Lady Sophia Southwell's mother was killed when she was young. Even with the help of various individuals, they are stymied in their search for why she was killed and who ordered the death. Blessed with a keen, anaylytical mind, Lady Sophia is determined to be part of the search for the answers.

Sophia and Lord Stonecliffe's families always talked about the two of them marrying. They are to be engaged to be married...some day Yet, Sophia, has always been drawn to Stonecliffe's younger brother, Nicholas Bourne.

Nicholas has returned from India a wealthy but changed man. His drinking and ruinous lifestyle make him an unlikely hero. However, when Sophia appeals to him for help in her search for more answers, Nicholas will vow to change his lifestyle so that he can be the best aide to Sophia.

The search for the killer will lead them into the seamiest parts of London and into a conspiracy that goes higher than they could imagine. Together, they will face danger and their past.

With a plot that twists and turns, readers will be kept wondering and hoping for more information. Even with the actual killer identified, there are more secrets to be revealed in this series. As we watch Nicholas and Sophia, their love for each other is gradually revealed. Even as they strive to keep it secret, their investigation will expose it in countless ways.

THE SCOUNDREL TAKES A BRIDE is a very good read with interesting characters. A well-plotted story with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged doesn't hurt either. Miss Sloan's writing improves with each story. Since this is the fifth entry in the series, one might want to start at the beginning. It's a testament to the writing that one doesn't need to start at the first book to keep track of what is happening. Each story is complete but continues the theme.