I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads 
 A Scot in the Dark is the 2nd installment of the Scandal & Scoundrel's series, but it does feature a few well-known characters from MacLean's completed series in the past. 
 As a huge fan of Sarah MacLean, I was counting down the days until I could read this installment. Never failing to make me smile, make my heart sing with giddy romance, I wanted a hit of that intoxicating drug. But, sadly, A Scot in the Dark didn't work for me. 
 For the first half, I enjoyed the story immensely. Lillian & Warnick played well with one another, a ton of tension and witty banter. Many a time I found myself barking laughter out loud. Lillian was not a damsel in distress- strong, patient, and firm. 
 My issue was Duke Warnick for the most part. He was wishy-washy, taking page after page of redundant rumination. Most of his chapters of narrative were just rehashes of the same inner monologue from his chapter before. The same actions were repeated from around 40% of the book up until 95%. 
 It got old. 
 Fast. 
 But my biggest issue with the story was pacing. The actual premise was an addictively decadent one, but it wasn't strong or complex enough to support the page-count. Either there needed to be another thread of conflict or plot, or it would have changed the entire feel of the novel if 200 pages would have been shaved off. 
 50% of the book was drawn out, with the characters dragging their feet and getting nowhere chapter after chapter, with an obvious HEA ending on the horizon. Usually I enjoy the journey, but the journey was just a rehash from chapters' past. 
 In the reverse of most historical romances, the Duke's actions belied his thoughts and words, refusing to give into the inevitable. I'm going to sound harsh- I wish he would have given in sooner, both for their happiness as a couple and to alleviate my boredom. 
 The premise was a solid one, if the novel had been shorter or more conflict introduced. The characters were engaging and enjoyable, witty and strong, but the added page-length lessened, cheapened their characterization, as they had to continually do this or that when it wasn't necessary, in order for the author to meet a specific page-count. 
 On another note: I wish I could remember the title of the book, but I've read this exact plot before. I'm not saying no two books can use the same plot devices. But with it being such a unique plot device, my mind latched onto the plot of the other novel. I'm wracking my brain, as I felt the pacing and tension of the other novel were better executed. 
 Recommended for Sarah MacLean fans. However, I don't recommend this title for those who are trying out the author for the first time, as I fear without the fangirl-blinders on, I don't know if I would have finished it.