Insatiable

The Phoenix Club #8

by Darcy Burke

Society’s most exclusive invitation...

Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances.

Lord Lucien Westbrook is Society’s most charming and helpful gentleman. Overlooked and discredited by his father, Lucien seeks to support others any way that he can—no one deserves to feel unloved. So when he has the chance to assist his best friend’s sister in her scientific endeavors, who is he to refuse? Except her experiments involve kissing and touching and understanding how humans mate…

When her brother carried on a secret affair with Lucien’s sister, Lucien had been furious and now here is he committing the very same sin.

Too bad he can’t help himself.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Espionage

362 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 24, 2023

About the author

Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.

A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lord Lucien Westbrook is known for helping other members of society, but few know that his eagerness to be of service is heavily influenced by the lack of love and support he’s endured from his own father. When his best friend’s sister, Miss Kathleen Shaughnessy, asks him for his help researching scientific matters that interest her, he can’t seem to refuse her, though he knows he should since she’s mostly fascinated by human mating habits. Lucien was furious when he learned of Kat’s brother’s secret affairs with his sister and now he’s about to go down the same slippery slope. He knows he needs to focus on the other problems currently plaguing him and avoid compromising situations with Kat, but he can’t seem to resist her.

I had extra high expectations for this book because of how much I’ve loved the character of Lucien throughout the series and how much he deserved his own HEA after working so hard to help others find theirs and not having much of his own. It’s also worth noting that it’s January and I find that to be a particularly depressing and difficult month for me mentally, which is possibly reflected in my reviews at the moment. Whatever the case, it is also important to remember that this book had a lot to accomplish to wrap up this series in a satisfactory way and give us answers about Lucien’s relationship with his father and the future of the club and everything did wrap up in a way I was pleased with.

This book definitely did give me some angst because the whole time Lucien was just suffering and under so much stress that he made me just want to give him a hug. After his having helped so many people, it started to feel like no one was there for him, until he finally confided in his friends and they, of course, stepped in to help him. I loved that closeness and the ‘friends who are family’ aspect here. I definitely did struggle to warm to Kat, especially at first. Her anxiety issues are painfully relatable for me, so perhaps it was also a struggle to see those familiar feelings of not belonging or being too different reflected back at me. Beyond that though, she gave no thought to anyone but herself and her research and that narrow scope made her difficult to root for as a heroine for a while. She bordered on narcissistic there for a bit and only saw Lucien as another bit of wildlife for her research, making her come off as simultaneously clueless and arrogant. For a while there I was much more interested in the mystery surrounding the woes facing the club than I was in Lucien and Kat’s relationship as the romance wasn’t really there for me yet. It was clear she was attracted to him but for a while there I wasn’t convinced there was an emotional connection and it almost felt like she was just using him to get something she needed/wanted, much like every character in the series has done, though Lucien never begrudges them.

Fortunately, things turned around as Lucien and Kat spent more time together. She grew as a person, mostly because of him, as he helped her see things differently and want to be better and widen her views to become more empathetic towards others even as she struggled to understand them. He understood her, and she understood him, and that was really beautiful. I also loved that she referred to herself as an aberration for not fitting into society as a proper lady should, but he viewed himself the same way within his own family. They were both struggling to find their place in their own ways, and I really enjoyed seeing them change their perspectives, reevaluate what they thought they wanted for themselves, and make that happen together. This was a satisfying series conclusion with an intriguing mystery and solid character growth, and I loved seeing everyone together cohesively in the end as a found-family unit.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...

[Julie - One Book More · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been salivating for Lucien’s story since the first book in this series. Lucien was so mysterious and intriguing, and I wanted to know everything about him. I also wanted to know about the mysterious partners in The Phoenix Club and why they had so much power. And after the last book, I was really curious to find out more about Lucien’s father and why he was so negative and unsupportive of Lucien when he wasn’t necessarily like that with his other children. I’m happy to say all of my questions and more were answered in this conclusion to The Phoenix Club.

Lucien’s love interest is Kat, his best friend’s sister. Their growing romance is a bit ironic since Lucien was so adamantly opposed to his sister marrying his best friend. Kat wants to understand human mating rituals, and she asks Lucien, the only person she’s ever been attracted to, to help her. Lucien has enough on his plate without engaging with his best friend’s sister, but he can’t deny he is drawn to Kat. My word, these two have chemistry! Lucien goes almost feral thinking about Kat practicing her experiments with other men, and it’s pretty swoon-worthy. I like that Lucien found someone who challenges him and piques his interest, not to mention the spicy scenes, some of which are set in some hidden recesses of The Phoenix Club and are pretty steamy.

I love Lucien! In all of the past books, he’s proven to be successful, supportive, and a clever matchmaker. He loves deeply, and he has amazing friendships and relationships with his siblings. However, with precarious connections to the crown, a traitor in their midst, an ever-confusing and troubled relationship with his father, and The Phoenix Club slipping through his fingers, Lucien struggles throughout this story. I’m so glad he found a partner with whom he can share his present troubles and his past secrets because as successful and loved as Lucien is, he’s also very alone in many ways.

Kat has her own difficulties, especially in understanding people and social situations. She often becomes overwhelmed and inconsolable. She is a well-developed character with strength, intelligence, and a vast amount of curiosity and bravery. And the way Lucien respects her boundaries and understands her needs is wonderful. It made me like him even more than I did before because he is so accepting, and he makes Kat see herself in an entirely different light. I think Kat does the same for Lucien.

I enjoyed this ending to The Phoenix Club series. It has romance, intrigue, and drama, and it wraps everything up nicely. Traitors are finally revealed, thanks to Lucien, Kat, and many of their friends, and the revelations about Lucien’s father explain a lot. And I think almost all of the main characters in the previous book have appearances in this one, which I adored. I actually kind of liked the intrigue and development of Lucien and his relationships with family and friends, as well as his connection to the Crown and The Phoenix Club a little bit more than I liked the love story. Thanks to NetGalley and Darcy Burke for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.

[Elizabeth McFarland · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Phoenix Club has been very enjoyable, and Lucien's story has been a long time coming. Lucien has been so instrumental in everyone else's HEA. His was long overdue, and Kat was exactly who he needed.

I've never read an autistic heroine in a historical romance before. It was very having a different type of heroine. I loved seeing Kat's growth through the story. She was a wonderful character, and her connection with Lucien was beautiful to see unfold.

I enjoyed this book and the entire series. It was great seeing all of the couples from the previous installments and quite satisfying to have everything wrapped up nicely. All loose ends were tied up, and the issues with the Phoenix Club were resolved.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

After Miss Kathleen Shaughnessy is seen kissing a gentleman in a Gloucestershire garden, she’s sent to London to avoid scandal. She doesn’t, however, plan to abandon her research of mating rituals, and she knows the perfect person to provide assistance: her brother Ruark’s best friend, Lord Lucien Westbrook, who is renowned for helping others. Disdained by his haughty father, Lucien runs the Phoenix Club, an inclusive community where no one is ostracized or overlooked. It’s also a secret rendezvous for the Foreign Office, where important connections are made, and information is passed—until a scandal ricochets through the club and threatens Lucien’s position with his superiors. As Lucien works to maintain control of the club, his best friend’s sister seeks his personal expertise and assistance with researching the “science” of mating.
The eighth & final book in the series & finally Lucien has his HEA, I’ve loved Lucien from book one & eagerly awaited his story & whilst my feelings for him didn’t change I found it hard to warm to Kat & to be honest felt she wasn’t a true fit for Lucien. Lucien is loving, extremely caring & takes the world on his shoulders, he’s a true friend & defends his family & friends. I found Kat to be selfish & immature, very focused on what she wanted & oblivious that her actions could hurt others. I did feel there was chemistry between the pair but more lust than love, I wanted Lucien to find someone who would care for him as much as he cares for others. I enjoyed the mystery involving the Foreign Office & also how Lucien & his father’s relationship developed & changed. A well written finale just not my favourite of this brilliant series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[DD · Rating 4 out of 5]

Final book in what has been a great series. At last we get Lucien's book.

Lucien is:
younger son to the Duke, who he really doesn't get along with, in fact goes out of his way to antagonise,
brother to Con and Cass, from earlier books in the series,
former soldier,
former spy,
owner (to the most of the world) of the Phoenix club,
a confirmed bachelor, and
a great friend, and sometime match maker.

In fact the Phoenix club was mainly financed by the foreign office, who after the scandal of the club's manager Evie, have now decided it wants to remove Lucien as 'owner' as he doesn't fit their rhetoric - but does the foreign office want this or just a small faction of it?
Kat, sister to Roarke the Earl of Wexford, has surprised her brother and his wife Cass by wanting a season, in spite of all the family knowing she hates crowds being too hot or being the centre of attention. In fact what she really wants is to watch the human mating rituals and feels watching others may help her.

What didn't quite work: I didn't like Kat, I couldn't warm to her,and although she played a part in solving the mystery, and making this final book a success, no matter how hard I tried I just wanted to (at least) verbally slap her.
What worked: well written, interesting sub plot. Lucien getting his happy ever after (even if not with the woman he deserved IMO of course); seeing Lucien at least understand his father and vice versa; tying up all the loose ends left from previous books; getting a decent resolution to the issues with the Phoenix Club and finally having all the couple's from the series involved in this the culmination of the series.

Couple of punctuation issues I'm sure down to me reading an ARC

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances.
Lucien and Kat are meant to be together.
His love of the stars and her love of science makes them the ideal couple.
Darcy Burke is a great author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Susan in Perthshire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an ARC through NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I read two ARCs this week - both historical fiction and both with a heroine who appeared to be on the autistic spectrum. I have two friends who are autistic and whom I know very well, so I was interested in how the authors presented someone who is Neuro-divergent. Frankly, neither of these fictional heroines was credible and I am so angry at the way the authors failed to present fully realised representations of fully functioning autistic people. It was an insult. If Kat is not meant to be autistic then I apologise but the way she was written certainly suggests that’s what the author intended. If not, then Kat is insufferably adolescent, naive, insensitive and selfish and I really didn’t like her.

This book was the end of a series which I have not read so I don’t know how much that affected my enjoyment. The story seemed so predictable and derivative that I found it difficult to engage. The vast cast of characters was reasonably well handled but I did struggle to know who waas who some of the time. The plotting was so melodramatic and dated that I never developed any interest in the machinations of the protagonists.

For me the major drawback was the heroine. Sorry but the way this author depicted Kat was really poorly done imho. I felt no empathy for Kat and I could not believe Lucien had fallen in love with her.

The idea of the heroine researching mating habits of humans in that era simply made me laugh. The author failed to make me understand Kat’s thinking and behaviour , let alone sympathise with her desires. I just found Kat a boring figure. Such a shame.

Sorry, this was simply not my cup of tea and I ended up skimming the book. I believe this is a popular author so I don’t imagine my dislike of the book will affect her. Sorry but I can’t give this more than 2 stars.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Home Office is causing problems for Lucien and his control of The Phoenix Club. Kat Shaughnessy's questions on human mating rituals are also having unexpected reactions and distractions for Lucien. Like magnates, they can't stay away from each other. Add his ongoing conflict with his father, is it any wonder Lucien keeps turning to Kat for comfort. Friends and family join forces to find a traitor and a murderer in the Home Office, when Kat inadvertently finds herself in trouble. An autistic heroine finds her happily ever after and a great ending to the series!
Who said sex can't be funny?!?!
Heat level HOT!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Kim Gasparini · Rating 1 out of 5]

I liked the first 7 books of this series. They weren’t great, but a lukewarm 3 stars.
I was looking forward to Lucien’s story.

But there are 2 major problems with this book. And I am going to rant about them, so if that’s not what you want to read, skip this.

First, Kat is a clumsy attempt at a quirky “she’s not like other girls, she’s neuro-divergent” and it’s poorly done. And she is not sure she feels desire, so of course Lucien has to want her and then make her feel desire. Why? Let Asexual be a thing. Bad writing all around on this.
Second, every time a new person is brought into a scene, we are told they are white.
It’s the upper class world of London in the 1800s. It’s a pretty safe bet they are white. If they aren’t, then tell me that. That would be interesting and relevant in the description. This feels like a sloppy attempt to be in the same league of writers as Courtney Milan, who writes about minority characters in upper class London in an interesting and seamless way. So if you want diversity in your books, I highly recommend her!!! But I digress.
There is no need to tell me a character is white, when every single character is white in a world where it is widely expected that they will, in fact, be white.
And also, it is the least interesting detail about the person. It doesn’t matter. Stop taking up space on the page with that detail.
It’s like another book that told us the heroine was tall on every single page.
It’s just bad writing.

If the story itself was compelling at all, these things wouldn’t have bothered me.
But the Phoenix Club stopped being interesting a few books ago. I am not sure why I bought this one.

[Elodie’s Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

♣️ Insatiable 🪙
The Phoenix Club Book 8
✒️ Darcy Burke
https://m.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans/
Release Date 01/24/2023
Publisher Zealous Quill Press
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B57KG282?...

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

Society’s most exclusive invitation...

Welcome to the Phoenix Club, where London’s most audacious, disreputable, and intriguing ladies and gentlemen find scandal, redemption, and second chances.

After Miss Kathleen Shaughnessy is seen kissing a gentleman in a Gloucestershire garden, she’s sent to London to avoid scandal. She doesn’t, however, plan to abandon her research of mating rituals, and she knows the perfect person to provide assistance: her brother’s best friend, Lord Lucien Westbrook, who is renowned for helping others.

Disdained by his haughty father, Lucien runs the Phoenix Club, an inclusive community where no one is ostracized or overlooked. It’s also a secret rendezvous for the Foreign Office, where important connections are made, and information is passed—until a scandal ricochets through the club and threatens Lucien’s position with his superiors.

As Lucien works to maintain control of the club, his best friend’s sister seeks his personal expertise and assistance with researching the “science” of mating. He can’t possibly say yes, but the more time he spends with the genuine and captivating Kat, the weaker his resistance. He’s soon battling his desire for her as well as the powerful forces who wish to push him out of his club. When Kat is thrust into real danger, Lucien will stop at nothing to protect the woman who has stolen his heart.

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

This last book sees Lucien batting for what he has built, a place for those not always welcomed in the bosom of society.
And while there is a romance purling its way into the story, the main plot is to sort out who’s against the founders of the club and trying to cause harm to them.

Lucien has been in some way the matchmaker of this group of friends, in between more serious pursuits, he has helped others and stands by his friend when his peers want to see her shunned and gossiping tongues seek to hurt her.
He is the man behind the club, so removing him would be like destroying it, why he battles with his friends by refusing to stand down and bringing down a place they have designed for the outcasts.

I do not know if it is me but I did not really warm to Kat. She was not bad, just okay. So naive and quite selfish as with two younger sisters, any action endangering her reputation would by cascade harmed if not ruined her sisters’ prospects.
So while I understand science, learning and research processes, being reckless and foolhardy with not only her future did not endear her to me.

This book sees the resolution of questions left unanswered from the other books, a sort of reconciliation between Lucien and his father and the confirmation of Lucien at the club’s head.
4 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scene

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

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[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 8th and final book in the series. The h is Kathleen Shaunessy Ruarke’s sister and Cassandra’s sister in law. She wishes to be a spinster and is a bluestocking with some quirks. She becomes overwhelmed when overstimulated. Possibly Asperger Syndrome or even ADHD. I have a daughter who gets overwhelmed when around crowds of people and needs alone time. She has gone to a psychologist and has discovered she is ADHD. So just a guess about Kat. The H is the star the beloved Lucien everyone’s go to guy. If you need help who do you call Lucien. The only person who doesn’t seem to love him is his father the Duke of Evesham. I do think the Duke does care but has an odd way of showing it. Lucien is worried in this book about the scandal after Lord Gregory’s selfish brother exposed Evie in the newspaper. The Duke of Evesham reunited her father a chevalier from France with Evie and her sister Eloise. I think this is how he showed he cared about Lucien. But Lucien doesn’t think his father doesn’t do favours without an ulterior motive. He is also concerned because the Foreign Office owns the club and he wanted to buy it out with a loan from the Duke but the Duke said he couldn’t buy it out from the Foreign office. Lucien was shocked his father knew and eventually went to inquire about it with the Duke who apparently worked for Foreign office in the war with Napoleon in Spain but stepped aside so Lucien could work for them instead. Meanwhile the Duke told Lucien what a disappointment he was to have left the army. Lucien always felt unloved by his father. He just recently reconnected with Constantine the Duke’s heir and favourite and they were closer since he helped Con and Sabrina reconnect as husband and wife. He was always close to Cassandra as the two of them used to get into mischief and aggravate the Duke. He has been tasked by Oliver Kent and Lady Pickering to get some of the 38 club members who’s resigned to come back meanwhile Kat stumbled onto a cryptographic note in a book about a prostitues experiences and gave it to her best friend Jess to solve who worked for the foreign office along with Dougal MacNeir Viscount Fallin. Once Jess deciphered it she gave it Dougal who conferred with Lucien. They believe someone killed Gerard the French spy who was working for the Foreign office whom had his throat slit on one of the missions Dougal worked on. Jess deciphered a note absolving Dougal probing Gerard was a traitor to the crown not Dougal. Now Lucien and Dougal are working along with Jess to solve this mystery. Something isn’t adding up. Kat is continuing her study of human sexuality and has been finding books on the subject. She asked Lucien to find her a rake who could be her test subject. He said she couldn’t do that. She finally got him to kiss her and the next time after viewing sexually stimulating drawing from a book in the library he made her come by eating her sucking on her sex and using his fingers entering her vagina. Afterwards she snuck into his office where he was jacking off and she took over. Conclusion Lucien and his father make up and a birth truth is revealed. Kat and Lucien marry and Fiona gives birth at the wedding.

Review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insatiable by, Darcy Burke. Another pulse pounding Romance book from Ms. Darcy Burke. Not only was I fascinated by the mystery, breach against the crown and one’s country, broken trust , it was the erotic fun times in the bedroom that had me drawn deep into the book. The story has a medium speed to it.
I believe that the writer intentionally did this, because she didn’t want you to miss any of the detailed information to Lucien along with Roark and the gentleman that belong to Lucien’s club, The Phoenix Club. I thought the the whole discovery of who were the culprits was tied up very nicely. The romance story behind the story in the book was most entertaining. Lucien and Kat set the pages afire under the basis of how animals mate. “Sure Kate use that as an excuse to Lucien’s hands on you girl.” I’m not jealous. “
“Well maybe a little.” Like I was saying the many naughty things these two do in the hidden darks spaces in the club was darn right masterful. Lucien is like a god I tell you. The god of pleasure. Kate, who tries to be all innocent, on a number of occasions turns to a Wilde cat when she’s around the delectable Lucien. I for one enjoyed the entertainment of the book and had a blast reading Lucien and Kats mating experiments.
I give this book two snaps and a, twist. Until next time my fellow readers… read on!

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed this series and while I had a few reservations the subplots and intrigue have made it quite thrilling. This story had some twists and turns that kept the book interesting. I wasn’t sure what to think of Kat, at first I thought her more naive than smart, then I found her curiosity a bit amusing, I guess she is unique. I had always hoped that Lucien would get his HEA, but this story was more about him saving his club and finding a mate that would keep him intrigued and one he wouldn’t tire of.

[PlotTrysts · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the final book of the Phoenix Club series, we finally see Lucien get paired off. The romantic pairing in this book was a fun one. Kat is somewhere on the autism spectrum, with a singular focus on her current research topic and abysmal social skills, while Lucien is the quintessential extrovert, empathetic and focused on aiding those Society chooses to denigrate. Their romance reminded us of Jane Austen's gentle satire between Catherine and Tilney in Northanger Abbey: "a persuasion of her partiality for him had been the only cause of giving her a serious thought." Lucien has always liked Kat, but it's only when she admits that she's never been attracted to any man but him that he realizes that he's also attracted to her. Although they might not seem well-matched in theory, Lucien's open-hearted nature pairs well with Kat's eccentricities. He's able to see her as a person, rather than an oddity.

We also see the resolution of the spy plot introduced two books ago. We were really wondering what had happened, and we were glad that we got to see the ending. That said, we wish the romance could have been the singular focus of the book, as it was more compelling than the corruption of the Foreign Office.

We've really enjoyed spending time at the Phoenix Club!

This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucien Lucien Lucien. We finally get your story. I’m sure that other fans of this series have been waiting with baited breath to find out what happens to the man who has been so central to the series and others happy ending but hasn’t got his yet. Well I didn’t see all this coming. The books in this series have all had lots of plot to them and not just about the romance which is one of the reasons I like them so much. This book has lots and lots of plot that wraps up the series. Cleverly written into this is what has to be the most unique character that Ms. Burke has ever written. Ms. Kathleen Shaughnessy just doesn’t understand things the way that everyone else does. In today’s world she would be diagnosed and helped. As someone who has dyslexia it’s great to see this type of character in a book.
What I think is most amazing is how Ms. Burke has thought out how to portray this character, including how her family and friends have worked out what things upset her and how to help all while remaining accurate to the time period. Ms Burke also balances the humor in the situations Kat ends up in without ever making you feel like she is laughing AT her character. Congratulations Ms. Burke this is your best writing yet and I only wish I could give it more stars.

I was given a copy of this book and this is my honest review

[Elle · Rating 2 out of 5]

So…I don’t like leaving negative reviews. I would rather just not say anything at all and maybe that would be best for all. But I cannot, just cannot keep quiet about this one.

It’d been a while since I read anything by this author and while reading the synopsis I was thinking to myself, why haven’t I read this author?? I can’t remember any of her books. Which is crazy because when I see a story having anything to do with falling for a brother’s hunky, rakish friend…well I usually just throw my money at you.

BUT, I kid you not, three pages in I remembered why I don’t read books from this author. My eye twitches, I find myself staring in front of me blankly about five times a chapter and saying ‘what??’ Not a, oh that is an intriguing mystery, but a genuine what the flip am I reading? Why am I reading it? Etc.

Am I being harsh? Perhaps. Do I say everything with complete conviction? 100%

Dislikable characters, stilted conversation, and descriptions that leave a lot to be desired.

“Tall and white, he possessed alluring laugh lines around his eyes and mouth that lured all he encountered into his orbit” Hmm…I’m gonna say we got that fact that his alluring features lured people in by the definition of the word. Also when I’m reading a historical fiction set in England the first thing I think is an African American, or Asian male lead. So thanks for the description that he was tall and white…

I could go on but quite frankly I don’t want to think about this book anymore than I already have.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since 2015, I have read hundreds and hundreds of different authors but I only have 31 authors that I consider my favorites and have read all their books that they have in my genre. Darcy Burke is one of those authors. I love her stories, her writing and the great sex scenes. This is my 47th book by her and I started reading her in 2015.

I have loved all the books in this series. They have been great reads. I loved how at the beginning when characters were talking about something they discussed a situation that happened in the prior book. It helps to freshen my memory because I’ve read close to 90 books since Book 7 came out and was vaguely recalling it until that point.

I liked Kat and Lucien. Great characters and great story. Enjoyed the suspense and intrigue!!

[Heather Moll · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been eager for Lucien’s story so I can find out what happens to the club and what the deal is with his father. The romance is readable without knowing the series, but since this is the last, I’d recommend reading one or two of the others at least. There’s a lot of revisiting other characters and Foreign Office subplots.

The romance sometimes felt second to those subplots, but I’m invested in the series so that didn’t bother me. It was nice to see Lucien not have all the answers and need to rely on others.

I see a lot of reviewers not liking Kat and I think that demonstrates exactly why we need more neurodivergent heroines. Not everyone experiences the world the same way.

What am I supposed to read now that this fun series is over?!
I received an arc from NetGalley

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley. This was the last book in the series and it brought several things to a close. Lucien Has run the club and helped many of his friends now it is their turn to help him. Now Kathleen his best friend's sister has asked for help. She is doing a project on mating between animals as well as humans. It got her in some trouble with getting caught kissing another young miss's fiance. Lucien might lose the club because he won't fire Evie. Who really killed Giraud? Why does Lucien's father hate him so? Some of the answers to past questions are answered in this book. I am sorry to see the series end as it has been a lot of fun reading it.

[Lou Ambrose’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read some reviews saying they dislike/ hate the heroine. Kat, from my perspective, is autistic. Her traits that make her different or odd are very common in neuro spicy individuals like myself and I felt reflected in the romance. Lucien was an amazing partner to her and she for him. I can see why some wouldn’t warm to her because her actions could be mistaken for childish but from the point of view as Kat being autistic and the personal growth she goes through really makes it work for.

[Colleen's Conclusions · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was into the first half of the book and then I just ended up losing interest in it. I didn’t realize this book was the end of a series until about that point and it did make sense why some things didn’t make sense to me. I didn’t realize this on Netgalley, not until I marked it as completed on Goodreads.

The main characters were just ok to me, and I also ended up skimming past 60 percent. For now the rating is three stars. Thank you Netgalley and publishers for allowing the chance to read and review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Inishowen Cailín · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucien and Kat's story blends romance, humour and intrigue.
Kat cleverly confides in Lucien about her research, which makes his mind spin with the idea that she might actually experiment with a man who isn't him. Once they kiss their attraction to one another can't be denied and this leads to a few steamy scenes in clandestine locations. For me, there were too many scenes like this but I know lots of readers who actively seek it out and it's easy to skim past if you don't.
Kat appears to be on the autistic spectrum and I thought that the author represented it quite sympathetically. As they say, if you know one artistic person you know one autistic person. Kat's unique and latest obsession is researching mating rituals which leads her to yummy Lucien. She also has trouble with crowded places but has some coping mechanisms despite not being allowed to stim in public. I enjoyed the humour she brought and how Lucien appreciated her way of thinking.
The mystery had me intrigued and guessing to the end.
If you haven't read the earlier books it would be a good idea to start at the beginning rather than with this book as the number of characters and their relation to each other will be a little confusing otherwise.

[BookishMya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucien’s story has been perhaps the most anticipated match of this series. We have watched him work tirelessly to help and match everyone within his circle of friends while selflessly avoiding his own happiness. It delighted me to see him take to Kat, his best friend’s sister. Truly, after all the grief he put his sister and Ruark through regarding their match, it was only fitting that his match be slightly hypocritical. It provided another layer of humour to the situation. This story is full of so much light and longing, but more importantly, growth. Kat’s social anxieties are displayed with such truth and the way Lucien intuitively understands what she needs even from the beginning was the true display of his love. The relationships alongside their match added another layer to what made the story so compelling. If anything this story was about acceptance, support and understanding. Kat’s relationship with her brother and sister-in-law, so eagerly trying to make things easier for her, even Sabrina’s assistance, really cemented the bond of the family. Throughout this series, the friendships within this group have been a true family of found friends and loved ones. It brought me tremendous joy in the last 8 stories. Most often, I find that romance novels rarely truly shock me, but the mystery arc in this story did just that. I can honestly, the twists and turns of the end I did not see coming. I found myself gasping out loud at numerous revelations in the end. It was wonderfully written and a complete shock. Kat is everything I could’ve hoped for Lucien, even while being a complete surprise. A beautiful story of acceptance and the joy of being truly seen!

[aleah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok. I’m being pretty generous here with 3 stars.
If your like me, and you were filled with anticipation and were excited about finally getting to the best characters story - Lucian .. I’m sorry to break it to you all but it was an epic fail.
Lowest rating all series!!
The disappointment is invading me at the moment.
Lucien deserved such a better story and heroine I don’t know what happened.
I’ve had to retrieve this book from across the room countless times. Not to mention it took almost 2 weeks for me to finish it!!!

Il start by at least saying that gorgeous lucian was still and always intriguing and hot as mustard. The little mystery twisted in this story was great too.
The poor man went through a lot and I felt so bad for him because he deserved an amazing heroine to get him through it properly. Someone mature, confident, but who absolutely loved and adored him which he so deserved.

BUT .. alas .. we got a complete dip shit.
The best way I can describe her was she had either Autism or she had the air of a sociopath. Either one is the worst call ever.
A self absorbed immature brat with a robotic , almost devoid of emotion attitude. An example that made my eye twitch would be where she says “ oh don’t worry if I get with child il go to the country no one will know and then il give it to someone else to look after “ !! The emotion of a tea spoon statement!
Wtf! She was still in her school uniform I swear.

Then the author probably realised they were moulding the heroine into a complete selfish twit , added towards the end some contrived care for how lucian was actually going in his life by sticking her nose in areas she had no understanding of making things worse , spilling private secrets!!
YES 3 stars is generous!!

[Hanah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm sorry, but I've got to write this review. There have been quite a number of books I have read by this author, but this was the least enjoyable.

- I totally lost interest in the book because of Kat. I am not certain if the author tried to portray Kat as an autistic heroine (if so, she failed miserably) or if Kat is simply self-absorbed and clueless. I can’t help but compare this book to Jennifer Ashley’s book where she managed to make an autistic hero such an endearing character.

- The main characters don't have any chemistry, there’s no emotional connection or passionate love.

- It does seem odd that the author describes some of the characters as "White" when they are in an era of British nobility.

[Gia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was more about Lucien and his Phoenix CLub than about Lucien and Kat. The romance was meh and it just dragged in my opinion. There was no chemistry and the story between the two was interspersed by long stretches about the mystery of the Phoenix club..I confess I skipped several pages!
I relly expected more of Luciens story and was very disappointed. Also one more weird thing about this book..Ms Burke introduces each chatacter by describing their skin color, as she was a white lady, and he was a tall white man! I found this very very odd! WHy would she do this? Glad this is the last book in the series becasue I think her wrriting has really deteriorated.

[Marika · Rating 1 out of 5]

⛔️ (in notes)

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion.

I kind of did not want this series to end, because I enjoyed the greater world it was set in, having read the other books in the series and enjoyed them and the interconnected characters and relationships.

But all things must come to an end, and this is finally Lucien's story. I am certain that I am not the only one who wanted Lucien and Evangeline to end up back together, but that was obviously not going to be the case, especially after book 7. But I am satisfied after seeing his loyalty to her, and that the strength and basis of their love and appreciation for each other is respect and friendship.

But on saying that, Lucien has helped so many others find a place in the world, and find love and success, that he needed something good to happen to him too. Especially considering his world is falling apart, now that Evangeline's history was outed, his reputation is falling apart, and he was threatened with the loss of his club. It comes to light in this story that he is a figurehead for the club and he owes the Foreign Office for it's existence, with the plan that it be a facade for them to engage in monitoring members of society and a place to hold meetings. It is still a club as per Lucien's design, but the FO pulls some strings as to some members and how it should be run, and now they are putting pressure on him to do things he is against, such as getting rid of Evangeline Renshaw, and seeking to gain back members that have left. Lucien seeks to try to save his club and perhaps get out from under the thumb of the FO, even so far as to going to his ducal father for help.

His world seems to be falling apart around him, and he is at a loss on how to help himself, after so many years of helping others.

Into this period of emotional turmoil and chaos steps Miss Kathleen Shaunessy, the young sister of Lucien's good friend and now brother in law, Ruark, the Earl of Wexford. She has decided to join the Marriage Mart in London, and supported by her brother and wife, Cassie (Lucien's sister) because they believe she is looking for a husband. What she does seek to do is further her studies in mating behaviour, since she is singularly focused on her scientific studies, and has moved on from animals to humans. She has a failed attempt at such in the recent past, being caught engaging in kisses with a betrothed man in the country as part of her studies, but has decided to reapproach it again in London, as an observer of the rituals of the Marriage Mart. Though she realizes that observation does not help her to understand attraction between the sexes and seeks help from others. Including proposing that Lucien teach her about attraction. Lucien, already attracted to Kat, has a great deal of difficulty resisting her. Ironic considering how he lost his head when he found out about Ruark and his sister.

This was an interesting story - Kathleen is obviously awkward and does not fit in with what is expected of women in Society at the time - perhaps she is on the the Spectrum? It is rather sad how it sounds like her own mother and sisters do not understand her and how she was forced to fit the expected mold. I also liked the continued intrigue arc that carried over from Book 6, and Jess and Dougal's spy story, and how it affects Lucien and the Phoenix Club. There is also further to be revealed about the conflicted relationship between Lucien and his father, and some indication of future resolution there as well. So all in all, I felt it was a decent ending of the saga, with a love story and HEA for Lucien, and some cleaning up of loose ends as well.

Though I do agree some of the writing could have been a bit more sophisticated - describing someone as "tall and white" should be left on a police report, or news story Crime Stopper article. But it leaves me cold when used as character description in a novel meant to draw in and entertain the reader.

4 stars out of 5

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Operation save the Phoenix Club vs the science of romancing, mating & acceptance!

A tale that statisfyingly tied up the series' loose ends as romance, a loose thread at the beginning, tightened and evolved throughout the tale like the characters themselves. As they grew, understood, experimented and became so engrossed in each other that love was the only answer that could ever lead to their undeniable happiness and sanity. Ultimately, shaping an engaging story of acceptance, support, self growth and rather joyously, for those who have read Ruark and Cass' tale previously, a fun dose of 'what goes around, comes around' as Lucien slowly but surely... or should that be sensually ... falls hard for his best friend's sister too!
I especially loved the latter half of this tale, as the slow burn romance shifted through friendship and intensely, yet tenderly, hotted up as they surrendered to mutual attraction whilst attempting to uncover the mysteries and intrigues wrapped up in the foreign office's involvement in the club and the bad taste of deception, betrayal and murder that lingered in its wake. With the added bonus of familiar couples/friends lending a warmth and comfort to the tale that couldn't help but put a smile on my face.
To be totally honest, it did take a good third of the book for me to become hooked, an anomaly for me having read and been sucked instantly into each of the previous books...I chalk it up to being a casualty of the hype and anticipation I've built up surrounding my hopes and dreams for Lucien since book 1 and feeling them not being met in Kat... yet I'm happy to say, I was wrong!
I'm so glad I took the time to look deeper and really get to know, understand and see Kat grow to be the perfect match for our charismatic fixer and genuine good guy, Lucien. Which soon became absorbing in the reading, especially as the story shifted gear, the pace accelerated and the romance became more passionate and focused. Enough to keep me reading through the night, laughing and shedding a tear, until the surprisingly explosive plot twist and revelation at the book's climax.
Seeing Lucien's optimism and fixer persona shift to him being the one in need of help, allowed us to see a different side to him that I thoroughly enjoyed. Being forced to fight for his baby, as the acculmination of all his dreams to create a place where those not welcome can be embraced, loved and not judged, the founding principles of the Phoenix Club, was threatened to be taken away, really pulled at my heart strings. Which is why, in hindsight when you consider this desperate quest for acceptance, I think Kat, for me, became the perfect match for him.
Suffering with anxiety and difficulties to connect with others outside the security of her obsessions (at the moment, the science of animal mating rituals, chiefly human interactions).... and, what I can only surmise, would put her on the autism spectrum today... it was great to see her character open up and attempt to embrace others, despite arduously struggling with understanding and reading the emotions and actions of others, was enlightening.  As a result, I loved the banter and chemistry that thrummed between her and Lucien as her insatiable curiosity sparked humour in the delivery and Lucien's drive to understand her way of thinking as I couldn't help but see the funny side as he attempted to balance his fight against arousal at the intimacy of the discussions they debated and in awe of the sensitive and non judgemental way he reacted to that quest she had for enlightenment. Which ultimately, allowed them both a freedom to truly be themselves as they bonded, opened up and allowed their facades to slip as worries, vulnerabilities and struggles were confided and lessened.
Overall, concluding a wonderfully engaging, heart warming and witty series on a high. One I have loved and enjoyed becoming entangled in the intrigues, scandals and delicious goings on that have surrounded the notorious Phoenix Club, where many a character I could so easily class as friend. I highly recommend you start at the very beginning and enjoy the journey too!

[Michelle Dohring · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Lucien Westbrook is known for helping others. He is the owner of the Phoenix Club, at least that is what everyone thinks. He is only part owner, the Foreign Office owns the majority. The Foreign Office uses the club for secret assignations. After a scandal erupts at Lucien’s club, he is asked by the Foreign Office to resign from his position at the club. Lucien is in a fight for ownership of his club and maybe even his life.

Kathleen Shaughnessy is the sister of Ruark, Earl of Wexford. Kat was sent to London to avoid a scandal after she was seen kissing a gentleman in Gloucestershire. She is researching mating rituals.

She asks Lucien to find a rogue who she can assist in her research. Lucien refuses but is intrigued by Kat. He realizes what a hypocrite he was regarding Ruark’s unusual courtship of his sister Cass. Lucien is falling in the same trap as Ruark regarding his feelings and attraction to Kat. Lucien finding himself in the same predicament as Ruark and Cass was quite amusing. Lucien cannot believe the roles are reversed and now he is infatuated with his friend’s sister. Ruark’s reaction when he finds out about Lucien and Kat is priceless.

Lucien is my favorite character of the series. I could not wait for his story. Lucien is the epitome of handsome rogue who cares about his friends and family. He will do whatever it takes to protect them.

Lucien is very compassionate toward Kat’s issues. He is kind and patient. Together they have a passion that consumes them. Lucien is the perfect lover and soulmate for Kat. Lucien cannot stop thinking about Kat. They have some intense and steamy scenes together. They are hot together!

This story has mystery and intrigue to keep you on the edge of your seat. Lucien and Dougal must investigate the murder of one of the Foreign Office’s spies to clear Lucien of any wrongdoing. Kat wants to stop being selfish and focus on someone else’s problems. She decides to help Lucien buyout the owners of the Phoenix Club. Unfortunately she asks the wrong person for help and finds herself in trouble. Will Kat be able to escape from the traitor before it is too late? Can Lucien rescue Kat in time?

This is the eighth and final book in the Phoenix Club series. I enjoyed Lucien’s story immensely. I am sorry to see this series end. I also did not understand why the author kept stating each character’s race. She did not do this in previous books. Overall the series was wonderful! I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.