Raven
Raven by Adele Clee, Gentlemen of the Order Book 2
This is a second chance story where the hero and heroine loved one another, lost each other, and reconnect with the hope of finding what they had years before.
Finlay Cole is known as the Raven and works as an enquiry officer for the Gentlemen of the Order with his friends, who have stories of their own. Seven years ago Finlay was reported killed in Belgium but was a prisoner for nine months. When he returned to England, he discovered the woman he loved, Sophia, had married Lord Adair and felt betrayed, thinking she married for position and wealth. He married Hannah who knew he loved another. Both spouses have died three years ago but they have rarely spoken to each other, both nursing heartache.
Backstories give depth to a character, and Clee is an expert at weaving the past with the present and giving each character something to overcome before they can be happy.
The story begins with Finlay being ordered to go to the remote home of Sophia and help her with a problem with her sister, Jessica. He is reluctant to go but follows orders. Sophia is hiding Jessica because she suffered a head injury falling down the stairs after discovering her fiance, Archer, in bed with the maid, Maud. Dr. Goodwin has been treating her for the past seven years, and she has been getting worse. Also, Sophia’s stepson has been causing problems.
Layering problems and storylines adds dimension to a story, especially a romance, which often is one dimensional. Add a mystery to a romance or a romance to a mystery to give the reader additional satisfaction.
Clee weaves several different storylines throughout the tale, putting layer upon layer. Among the mystery and intrigue is the love story between Finlay and Sophia. They alternate POV and reveal first their lusts, their regrets, and wishes to be together. The scenes are passionate and sensual.
She also keeps several surprises until the end during the final confrontation for the truth. As in the other stories, Finlay’s friends in the Order help to solve the crime and apprehend the bad guys.
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