When widower Aberforth Pritchard, the Ravenkeeper of the Tower of London is murdered, Inspector Henry Field of Scotland Yard is put on the case. HenryWhen widower Aberforth Pritchard, the Ravenkeeper of the Tower of London is murdered, Inspector Henry Field of Scotland Yard is put on the case. Henry is a 3rd generation Inspector and has a lot to prove, given that his father and grandfather were legends at Scotland Yard and were both promoted to Chief Inspector, leading many to believe that Henry was given his promotions and isn’t nearly as proficient as his predecessors. Henry strongly refuted these accusations, but a recent unsolved murder has him questioning himself and making him more determined than ever to solve the Ravenkeeper’s murder. His first order of business will be finding Aberforth’s missing seven-year-old daughter Maeve.
As luck would have it (or maybe not), Maeve is returned to the Tower by none other than Amelia Greystone, the widow of Matthew Greystone – the victim of Henry’s unsolved murder. Amelia was shocked when Maeve arrived at her home in the early morning, barefoot and wearing only her nightdress. Amelia barely knows the child, having met her when Amelia interviewed her father for the periodical she writes for and having invited her to her home to visit her laboratory. Amelia has a keen interest in chemistry, thanks to her father, but it has been nothing more than a hobby, and at her parents urging, she started writing for the magazine not long after the death of her husband. But his was not the only death she has had to endure; she also lost her three-year-old daughter to Scarlett Fever not long before Matthew was murdered, which put a strain on their already floundering relationship. Amelia agrees to keep Maeve until her relatives can be found, as the girl is deaf and mute and clearly feels comfortable with her. She is happy to see that Henry is on the case, despite her husband’s unsolved murder, she knows he is intelligent and dedicated. And when he asks for her help, she is happy to give it. But keeping Maeve and helping Henry may be more dangerous than any of them realize!
I really enjoyed this story, I don’t normally read historical mystery, but having read all of this author’s historical romance books, I knew I would not be disappointed. This was a well-written, nicely researched book with an intriguing mystery, wonderful characters and a satisfying ending that left me excited to read the next installment! The mystery was well-done, but I did feel like the story sometimes got lost in the details as the author gives the reader a lot of information that isn’t necessarily pertinent to the story. This is the author's first foray into the Historical Mystery genre, so it may just be a case of finding her stride and her future books will only be better for it!
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *...more
When one of her students goes missing, bluestocking teacher Phoebe Atkinson doesn’t think twice about investigating alone. But when she finds herself When one of her students goes missing, bluestocking teacher Phoebe Atkinson doesn’t think twice about investigating alone. But when she finds herself in trouble, she turns to an old friend, William “Will” Margrave, the uppity, oh-so-perfect Duke of Ellis for help. Together they will navigate the darker side of London and along the way reconnect after years apart. But can there be anything lasting between them? Especially since Phoebe has no desire to conform to society’s rules for women and Will needs a perfect duchess.
Years ago, Will and Phoebe were good friends and shared a mutual attraction, but all that changed when Will inherited the dukedom and all the responsibilities that came with it. He lost touch with Phoebe but continued to maintain a friendship with her elder sister Alexandra “Alex”. Will has spent years learning to be the perfect duke and is now in search of the perfect duchess, and even has a candidate selected. But when Phoebe needs his help, he quickly puts his courtship on hold and runs to Phoebe’s side. He quickly realizes that his attraction to her is just as strong as it ever was, but nothing could come of it, since Phoebe will never be a proper duchess.
This was a well-written story with interesting characters, but it wasn’t the book I was hoping for. I never really connected with Phoebe or Will, and honestly didn’t feel the “romance”. I was hoping for a fun, sexy Friends-to-Lovers, Second-Chance romance, and in the strictest sense it was that just minus the “fun, sexy” part. The book dragged and I got annoyed with Phoebe’s judgmental and martyrish ways, as well as Will’s constant lamenting that Pheobe wasn’t good enough to be his duchess. Overall, it was an OK story with a happy ending and while I didn’t love this book, I did like her sisters and would probably read their stories.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. * ...more
Aimee Thornton-Jones, the only child of American shipping magnate Thomas Thornton-Jones, wants nothing more than to be allowed to work in her father’sAimee Thornton-Jones, the only child of American shipping magnate Thomas Thornton-Jones, wants nothing more than to be allowed to work in her father’s company, to prove to him that she one day she should inherit and run his business, unfortunately her parents have a different plan for her. They expect her to marry and become a proper wife and mother. To achieve that goal, they have planned a trip to England for Aimee and her cousin/companion Evie, Aimee will participate in the London season and Evie will train as a secretary in her father’s London office. But weeks before their trip, Aimee’s mother breaks her leg, which means she will not be able to accompany the girls to England, but rather than cancel the trip, her mother decides that her cousin Evie is an adequate chaperone for the sea journey. Which gives Aimee the perfect opportunity to implement her scheme, she will switch places with her cousin and train at her father’s business while Evie will pretend to be her in society. Aimee will learn the business and be able to prove to her father that she is capable of running his company one day. She has planned for everything except for her unwanted attraction to her father’s protégée and operations manager for his London offices, Harrison Stone.
Harrison Stone is a self-made man, who has but one goal in life and that is to prove to his father’s family that he doesn’t need them to succeed. And after years of hard work, he is one deal away from making all his dreams come true, everything is going as planned until his boss’s niece shows up and affects him like no woman ever has. But Evie is nothing like the woman Thomas described, and it isn’t long before he figures out the truth. She is a distraction he doesn’t want or need, and he would love to ship her back to New York, but he needs her help to save his deal from falling through. He just needs to keep his hands (and other bits) to himself and keep his eye on the prize, because love is not for him. But even the disciplined Harrison Stone is not immune to love and decides that marriage to Aimee is the perfect solution, too bad Aimee isn’t willing to play by his terms.
This was a well-written, fast paced story with likable characters that is its own story and not simply a different POV retelling of the first book despite the parallel timeline. Aimee and Harrison are both stubborn, intelligent, alpha types who are both resistant to love and whose headbutting is only exceeded by their shared passion. This story has a decent mystery, great secondary characters, espionage, hidden identities, secrets, steamyish love scenes, some surprises, some twists, and turns before the HEA. Overall, I enjoyed the book even though I was not a huge fan of the ending, but I did like the epilogue and hope that the teaser contained therein means that this series is not over! This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title or out of order, as the two books run parallel but barely intersect.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *...more
Orphaned Emeline Fitzpatrick is desperate to be free of her guardians, the very strict Shackletons and to begin a new life with her love, Lieutenant FOrphaned Emeline Fitzpatrick is desperate to be free of her guardians, the very strict Shackletons and to begin a new life with her love, Lieutenant Frederick Fletcher in Bermuda. But when she is caught in a compromising situation with Frederick, her guardians quickly arrange her marriage to a man of their choosing, widower Captain Graves and she is sent away, with hopes that her Lieutenant will rescue her. When Emeline arrives at Faraday House, she soon learns that the captain’s second wife, Georgina, though gravely ill, is not dead! Emeline with the help of Georgina, the cold, but intriguing Reverand Pellerine and some supernatural intervention, is determined to discover the truth of Faraday House and just maybe find her own HEA.
I was so excited to read this book, I love a good gothic romance and was really looking forward to this book after reading the blurb. Then I started it and realized that it is written in the First-Person Narrative, I hate FPN. Then as I continued reading, it became obvious that this story is definitely more mystery than romance, but it has a strong gothic feel, and the mystery was well plotted albeit slow moving. I personally find it hard to connect with characters in the first person, so I struggled with this book, but lovers of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights will probably enjoy this story more than I did. Overall, it was a decent read with a happy ending. Not a book I would read again, but if you like gothic mystery with a dash of supernatural and don’t mind FPN, you will probably enjoy this book.
3 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *...more
Wallflower Lady Prudence “Prue” Davies is no stranger to rogues, so when one literally falls at her feet, she knows better than to be charmed by a hanWallflower Lady Prudence “Prue” Davies is no stranger to rogues, so when one literally falls at her feet, she knows better than to be charmed by a handsome face. But Silas Hayward, Viscount Windstead, seems different and he clearly loves his grandmother, so maybe she is wrong about him! But that illusion is shattered when she learns he is taking part in the “Wallflower Wager”, a bet made between rogues, the winner will be the first man to dance with 12 different wallflowers at 12 different balls. With her mind set, Prue sets out to unite the wallflowers and teach the rogues a lesson, but that was before she fell for Silas and realizes their only chance of being together would be if he wins. Can she have it all? Or will she have to choose between love and honor?
Silas Hayward, Viscount Windstead, needs money to save his family from financial ruin and his options for gaining that money are limited. He has an idea for a windmill design that he is sure could be successful, but he needs money to make a prototype – thus his participation in the wager. If that fails, he will have to marry an heiress and put his dreams and his heart on the back burner in order to help his family. He had all but resigned himself to a loveless marriage when he meets Prue and is smitten. But when his best chance at an investor is shot down, he realizes how much he cares about Prue and decides it is better to cut ties with her and do his duty. Even if it breaks his heart, but as any romance reader knows, love will find a way and Silas just has to trust his heart, but is that a risk he is willing to take?
This was a very sweet novella with ties to the Mayfair Literary League. I really like Prue and Silas, they are both extremely likable and I love how they encouraged and boosted each other. Their road to HEA isn’t easy, but they are clearly “meant to be” and you can’t help but root for them. This book is the twentieth (yes, 20th) book in the Revenge of the Wallflowers series and can easily be read as a standalone title. I really liked this book and would happily recommend it to historical romance readers.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. * ...more
Thrice widowed, Delia, Lady Stratham has found her calling by working closely with her dear friend, hotelier Cesar Ritz as an events coordinator at LoThrice widowed, Delia, Lady Stratham has found her calling by working closely with her dear friend, hotelier Cesar Ritz as an events coordinator at London’s famous Savoy Hotel. But things take a drastic turn when she returns from a month-long trip to Paris to find the employees of the Savoy in an uproar and Cesar and his Second in Command out of the country. The hotel’s owners Richard and Helen Carte have hired Simon Hayden, the newly minted Viscount Calderon, to be the hotel’s new administrator to oversee operations and to cut costs, as the hotel has been steadily losing money. Delia is surprised at this turn of events and with her loyalty firmly with Cesar, she at first resists the changes Lord Calderon tries to implement and is especially upset over the dismissal of so many employees. But with time, she decides it would be in everyone’s best interest if she at least tried to get along with him. Thinking she might be able to charm him into seeing reason. However, it is Delia who begins to see reason and despite her loyalty to Cesar, she has to admit that Simon’s policies have merit, and he is not the cold, heartless man she thought he was. In fact, he is the first man in years that has captured her interest. But with secrets galore, old fears, past pain and split loyalties, can anything come of her infatuation?
Simon Hayden, was born into the hotel business, his mother was employed as a hotel housekeeper and his father a cashier, and thanks to a scholarship to Harrow, Simon believed he too would be in the business. But scandal struck his family and led him in a different direction. He joined the Army and not only became a hero, but he also made a fortune, which he invested in what else – a hotel. It was during this time he was befriended by Richard and Helen Carte, they became business partners and Simon joined the board of directors for the Savoy. After several quarters of no profits, the investors are angry and want answers, leading Simon to go undercover at the hotel to oversee operations and keep the employees distracted while the Cartes have Cesar and his cronies investigated. At first Simon is sure that Delia is part of the corruption, but soon realizes she is innocent. He is drawn to her and knows that once the truth comes out about Cesar, she will most likely hate him for his part in Cesar’s downfall. But that doesn’t stop him from falling hard for a woman that is sure to break his heart.
I really loved this story, Delia and Simon are wonderful characters whose fictional love story is seamlessly woven into the real-life historical events surrounding the investigation of Hotelier Cesar Ritz, Chef Auguste Escoffier and maître d’hôtel Louis Echenard at the Savoy Hotel in London. This story is filled with secrets, a slow-burn romance, loyalty, betrayal, warm love scenes, great secondary characters, a bit of heartache, delightful dialogue, and a very sweet ending including a heartwarming epilogue. My only complaint is not knowing the final outcome of the two weddings that were both set for the same day – in the grand scheme of things of it wasn’t that big a deal – but it felt like it was going to be something major in the story and then it wasn’t – sigh. Overall, this was an excellent book and I am happy to recommend it! This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title as the books are very loosely connected. I would note that there are some triggers in this book that occurred in the past and off page, that are mention briefly, but might be upsetting to some readers and I would recommend checking out the CW on the publisher’s website.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. * ...more
Miss Hannah Simmons is a most unusual young woman who has trained to “take care of problems” as a secret operative for the Queen. She is under the tutMiss Hannah Simmons is a most unusual young woman who has trained to “take care of problems” as a secret operative for the Queen. She is under the tutelage of the widowed Duchess of Dorset, who is also her sort of guardian – as she is the widow of Hannah’s father. To most of society Hannah appears to be a paid companion to the duchess, but in reality, she is using her role to perform missions for the crown. Her current mission is to find and “take care of” the person responsible for the heinous death of a maid. It is during her investigation that she crossed paths with Robert Killian, a retired Lieutenant General and the Duke of Covington, who also happens to be investigating the same murder, but for the Prime Minister. Though they are both after the same person, they have completely different goals for the apprehension and punishment of the murderer. When they both end up at the same house party, they form an alliance of sorts, with leads to places that neither expected. But Hannah knows that the duke could never want anything more from her than an affair, after all he is a duke, and she is a nobody with a questionable past and a lot of secrets. But even knowing that doesn’t stop her from falling in love, but it will keep her from letting him know!
Robert Killian, Retired Lieutenant General and the Duke of Covington, is a decorated war hero and a spy / fixer for the Prime Minister, who carries deep, festering scars from his time as a POW in Afghanistan. Since his return to England, he has done his best to put the war behind him and focus on his estates and his role in Parliament. But occasionally the Prime Minister asks for his help and it is one of these occasions that leads him to the home of a suspect and Hannah Simmons, the protégé of the Duchess of Dorset. Hannah is unlike any woman he has ever met, she annoys him almost as much as she intrigues him and despite knowing she is all wrong for him and could never be his duchess, he can’t seem to stop thinking about her. Together they make a great team and soon realizes that she is exactly the woman he needs in his life, but convincing Hannah will not be easy and before he can even think about that, they need to stop the killer before he strikes again.
Based on the blurb, I had high hopes for this book, and to be fair, the mystery was well done, the author’s writing style is good, the pace was fine, the characters are likeable, the banter between Hannah and the Duke is witty and their chemistry was spot on, but sadly I just couldn’t get in to this book and had to force myself to finish it. Why, you ask? Well, for me it started almost immediately – the fact that the Queen of England would have her personal operative investigating the murder of a servant – who was not even the Queen’s servant – seemed preposterous, not to mention the small fact that Queen wanted the murderer “taken care of” rather than arrested and given a fair trial. Then there were the mistakes – I am a nitpicker when it comes to titles and formal address and I have read many books with mistakes – it has gotten so bad recently that I don’t even mention it anymore, because no one seems to care – but this book is the exception – this is the first book that I have read that EVERY SINGLE title for the characters was used incorrectly – and not even a little bit wrong – EPICALLY wrong. It is clear that the author doesn’t know how to address a titled person or their children. And there were other mistakes – the primary being the assumption that any member of a titled family would be tried in the House of Lords. I was disappointed, this book had the potential to be fantastic, but for me it was just OK because I couldn’t get passed the absurdities and mistakes. So, if these things don’t bother you, I am sure you will enjoy this story.
2.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. * ...more
Three years ago, Lady Winifred Barnes was jilted by the man she thought she loved a week before her wedding and her dear friend Lord Caleb Godwin offeThree years ago, Lady Winifred Barnes was jilted by the man she thought she loved a week before her wedding and her dear friend Lord Caleb Godwin offered her a marriage of convenience to save her reputation. Winifred turned him down because she wanted a true marriage and as a result Caleb left England and journeyed to America. It wasn’t until after he left and they exchanged letters that Winifred realized her feeling for him had changed, but it was too late – or was it? When his brother dies in an accident, Caleb returns to England to assume the title and Winifred is waiting for him, but Caleb seems cold and distant. At the urging of her friends in the Mayfair Literary League, Winifred decides to be bold and tries to capture Caleb’s interest, despite the fact that her family expects her to enter into a marry of convenience with a man of their choice. But when a scheme to entrap her goes wrong, she finds herself betrothed to Caleb, but the journey to HEA won’t be easy when the man she loves thinks she only wanted his title and could never love him for himself.
Lord Caleb Godwin was the younger son of the Marquess of Montfort and never dreamed he would ever inherit, so when Winifred broke his heart by refusing his proposal, he set out to start a new life in America, determined to forget her and make something of himself away from his hyper-critical mother. But now he is back and confused as to why Winifred is seeking him out, she made her feelings clear years ago, so what could she possibly want with him now. He is tempted and is trying to convince himself that he no longer cares for her, but when he overhears a plan to compromise her, he rushes to warn her, only to be trapped himself. Now he will have to marry the woman who has the power to crush his heart if he lets himself get too close to her. So, while he will marry her and give her his name, he will never ever give her his heart. At least that is the plan…
I have mixed feelings about this book, I loved the idea of it, after all who doesn’t love a Second Chance / Friends to Lovers romance? I absolutely loved Winifred and wanted her to succeed at her turn to push the For Better or For Worse agenda, but dear God Caleb was a huge PITA – more than once I wanted to slap him and ask what the heck is wrong with you? I also questioned his mental and intellectual acuity as he seemed to forget that she wrote to him practically weekly for YEARS – yet kept harping that she only seemed interested in him once he inherited the title – What? Seriously, I had a Jenny/Forrest “Are you stupid or something” moment with him more than once throughout this book. Thankfully, he finally pulled his head out of his butt and realized that she wasn’t the title-monger he was trying to convince himself she was and let his guard down enough to confess his feelings before their relationship was completely destroyed. But OMG – it was a near thing. This book is filled with second chances, friendship, learning self-worth, a slow burn romance, acceptance, very mild love scenes, a stupid hero, a wonderful heroine, great secondary characters, a few villainous relatives, and finally a HEA that I wasn’t sure was going to happen! This is the seventh book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title.
3.5 stars, rounded up.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *...more
Anne Sheffield has finally decided to take charge of her life, her father is an MP and an awful man who uses her photographic memory to store informatAnne Sheffield has finally decided to take charge of her life, her father is an MP and an awful man who uses her photographic memory to store information about his enemies, so he can blackmail them. He completely controls her life and has betrothed her to an equally awful man, the Duke of Kendal. But no more, she is done being her father’s puppet and she cannot even contemplate being married to Kendal. She carefully plans her escape from her father’s house and makes her way to the home of his archnemesis and known rake – Richard Grey. She makes a deal with Richard, he will tutor her in the ways of seduction so she can find a different man to marry and in return she will provide him with information to convince his political opponents to vote with him on a bill he is trying to get passed in Parliament. She was sure her scheme would work, but she never counted on falling for Richard or the lengths her father would go to keep her under his control.
Richard Grey is the brother of the Earl of Kent and a powerful political figure, as well as a well-known ladies’ man. When Anne comes to him in the middle of the night for help, he can’t believe that she is the same woman he has seen many times before, a woman who seems more interested in bonnets than politics, but it is clear that she is not the woman the ton thinks she is. Richard agrees to teach her how to attract a man, but never dreams he will be that man or meeting Anne will endanger his own family.
OMG – I loved this story; it ran parallel to his brother’s story – A Touch Wicked and teases readers with future stories regarding more than one secondary character. The book is well written, nicely paced, delightfully steamy and has just enough drama and angst to keep it interesting without becoming too dark. I loved Richard and Anne together and was on the edge of my seat more than once as their love story twisted and turned. This book is part of a series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title – but be warned, once you read this book you are going to want to read them all! *This book was originally published in 2018 and was re-released in 2023*
4.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *...more
While in Paris, Emma Dumont learns the depth of the trouble her younger sister Isabel was in, when she try to find her and was attacked by a thug and While in Paris, Emma Dumont learns the depth of the trouble her younger sister Isabel was in, when she try to find her and was attacked by a thug and barely escaped with her life Isabel’s apartment. Isabel was long gone and her rooms tossed, but Emma knew her sister’s hiding spot and thankfully before the ruffian showed up, she found a clue, an invitation bearing the words The Masquerade, London. Leaving Emma with no choice but to follow her. Once in London, she blackmails her father, the Duke of Southampton for a reference letter and takes a job as a lady’s maid to the sister of the Earl of Kent. Hoping to find her sister and help her out of whatever mess she has gotten herself into. But what she finds is a wonderful friend in Lady Alexandra Grey and when she finally makes her way to the Masquerade, a forbidden lover in her brother James, the Earl of Kent. But none of this stops her from her ultimate goal of finding Isabel. All too soon, her lies are found out and instead of contempt, she find love, but even Emma knows, she can bring more danger to the people she has come to love and there is no way the illegitimate daughter of a duke and sister to a wanted woman can have a happily ever after. Right?
James Grey, the Earl of Kent knows duty all too well, he practically raised his younger brother and sister, even when his parents were alive. Now he cares for the estates and is planning to marry, to ensure his sister is properly launched into society and finds a man to make her happy. He is determined to do right by Alexandra, even at the cost of his own happiness. To that end, he hires Emma to be his sister’s maid, and he is overwhelmed by his instant attraction to her and fights his improper feelings. When his brother Richard suggests that he find a lover and gives him an invitation to The Masquerade, his first instinct is to decline, but decides that maybe a lover is exactly what he needs to forget about Emma and to settle him before he begins looking for a bride. He never expected to fall so hard for his masked lover or to be so devasted when she breaks things off with him. But even that doesn’t stop his attraction to Emma and when her lies are exposed, he is at first angry, but he isn’t going to let her walk out of his life without a fight. Soon it is clear that there is much more to Emma than he first thought, but that only makes him want her more, can he convince her that they have both given enough to their families and that they deserve to be happy? Or will she break his heart all over again?
This book was so much more than I was expecting! This book has lies, secrets, danger, witty banter, amazing characters, smokin’ hot love scenes, spies, action, heartache, life or death moments, more danger, more heartache and finally a HEA that didn’t seem possible. I really enjoyed the story and hope to see these characters again! I did feel like Emma played the martyr a bit too hard and seemed determined to be unhappy, but thankfully, James was just as determined to be happy! This book is part of the Private Arrangement series, but the books can be read as standalone titles without a problem. If you like a steamy Victorian romance with a bit of intrigue and a heaping dash of danger – this is the book you have been looking for!
4.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
Hyacinth Bell has spent the better part of her adult life studying botany and has garnered a reputation as an expert in the care and cultivation of orHyacinth Bell has spent the better part of her adult life studying botany and has garnered a reputation as an expert in the care and cultivation of orchids. It is that reputation that lands her the opportunity of a lifetime, to act as temporary caretaker to an unprecedented collection of orchids at Ashthorne Hall, while the family is in India. Excited beyond measure to begin this new adventure, Hyacinth sets out for the wilds of the Cornish moors, but things are not exactly going as expected.
After being warned about ghosts and strange goings-on at the manor, Hyacinth is torn between excitement and fear, especially when she learns that the only staff in the house is Mrs. Carter, the housekeeper, a sullen woman who dashes any hopes Hyacinth had of forming a kinship. Mrs. Carter proceeds to shoot down all of Hyacinth’s plans to explore the house when she makes it clear that other than the kitchen, a couple of drawing rooms and her bedroom, the rest of the house is off-limits, especially the North Wing. Hyacinth is curious and wants to be respectful of her employer’s rules, but a glimpse of what could possibly be the ghost she was warned about, brings out the rebel in Hyacinth. Will she find the ghost, or is there something even more sinister lurking in the forbidden rooms of Ashthorne Hall? And will the secretive, yet charming and handsome caretaker, Lucas Hastings, supply answers or just add to the already mounting pile of questions?
This was a wonderful book, well-written and nicely paced with a distinctly gothic vibe. The book has a bit of everything you could want in a gothic romance, rain-swept moors, a dark, drafty manor, ghosts, mysterious lights, locked doors, unexplained items showing up in the middle of the night, a handsome yet secretive caretaker, a protective yet stern housekeeper, a sweet budding romance, shocking revelations, moments of thrilling suspense and finally a spectacular ending complete with HEA and an epilogue. I loved this book and would happily recommend it, the author clearly did her research and gives readers a heartbreaking story with a very sweet love story woven in. If you love a gothic-like vibe, with wonderful characters, kissing only love scenes and a happy ending – this book is for you!
4.5 stars, rounded up.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*...more
Upon the death of her parents, Jane Bishop and her brother Edmund were taken in by her widowed uncle Bertie and his young daughter Cecily. One summer Upon the death of her parents, Jane Bishop and her brother Edmund were taken in by her widowed uncle Bertie and his young daughter Cecily. One summer while visiting with another uncle, Jane met Eleazar “Eli” Willams and fell in love, but at only sixteen, she kept her feelings to herself. A couple of years later, Eli broke her heart when he proposed to her cousin Cecily and then again when he was lost at sea and presumed dead. Jane decided that love was not for her and set out to find a way to support herself without a husband and along with her dearest friend Della, form a Lady’s Only Gambling Club. The hope is that they make enough money to support themselves independently yet ensuring that no one is gambling so much they ruin themselves. It seems like she finally has her life on track when the impossible happens – Eli returns for the dead, with secrets and seems intent on rekindling their friendship. There is no way Jane can risk her heart again, and hardens her resolve to ignore him, but when Eli offers to help her make her dream of a gambling club come true, everything changes. But will all her dreams come true, or will Eli’s secrets break her heart all over again?
Eli made a huge mistake when he followed Jane’s cousin Cecily into the garden and it cost him his freedom, as he was honor-bound to offer for her when they were discovered kissing by her father. Their engagement was announced, and Eli joined the navy to earn a living. Three years later, he is a Lieutenant in Her Majesty’s Navy when his ship is destroyed, and he is lost at sea and presumed dead. In reality, he was saved and taken prisoner by pirates, and it took almost a year and a half to escape. He returned to England to find he had been declared dead, his savings given to his younger brother, his fiancée married to another and Jane hostile. He tries to make amends with Jane, but without disclosing the entire truth, which could put him and others in danger, she refuses to soften. But all that changes with a rain-soaked kiss, giving him hope that he will finally be with the woman he has always loved. But when has the path to HEA ever been easy?
This was a new to me author and I thought it was a good debut effort. I liked the writing style, but I did find it a bit wordy and the first two-thirds of the book dragged for me. However, the final third of the book was paced nicely and wrapped everything up quite neatly. I wasn’t a big fan of Jane until about halfway through the book when she finally fell off her high horse and pulled the stick out of her – well, you know. I loved Eli and found the majority of the secondary characters to be completely delightful – I am seriously hoping for Della’s story – she is a piece of work that is sure to lead some hapless man on a merry chase. Overall, the book was good, it was original, the idea fresh, and the story was filled with wonderful characters, secrets, betrayal, heartache, some laugh out loud moments, warm love scenes, big plans, disappointment, hope and a satisfying ending but sadly no epilogue, although, the last chapter does set them on the road to HEA, so it’s all good. This is billed as the first book in a new series, and I am definitely looking forward to the next book.
3.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
Five years ago, while her father, Charles Halliwell, a foreign office agent, was stationed in Rome, Miss Jane Halliwell, developed a tendre for Lord AFive years ago, while her father, Charles Halliwell, a foreign office agent, was stationed in Rome, Miss Jane Halliwell, developed a tendre for Lord Adrian Fielding, her father’s protégée. But Adrian had no interest in her, a fact made clear when her father committed suicide and Adrian left for a new post almost immediately, without saying a word to her. Shunned by the people that they once called friends, Jane and her mother returned to England. Her mother moved to Scotland with a distant relative and Jane took a position as a governess, only to be dismissed without a reference when her employer’s wife accused her of trying to seduce her husband. Lucky for Jane a friend of her father’s, Lord Gilford, hired her, much to the displeasure of his wife, a dear friend of her former employer. Determined to make her way, Jane endures the rancor of Lady Gilford, hoping to find a publisher for her novel and earn enough to retire from London. But her life is turned upside down once again when Lord Adrian arrives at the Gilford Home to attend a symposium being hosted by her employer. Things go even more awry when Lord Gilford is murdered, and she finds herself partnering with Lord Adrian to find the murderer.
Lord Adrian Fielding hasn’t seen Jane in years, while in Rome he was a young man sowing his oats and Jane was the daughter of his mentor and therefore off-limits, not to mention, she was an innocent and he was not looking to marry. But after the death of her father, Adrian was ordered to leave and never got the chance to say good bye or offer his condolences. When he saw her again two years ago working for his cousin, he had no idea why she was working as a governess or why she refused to speak to him, the experience didn’t sit well and he was determined to learn the reason why, but once again they parted ways with no resolution. Now that he has her in his sights again, he is going to get answers, and answers he gets. He is shocked by the trials Jane has gone through and wants to help her. When Lord Gilford is murdered, he keeps her close by asking her to play hostess to the other guests when Lady Gilford and Jane’s charge Margeret leave for their country home to mourn. Having Jane close awakens feelings in Adrian he has never experienced and when things turn even more deadly, he knows he will do anything to keep her with him always. But first they need to find a serial killer before they become the next victims!
I really enjoyed this story, it was definitely more mystery than romance, but there was a very sweet romance woven into the story. This book is a well written, nicely paced story that lets readers catch up with previous characters, enjoy some heated kisses, learn some surprising revelations, collect clues that lead to the murderer and delight in happy ending for Jane and Adrian. This is the fourth (and I think final – but don’t make me swear to it) installment of the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*...more
Lucinda “Lucy” Peterson and her siblings run their family’s apothecary shop, Lucy and her sister Juliet both trained as apothecaries and are members oLucinda “Lucy” Peterson and her siblings run their family’s apothecary shop, Lucy and her sister Juliet both trained as apothecaries and are members of the guild, but her sister’s true calling is working at a clinic in the slums, and their brother isn’t really interested in the shop, leaving Lucy to keep the shop running as well as her father’s legacy. Lucy is overworked and is fighting to keep her business going, it isn’t easy, especially in a male-controlled world, she and her sister are the only female apothecaries in London – possibly England and face more than their share of discrimination and censure, as they are willing to help women with reproductive issues. Not only does she have the “Guardians” breathing down her neck, but she has already lost one potential money-maker by trusting her lover, Duncan Rider (a rival apothecary owner) with her formula, he took her formulation and patented it, cutting her out completely. So when another formula goes missing and she is convinced that Duncan has stolen it and hires an agent from Tierney & Co to find out if Duncan is in fact the thief. She is determined not to fall in love again, but she didn’t count on being attracted to the man, or liking his young daughter so much.
Jonathan “Thorne” Thornwood, aka Jon Thorne, the Gentleman Fighter is the son of a Baron who was cut off by his family when he refused to send Sadie, his daughter away, as she is the result of Thorne’s relationship with Genevieve, a courtesan of mixed race. Thorne never planned on marrying Genny, but he won’t turn his back on his daughter, so when Genny died, Thorne cleaned up his act, stopped boxing, drinking and has sworn off women – especially beautiful women. Which is why he wants no part of Lucy’s job – as he finds her too tempting. But more than anything, he wants Sadie to have a normal childhood and is considering marriage to his landlady, but when the landlady inherits a cottage on the beach and sells the boardinghouse, he needs a new place to live, and taking Lucy’s job will include an apartment, so he will just have to control his desire – just like he has for the last seven years. He will find out who stole Lucy’s formula, return it to her and then go marry his former landlady – easy-peasy, right?
I wanted to love this story, I enjoyed the previous series and thought this series was going to pick up where that series ended and it sort of does, but this book hit different. The story starts out well, but honestly, I felt like both Lucy and Thorne were emotionally unavailable and had no chemistry – lust, yes, but no true connection and no epilogue. Both had been done wrong by their lovers, and both had plans to marry other people, even while they shared a physical relationship – that is a romance killer for me. Then there was the fact that for a smart woman, Lucy was pretty stupid, she was duped by a nitwit after having an affair and even after that, would have married him. Then there is the fact that the thief gets off scot-free – UGH! I am not sure where this series is going, this book focuses on women’s reproductive rights, discrimination and touches on racial and class discrimination, making the book feel more like historical women’s fiction with sex, rather than historical romance (IMO). The writing is great, the book is paced well and the characters were likable, and I am sure a lot of readers will enjoy this book, but it just wasn’t what I was hoping for in a spinoff series.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
Almost a year ago, Becca Hamilton died in a boating accident off the coast of Chesire, leaving behind her conniving uncle and her cruel betrothed, EdwAlmost a year ago, Becca Hamilton died in a boating accident off the coast of Chesire, leaving behind her conniving uncle and her cruel betrothed, Edwin, heir to the Earl of Fanthorpe, and on the same day, widow Rebecca Hatch was born, and escaped to London, where she moved in with the best friend of Becca’s late mother. Rebecca forged a new life for herself, joining the Mayfair Literary League and trying to put her past to rest. But when she crosses paths with Nathaniel Roth, a solicitor from Chesire in the employ of the Earl of Fanthorpe, her new life is threatened. Secretly, she always admired him and even held a tendre for him, but she can’t risk him discovering the truth. But when she learns her uncle has died and that she has a large inheritance from her father, she has to trust someone with her secrets, can that someone be Nathaniel, or will his allegiance be to the Earl?
Nathaniel Roth is the son of a wine merchant and he believed he was destined for the same, but one day the Earl of Fanthorpe came into their shop and took an interest in Nathaniel, paid for him to go to school, and even helped him set up his law practice, in exchange Nathaniel has acted as his solicitor in several matters, some that he found questionable, but Nathaniel’s loyalty is absolute, but when will his debt to the man be repaid? When by chance he sees a woman whom he is almost certain is Becca Hamilton, but is calling herself Rebecca Hatch. The closer he gets to her, the more his loyalty is challenged. Will his heart overrule his head or will a misplaced loyalty cost him the love of a lifetime?
This was a well-written, nicely-paced intriguing story with wonderful characters that you can’t help rooting for. This is by far my favorite story (so far) in the series, I loved Nathaniel & Rebecca, they are truly a wonderful couple and one I won’t soon forget. The book is filled with secrets, insecurities, lies, friends, cameos from previous characters, loyalty, warmish love scenes, betrayal, heartache, and finally a well-earned HEA completely with a very sweet epilogue. This is the sixth book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title. I loved this book and would happily recommend it to my fellow HR readers.
4.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*...more
American Leonora “Nora” Garrison has come to London with her brother Sam and her mother, to find investors for their machine factory. And it is in LonAmerican Leonora “Nora” Garrison has come to London with her brother Sam and her mother, to find investors for their machine factory. And it is in London that she learns about the Elysium, a private club for ladies. She goes to the club and seeks to fill a secret desire; to be kissed. Nervous, she overindulges in absinthe and is quite tipsy when a man joins her in the private room. They share an amazing kiss and then she passes out, waking much later and mortified by her actions. But that is nothing compared to the mortification of coming face to face with her mystery lover at a dinner with potential investors! Despite the awkwardness, Nora is drawn to John Castleton, Viscount Wyeth, or Rook to his fellow Chessmen, not only is he handsome, but he takes a real interest in Nora, making her feel intelligent and beautiful. They know there is no future for them, nor does she want one, but they can’t seem to stay away from each other, which is why they are found in a compromising situation and find themselves betrothed. While Nora has come to love Rook, she refuses to enter a marriage with a man who doesn’t love her back. But is her plan to save them actually going to save them from heartbreak or has that ship already sailed?
As part of an elite group of investors known as the Chessmen, John “Rook” Castleon, Viscount Wyeth has made a fortune, enabling him to live a life independent of his father the Earl of Elverton. The earl is a libertine whose exploits, mistresses, insatiable lust, and illegitimate children are widely known, and he is the last person Rook would ever want to emulate. To that end, he has devoted his life to being above reproach, so it is completely out of character for him to kiss a stranger in a club devoted to women, but that is exactly how he met Nora. He had gone to the club to see the owner, his brother Aiden Trewlove (one of his father’s many by-blows), and is talked into kissing her. He is intrigued by her the minute he meets her and is desperate to learn who she is, especially when she falls asleep during their kiss. Nora is unlike any woman he has ever known and when they end up betrothed, he isn’t as upset as he should be, considering he never planned to marry. So when Nora sets her plan in motion to free him from their forced engagement, he should be happy, right?
This was a well-written, engaging read with wonderful characters and lots of emotion. The book is filled with emotion, Trewlove cameos, really awful parents, a STEM heroine, secret trysts, a “technically virgin” hero who has been hurt before, steamy love scenes, a bit of heartache, some betrayal, and finally a HEA complete with an epilogue. I liked this story, but it is not the ending I was expecting for the series as I was hoping for a bit more Chessmen involvement, especially in the epilogue. This is the third and final book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title as there isn’t any ongoing plot tying the books together, however, it is worth mentioning that this book is also loosely connected to the Sins for All Season series – so if you read that series you will see lots of familiar faces in this book! Overall this was a very good read and I wonder if the next series will pick up where this book ended (I hope so! Fingers crossed!) If you enjoy intelligent heroines, heroes trying to atone for the sins of their fathers, steamy love scenes, and happy endings, then I am happy to recommend this book to you!
4 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
John Malcolm Malvern, the Earl of Sedrich needs a rich bride to save his indebted estate which is sinking further into debt each day thanks to his wasJohn Malcolm Malvern, the Earl of Sedrich needs a rich bride to save his indebted estate which is sinking further into debt each day thanks to his wastrel brother James, but so far he has had no luck. Malcolm was once in love and had his heart crushed, leaving him wary of deeper emotions, so when he meets Anne Merritt, a refreshing young woman at a ball, he is surprised at his initial reaction to her, he finds himself drawn to her, something that hasn’t happened in a very long time. He chats with her and is completely charmed, so much so, that he wonders if she could be the bride he has been looking for. Even when he learns that she is penniless, he can’t seem to walk away, and when his situation changes and his need for a bride becomes urgent, it seems like he may be able to have the bride of his choice after all. But when his brother shows up with his own bride in tow, things get heated and his budding relationship with Anne is put into jeopardy.
Miss Anne Merritt, the penniless ward of Lord Armitage, had no expectations that this ball would be different from any other, but she was wrong, she meets a handsome stranger and gives him advice on finding a bride. Later he charms her German governess/companion, they share a dance and then cigarette before parting ways. Anne wishes she could be the bride he is looking for, but not only is she penniless, has no dowry and she owes her guardian quite a bit of money, as he paid her father’s debts when he died. She longs for a family but has accepted that she will probably never marry, so when her uncle announces that he has found her a husband, she is shocked and dismayed when she learns that her betrothed is old enough to be her grandfather and has already buried four wives. She rebels, but it does nothing but anger her guardian and gets her locked in her room to await her betrothed. But when her guardian sends her to meet her groom, she is shocked to be delivered to Malcolm. Will this be the start of the life she has always wanted or will it end in heartache?
This was a very good debut novel by a new to me author. The story is interesting and while the plot is not a new one, the author does give her readers a fresh take on the “marriage of convenience” trope. The book features a strong, somewhat outspoken heroine, a once-bitten, twice-shy hero, secret identities, deception, good friends, evil villains, an Aunt who is calling the shots, warmish love scenes, a few triggers, a few tears, a duel, and finally a well deserved HEA complete with an epilogue. This was a good book for a debut novel and the writing does show promise, but I did feel like there was a lot going on and at times it became a bit too much. It also tended to get somewhat wordy, but I am sure as this author continues to write, she will find her stride and only get better. I was impressed by the author’s notes where she details her research and admits where she took a bit of creative license. Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to my fellow HR readers, but would suggest that you check out the author’s content warning as the story does contain a few scenes that might be troubling/upsetting to some readers.
3.5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
Myrtle Allen, sister of Viscount Leybourne, is many things; a lover of cake and pretty gowns, a loving Aunt, a brilliant mathematician, and an heiressMyrtle Allen, sister of Viscount Leybourne, is many things; a lover of cake and pretty gowns, a loving Aunt, a brilliant mathematician, and an heiress, but subtle she is not. So when she insults a suitor during a ball being hosted by her brother Richard, he has had enough and gives her an ultimatum, either find a husband or do something to – before he can finish, his tirade is cut off midsentence by a scream, sending them both to find the source. The source is Richard’s very drunk wife who was hitting on and being rejected by the artist Richard hired to paint her portrait. Richard quickly defuses the situation and demands the artist leave. Giving Myrtle the opening she needs to “do something”. She plans to go to London and start an investment consulting business for women. She plans to use her knowledge of investments and accounting to help women manage their money wisely, thus giving them access to financial independence, something she herself longs for. She convinces the artist, Simeon Jones to take her with him when he leaves, promising to pay him triple what her brother had promised him for the portrait. She is surprised to discover that Simeon is not just another wastrel, he is talented, smart, and dedicated to his craft, and he is also unbelievably handsome, charming, as well as extremely kind. She is drawn to him but knows they have no future, so with a kiss, she prepares to part forever, but a twist of fate brings them back together and pretending to be betrothed! The more time they are together, the more she wants what she can never have, or can she?
Simeon Jones is one of the infamous Bastard Five, a group of men who met as children at the Devenaugh Home for Destitute Boys, each of whom where adopted but never lost touch, meeting together as often as possible for their book club. Simeon is known as charming, talented, and a bit of a rake, his lovers are legion, and his art is amazing but he has a secret, unlike his fellow bastards was not taken in by a well-to-do family – Simeon barely keeps his head above water, especially since he has a soft-heart and often gives away his last shilling to help someone else. Which is exactly why he was at the viscount’s estate painting a portrait of his handsy wife. He has discovered his late adopted mother had a child that she gave to her sister to raise, but now the sister has passed and the Reverend of their village has sought out Simeon to take over the care of the now orphaned child. He is wondering what he can do when Myrtle demands he take her with him to London. He is not sure it is a good idea, and he is a bit overwhelmed by her, but the more time spent with her, the more he wants, and so when her brother agrees to pay him an incredible sum to pretend to be betrothed to Myrtle and help her guide her niece through her debut, he can’t say no. Soon he finds himself in love with Myrtle but knows it is hopeless, he can’t ask her to sacrifice her dreams or her fortune to marry him, or can he?
This was a well-written story of two people who at first glance appear to be complete opposites, but who have more in common than anyone could have imagined. They form a friendship, which blossoms into more than they agreed to, causing each of them to deny their true feelings, to spare the other any discomfort. The book has witty banter, a lot of cake, surprises, inspiration, debutantes, a cute dog, an annoying brother, a fake betrothal, a public jilting, steamyish love scenes, a few tears, and finally a HEA that didn’t seem possible as well as a very sweet epilogue. I liked this book, but I didn’t really feel the romance, I loved both Simeon and Myrtle individually, but together they seemed to be missing the necessary “spark”. I can’t put my finger on what it was exactly, maybe it was her social ineptitude or maybe it was the constant reminders of how many times he had been in love before, but whatever it was, it just didn’t click for me. I enjoyed the story and was happy that they found a way to be together, but I wasn’t wowed. This is the third book in the series but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problems. I like this series and would absolutely recommend it to my fellow HR readers and will be looking forward to Fenton’s book.
3.5 stars rounded up.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.* ...more
Emily Leverton is not your typical governess, she is not a genteel lady fallen on hard times, no, she is a rough and tumble girl who was raised on theEmily Leverton is not your typical governess, she is not a genteel lady fallen on hard times, no, she is a rough and tumble girl who was raised on the streets. But she was determined to have a better life and escaped the streets as soon as she was able. She knows she is a terrible governess, but she does her best and is shocked when she is summoned to meet the owner of the most prestigious governess agency in England – Perdita’s Governess Agency. She meets with the “Dove” and is offered a unique opportunity, she will be trained as a governess and spy. The Dove wants information on the elite upper classes who often get away with heinous crimes, she wants to make sure they pay for their crimes like anyone else, and having a spy in the household to gather information is invaluable. Emily agrees and hopes by helping the Dove bring down corrupt members of the ton she will be making amends for the sins of her past. While working for the Earl of Eastmoreland’s family she is called upon to deliver a forgotten fan to Lady Minnie, the earl’s eldest daughter at the ball she was attending. It is there that she spies a man being besieged by a marriage-minded mama and her daughters, when she catches his eye, she spontaneously blows him a kiss before exiting the ballroom, never expecting to see him again. But to her complete shock, he follows her and makes his interest known. Emily would love nothing more than to accept his attentions, but she has secrets; big secrets that would ruin them both. She tries to brush him off, but when she learns that he is working on a case for the police, she changes her mind and decides that helping him helps her too. She just needs to remember to keep her distance and guard her heart from wanting what she can never have.
Zachariah “Zach” Denholm was born and raised in Whitechapel as the son of a butcher. He made his fortune through smart investments and is now one of the richest men in London. Never one to laze about, Zach works as a Detective Constable for the Metropolitan Police and is currently working on a case involving the brutal murders of prostitutes in the Bethnal Green slums. The press has dubbed the killer the “Evangelist” and mentions Zach’s participation in the case, making him even more popular in the ton – which is the last thing he wants. When a cheeky governess blows him a kiss, he is intrigued and when he meets her, he is snared. He knows she is not what she pretends to be and that just makes him want her more. The more time they spend together, the harder he falls, and though she denies it, he is sure she is falling too. But Emily is not like any woman he has ever known and winning her will not be easy but he is sure the extra effort will be worth it. But when her big secret is revealed, Zach feels a moment of doubt, and that is all Emily needs to walk out of his life. Will he realize his mistake before it's too late or has he lost her forever?
OMG, OMG, OMG – I LOVED this book! I am so impressed by this new-to-me author, I love her writing style and the fact that she nailed the titles and proper address was just a surprise bonus for me. Emily and Zach are wonderful characters and so easy to like, and even though there is technically adultery in the book – I didn’t even care - I KNOW, I can hardly believe it myself, but the way the author handled it was perfect and it was a complete non-issue for me. The book has so much going on but it never felt “busy”, it was close to perfect and definitely a keeper. The book has secrets, murder, witty banter, lots of emotion, great secondary characters, more than one villain, a mysterious benefactor, steamy love scenes, a bit of heartache, a couple of nail-biter scenes, a few tears, and finally a HEA complete with an epilogue. I cannot wait for the next book and I think I might actually read her upcoming contemporary paranormal romance that is coming out this fall – If you know anything about me and the books I read, you will be floored by that statement – Needless to say, I highly recommend this title, it is the first book in a new series and in my opinion, is a must-read!
5 stars
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*...more
Charlotte Duvall finished her medical school training in Pennsylvania and had secured a job at St. Anne’s Women and Children’s Clinic in New York, wheCharlotte Duvall finished her medical school training in Pennsylvania and had secured a job at St. Anne’s Women and Children’s Clinic in New York, when she received an urgent, yet cryptic letter from her father, begging her to return to England. The letter was regarding the death of her mother and warned of danger and long-kept secrets and implied that her mother, Katerine Duvall’s death was not an accident, he also claimed he had proof and wanted her help. She had put in for a leave of absence from her job to return to England to see him and was making travel arrangements when she got word from her eldest brother that their father was ill and his prognosis was not promising. Sadly, he passed before she arrived home, leaving her to figure out what he meant in his letter. At her father’s funeral she is reunited with her cousins Amelie and Eva, as well as their husbands and her dear friend Johnathan “John” Ellis, director of the Metropolitan Police’s Criminal Investigation Department (the only other unmarried person in their circle of friends). She tells them of her father’s letter and they promise to help her. She is grateful and decides to stay in England, she even finds work at a hospital for the underprivileged. Things seem to be going well, but almost as soon as she starts investigating, it becomes clear that her father was not wrong about the danger. She is attacked and warned to return to America, but her attacker underestimates Charlotte and her friends, especially John.
John is the second son of the Earl of Ashby and is happy working for the Metropolitan Police Force, despite his family’s dismay. He has worked hard and achieved success on his merit, not his family’s name. When Charlotte returns, John realizes how much he missed her and how much deeper his feelings go beyond friendship. He isn’t sure if Charlotte feels the same, and knows that she has just begun her career, one that she would most likely have to give up if she married, so he plans to keep his feelings to himself and maintain his distance. But when Charlotte is attacked, nothing will stop him from protecting her and keeping her close. Working together, along with their friends and his colleague, security professional, Mr. Dirk, they will find the truth about Katherine’s death. But the closer they get, the more deadly their quest becomes, will they find the answers they seek, or will their unknown foe continue to elude them?
This was a great historical romantic mystery, I loved it and felt that the author struck the perfect balance between romance and mystery, both getting equal consideration. Charlotte and John have a wonderful chemistry and it is clear from the start that they are perfect for each other and I couldn’t help but root for their HEA. The story is centered around the mysterious death of Charlotte’s mother and will have readers second-guessing themselves as to who is the actual villain, it is a story filled with secrets, forbidden love, hatred, jealousy, danger, murder, prejudices, great friends, true love, kisses and finally revelations, answers, and closure, leading to a very satisfying HEA ending. This is the third book in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone title, I had not read the first two books and had no problem understanding the character interactions, but now I want to read the first two books (there goes the “I won’t buy any more books until I read the ones I already have” New Year’s resolution – LOL) I am happy to recommend this title and will be looking forward to reading the other books in the series, and hoping for a book for Dirk!!!
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*...more
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