Beatrix Linley is the bastard daughter of the Duke of Ramsey who returns to London to reveal herself to her long lost father. While spying on him in the neighbors trees, she witnesses the tragic death of Viscountess Rockbourne one evening while fighting with her husband, Thomas Devereaux. After Tom is blamed for his wife's death after years of emotional abuse and Beatrix is on the verge of social ruin, will they find happiness in each other's arms?

This was my first book of The Pretenders series and I was a little concerned if I would be lost, but the author did a great job of filling the reader in on the back story without letting it overtake the main story. I enjoyed the storyline in this, as Beatrix ended up not being the typical "damsel in distress" but was a strong and determined heroine that helped Tom out. This was a delightful story and I can't wait to read book #3 of the series!

Thank you Netgalley for my ARC in exchange for my review and honest opinion.

I haven't read the first book in this series and I found this to be a bit of a detriment because there was a lot of backstory. Every character it seemed stemmed from a previous book and the explanations and descriptions got so convoluted at times that I stopped trying to remember it all and just took in the relevant parts.

'A Scandalous Bargain' had a great opening, unique and impacting and I love how it bound Beatrix and Thomas together from the off. Their relationship developed naturally and had some great spark at times.

It wasn't as sassy and full of banter as I usually like but I thought that the main plot and the interwoven subplots more than held my interest and made up for this.

My rating largely lowered because it was quite reliant on previous knowledge of other books and at times it did feel a bit repetitive. How many times a couple looked at each other lovingly across a room, how many times Thomas felt guilty.... there were several passages where I kind of skimmed because  it was a regurgitation of something previously explained or described.

An all round pleasant read!

I read this via Netgalley.

They promise to be friends and keep each other’s secrets.

Thomas and Beatrix meet on the night his wife accidentally fell to her death from their terrace. Beatrix just happened to be in a tree in his garden. She’s been watching her father who lives next door. His mother-in-law accuses him of murdering his wife. Can Tom prove he is innocent? Can Beatrix help him? What happened to the one piece of evidence that might prove Tom did not kill his wife?

Beatrix, the illegitimate daughter of a duke, enjoyed her childhood until her mother died and her father abandoned her. She may never regain her father’s favor, but she has friends who care for her. They are her family. Tom has endured a miserable marriage, but it produced a daughter he adores. Tom and Beatrix become friends, and more. Regan and Beatrix connect immediately. Selina, Harry, and his large family, and Tom’s Aunt Charity are here to offer support and advice. The story has a few twists and turns and some surprises as Tom and Beatrix work toward their HEA. I enjoyed this addition to the Pretenders series. I am looking forward to Rafe’s story.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

Beatrix, illegitimate daughter of Lord Ramsgate, wants her father to acknowledge her existence. Spying on his house from his neighbor's tree, she keeps longing to gain his attention. One night she witnesses an argument between Thomas, Viscount Rockbourne, and his wife... then her death. It was an accident, yes, but it's complicated to prove it when reputations and other people become part of the issue. As events unfold, Beatrix and Thomas both have decisions to make. Revealing the truth about both their past and the present. Only then can they trust each other and build a life together.
A complicated romance with
compassionate strong characters who look out for each other. Always a pleasure to read a book by Darcy Burke.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

What can I tell you, my heart is warm because this book made it. The story was truly entertaining and a wonderful journey to HEA. Although it´s a part of a series, it could be simply read as a standalone.
Every unfortunate who falls deep should get another chance. And here in this book, it was just a wonderful second chance for Beatrix to be introduced to society and to start living an honest life. Both characters were made for each other. Their chemistry, sense of humor, everything was right. Except they met under not blossoming circumstances. While spying on her father Beatrix witnessed the neighbor´s wife's unfortunate fatal accident. Thomas's, the Viscount Rockbourne, marriage hasn´t been a happy one, but he would never wish his wife death. Although the circumstances weren´t a happy one, they both felt an instant pull to one another. While Beatrix wishes for her father´s devotion and acknowledgment, Thomas has got an investigation of Bow Street of his wife´s death on his back. While he is innocent all the presented evidence speaks against it. The journey of both characters takes you on a spectacular rollercoaster ride, with a little bit of everything that a great book needs. I truly enjoyed every second of this thrilling story.

This is a second book in the Pretender series. I read this one without reading the first book, and this did very well as a standalone and without knowing the first story, which continues in this novel.

Our heroine is Beatrix Linley, the illegitimate daughter of a Duke who was sent away after her mother's day to a boarding school. Several years have passed, and Beatrix has made her way in the world but is now back in London. While sitting in a tree spying on her father the Duke, she quite literally stumbles across Thomas Devereaux (Lord Rockbourne) in an argument with his wife on a balcony. On witnessing the death of Thomas’ wife, Beatrix finds herself entangled in his life and they become friends.

What I found most endearing is Beatrix is who she is and really makes no apologies for it. To survive, she did some dishonorable things, which makes her the strong woman that she is. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a little murder investigation in their romance, friends to lovers trope and a strong heroine..

This is my honest review of this book based on an ARC from NetGalley.

I received an ARC of "A Scandalous Bargain" from Netgalley. It is written by the fabulous Darcy Burke.
Thomas Devereaux, Viscount Rockbourne, and Beatrix Whitford meet in a most unsuspecting manner and a scandalous bargain is made between the two. They both have some inner demons that they need to ostracize, but the burdens are heavy and the consequences of revealing them will hurt their loved ones. A beautiful story of patience and understanding.

I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an advance reader copy of this story.

A Scandalous Bargain, by Darcy Burke, is available at booksellers on 11-10-2020. This is Ms Burkes series The Untouchables: The Pretenders Book 2. I loved this couple, they were so good for each other from the very beginning. Poor Beatrix, I felt so sorry for her and completely understood why she did the things she did. I rooted for her from page 1, Thomas was harder to feel sorry for. He made his own mess. Still, he didn't deserve to be so miserable. Beatrix & Thomas save each other & I enjoyed every minute of it.

3.75 stars

Yay! Our 2nd Pretender, Beatrix, gets her happily ever after. Darcy Burke never fails to entertain.

Beatrix stumbles upon an unfortunate accident and death while scandalously hidden in a tree spying on her father, the Duke of Ramsgate. She is not a stranger to the tree or of overhearing the very loud quarrels of the garden's owners. Actually, she has developed quite the little crush on the master of the garden and feels more than a little empathy towards the man who is constantly berated by his wife.

Through a series of unfortunate acts, Thomas Deveraux, the Viscount Rockbourne finds himself suddenly a widower, discovers a witness to the act that no one can know about due to her potential ruin, and has attracted the unwanted attention of bow street in regards to his now late wife's untimely death. Furthering that, he finds his garden spy is actually quite enchanting and quite the breath of fresh air after the past 5 years of marriage.

A Scandalous Bargain was quite entertaining in the murder mystery aspect of what will happen now with the late wife's tales from beyond the grave and Tom's mother in laws machinations. I absolutely loved the tie ins from the Spitfire Society and from the last book's (A Secret Surrender) main plot. (The villain from the last book is the brother to the now late Viscountess, lies, deceptions from the last book further into this one, etc...) I did start to get a little bored towards the middle but I am suffering from a gigantic case of the blahs lately, so it was probably just me.

I love the discovery/remembering of Rafe and all the potential possibilities for discovering where Selina and Rafe came from. Wouldn't it also be wonderful if it had a connection with Beatrix's mother? Nah, probably too much of a stretch. I am hooked on this series and cannot wait for Rafe's book- A Rogue to Ruin to come out!

*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

Sensational, secret-filled romance!

We met Thomas in 'A Duke Will Never Do' and instantly felt sympathy for him as he discovers he was tricked into marrying the termagant, Thea. Then we get to know Beatrix in her sister's story, 'A Secret Surrender' and learn a little of her secrets. Now, the drama unfolding brings these two together as they strike a bargain to protect each other's secrets.

Only two people know the truth behind Thea's death, but greater secrets must be protected even when they hamper the resulting investigation. In this whirlwind story, the importance of trust and family are put to the test again and again.

I really enjoyed getting Beatrix's backstory and watching the culmination of her years-long quest unfold, even when it doesn't go exactly to plan. Thomas is a wonderfully strong character, a man whose inner goodness has saved him from a horrible situation. Together, these two have chemistry for days and an innate sense of their connection right from the start.

The plot has all the ups and downs, twists and turns a reader could want. We even get some hints about more revelations to come in the next book, and I for one can't wait to read it. Selena and Harry are strong secondary characters here, as is Harry's family, so if you've read their story you absolutely don't want to miss this one. Thomas and Beatrix's HEA is deliciously satisfying, making this one of my favorite Darcy Burke stories. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

This is another great addition in the series ‘The Pretenders’. Beatrix Linley, whilst spying on her father, stumbles across Thomas Devereaux (Lord Rockbourne) in an argument with his wife. On witnessing the death of Thomas’ wife, Beatrix finds herself entangled in his life. As their friendship begins to blossom, scandal and past secrets threaten to drive them apart.
Whilst this is part of a series, the relationship between Beatrix and her sister, Selina (Book 1) is made apparent and is seamlessly interwoven into the board. Their relationship is also part of what makes this such a great read. I enjoyed the characters of Thomas and Beatrix, who despite their troubles, almost throw their past behind them, in order to start afresh with their friendship and then their beautiful romance.
This is a series that continues to blossom, and I look forward to reading Rafe, the brother of Selina and Beatrix, whilst discovering more of their childhood.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I received an ARC in exchange for a review containing my honest thoughts about the book.

Overall rating: ★★★★☆

Pros: strong character profiles, stepping away from genre tropes, consensual sex scenes

Cons: low stakes, anachronisms

A Scandalous Bargain is the second book in Darcy Burke's The Pretenders series. I haven't read the first Pretenders book, unlike other reviewers; if you're wondering if you can pick up here, you absolutely can. Burke spends just enough time referring to the plot and circumstances of the previous book that a new reader would have no problem figuring out what's going on.

This entry revolves around two characters (as is often the case in Regency romance novels): Beatrix Linley and Thomas Devereaux. Beatrix is the illegitimate daughter of Duke of Ramsgate, and she wants nothing more than for the London ton- and more importantly, her father- to accept her as one of their own. Thomas is a peer himself, trapped in an abusive marriage. On the night that Beatrix and Thomas meet, Thomas's wife dies. Rumor surrounds the tragedy, with plenty of people believing that Thomas had reason to kill his unpleasant, unfaithful wife.

Unfortunately, the only witness to the event, Beatrix, is unable to step forward with the truth. She and her family would be ruined if she announced that she was at the scene of the accident. As Bow Street investigators and a lifelong dream close in on Thomas and Beatrix respectively, a tender and honest romance blossoms between the two.

I've never read a book by Darcy Burke, so this was my first impression of the author. Immediately, I found her characters interesting and engaging; even Viscountess Rockbourne- Thomas's late wife- existed throughout the book, and every mention of her painted a deeper profile of a real person instead of a two dimensional specter. Beatrix steps away from being a wilting, naïve debutante, and Thomas doesn't fall into the easy mold of roguish English lord. Beatrix has had sex in the past; Thomas doesn't care, and at no point does the meta narrative make Beatrix seem as if she needs redemption from her past. Thomas is a father, and his daughter is a central point of the story. Gossip is relevant to the story, and not a device to create unnecessary misery. If you're interested in a romance novel that doesn't lean into everything already done, Burke does an excellent job of not relying on tropes.

However, some people may not enjoy the more modern turns of phrase and narrative voice that the author uses. If you're a stickler for absolute period accuracy, you may have a bone to pick with the way characters sometimes flaunt societal conventions at the time. I, on the other hand, honestly found it refreshing-- especially the sex scenes. I tend to avoid erotic scenes in romance novels because of dubious consent, cheesiness, and terrible language (of which has made me hate the words "tool" and "member"). Burke emphasized consent, set up a safe environment for both characters, and furthered the plot within the scenes. I read them, and enjoyed them, which is a first for me.

Overall, I would absolutely recommend this book. It doesn't do anything miraculous for the genre, but if you're tired of the same-old, then give it- and the first Pretenders book- a try!

The second book by this author that I've read and it certainly won't be the last. Again definitely on the spicy side, so not for those who don't enjoy such stories, but this didn't put me off although I do prefer "sweet" stories. Beatrix's back story, the illegitimate daughter of a Duke's mistress, and the way she tries to overcome this plus Thomas's loveless marriage really struck a cord with me and I ended up really enjoying this story, hence my 5* score.
I have read one other story previously by this author, plus another one to follow, so will have to start purchasing all her other books.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

Another enjoyable read by Ms. Burke! Another pair has the opportunity to find a happily ever after after both having been through so much. Beatrix was sent away after her mother died, not wanted by her father, for she is illegitimate. Beatrix wants her father's love and it set to prove to him he is a daughter to be proud of. There is a little problem...Beatrix has a habit of stealing things without realizing it, which makes her a good thief. She has lied about many things, but upon meeting Tom, things begin to change. Tom was in a horrid marriage, one that he was manipulated into. Now he is being accused of murder and the only witness is Beatrix, whom he will not allow her to say anything since it would ruin her reputation. Rather, it begins as a friendship between the two and grows into more. But Tom has no desire to marry again and Beatrix has lied about her identity. With pressure coming from Bow Street about the death of Tom's wife, Beatrix will have to choose between her reputation and love.
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Everyone is keeping secrets. Thomas was there when his wife fell off the balcony. Beatrix is the illegitimate daughter of a duke. Beatrix has a nervous habit of stealing that she is unaware she is doing. When everything starts to come out, they must turn to each other for support. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Darcy Burke Publishing for my honest review.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from A Scandalous Bargain, except that I was intrigued to find out Beatrix’s story after getting to know her a bit in the previous book.

I was intrigued to learn more about her, how she hopes to prove herself to her father, who abandoned her. I found her a lot more sympathetic than the first book suggested, where she seemed somewhat unlikable at times.

I also was engaged in Thomas’ story arc, as he’s had a miserable marriage and his wife died in mysterious circumstances. It was great to see these two come together and find a spark in each other, in spite of their past baggage.

However, something I continue to struggle with is Darcy Burke’s attempts to add suspense to her books. I always feel like there’s so much potential, but they never go the extra mile to be suspenseful, resulting in it feeling somewhat underwhelming, especially as Thomas and Beatrix first meet over his dead wife’s body.

I feel like a lot of my issues stem from my complicated relationship with romantic suspense and cozy mysteries (I love a good bloody murder mystery, so both make no sense to me at times), and the fact that the book is not primarily billed as romantic suspense also suggests that the light touches of suspense were not meant to be prominent. I think if this is not an issue for you, and you’re a historical romance fan, you’ll enjoy this.

I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review

Both sweet and sexy, this author just keeps getting better and better! Looking forward to the next one

This is my fair and honest review, voluntarily given and in my own words, for this ARC. I have read each of the books in this series. They can be read as stand alone but gosh they are even better when you recognise all of the characters from story to story! Each of the characters are so unique and so UN-TON like. The stories are delightful.

Will her past and his present tear them apart ...

After reading Selina’s story, I was intrigued by Beatrix as there were more to her than what left the eyes.
And the opening scene was quite a big leap in this story. Like the plunge the hero’s wife took from their balcony. Like the jump Beatrix made to reach him. Like the step Thomas took to connect with this stranger. Like the hop they did together in trusting one another.
Theirs is a tale of faith and trust.
Beatrix had to adapt to her life’s circumstances for the last decade and a half. It cemented her relationship with Selina, while they are not sisters by blood, they became by heart.
They made choices and took actions they are not always proud about, but they did it to survive as life is very unfair to the weakest and even worse if they are females.
But with Thomas, she felt an instant connection, so much she shares scraps of her past with him, something she never has done before. But the timing is so wrong, she is on a mission, one does not include love. But she would gladly befriend this kind and caring man, one who is honest about his flaws.
Thomas had lost every illusions he had about his wife, and now even from the grave, she continues to threaten his peace. And while her death is a tragedy, it put on his path an unexpected miss, one who jumps fences, fights footpad, crashes toes when she wants to deflect suitors, is kind to his daughter, makes him smile.
While reawakening feelings he buried, she rises his curiosity. He wants more from her, even if he feels he should not, he is in mourning, left more damaged by his nightmarish marriage than before.
Yet while fighting their attraction, they reveal more to one another than to anyone else. It depends their friendship to move to more, but when their security is in distress, they will have to chose between renown and sentiments.
4.5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

Beatrice and Thomas's story is a fascinating one. It is filled with trying times and love.
The characters are interesting and loveable. The storyline is fantastic.
Darcy Burke has done it again.