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Rogue Royals #1
The Baron's Ghost
The real trick isn’t how to stay alive—it’s how to keep their blasted gloves clean in the process.
"An escapade to remember" and "one of the best books I've read this year." - The Independent Book Review.
Christina Rushing, a baroness spy, is no stranger to the dark—her late husband can attest to that. But when she takes an espionage job to make ends meet, she ends up double-crossing an entire nation. What’s worse, the Baron’s name has appeared on an active shipping schedule, though he should be six feet under.
Join Christie and her guns, The Good Baron and Rudy, as she turns from spy to pirate to stop a war and find a dead man in this steampunk Victorian mystery thriller filled with backstabbing colleagues, snotty gentry, hidden caves, blazing guns, poison quills, and the occasional assassin.
Because what's worse? The Baron living or being responsible for his murder?
****
Amazon and GoodRead
". . . fast-paced action, witty dialogue, and the fiercest heroine you could ask for . . ."
". . . a brilliant read! It has a bit of everything - adventure, mystery, romance, and fantastic characters."
"Just shut your saucebox and read it already!"
Nominated as Book of the Year by the Independent Book Review!
"An escapade to remember" and "one of the best books I've read this year." - The Independent Book Review.
Christina Rushing, a baroness spy, is no stranger to the dark—her late husband can attest to that. But when she takes an espionage job to make ends meet, she ends up double-crossing an entire nation. What’s worse, the Baron’s name has appeared on an active shipping schedule, though he should be six feet under.
Join Christie and her guns, The Good Baron and Rudy, as she turns from spy to pirate to stop a war and find a dead man in this steampunk Victorian mystery thriller filled with backstabbing colleagues, snotty gentry, hidden caves, blazing guns, poison quills, and the occasional assassin.
Because what's worse? The Baron living or being responsible for his murder?
****
Amazon and GoodRead
". . . fast-paced action, witty dialogue, and the fiercest heroine you could ask for . . ."
". . . a brilliant read! It has a bit of everything - adventure, mystery, romance, and fantastic characters."
"Just shut your saucebox and read it already!"
Nominated as Book of the Year by the Independent Book Review!
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2023
28 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Kyro Dean
17 books6 followersKyro Dean is a co-author for the Fires of Qaf, a fantasy romance series, as well as some alt-history and steampunk fare that can be found on Kindle Vella. She also owns and writes and edits for Vanilla Grass, a writing resource blog. She loves speaking and presenting and escaping into other worlds.
When not contriving medieval trists between properly tortured characters, she is playing with her delightfully curious children and talking with her plants, who sometimes give terrible advice.
When not contriving medieval trists between properly tortured characters, she is playing with her delightfully curious children and talking with her plants, who sometimes give terrible advice.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
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May 4, 2023“Hades in a steamarine”, loved this book and I have found my new favorite writer! Mystery and suspense at every nook and cranny. Spicy, enchanting and tough as nails, Christie will steal your heart and have you intrigued the whole way through. Hard to put down, be ready for fun-filled action!
April 9, 2023
The Baron's Ghost is a brilliant read! It has a bit of everything - adventure, mystery, romance, and fantastic characters. I know the story is about Christina but Charlie stole the show for me. A man after my own heart!
May 10, 2023
Just shut your saucebox and read it already! You’ll be sure to become a Gigglemug after the first page! I know I did!
The steampunk world is tricky to capture, especially to help someone else not as familiar with it desire to delve into its world full of unusual and thrilling elements that must be submissive, to some degree, to the imagination of the author.
Kyro Dean does this Effortlessly!!! And what an imagination and brilliance she has in her ability to help you see and be a part of her characters and this world’s creations!
As an escape room owner with my husband who is a meticulous mastermind puzzle and set/story creator, (just sayin’) we love new themes and steampunk is one of our FAVORITES! But we have found that to create believable steamfunk (yes, that’s written right) and imagery for our gamers whether through the contraptions created, verbiage and slang used, detailed Victorian-era setting, or complicated yet likable characters, is NOT an easy task!
Trust me when I say, Kyro Dean will take you on an amazing adventure with her beautiful descriptions and imagery, and will have all these theme related challenges accomplished with ease. Couldn’t put it down!
And it’s not just because my name is also Christie…but that was a fun perk as her spirited character sure came to life!
The steampunk world is tricky to capture, especially to help someone else not as familiar with it desire to delve into its world full of unusual and thrilling elements that must be submissive, to some degree, to the imagination of the author.
Kyro Dean does this Effortlessly!!! And what an imagination and brilliance she has in her ability to help you see and be a part of her characters and this world’s creations!
As an escape room owner with my husband who is a meticulous mastermind puzzle and set/story creator, (just sayin’) we love new themes and steampunk is one of our FAVORITES! But we have found that to create believable steamfunk (yes, that’s written right) and imagery for our gamers whether through the contraptions created, verbiage and slang used, detailed Victorian-era setting, or complicated yet likable characters, is NOT an easy task!
Trust me when I say, Kyro Dean will take you on an amazing adventure with her beautiful descriptions and imagery, and will have all these theme related challenges accomplished with ease. Couldn’t put it down!
And it’s not just because my name is also Christie…but that was a fun perk as her spirited character sure came to life!
May 8, 2023
Told from the POV of a sneaky yet snarky spy-for-hire, this is an intriguing story of lost and found love in a world of unique, fantastical machinery and rivaling governments! Fans of steampunk and romance will absolutely love it!
August 12, 2023
Kyro Dean’s first, solo novel, The Baron’s Ghost, opens with flurry of gunfire: our protagonist, Christina Rushing – a fallen noble turned reluctant wife turned merry widow turned spy – has been tasked with stealing some documents and things did not entirely go to plan. There’s a face from the past, a name on the documents of a man that should be dead, and a weaponized hairpiece that gets Christina out of this jam… and into her next one.
It’s a good setup, and Dean has been co-author of enough driving fantasy adventures that it feels like she should be able to keep the momentum up, sadly for me, this foray into steampunk never quite landed. The setting was intriguing, steampunk is a fun world to play in, but the characters, and the tension between them, felt stiff in ways that saddened me, given how fluid Dean’s work on the Fires of Qaf series is. That said, I could well have come into this with the wrong preconceptions, given my familiarity with Dean's previous collaborations. There's a very real possibility that someone coming in to her work for the first time would feel none of this.
All that said, may none of us be judged absolutely on our first efforts at anything. Starting a novel, and a series, is a tricky thing, and Dean has proven herself in other ways. This reader remains hopeful that Dean will find her footing with the sequel, and that we have many, many more works from her pen to look forward to.
It’s a good setup, and Dean has been co-author of enough driving fantasy adventures that it feels like she should be able to keep the momentum up, sadly for me, this foray into steampunk never quite landed. The setting was intriguing, steampunk is a fun world to play in, but the characters, and the tension between them, felt stiff in ways that saddened me, given how fluid Dean’s work on the Fires of Qaf series is. That said, I could well have come into this with the wrong preconceptions, given my familiarity with Dean's previous collaborations. There's a very real possibility that someone coming in to her work for the first time would feel none of this.
All that said, may none of us be judged absolutely on our first efforts at anything. Starting a novel, and a series, is a tricky thing, and Dean has proven herself in other ways. This reader remains hopeful that Dean will find her footing with the sequel, and that we have many, many more works from her pen to look forward to.
March 28, 2024
The Baron's Ghost tells the story of Christina Ravensworth, nee Rushing, a female spy and sometimes assassin. Although the plot is a fast paced adventure story, Christina is not a simple action heroine. She lost her parents when she was seventeen and thinks about her mother almost every day. Her mother once told her “that a soft, kidskin glove could protect against dust, get done what must, and earn people's trust.” Christina still wears gloves and thinks about her mom each time she puts them on. She also embarks on adventures with two men she's attracted to: Philip, the Viscount of Portsmouth, and Charles Blackwell, someone she knew as a child. Both of these men do not always appear to think of her as a friend. This is a good book for readers who enjoy action packed, complex stories.
May 28, 2023
This action adventure story wasn't quite what I was expecting, but I picked it up for the steampunk. I really liked it, though. I think it has depth in the characters and pithy dialogue. I also thought the main character was rather spunky, which I appreciate.
If you're expecting a romance--this isn't one, though it has a romantic subplot. I think that's where some of the so-so reviews had an issue. I was surprised at some of them and couldn't help but take a look at their profiles. Their lists are heavily romance.
The Baron's Ghost is more a gritty but fun look at a fallen noblewoman who went dark after some terrible circumstances finding her humanity again.
If you're expecting a romance--this isn't one, though it has a romantic subplot. I think that's where some of the so-so reviews had an issue. I was surprised at some of them and couldn't help but take a look at their profiles. Their lists are heavily romance.
The Baron's Ghost is more a gritty but fun look at a fallen noblewoman who went dark after some terrible circumstances finding her humanity again.
November 6, 2023
‘The Baron’s Ghost’ is a thriller action-adventure story about Christina and how her job ties her into a hyped situation. As a spy, she is sent on a mission to steal the schedule for an international trading company. However, she happens to find out that the person she is to get the information from is her ex-lover. The spy life is exciting and filled with so much drama. Christina’s personality and demeanor are very attractive. As a female protagonist, I found her very appealing and interesting to follow.
The narrative is written well, and the story’s pace is steady. There is much mystery and twists in the story.
I recommend this book to fiction readers and thriller fans.
The narrative is written well, and the story’s pace is steady. There is much mystery and twists in the story.
I recommend this book to fiction readers and thriller fans.
May 31, 2024
“The Baron’s Ghost” is the first steampunk novel I’ve ever read, and I loved it! The book’s gritty heroine, Christie, brings more to the narrative than just being a sort of female Indiana Jones. A “rogue royal,” she’s got a cat’s nine lives, fierce feminine wiles, and a glove fetish. The action is visceral and fast-paced, and the “love story” elements are dagger-clenched-in-teeth, pirate-style, with plenty of tense, emotional see-sawing that keeps you guessing—and impels you to keep turning the pages. Highly recommended!
May 17, 2023
I was entranced by this book by chapter 2. I was intrigued in the beginning. The writing style keeps you on your toes always wanting more information. I could not put the book down. I only wanted to read more. I feel as if I could be Christie and all the characters are personable, I can relate to each one. The plot was fun and exciting keeping you captive. I was given an ARC copy of the book and it was amazing. I was not disappointed at all. I was so happy to find a book i truly enjoyed.
July 24, 2023
Supposedly a Victorian steampunk novel set in a world of three rival powers, Oceana, Britainna and Americana. Oceana is an island nation that builds islands in violation of a treaty. Christiana is a spy who works for rival interests for hire. She has been hired to steal a shipping schedule. the plot hangs together very loosely. It doesn't make a lot of sense. But, on the positive side, I finished it.
April 6, 2024
a fun steampunk adventure!
Part spy thriller, part mystery and with an undercurrent of romance, the Baron’s Ghost was a fun steampunk adventure. Our protagonist Christina is multilayered and interesting, witty and bold. She takes us on a complex journey willed with dark, mysterious elements and lots of conflicting emotions. Engaging and exciting, this was a unique read for me and I definitely recommend.
Part spy thriller, part mystery and with an undercurrent of romance, the Baron’s Ghost was a fun steampunk adventure. Our protagonist Christina is multilayered and interesting, witty and bold. She takes us on a complex journey willed with dark, mysterious elements and lots of conflicting emotions. Engaging and exciting, this was a unique read for me and I definitely recommend.
August 24, 2024
Well Written Steampunk Mystery
The novel is a well-written mystery: it shows the suspects at the start and reveals the culprit later. Maybe I'm horrible at solving mysteries, because I never linked the clues to the culprit.
Throughout the story, the protagonist undergoes clear emotional growth, which leads to a romantic subplot.
It occurs in a fantasy, steampunk setting and is written with a touch of Victorian-inspired language.
The novel is a well-written mystery: it shows the suspects at the start and reveals the culprit later. Maybe I'm horrible at solving mysteries, because I never linked the clues to the culprit.
Throughout the story, the protagonist undergoes clear emotional growth, which leads to a romantic subplot.
It occurs in a fantasy, steampunk setting and is written with a touch of Victorian-inspired language.
January 30, 2025
It's rare to come across steampunk, which for some unknown reason is highly underrated. This is a genre that should receive more attention. I've yet to see a full-blown steampunk film. Adapting this novel into a movie would be a good start. It's a unique adventure. I loved the writing style, characters, and plot. If you like science fiction, fantasy, and mystery, give this steampunk novel a chance.
May 9, 2023
What an account of adventure, intrigue, and romance! Transport yourself aboard a steam-powered airship into the daring pirate life of Christina Rushing, a ne'er-do-well haunted by her husband's ghost, a rogue with a dashing smile, and unclean hands. Her exploits uncovering the mysteries of murder and love will stir the heart, the mind, and the laugh-pouch.
I highly recommend!
I highly recommend!
February 5, 2025
I love steampunk but noticed it's hard for books to pull them off. No idea why and steampunk barely exists in the film industry. Every once in a while, though, you find a good one. This is one of the few steampunks that stick with those good vibes. Very enjoyable. It's not something unheard of or that takes the genre beyond boundaries but it's a really good story.
March 29, 2024
I did enjoy this read--action, mystery, and intrigue galore--but something about the plot kept bothering me. I know it involved a lot of spy/espionage and backstabbing, but it was all muddled andd confusing. It just wasn't clear/concise enough for me.
April 5, 2023
Super fun read full of action, espionage, and steampunk flare. The romance was good but didn't take over the political intrigue plot. Loved it.
April 21, 2023
Really enjoying the read so far!
April 27, 2023
From chapter one, Christie had my heart! The tension, the adventure, the romance--all of it. ♥️♥️ Can't wait for the next!
May 30, 2023
Definitely different. Definitely written well. Book 2 looks intriguing. I'm excited to read it.
June 1, 2023
Steampunk action and swoony romance make for an adventurous read you won’t want to put down.
March 30, 2024
An Engaging Adventure Story
The Baron’s Ghost draws readers in from the very first page. The novel is fast-paced, well written, and creative. In particular, Christie is a compelling protagonist. I love the steampunk elements, and Dean does a fantastic job of bringing the world to life. I recommend this book to anyone who is craving a thrilling mystery!
The Baron’s Ghost draws readers in from the very first page. The novel is fast-paced, well written, and creative. In particular, Christie is a compelling protagonist. I love the steampunk elements, and Dean does a fantastic job of bringing the world to life. I recommend this book to anyone who is craving a thrilling mystery!
June 10, 2024
Not sure how I feel bout this one. Action and steampunk but the characters...hmm...
May 13, 2025
Brilliant!
A mix of historic romance, revenge, piracy and steampunk technology, this book is an adventure to behold!
I loved all of it!
A mix of historic romance, revenge, piracy and steampunk technology, this book is an adventure to behold!
I loved all of it!
May 23, 2025
Love the characters in this book. I love Christina’s spunk and Charlie’s wit. And Philip just pulls at my heartstrings. Just lots of fun to read.
May 17, 2023
Wow! What a wonderful journey. The Baron's Ghost is a rogue's tale packed with mystery, intrigue, and romance. Kyro Dean cleverly crafts a tale that quickly catches your attention. The characters have been written with traits that left me alternating between love and hate (or at least dislike) for them throughout the book. I can't wait to read the next installment in this series.
December 19, 2025
Non stop adventure, a little dizzying at times how the danger was non stop. But the main character is a spy, so it fits the genre. I admit I don’t love political conspiracy plots, my brain needs a diagram and no matter how much they explain it, I just need it a little plainer. Plus i think some characters needed more unique attributes to be able to tell them apart. Love the love triangle, banter, ingenuity and stealthy escapades. Not a fan of her making huge therapy breakthroughs while having escapades. It was jarring and didn’t feel authentic. Also some transitions between scenes wasn’t clear and I was confused at times. But a fun romp in steam punk.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews