What do you think?
Rate this book
Ladies of the Order #5
No Life for a Lady
After almost a year spent playing chaperone to Mr Daventry’s female enquiry agents, Miss Trimble knows she must find a new position. All his agents are married, and so what other reason could he have for calling her to his office late at night? Except her employer is a master matchmaker, a man who has discovered her true identity, knows her real name and her darkest secret. A man who leaves her no choice but to confront her past and work alongside his client—the illegitimate son of an earl.
Alexander Grayson believes he knows who killed his brother. But he needs proof and cannot simply barge into a man’s home and rummage in his armoire. The perfect solution presents itself in the guise of a woman hiding from her past. But when the lady arrives expecting him to hire her as his enquiry agent, she is stunned to find he has a more shocking proposal.
Can a woman everyone believes is dead overcome her distrust of men?
Will the couple’s shared goals lead to more than friendship?
Alexander Grayson believes he knows who killed his brother. But he needs proof and cannot simply barge into a man’s home and rummage in his armoire. The perfect solution presents itself in the guise of a woman hiding from her past. But when the lady arrives expecting him to hire her as his enquiry agent, she is stunned to find he has a more shocking proposal.
Can a woman everyone believes is dead overcome her distrust of men?
Will the couple’s shared goals lead to more than friendship?
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2022
About the author
Adele Clee
56 books535 followersAdele Clee writes historical romance mysteries set in the early nineteenth century. Her stories blend romance with intrigue, gothic atmosphere, and a touch of scandal, often unfolding in Regency and early Victorian London. Readers praise her scarred heroines, brooding heroes, and the way love and mystery intertwine across each series.
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
Amazon - http://author.to/AdeleClee
Download the complete Adele Clee reading list here: https://www.adeleclee.com/booklist.html
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 13, 2022
"Regardless of why we married, know this means something to me. I have never wanted anything as badly as I want you."
4.5 stars!
Adele has once again written a beautiful story filled with her trademark danger, whodunnit mystery and sweeping romance! Miss Trimble has been a bit of mystery thus far in the series, but I loved being able to see her personality and strength blossom alongside Grayson in this story. The chemistry and love that developed between the two main characters was so unique, and I absolutely loved watching Grayson's confidence and carefree manner slowly breach Olivia's walls. It was also such a bittersweet read as we are saying goodbye to characters I've loved for 3 series now, but I cannot wait to see what comes next from Adele ♡
Tropes: marriage of convenience, fake relationship, hidden identity, heroine-in-danger, found family, band of brothers, murder mystery
*ARC provided by the author, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
September 9, 2024
⭐⭐
2 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some tiny bits in the beginning of the story were a little interesting.
Somewhat “older” heroine (30) 👍
➖ What I disliked:
The hero is too stereotypical in many different ways… his character is also disjointed/contradictory when it comes to his emotions and reactions.
Too much of insta-lust from the hero.
Underwhelming.
Not very interesting main characters.
Some parts are too rushed... while others dragged.
Romance/chemistry is unconvincing.
Some OTT scenes that are also awkward and weird/nonsensical.
Believability/plausibility issues/plot-holes.
(Why did the ruffians/thugs beat up the heroine like they did?… when they were told to kill the heroine and make her death seem like a suicide?
Why did the hero act like he did towards the heroine when he knew what the heroine had endured… he was too flirty and not very attentive or circumspect about the fact that the heroine was molested by the bad guys and could have and would have been raped by them if not stopped when and how they were.
Etc.)
June 13, 2022
Olivia Trimble has enjoyed making friends while serving as chaperone to Mr. Daventry’s female agents for the past year, but with them all married she knows she’ll need to find a new position soon. When he calls her to his office late at night, she assumes he intends to give her marching orders. Instead, Daventry had discovered her real name and her most guarded secret, leaving her no choice but to confront her demons, and giving her a partner to work with, his latest client, an earl’s illegitimate son.
Alexander Grayson has just started to suspect his brother’s death was no accident and he has his suspicions as to who is responsible. He only needs proof now, but that means he needs a valid reason to enter a private home. Olivia is the perfect solution, but she’s surprised to find that Alexander has something else in mind for her rather than hiring her as his enquiry agent, if she can overcome her distrust of men and hear him out.
I’ve always known there was more to the unprepossessing Miss Trimble than met the eye and I was so excited to learn she was getting her own story. I love it when a couple is married early on in a story and must work on their relationship from there. This story ticked all the boxes of marriage of convenience done right and I loved that they fell for one another quickly and yet nothing ever felt rushed or forced. Their connection was as recognizable to the reader as it was to the characters themselves. Even with her learned tendency to distrust men, Olivia knew from early on that Alexander would never hurt her and it didn’t take these two long to begin to lean on one another. My favorite element here was the fact that, although both Alexander and Olivia were frightened of love and how vulnerable it could make them, neither shied away from their feelings nor tried to deny them once they recognized them. That kept the angst limited only to the mystery aspects of the story and kept the romance dialed up. That balance is one of the reasons Adele’s stories are almost always a hit for me and she remains one of my favorite authors. Alexander and Olivia didn’t hesitate to lean on one another when they needed to and that instant loyalty between them was just catnip to me.
I have absolutely adored this series and Lucius Daventry, himself one of my favorite heroes, is the best matchmaker I’ve ever read. The fact that this matchmaker is a man just makes this series even more delicious to me. Lucius didn’t really have any family, so he created his own with his friends and men who consider him a brother, just as he does them. This particular story was perfect to end this series on, as Alexander was a special friend for Lucius, one he’d grown up with at boarding school and who had been similarly alone in the world. To see those two create this wonderful found family together was extra satisfying and the perfect way to leave things, for now anyway. I couldn't put this book down, while at the same time trying to savor that and I think that's the mark of a new favorite for me. This has been one of my favorite series ever, one of those rare occasions when I have loved every single installment, and it’ll be one of those few I seek out physical copies for my keeper shelf. I can’t wait to see where Adele is taking us next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Alexander Grayson has just started to suspect his brother’s death was no accident and he has his suspicions as to who is responsible. He only needs proof now, but that means he needs a valid reason to enter a private home. Olivia is the perfect solution, but she’s surprised to find that Alexander has something else in mind for her rather than hiring her as his enquiry agent, if she can overcome her distrust of men and hear him out.
I’ve always known there was more to the unprepossessing Miss Trimble than met the eye and I was so excited to learn she was getting her own story. I love it when a couple is married early on in a story and must work on their relationship from there. This story ticked all the boxes of marriage of convenience done right and I loved that they fell for one another quickly and yet nothing ever felt rushed or forced. Their connection was as recognizable to the reader as it was to the characters themselves. Even with her learned tendency to distrust men, Olivia knew from early on that Alexander would never hurt her and it didn’t take these two long to begin to lean on one another. My favorite element here was the fact that, although both Alexander and Olivia were frightened of love and how vulnerable it could make them, neither shied away from their feelings nor tried to deny them once they recognized them. That kept the angst limited only to the mystery aspects of the story and kept the romance dialed up. That balance is one of the reasons Adele’s stories are almost always a hit for me and she remains one of my favorite authors. Alexander and Olivia didn’t hesitate to lean on one another when they needed to and that instant loyalty between them was just catnip to me.
I have absolutely adored this series and Lucius Daventry, himself one of my favorite heroes, is the best matchmaker I’ve ever read. The fact that this matchmaker is a man just makes this series even more delicious to me. Lucius didn’t really have any family, so he created his own with his friends and men who consider him a brother, just as he does them. This particular story was perfect to end this series on, as Alexander was a special friend for Lucius, one he’d grown up with at boarding school and who had been similarly alone in the world. To see those two create this wonderful found family together was extra satisfying and the perfect way to leave things, for now anyway. I couldn't put this book down, while at the same time trying to savor that and I think that's the mark of a new favorite for me. This has been one of my favorite series ever, one of those rare occasions when I have loved every single installment, and it’ll be one of those few I seek out physical copies for my keeper shelf. I can’t wait to see where Adele is taking us next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
June 15, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
Miss Trimble/ Olivia was once a beautiful young Lady with her life before her, tragedy struck and left her running for her life, and hiding in Mr Daventry’s employ.
This is the last book in this wonderful series by Adele, I must say it’s one of the more intriguing and twisting tales of this excellent series.
A brilliant story full of twists and turns, just when you think you’ve cracked it, your wrong, and something else happens.
I LOVED IT!!!.
It was diverse and entertaining full of awesome characters, and sweet moments with Grayson and Olivia.
So looking forward to reading the next series from this brilliant writer.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
Miss Trimble/ Olivia was once a beautiful young Lady with her life before her, tragedy struck and left her running for her life, and hiding in Mr Daventry’s employ.
This is the last book in this wonderful series by Adele, I must say it’s one of the more intriguing and twisting tales of this excellent series.
A brilliant story full of twists and turns, just when you think you’ve cracked it, your wrong, and something else happens.
I LOVED IT!!!.
It was diverse and entertaining full of awesome characters, and sweet moments with Grayson and Olivia.
So looking forward to reading the next series from this brilliant writer.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
June 24, 2022
The perfect ending, The Perfect Couple
I'm sad to see this series come to an end but it was an outstanding way to end a series.
I have been waiting for Miss Trimble's story and as usual Adele saved the very best for last. I loved seeing the previous characters from this series!
She's been hiding behind a false name because she feared for her life until she meets her protector Mr. Greyson who is determined to get revenge for his brother's murder and with her help by marrying him they can not only solve his case but hers too. Along the way they find themselves falling in love with each other despite trying not to.
This historical romance has an incredible amount of happiness, mystery, suspense, love and laughter along with a very happily ever after.
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's views.
I'm sad to see this series come to an end but it was an outstanding way to end a series.
I have been waiting for Miss Trimble's story and as usual Adele saved the very best for last. I loved seeing the previous characters from this series!
She's been hiding behind a false name because she feared for her life until she meets her protector Mr. Greyson who is determined to get revenge for his brother's murder and with her help by marrying him they can not only solve his case but hers too. Along the way they find themselves falling in love with each other despite trying not to.
This historical romance has an incredible amount of happiness, mystery, suspense, love and laughter along with a very happily ever after.
I received this as a gift from the Author in exchange for an honest review and these are purely my thoughts and no one else's views.
Read
March 14, 2024
- marriage of convenience
- mystery to solve
- heroine hiding a secret identity
- protector hero
- mature couple
Available in ebook, paperback, audio and KU: https://amzn.to/3VzztgD
Short Excerpt:
“Marry me!”
Grayson watched the lady’s blue eyes widen. Her lips parted on a pant. For the umpteenth time this evening, he imagined closing his mouth over hers and tasting the woman he presumed had already agreed to be his wife.
“There must be some mistake.” She clutched the high collar of her green pelisse and faced Lucius Daventry as if he held the noose. “Tell me I misheard. Tell me you have not lured me here under false pretences.”
Daventry stood. “Your welfare is my only concern. Grayson will protect you, provide for you, give you the freedom an independent woman craves.”
“But only if I help prove my brother is a murdering snake.” Anger and fear infused every word. “I swore I would never be beholden to a man. Never!”
“’Tis I who would be beholden to you, my lady,” Grayson said. The need to solve the mystery of his brother’s death left him restless. Partly because he wanted to prove he was a better man than his kin. “Daventry is correct. As your husband, I will be duty-bound to protect you. No man nor devil will ever hurt you again.”
Her anxious gaze scanned the breadth of his shoulders. “Sir, I am in no doubt you have Hercules’ fortitude. But you’re asking me to trade my soul for a modicum of peace.”
Trade her soul?
Did she have a lover?
“Is your heart engaged elsewhere?” Unease settled in his chest. He would not take a wife who yearned for another man. He would not make love to a woman who wished he were someone else.
“My heart is my own, sir. I avoid male company at all costs.” She shuddered as if all men posed a threat. “Marriage is a sacred union. I meant I would be betraying myself if I married a man I did not love.”
He was surprised a woman of good breeding, one who had assumed a false identity, had such a romantic view of the world.
“Marriage may be deemed sacred. Love is not.” His parents had loved one another deeply. Amongst the ton, such sentiment was as rare as a moon at midday. “Love is open to bribery and manipulation. It can fade as quickly as stars amid the morning sun.” It could be ripped away in a heartbeat. “Is a union based on kindness, trust and loyalty not preferable to one based on something so fickle?”
Silence descended.
The wait for her reply tugged at his patience.
Daventry excused himself on the pretence of needing to speak to his coachman. He left them alone, which only sought to add to the tension.
“Ask me anything, my lady, and I shall give a truthful answer.”
She stared in disbelief, as if all men sought to weave complex deceptions. “Is your heart engaged elsewhere, Mr Grayson? Is that what my employer meant when he said this plan required a great sacrifice?”
“No. I am free to form an attachment.”
“This would be your first marriage?”
“My first and my last.”
“Have you ever loved a woman?”
“Only my mother. She died when I was five.” He barely remembered her now. How strange that such a distant memory still made him guarded. “I have cared for no one since.”
Her gaze journeyed down his form as if he were a prize bull at the fair. “But you have had r-relations, shared intimacies with women?”
“I’m a bachelor, not the pontiff.” He slapped his hand to his chest, ready to swear an oath. “You have my word. I shall not entertain another woman once we are wed. Not in thought nor deed.”
“Your need must be great if you’re willing to forgo affection.”
“I need a woman’s arousing touch like any other man.I had not planned on taking a vow of celibacy.”
Available in ebook, paperback, audio and KU: https://amzn.to/3VzztgD
June 20, 2022
Captivating read ; astounding writer!
Well, DAMN... I just loved, LOVED, Olivia and Alexander... and while I'm at it everything about this series!!
The sexual tension thrummed beneath the surface and created an entangling thread that weaved throughout the mystery, danger and intrigue so effortlessly. I was hooked, reeled in and never left wanting!
The chemistry between the pair was palpable, it had me smiling, my tummy cartwheeling and my eyes misty with tears. It made me care for them as individuals as well as a unit and an equally matched couple at that - one that under normal circumstances would probably never have met but are so perfect for each other that they need and complete the other so satisfyingly. As a result, I really found NO LIFE FOR A LADY to be cleverly written and well thoughout, not just in plot, in the creation of a mystery that's full of twists and turns that kept me guessing, but on a deeper emotional level. In the depth of the revelations of its characters, in the little nuances that make them who they are and how they think and in the pain of their histories, but mostly their emotional connections and the believability of their reactions, feelings and uncertainities!!
As a series, each book has captivated me with the partnerships created - and I mean partners in every sense of the word. Equal in wit, sharp intellect, pain and the need to be loved. Generating such wonderful escapism that plays and bounces around in your mind, making you second guess, want to delve deeper and quicken through the tale to seek the answers you so desperately desire, while, equally forcing you to savour the romance and wallow in their electric chemistry. So, just in case you haven't already realised how in awe I am at how polished this series (and its connected predecessors) have been, let me recap....
The characters shine with passion, devotion and strength yet a vulnerability hovers under the surface that is enhanced by emotions that feel raw, sweet, gritty and believable. Adding an element of reality to the drama and danger as they risk to protect each other no matter the cost. Where the romance interweaves throughout each page until your so addicted to them finding there happiness together you feel what they feel so keenly. And the friendships that provide the backbone of each tale, adds a warmth, levity and wit that has kept me quite literally coming back for more time and time again!! All this, combined within a great mystery you can so easily get caught up in and puzzle out for hours, well for me, your definitely onto a serious winner!
I already anticipate great things for the next series. Clee, truly deserves to be on everyone's auto read list as she's rightfully cemented her place on mine. And the fact I got to read it around my birthday... just heaven... best gift ever!!
A highly recommended read for those who like their romances entangled within a cloak of mystery, scheming and suspense!!
Well, DAMN... I just loved, LOVED, Olivia and Alexander... and while I'm at it everything about this series!!
The sexual tension thrummed beneath the surface and created an entangling thread that weaved throughout the mystery, danger and intrigue so effortlessly. I was hooked, reeled in and never left wanting!
The chemistry between the pair was palpable, it had me smiling, my tummy cartwheeling and my eyes misty with tears. It made me care for them as individuals as well as a unit and an equally matched couple at that - one that under normal circumstances would probably never have met but are so perfect for each other that they need and complete the other so satisfyingly. As a result, I really found NO LIFE FOR A LADY to be cleverly written and well thoughout, not just in plot, in the creation of a mystery that's full of twists and turns that kept me guessing, but on a deeper emotional level. In the depth of the revelations of its characters, in the little nuances that make them who they are and how they think and in the pain of their histories, but mostly their emotional connections and the believability of their reactions, feelings and uncertainities!!
As a series, each book has captivated me with the partnerships created - and I mean partners in every sense of the word. Equal in wit, sharp intellect, pain and the need to be loved. Generating such wonderful escapism that plays and bounces around in your mind, making you second guess, want to delve deeper and quicken through the tale to seek the answers you so desperately desire, while, equally forcing you to savour the romance and wallow in their electric chemistry. So, just in case you haven't already realised how in awe I am at how polished this series (and its connected predecessors) have been, let me recap....
The characters shine with passion, devotion and strength yet a vulnerability hovers under the surface that is enhanced by emotions that feel raw, sweet, gritty and believable. Adding an element of reality to the drama and danger as they risk to protect each other no matter the cost. Where the romance interweaves throughout each page until your so addicted to them finding there happiness together you feel what they feel so keenly. And the friendships that provide the backbone of each tale, adds a warmth, levity and wit that has kept me quite literally coming back for more time and time again!! All this, combined within a great mystery you can so easily get caught up in and puzzle out for hours, well for me, your definitely onto a serious winner!
I already anticipate great things for the next series. Clee, truly deserves to be on everyone's auto read list as she's rightfully cemented her place on mine. And the fact I got to read it around my birthday... just heaven... best gift ever!!
A highly recommended read for those who like their romances entangled within a cloak of mystery, scheming and suspense!!
June 16, 2022
This is the last book of this wonderful series; I am so sorry to see it end. But this story is a perfect ending after all the wonderful couples we have met alone the way.
Lucius Daventry has been in all the books; he oversees all agents both the men and the ladies. He is also the world's best match maker ever known. Anyone who has read any of the books knew Olivia Trimble was much more then she seemed and we were right. I was still shocked to find out who she really was and way she has been in hiding for seven years.
Alexander Grayson is the best friend of Lucius Daventry they meet at school and are both illegitimate sons of high raking men of the ton. Neither of their fathers wanted anything to do with them.
Olivia comes to Lucius thinking to be let go now that all the Ladies have married and moved on.
Instead, she is shocked when he tells her of a case, she can help him with. He also calls her by her real name not the one she has been hiding behind for seven years ! How did he find out ? The case is to help his friend, Grayson find who killed his brother three years ago. In order to work together and get into the house they need to they must marry. She doesn't trust men but feels safe and comfortable around the very large and oversized Grayson. Which makes no sense even to her. But working with Grayson may be the only way to find out why what happened to her and if her brother was to blame. Grayson also thinks he is the one who killed his brother.
This wonderful action-packed story has a ton of intrigue, mystery, lots of secrets and many surprises too. With our couple working not only on finding the guilty person's but also working on their new marriage there is so much romance, passion, witty conversions and yup love too.
You will cry, laugh, and cheer for them. Once you get started you will not be able to put it down.
Wow, what a story.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her this is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Lucius Daventry has been in all the books; he oversees all agents both the men and the ladies. He is also the world's best match maker ever known. Anyone who has read any of the books knew Olivia Trimble was much more then she seemed and we were right. I was still shocked to find out who she really was and way she has been in hiding for seven years.
Alexander Grayson is the best friend of Lucius Daventry they meet at school and are both illegitimate sons of high raking men of the ton. Neither of their fathers wanted anything to do with them.
Olivia comes to Lucius thinking to be let go now that all the Ladies have married and moved on.
Instead, she is shocked when he tells her of a case, she can help him with. He also calls her by her real name not the one she has been hiding behind for seven years ! How did he find out ? The case is to help his friend, Grayson find who killed his brother three years ago. In order to work together and get into the house they need to they must marry. She doesn't trust men but feels safe and comfortable around the very large and oversized Grayson. Which makes no sense even to her. But working with Grayson may be the only way to find out why what happened to her and if her brother was to blame. Grayson also thinks he is the one who killed his brother.
This wonderful action-packed story has a ton of intrigue, mystery, lots of secrets and many surprises too. With our couple working not only on finding the guilty person's but also working on their new marriage there is so much romance, passion, witty conversions and yup love too.
You will cry, laugh, and cheer for them. Once you get started you will not be able to put it down.
Wow, what a story.
I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her this is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
June 15, 2022
Who is Miss Trimble really. Master of the Order Lucius Daventry knows. She has been hiding from the ton for seven years ever since her brother tried to have her killed. So she believes. Alexander Grayson wants to know who killed his brother three years ago. The pair are matched by Daventry to solve the mysteries.
A entertaining well-written historical romantic mystery with mature content. Another good addition to this series with its likeable and interesting main characters, which can easiy be read as a standalone story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A entertaining well-written historical romantic mystery with mature content. Another good addition to this series with its likeable and interesting main characters, which can easiy be read as a standalone story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2022
The Perfect Match!
Miss Trimble, the ladies' Chaperone is having her chance to fall in love and she is the absolute perfect match for Alexander.
But just who is Miss Trimble? Her past will astound you, as it did me.
As for Alexander, he must find out who killed his brother and so the two are matched up to uncover these mysteries.
I loved how they fell in love in this sensual and extremely easy to read story.
Again, a really well written book and very much one to be read and enjoyed!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and this is my voluntary and unbiased review of it.
Miss Trimble, the ladies' Chaperone is having her chance to fall in love and she is the absolute perfect match for Alexander.
But just who is Miss Trimble? Her past will astound you, as it did me.
As for Alexander, he must find out who killed his brother and so the two are matched up to uncover these mysteries.
I loved how they fell in love in this sensual and extremely easy to read story.
Again, a really well written book and very much one to be read and enjoyed!
I read an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and this is my voluntary and unbiased review of it.
June 22, 2022
I always forget how good Adele Clee is until I read a new release of hers. She is such a great writer. I’ve been reading her books since 2016. This is my 31st book by her.
I am loving this series. I couldn’t put this book down either, just like all the others.
I loved Grayson and Olivia. That dang Daventry is such a matchmaker :) I love the suspense, intrigue, danger, love, hot sex! Haha..just so well written. Another great read.
I am loving this series. I couldn’t put this book down either, just like all the others.
I loved Grayson and Olivia. That dang Daventry is such a matchmaker :) I love the suspense, intrigue, danger, love, hot sex! Haha..just so well written. Another great read.
June 16, 2022
I want you. I need you. I love you. Those are some powerful words. Adele has done it again. Everything she writes is gold. I cannot tell you how much I love her writing and the way her stories reach into me and pull out all of the emotions. The relationship she builds between Alexander and Olivia is timeless and so perfect. Besides their building trust and love there is a mystery as with all of Adele’s books that is complex. You had me fooled again Adele. I thought I knew the villain but, surprise, I was close but did not fully guess. Amazing. Fabulous. I could continue gushing but I want to leave you with, go out and pick up one of Adele’s books and start a journey of fantastic proportions.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
June 13, 2022
I have been anticipating Miss Trimble's story since the beginning of the series. She has always taken care of the women who came to The Order, and I wanted a happy ending for her! I was absolutely shocked as to who she really was and what she had been through - and then she met Alexander Grayson.
Alexander needs the help of The Order to find out who murdered his brother and so Miss Trimble and Grayson are paired up to investigate but boy or boy do they open an intertwining can of murder, deceit, that also ties Miss Trimble to the investigation of the murder of Alexander's brother. But the marriage of convenience they agreed to has romance, passion, wooing, and it keeps building as the work closely together. This was a sexy, sensual, page turning romance with exciting mystery and intrigue. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Alexander needs the help of The Order to find out who murdered his brother and so Miss Trimble and Grayson are paired up to investigate but boy or boy do they open an intertwining can of murder, deceit, that also ties Miss Trimble to the investigation of the murder of Alexander's brother. But the marriage of convenience they agreed to has romance, passion, wooing, and it keeps building as the work closely together. This was a sexy, sensual, page turning romance with exciting mystery and intrigue. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
June 23, 2022
No Life For a Lady is the final installment in Adele Clee’s Ladies of the Order series and it is a fabulous and fitting end.
Miss Trimble has always been an important secondary character in the previous books. She is the housekeeper for the intrepid female agents employed by Lucius Daventry. She was always fiercely protective of the ladies but her own background was a bit of a mystery. She finally has her own story told and it provides answers and a fitting end to the series.
Miss Trimble or Lady Olivia as is her real name has been on the run and in hiding for seven years. Seven years ago she was set upon and almost murdered. She does not know who sent the thugs but evidence points to her own brother. Managing to escape and fearing for her life she never returned to her ancestral home. She found a sense of contentment with the Ladies of the Order until one by one they all married and moved away. She realises that there is no longer a need for her services. Being summoned by her employer Lucius Daventry she is fully expecting to be let go but is alarmed to find that Daventry knows who she is and that she is in hiding. Daventry’s plan for Olivia to face her fears and find out who tried to kill her hinges on Olivia joining forces with Alexander Grayson who is looking for his brother’s murderer. His solution shockingly is marriage. Can Olivia overcome her distrust of men and place her life in the hands of a stranger?
Alexander Grayson has always been shunned by his family as the illegitimate son who inherited the bulk of his father’s wealth. Having lived a solitary life with little love he still feels duty bound to discover who killed his brother. He needs Olivia to help gain access to crucial information. Can Olivia and Grayson overcome the past and forge a lifelong bond within their pretence of a love match?
I very much liked Olivia and Grayson. Both are attracted to each other straightaway, but Olivia is naturally wary at first. Grayson is the first to acknowledge his attraction but is patient and happy to wait to gain Olivia’s trust. Both Grayson and Olivia’s relationship developed naturally and it was nice to watch it grow. There is little angst between them. The relationship felt mature.
As ever though, there is plenty of mystery and action in the story. The plot has twists and turns and works with the development of the romance. The murderer was not obvious and I did not have any indication till the end. It was good to see the involvement of past characters and couples who all played a part in the story. It’s really amusing to see Lucius Daventry’s evolvement from fierce leader to matchmaker! The epilogue was great as a rounding off of the stories of the Gentleman and Ladies of the Order and also as a neat introduction to Adele’s next series.
I was gifted an ARC of this story but all opinions are my own. Definitely looking forward to Adele’s next series.
Miss Trimble has always been an important secondary character in the previous books. She is the housekeeper for the intrepid female agents employed by Lucius Daventry. She was always fiercely protective of the ladies but her own background was a bit of a mystery. She finally has her own story told and it provides answers and a fitting end to the series.
Miss Trimble or Lady Olivia as is her real name has been on the run and in hiding for seven years. Seven years ago she was set upon and almost murdered. She does not know who sent the thugs but evidence points to her own brother. Managing to escape and fearing for her life she never returned to her ancestral home. She found a sense of contentment with the Ladies of the Order until one by one they all married and moved away. She realises that there is no longer a need for her services. Being summoned by her employer Lucius Daventry she is fully expecting to be let go but is alarmed to find that Daventry knows who she is and that she is in hiding. Daventry’s plan for Olivia to face her fears and find out who tried to kill her hinges on Olivia joining forces with Alexander Grayson who is looking for his brother’s murderer. His solution shockingly is marriage. Can Olivia overcome her distrust of men and place her life in the hands of a stranger?
Alexander Grayson has always been shunned by his family as the illegitimate son who inherited the bulk of his father’s wealth. Having lived a solitary life with little love he still feels duty bound to discover who killed his brother. He needs Olivia to help gain access to crucial information. Can Olivia and Grayson overcome the past and forge a lifelong bond within their pretence of a love match?
I very much liked Olivia and Grayson. Both are attracted to each other straightaway, but Olivia is naturally wary at first. Grayson is the first to acknowledge his attraction but is patient and happy to wait to gain Olivia’s trust. Both Grayson and Olivia’s relationship developed naturally and it was nice to watch it grow. There is little angst between them. The relationship felt mature.
As ever though, there is plenty of mystery and action in the story. The plot has twists and turns and works with the development of the romance. The murderer was not obvious and I did not have any indication till the end. It was good to see the involvement of past characters and couples who all played a part in the story. It’s really amusing to see Lucius Daventry’s evolvement from fierce leader to matchmaker! The epilogue was great as a rounding off of the stories of the Gentleman and Ladies of the Order and also as a neat introduction to Adele’s next series.
I was gifted an ARC of this story but all opinions are my own. Definitely looking forward to Adele’s next series.
October 25, 2023
5 STARS, KIDNAPPED, MURDER, LOVE
Book 5 definitely gets all 5 STARS, & A few more if they were available. This being the last of the Series of Ladies of the Order has kept up with the quality of all books in this series & any others in the other Order series. A BLURB is provided that is excellent & has one hurriedly obtaining a copy to read. Characters are wonderful & some are from this series & other Order series so we who read them see them as old friends; if you aren't a regular fan it doesn't matter because you get your introduction to them here.
Once again a well written storyline full of intrigue, mystery, & drama that however leaves us guessing til the end who the murderer really is & the why is surprising. Daventry introduces his Lady agents chaperone whom he doesn't need anymore, because they have all married, Miss Trimble to his old school chum the Lord S Turlock is bastard Mr Alexander Grayson.
Miss Trimble is really Lady Olivia Durrant, considered dead for seven years! They found her body hanging in the North Woods, had found a strange note expressing not wanting to remain with unhappiness in her room, & buried her body in the family's tomb. Of course someone had attempted to kill her & she got free & was hidden before leaving to work as a ladies companion going abroad & a governess. She had changed her name several times before she kept Trimble & lucked out with her job with the Order. Daventry knew she had a secret but was waiting for her to come forward but she had been recognized by one of the Ladies new husband's recently & he knew he had to tell her. Grayson needed her help & she needed to be cared for so why not get married.
Their marriage announcement in the newspaper was the way that they let everyone know she was alive. She wanted to find out why her brother wanted her dead, was it just for her inheritance & Grayson thought he had killed his brother plus one other member of his club.
A weird club they called themselves the Seven Devils & each took a name of the seven deadly sins as his nickname. They had some secret meetings but got together for regular house parties. Grayson & Olivia had to investigate the Devils as they got to know one another , felt an amazing sensual sexual chemistry, & the embers of love.
Fast paced and smart read. Exciting! ATTENTION: SEXUAL ACTIVITY INSIDE
RECOMMEND. RECOMMEND
This is
Book 5 definitely gets all 5 STARS, & A few more if they were available. This being the last of the Series of Ladies of the Order has kept up with the quality of all books in this series & any others in the other Order series. A BLURB is provided that is excellent & has one hurriedly obtaining a copy to read. Characters are wonderful & some are from this series & other Order series so we who read them see them as old friends; if you aren't a regular fan it doesn't matter because you get your introduction to them here.
Once again a well written storyline full of intrigue, mystery, & drama that however leaves us guessing til the end who the murderer really is & the why is surprising. Daventry introduces his Lady agents chaperone whom he doesn't need anymore, because they have all married, Miss Trimble to his old school chum the Lord S Turlock is bastard Mr Alexander Grayson.
Miss Trimble is really Lady Olivia Durrant, considered dead for seven years! They found her body hanging in the North Woods, had found a strange note expressing not wanting to remain with unhappiness in her room, & buried her body in the family's tomb. Of course someone had attempted to kill her & she got free & was hidden before leaving to work as a ladies companion going abroad & a governess. She had changed her name several times before she kept Trimble & lucked out with her job with the Order. Daventry knew she had a secret but was waiting for her to come forward but she had been recognized by one of the Ladies new husband's recently & he knew he had to tell her. Grayson needed her help & she needed to be cared for so why not get married.
Their marriage announcement in the newspaper was the way that they let everyone know she was alive. She wanted to find out why her brother wanted her dead, was it just for her inheritance & Grayson thought he had killed his brother plus one other member of his club.
A weird club they called themselves the Seven Devils & each took a name of the seven deadly sins as his nickname. They had some secret meetings but got together for regular house parties. Grayson & Olivia had to investigate the Devils as they got to know one another , felt an amazing sensual sexual chemistry, & the embers of love.
Fast paced and smart read. Exciting! ATTENTION: SEXUAL ACTIVITY INSIDE
RECOMMEND. RECOMMEND
This is
January 25, 2024
A wonderful novel, it is not for nothing that it has the highest rating among the author’s books.
For me, Adele Clee, the shortcomings of the author’s books are the volume of the book, which is more consistent with a short story than a full-fledged novel, and because of this, as well as because the author is trying to combine a full-fledged detective story and a love line, we often see an inferior, completely superficial and implausible a love story or a predictable investigation that is more suitable for games between two lovers who do not know whether to investigate, or have sex in every carriage, under every tree or empty room, etc. But in this book, the author managed, in an equally short format, to implement a complex and interesting investigation, in which the best agents of Daventry are involved, and to create a realistic, romantic love story with mature heroes who get to know each other, communicate, and not just fuck at every turn. And reading the book, I believe in their love, the hero is a good man who has been lonely all his life and the heroine’s trials in life forced her to grow up and appreciate such a man, I’m glad that there is no “incomparable handsome” alpha male always obsessed with sex. I liked the intimate moments of the couple - they are hot, but everything in moderation, without jumping on your knees with your skirt lifted up in every free minute, and the couple devotes an equal amount of time to conducting the investigation, getting to know each other and personal relationships. Yes, of course, if the author increased the volume of the book by a third, then we would see a more realistic relationship than “love in a week,” but this is the author’s format and the fact that the investigation is interesting, multifaceted and not so predictable and the attitude of the characters is harmonious, more than ordinary lust, makes this The book is the best of the author's many books and deserves attention.
Personally, I noticed that if the rating of an author’s book on the site is less than 4.5, then it will be complete trash.
For me, Adele Clee, the shortcomings of the author’s books are the volume of the book, which is more consistent with a short story than a full-fledged novel, and because of this, as well as because the author is trying to combine a full-fledged detective story and a love line, we often see an inferior, completely superficial and implausible a love story or a predictable investigation that is more suitable for games between two lovers who do not know whether to investigate, or have sex in every carriage, under every tree or empty room, etc. But in this book, the author managed, in an equally short format, to implement a complex and interesting investigation, in which the best agents of Daventry are involved, and to create a realistic, romantic love story with mature heroes who get to know each other, communicate, and not just fuck at every turn. And reading the book, I believe in their love, the hero is a good man who has been lonely all his life and the heroine’s trials in life forced her to grow up and appreciate such a man, I’m glad that there is no “incomparable handsome” alpha male always obsessed with sex. I liked the intimate moments of the couple - they are hot, but everything in moderation, without jumping on your knees with your skirt lifted up in every free minute, and the couple devotes an equal amount of time to conducting the investigation, getting to know each other and personal relationships. Yes, of course, if the author increased the volume of the book by a third, then we would see a more realistic relationship than “love in a week,” but this is the author’s format and the fact that the investigation is interesting, multifaceted and not so predictable and the attitude of the characters is harmonious, more than ordinary lust, makes this The book is the best of the author's many books and deserves attention.
Personally, I noticed that if the rating of an author’s book on the site is less than 4.5, then it will be complete trash.
June 21, 2022
Two Damaged Hearts Against Evil
He's handsome, wealthy and illegitimate. She's beautiful, poor and in hiding. Together they my just be what the other has been needing to heal a deeply scarred heart.
Adele Clee is one of my all-time favorite authors. Her writing skill pulls me into her vivid imagination and the 21st century disappears into the 19th century. In fact, I am always a bit sorry when I come to The End.
No Life for a Lady is the last book in The Ladies of the Order series (sigh), but it is by no means the least. Just so you know, it is a stand alone tale, but it would be more enjoyable if you read the preceding books. All of the books in this series are in the 5-stars category.
Now, having read the prior four books, I was anxious to find out what “Miss Trimble” has been hiding about her past. Oh my, I was not disappointed. Which brings me to Mr. Alexander Grayson. Wow, what a hunk of a man. I think I'm in love. Though they have a rocky start, together they will put their brokenness behind them and run full speed into solving the mystery and bring justice upon the guilty.
All in all, this is one very entertaining book!!
Content 411: This book contains secular and religious swearing, a vulgarity, sex talk and descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
He's handsome, wealthy and illegitimate. She's beautiful, poor and in hiding. Together they my just be what the other has been needing to heal a deeply scarred heart.
Adele Clee is one of my all-time favorite authors. Her writing skill pulls me into her vivid imagination and the 21st century disappears into the 19th century. In fact, I am always a bit sorry when I come to The End.
No Life for a Lady is the last book in The Ladies of the Order series (sigh), but it is by no means the least. Just so you know, it is a stand alone tale, but it would be more enjoyable if you read the preceding books. All of the books in this series are in the 5-stars category.
Now, having read the prior four books, I was anxious to find out what “Miss Trimble” has been hiding about her past. Oh my, I was not disappointed. Which brings me to Mr. Alexander Grayson. Wow, what a hunk of a man. I think I'm in love. Though they have a rocky start, together they will put their brokenness behind them and run full speed into solving the mystery and bring justice upon the guilty.
All in all, this is one very entertaining book!!
Content 411: This book contains secular and religious swearing, a vulgarity, sex talk and descriptive sex scenes.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
May 19, 2023
Great HR read with just the right amount of romance, mystery, and suspense! This is not my first book with Adele Clee, I must say I really liked her pacing and storytelling, many things are happening in the story but you won't feel lost at all. However, some dialogues can be improved, idk if it's also because there were too many characters but sometimes it can get a little bit confusing. I absolutely loved both MC's! (which is rare for me), the MMC was very honorable and charming. The FMC was headstrong, bold and very determined.
The mystery is quite mind-boggling, it actually kept me guessing til' the end. It has a bit of action too (which I also liked) and oohhh, the spicy moments too, it was hot and passionate. I loved how despite being in denial at first, these two didn't go into circles about their feelings for each other. When they have finally realized it, they actually accepted those feelings quite easily instead of running away from it. Gosh, the mmc was also so so sweet to the fmc.
The side characters and friendships here are also so cute and just so heartwarming! Their friends are always there for them, whatever happens they always got each other's backs. The villains got their comeuppance though it felt like it all just happened so quickly, just like that. Still satisfied with the ending. Definitely not going to be my last read from Adele Clee, nice HR read!
The mystery is quite mind-boggling, it actually kept me guessing til' the end. It has a bit of action too (which I also liked) and oohhh, the spicy moments too, it was hot and passionate. I loved how despite being in denial at first, these two didn't go into circles about their feelings for each other. When they have finally realized it, they actually accepted those feelings quite easily instead of running away from it. Gosh, the mmc was also so so sweet to the fmc.
The side characters and friendships here are also so cute and just so heartwarming! Their friends are always there for them, whatever happens they always got each other's backs. The villains got their comeuppance though it felt like it all just happened so quickly, just like that. Still satisfied with the ending. Definitely not going to be my last read from Adele Clee, nice HR read!
July 1, 2022
Good book
This book is more of a murder mystery than just a love story.
After almost a year spent playing chaperone to Mr Daventry’s female enquiry agents, Miss Trimble knows she must find a new position. All his agents are married, and so what other reason could he have for calling her to his office late at night? Except her employer is a master matchmaker, a man who has discovered her true identity, knows her real name and her darkest secret. A man who leaves her no choice but to confront her past and work alongside his client—the illegitimate son of an earl.
Alexander Grayson believes he knows who killed his brother. But he needs proof and cannot simply barge into a man’s home and rummage in his armoire. The perfect solution presents itself in the guise of a woman hiding from her past. But when the lady arrives expecting him to hire her as his enquiry agent, she is stunned to find he has a more shocking proposal.
Can a woman everyone believes is dead overcome her distrust of men?
Will the couple’s shared goals lead to more than friendship?
Can they make a difference ?
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
This book is more of a murder mystery than just a love story.
After almost a year spent playing chaperone to Mr Daventry’s female enquiry agents, Miss Trimble knows she must find a new position. All his agents are married, and so what other reason could he have for calling her to his office late at night? Except her employer is a master matchmaker, a man who has discovered her true identity, knows her real name and her darkest secret. A man who leaves her no choice but to confront her past and work alongside his client—the illegitimate son of an earl.
Alexander Grayson believes he knows who killed his brother. But he needs proof and cannot simply barge into a man’s home and rummage in his armoire. The perfect solution presents itself in the guise of a woman hiding from her past. But when the lady arrives expecting him to hire her as his enquiry agent, she is stunned to find he has a more shocking proposal.
Can a woman everyone believes is dead overcome her distrust of men?
Will the couple’s shared goals lead to more than friendship?
Can they make a difference ?
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
June 20, 2022
I was able to read an advance copy of No Life for a Lady, & was excited to dig in. What a bombshell of a first chapter!
Olivia Trimble has always been a bit of a mysterious figure in the previous books. It was great to finally get inside her head & hear her story. After reading what Olivia’s gone through, it’s easy to understand why she’s kept herself virtually hidden, & has a healthy dose of skepticism regarding men. When she meets Alexander Grayson, I think she’s surprised to find her usual distrust of men doesn’t seem to apply w/him. I think their mutually beneficial relationship ends up being one of the best in the series.
By this point, I didn’t doubt Daventry had made another brilliant match, but I still looked forward to the steps involved in the characters realizing it, while successfully solving the case. One of my favorite things about Adele Clee’s books is that there’s usually a fascinating case or mystery to solve along the way. I honestly couldn’t guess who was going to be revealed as the culprit in this one.
I’ve really enjoyed this series & am going to miss these characters. Maybe they’ll continue to pop up here & there in the next series.
Olivia Trimble has always been a bit of a mysterious figure in the previous books. It was great to finally get inside her head & hear her story. After reading what Olivia’s gone through, it’s easy to understand why she’s kept herself virtually hidden, & has a healthy dose of skepticism regarding men. When she meets Alexander Grayson, I think she’s surprised to find her usual distrust of men doesn’t seem to apply w/him. I think their mutually beneficial relationship ends up being one of the best in the series.
By this point, I didn’t doubt Daventry had made another brilliant match, but I still looked forward to the steps involved in the characters realizing it, while successfully solving the case. One of my favorite things about Adele Clee’s books is that there’s usually a fascinating case or mystery to solve along the way. I honestly couldn’t guess who was going to be revealed as the culprit in this one.
I’ve really enjoyed this series & am going to miss these characters. Maybe they’ll continue to pop up here & there in the next series.
June 22, 2022
Miss Trimble/Olivia has been a mystery since she first appeared at the beginning of the series and I always wondered about her past and how she came to work for Mr Daventry. Her story is very dramatic involving abduction and attempted murder. Mr Grayson also has a very richly detailed background with his own family problems, however, it is their attraction to each other and the development of their romance which really pulled me in. Even though they married each other less than 24 hours after meeting their actual romance did not seem rushed. Their good natures, their teasing of each other, the banter and flirting meant that their relationship felt natural rather than forced.
The mystery was cleverly devised and I erroneously thought on more than one occasion that I had it figured out. The clever twists and the suspense filled scenes kept me hooked and turning the pages. The romantic element was really lovely and heartwarming. I'm sad the series is finished but I'm excited that a new series is in the works.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy provided by the publisher.
The mystery was cleverly devised and I erroneously thought on more than one occasion that I had it figured out. The clever twists and the suspense filled scenes kept me hooked and turning the pages. The romantic element was really lovely and heartwarming. I'm sad the series is finished but I'm excited that a new series is in the works.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy provided by the publisher.
July 5, 2022
Marry for revenge
Grayson aka Alexander has a plan for revenge and he needs an agent and the help of Mr Daventry. Olivia has dreaded going to his office knowing all her charges are gone and married and use is she to him!? He exposes her secrets and awakens a thirst for revenge along with a very strong reaction to one Grayson who is also seeking revenge!
When these collide as well as their mutual revenge with the same plans one tiny detail is omitted! They must marry. Olivia and Alexander embark on a whirlwind of revenge, murder intrigue and obnoxious family. In the midst of all the mayhem these two find out that Mr Daventry is a master matchmaker!
Olivia is the daughter of an Earl but been in hiding for 7 years. Grayson is a man’s man! What a hero!
These two embark on an adventure that will lead to love but can Grayson survive as they have been shot at and he has another grievous injury!??? There is nonstop action and steam in this story to fog glasses. Especially how Grayson survives being shot at... Read on! Bravo!!!
Grayson aka Alexander has a plan for revenge and he needs an agent and the help of Mr Daventry. Olivia has dreaded going to his office knowing all her charges are gone and married and use is she to him!? He exposes her secrets and awakens a thirst for revenge along with a very strong reaction to one Grayson who is also seeking revenge!
When these collide as well as their mutual revenge with the same plans one tiny detail is omitted! They must marry. Olivia and Alexander embark on a whirlwind of revenge, murder intrigue and obnoxious family. In the midst of all the mayhem these two find out that Mr Daventry is a master matchmaker!
Olivia is the daughter of an Earl but been in hiding for 7 years. Grayson is a man’s man! What a hero!
These two embark on an adventure that will lead to love but can Grayson survive as they have been shot at and he has another grievous injury!??? There is nonstop action and steam in this story to fog glasses. Especially how Grayson survives being shot at... Read on! Bravo!!!
September 5, 2022
Whodunnit? That's always the big question that stays with you until the end when you read one of Ms. Clee's books. She writes such intriguing mysteries that you start a book and can't put it down until the end. 'No Life for a Lady' is, unfortunately, the last book in the 'Ladies of the Order' series but we do get treated to a final family reunion. Oh, how I love all the characters we have met over time. And we get Ms. Trimble's story. What is poor Olivia going to do now that all the other ladies have gotten married? Poor Ms. Trimble? No, not when your employer loves to play matchmaker. Leave it up to Daventry to give Olivia her own happily-ever-after. Btw, I always had the suspicion that there was more to Olivia than just being a chaperone to the ladies. This final story is the perfect ending to a perfect series. And though I hate to see this series end, I am, at the same time, looking forward to the next adventure.
June 23, 2022
What can I say about this series, about Adele Clee and about this book, but I totally enjoyed everything. I think this book is a great way to end the series and it answered some questions that were in the back of my mind about Miss Trimble. Olivia Trimble has been in the previous books, and I always wondered if there was more to her, what was her story, well I found out in this book. Alexander thinks he knows who killed his brother, but he needs proof. This is where Olivia and Alexander get together. I really do not want to say much, because I do not want to give anything away. But I will tell you there is love and mystery in this book and it kept me totally engaged.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest opinion.
August 4, 2022
**I don't like giving away spoilers but do want to mention a possible trigger warning: the h experienced a trauma during which she was badly beaten, molested and left for dead, and though the details emerge only vaguely as the book goes on, this might upset some readers.**
A strong end to such a fabulous series, and while this entry isn't my favorite, it balances the mystery, romance, and appearances by past characters well. It might be the darkest but also the raciest of the series, with spicy (consensual) situations, allusions, and thoughts between the MC's. They have excellent chemistry and you really do believe they're in love and want to root for their HEA. (I loved the notes they wrote to each other!)
While I've never read a book by Ms. Clee I didn't like, and the mystery is resolved pretty well, there are a few nitpicks:
--The h brings up early on that if her death was meant to be staged as a suicide, it made no sense for the thugs to beat her to a pulp, especially her face. Why they did this is never accounted for. You'd have thought the main villain would have stressed to them that it look like suicide to avoid attention from the authorities. They would have needed to find a back-up body regardless of h's escape.
--I ended up liking the H, but wasn't sure about him at first. Considering what the h had been through, you would have thought his comments early on would have been more circumspect and less flirty. When he asks if she's ever been intimate with a man, for example, why does he seem to completely ignore the fact she could have been raped by the thugs? It's an awkward scene.
--I liked the realistic portrayal of the h as a survivor who is struggling with her fears, but there was a rather sketchily described scene when she confronts her brother with the H and finds out something the H had neglected to tell her. She grabs for the gun on the table and aims it--we don't know whether it's at H or brother but the assumption is H. Pretty over-the-top, especially since something she hasn't mentioned from her past ends up being much more important to the case.
--The secondary characters are by no means subtle. Dr. Pearce is probably my favorite minor character. And I have to mention............................................................(WARNING: SPOILER AHEAD.....................................................) Poor Hamilton. Felt like the author left him to be the whipping boy.
Overall: the steamiest book in the series, possibly the darkest, and a very good if not perfect wrap-up.
A strong end to such a fabulous series, and while this entry isn't my favorite, it balances the mystery, romance, and appearances by past characters well. It might be the darkest but also the raciest of the series, with spicy (consensual) situations, allusions, and thoughts between the MC's. They have excellent chemistry and you really do believe they're in love and want to root for their HEA. (I loved the notes they wrote to each other!)
While I've never read a book by Ms. Clee I didn't like, and the mystery is resolved pretty well, there are a few nitpicks:
--The h brings up early on that if her death was meant to be staged as a suicide, it made no sense for the thugs to beat her to a pulp, especially her face. Why they did this is never accounted for. You'd have thought the main villain would have stressed to them that it look like suicide to avoid attention from the authorities. They would have needed to find a back-up body regardless of h's escape.
--I ended up liking the H, but wasn't sure about him at first. Considering what the h had been through, you would have thought his comments early on would have been more circumspect and less flirty. When he asks if she's ever been intimate with a man, for example, why does he seem to completely ignore the fact she could have been raped by the thugs? It's an awkward scene.
--I liked the realistic portrayal of the h as a survivor who is struggling with her fears, but there was a rather sketchily described scene when she confronts her brother with the H and finds out something the H had neglected to tell her. She grabs for the gun on the table and aims it--we don't know whether it's at H or brother but the assumption is H. Pretty over-the-top, especially since something she hasn't mentioned from her past ends up being much more important to the case.
--The secondary characters are by no means subtle. Dr. Pearce is probably my favorite minor character. And I have to mention............................................................(WARNING: SPOILER AHEAD.....................................................) Poor Hamilton. Felt like the author left him to be the whipping boy.
Overall: the steamiest book in the series, possibly the darkest, and a very good if not perfect wrap-up.
June 21, 2022
A perfect end to a great series. The mysterious Miss Trimble was clearly hiding something and was always fearful and looking over her shoulder. Her employer, Lucius Daventry has not decided it is time she confronted her past and in doing so also help his close friend Alexander Grayson. Daventry loves to play matchmaker but the these two will need to survive the people trying to harm them while they try to uncover the truth about their inter connected history. A plot with great characters, manipulation, twists and turns, sadness, jealousy, obsession, humour, love and romance. An enjoyable read. I received a copy from the author but my review is my own.
December 10, 2022
Finding love
A beautifully written story. I absolutely loved Grayson & Olivia’s story. She was left for dead when she was rescued. Olivia lived a lie for seven years know Daventry wants her to resume he identity when everyone believes she’s dead.
Grayson is illegitimate and has known Daventry since school when he suggests marrying Olivia so they both can put closure to their dilemmas he agrees.
Olivia is shocked what he suggests but agrees.
They both believe her brother Hamilton is responsible for her beating and 2 deaths but things are not what they appear.
As Olivia and Grayson grow closure so does a manipulator and killer.
A wonderful story with a beautiful ending.
A beautifully written story. I absolutely loved Grayson & Olivia’s story. She was left for dead when she was rescued. Olivia lived a lie for seven years know Daventry wants her to resume he identity when everyone believes she’s dead.
Grayson is illegitimate and has known Daventry since school when he suggests marrying Olivia so they both can put closure to their dilemmas he agrees.
Olivia is shocked what he suggests but agrees.
They both believe her brother Hamilton is responsible for her beating and 2 deaths but things are not what they appear.
As Olivia and Grayson grow closure so does a manipulator and killer.
A wonderful story with a beautiful ending.
June 23, 2022
OMG I can’t believe this is the last story of The Order. Finally Miss Trimble’s story. Such a great and twisted tale. Lucius Daventry introduces Mr Grayson as in need of an enquiry agent but Miss Trimble isn’t an agent. But Miss Trimble isn’t Miss Trimble either! She needs to come out of hiding to help Alexander Grayson find who killed his brother. Somehow it must be linked to whoever tried to kill her. Couldn’t put it down and I’m sad it’s the last one. Can’t wait for a new series!
I received an ARC copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2022
This might just be my favorite of the series. I do like the marriage of convenience trope, wherein the couple slowly - or not so slowly - fall in love. To boot there are also the mysteries in the past of both main characters, Olivia and Alexander, to solve. Very well woven story.
The story kept me engrossed until the very end of the epilogue, with a glimpse towards the next series. Just all-around great read.
I read a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.
The story kept me engrossed until the very end of the epilogue, with a glimpse towards the next series. Just all-around great read.
I read a free advance copy; the thoughts expressed are my own.
July 6, 2022
This is a super last instalment in this series. I have enjoyed all the books related to the Order. It is nice to find out who Olivia is and why she is in hiding. This story has a good plot which is complex and unexpected. Olivia and Grayson are characters that lure you into the plot and what they are experiencing. I must reread all of the books about the male and female members of the Order as well as Lucius Daventry’s story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews