In Scandal in Spades, the book is written in typical Regency flair, with poetic flow and meanings hidden between. It is a story of about finding one's true worth and deciding what to do with that realization. And much like the beautifully written Regency stories out there, Wendy LaCapra's is brilliantly written with descriptive prose and innuendos. Be fair warned though - if you're not used to the language used in that era, it can be a bit confusing or daunting to get the gist of it. But no matter because the story itself is a wonderful piece of work.

Scandal in Spades begins with a rather alarming albeit confusing declaration from the main hero, Lord Bromton, the Marquess of Bromton. We are immediately put in a situation where we wonder why he was in it in the first place. But be patient as this revelation is revealed later on. Lord Bromton (Giles) is a noble gentleman and determines that he must right the wrongs of his parents' past deeds. Feeling he has no other way to right his own honor, he must do what no normal man of nobility must do - and that is to give away his entire name and holdings.

The heroine, Lady Katherine falls from grace after not one, but two mishaps in her life. Were she not of noble birth, her slights would most likely have been ignored or simply frowned upon. But as the daughter of an Earl, and sister of the present Earl, one single slight from the "Prinny's" right hand man turns her into a pariah of society. She is thus determined "unsuitable for marriage". While Katherine is still young, she is no longer young in that era. Deciding she'd rather live a life of spinsterhood than go through the humiliation brought upon by a single disgrace, she is shocked and mostly suspicious of the Marquess visiting and staying with her family as a "guest". She suspects and fears that this magnanimous Marquess will find her just as scandalous as the scandals that have surrounded her for the past few years. But she doesn't know that Lord Bromton has secrets of his own and the main reason why he needs to marry Katherine.

I really enjoyed reading Scandal in Spades. It's a fitting title and the cover also fits the two main characters. While I personally felt that Lord Bromton was too typical of the brooding, self-damned hero, he was easy to like and root for as the heartbroken and determined guilt-ridden individual. The two main characters, Lord Bromton and Lady Katherine are immediately drawn to each other and the clashing of tongues and smart dialogue is so fun to read! You can tell that their personalities, while different, has some similarities. They are both headstrong, determined, and kind, although Bromton doesn't mark himself as a kind person since he is courting Katherine under false pretenses.

There are miscommunication and misunderstandings in the story of course which makes it both frustrating and enticing to read. And perhaps that's what makes these type of Regency romance books so interesting - that the hero and/or heroine must triumph over many obstacles in order to get to each other. A bit frustrating in real life of course, but the path to true love is never easy.

I recommend Scandal in Spades if you want a fast-paced, fun read about a self-deprecating hero trying to redeem himself and find out what true love really means. There are several supporting characters in this story and most of them are glossed over, if not fairly important. The purpose of this story is really about Katherine and Giles Bromton and how they both rise from the ashes which they were both burned in.

*A note of the sexuality in this book - there are instances of some sexuality and descriptions that make this book for adults and those who don't mind reading a bit of "raunch".

Thank you, Netgally for the ARC.

Scandal In Spades by Wendy LaCapra is my much anticipated return of a much loved author. This book contains intrigue, a fast pace and fabulous romance with genuinely fascinating characters. Ms LaCapra just knows how to suck a reader in and not let go. I pray that she is here to stay and more titles are forthcoming. Bravo Wendy LaCapra

Giles Langley, the Marquess of Bromton has learned that he is a bastard. As he is an honorable man, he attempts to bestow his estate upon the rightful heir by manipulating a high-stakes card game. When the winner says that he doesn't want the estate, but he wants Bromton to marry his older sister, Bromton agrees.

Lady Katherine has lived the life of a recluse and spinster since Brummell declared she was the least marriageable lady in all of England. Her brother brings home his friend, the Marquess of Bromton. Katherine knows her brother is attempting a match. After attempting to foil the attempt, Bromton slowly wins over Katherine. Katherine agrees to marry Bromton. When he is forced to acknowledge his past, he could destroy his own future.

What a great read! I loved the characters and the plot. The connection between Katherine and Bromton was great. They were perfect for each other. I liked how she helped him find himself again. The secondary characters added to the plot.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

I greatly enjoyed this book. I was entertained and read it quickly. I am looking forward to reading more by Ms. LaCapra.

Giles, The Marquess of Bromton, has just discovered he is illegitimate. Raised to be a rigid nobleman who prized honour and duty, Bromton feels he has no choice but to give the estate to the rightful heir. Manipulating a card game, he sets out to lose to his friend and the rightful heir, Markham. Markham, however, has a bet of his own. His sister has sequestered herself in the country and a scandal and is deemed unmarriageable. The two men agree that Bromton should marry Lady Katherine to fulfil the debt.
Lady Katherine has no interest in meeting another of her brother’s friends. Tired of being the centre of a scandal, she sets out to repel Bromton. The two can’t help but be drawn to one another and agree to marry. Once Katherine discovers the bet, can she forgive Bromton.
While I enjoyed this book, I could have done without Julia and her foolish actions. It was unnecessary to the plot and I feel, detracted from the story. It’s obvious the author intends to use this in a later novel.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. For more reviews please visit my blog:
http://www.wonderfullyweird88.com/

This is the first book I've read by LaCapra, but it definitely won't be the last. This novel was a beautiful mix of a compelling plot, likeable characters, and steamy love scenes.

I enjoyed reading this story. It had many ups and downs - lots of scandal-but worth the rollercoaster ride. This story is well written and it had me turning the pages from the first page to the last all in one go!

When Giles, the Marquess of Bromton, manipulates a high-stakes card game, he never thought the tables would be turned on him when the person he loses to demands he court then marry his spinster sister. However, when Giles meets Lady Katherine he never imagined he was getting the better end of the bargain. Will Giles win Katherine's heart or will the truth about his parentage keep him from ever being happy?

I have been reading more and more Historical romances recently, and I am absolutely loving the ones I've read lately, and Ms. LaCapra delivers a delightful and entertaining read in this first book of her Lords of Chance series where the main and secondary characters were compelling; the dialogue drew me in and had me loving the growing relationship between the hero and heroine, as the hero has an ulterior motive in getting close to Katherine; and the fast-paced plot had me hooked from the beginning because Giles got the better end of the bargain. Not that he realizes that when the bargain is first struck, but the moment the hero and heroine meet there's plenty of chemistry.

As for the main characters. the heroine is independent, fierce and I liked the close relationship she shares with her siblings. I also liked the challenge Katherine provided the hero, as she too is haunted by past demons and doesn't want to drag his good name through the mud. While the hero, he's confident, persistent in his pursuit of the heroine and I liked the close friendship he shares with his three friends where each of them have cool nicknames. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero is how he faced his demons, so that he didn't lose his chance with the heroine since it was holding him back from achieving happy ever after with Katherine.

Overall, Ms. LaCapra has penned a really good read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance wonderful once the heroine gives in to her desire for the hero; and the ending made me so happy because of what the hero does. What's life without a little scandal? However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, as marriage and Katherine are good for the hero. I would recommend Scandal in Spades by Wendy LaCapra, if you enjoy Historical romance or books by authors Stacy Reid, Elizabeth Keysian, Maddison Michaels and Darcy Burke.

I really enjoyed this brilliant historical romance with its great characters, plenty of intrigue and well developed story line. It is one of those stories that I really didn’t want anyone or anything to interrupt me reading.

With a hero determined to ensure the rightful heir to the properties he inherited has them, the Marquess of Bromton tries to manipulate things, only to discover that he’s the one being manipulated! Lady Katherine is a delightful heroine, someone wrongly maligned by the Ton as the least marriageable lady in all of England. She’s wary of the Marquess and his attentions but the attraction between them just keeps on growing! Can they resist each other? What will happen when she discovers his motivations?

With family secrets, manipulating siblings, surprises and so much more this is an engaging and highly entertaining read which I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending to anyone who enjoys this genre. I’ll definitely jump at any chance to read any future works by this exceptionally talented author!

I requested and was lucky enough to be given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.

3.5 stars, Scandal in Spades is certainly an enjoyable romance novel, even if it did get a bit angsty, wordy and confusing at times. Bromton is more than upset that he is a bastard - not in name, just in truth - he is devastated to learn that his life isn't what it seems. He decides to be noble and "lose" his estate and all his money to the man he believes should be the rightful heir.
So he does, but Markham makes a different wager - marry his spinster sister and have an heir, this will right the world and any bad karma. Bromton joins Markham in traveling to Markham's estate to meet Katherine.
Katherine was once named "The Most Unmarriable Woman in England" by Beau Brummell. She has been twice engaged, her first fiancee died and the second cried off. Katherine hid from the world, raised her younger sister and ruminated in the country.
Katherine is appalled that her brother would bring a man into her world again. Maybe he will try to seduce the pitiable spinster and laugh about her with his friends. Bromton is immediately attracted to Katherine and believes he has made a good bargain. He also knows the marriage won't last, who would want to be married to a bastard?, but is willing to give it a go for the necessary heir.
There is chemistry, and some heat, between Bromton and Katherine, but lots of misunderstandings. Sometimes characters need to engage in honest and simple conversation. The prose is a bit wordy and confusing at times, I felt like I was missing a back story. I like the angst and I would recommend this book to other romance readers.

This is just my opinion in short about "Scandal In Spades" as I work on my full review which will be published on my blog as well as goodreads, amazon and booklikes.

I absolutely ADORED this story. Everything about it. From the setting to the characters, to the dialogues and humorous moments-- every single thing! It's been a long time since I read a book that hooked me to the point I pretty much gulped it down in two days, which isn't a common occurrence for me these days. Katherine and Giles had the chemistry I always long to read about but I don't often find. Even though I have little to complain about, I only wished there were more chapters of them together after they resolved their issues finally.

I've admired Wendy LaCapra's writing since the publication of her Furies series and I have a strong feeling she won't disappoint in the new Lords of Chance series. Eagerly waiting for the next installments. I recommend it to any historical romance lover. 4.5 stars.

Giles has learned that he was born a bastard and not the heir to the Marquess of Bromton and plans on having the rightful heir get what he is due. Unfortunately, his plan doesn’t work and Markham doesn’t want it. Instead he wants Giles to marry is spinster sister. Will he go through with the wedding? This is a good read with plenty of drama. I liked the characters as well the story.

Oh how it is good every once in awhile to escape back in time with the exhilarating times that happened in romance. Ones that make you blood simmer and your emotions quake as this one did. This one centered around Lady Katherine and Giles whom captivate you into their world and ways. To think some of things guys got away with back in the day and women and their place. Stir the emotions this one will with you following close along to see where their road ends up with thanks to their start they have. Pulls on the heart also with the romance that heats the pages in the way only this place in time can do.

Giles Everhart Langley, or Spade to his friends, 3rd Marquess of Bromton is a bastard. His entire existence is a lie. He was drilled to be the Marquess, but his estranged mother's damning revelation made him feel unworthy of the title and everything that comes with it, and had planned to relinquish to the rightful heir, Lord Markham, by cheating to lose on Vingt-et-tun.

Lady Katherine Stanley dubbed by Beau Brummell as the "Most Unmarriageable Maiden in England" after two failed betrothals, has resigned to her fate as a spinster. She cares for her younger sister, Julia and manages the Markham estate. She is concerned that Julia will bear the taint of her ruined reputation.

Lord Markham has declined his winnings and proffered that Lord Bromton court and marry his spinster sister. It would be advantageous to Giles to be marrying Katherine, she has the right bloodline and would put the Langley legacy to rights. Katherine would also benefit from being a Marchioness, her title would be valuable for Julia's future.

The pompous Marquess of Bromton who abhors more scandals attached to his name, has been brought down a peg or two by his mother's damaging disclosure. But he has develop a real tendre for Lady Katherine who in turn was quite taken with the Marquess.

When the truth unfolds, Katherine believed she was just a broodmare. Giles had to win her back.

My heart bled for Giles and Katherine. They are victims of cataclysmic circumstances of their undoing. I absolutely admire the Marquess' scandalous public grovelling to appease the hurt he caused his Marchioness.

This is such a heart-rending story of a lonely Marquess who wanted the affection of his mother, and his wife. Wendy LaCapra has written this so well. Five stars.

I voluntarily read an eGalley copy. This is my honest and impartial review.

Spellbinding, Heart pounding, Entrancing. There are so many great thoughts I want to say about this book. It gripped my heart from the beginning and did not let go until the end. LaCapra's well drawn characters came to life to the point I could feel their emotions. This is one of my favorite tropes of the emotionally wounded hero and heroine who become healed by love. Giles, the Marquess of Bromton, finds out he is a bastard after his "fathers" death, but all his life had been harshly groomed for his position. He and his mother are estranged after she tells him the truth and he feels he does not deserve to be the heir. He and three of his friends have named themselves after the cards of Spades, Hearts, Diamonds and Clubs and have formed a bond. Giles finds One of his friends Markam aka Hearts is a distant relative, and he devises a scheme to lose his property to him, a rightful heir. But as life does not always go as planned, Giles ends up agreeing to court and hopefully marry Markam's spinster sister Katherine, who is deemed "the most unmarriageable maiden in England". This is where the story begins to have many twist and turns and very strong emotions. As they meet, Katherine feels she is not worthy of anyone and will never find true happiness in a marriage. But fate has a possibly different plan. This story made my romantic heart beat faster as the story unfolded and I became invested in Giles and Katherine. Great secondary characters, that I cannot wait to see in future stories blended with suspense and closely held secrets held me captive to the end. Well done Wendy LaCapra!!

The Marquess of Bromton, Giles “Spades” Langley, is living a lie. In Scandal In Spades he discovers his father, the late Marquess, is not really his father and sets out to make things right.

Discovering that his friend Lord Markham would have actually inherited had Giles not been born, he arranges a card game and cheats to lose. He figures that he can give all of the unentailed properties to Markham, and in this way maybe it will assuage his guilt.

Markham seems to know that the card game was fixed and convinces Giles to marry his sister. Realizing that any offspring from a union between himself and Markham’s sister would then make the Langley line legitimate again, Bromton agrees.

Lady Katherine was deemed “the most unmarriageable lady in the kingdom” by none other than Beau Brummel himself. She lost her first fiancé to illness, and her second fiancé to his mistress, when he fled to the Indies following a duel over the mistress’ honor.

That attempt at wit from Brummel cost her everything. Following the quip and the lurid speculation surrounding her second fiancé’s scandal, she has now removed herself entirely from society.

When Giles comes to court her, she does not understand why the Marquess is interested. She is afraid that he is there to make fun at her expense. But once he starts turning on the charm she quickly realizes she has lost.

Excellent Characters Enjoyably Written

In the Regency era, a reputation could be lost with a quip which is exactly what happens to Lady Katherine. I enjoyed how the author portrayed her character as someone strong enough to move on from such a devastating blow.

Even though his secret is not publicly known, I could feel the shame Giles felt. I feel the author did an excellent job in truly bringing these characters to life.

If you like a good steamy romance then this is definitely a book for you. I will be on the lookout for more from Wendy LaCapra.

Reviewed for LnkToMi iRead in response to a complimentary copy of the book provided by the publisher in hopes of an honest review.

I absolutely loved Katherine and Giles story!!

Trying to right a wrong, Giles enters into a card games and promptly loses his estates to The Earl of Markham. But Markham doesn't want the estates, he wants his eldest sister married. Giles then ventures to Markham's estates to meet Katherine to see if they would suit. He quickly starts to have feelings for Katherine and starts to court her in earnest, but then she learns how he came to court her and everything blows up in his face. Can he earn back the trust and love that he desperately wants from Katherine?

This story had me on pins and needles throughout it! I didn't want to put the book down!!

This was a great start to what appears to be another awesome series by LaCapra! I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

An interesting and humorous romance, Scandal in Spades in a promising start to an original series. Overall the story is well written, with a style that is easy to enjoy. Though the hero seems to fall in love rather quickly, the romance is touching and the couple interactions are as entertaining as they are enticing. The plot is well developed with a story a reader can easily be drawn into accompanied by a cast of characters a reader can invest in. Add in some steamy scenes, and Scandal in Spades is a well-rounded novel begging to be on your TBR list.

Giles Langley the Marquess of Bromton has learned news that devastated all he held important. Now for the sake of his honour he must try and put things right. That's why he has just cheated at cards. He played to lose but the man he played with has a different agenda.
Lady Katherine Markham was the subject of a cruel jibe after two betrothals and no wedding. Now five years later she has decided to stay a spinster. Unfortunately her brother has plans to bring a friend home. Last time he did that she was humiliated again. She must act first.
Our hero has not had a particularly happy life and sees no way to change that.
Our heroine wants nothing more than to protect her family from more scandal. She would also protect herself from more heartache.

It can be embarrassing to be reading in a coffee shop and crying at the same time. (You get funny looks) That's what happened to me when I was reading this, especially near the end. You can't help but get involved in our characters emotions.
This book will certainly play on your sympathy. There is a grand romance to go with it though, so you will be sure to enjoy it all. I did.

Giles Langley, Marquess of Bromton who is known to his friends as ‘Spades’ has thrown a card game so that the Early of Markham (Hearts) who is a distant relative from the Langley line, will receive all his properties. In purposely loosing, he hopes to right the wrong caused when his mother revealed that he was a bastard, and not the son of the Marquess. However, Markham realises that the wager was staged but forces him to take back his estate and instead marry his sister, Katherine. Katherine has faced ruin but only because her first fiancée died and her second, left her for another before their marriage, only to have Beau Brummell, declare her the ‘most unmarriageable maiden in England’. Such events have lead her to find comfort in the family home, caring for her younger sister and avoiding any relationships beyond that of her family and the local townsfolk. When Giles finally meets Katherine, he is soon entranced and can’t wait to marry her. However, when all the cards seem to be falling into place for him, his initial reasons are revealed, and he is left to make Katherine believe his true feelings.
Katherine and Giles are two great characters, who with their own secrets, struggle to reveal themselves to the other. Whilst I wanted them to be honest with the other, it would only mean heartache. This was such a beautiful story, and one that I didn’t want to end but knew that it had to if all was to be restored between the pair. There were so many great secondary characters and I look forward to reading about the rest of Giles’ friend (Diamonds and Club) and Katherine’s sister. I have decided to fill the void of waiting for the next book in the series, by buying other books by Wendy LaCapra, my new favourite author.
I received an advanced review copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.