Who Would Like This Book:
If you love your Regency romance dripping with sassy heroines, brooding dukes, and a band of mischievous, loyal rakes (with a big dash of witty banter), "Wicked Designs" is pure catnip. The pace is fast, the camaraderie among the League of Rogues is heartwarming, and the heroine, Emily, more than holds her own against her not-so-gentlemanly captors. It's got danger, humor, steamy moments, and plenty of escapist fun - perfect for readers who want to get lost in a historical romance world full of daring plots and roguish charmers.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you’re not a fan of dubious morality (starting with the kidnapping premise), alpha male antics, or heroines who adapt a little too quickly to their captors, this one might make you cringe. Some readers found the plot over-the-top and the characters’ actions inconsistent (and sometimes infuriating). Plus, there’s a touch of Stockholm Syndrome and repeated drugging that didn’t sit well with everyone. If you prefer your historical romances with strictly chivalrous heroes or super believable character motivations, consider skipping this.
About:
'Wicked Designs' in the series 'The League of Rogues' by Lauren Smith tells the story of Emily, a feisty and intelligent young woman who is kidnapped by Godric, the Duke of Essex, and his friends as a form of revenge against her uncle. Despite the initial intentions, a love story unfolds as Emily and Godric develop a complex relationship. The plot involves themes of adventure, romance, and intrigue set in the Regency era, with a writing style that blends humor, mystery, and passionate dialogue.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of kidnapping, forced situations, and depictions of consent that may be sensitive for some readers.
Has Romance?
There is a high level of romance present throughout the story, with a strong romantic arc between the main characters.
From The Publisher:
The League of Rogues takes what they want-but have they taken on too much?
For too long Miss Emily Parr has been subject to the whims of her indebted uncle and the lecherous advances of his repulsive business partner. Her plan to be done with dominating men forever is simple-find herself a kind husband who will leave her to her books.
It seems an easy enough plan, until she is unexpectedly abducted by an incorrigible duke who hides a wounded spirit behind flashing green eyes.
Godric St. Laurent, Duke of Essex, spends countless nights at the club with his four best friends, and relishes the rakish reputation society has branded him with. He has no plans to marry anytime soon-if ever. But when he kidnaps an embezzler's niece, the difficult debutante's blend of sweetness and sharp tongue make him desperate for the one thing he swears he never wanted: love.
Yet as they surrender to passion, danger lurks in Godric's shadowed past, waiting for him to drop his guard-and rob him of the woman he can't live without.
Warning: This novel includes a lady who refuses to stay kidnapped, a devilish duke with a dark past, and an assortment of charming rogues who have no idea what they've gotten themselves into.
Ratings (2)
Loved It (1) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (4):
Read It (2) | |
Want To Read (2) |
What can you read after
Wicked Designs?
About the Author:
Lauren Smith is an Oklahoma attorney by day and USA Today bestselling author by night who pens adventurous and edgy romance stories. Her novels have garnered multiple awards, including the New England Readers' Choice Award and the Greater Detroit Booksellers' Best Award. Find out more at laurensmithbooks.com.
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