I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The heroine is not your typical heroine and that's a part of what makes this book so entertaining. She's smart, a bit plump and wears glasses - a welcomed change. Loved it.
The hero starts as an unforgiving oaf. He comes to realize the Cecelia is precisely what she claims to be. She's honest.
Note: The few sex scenes were explicit.

All Scot and Bothered is book 2 in The Devil You Know series, but it can be read as a standalone. A slow-burning, enemies-to-lovers, historical romance, the story focuses on Cecilia Teague and Lord Cassius Ramsey.

Lord Ramsey is determined to find out about the girls in London who are going missing, and he is certain the owner of the gaming hall is involved. He never expects to fall for the mysterious owner, and he is shocked to learn that she is Cecelia, a friend of his brother’s wife, who he’s admired at social gatherings.

Cecelia knows nothing about the missing girls but determines to find out all she can. Her first clue is the coded book her aunt left her. All Cecilia has to do is decode it.

When Cecelia’s life is threatened on more than one occasion, Ramsey can’t explain the need he feels to protect her. He takes her, along with her delightful ward and her injured father-figure, to his childhood home in Scotland until she can figure out her aunt’s coded book. Will Cecelia decode the book before they are found? Will Ramsey and Cecelia give in to their feelings? Can they figure out what is happening to the missing girls?

Cecilia and Ramsey are similar in many ways. They share feelings of loneliness and abandonment, and they live independent lives. They are both well educated, and they both have strong and valid reasons for remaining unattached. They also both suffered abuse and neglect as children. “If we looked deep enough within ourselves, we’d find glimpses of each other. I see a reflection in your eyes, I think. A part of myself. One that might be kinder than the truth.” They share a profound connection and seem inexplicably drawn to each other even though their beliefs, aspirations, and daily lives are so very different.

Ransey, for example, avoids excess – drinking, gambling, smoking, even chocolates are generally off-limits to him. It is almost as if he refuses to give himself pleasure and is punishing himself. Cecelia, on the other hand, likes to indulge. She believes in taking the extra chocolate and having a little fun. She faces adversity with understanding and optimism. Ramsey is much more serious, curt, and aloof than the bubbly, passionate, and vivacious Cecelia. Her philosophy is that “one must be kind in order to be good,” and Ramsey’s is “one must be fair and just.” I think it’s a combination of the two. 😉

Their similarities and differences make for wonderfully dynamic characters. They teach each other about love – romantic love, familial love, and self-love. Their love also forces them to reevaluate what is important in life and what is worth fighting for. I liked watching their relationship and their complex feelings for each other grow. Plus, they had fabulously spicy chemistry!

I also love the excellent depiction of strong, independent, and ambitious women. Men are a welcome addition to Cecelia and her friends’ lives, not a necessity. Cecelia is a quick-witted mathematician whose zest for life is infectious. She follows her dreams and doesn’t let anything (her childhood, her gender, societal expectations, or her weight) stand in her way. If anything, she embraces her obstacles. Her relationship with The Red Rogues, her two best friends, is a lovely sisterhood of strong, independent women who defy societal norms. These women, and the people who support them, are the epitome of female empowerment.

Thanks so much to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Paperbacks for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

All Scot and Bothered, by Kerrigan Byrne is a unique historical romance that follows the ever-loving heroine, Cecilia Teague and the stoic and refined, self-made Lord, Cassius Ramsey on a tumultuous and enlightening battle toward love. I enjoyed how the heroine wasn't the "perfect English rose" that's typical in an historical romance novel. Cecilia Teague is a character of depth, emotion and strength who pursued her dreams and didn't allow anyone or anything to stop her. She's the type of woman that all women should like to model and look up to. I loved this second book even more than the first (which was amazing in it's own way) and cannot wait until it's Franks story! The Red Rogues are such fun to read about and their backstory definitely adds to the mysteriousness and adventure! I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy adventure, romance and a whirlwind of action!

Terrific! All Scot and Bothered launches into the life of another handsome devil! Ramsay and Cecelia are perfect for each other. Cecelia has many characteristics that are endearing and relatable to the reader. Her bond with her friends is heartwarming and gives depth to the story. All Scot and Bothered brings to life, Cecelia and Ramsay's rich story. Byrne plants us right in the middle of a mystery. Wrapped up in the emotionally charged situations and danger, I couldn't put it down. This new adventure, riddled with secrets, places Cecelia in jeopardy. Ramsay will stop at nothing when investigating the disappearance of children. Cecelia's secret identity changes everything. All Scot and Bothered is sure to please historical romance connoisseurs. This is a stand-alone romance. But, if you haven't read the first book in the series, it is worth a read. I fell in love with Cecelia reading the first book in the series. There are enticing subplots interwoven throughout the novel. I can't wait for the next book in the Deil You Know series!



This review will go live on Sept. 11, 2020

I have voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this title given to me via NetGalley. This book was just amazing. I just lost myself in this story and didn’t want it to end. It was really well written and just drew in you into these characters lives. I look forward to seeing what’s next from this author.

All Scot and Bothered (Devil You Know Series) is a quick, entertaining read with solid well developed characters, plenty of hot steamy romance and of course a HEA. If you're a fan of historical romance this is a must read.

3.5 stars, All Scot and Bothered is the second book in this series but was easy to follow along without reading the first one. Lord Chief Justice of the High Court, Cassius Gerard Ramsay, the Vicar of Vice is the most unlikable Scot to ever cross the pages of a book I have read. Rigid and self righteous, Ramsay charges in to everything with preconceived notions and prejudices at the ready. Cecelia Teague, one of the Red Rogue, sweetheart of a person that is way too good for the Scot that steals her heart. Mistreated as a child until she was rescued by her maternal aunt, Cecelia was sent to school where she become part of the sisterhood that is the Red Rogues, unconventional strong females. Cecelia is a very likable character who is the saving grace of the book. Ramsay needs knocked upside head with the heaviest book in the room. Towards the end of the book, Ramsay does finally have a change of heart enough so that he gets his HEA but he will still go down as my least favorite Scot ever. Action packed and a little steamy, the story moves quickly to a HEA and some redemption for our hard-nosed hero. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy from Netgalley.

This is the second book I've read by Kerrigan Byrne. And the second book in this series, the first being How to Love a Duke in Ten Days.

So there are some books out there in the world that are so good that they take your breath away: the minute you are finished reading them you either want to start all over again or you want to cry a little because you miss it so much. Those books are very rare in my (many years of) experience. And How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is one of those books.
For months afterwards little bits would come back to me. And of course, I was eager to read the next story, having enjoyed the first book so much.

Over time I started to get nervous as the hype built. Would the second book be as good? Was the first book as good as I remembered (of course it was!) or was I imagining it?

I started reading this book once I got the advanced reader's copy not realising this was Cecelia's story in the series. But as soon as the women got together, it all came back to me. And by then, I was hooked.

All my worries were for nothing: this book is just wonderful as its predecessor. This time we've got Cecelia Teague and Cassius Ramsay. I can't go into too much detail without giving any spoilers but I'll do my best.

Cecelia is another highly educated woman, this time a mathematician. An unusual woman in Victorian England. She's also an heiress with a mysterious past and benefactor and her own share of sorrow. She's brave, loyal and loves deeply which leaves her emotions more vulnerable than most.

Cassius is the Lord Chief Justice of the High Court. He's deeply suspicious of everyone and everything. He doesn't seem to much like women, especially women with mysteries. And he won't stop for anything or anyone in his mission to bring criminals to justice. Like Cecelia, he's brave but believes he's cold and above things like vices and emotions.

These types of characters have been written in other books I've read: she's emotional and he's cold. But to me, they've never really rung true. How can someone switch from one extreme state to another in a believable way? The answer seems to be, it takes a great storyteller to do it and to make it believable. And Kerrigan Byrne is a great storyteller.

I'm very much looking forward to reading Francesca's story. But I think I'll be reading this one again a few more times before then to pick up all the little nuggets I missed the first time.

**Disclaimer: I was given an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review**

"All Scott and Bothered" was a super quick read for me, but it was all over the place.

+ The beginning was choppy and confusing with the time jumps. You don't have a lot of time to understand Cecelia's upbringing and who these people are that "save" her. Suddenly, she's at a high society party flirting with Ramsay.

+ Ramsay's initial introduction was interesting due to his characterization and ideals, but mid-way through the story he easily just gives in to his temptations??? Like, I expected there to be more of a slow burn or a fight to control himself.

+ The ~mystery~ portion was also confusing. Suddenly it's like the "South Park" episode where everyone's admitting to being involved in this young girl kidnapping scheme.

+ Also, the side story with Cecelia being the Scarlet Lady and apart of the Red Rogues was pointless.

3 *'s because it was a quick read, but I am NOT bothered (lol, sorry - I had to)

The second book on the Devil You Know series follows the story of Ms. Cecelia Teague and Lord Chief Justice, Cassius Gerard Ramsay.
Lord Ramsay has been attracted to Cecelia since he first saw her at his brother’s engagement party, but he has avoided overindulgence for the best part of a decade and doesn’t plan to be tempted by the fiery redhead.
When Cecelia learns she’s the recipient of her aunt’s inheritance, which includes a gaming establishment, she’ll find herself in Lord Ramsay’s sights and not for the right reasons.
This was another entertaining read by this author filled with solid characters that have very interesting backstories and good secondary characters. There were a few truly unexpected surprises which made the experience even better.
IMO, the only downfall is, that once again, I found the book too long for my taste and feel it could have been done with a little less embellishment. In all it was a nice read and I can’t wait to read about the last Red Rogue.


3.75 stars

A story of love and a beautiful one at that. Ramsay and Cecelia are attracted to each other from the beginning but don't act on it. Both of them had a troubled and painful past but have come out of it. Ramsay mother left him for a wealthy duke n his father was also negligent towards him. He is a proud Scot who overcomes all obstacles n rises in life and society. His initial opinion about Cecelia is rather bad and mean after he comes to know that she is the scarlet lady.
Cecelia is a force of nature. The bond between all the three red rogues is heart warming. I liked the way she accepted phoebe. Her bond with the French man is also so sweet and tender. Ramsay acts like a mcp few times n redeems himself in the end.

The chemistry between them is sizzling. Looking forward to read Francesca 's story.

Cecilia lives for indulgence. Chocolates, wine, and the new gaming club she just inherited. Ramsey, the Vicar of Vice denies himself any indugences and basically lives a steadfast, boring, life. The only thing recently to stir any emotions in the Scot is Cecilia, our heroine. When Ramsey discovers she is the owner of the gaming establishment he blames for some pretty nefarious happens, he does his best to keep his feelings intact. However, as these two are forced to work together, feelings cant be contained. I enjoyed the book. Kerrigan Byrne is one of my favorite authors. Ramses was tad stoic for me but by the end, he really grew on me. This is the second in the Devil you know series. I cant wait for the third book because we get a pretty good idea who her hero is going to be and I cant wait to see this story play out and get the last HEA for the Red Rogues!

Another excellent romance novel by Kerrigan Byrne! I love that Byrne’s characters are so uniquely flawed which helps define them as a person. In this novel, I felt that both Ramsey and Cecelia’s difficult upbringing is propelled their relationship with one another. The connection was fantastic from the very beginning, and of course their hot, steamy romance was magnificently written. I look forward to reading the next novel from Kerrigan Byrne!

First, Kerrigan Byrne is a magnificant author. I've loved all her books so far and that is saying something.
This particular story wasn't my favorite. I loved both characters but something was missing and I was never completely charmed as I usualy am vith her novels.
This is a must read author for fans of true historical romances. If you're into "rom-com in costume" this is not a book (or an author) for you.

“She was adept at keeping secrets, wasn’t she?” All Scot and Bothered by Kerrigan Byrne

3.5 stars! Haven’t read this author in a long time, so I when I saw this book on NetGalley, I took a chance on getting an arc. And I was pleasantly surprised when I was granted it.

This is the second book in the series. It can stand alone but some characters there have their own stories that would mage your appreciate this one more.

Cecilia is a wealthy but untitled woman. Ramsay is the Lord Chief Justice. And they clash when Cecilia inherits a gaming hall that Ramsey has been trying to shut down. Secrets abound everywhere!

Cecilia is sweet and kind (with a backbone) while Ramsey is inflexible and judgmental. I wanted to knock Ramsey in the head so many times in this book. His rigidity was bordering on crazy already. But of course, they do sort themselves (rather, himself) in the end.

Hmm. I think I enjoyed the first book more though. But this is a close second.

Thank you @stmartinspress for the arc of this book. And thank you NetGalley too!

Loved it. Loved the characters, loved romance, loved the the additions to overarching series storyline.

Both Cecelia & Ramsay’s stories were hard & sad and they were both left broken in different ways. Typical of Kerrigan Byrne, there were some i’s & t’s left undotted or crossed, but, you know what? It doesn’t matter. These characters sparkle with that something Kerrigan instills them with - an inner richness? joy? - even if it’s not necessarily explained. Pair that with a sometimes over the top plot, and you have a terrifically engaging read. Like read until the wee hours of the morning type read.

The best part of it all for me was watching Cecelia & Ramsay’s pieces fit into each other (no not *that* way, though *that* way was scorching). It wasn’t all about Cecilia becoming what Ramsay needed, but so much more of him learning to trust her & allowing her to be herself, which is just the thing he needed to become more of himself. It was willfully feminist and utterly romantic in the end.

And finally, all I can say is that I can’t wait for Francesca’s story now. We got some hints & they look delicious.

*I’m writing this review of an ARC copy I received from Net Galley (Thanks, NG!). As always, my thoughts are my own & as honest as I can be.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book!! ALL SCOT AND BOTHERED is **a must read** for any reader who loves a tortured alpha male hero who thinks he is undeserving of love especially from a beautiful smart heroine. I smiled, laughed and cried throughout this whole read. In true Kerrigan Byrne fashion, there is plenty of heartache and healing, and all kinds of angst mixed in.

What really made this book stand out for me, however, was the heroine. She's a fighter who is not only physically beautiful, but she is sweet and kind (even when the world has never been kind to her). She's not a woman with a stereotypical body type. Rather she's real - soft, curvy, and super smart! And Cassius, our hero, falls for the entire package! Together, Cecilia and Ramsay sizzle!!! Their story to HEA was not easy by any stretch. It was filled with bumps, twists and turns. There are moments when they both banter and argue, but then become vulnerable, exposing their feelings while falling in love with each other.

My one and only criticism, however, is the ending. It felt very abrupt and a bit rushed and I would have liked a little bit more to the resolution.
Overall, Kerrigan Byrne did an amazing job with this book. I cannot wait to see who the author plans to pair up with the last Red Rogue.

I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley for my honest review.

All Scot and Bothered by Kerrigan Byrne WONDERFUL book ( I received this book through NetGalley)
England's Chief Justice is an overly principled Scot who meets his match in the owner of a famous gambling, and according to the hero, prostitution house.
I stayed up all night to finish reading this book. Once I began reading I never put it down !!.
I'm totally convinced that Ms. Byrne is one of the most gifted authors of the romance genre. I had read and immensely enjoyed her work previously and was interested in seeing how she is developing as a writer.
To say I was pleasantly surprised by this work is beyond an understatement. It was absolutely fantastic!!
As a retired librarian who has read extensively of contemporary, futuristic but primarily historical romance, I can't express just how talented this author is.
If you haven't discovered Ms. Byrne yet, I encourage you to read her work.
If you have, keep reading. You won't be disappointed.

Loved it- every bit of it! Wished that it was a bit longer. Kerrigan Byrne just has a way with words that makes you fall in love with the story and characters from the start and then she takes you on this adventure that leaves you wanting more.
You want to love and hate Lord Ramsay and you cant help but love Cecelia
Minor issues- Phoebe's manner of talking is way too sophisticated for a non-educated 7 year old. Cecelia is supposed to a bookworm, smart, and shy- so where the hell did she learn to be so bold when it came to pleasuring a man? Books cant teach you all that and I would still think she'd be shy and almost embarrassed her first time. The other Red Rouges are pretty much MIA for most of the story which being as close as Cecelia is to them didnt sit that she'd just pop off to Scotland to hide, moreover that she wouldn't discuss some things with them first before making a life altering decision. Lots of dialogue for the better half of the book and wraps up almost too fast. Loads of swearing and rude words (I didnt mind it but others might be put off by it)
Overall an adventure that I recommend.
I received an advanced e-book copy in exchanged for a review

All Scot & Bothered
It really doesn't get better than this! Kerrigan Byrne has done it again. Her storytelling ability far surpasses any and all expectations. She proves it once again with the tale of Cecelia and Ramsay. The emotion, the angst, the hope, the dread, the love, it's all here and more. Cecilia Teague, plump, wears glasses, honorable and loves chocolate truffles is so easy to relate to and is adorable. Lord Ramsay, all I can say is complex and swoonworthy. I enjoyed every moment reading this book. The only bad part is that I finished it. I am looking forward to Frank’s story!

This is a 5 star MUST read.