Another magnificently crafted story of historical romance with the emphasis on romance.
One Night of Scandal is the story of Jack Barrett, wealthy and ambitious member of parliament and Lady Viola Fairfax (sister to the Duke of Eastleigh) a lovely but adventurous and independent woman who masquerades as a man, named Tavistock, to get information for her column in a woman’s magazine.
Once Barrett sees Viola’s disguise, he can’t believe no one else notices that she’s actually a woman. He takes it upon himself to be her protector as she investigates a rumor that a Member of Parliament helped the rebels to attack the prince regent.
The romance builds slowly, and the action is unique and interesting. You’ll love reading the way the author takes you on their adventure through danger and intrigue, while building their attraction and romance. One Night of Scandal is a well-paced and very well-written story in this marvelous series.
Grab a copy of this wonderful book and curl=up with the adventure.

Another enjoyable book with characters from the previous book which I absolutely adore. This book reads like you already know the characters. As if they’re part of your life. Anyone can tell you the story. However the author does a much better job than I do of telling the story. I want to tell you about the emotions the storY Evokes. It runs along rather smoothly Dash till you hit a wall. The characters bring comedy fourth. As well as you wanting to shake them. You want to make them behave differently. They’re like your friends And the gentle loving sensual scenes? To die for. I can’t wait for another sequel

Lady Viola Fairfax is masquerading as a male journalist called Tavistock. She has ambitions to write a “real” newsworthy story instead of the typical gossip and social news she produces now. Although the sister of a duke, Viola has no intention of marrying. She is intelligent, sensible, and educated.

Jack Barrett is an MP as was his father and grandfather. He is smart and diligent in his duties, and like his father and grandfather has no wish to marry until he has followed through on his political aspirations. One night he sees through Tavistock’s disguise and realizes she’s a woman.

Jack and Lady Viola are wonderful characters. They have integrity, they’re both clever and follow politics. I liked that Lady Viola thought through her actions instead of heedlessly jumping into trouble. There is a traitor amongst the politicians, one who is feeding info to the radicals. Jack agrees to help Lady Viola ferret out the traitor, and this sets the tone for the story. The forced proximity brings the pair together and acts as a spark for their romance.

I enjoyed the political setting and also the fact that the hero didn’t have a title, although he was quite at home amongst those of higher social standing. The way the main characters grew slowly into their relationship was great too, although I wished that the “scandal” hadn’t been the impetus to force a marriage. On the downside, the ending felt a bit rushed, but otherwise an enjoyable read.

I liked Jack and Viola very much. While the regency setting (and the rules and regs that go along with it) was familiar, the characters were refreshing. I'm always baffled when the female dresses asa a man manages to keep all that hair under wraps! That being said, it didn't interfere with the story line at all. Really fun and I would like to read more in the series.

This is the fourth stand alone book set within the Wicked Dukes Club series. And while some of the characters from the prior books do make an appearance in this one, it is not over powering enough to confuse the reader or put them off in any way.

One of the interesting things about this series is that it is actually being written by two different authors. Darcy Burke is writing all the even numbered books in this series while all of the odd number books are being written by Erica Ridley. What makes this interesting (to me at least) is the way that when reading this, the stories flow so well that you often forget there are two different authors behind these.

Speaking only to this one, I feel that it was a fast read with cute characters, but that was the extent of it. The "bad guy" portion of this story did not feel particularly suspenseful, and the whole concept of a woman dressing up like a man and/or writing under an alias has been done so often that it has become boring. The author does do a fantastic job of weaving in some true historical facts within this novel that not only make it feel more authentic, but also gives the reader a view good idea of the difficult (and yes more than a bit scary) times that were happening around them.

All things considering, I would still recommend this novel not only to established fans of this series, but those looking to pick up a quick beach read that will keep them entertained.

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

ONE NIGHT OF SCANDAL by Darcy Burke is book 4 in the Wicked Dukes Club Series. This is the story of Viola Fairfax and Jack Barrett. I have read the previous books, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Viola has a column in a women's magazine but when she learns of a brewing scandal she goes looking for the story to take her to a more series level in her writing. Viola at first thinks Jack may be a part of it but he comes forward to help her which puts them working real close together which leads to some strong feelings.

Viola and Jack are everything a romance should be! I couldn't put this book down. They have an adventure that helps their budding romance grow. The reader will not be disappointed.

The book opens with Lady Viola Fairfax, wearing men’s clothes and drinking at her brother’s tavern. She writes under the guise of Tavistock, a male writer working for The Ladies’ Gazette. She has spent so much time perfecting the art of being a male, with her sideburns, clothing, mannerisms and behaviour that she believes that she has fooled everyone. However, Mr Jack Barrett, so reveals that he knows who she is. Soon after, she uncovers gossip that has serious ramifications and its seriousness, leads Jack to helping her uncover more details. It is only in working together, that they realise their feelings, but events will transpire to make this romance challenging.
Both Viola and Jack are determined not to marry, and the reasons given are realistic. Yet, I did find that rather than constantly resisting their earlier set plans, this story made their change in heart, seamless. It was quite enjoyable not to hear them constantly argue with their previous ideals yet embrace the qualities that they desired in the other. A lovely romance with two very likeable characters.
As the fourth book in the series, many of the characters from the previous three books appear, yet the author is so clever in her ability to immerse other characters into the storyline, that this can be read as a standalone book. However, it would be worth your reading pleasure to read all the previous ones!
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. This is definitely a great addition to an enjoyable series.

I love this series. I really enjoyed reading about Jack and Viola. They are part of a rare breed of heroes. Jack isn’t a dictatorial alpha with a tragic backstory. He loves his father and has a good relationship with him. He’s working hard to better the lives of his fellow men and women. Viola isn’t a manipulative female prepared to do whatever she wants because she wants it heedless of anyone’s safety. She’s well aware of her limitations and willing to accept help and advice when it’s offered. I wasn’t prepared for the in-depth look at radical political activism of the era. Some others have suggested that this added to the realism of the story, but for me it pulled me out of that place where our leading couple were falling for each other. I liked the sense of intrigue that pulled Jack and Viola together. But the political propaganda felt a little “preachy", and I could have done without that.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through NetGalley.

This is book #4 in the Wicked Dukes Club series by Darcy Burke and Erica Ridley.
One Night of Scandal features a strong, independent, aspiring writer by the name of Lady Viola Fairfax. Unfortunately, she cannot become a published writer because of her sex. Lady Viola decides to dress up as a man and soon becomes a well known reporter by the name of Tavistock who writes for the Lady's Gazette. Lady Viola wants to write about more serious issues and after hearing about an MP who has assisted the Radicals, she starts her hunt for the unnamed MP.
Unfortunately, she is caught by none other than MP Jack Barrett, who also happens to be a friend of her brother. He promises to keep her secret but only if she lets him assist her, which is his way of ensuring she is kept from harm. They begin working together and even though they are both attracted to the other they try to refrain from becoming involved as neither want marriage.
I really enjoyed this story. The intrigue, the disguise as Tavistock and the times Jack and Lady Viola are together were great. I really enjoyed Lady's Viola's character. She wouldn't let anything stand in her way of getting the story.
*I received an advance readers copy from NetGalley for and honest review.*

Jack Barrett and Lady Viola Fairfax are an MP and a journalist who join forces to find a bit of mischief, danger and love in the 4th book in the Wicked Dukes Club series. This is a standalone, happily ever after, no cheating, historical romance with lots of sizzle.
Darcy Burke’s characters are always engaging, interesting and loveable; this book is no exception. Viola is a strong leading lady who doesn’t let the norm for women of her day keep her down, and finds a man who is her equal. Interesting storyline and believable chemistry between the characters, created a story that I didn’t want to put down until it was finished.
I look forward to more from this author.
I received a copy of this story from NetGalley for my honest opinion.

One Night of Scandal by Darcy Burke is an intense thriller in a historical romance. Love the way it mixes the classes to create uncomfortable situations. Love the serious way that most of the female characters are portrayed. Lots of complex characters with deep, meaningful back stories and hits of other stories I want to read. My favorite is the gender bending disguises and the many various ways a disguise is used to develop the plot put the characters in awkward positions that they need to extricate themselves. TrueType delightful, gripping story.

Lady Viola Fairfax is an aspiring journalist except for the fact she can't publish anything under her own name because women are not allowed to be hired by any publications. Thus, her male alter ego is born and she finally gets to publish a column for a ladies magazine. When she stumbles across a shocking piece of gossip, she wants to pursue it, but MP Jack Barrett thinks it's too dangerous to pursue. Sparks fly between Viola and Jack although each tries hard to ignore their growing feelings. Can Viola give up a chance to expose corruption or risk losing Jack's love forever?

I enjoyed this novella especially since it was full of suspense and intrigue. Ms. Burke touched on many of the controversial topics of the day and it was a nice reprieve from the glittering ballrooms of the ton most historical romances focus on. The love between Viola and Jack was a slow burn until neither of them could deny their feelings any longer and I was glad there was no "insta-love" between them. This is a well written story that historical romance fans will definitely enjoy. I can't wait to read the next story in this series.

One Night of Scandal
by Darcy Burke
Pub Date: 28 May 2019

I enjoyed this book a great deal. I loved the interaction between the main characters. This series is co written by Darcy Burke and Erica Ridley. Each book gets better and better. Looking forward to the next one.

I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and the publisher. I have volunteered to leave a review

One Night of Scandal is book four in The Wicked Dukes Club series by Erica Ridley and Darcy Burke. This book is written by Burke and is very well done. I thought it started a little bit slow but once the pace picked up, I couldn’t put the book down. I really liked both of the main characters. Jack Barrett is a member of parliament and very honest and likable. Lady Viola Fairfax masquerades as a man in order to write articles for a Lady’s Magazine. Burke places the setting of this story during an actual crisis in British history. On January 28, 1817 the Prince Regent’s carriage was attacked while he was returning from opening a new session of Parliament. Two bullet holes were found in the carriage window, but no one was hurt. No one ever discovered who was behind the attack. Riots broke out across the country when the government retaliated by instilling the Gagging Acts ( the write to speech and written expression) and the suspension of Habeas Corpus. By suspending Habeas Corpus, the British government took away an individual’s right to be brought before a judge and for that judge to demand proof that the person’s incarceration was justified. Without Habeas Corpus, anyone could be accused and thrown into prison with little recourse. It was a dangerous time in England. Many people were crying out for reform.
So Burke has woven a masterful story of intrigue, danger and romance during this terrifying time. As a Parliament member Jack Barrett must step carefully through the nation’s politics. Viola finds herself ensnared in the rumor mongering of those around her and attracted to Jack.
“You are a very attractive woman, even with that bloody disguise. If anyone paid close attention to you, they’d find themselves beguiled.” “ Are you?” she asked softly. He leaned close, his face so near that she could see the faint stubble of his beard beginning to shadow his jaw. “Irrevocably.”
Loved it. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.

While I thought it a little plausible that a female (Violet) could masquerade as a male in a very male environment and not get caught, I did enjoy the story. I thought Jack to be almost too nice. The inclusion of radical activism that went on during that time made the plot interesting. I received an ARC for my honest review.

Although I initially thought this would be an annoying story involving a girl dressed in britches sneaking around writing a gossip column for a magazine, it was actually much more. The girl was doing that, but the story was much more interesting and entertaining and the author managed to make it different and entertaining. The girl in question is the sister of a Duke, which I initially thought especially silly, and it may well be, but she’s a fun and charming young Lady, and the relationship between her and the H is actually quite entertaining. They join together to investigate an MP who is participating in criminal activity, only to be mystified by the results of their pursuit.
They of course become attracted to one another and resist the attraction, have misunderstandings and finally, solve the mystery.
I received a free arc in exchange for an honest review.

As with all Darcys book this is just another hit in a long line of wonderful books! Fun fast paced with intrigue and romance! I just can say enough good things! I didn’t give 5 Stars only because I reserve that for the most ingenuitive of books that I can stand to part with. While this is a wonderful book it not a 5 Star book to me.

I was given an ARC for an honest review by Netgalley. THANKS NETGALLEY!! I’m

Heat Factor: One sex scene with lots of detail
Character Chemistry: It helps that they have a common cause
Plot: Let’s unmask a potentially treasonous Member of Parliament in a time of political instability!
Overall: Decidedly mixed feelings

Early on in One Night of Scandal, Jack reveals that he has known that Lady Viola’s male alter-ego, Tavistock, is actually a woman for the past year. He figured it out because this one time she bent over, and he saw that she had a curvy bum. So he started looking more carefully, and noticed that behind her (false) whiskers, she also had:
1. Long eyelashes
2. Lush lips
and
3. Cerulean eyes (FFS!)
When this happened, I felt a spurt of rage. Men can have pretty eyes! Men can have nice lips! And some men are not that broad-shouldered triangle shape. The only thing that stopped me from throwing my phone across the room was the thought that at least her eyes weren’t violet. (If they had been, I might not have been able to stop myself.)

You might say that my reading experience got off to an inauspicious start.

What kept me going was the plot: Viola has been posing as a man in order to write a column for the Ladie’s Gazette (because they wouldn’t hire her if she were a woman - misogyny!). She gets a hot tip that an MP conspired with radicals to try and assassinate the Prince Regent, and sets out to investigate. This is her big shot to write something meaningful and important, rather than about who wore what cravat to the pub last week. On the way, she teams up with MP Jack Barrett, who may have radical tendencies of his own.

Now, it’s not as if the mystery of the “bad guy” is that suspenseful or mysterious - it is pretty obvious from the get-go which players are feeding her sketchy information and why. However, what was particularly well done was the details Burke provided about radical activism during the Regency - the Spa Fields Riots, the Spencean Philanthropists, government agent provocateur John Castle, and the Seditious Meetings Act of 1817 all make an appearance. She doesn’t go deeply into the ins and outs, but includes enough historically accurate detail that the reader can get a general sense of some of the political stakes of what is currently going on, which I really appreciated. This felt fresh to me - I can’t recall another Regency that specifically dealt with radical politics (Erin or other history buffs may be able to correct me here); instead, political regencies tend to be about Napoleon or, more broadly, conflict with the French, or they might mention Fox and/or Pitt the Younger (who both died in 1806, and were therefore not that important come 1817). I spent some time reading articles about British history on the internet after I finished this book, so I would call that a win, since I learned some things.

The other component that saved this book was Jack, who was an excellent hero. He has a good relationship with his father (!). He is protective of Viola, but never tries to stop her from doing things - and, in fact, continues to help with the investigation despite increasing danger to Viola because he understands that this is something she needs to accomplish (!!). And he is a politician who does not sympathize with the plight of the poor in general terms (as do so many of our romantic heroes), but rather is working his butt off through political channels to bring about change (!!!).

The things that make us swoon.

In fact, I would say Jack carries this book, because Viola remained a moderately annoying mystery. She has gotten great joy and freedom from her years-long masquerade as Tavistock - but now that she has met the right man, she repeatedly notes how excited she is to give up the masquerade. She wants to feel like a woman in Jack’s arms. She declares she will never marry, but her reasons are opaque. Maybe she thinks that a husband won’t let her write, because the fiancé she jilted years ago probably wouldn’t have? She also spontaneously has this idea that she’s unlovable (mentioned once, but leading to a dramatic and heated scene with Jack, so...), but there is nothing else in the story to back it up, or to suggest why she might think this is the case.

The TL;DR version: while there were components of this book that I really enjoyed, there were enough bits that induced serious eye-rolling, such that I can’t wholeheartedly recommend it.



I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.

This review is also available at The Smut Report.

One Night of Scandal is the fourth book in the series the Wicked Dukes Club. Jack Barrett serves in Parliament and all his time and energy is spent there. Lady Viola Fairfax, is a journalist who writes as a male for the Ladies Gazzette. She spends her afternoons at the Wicked Dukes Club listening on the men who go there. She then decides that she is tired of writing trivial things. She is determined to write an article about the attempt on the Prince Regent's life some time back. It is during this investigation that Jack joins her to assist her.
This story was a good read for me. At times it seemed that the attention was placed mostly on the investigation. Viola and Jack were great together and it seemed funny that early on in the story they both stated that they had no interest in getting married at the moment. Though they were very attracted to each other it was because of Viola that things moved along. I liked that Viola was very independent and that she worked hard for what she wanted to achieve. She considered having a husband an inconvenience towards meeting those goals. Luckily fate intervenes and she realizes that it's better to work as a team.
I enjoyed the action it had towards the end.

*Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC given through NetGalley for review.*