Against the Wind

Agents of the Crown #2

by Regan Walker

“A fabulous tale with exciting twists and turns reflecting a little known event in England's history and, at its heart, a wonderful love story.” — SHIRLEE BUSBEE, NY Times Bestselling author Can one night of passion lead to love? Sir Martin Powell, a spy for the Crown in France, returns to London, thinking to indulge in a night in London’s most exclusive bordello. But the next morning the auburn-haired beauty he knows only as “Kit” has disappeared. Their one night of passion has him searching for her in all of London. Certain she has killed her lecherous brother-in-law, Katherine, Lady Egerton hides away as a governess to two young women, all the while thinking of the stranger she left behind. Once Sir Martin finds Kit, he will steal her away to the English Midlands and into the rising winds of revolution.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Chick Lit, Historical Fiction, Historical

310 pages, Paperback

First published March 22, 2020

About the author

Signup for Regan's Newsletter and get all the news, new releases and deals... and you might win a book! http://www.reganwalkerauthor.com/

Award-winning, bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romantic historical fiction. Also an avid reader/reviewer of historical love stories set in the 19th century or earlier. Author website: www.reganwalkerauthor.com. Historical Romance Review blog: reganromancereview.blogspot.com.

My stories will sweep you away, I promise. They are historically authentic with real historical figures. I do hundreds of hours of research for each book.

Praise for THE AGENTS OF THE CROWN:

“Ms. Walker has the rare ability to make you forget you are reading a book…the characters become real, the modern world fades away and all that is left is the intrigue, drama and romance.” ~ Straight from the Library

RACING WITH THE WIND: "... a superb historical romance, filled with passion, political intrigue, and a worthy hero and heroine!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Cynthia Wright

AGAINST THE WIND: "A fabulous tale with exciting twists and turns reflecting a little known event in England's history and, at its heart, a wonderful love story." ~ NY Times Bestselling author Shirlee Busbee

WIND RAVEN: “A salty, sweeping, evocative tale of romance on the high seas—and a good old-fashioned love story that will keep you up far, far past your bedtime. So, reach for the coffee. Brava for Regan Walker!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Danelle Harmon

THE MEDIEVAL WARRIORS series:

“This series captures the Medieval era perfectly, creating the true sensation of traveling back in time to experience epic, riveting love stories that ignite the imagination. Beautifully written, perfectly paced and action-packed with passionate love affairs... What more can you ask?” ~ The Book Review

THE DONET TRILOGY:

“The Donet Trilogy has everything you’d ever want in historical romance. From spies, smugglers and pirates to masked balls and opulent palaces—what more could you ask for? Regan has created an immersive world packed with well-researched historical detail and a cast of characters that you really grow to love.” – Reading in Wellies

Reviews

[Deniz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Regan walkers Racing with the Wind and this book is even better!
Reagan Walker is a new author for me and I have to say that I absolutely loved her books.
This book had everything in a Regency I could want. the characters real and so intriguing.
Regan walker creates a fab. historic romance, spy thriller and great sexual heat to make it steamy. It has history , mystery and good sexual tension.
I really couldn't put it down, it was a page turner for me
I highly recommend this book and others in the series ...
I cannot wait to read the third book in Regan Walker's Agents of the Crown trilogy!

[Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

Read:6/14/20
Bad!!! I couldn't wait for it to end.

[Frankie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to give this more stars, if I could!
This is book two in the wonderful ‘Agents of the Crown’ series and this time we meet second son; Martin Powell. I always start one of Walker’s stories knowing that; yes, I am going to be in for another edge of your seat romp and as always, I wasn’t disappointed. Now I do love a series where you get drawn further and further into the world your reading with every book, you have well-loved character’s crossing over from one book to another and you start to get to know them as they though you are apart of their family and this is what Walker is brilliant at. She takes you on journey and introduces you to character’s that from the moment you meet them you are fixated on them, and you want to know what happens to them as you go through the series.

I really love this story, it’s all about second chances and moving one and learning how to love again, Kit and Martin are such a cute and hugely likable couple and their getting to know and trust each other is the leading story but I love the background storyline of the uprising in the north, about how ordinary working class people are suffering from what is going on in the country at the time Walker has portrayed all this angst perfectly. Another thing I really like about this is how easily Walker has entwined actual historic figures – such as the Duke of Devonshire – or Hart to his friends (whose family still own Chatsworth House in Derbyshire to this day) with her wonderfully crafted character’s and they seamlessly fit together. The story builds up fast and it all comes to a climatic and unexpected ending, that has you at the edge of your seat.

This is just fabulous, I really cannot say enough good things about Against the Wind as with all of Walker’s work it is flawless.

[Adria's Musings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews

Against the Wind begins with three deaths all in the space of one chapter. Each death shapes the lead characters, Martin and Katherine, breaking them down, only to build them up even better than before. The journey that both characters take is dangerous, passionate and highly entertaining!

Sir Martin Powell has come home to England after spending many years as a spy in France. His wife and unborn child were accidentally shot and killed outside a cafe years before and their deaths have haunted him since. A night in an exclusive brothel brings him face to face with with Katherine, Lady Egerton. Believing her to be one of the "girls," they spend one very passionate night together, but before Martin can examine his powerful response to "Kit," she disappears. He quickly learns that she is in fact, a gently-bred young widow. He sets out to find her but along the way, Martin must complete one more assignment for his government.

As the second book in the Agents of the Crown trilogy, Against the Wind could easily have slipped into a slump but it doesn't, in fact, it is more passionate and more dangerous than it's predecessor. Author Regan Walker's dedication to her characters' stories keeps readers entertained from the very first paragraph, to the very last page. Her attention to detail assures that each scene is described vividly and easily creates images in readers' minds. Aside from the romance that begins to develop between Martin and Kit, there are a few scenes with Hugh and Mary, the hero and heroine from Racing with the Wind and of course, a little humor along the way.

Against the Wind keeps up a brisk pace, it's neither too slow nor too fast, which doesn't bore readers. It's also obvious that there was quite a bit of research involved and it gives the story more credibility while still maintaining the romance novel feel. And whether it's the progression of Martin and Kit's relationship or a villain to be captured, there is always something interesting and entertaining happening.

I enjoyed Against the Wind, more so than Racing with the Wind, Martin and Kit were fascinating characters and a romantic couple. The added spy games were thoroughly enjoyable as I have a soft spot for historical romances with spies.I cannot wait to read the third book in Regan Walker's Agents of the Crown trilogy. If you are looking for a romance with an eye for detail, a passionate love story and danger lurking at every corner, I suggest you pick up Against the Wind by Regan Walker.

[Lily (Night Owl Book Cafe) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wild and emotional ride! Regan Walker really knows how to weave and tell a story.

The moment I cracked open the book and started reading it, Against The Wind and Walker did not hold back any punches. It gripped me emotionally from the start and I had a hard time putting it down. Found myself simply eating up the rest of the pages.

I have to admit, I did not expect the book to start the way it did but it laid out the foundation for the rest of the book. It was suppose to capture my interest and it did it's job.

Martin Powell is finally back after spying against Napoleon for the Crown. A broken man who finds himself in London's most exclusive bordello in hopes for some normal night of sinful indulgence with a woman.

Katherine is on the run in hopes of finding a safe place to hide in fear that she had killed her brother-in-law who tried to get his hands on her and take advantage of her shortly after her sister's death. She finds herself running to her old nanny who happens to own the bordello and after a night of losing herself in her passion when Martin stumbles into her room by mistake.

Martin cannot get the auburn-haired beauty out of his mind and the need to find her and save her grows painful by the second, Not too mention that he cannot forget the night they have spent together and Martin want's to make the beauty his mistress.

Wonderfully written, kind of beautiful in it's descriptive writing. I adored Katherine and her fiery spirit. Both her and Martin are just two very broken people that end up getting thrown together by mistake. As danger follows his 'kitten', Martin does everything in his power to keep her safe and in hopes that history won't repeat itself.

Walker does a wonderful job providing us with a story that hold memorable characters that are very believable with the time period. The story itself takes you straight into action and has you holding in for the ride. I am looking forward to revisiting the other books written by Regan Walker, and her future works alike!

**I received a copy of this book from the tour host and author in exchange of an honest review.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic!

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second book in the series, Regan Walker has moved us forward a year: Napoleon has been banished to Corsica, and England is experiencing economic difficulties. The introduction of mechanization in the textile industry has resulted in several uprisings, the Luddite riots. All trusted agents are being recruited to see if there are members in the House of Lords and the Cabinet, or advisors to the King who may be influencing the tone of the common folk to encourage destruction, devastation and rioting.

Again, Walker is presenting two characters with uncertain futures and past tales of woe who will encounter one another and are instantly attracted. Martin, who was living and spying for the Crown for years in Paris, after losing his wife and unborn child in an unwarranted attack on the Paris streets, has decided to retire, return to England and join his father’s firm as the captain of a merchant sailing ship. Kit is a poor widow, but born to title of Lady. Having just nursed her sister until her death, she was left to the ‘mercy’ of her husband, a cruel and vengeful man, that she ran away from with only the clothes on her back.

The meeting of Kit and Martin is unusual and highly erotic, and their subsequent obsession with one another is interesting to read, and cleverly presented. Fortunately, Martin is again able to rescue Kit from dire circumstance, only to introduce her to a new friend and protector, Mary, Marchioness of Ormond. This name will be familiar to readers of the series, for Mary and Hugh are friends of Martin, and do play a part in this story as well.

With a return of characters from the first, the depth of character and emotions defined for Martin and Kit, and the political and social intrigues so common in society of the day, Regan Walker has created another must read romance. The history is impeccable, mixing real and imagined and setting it all properly in time and place. All of the customs peculiar to the time and court are beautifully and accurately detailed, defined and described. A story that pleases on many levels: historically, politically, and romantically.

I received an ARC copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

While set in the Regency period, what distinguishes this book is the fact that it shows the not so splendorous aftermath of the Napoleonic wars, the poverty and hard life of ordinary people.

Read full review in the 2013 July/August double issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Regan Walker has ways of gifting the romance reader with an intense look at somewhat little known historic events so that the reader feels involved and leaves the story with greater understanding. I was especially caught up in the historic events surrounding the 1817 Pentrich Rebellion of this second book in the Agents of the Crown series. The political intrigue kept the story moving at a good pace. The romance in the story includes deception, adventure, villainous in-law, and, of course, true sacrificial love. The author did a fine job of weaving the two facets of the story together. Both hero and heroine lacked a bit of trust in one another, but that actually fit the intrigue story well. I recommend this book to romance readers who love a historical event based spy story set in real places with real historical people, and talented, clever and brave ladies, as well as dashing and complex men.

[Karen Llanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan wrote another that kept me reading. I learned something I wasnt aware of in Englands history. Also before I was half way through the book I was in love with Martin. Being that I'm fascinated with all thats France. I loved his use of the french language.

[Tina Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lusty and Loving Intrigue

Against the Wind, the second book in Regan Walker’s Agents of the Crown Trilogy, is a passionate love story, in the best tradition of Regency romances! Set in 1817, Martin Powell returns to England after years spying in France, to complete one last mission. On his return, he visits a high class brothel, where he falls under the spell of a courtesan, whom he calls ‘Kitten’. After a passionate night of lovemaking, he finds that Kit has vanished. Kit is no courtesan, but Lady Egerton, who is fleeing a crime scene where she believes that she has killed her evil brother-in-law. Martin resolves to find her and make her his.

Kit sought refuge at Willow House, an establishment ran by her former governess, after experiencing some terrible events. Her beloved sister Anne was not even in the grave before her brother-in-law forced himself on her and she was compelled to retaliate. Ashamed at what took place at Willow House, between her and the mysterious gentleman, she flees, taking employment launching two girls on their first season. However, Martin finds Kit, rescuing her from the violent Earl Rutledge, who is seeking revenge. Attracted to Kit and wishing to protect her Martin offers marriage, although he fears that his clandestine activities could endanger her.

The England that Martin has returned to has changed. The introduction of machinery threatens workers’ livelihoods and poor harvests and an economic recession have led to discontent, riots and marches. The couple travel to the Midlands, where Martin goes undercover, posing as a Frenchman with reformist tendencies. His task is to infiltrate the rebels to ascertain the extent their activities are stirred up by agents provocateurs, employed by those in government who wish to justify further repressive legislation. However, as Kit innocently strolls through the countryside with her sketch book, is she safe from the lust of a vengeful man or the powder keg of social unrest which could explode any moment? Also can she trust her husband who will not divulge his secrets and the reason for his absences?

I adored Martin, who has been knighted for his services to the crown. He is brave, intelligent and resourceful and devoted to Kit. I also liked the fact that he is a very passionate individual, who cannot keep his hands off his new wife. He is however, tortured by tragic events in his past, prompting him to keep the truth about his true activities a secret from Kit , creating danger and tension in the plot and their relationship.

Kit is the type of heroine I love to root for. She has experienced much sadness and on the death of her father, she and her sister were both left destitute due to his gambling debts. Kit was married off to a much older man, who died soon after their marriage, leaving her no option but to live with her sister and her husband, the sadistic Earl Rutledge, who lusts after her. She is tired of being controlled by others, as she is a strong and independent individual by nature, who also empathises with the plight of others. However, she cannot resist losing her heart to Martin! Indeed, I loved the tender yet passionate lovemaking between the couple. The scene where they come together for the first time is very sensual and the author maintains this level of intensity in their relationship, with numerous romantic encounters. The love story is artfully balanced with the danger and intrigue in the plot.

The detail within the narrative shows that once again Regan Walker has carried out a great deal of research in crafting this novel. The author’s descriptions of the living and working conditions of the inhabitants of rural Derbyshire, where much of the plot takes place, are credible, and her characters well drawn. I enjoyed meeting the real historical figures who were included in the tale and also reacquainting myself with Hugh and Mary, the couple from the first book Racing with the Wind. We are also introduced to Nick, Martin’s older brother, the hero of Wind Raven, the final book in the trilogy, whose book I am eagerly awaiting.

In reading this novel, I feel that I not only enjoyed a great romantic read but also learned much about the social and economic conditions and the political machinations of the time. I recommend it to those who enjoy historical romance with elements of intrigue and suspense.

This book was given to me by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

When we think of the Regency, we think of ballrooms, the haut ton, and young ladies worrying about whether or not they will be considered diamonds of the first water or whether they will be wallflowers.

We don’t consider that the Regency was also the period of the Napoleonic Wars. Or that after the end of the Wars, in 1815, a lot of veterans returned from the continent to find that there were no jobs. Sound familiar?

Also the Regency saw the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution. In addition to the returning war veterans, many textile workers were put out of work by machines. Poverty was widespread, and politicians feared a revolt of the masses in England, similar to the French Revolution.

The government decided to find out who the traitors might be by inciting them. Agents provocateurs were sent out to foment rebellion, so that the rebels could be spied upon and arrested.

This is the backdrop for Against the Wind. Sir Martin Powell is an English agent with a French background, formerly employed by the Prince Regent as a spy against Napoleon. He’s asked to perform one last service for his Prince. He’s asked to spy on those agents provocateurs, to see just how far the government is willing to go to incite rebellion.

Prinny’s ministers are planning to use the revolt as an excuse to enact even harsher laws than the ones already in place.

Martin takes this one last assignment, but before he does, he gets married. Again. And again he has a hostage to fortune.

While he was a spy in France, he had a wife he loved. Who was killed. And Martin never knew whether she was murdered by a random footpad, or whether the shot was meant for him.

This time, he marries to protect the woman from an evil bastard who is chasing her. But because he will not tell his second wife any of his secrets, he is no more able to protect her, or give her the knowledge to protect herself, than he was his first wife.

Martin’s nightmares come true. Again. But this time he might have a second chance.

Escape Rating B: The history behind this romance is very well done. The period of the early Industrial Revolution that is covered by this story was the first time that the word “Luddite” was used, and doesn’t that still have resonance? The Luddites, named after Samuel Ludd, were revolting against the use of machines to replace textile workers.

The economic plight of the Midlands village is well-drawn and so heart-breaking. It’s easy to see why people took up arms, especially when you compare their lives to the popular Regency romance. If this was how most people lived, then the balls at Almack’s seem excessively wasteful in comparison.

About the romance, Martin and Kit start off with a sexual encounter, then build an emotional relationship. They have chemistry from the beginning, but Kit wants to have a real relationship with her new husband, even if it’s just friendship and mutual respect.

There were one too many problems that needed to be tied up at the end. Kit is willing to marry Martin because her evil brother-in-law is stalking her. (Her sister is dead, he’s evil but not planning on a harem). Martin and Kit also have the problem that Martin is spying on the government agents but keeping her in the dark about it, and she doesn’t know if he’s part of the rebellion, or what he might be doing. The political plotting and counterplotting was fascinating, and highlighted Kit's and Martin's need to develop more trust in each other. A lot of their interpersonal problems and a big part of the plot hinge on them not trusting each other with their secrets. Admittedly, Martin's spying for the government is a pretty huge secret!

And then there's the evil brother-in-law swooping in. He added a melodramatic element to the conflict that felt like "one cook too many" to the pot. I was very glad to see him get his totally just desserts, but his part in the drama felt unnecessary. Martin's espionage and the government drama was plenty of meat for this story!

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Against the Wind begins with heart breaking tragedy for Sir Martin Powell. Seems his enemies were closer that he imagined and he suffers a terrible loss while in France working for the Crown as a spy. Once he returns a few years later to England at the end of his service, he finds out that there is one more mission the Prince needs his help with. There are murmurs of a rebellion in the Midlands, and the Prince himself sends word that Martin is to look into what’s going on and report back. So, staying with the Ormonds, whom we meet in Racing with the Wind, he decides on a night out in London at an exclusive bordello before he heads to the Midlands. Who knew that choosing the wrong door at the right place would have such a profound effect on his life?

Lady Katherine “Kit” Egerton has seen tragedy of her own. He much older husband died not long after their marriage and her sister, Anne, married a cruel man, the Earl of Rutledge. To complicate things, Anne had taken very ill and Kit had moved in to help take care of her sister. Anne’s death sets into motion a series of events that take the length of the book to come full circle. Seems Anne’s husband had wanted Kit all along, and with Anne’s death, nothing, or no one, would stop him from having what he wanted. But Kit had other ideas. Once she escapes his attack, she heads to the only person she knows that can help her. Abby, a former nanny to Kit & Anne, and owner of Willow House, an exclusive brothel in London. Of course Abby takes Kit in and puts her in a room where she can rest and not worry about Rutledge until she can figure out what she wants to do about her situation. No money, no place to stay and no family……….. Who knew when her bedroom door opened that fateful night, that her life would be forever changed?

Against the Wind is another wonderful story in the Agents of the Crown series. I think I’ve said before that I always feel a little smarter after I read one of Regan Walker’s books. She does a fantastic job of weaving her story through actual events of the time. From the author’s notes:

After the war with France ended in 1814, England suffered from great social, economic and political problems. Many of the major issues were the direct result of the war, but others were the necessary product of the changes occurring throughout society, some of which had begun earlier. The discontent that this change brought, and the distress in the lives of the working people, culminated in the series of events that occurred during 1811-1819, including the attack on the Prince Regent’s carriage, the March of the Blanketeers and the Pentrich Rebellion in 1817.

And, even as I type this review, fantastic does not do Regan justice in how she tells her stories. The fiction is brilliantly entwined with the history and grabs your attention before you know it. Her characters are always relatable and totally believable. From the footman to the Earls and Countesses, each character is tantamount to the story as she tells it. Kit is a wonderful heroine who has suffered so much loss in her short life that you find yourself rooting for her right from the beginning. And, Martin grabs hold and never lets go. If I had any complaint about the book, it would be that he kept Kit in the dark too long as to what they were doing in the Midlands, but, I also know that was probably the way of things back then. There is romance, more political intrigue, heartbreak and so much love in this book that you will not be able to put it down. And, I love the way she keeps her already established characters from previous books relevant. The next installment, Wind Raven, I believe comes out this year and I for one can’t wait!!! Again, Regan Walker delivers a MUST READ for any fan of this genre!!

[Pj Ausdenmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Returning to London in 1817, Sir Martin Powell is ready to put a life of political intrigue behind him but the Prince has one more assignment before he can do that. He's sending Sir Martin to the English Midlands to investigate rumors of an uprising against the Crown. Before he leaves London, at the urging of a friend, Martin pays a visit to an exclusive brothel. Still grieving the death of his beloved wife and unborn child on the streets of Paris during the war, he has no interest in a romantic entanglement but one night in the arms of a skilled courtesan will help him forget, if only for a few hours. It should have been that simple, but when Martin confuses the brothel owner's directions and opens the wrong door, what he discovers is a woman who will challenge everything he thinks he wants...and does not want.

Life has not been easy for Katherine, Lady Edgerton. The daughter of an earl, Kit is married off to a man old enough to be her grandfather who then dies shortly after their marriage, leaving her with very few resources. She moves in with her ailing sister and brother-in-law to care for her sister but cannot help but be wary around her sister's cruel husband, the Earl of Rutledge. Her sister has barely taken her final breath when the man tries to force himself on Kit, telling her she was the one he had wanted all along and now meant to have. Escaping, Kit takes refuge with the only person she can trust, her former nanny, now the owner of an exclusive brothel. When Martin accidentally enters her room, Kit is intrigued by the handsome man with the gentle manner. Still shaken from her earlier encounter with the Earl, she's soothed and intrigued by this man who treats her with reverence and makes a decision that will change the course of her life.

Regan Walker once again seamlessly blends together real events and people with fictional characters and her own imagination in a book that flows beautifully from beginning to end. Following the war with France, England enters a period of social unrest and economic change, a tumultuous time into which Walker's characters are plunged. Danger surrounds them as Martin, who marries Kit to keep her safe, works to prevent a revolution while at the same time nurturing a relationship with his new wife while keeping her in the dark as to the reason they are really in the Midlands. To the passion that flares between them from the beginning, they slowly forge a friendship that gradually deepens into love. Danger, Martin's secret life and a nasty villain bent on revenge against Kit, combined with the peaks and valleys of a marriage of convenience that is evolving into something more, give us a story that's sure to keep readers, as it did me, flipping pages late into the night to find out what happens next.

Walker's books are impeccably researched, immersing the reader into the time and place in which they are set. Her characters are well formed and believable. Kit and Martin had me rooting for them from the beginning. Martin, in particular, won my heart with the way he treated Kit. Secondary characters add to the richness of the overall story with those from the first book in the series giving readers a peek into their post-HEA lives and introducing Martin's brother, the hero of the next book, an intriguing privateer I can't wait to visit again.

~PJ
The Romance Dish

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another captivating spy novel by Regan Walker! When Martin Powell returns to London after being away serving as a spy for the Crown, all he is looking for is a night of great passion and no commitments. A way to wind down and recharge before his next, and final assignment for England. Going to Willow House, known for its exceptional women, he finds himself in the room with a sensual goddess named Kit. Having spent a glorious night with “Kitten”, he awakens to find that she is gone, and has not only left his bed, but Willow House. Upon learning her story, he sets off on a mission to find her, and make her his. But finding someone who is desperate to not be found proves to be rather difficult, especially when he is not the only one searching.

Lady Katherine Edgerton is not in a good place. A penniless widow who just lost her sister, the last family she had remaining. Not only that, but as soon as her sister passes, her brother-in-law attacks her and claims that he will now have her as he always meant to. Fleeing to the only place that she can think of that will provide her with a roof and food, Kit goes to Willow House, which is operated by her former governess. When Martin enters into her room by accident, she is overcome by his kindness and beauty, and gives into her carnal desires. After waking up in Martin’s arms, she realizes she has made a terrible mistake and flees. Trying to remain invisible to everyone, she does the only thing she can think of and seeks employment as a governess. But even then she cannot remain unseen by her lover or her brother-in-law. Out of options and in desperate need of protection, she agrees to marry Martin Powell. But when they travel into Midlands, all is not what they appear. Her husband, who is gentle, kind, and caring is also harboring secrets. Secrets that make her question who exactly she married and what kind of danger she may have put herself in. Determined to discover the truth, Kit puts herself in very dangerous situations and risks not only discovery by her husband and his cohorts but also by her brother-in-law, who seeks to harm her. Can Martin protect her from both the evils of his last mission and her devious brother-in-law? And can he win her trust and love without telling her all of his secrets?

Such a great novel! This one is filled with nefarious deeds, history, lots of mystery and just enough sex and romance to make it perfect! I will admit that when Martin had bedded Kit within the first few chapters, I had my doubts about the quality of the book, but after the initial “what?” that I felt, I really loved this novel! Martin’s nice guy characteristics are quite charming and Kit’s circumstances are so heartbreaking that you can definitely empathize with her character. With lots of action and great supporting characters found throughout the book, this is a book I would love to read again and again. A very well written and exciting novel by Ms. Walker. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!

Rating: 4.5

Heat Rating: Mild

Reviewed by AprilP

Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Against the Wind is a story full of action right from the first page as numerous heartbreaking events occur to set our main protagonists on the mutual road towards a HEA. Mutual loss bonds Martin and Kit together, as does an unexpectedly steamy encounter at an elite bordello. From this memorable encounter their lives become one of danger, both from the government and from enemies closer to home.

After years in service to the government and through the loss of his wife and child, Martin is now home to carry out one last job. Before undertaking it he pays a visit to a bordello and by a twist of fate ends up in the bed of Kit who stirs his heart after years of it being dormant but loses her in the light of day. Through a strange twist of fate they end up in each other's arms again where the rocky road to their HEA commences under the specter of danger. Martin is a good man, an honorable man, who's had his heart broken. He's loyal and desperate to keep the woman he's just discovered safe from harm which leads to secrets. It's not that he wants to keep secrets, he just doesn't want another woman he loves to be put in jeopardy.

Kit is a real Lady forced through fate to staying the night at a bordello while trying to decide where she should go after being forced to run from her home. With nothing to her name because of her vile brother-in-law, Edgar the Earl of Rutledge, who wants to claim her for his own after the death of her sister she's left with few choices. She's immediately drawn to the stranger who enters her room but runs from Martin before he discovers who she is. To save her from Edgar though he proclaims her as wife and does anything necessary to keep her safe. Kit is an admirable heroine in that she's smart, loyal, and caring. She wants to be an independent woman but the danger that Edgar represents keeps her from acting on her own.

The journey to a HEA is difficult though as many outside forces work to pull them apart. It's only through their trust, love, and intense emotions for one another that helps them reach their immensely satisfying conclusion. Along the way are numerous steamy encounters that further show Martin's devotion to her and made me even more enamored of him. These scenes were nicely balanced with real life historical events that Ms. Walker presented in a realistic way to draw the reader in completely. This blending of historical events was one of the highlights as I knew I was learning something but was highly entertained at the same time.

Even though this is the second book in Ms. Walker's Agents of the Crown series it can definitely be read on its own. Characters from the previous installment show up to assist the protagonists but knowing their background has no bearing on my enjoyment of this release. From its sensual romance to life or death historical events Ms. Walker has created an intensely emotional story that compels the reader to keep turning the pages. Considering my enjoyment of this story I'm counting down the days until the next installment of this series is released.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Against the Wind by Regan Walker

5 stars

Reviewed by: Angels

http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-...

Format:Kindle

Published: by Boroughs Publishing Group

Source: author copy Genre:Historical Romance

About Book

A night in London’s most exclusive bordello. Agent of the Crown Sir Martin Powell would not normally indulge, but the end of his time spying against Napoleon deserves a victory celebration. Yet, such pleasure will not come cheap. The auburn-haired courtesan he calls “Kitten” is in truth Katherine, Lady Egerton, a dowager baroness and the daughter of an earl as elusive as she is alluring. She flees a fate worse than death. But Martin has known darkness, too, and he alone can touch her heart—as she has touched his. To the English Midlands they will steal, into the rising winds of revolution.

My Thoughts

First of all have to point out that this book has a beautiful cover. Reagan Walker is a new author for me and I have to say that I absolutely loved this story.


The story was a light fun romance read with a little bit of spy intrigue.The characters were great and enjoyable to read about.

I would have to say that Agent of the Crown Sir Martin Powell would have to be my favorite character.He his tall dark and handsome and at the same time he has a dangerous aura that says I am deadly don't mess with me. On the other hand he is compassionate and loving and found him to be a very funny and witty character.

I also loved Katherine .She had a very difficult life yet seemed to stay strong in spirit.She never seemed to complain and was a very talented artist.Even though events transpired making her husband look guilty she had enough common sense to believe that there was a rational explanation and did not just run off and desert her man.

Katherine and Martin came together under unusual circumstances but, no matter there odd encounter they seem to have a connection which led Martin to search out Katherine in order to make her his .

Once I started on the story I could not put it down .The characters were so intriguing that they had you thinking what is to happen next.The story had a slow budding romance which helped Martin and Katherine strengthen

there bond. Danger lurked at every turn for Katherine making you on edge thinking this poor women will she ever be at peace and feel safe again ?

The story was a page turner for me and had me up to the wee hours of the morning just to finish it. Would definitely recommend this read to all those other romance fans out there.It was my first book by Regan Walker but, It will not be my last will be definitely checking out her other works.

A job well done we are giving Against the Wind 5 stars.And this one goes into the keep pile to read again at a later date !

[Maggi Andersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. Review by Romantic Historical Lovers

The book begins with the hero, Sir Martin Powell, suffering a terrible loss while in France working for the Crown as a spy. Returning to England years later, he is again drawn into service at the request of the Prince Regent. The Midlands is on the brink of a rebellion, and Martin is to move among the conspirators and report back. But before he departs London, he visits an exclusive bordello. And that night proves to have a profound effect on his life.

After her much older husband, Baron Egerton, dies not long after they marry, Lady Katherine “Kit” comes to take care of her unwell sister Anne, who is married to the violent Earl of Rutledge. Anne’s subsequent death places Kit at the mercy of Rutledge who wants her for himself and attempts to rape her. She fights him and, believing her actions have ruined her life, rushes to her former nanny, Abby, the only one who can help her. Abby is now the owner of Willow House, an exclusive brothel in London. Abby offers Kit accommodation so that she can rest and consider her options. With no money or family, Kit’s future is grim. When her bedchamber door opens, she is desperate as she greets the man who will be irrevocably bound up in her future.

Oh, God. What’s to become of me? If only someone would hold me and tell me it will be all right.
As if in answer, a deep voice came out of the darkness. “Come to me,” it said.

This is the first of Regan Walker’s books I have read and it didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the first in this series. The story grabbed my attention from the beginning, and did not disappoint throughout. I enjoyed Ms Walker’s deft weaving of the spy plot and romance and her knowledge of the historical events of the time.

Both hero and heroine come to this story with sad histories. Their gradual falling in love and coming to trust one another was subtly done. Kit is no push-over, she’s intelligent and past hurts are not easily forgotten and she fights her own desire while holding Martin at arm’s length. Neither does Martin marry Kit for love. He has been married before, and he still suffers the pain of loss. This arranged marriage is to benefit both parties, but they are passionately drawn to one another from the first.

It might have been even better to have Martin confide in Kit and then have her take a more active role in the spy plot. It would have brought them together throughout the detailed and well-written account of the uprising. I found myself reading quickly, keen to get back to Kit and discover what had happened to her. But the subplot was neatly done, as was the satisfactory ending.

I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
Maggi

[Goblin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now, I had the great pleasure of being contacted and asked if I wanted to read Against The Wind the next book in the Agents of The Crown series, there was only one answer that I could muster, and that was a great resounding yes! Excitedly I tried to finish the great stack of books I'd accumulated and agreed to read, until finally I got to sit down and delve into Against The Wind (I sense a theme hah.) So here are a smattering of my thoughts about the book, if possible, enjoyed more than the first novel in the series. I think I am a bit of a sucker for the wounded hearts however, I love a good downtrodden to happiness tale!

The novel opens with such a sad heart wrenching scene! But right away I felt for the brooding Sir Martin Powell, of course his sad and somewhat tragic circumstances left me feeling for the man. And honestly, I also instantly found myself loving Kit the kind hearted, distraught heroine; with no place to go, and little in way happiness herself. I could see right away that they were so right for one another, and Regan Walker wrote them so sweetly, I have to admit to a few girly, “awws” as I read onward.

Ms. Walker seems to have perfectly balanced historical fact and fiction in this novel, striking an equalized romance that actually drew my attention in all the right ways. I felt that this novel flowed better than its predecessor and I must admit that her style this time around enriched the story so much, along with mounting suspense I found myself honestly appreciating every moment this book had to offer.

Also, it was such a pleasure to see how Mary and Hugh were doing, just an added bonus since I liked them in Racing The Wind, the previous novel (which I fully recommend to any with an interest in this book.) If any of these things sound interesting to you, I promise this book will not disappoint in the least! Yet again I cannot wait to see what the next book brings, if the quality of this book is indicative of future parts in the series, count me in!

Note: I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Mary Willmont · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reagan Walkers Book 2 Against the Wind in her trilogy Agents of the Crown gives her readers a glimpse of one of England's sad, historical chapters when, after the 1812 French Revolution, England's rulers feared a similar uprising that might cause an overthrow of their government. To quell it, they resorted to trickery that led to the hanging of protestors and the further impoverishment of an already over taxed, economically bereft population of subjects. In the midst of this is Sir Martin Powell, a daring spy for the English Crown who upon finishing his mission as a spy in France has returned home for one last assignment. A surprise encounter with Lady Katherine Egerton, a beautiful young widow he only knows as Kit gives him a night of passionate lovemaking at Willow House, a highly exclusive brothel for a discretely screened cliental, owned by her former nanny.

He's desperate to find her. She can't stop thinking about him. Penniless, she seeks and finds refuge as a finishing governess to twin girls who need tutoring for their first season. Her one night of passion leads to marriage and a love she thought would never be hers as she finds herself in the middle of an uprising in which she is discovered and abducted by her vile, former brother in-law the Earl of Rutledge who she thought she had killed while protecting her honor after the death of her sister. Her only hope of escape is that Martin will find her and prevent Rutledge from succeeding with his plan to kill Martin and wed her.

With Walker's signature touch of creating an intriguing plot authentically set against a background of actual historical events and characters, the reader can become immersed in a love story involving two strong, memorable and compelling people who, though facing great peril, are willing to take a leap of faith into the emotional turmoil falling in love can be. To add flavor to her plot, Walker enhances it with the continuing story of the headstrong Mary, now Lady Ormond, and her husband, the dashing Nighthawk, whose exploits for the Crown in Racing With the Wind Book 1 became legendary during the French Revolution.

[Anna Belfrage · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is quite easy to assume Against the Wind is yet another variation on the standard Regency Romance, featuring the ton and titled characters. Even the cover would lead you to believe this is a light-hearted little caper of a story, but Ms Walker has written a novel that expands far beyond the traditional Regency Romance.
Yes, several of the main characters are titled, starting with our heroine, Lady Katherine Egerton, known as Kit to her friends. There is a handsome but evil earl, the Duke of Devonshire himself makes a cameo appearance, and in general the world Kit moves in is that of the wealthy and well-to-do. Unfortunately, due to various circumstances Kit is on the run, and she is saved by Martin Powell, a man with quite some emotional baggage of his own – and a rather dangerous job as one of the Crown’s most trusted spies. Ms Walker does an excellent job of describing the developing relationship between Martin and Kit, and as a reader one very quickly comes to care a lot for these two characters, wishing them a happily ever after.
Things are not that simple. Martin is called away on the Crown’s business, the evil earl intends to have his way with Kit, and all of this takes place against the background of the Pentrich Rebellion in June of 1817. Ms Walker presents us with a well-researched background to the uprising – supposedly the last rebellion on English soil – and along the way she expands her cast of characters to include innkeepers and sawyers, printers and unhappy, starving Derbyshire farmers. Real people and their sad fates are seamlessly woven into the storyline, historical detail is elegantly inserted throughout. The descriptive writing creates a strong sense of time and place, and as icing on the cake, we have Martin and Kit’s passionate love affair, the royal spy and the lady coming to realise life without the other is quite inconceivable.
All in all, in Against the Wind Ms Walker has delivered a very good read. I for one will definitely pick up her other books!

[Patricia McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Delicious Historical Recipe: Mix Passion, Add Intrigue, and Season with Suspense

"Against the Wind" is Book 2 in the "Agents of the Crown" trilogy by Regan Walker. As with her prior book in this series, the fictional characters are smoothly woven into real historical events. This vivid tapestry keeps the reader fully engaged start to finish.

The way the heroine Lady Katherine "Kit" Egerton and the hero Sir Martin Powell first meet is amusing but also sizzles with erotic undertones. I won’t give away too much detail here and spoil the surprise; let’s just say it’s a first encounter you won’t soon forget.

It’s also fun to see characters from the prior book appear and work in so naturally to the plot. Yet, even if you start reading the series with this book, it stands alone as a great read. That’s not always easy to do well with a series, but the author succeeded.

Historical events and people are wonderfully detailed in "Against the Wind," but I also like simpler touches, like Kit’s artistic skills entering into the plot in a meaningful way. Kit even sees Martin through an artist’s eyes and takes the reader with her into that world. The author wraps the book with extra notes that this historical fan appreciated. Looking forward to “Wind Raven” now, and especially its exotic setting!

[Carin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do you go when running from you pervert brother in law who wants you as his own, to the brothel run by your old nanny of course. When you are mistaken for one of the "employees" what's a girl to do but go with the flow. In Against The Wind, Kit has one bad turn after another that lead her to something that could be very very good as long as she can get away from the very very bad that is after her.

Set just following the Napoleonic war in Regency England, Martin a former spy finds his work for the crown not quite over when he lands on the soil of his home. While doing his duty to England Martin is also going to do his best to protect Kit.

Ms. Walker creates a fantastic mix of sweeping historic romance, spy thriller and enough sexual heat to make it steamy with out stepping over into erotic. The richly detailed writing paints vivid images of war, unrest and of course the balls of the Ton.
You can be swept away into the world in a time of huge change as well as into the love story that is a wild ride for Kit and Martin.

I couldn't put it down, it gave me 3 things I love in one great story History, Mystery and Sex!

I received my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Dee Deacon Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book in Regan Walker's Agents of the Crown Trilogy brings us to England just after the 1812 French Revolution. Sir Martin Powell is back in England for his last mission - to find those responsible for inciting rebellions is parts of England. Having loved & lost due to the danger of his job, finding love was the last thing he expected to find, especially in a bordello. Lady Katherine Egerton, a widow, has seen how love can tear someone apart & vows never to fall in love. Having just lost her sister, she has to fight the advances of her brother-in-law who means to have her at all costs. Alone & penniless she flees to her former governess' home, the famous bordello - Willow House, where through the hand of fate she spends one glorious night with a stranger.


Having read Racing With the Wind, the first book in this trilogy, I knew I would enjoy Against the Wind. However, it was a little long on the actions of the rebellion for my taste (but not enough to put it down).

Mixing actual historical events with fiction, strong characters, love & intrigue makes Regan Walker an author worth reading. I am definitely looking forward to seeing where Ms. Walker takes us next in the final book of this trilogy, Wind Raven.

[Julie Ramsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Against The Wind By Regan Walker 5 stars

This story is about Martin a top notch spy w

ho is trying to retire and move on with his

life from a career that cost him everything

and Kit a beautiful young woman running away

from the only life she's ever known. Both are

trying to start over, start fresh. Will they

be able to, will there love be enough or will

the demons of there pasts rear there ugly heads

and stop them before they begin. I am not normally

one for this genre of book but I have to say this

book was really good. What I loved was the way the

author sucks you in and makes you feel like you

are part of the story. That you are right there

within the pages of the book, side by side with

these amazing characters. This was a story of two

people who fight there past and present to have a

future together. It was a wonderful story full of

love and intrigue. I couldn't put it down, a

definite must read!

Adriana D'Apolito

complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com

[Miriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opening of this book was heavy and not what I expected. It's not everyday I read a book that begins with death and harm. That usually comes after the characters have been introduced. Not this one.

The sorrow and pain Martin and Katherine experience at the beginning had me silently pleading for happiness and love to come their way almost right away. Of course, it doesn't happen that way but I hoped anyway. Their night together was electric, and I wanted them to experience that level of passion almost as soon as it was over.

Ms. Walker has this amazing ability to write stories rich with history yet balanced with the perfect dose of fiction. Her stories are not information dumping grounds; they are stories within stories that grab the reader by the shirtfront and hangs on until the very end, when the danger has passed and love has conquered all. Well done, Ms. Walker. Book Three is already on my TBR list, and I'm anxious to start it.

[Debbie McCreary · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page, Against the Wind grabs your attention. True, the start is unlike any I have read before, but that is what I like about Regan's writing. This is the second of her Agents of the Crown books, but it is a great stand-alone too. We are first introduced to the hero, Sir Martin Powell, and the heroine, Lady Katherine Egerton in a brothel. Katherine is hiding from her lecherous brother-in-law who tried to rape her. Martin has just returned from his spy days. From their unusual meeting, there is a bond that deepens. In order to protect Katherine, Martin marries her. As he is assigned on another mission, she follows. Against the Wind is full of mystery, intrigue and romance. I love the situations Katherine gets herself into, giving Martin more to do that his mission. Once more Regan has written a book filled with spies, adventure and romance. I will strongly recommend her books. Her knowledge of the era shows in her writing.

[RedRedtheycallmeRed · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's a lot of history here, the romance between Kit and Martin was secondary to the rebellion/spy story. That's not a negative, the history aspect was quite interesting and completely new to me.

Kit was a great character, smart, witty and compassionate. Immediately after her sister dies from a long illness, her brother-in-law tries to rape her and she hides out in a high-end brothel. That's where she meets Martin. They had great chemistry.

Martin, in his last spy assignment, is besotted by Kit, and having lost his first wife to violence, is consumed with protecting her. He keeps Kit in the dark about his spying, making her reluctant to trust him. There were times I was frustrated by Martin, being honest with Kit would have eliminated quite a few problems for them.

All in all, a good read for me, I felt like I got a little history lesson with my romance!

[Amanda Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Walker has done it again with a gripping opener in Against the Wind which lays the foundation for an action-packed novel, chucked full of romance. I have read and reviewed all of Walker’s work thus far, and without question her books are becoming even more engrossing and three dimensional. She has many scene changes enriching the read, and without question her history is well researched. Her descriptions are lush and her love scenes steamy. As always I enjoyed the incorporation of characters from her previous work, and I am intrigued by new additions, particularly Jean Nicholas Powell, Martin’s brother. I understand we will see more of him in Wind Raven, Walker’s next novel. I am ready this time for a bad boy. We will just have to tune in again.

[Janice Hougland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am still so upbeat about this series and the quality of the writing that I took half as long to read Book No. 2 as I did No. 1. I felt like I wasn't against the wind so much as WITH the wind as I clung to every word, every page. This Agent of the Crown (Martin) was embroiled in so much danger and chaos, both in France and England, that it was nail biting suspense throughout the story. Add to that the heroine ("Kit" for Katherine) and her danger from a brother-in-law after the death of her husband and sister, as she meets the hero and gets involved in Martin's danger...you have an explosive mix of romance and intrigue. It was truly an exciting story that kept me on the edge of my chair...and bed at night...from beginning to end. Now I'm off to Book No. 3 in the series!