Sweet Treason

by Gail Ranstrom

Sweet Treason by Gail Ranstrom

Passion and deadly secrets…

On the run from British troops, American Revolutionary War spy Ryan Sutton forces Emily Nevins to hide him on her English farm. But Emily already keeps secrets that could mean her demise if discovered. Nevertheless as the long night wears on, attraction sizzles and they give in to unexpected passion, sure they'll never see each other again…

Deception and desire…

A chance encounter in London society stirs heated memories of their sensual night together. They begin a heady dance of suspicion and desire. Though sympathetic to the struggling Colonists, Emily cannot trust a traitorous spy who may expose her dangerous intrigues. And Ryan risks his very life by trusting a woman privy to his true loyalties. But they are unable to deny their need for one another, even as Emily's secrets are about to be exposed, and the noose around Ryan's neck grows tighter.

Betrayal and love…

And now someone has discovered both their secrets. The price of silence? Betrayal. Of their causes, their love, their futures. In the end, lives will be lost and sacrifices made. Their choice is impossible. Which will they surrender--their lives...or their hearts?

Genres: Historical, Romance, Historical Romance

250 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 9, 2013

Reviews

[WhiskeyintheJar · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was a lot happening arc and character wise but they flitter through instead of solidly panning out. While I was reading there was a sense of not really knowing why something was happening; lack of connectedness between story and characters. Emily was a stronger woman character but didn't have strong guidance from the story. For most of the book it felt like our main characters were just bumbling around London, dealing with a tagged on spurned woman, Emily fighting off men, and the occasional verbal romantic exchange. I think I finished this story with a lot more questions than when I started (Ryan's a Major?) and a little disappointed.

Full review posted at: Reading Between the Wines book club

[Kat Morrisey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book blew my expectations out of the water. I went into this unsure how I would react to both the characters and the subject matter. It's a historical romance set in England (Sussex and England) with the American Revolution playing an important part in the story-telling. But more than that, it was a story of a young woman who for 6 years had no one to take her back, no to protect her, and no one to help her, as she tried to keep her (and by extension her sister, Lucy) out of the dastardly grasp of Mr. Dodge.

What a jerk that guy was. More than a jerk by the end in fact since he turned into a violent, assaulting douche bag who I wished someone had shot. Sadly, this doesn't happen. However, he does get his. And I loved just how that happened and who the person (or persons) were that saw to his demise.

Ryan. There is so much to say, and swoon over, when it comes to Ryan. When he meets Emily he doesn't hide his attraction, his lust for her. And surprisingly, nor does she. But slowly, and most assuradley, he sees that there is more to Emily than meets the eye. He knows there is a mystery there, secrets that are close to smothering her along with the responsibilities she has to carry as a result of things beyond her control, and soon wants more than just her body. He wants her. Body and soul, all of her. This is of course in direct conflict with his mission but he pursues Emily anyway. There was intrigue and suspense, murder and a lot of heartbreak. There was a woman trying to get between our hero and heroine, one who I wished was thrown in Newgate Prison just because of how mean, dastardly and in a way, evil she is. She cared not for the damage she left in her wake and her selfishness was obvious and deplorable. (As you can tell, I hated Ms. Turner. Hated her!) But through it all, while juggling tasks which could lead him to hang for being a spy, Ryan still looked out for his Emmie. He protected her even when she pushed him away and even when, on the surface it seemed that all hope for the two of them was lost. Ryan was a fantastic hero and has been added to my historical book boyfriend list. Seriously. The guy was alpha, hot, protective, sexy, and bad-ass in the best ways possible and I couldn't get enough of him.

And let me say a few words about Emily. I was worried when I started this book. Worried that, like several of the heroines I've read of in the last week, I'd be annoyed, frustrated and want to throttle her to pieces by the end of the book. I am thankful this was not the case. Not at all. Emily was a strong, independent, fierce, protective, loving and gorgeous woman, with only a small amount of recklessness thrown in. And in Emily's case, her recklessness I approved of 100 percent. I would have done the same in those circumstances for myself and the people I loved. She showed her cleverness and courage and for that, she was rewarded. She did she do what she had to save her family home, her sister's (and family's) reputation), and the love of her life, and she did it fearlessly, or as fearlessly as is possible when the threat of torture and hanging and looming. Emily stood up to French Captains, the King's men, spies, and villains; sacrificed her own happiness for that of those she loved, no matter the personal cost, and endangered her very life, all for the same reason. Love.

Devaux and Lucy were adorable and I loved seeing how their story played out. It was both adorable, sweet and I was happy to see that, in making her final preparations, Emily made sure that the two would have a secure future, unblemished by her "deeds" or "misdeeds" depending on which side you're on. In addition, the fierceness and loyally of Bridey and Mary, and Simon too, was heart-warming. They all risked so much to save Oak Hill, and each other, from ruin. They worked together and protected one another even though doing so risked all their lives.

The end was bittersweet in some ways, given the decision that is made, but also beautiful and in my opinion, perfect. I loved every second of it and I admit, I even gave a heavy, satisfied sigh at the end. I would have loved an epilogue though, to see how everyone fared after the final act, but only because I am an epilogue-loving fool and didn't want the story to end. I know, I'm a bit greedy like that.
The author's writing technique and style was excellent. I only saw one editing error (the word "save" was used instead of, I think "safe". Not trying to be nitpicky and of course such a small issue didn't detract from my rating one bit.) This is definitely a book I could read again and again, and plan to!

*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review will be posted here at a later date.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Sweet Treason by Gail Ranstrom, the year is 1779, the American Revolutionary War is going on, and Emily is at the family estate in Oak Hills, England, struggling to keep it going and find the money to do so. If she can make it a few more months she will inherit free and clear, and she will resort to almost anything to make sure she doesn't lose the estate.

When an American 'spy' (Ryan) shows up in her home and Emily doesn't out him to the soldiers who come knocking, Ryan convinces her that if she says anything now, she will be implicated as a co conspirator. Even with a heat and attraction to him that is fully unexpected, Emily is glad to see the back of him. She has her own secrets to protect, she does not want to risk being assocaited with a traitor!

Forced to go to London by the trustee of the family estate, who Emily does not trust one bit but she is determined to figure out his ulterior motive, Emily starts running into Ryan more and more. Coincidence or something more? Emily does not want to trust the spy, but the desire they feel for each other can't be denied. Emily knows Ryan won't be staying around, but she can no longer resist him or how he makes her feel. She takes big chances to be with him. Not only could her heart be broken when he leaves, but the secrets they both harbor could end up harming them. With the war going on, clandesine meetings, unexpected and frightening happenings, Ryan and Emily are going to have to trust someone. Can they trust each other? Are they really that different? And what could possibly become of them?

I have to admit I don't read a lot of historical romance books, but I am so glad I read Sweet Treason! I loved it!!! Emily was such a strong woman, especially for the era Sweet Treason took place in. She was not going to sit quietly for anything or anyone and I loved that about her. She is so busy taking care of everyone else though, who will take care of Emily? I really enjoyed the relationship between her and Ryan, and seeing it evolve. Ryan played tough, but when it came to Emily he definitely has a soft spot! He is standing up for what he believes in...and they might not be as different as they think.

Gail's descriptives are so well written that I could feel the cool air and smell the salt water...see the busy streets, and be at the parties. All of the characters were well written and came together nicely to pull you into the story. I loved it too because even though it was hundreds of years ago, feelings are the same no matter what century and those are what makes you relate to the characters, especially Emily

I am so glad I read Sweet Treason and recommend it to any romance reader, especially if you like historical romance, intrigue, and heat!

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books.

I was interested in this book because of its time period and location–a book about an American Revolutionary spy in England? Sign me up! Initially the story had a lot of promise–I really liked the characters of Emily and Ryan, and their early antagonistic banter was amusing. I especially enjoyed Emily’s refusal to call Ryan by the correct name–I may actually have snorted iced tea out my nose when she referred to him as “Mr. Button”. Is that TMI?

I enjoyed many of the secondary characters as well, especially Emily’s younger sister Lucy and her eventual paramour, Lord Jonah Devaux. Ryan’s cousins and uncle, Emily’s faithful servants, and the French smuggler too were all sympathetic characters. The first third or so of the novel had me hooked, eagerly turning the pages.

Somewhere after that point, though, things started to get a bit dicey. Quite a few extra plot lines were thrown in there–an angry jilted ex-lover/source of information of Ryan’s, for example, vows revenge. Not one, but two nefarious personages have designs on Emily’s fortune and person. A member of Parliament finds out at a very public venue that his mistress has been less than faithful, and tragedy ensues. Spies on both sides are wounded left and right, with many suffering mortal wounds. At times it became tricky keeping track of all the different threads, and more than once I had to use the “find” feature on my ereader to remind myself of who that person was and why they were doing what they were doing. Unfortunately, in the end, it also didn’t feel like all of these separate plot lines were completely resolved.

The villains of the novel–yes, there’s more than one–show no real redeeming qualities in the end and as a result feel one-dimensional. They’re definitely not as fleshed out as the more protagonistic characters. It's not the worst complaint to have about a book, but it did make the reading feel uneven.

I also ran a bit hot and cold with Emmy and Ryan’s relationship–mainly because they were constantly doing the same thing. In the beginning their antagonism made sense–they both had secrets that could hurt themselves and others, and no real reason to trust the other person with them–but then they’d do something that screamed relationship and the next minute Emily was pushing Ryan away and thinking about how she was still afraid of him. It got to be old after a while…but then you’d have a really sweet moment, like this one:

This was a token of all Emily held dear—of Oak Hill, her family, of who she was. And now, of Ryan, too. She held it to her heart. She’d thought it was the land that she loved. Her mother and sister who needed her. That it was her duty, her obligation, to preserve those things and keep them safe, no matter the cost. But her mother was gone, and Lucy would have Devaux. All the things she’d held to so tightly suddenly had no meaning. Only this small remembrance and the man who’d redeemed it. All she’d ever need of the past she now held in the palm of her hand.

Climax and falling action of the novel has drama galore and all kinds of action–real page-turning reading–but the resolution itself is amazingly abrupt. Again, there’s unresolved issues there, especially concerning what will happen with most of the things that Emily just mused about holding dear in the passage above, less than a dozen pages earlier in the book.

Overall I did enjoy the basic story here, and liked the main characters. It’s from a new-to-me author, and though I didn’t love everything about the book I’d probably pick up another by her in the future. C+ rating.

I was given an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Sue Ellen Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The cover to me is very beautifully designed and it shows off a boat in the background which is a major part of what Emily is willing to do to overcome obstacles within the book (which could be considered a treason type affair during this time period) . Covers have to have some appeal and as I said this one has a great mystery with the color contrasts to it.

As the blurb said there was an American Revolutionary War raging and everyone was affected by it, people were on different sides and sometimes were forced to keep secrets that would not only affect their reputation but also could cost them their lives and those they loved. Emily Nevins was one of these people, she was not directly involved in the war but due to unfortunate circumstances she had to keep a deep dark secret and continue to help with a certain affair of life to keep her sister safe. Very early on into the story you meet Ryan Sutton who is involved in the war also but may or may not be working for the same side as he portrays in public (can’t tell you this or I would ruin you). All through the story Emily and Ryan seems to be brought together by faith and of course with her quirky supposedly forgetfulness of names keeps calling him by a different last name (similar to his but changes it up a tad bit). I found this funny! The book was well thought out for and had a good flow with a couple of twists, which caught me by suprise.

All great books that are written in these times must have a villain and the author has put one here too. I do wish there may have been a little more part with the villains and the main characters, but the author did a good job with all the characters she had in Sweet Treason. All through the book you find glimpses of betrayals and how it may have been to be in a war during these times because seriously you didn’t know who may have fought for which sides since spies were a major part. I think the author did a good job in bringing some of the facts from how it may have been during those time frames. I would read more from this author and do hope that she continues to write more.

[Melody May (What I'm Reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Posted on What I'm Reading

All right, I finished Sweet Treason by Gail Ranstrom. I have enjoyed Gail Ranstrom's book in the past and I was excited to see she had a new book out. Here goes my thoughts on Sweet Treason.

Emily Nevins would be consider a bit stubborn, and believes that she can do everything for herself. I think a lot of it has to do with responsibility was thrust upon her and she didn't really know who she could turn to. Fear that her lecherous trustee would take control of her assets and force her to do his bidding. So, she had to cover up a lot of stuff to keep her sister and herself safe. However, she encounters an American Revolutionist spy by the name of Ryan Sutton. Emily ends up getting caught in the middle of Ryan spy work, which puts her in more danger.

All right, the story sounded really good. However, I struggle with a good portion of the story. It wasn't until I got to middle when things started to pick up and basically caused my heart to stop. One thing I was surprise on the villain. I honestly didn't see who real villain was until we got closer to the end. Both Emily and Ryan are fighting for what they believe in which almost cost them their love.

By the time I finished Sweet Treason it kind of reminded me of a game of chess. Which if you have played chess, you need to think strategical. The key players in the story were always trying to think one or two moves ahead. In a way you needed to keep track of the important characters and how they all related to one another. It's an all right story. Sweet Treason is a well thought out story with a lot of layers and is important to keep track of those layers. So, if you like a historical romance with a bit of intrigue, you might enjoy Sweet Treason.

Copy provided by publisher.

[Zara Hoffman · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed by this book. The description for the book is what hooked me, but the story telling fell short.

Let me explain.

I loved Emily and Ryan. Both characters were strong, witty, and just all around wonderful. Their interactions were also great (save the overused joke of Emily changing Ryan's last name SUTTON).

My issues were more with the secondary characters (especially those in London, all the gentlemen and ladies save Ryan's friend Devaux, who was a very nice man). Certain subplots especially the one concerning Ryan's spiteful ex-lover seemed insignificant, but more than that, they weren't always seen through to resolution/closure. I also felt that the villains (can't say who, or I'll spoil the book) felt flat and predictable.

I will say, however, that the world was described extremely well, and the characters who I did like (Emily, Ryan, Lucy, and Devaux) were all colorful and fun to read.

I received an eARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Nevins has enough problems of her own; she doesn’t need a Colonist spy hiding out at her English home to complicate things further. Ryan Sutton is from the colony of Virginia and in England under the pretense that he is visiting his Uncle, however, truth be told his is spying for the Revolutionist back home. Emily and Ryan soon learn that their web of lies is falling apart and a heavy price will be paid because of it.

A wonderful read I was instantly carried away to another time and place the characters and intrigue easily drew me in. The characters are funny and highly entertaining and the plot keeps you guessing at each turn and the sexual tension between Ryan and Emily is very hot. Most books about the American Revolution take place in America, I loved that we got to get a sense of the things that may have been happening in England during that time. Enjoy.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for and honest review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing and definitely sucks you in! Very well written and the flow of the story has great rhythm with all the unseen twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down because I just had to know what would happen next. The characters grab you and you feel like you have known them for years.
The story itself reminds you that war has two sides to it. The author did a wonderful job of not pushing one side over another. You can feel for the character’s cause and she leaves you wondering the whole book how they can end up together when on opposite sides! Secrets and bad guys are hiding everywhere. This is a very action packed, well written story that I highly recommend.

[Cathy Skendrovich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting with the book cover, I knew I wanted to read this book. I'm so glad I did. I love the Colonial time period, though this story was set in England. The first meeting between the hero and heroine was stellar, as was the setting. Perfectly set the mood of the story. The plot was fast paced, the characters likeable with good chemistry. Some subplots could have been left out, but they did add a sense of intrigue to the whole story. The villain could not be guessed till the end, which is always a plus, lol. A thoroughly entertaining read. I will definitely look up more of Ms.Ranstrom's books.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great read. There is danger and adventure from beginning until the very last page. I love that the heroin saves the day and rescues the hero.

The build up of the relationship of Emily and Ryan allows you to truly get to know them and fall in love with them. They build their trust and passion with each other before they finally get together.

Although both Emily and Ryan have a great deal of stress and secrets to deal with, neither one complains excessively. They do what they have to do to keep the people the love safe.

[Diana Gould · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book - this is a new author for me and was very pleased with the strong main characters and the storyline. It had a few twists, surprises and romance.

Ryan is an American spy in England working with a network to send information concerning the war back to America. Emily will do anything to help her sister and save their home Oak Hill, including smuggling. Secrets, lies and love - a fun, entertaining combination.

It will keep you guessing until the very end.

I received an eARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book! Ryan and Emily's characters were well thought out and their interaction don't make me want to cringe unlike other historical romances I have read. I didn't feel the story was lacking at all and can't wait to read more from Gail Ranstrom. I would love to read more about some of the other characters, Emily's sister in particular.

I received an eARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Gisela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! Very well written with a plot that pulls you in and will not let you go until the last page! Serious danger of whiplash from all the curve balls it keep throwing at you!!! Can help but admire Emily: that was not an easy time to live in for a unmarried woman.

eARC provided by author for an honest review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Treason was a sweet indeed. I liked that Emily was strong, independent, loyal to a fault and ready to take on the world. When Emily and Ryan were at cross purposes I sat on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed the history in the telling of this love story. I look forward to reading Ms. Ranstrom's next endeavor.

[Dede · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am so sorry but i can not read the whole book.Why?Because it`s boring me.
When i read the description i was so happy to read it,but when i start to read it i was disappointed.I reaceive this for a honest review and this is it.This is my opinion,maybe someone else will enjoy this.

[Beckey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review can be seen on my blog...http://inthepagesofagoodbook.com/2013...

[LaGina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes I need a break from my vamps and nothing beats spy's in the American Revolutionary War. It was a wonderful read and I can't wait to read more from this author.