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Brethren of the Coast #2
My Lady, The Spy
Book Two in the Brethren of the Coast series.
Can the mind forget what the eyes have seen?
L’araignee, The Spider, is England’s most notorious spy—and Lady Rebecca Wentworth’s alter ego. After her partner in espionage is killed in the line of duty, Rebecca returns to London, only to discover a traitor has compromised the war effort from the highest levels of the vaunted Counterintelligence Corps. To lure the villain into the open, Rebecca embarks on a new mission, acting as prey for a dangerous enemy. But it is the handsome former Navy captain tasked with her safety that presents the greatest threat, when she falls in love. Can Rebecca trade her cloak of office for an ermine-collared pelisse, her trusty dagger for opera glasses, and shed the underworld of espionage to claim the future she desperately desires?
When Nautionnier Knight Dirk Randolph is sent to evacuate spies from the Continent, he is shocked to find a beautiful noblewoman in service to the Crown. A no-nonsense man accustomed to a ruthlessly ordered life, his world is upended when he is paired with the intriguing operative and must act the part of smitten suitor. While he protects the fascinating agent provocateur, he does not guard his heart. But can he accept that his ladylove and the spy exist as two sides of the same coin?
Can the mind forget what the eyes have seen?
L’araignee, The Spider, is England’s most notorious spy—and Lady Rebecca Wentworth’s alter ego. After her partner in espionage is killed in the line of duty, Rebecca returns to London, only to discover a traitor has compromised the war effort from the highest levels of the vaunted Counterintelligence Corps. To lure the villain into the open, Rebecca embarks on a new mission, acting as prey for a dangerous enemy. But it is the handsome former Navy captain tasked with her safety that presents the greatest threat, when she falls in love. Can Rebecca trade her cloak of office for an ermine-collared pelisse, her trusty dagger for opera glasses, and shed the underworld of espionage to claim the future she desperately desires?
When Nautionnier Knight Dirk Randolph is sent to evacuate spies from the Continent, he is shocked to find a beautiful noblewoman in service to the Crown. A no-nonsense man accustomed to a ruthlessly ordered life, his world is upended when he is paired with the intriguing operative and must act the part of smitten suitor. While he protects the fascinating agent provocateur, he does not guard his heart. But can he accept that his ladylove and the spy exist as two sides of the same coin?
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2013
98 people are currently reading
584 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Devlin
53 books517 followersBarbara Devlin was born a storyteller. A Texan, through and through, Barbara hasn’t been without a book in her possession since she was in kindergarten. She wrote her first short story, a really cheesy murder-mystery, in high school, but it was a Christmas gift, a lovely little diary with a bronze lock, given to her in the fifth grade that truly inspired her love for writing.
After completing part of her undergraduate studies at the University of London, Barbara returned home and began a career in banking. But the late 80’s weren’t too promising for the financial industry, and every bank that hired Barbara soon folded. So she searched for a stable occupation, and the local police department offered the answer to her prayers.
Initially, Barbara wasn’t too sure about her new chosen career in law enforcement, but she soon came to love being a police officer. However, on an uncharacteristically cold and icy day in December 1998, Barbara was struck by a car and pinned against a guardrail while working an accident on a major highway. Permanently disabled, she retired from the police department and devoted her time and energy to physical therapy.
Once Barbara got back on her feet, she focused on a new career in academia. She earned an MA in English, continued on a course of study for a Doctorate in Literature and Rhetoric, started writing historical fiction in her spare time, and completed five full-length novels featuring her fictional knighthood, the Brethren of the Coast. Book six is currently in the works.
After completing part of her undergraduate studies at the University of London, Barbara returned home and began a career in banking. But the late 80’s weren’t too promising for the financial industry, and every bank that hired Barbara soon folded. So she searched for a stable occupation, and the local police department offered the answer to her prayers.
Initially, Barbara wasn’t too sure about her new chosen career in law enforcement, but she soon came to love being a police officer. However, on an uncharacteristically cold and icy day in December 1998, Barbara was struck by a car and pinned against a guardrail while working an accident on a major highway. Permanently disabled, she retired from the police department and devoted her time and energy to physical therapy.
Once Barbara got back on her feet, she focused on a new career in academia. She earned an MA in English, continued on a course of study for a Doctorate in Literature and Rhetoric, started writing historical fiction in her spare time, and completed five full-length novels featuring her fictional knighthood, the Brethren of the Coast. Book six is currently in the works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 29, 2016
I was considering giving this book 4.5-5 stars, but after I thought about it, I decided to go with 4 stars. It is a very good book and the writing is great, but there were a few things that just diminished the book for me, which I will address at the end of my review.
Lady Rebecca Wentworth is a spy for the crown. She has just lost her partner and is on the run for her life. Dirk, Viscount Wainsbrough has been tasked by the Brethren to see her safely back to England.
When these two meet, the chemistry is undeniable. Dirk is shocked to learn that Rebecca is the infamous L'araignee and Rebecca is shocked to discover that she is attracted to the overly serious captain.
When they return to England, Sir Ross Logan suggests that Dirk pretend to court Rebecca in order to help uncover the traitor. And what begins as an act soon becomes the real thing.
Dirk and Rebecca have a long and heartbreaking road to their HEA, but what an amazing journey it is! Ms. Devlin does not shy away from ugly realities - she doesn't insult her readers with unbelievable plot twists where everything comes up roses. She tells an honest tale that while it is heartbreaking is more realistic and makes the final ending so much more satisfying.
The reasons I didn't give this book a higher rating are all personal - there is nothing amiss with the story line or the writing. My first complaint is one I have with many authors - the incorrect use of formal address, Lady Rebecca is constantly referred to as Lady Wentworth - NO! NO! NO! as the daughter of an Earl she has an honorific title of Lady Rebecca, NOT Lady Wentworth, the British do not use only the person's surname with an honorific they use the person's Christian name. Second, a little more research should have been done regarding divorce in 1812 England, until 1857 divorce was almost unheard of, it was expensive, took years and required an act of parliament to attain, not to mention that divorce would socially ruin both parties and their families. Finally, Benedict Arnold was NOT a traitor to England - he was a traitor to America. My English mother considers the man a hero and a patriot. To have Sir Ross say that we need to uncover our Benedict Arnold is ridiculous and grossly inaccurate.
As I said, these are all personal pet peeves of mine and probably won't bother most readers. I would happily recommend this book and look forward to reading the rest of this series!
Lady Rebecca Wentworth is a spy for the crown. She has just lost her partner and is on the run for her life. Dirk, Viscount Wainsbrough has been tasked by the Brethren to see her safely back to England.
When these two meet, the chemistry is undeniable. Dirk is shocked to learn that Rebecca is the infamous L'araignee and Rebecca is shocked to discover that she is attracted to the overly serious captain.
When they return to England, Sir Ross Logan suggests that Dirk pretend to court Rebecca in order to help uncover the traitor. And what begins as an act soon becomes the real thing.
Dirk and Rebecca have a long and heartbreaking road to their HEA, but what an amazing journey it is! Ms. Devlin does not shy away from ugly realities - she doesn't insult her readers with unbelievable plot twists where everything comes up roses. She tells an honest tale that while it is heartbreaking is more realistic and makes the final ending so much more satisfying.
The reasons I didn't give this book a higher rating are all personal - there is nothing amiss with the story line or the writing. My first complaint is one I have with many authors - the incorrect use of formal address, Lady Rebecca is constantly referred to as Lady Wentworth - NO! NO! NO! as the daughter of an Earl she has an honorific title of Lady Rebecca, NOT Lady Wentworth, the British do not use only the person's surname with an honorific they use the person's Christian name. Second, a little more research should have been done regarding divorce in 1812 England, until 1857 divorce was almost unheard of, it was expensive, took years and required an act of parliament to attain, not to mention that divorce would socially ruin both parties and their families. Finally, Benedict Arnold was NOT a traitor to England - he was a traitor to America. My English mother considers the man a hero and a patriot. To have Sir Ross say that we need to uncover our Benedict Arnold is ridiculous and grossly inaccurate.
As I said, these are all personal pet peeves of mine and probably won't bother most readers. I would happily recommend this book and look forward to reading the rest of this series!
January 17, 2019
My Lady, the Spy is a spy romance but the spy is none other than Lady Rebecca. After her partner is killed in action, she returns to life in London. But when a traitor has compromised England's war effort, Rebecca must play fly to a very dangerous spider. That's nothing compared to falling in love with a former Navy captain. Can Rebecca thrust off her spy mandle and embrace a quiet life of solitude?
I love spy romances and this one is such a fabulous read. I love that the spy is a woman. Action, adventure and romance all combine to make this a must-read!
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
I love spy romances and this one is such a fabulous read. I love that the spy is a woman. Action, adventure and romance all combine to make this a must-read!
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
April 1, 2015
I was thrilled to find this second story about the The brethren, the descendants of the Templars. The story is fine as a stand-alone, with a few flashbacks, but the hero ( a Brethren/nobleman) and heroine (a spy) had twists and turns and enough romance to keep me reading until the end. I cannot wait to read about the other members of The Brethren and the women in their lives.
January 5, 2016
This book did not disappoint. It holds the reader's attention. I very much enjoyed the characters. Dirk and Rebecca made quite the couple. An update on Trevor and Caroline was an added bonus. I am looking forward to book #3.
August 22, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars A unforgettable read, August 22, 2014
By Bambi "Bambi"
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This review is from: My Lady, The Spy (Brethren of the Coast Book 2) (Kindle Edition)
Oh this book is great the humor spy and intrigue keep me hooked from beginning to end.
This book starts off with or spy caught in a flight to be rescued. Her friend and protected dead, and the enemy fast on her heels. How can the mysterious L'araignee (the spider) escape and get home to England?
Ship captain Dirk Randolph Viscount Wainsbrough waits for the signal to rescue his friend and Brethren brother,Collin and his mystery partner. When only one small figure steps aboard he know what has happened. When he step close to his countryman he see's the sad velvety brown eyes.
Lady Rebecca Wentworth (Lord Calvert sister) was now headed home into unknown people were after her and she had to find the spy that was giving out information to the french. Once reaching the Ministry of Defense a plan is form to catch the spy and keep Rebecca safe.
With Dirk her protector and the Brethren keeping eye's on every the Session in London she never had is about to happen.
Dirk the most Virtuous of the group and ethical beyond reason how will he handle having this beautiful spy in his life? Every time he goes near her he says and does the wrong things but that what happens when "His Jolly Roger had taken on a life of it's own."
In this game of hearts spies life and death how will they make it?
Will Dirk and his brethren be able to keep Rebecca safe?
Will Rebecca decide that Dirk is worth giving up being a spy or will duty to the Corps and Crown get the better of them?
This is a awesome book and I can not wait to read the next in this wonderful series i am just sad at my self it took me so long to get to reading. You will truly not be disappointed in it and the plot and story are a great combination. The characters in this story are witty and mischievous a real delight. I haven't read a English spy book i enjoyed as much in years.....
By Bambi "Bambi"
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Delete Review
This review is from: My Lady, The Spy (Brethren of the Coast Book 2) (Kindle Edition)
Oh this book is great the humor spy and intrigue keep me hooked from beginning to end.
This book starts off with or spy caught in a flight to be rescued. Her friend and protected dead, and the enemy fast on her heels. How can the mysterious L'araignee (the spider) escape and get home to England?
Ship captain Dirk Randolph Viscount Wainsbrough waits for the signal to rescue his friend and Brethren brother,Collin and his mystery partner. When only one small figure steps aboard he know what has happened. When he step close to his countryman he see's the sad velvety brown eyes.
Lady Rebecca Wentworth (Lord Calvert sister) was now headed home into unknown people were after her and she had to find the spy that was giving out information to the french. Once reaching the Ministry of Defense a plan is form to catch the spy and keep Rebecca safe.
With Dirk her protector and the Brethren keeping eye's on every the Session in London she never had is about to happen.
Dirk the most Virtuous of the group and ethical beyond reason how will he handle having this beautiful spy in his life? Every time he goes near her he says and does the wrong things but that what happens when "His Jolly Roger had taken on a life of it's own."
In this game of hearts spies life and death how will they make it?
Will Dirk and his brethren be able to keep Rebecca safe?
Will Rebecca decide that Dirk is worth giving up being a spy or will duty to the Corps and Crown get the better of them?
This is a awesome book and I can not wait to read the next in this wonderful series i am just sad at my self it took me so long to get to reading. You will truly not be disappointed in it and the plot and story are a great combination. The characters in this story are witty and mischievous a real delight. I haven't read a English spy book i enjoyed as much in years.....
June 15, 2015
This was a really different story for me. Rebecca is a very uncommon woman in that she is a spy in the war between the English and French. Rebecca is a hard, and stubborn woman and this sets up some very tough events to read through. I cannot say that any of the writing was horribly graphic but it was emotional. You will need your kleenex at the climax of the story.
Dirk is a fine gentleman, and terribly underestimated by everyone as to his personality. Rebecca awakens in him a passionate man beneath his logic and orderliness. Dirk can be a gentle man but when his beloved is threatened he is as hard as a sharpened dagger.
This is the second book in the Brethren of the Coast series. More is learned about the brothers, their wives, the family that they are. They are strong, loyal, caring, and some are a bit quirky.
I am so glad I have the six books written so far. I am loathe to leave this world, this family behind.
Dirk is a fine gentleman, and terribly underestimated by everyone as to his personality. Rebecca awakens in him a passionate man beneath his logic and orderliness. Dirk can be a gentle man but when his beloved is threatened he is as hard as a sharpened dagger.
This is the second book in the Brethren of the Coast series. More is learned about the brothers, their wives, the family that they are. They are strong, loyal, caring, and some are a bit quirky.
I am so glad I have the six books written so far. I am loathe to leave this world, this family behind.
November 29, 2016
This is the fourth book I've read in the Brethren series, and so far, my least favorite. The writing is pretty good, but I got a bit bored with the plot and how it eventually played out. It's one I've read many times with different names, places and a few tweaks, but old just the same. I won't go onto detail so as not to spoil it for others, but I felt it was predictable and stale. Another thing that bothers me, and it's a very minor thing....men don't usually swoon. I just cannot visualize a big, macho stallion of maleness swooning, yet the term is used numerous times in describing the hero. I enjoyed some parts of the book, but not enough that I would think to recommend to a friend. The others I've read in this series by the author are way better.
March 31, 2015
a perfect second installment
The saga continues and Ms. delving does an excellent job of bringing a new story to her cast of characters without making you feel betrayed by the loss of our initial hero and heroine. They are still with us, as are the others, but theirs is now a sideline story with the highlight on another set of star crossed lovers.
The characters are well developed, and the story moves at a quick pace that will keep you interested. While we know the outcome, of course, it is after all a romance, we still care to share their journey and struggles.
I'm anxious to jump into the next saga.
The saga continues and Ms. delving does an excellent job of bringing a new story to her cast of characters without making you feel betrayed by the loss of our initial hero and heroine. They are still with us, as are the others, but theirs is now a sideline story with the highlight on another set of star crossed lovers.
The characters are well developed, and the story moves at a quick pace that will keep you interested. While we know the outcome, of course, it is after all a romance, we still care to share their journey and struggles.
I'm anxious to jump into the next saga.
January 21, 2015
I had to fight with distractions for this one, not the novel's fault, just the way things panned out. But about 30% through I finally managed to find the time to just sit and read. Oh it was so worth it, it was uplifting, and heartbreaking. I read through tears and smiled in happiness while immersed in the story. I cannot wait for the next in the series.
April 5, 2015
very well written
This was the first book I've read from this author, & I may venture to read more. I wish there had been less sex, but all in all, it was a good way to waste a Sunday.
This was the first book I've read from this author, & I may venture to read more. I wish there had been less sex, but all in all, it was a good way to waste a Sunday.
July 20, 2015
Couldn't put it down!!!
Dirk and Rebecca had such good chemistry. I really felt like I was a fly on the wall or wherever they were. Plus, kept me guessing the entire book. LOVED how Trevor and Caroline made an appearance too to keep the series going......the plot continues!!!!
Dirk and Rebecca had such good chemistry. I really felt like I was a fly on the wall or wherever they were. Plus, kept me guessing the entire book. LOVED how Trevor and Caroline made an appearance too to keep the series going......the plot continues!!!!
July 23, 2015
I liked this book. It was different from what I am used too. But I really enjoyed the story. I can't wait to read the next book
Hurricane readers book reviews gave me this book for a honest review
Hurricane readers book reviews gave me this book for a honest review
December 17, 2015
I've always wondered what happened to survivors of Knight Templars. Though fiction this is view several generations later. Excellent book.
July 24, 2015
Great reading.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was hard to put down as I looked forward to the continuing exciting part of the story.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was hard to put down as I looked forward to the continuing exciting part of the story.
August 16, 2015
I received this book from the author for an honest review! I don't usually like historical romance! But I totally loved this book! Great story and great characters!
April 1, 2015
This was a fun read. The story was engaging and Rebecca was a great character.
April 9, 2015
She is a spy. He is determined to protect her. There is a traitor tracking her.
January 28, 2016
OUTSTANDING!!!
May 2, 2018
I would have given it 4 stars if not for the insult to history, the genre and to the reader. I can not fault the story line it is actually quite a good concept. But the editing flaws and the lack of research present such obvious disrespect to the Regency period. The use of contemporary words and phrases that belong to the present and used in the present day context totally diminished the entertainment value of the story for me and even distorted history. Words or phrases like: 'tad' (1940's meaning small child or tadpole even) 'issue' (means children or offspring during the Regency timeline) 'counterintelligence' (1935~1940 etymology also conjures visions of the Cold War) 'national defense' 'national security' (after WWII 1945 planes and the atom bomb did not exist then in 1812 and we have terrorism, suicide bombers, 9/11, WMDs... in our present) 'on the same page' (no TV to proliferate language evolution and current zeitgeist) 'socialite' (1928 etymology coined by TIME magazine a US not British publication) ~ I was pretty much annoyed from swinging from one timeline to another and wondering if this is a fantasy even. May I suggest to the author that she imagines herself tasked in writing a screenplay adaptation of one of Jane Austen's novels or maybe even Tolstoy's 'War and Peace'? Just to get herself into the proper historical timeline?
August 28, 2018
A book with everything.
5 stars, more if I could. This is one of the best books I have ever read. It started like a runaway train and continued that way till end. At times, it took my breath. It had everything in spades. It has mystery, intrigue, humor, secrets, very tender, love scenes, and adventure that took my breath away. I could not put it down. Something happening on every page, that kept you guessing till very end. A hero so honorable, kind, tender, and protective that I fell in love with. A heroine, brave, honorable, loyal, loving, but could be a real kick butt. She went through so much, I was surprised she survived and remained sane. It was full of wonderful characters, but the cruelest villain, that I couldn’t identify till the end. It ended in which I was relieved, but sad to see it end HEA. I highly recommend, as I do all the author’s books. Can’t wait to start her next book.
5 stars, more if I could. This is one of the best books I have ever read. It started like a runaway train and continued that way till end. At times, it took my breath. It had everything in spades. It has mystery, intrigue, humor, secrets, very tender, love scenes, and adventure that took my breath away. I could not put it down. Something happening on every page, that kept you guessing till very end. A hero so honorable, kind, tender, and protective that I fell in love with. A heroine, brave, honorable, loyal, loving, but could be a real kick butt. She went through so much, I was surprised she survived and remained sane. It was full of wonderful characters, but the cruelest villain, that I couldn’t identify till the end. It ended in which I was relieved, but sad to see it end HEA. I highly recommend, as I do all the author’s books. Can’t wait to start her next book.
August 10, 2018
3.5 stars. The novel wasn’t bad but it was a bit boring for me. The heroine being a spy was a promising start but I found that for everything she had endured in the past, I would have expected that she would have been a little more interesting through out the story. The chemistry between the main characters was a little flat too. Maybe I am comparing this novel to the first in the series which was much better in my opinion. I’m going to read the next book in the series because I’ve been waiting for Everette’s story since the start.
January 17, 2023
So good, I cried
I am glad I bought this book. I'm going to read it again. Any book that can bring me to laughter and tears within it's pages, is a book worth revisiting again in the future.
I started with the brethren ancestor series and that series also brought me to tears and laughter. Its books were, in my opinion, too short.
I plan on reading all of Barbara Devlin's books ANF highly recommend both Brethren's series.
I am glad I bought this book. I'm going to read it again. Any book that can bring me to laughter and tears within it's pages, is a book worth revisiting again in the future.
I started with the brethren ancestor series and that series also brought me to tears and laughter. Its books were, in my opinion, too short.
I plan on reading all of Barbara Devlin's books ANF highly recommend both Brethren's series.
December 1, 2019
I have to admit this was quite adorable with our heroine a female spy for England against Napoleon Bonapart. I had to skim a bit towards the end when they were torturing her-- but this book was fun, romantic and filled with all sorts of action and adventure and I look forward to reading other books in the series!
March 25, 2020
MIGHT BE MY FAVORITE BRETHREN NOVEL YET
Enthralling! I read parts of the book with one eye shut, fearing I would read what I didn't want to happen. Then it did. When I got to the end I wished there was more, it was just that good. I think I've read every book in this series but this is definitely my favorite, until the next one! 😁
Enthralling! I read parts of the book with one eye shut, fearing I would read what I didn't want to happen. Then it did. When I got to the end I wished there was more, it was just that good. I think I've read every book in this series but this is definitely my favorite, until the next one! 😁
August 22, 2017
Exciting and a little sad
So many struggle with the effects of war. A beautiful woman wants to avenge the deaths of her parents and still find a future of her own. And the Brethren are there to help it happen.
So many struggle with the effects of war. A beautiful woman wants to avenge the deaths of her parents and still find a future of her own. And the Brethren are there to help it happen.
August 23, 2018
Just as good as the first!
This was a bit more risqué due to our lead lady being a spy. Story was just as good and I couldn’t figure out who the villain was till the end. Can’t wait to read the next one!
This was a bit more risqué due to our lead lady being a spy. Story was just as good and I couldn’t figure out who the villain was till the end. Can’t wait to read the next one!
February 10, 2017
Great story
I so enjoyed reading this book. It is full of intrigue, mystery and wondering who the bad guy is! Looking forward to reading the rest of the Brethren of the Coast books.
I so enjoyed reading this book. It is full of intrigue, mystery and wondering who the bad guy is! Looking forward to reading the rest of the Brethren of the Coast books.
October 26, 2019
I'm so into the series. Wonderful characters. Moving story lines.
January 27, 2014
Apparently, my “fan girl” kicks in at book two. If I read and adore the first book, and then read and adore the second book, then I’m fan girl from here on. (Just ask poor Diantha Jones.) So, I guess this means I’m now going fan girl on Barbara Devlin. (You should send her your condolences. I’m impossible to get rid of.)
Okay! So!
First off, I liked the premise. I love good, strong female characters, and a female spy in an early nineteenth century setting was one that I loved. I also have a Thing for the stoic and sorrowing characters, which Rebecca is described as from early on.
And the great way that Devlin has with “familiar banter” is there in full force with this book, especially with her wonderfully drawn female characters who are both epitomes of and contrasts to your usual images of women of their day and place. And our little nods to the first book were awesome. I love that stuff.
There were a few touches to the courtship of Rebecca and Dirk that felt just a tad familiar to Trevor and Caroline of “Enter the Brethren,” but never enough to pull me from the story, and I also realized that these were the things that helped the book move as a romance without resorting to the stupid Try-Fails that I loathe in many other romance novels. And in not doing those stupid things, Devlin treats neither her characters nor her readers as idiots.
I always appreciate not being treated like a moron. Gotta say.
Honestly, I was tearing up a little at the end. I found it a very strong climactic sequence, even if I knew a little part of what was coming. There is a message of acceptance to this story: accepting yourself, and accepting those you love, without condition. And I really, really liked that.
Also? The Jolly Roger and “God Save the King” stuff had me giggling every time. Want to know what the joke was? Go read the book! Seriously!
5 Fireballs. (Come on, you saw that one coming.)
Okay! So!
First off, I liked the premise. I love good, strong female characters, and a female spy in an early nineteenth century setting was one that I loved. I also have a Thing for the stoic and sorrowing characters, which Rebecca is described as from early on.
And the great way that Devlin has with “familiar banter” is there in full force with this book, especially with her wonderfully drawn female characters who are both epitomes of and contrasts to your usual images of women of their day and place. And our little nods to the first book were awesome. I love that stuff.
There were a few touches to the courtship of Rebecca and Dirk that felt just a tad familiar to Trevor and Caroline of “Enter the Brethren,” but never enough to pull me from the story, and I also realized that these were the things that helped the book move as a romance without resorting to the stupid Try-Fails that I loathe in many other romance novels. And in not doing those stupid things, Devlin treats neither her characters nor her readers as idiots.
I always appreciate not being treated like a moron. Gotta say.
Honestly, I was tearing up a little at the end. I found it a very strong climactic sequence, even if I knew a little part of what was coming. There is a message of acceptance to this story: accepting yourself, and accepting those you love, without condition. And I really, really liked that.
Also? The Jolly Roger and “God Save the King” stuff had me giggling every time. Want to know what the joke was? Go read the book! Seriously!
5 Fireballs. (Come on, you saw that one coming.)
August 26, 2014
5 Fangs - Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock
I received this book free from the author and Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock for an honest review.
L'araignee, The Spider, a British spy for the Crown, finds her partner, Colin, murdered in France and escapes onto a ship at a pre-arranged meeting place. Captain Dirk Randolph awaits his friend Colin and Colin's partner aboard this ship. Of course, only one person boards the ship, and Dirk is astonished to find the notorious British spy, L'araignee, is a woman, Lady Rebecca Wentworth. Once back in England, a trap is set to find the traitor who killed Colin. Dirk will pretend to be courting Rebecca, and the dance they do through the ballrooms of England is masterfully written. The dance they do in private is just as good. With the help of Dirk's fellow Brethren, several traps are set to catch the spy to little avail. While this is going on, Dirk finds himself distracted by his attraction to Rebecca, and Rebecca is suddenly wondering if there is life after being a spy for the Crown. Dirk has trouble reconciling the woman with the spy and, in typically arrogant fashion, tries to control every situation. Rebecca, being nobody's standard "little woman" but a strong, independent character tries to plot her own course. The humorous interactions between the main and supporting characters in this book had me laughing out loud. I loved each and every one of them. They almost make you forget that Rebecca's life is in danger...almost. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a quality historical romance, with the added bonus of suspense and hilarity. With this book being so well-written, the ease of reading it was delightful as the story. I will definitely be reading more of this series by Barbara Devlin. I can't wait to see what the rest of the Brethern of Coast brothers are up to.
I received this book free from the author and Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock for an honest review.
L'araignee, The Spider, a British spy for the Crown, finds her partner, Colin, murdered in France and escapes onto a ship at a pre-arranged meeting place. Captain Dirk Randolph awaits his friend Colin and Colin's partner aboard this ship. Of course, only one person boards the ship, and Dirk is astonished to find the notorious British spy, L'araignee, is a woman, Lady Rebecca Wentworth. Once back in England, a trap is set to find the traitor who killed Colin. Dirk will pretend to be courting Rebecca, and the dance they do through the ballrooms of England is masterfully written. The dance they do in private is just as good. With the help of Dirk's fellow Brethren, several traps are set to catch the spy to little avail. While this is going on, Dirk finds himself distracted by his attraction to Rebecca, and Rebecca is suddenly wondering if there is life after being a spy for the Crown. Dirk has trouble reconciling the woman with the spy and, in typically arrogant fashion, tries to control every situation. Rebecca, being nobody's standard "little woman" but a strong, independent character tries to plot her own course. The humorous interactions between the main and supporting characters in this book had me laughing out loud. I loved each and every one of them. They almost make you forget that Rebecca's life is in danger...almost. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a quality historical romance, with the added bonus of suspense and hilarity. With this book being so well-written, the ease of reading it was delightful as the story. I will definitely be reading more of this series by Barbara Devlin. I can't wait to see what the rest of the Brethern of Coast brothers are up to.
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