.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Annabelle Anders! I adore this series and am enjoying reading every book in it so far. This book is about Mantis/Axel and Felicity. Felicity has spent years waiting for the man her father picked to marry her, until that man fell in love with someone else. The night he proposed to his love, Felicity was upset and went into the garden and was tangled in a Rose bush. Mantis found her and helped her. Then they kissed to make her feel better, and this is where the story starts. Mantis wanted to do the right thing and this book is about them both falling in love with each other. There is a small mystery in the story to keep you guessing. Mantis is a sweet man and wanted to make Felicity happy. After reading this book, I am not sure which of these gentlemen in this series I like the best, right now I think it is Mantis.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion. My honest opinion is I loved it.

[Kat Tolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ANOTHER GREAT READ!!!! Cocky Viscount by Annabelle Anders is book 5 in the Cocky Gents series and oh what a series this is! Truly one of my all time favorites. If I said this once I will say it again that Annabelle is one of the greatest writers of our time. This story is original, easy to read and the characters are so lovable. Though in a series this book can be read as a standalone. What I loved about this book is it had such a mystery to it as well as a wonderful story. It really gives you the true regency feeling. This story has a broken betrothed, giving comfort, heartbreak, breaking the rules of society, attempted murder, kindness, loving friends, brotherly love, evil, an awful father, a pregnancy and finding true love. It has it all and so much more. I highly recommend this book and the rest of this series as it really is a fantastic read.

**This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.