Perfect historical romance. Low drama, high steam and well written characters. Easy plotline to help keep those pages turning.

First off, I love the books cover. Second I love the start off of the book with a gunshot. The book was entertaining to me in certain parts of the story. Nick, Nathaniel,and Alice I thought were all strong characters. Adelaide kind of threw my opinion off about her when she quote unquote, swoon after she fired the gun.
What did she think what was going to happen? The dialogue and narrative was great. The narrative was simple and stuck to the point of the story. Great job with the book.

If you’re a fan of Bridgerton/The Duke and I, then this is the book for you! This book is packed with thrilling secrets and scandals and romance. This book was such a fun read and I really enjoyed it. It was the standard historical romance in London, but that’s never a bad thing! This book did put its own spin on the scandals that took place.

I did find Adelaide to get kind of annoying sometimes, but she was manageable by the ending. Note: this is the second book in the series, but you can read it as a stand alone like I did. Apparently, there are character cross overs, so it would be super interesting to read the other books and get more insight into them!

This book was pretty good and was enjoyable! If you’re a fan of steamy historical romance, then definitely read this one! Elizabeth Bright seems to be a great author and I’ll be looking to read more of her books in the future!

Full review posted at Reader's Edyn on 04/17/20

Adelaide has finally returned to the land of the living. Her plans to murder Nick in an accident thwarted in discovering her target was actually his twin brother and her twin sister’s fiancé. What’s a girl to do when the subject of your ruin turns out to have a twin of all things? And marrying your sister to top it all off! Planning to assimilate herself back into her family as the perfectly respectable, perfectly behaved, perfect daughter, she sets out to find a husband with Nick’s help. Wicked inclinations must be resisted at all costs. He promises to marry her if they cannot accomplish their task, but swearing to present only the best of any possible suitors, he is confident he can match her with someone truly worthy of her. Plan in hand, they set out to secure her future. But passion flared between them for a reason and trying to keep that undeniable flame at bay proves impossible. While they may both long to be together, their futures are headed in a different direction. There'sn also that teensy secret Adelaide must guard at all costs … even from Nick. Revealing her truth would mean certain ruin all over again and she’d never be able to come out of such gossip a second time.

Nicholas has finally found her. He knew she was lurking about and she finally turns up on his doorstep of all places – and shoots him. What a welcoming. He planned to marry her to save her from ruin, but that is not what she wants. On the cusp of attaining everything he desires, he admits that marriage would mean a quick death to his plans of a title and recognition, so he relents and agrees to aid her in achieving her goals. He begins with a list in which everyone will be compared to … him. As a former spy and lover to Adelaide, he would know exactly what she needs in a match, so why not? As the end to their time frame draws near, Nick finds fault with every possible match. However, when the suitor who seems to be the match Adelaide needs turns out to be the very man who is behind getting Nick the title he covets, he bows out. But things do not sit right with Nick and suddenly he realizes that Adelaide can have no other perfect match because that role lies solely on him. But the truth of her secret could tear them apart for good, so when it all spills out, Nick is forced with a huge decision which will mean confronting the demons of his past or continuing to run from them. The curse of the second son may have eluded to certain death for a first son, but it has also played a huge part in the inability of Nick to live his life freely.

Oh, how I love this series! I absolutely love to discover historical romance of this caliber. Ms. Bright is a refreshing dose of exactly what every historical romance should aspire to be! I fell hopelessly in love with the Wicked Secrets series when first I encountered Nathaniel and Alice in book 1, about 3 years ago. It took me a while, but I am finally righting a serious wrong in not getting to this next installment sooner than now. Had I realized I was sitting on this ARC version, I would have corrected the oversight immediately. I laughed continually throughout this book as I did in the initial installment. The delightful wit and banter were an absolute treasure within these pages. I recall much of the first book fairly well considering the years that have passed since I read it. I made several predictions at that time. One I will reveal after I have continued with this series to see if I was correct. The other was that Nicholas and Adelaide were actually a couple - more than just a quick affair - despite Alice's belief to the contrary. Regardless, Adelaide is sent away due to her condition, then had actually faked her death and reappeared only to attempt to kill Nate, believing him to be Nick. Confused? It's actually quite a delightful series! What a fun spin that two sets of twins should fall in love with one another. Of course, no one revealed the twin factor initially, so when each discovered that the person they were madly in love with actually had a twin, it was quite a spectacle. But I digress in reminiscing about the first book as well as this one. I will say that while this book can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading in order if for nothing else than the pure joy in meeting these characters from the very beginning, easily welcoming them back into your own reading world each time they reappear in this fantastic tale as it progresses. Although I adore each of these couples, I have been utterly enchanted with Eliza and Wessex from the start and absolutely cherished each of their interactions. Unfortuneately, it seems as if I will still be waiting on those two to just come out and admit what everyone else can clearly see. If they never get together, I may die of heartbreak. And again, if I might say so myself, Wessex nearly steals the book for a second time. He’s simply fantastic! As evidenced by the lines I included above, there is no shortage of memorable thoughts and dialogue, but somehow Wessex always ends up with very nearly the best lines in the book. A man of minimal word count, but frequently a life-altering effect. At this point, I suspect Wessex always has a reason for each move he makes and each word he chooses to bestow upon an individual. Time will reveal if I am correct in my prediction.

Maybe I should concentrate on Nick and Adelaide now. Finally. You can see how much this series has impacted me. I hope it has the same effect on each reader who chooses to immerse themselves in this brilliant world. If Alice and Nate are perfect for each other, then Adelaide and Nick are even more so. These two are exactly what the other needs, but their desire to run from past mistakes and haunting family legacies effectively squashes their ability to see through to a future together. And so they run … until they don’t. I believe, for Adelaide, a turning point was at the cake tasting party in which she overhears her sister acting like the wicked being she is trying so desperately not to be. For Adelaide, her attraction to Nick is the singularly most wicked part of her personality. That desire led to ruination and love for a man she cannot have and so, in her mind, wicked inclinations are completely unacceptable. Consequently, a cake fight ensues which may have been the absolute best scene of the entire book. Both Nick and Nate admit how turned on they are in a rather hilarious way and I could not stop laughing out loud – much to my family’s amusement. I do not believe that Adelaide’s secret was much of a shocking revelation, but I did enjoy how things played out as they took a direction I have not yet come across. This is one of Ms. Bright’s many talents … putting her own unique spin on a story in a new and engaging way. I found the Bursnell parents horrific. While their behaviors were pretty much in line with societal beliefs for that time, I’m more of a romantic and would like to think that a parent's love for their child would trump society standards. Sure, that’s the bit of dreamer in me, but it’s who I am. Because of their constant nagging on Adelaide and inability to see that Alice had flaws, I despised them. Necessary characters, mostly, but definitely the bummer aspect of the book. The complete opposite of their awful attitudes was the refreshing enlightenment provided by Nick’s father. Initially, I wasn’t entirely fond of him, but after he lets his guard down a bit and confesses his own regret (especially the beautiful epilogue), my heart went out to him. Two completely opposite sides of the fence these parents were.

What I found to be a welcome addition to the book was the slight time frame jump in the final chapter and then the eight-year jump in the epilogue. Ms. Bright left absolutely nothing to chance and tied everything up nicely. But here’s the clincher. She did it in a way that spoiled absolutely nothing for any future reads. Even Freesia could still have her own book – and dare I say … the Bursnell/Eastwood children could continue the series on for generations to come. I know I am jumping far ahead of myself as this is merely the second book in the series, but I can see so much set up for future reading enjoyment. I wouldn’t cry one bit if this series turned into something like Johanna Lindsey's Mallory family saga. The potential is most definitely present. I have no doubt. If I am lucky, I will be correct in my predictions. I have done well so far. From Alice to Nate, Adelaide to Nick, Freesia, and (hopefully soon) Eliza and Wessex, if you have yet to experience Ms. Brights’s enrapturing Wicked Secrets series, I strongly encourage you to fix that alarming mistake posthaste. Loathe as I am to admit it, I believe I will have to wait for Eliza and Wessex to proclaim their obvious love as the next couple seemed to have been set up in the final chapter of this book. *sobs* Absence makes the heart grow fonder … I suppose … maybe. *still sobbing* #BentonWessex #ElizaSebastian Despite my momentary state of grief, any lover of HR can easily call Ms. Bright a go-to author and should add her books to the top of their TBR list. I can promise with confidence that regret will be the last of any feelings provoked within this enchanting series.

Kindle version provided by NetGalley/Entangled in exchange for an honest review.

I chose this book because I graciously was given an ARC of its predecessor book, “Twice as Wicked”, which I loved. I felt the first book was sassy and somewhat original, and steamy to boot.

I just didn’t like this one as much, I am a romance book lover, but for a reason. While I love a plot, I don’t need a ton of sadness and angst. I read romance for pure entertainment, and unfortunately due to the plot line, I found myself not enjoying Adelaide’s story as much. The writing is still tight, but the story was far less fun. Many people wouldn’t mind, but that’s just not what I go looking for in my romance novels. I read other genres for seriousness.

I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I actually enjoyed this story a great deal. It was way better than book 1. I was rooting for the characters more in this one. I thought this one was pretty well done. You have the broken alpha male and and even more broken woman but the story was good and made up for when I wanted to shake the characters senseless.

I loved this romantic story. I enjoyed the baby plot and the secrets which were well developed during this book. Thanks to NetGalley, for this free copy. My opinion is my own.

I love this book. I couldn't put it down till I finish the whole thing in one sitting.

Nicholas Eastwood is about to receive a title for his years of service to the Crown. Things are finally looking up for him. Nick has already determined to right his past wrongs and so he cannot help but agree when his first opportunity presents itself in the form of a woman he used to love, a woman he has thought long dead and only recently discovered still lives, Adelaide Bursnell bursts back into his life demanding justice.

Adelaide has recently came out of hiding to get justice on the man he brought about her ruination, Nick. Unfortunately, she went after the wrong man, his twin brother Nathaniel. Luckily, with a little intervention and help, Adelaide locates Nick. She gets Nick to agree to marry her if he cannot find a suitable partner for her to marry and restore her reputation. Adelaide has a secret, one she is not prepared to share with Nick, not until she gets to know the man he has become. What will happen when all is revealed?

LADY GONE WICKED is an emotional-filled, captivating read from beginning to end. My heart goes out to Nick and Adelaide although my opinions changed a little when I learned Adelaide's big secret. Still, I sided with Adelaide because she had to endure a very scary thing and all alone. Nick is honorable and most assuredly the right man for Adelaide. He just has to learn it for himself. Adelaide and Nick have overcome many struggles and must overcome many more to get to a better place. Their story is truly touching! On a side note, I love that Adelaide and Nick each have their own twin, it somehow makes their connection that much more special. Nathaniel, Nick's twin, is his opposite as is Alice to Adelaide so it's no wonder Alice and Nathaniel ended up together in the first novel in the WICKED SECRETS series, TWICE AS WICKED. I have not read it, but definitely intend to go back and read it.

This story is a wicked little romp that left me smiling at its end. In this second book in the series, Nick and Adelaide have a torrid past together. Each wants a respectable future, but has secrets they are hiding from the world and each other. In order to achieve acceptance by society they must conceal their past as lovers and behave as if they’ve just met. The two have made a bargain of sorts: Nick must find Adelaide a proper suitor or she will make his secrets known, and he will court her. Adelaide will become betrothed to Nick “ unless someone better comes along”.
But that’s the rub. Is there anyone better for her than Nick? Does Nick truly want to pawn her off onto someone else? What kind of secrets could be so awful anyway? The story is well written and enjoyable with a colorful cast of characters adding to the entertainment.
I enjoyed this enough that I am going to go find the first in the series and read it too.

Nicholas Eastwood can't believe that Adelaide Burnsell is alive. Clearly, her death was a rumor to make sure their shared past remain buried, but now she needs his help in order to avoid a scandal. Will Nicholas be able to convince Adelaide to take another chance on him, or will she walk away from her chance at happy ever after?

Having loved the first book of this series, I couldn't wait to read more about Nicholas, especially because of how tense things still are between Nicholas and his family. Will Nicholas ever be able to forgive his twin and his parents? However, it was how this story started and the moment Nicholas and Adelaide come face-to-face again for the first time since what happened between them in the past that had me intrigued and reading quickly, determined to discover why the heroine does what she does. Does Adelaide go too far?

Both the main characters were fantastic and I loved every moment these two interacted, as Nicholas is determined to win the heroine over. Moreover, the heroine was strong and brave when it comes to moving on from her past and doing everything she can to make things right and to make sure she stays away from scandal. I also liked what she does to her sister in a moment of jealousy that had me laughing. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she wasn't afraid to challenge the hero when it comes to needing his help. How long will it take Nicholas to agree to her plan?

While the hero, he's been through so much at the hands of family that should have had more faith in him years ago. I also liked that the hero was willing to do whatever it takes to protect the heroine and that he wasn't about to let anything stand in his way of getting what he wants and what he wants is Adelaide in his life. Will a scandal ruin his chances of getting the title of marquess for his service with the Crown? Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero is that he's a fighter and has managed to come through the tough times to be the man that he is today. Really, things could have turned out so much harder for the hero.

Overall, Ms Bright has delivered a wonderful read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance full of passion; and the ending had me loving what the hero does to prove to the heroine that she's the one for him. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as readers discover how far the hero's relationship has come with his family. I would recommend Lady Gone Wicked by Elizabeth Bright, if you enjoy Historical Romance, second chance romances or books by authors Maddison Michaels, Christi Caldwell, Jess Michaels and Laura Trentham.

If there is one thing I’ve learned about secrets over a lifetime, it’s that they very rarely remain secret. Adelaide was learning this lesson first hand. She’d given her heart, and more to the one man she believed would never let her down… until he did. Nicholas also knows the harm that secrets can bring to a life, most directly to his. After all, he’s made a career of secrets… learning others and keeping his own close to his heart. He’d loved one lovely lady and once again was left on the outside when her disappearance turns out to be something far different than he and others believed. Now they are both faced with some truths – and need to decide which will win – the secrets that should be kept or the love that never died.

Lady Gone Wicked is a passionate, humorous, and decidedly wicked romance that is full of secrets, misunderstandings, misdirection and finally being true to yourself and your feelings for someone else. Adelaide and Nicholas are a delightful couple, even when they believe the worst of the other. The twists and turns of this plot will keep you engaged. The banter and funny moments between two sets of twins and their loved ones will bring a smile as you watch two lovers untangle the mess they’ve made of their relationship. With danger, humor and passion Lady Gone Wicked is a story that will have you hoping for more – and that is delivered quite well.

Because, in some ways, Adelaide and Nicholas’ story actually has its beginning in Twice As Wicked, I would strongly recommend reading this series in order. You would not be lost if you don’t, but you would certainly miss a delightful story that begins this wickedly enjoyable series.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

Really enjoyable read! I didn't read the first one and you definitely don't need to, but I think it would have enriched this book a little more. This story is well written and flows good. Nick and Adelaide had really good chemistry. They were a little maddening at times, but I think that just made me want to read the story more. I could have used a little more detail at the end, but the epilogue was great. Overall, an entertaining read with a little bit of steam.

ARC provided by NetGalley.

Lady Gone Wicked by Elizabeth Bright is book two in the "Wicked Secrets" Series. This is the story of Nicholas Eastwood and Adelaide Bursnell. I have read the previous book but this is easily a standalone book.
Nicholas is ready to get his reward for helping the Crown he just needs to maintain a scandal free existence until the deal is set. But then Adelaide comes forward who was thought to have past but now is here. They were once very close but now Nicholas has offered to help her find a husband so that she can out run her scandal and to help himself stay scandal free. But sometimes you can't run from you feelings even when you want something else so bad.
Good Second Chance at Love story.

There are quite a number of secrets that both Adelaide and Nicholas have in this story. They obviously have an attraction for each other but are held back by their secrets and the feeling of being unworthy. There is also the connections with their families and the interaction between them all. This was an entertaining read, as the secrets slowly unfold throughout the story.
I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this book. The secret baby/pregnancy plot line always gets me, and it was a nice surprise since I wasn't expecting it. I loved the two main characters. The writing felt a little sub-par, but I overall enjoyed it.

Be careful what you wish for, because it may come back at bite you in the end. Maybe someone should have warned Nicholas and Adelaide before their scandal began. Both have tragic pasts. Each has so much love to give but doesn't think they deserve to receive it. Victims of circumstance. Can two disillusioned hearts turn heartache into happily ever after? Amidst the scandal, betrayal, pain and darkness, lies a haunting tale of courage, hope and redemption. Unforgettable in every way.

Definitely a buy buy buy book. During my time of reading this story, I had a hard time at the start to put it down. While it dragged a little in the middle... it soon became engrossing again. I enjoyed the writers characters as well as the way she incorporated her story line to have so many elements. Not just a romance but more. I want to downgrade this one for only one reason.... the title should of still been worked in ... in my humble opinion. But in real life, it does work this way. Love and no matter what you do right... others can and will take advantage of it if you do something they perceive wrong. This story was one that felt like a old friend meeting a new one. The writer is definitely talented and I will look forward to more from her. I will not write spoilers here only to say, a wonderful job of writing with characters and story line that is definitely engrossing. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom .

I loved it! It's such an interesting story about two people who love each other, but have no idea how to show it. So, they just end up hurting each other, and themselves, in the process. However, there may be a way for them to be happy even if they can't be together.....

Adelaide was betrayed once and now she cannot trust Nick. Although, she is in need of his assistance so she will accept that much from him. It's not that she has forgotten about what happened between them, it's just that there is no other option for her. Her family believes her to be dead, and now she is back and she plans to avoid scandal at any cost. Neither Nick nor herself can afford a scandal or else they'll be ruined beyond redemption or so she thinks....

Nick never expected to find Adelaide the way he did. He still remembers the sweet and kind girl she was. Now that she is here, in front of him, he can't imagine any other solution for their predicament than to marry her. It won't be an ideal marriage of course, but what else can be? He can't let anyone know about what happened between them and he can't let her cause scandal, because he is so close to achieve his goals. But what about happiness? Does it even matter? Maybe they will both find a way to redeem themselves or maybe they are just doomed to live unhappily as a penance for their wickedness....

I made a huge mistake in starting to read this book prior to going to sleep. I intended to only read a chapter or two and ended up finishing it at 4am! Nicholas Eastwood, rejected and abandoned by his family when he was twelve, has a need to be loved but doesn’t believe that true love exists. His experience leads him to believe that love can easily die. Adelaide on the other hand has a heart as big as the ocean but knows the shame of being a ‘fallen’ woman due to believing her seducer loved and cared for her. Whilst a standalone novel this follows on from Twice As Wicked (which I intend to re-read to remind myself of the other twins’ romance) and is best read after that story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.