Racing with the Wind

Agents of the Crown #1

by Regan Walker

London 1816

Hugh Redgrave, Marquess of Ormond, the only son of the Duke of Albany, hides his true identity as the legendary Nighthawk—the thief of Napoleon's most valued secrets—behind his life as a horseman and a rake. Returning to England after years in France, he knows he must choose a wife from among the ingénues who appear each year at the ton, but he hopes to avoid what will be an arranged marriage for as long as he can. He prefers his work for the Crown.

When young Lady Mary Campbell rides across his path on a magnificent black stallion, he is enthralled. Independent, intelligent and rebellious, Lady Mary is bored by the prospect of her first Season. A bluestocking hoyden, she craves adventure and loves the world of her statesman uncle, who is often called upon by the Crown for difficult tasks. When her uncle leaves for Paris, she goes with him. But, once there, who should appear in King Louis’ court but the mysterious Lord Ormond?

Lady Mary fears her growing fascination with the rake and resents his interference with her plan to uncover the truth behind a treacherous plot to take down the newly restored Bourbon king.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Regency, Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance, British Literature

312 pages, Paperback

First published July 23, 2012

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]

This was a wonderfully written love story.
There's an enjoyable amount of historical detail in this book and
it is filled with steamy, good written love scenes, I so enjoyed Ms.Walker's characters .
Her characters are strong and believable.
I love Paris and she beautifully described Paris of the time.
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end and recommend
it to all lovers of historical romance...

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Mary Campbell has no desire to have a coming out but knows she must finally do so after delaying it for a few years to please her mother. At the ball, no one really captures her attention, as her attention is drawn to more un-ladylike pursuits, riding astride, helping her uncle with spy work and the like. She has no interest in marrying and having a chance at losing the one she loves, as she lost her father so many years ago. Yet one man manages to grab her attention with his dashing good looks and they share a smoldering kiss. Hugh Redgrave, Marquess of Ormond, knows his mother wants him to settle down and marry but he has no desire to do that after suffering a traumatic loss as a child. Once he sees the lovely Mary flying on her beloved black stallion, he thoughts adjust and as they spend more and more time together, he starts to think that Mary could be the one to finally make him want to settle down. However, her love for adventure, and in the process-danger, sets him on edge especially with his work work as an undercover agent. Can this headstrong, bold woman and this dashing rogue bent on protection find a way to compromise their interests to discover a deep, lasting love?

I have read quite a few debuts this year and each one has been a hit for me and I can add Racing with the Wind to that list now as well! I always enjoy stories where the heroine is a bit unique and in this case Mary is headstrong, outspoken, intelligent and determined with her desires to wear mens clothing to ride astride and desire to aid her uncle and country with undercover work. When Mary unknowingly stumbles into a dangerous mission in Paris, Hugh knows he must get her safely back to London. Convincing Mary to abandon her desires to aid her country almost prove deadly and she agrees to his plan. They travel from safe house to safe house and in the process, lose themselves in their passion. I really liked how Mary spoke her feelings, positive and negative, to Hugh as she felt them but Hugh was a bit closed off. It takes a dramatic ending for him to reveal his love and I wished he would have said them sooner, before the twists at the end. Hugh was strong, sensual and once he realized the depth of his feelings for Mary, nothing...and no one, including a vicomte or his own past, would stand in his way. Political intrigue is always hard for me as it just doesn't really interest me on a personal level but I did not feel overwhelmed at all in this story. There were wonderful tidbits of history sprinkled throughout and even some real life heros from the past make appearances and added to the story. I really enjoyed the attention to the fashion and felt like they were described in such a lovely manner, I could picture them in my mind. The attraction between Hugh and Mary is quick and the build up, with their sharp, quick dialogue and their hot kisses lead up to a beautiful, passionate relationship. This will surely please fans of action packed romances with a strong, determined couple not looking for love but when it finds them, they get swept off their feet. 4 stars

Review copy provided by the author, thank you!

[KyBunnies · Rating 1 out of 5]

Interesting book with a great story line however there was just something missing for me from this book. Don't get me wrong, this book is well written, and does not have any grammar or editing mistakes. I just could not connect with the storyline or the characters.
The book just did not have a historical romance feel in the plot. The lead female character, Lady Mary seemed like someone from modern times and placed in Regency England. Everyone loves this female and she does not have any rivals. No one has any fault with what she does or her talk about subjects that females do not talk about during this era. I love reading about strong female characters, but no matter how strong or independent everyone has either a rival or someone that does not like them.
During the beginning of the book, the female is in a man's bedroom after he tries to help someone from being hurt. This is understandable, however for the male to not be wearing a shirt and the female be allowed to touch and bind his ribs just does not sound like Regency England. There are people in the room, older adults, and no one finds anything wrong with Lady Mary being in the room.
Granted I am sure during that era just like today lots of families over looked female behavior and allowed them whatever they wanted. However no female or man is knowledgeable in every aspect of life. Lady Mary was knowledgeable in everything. To me the book read like Lady Mary was a super human without any faults.
I can understand Lady Mary enthralled Lord Osmond. However, it seemed like no matter what he never found fault with her actions. It seemed like Lady Mary did not have to fae the consequence of any actions.
Now, I did like the writing style of this author. I love reading historical romance. To me personally this would be a great book if the author allowed the female to have some faults. No one is perfect including fictional characters.
I was gifted with this book as part of the VBT. My opinions are my own and your opinions will differ from mine. To support this author please purchase this book and form your own opinion.

[Goblin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review posted originally at: Once Upon A Book


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

Oh my, I have to admit right now that when this book came into our inbox here at Once Upon A Book I was absolutely captivated with the idea of a fantastic Napoleonic/Regency espionage story and snatched it up right away. Oh, the possibilities! Regency period novels are one of my favorite historical genres, next to medieval. What can I say, this titillating tale about a bold, rebellious, clever girl. And the smoldering, tall, dark and handsome man that would be her counter part had me ready to get reading! I honestly have to say that I was enthralled by this novel by the middle of the first chapter, and didn't look up until at least five am—where I now pause to type out this first impression. Unfortunately, I have completed the story but how I wish there was much more! I loved everything about "Racing The Wind", and I'm not ashamed to admit I believe I have been left with a little crush on Mary & Hugh.

Meet Mary, the impetuous daughter of her Father, the late Earl of Campbell, possesses a disinclination and lack of interest in the normal fripperies and refinements most of the girls in her age become engrossed in. She finds excitement in brashly sharing her views and following politics with a keen mind and intellect. Mary never wanted to be tethered by a man that would crush her spirit. But unlike so many other books, I actually believed it. And Hugh, the very image of tall-dark-and- handsome, with a dangerous streak and possessor of the alter ego of a French thief known as Nighthawk. He certainly appealed with his secret and oh so daring thieving-for-the-crown alter ego. I must commend Walker on her creation!

I so enjoyed Ms.Walker's characters! What wonderfully colorful personalities, with constructively informative pasts they had! Believe it or not, it seems there is a decided lack of character fleshing-out in many Romance novels nowadays. I've read many of these novels and hundreds of times simply found myself tossed into a story with characters that become paper cut-outs of themselves and boring due to a lack of sense for who they are, and what their motivations might be. Walker has managed to give the characters their due, and with that I found myself actually caring what happened to them as the action began to unfold. It was a great pleasure for this reader to be swept into the lives of this adventurous pair. The sensual interludes between Hugh and Mary were sizzling, and very "romance"-like, as they don't actually seal the deal until much later in the book. I loved the teasing, possessive kissing and the brief bread crumbs that were dropped before us throughout the story. Walker managed to bank the romance over time, in a way that seems most rare in recent authors. But perhaps that's because I was reared on earlier generations of romance novelists that were expert at such subtlety and I truly enjoyed seeing this skill emerge here. It made me long for more novels that slowly burn and then beg for release, it's what romance is meant to do.

There's an enjoyable amount of historical detail and attention that the author has applied here. Whether it be to historical politics about the Bourbon Restoration and the tension preluding its subsequent revolutions, and continued right down to the type of china that was being used. Appreciated by this reader as well was the "contemporary" nods to Jane Austen (I couldn't help but note most of the English ladies names were also names from Austen novels, but they were popular names of the period, and it could simply be coincidence. But if not, this reader cheers for a Mary, finally getting her due!). For a history buff like me, I found that I loved every moment and description that she managed to add without bogging the momentum of the book down. There's nothing that excites me more than to be able to acquire real history mixed in with a fun and exciting plot with romance tossed in for good measure!

I truly did enjoy this book. However, as much as I hate to be a downer. In spite the many accurate historical facts, I feel I have to make a few notes about some things I wondered about as I read. First off, the character Mary does seem written to fit an audience of our time period, which is probably why I liked her so much. She's strong, independent and given a great deal many luxuries that simply were not normally tolerated of women of that time period. There were certainly some cases of gross negligence when it came to her being chaperoned; at a particular house party, and a shameful glancing over and lack of concern of what would have probably been seen as quite the scandal. But since we aren't in Regency England, and I am a woman of the now, these minor things did not take anything away from the book for me. But other readers may feel differently, so it was worth a small mention.

Another thing that made me take pause was !(SPOILER)!; why wasn't there more thievery involved? Hugh was the Nighthawk, and the story opens with a nifty scene indeed. I was hoping that there'd be more of that, sneaky, stealthy, roguish stuff. At least another safe robbery or spies listening in the dark. But he wasn't a spy, he was a thief. Over all I just found myself wondering why even have the thievery skill there at all! At first it was something that greatly attracted me to the character, so I was a little sad as I kept reading that this wasn't actually an on-going and necessary skill. The rogue lover in me died a little that day.

And now to the final complaint on my list which may have irked me was this; Why wasn't this book called "The Nighthawk & The Swan"? For the life of me I cannot seem to keep the title, "Racing with the Wind" in my head, it fades so far back into my memory that I have to look it up each time, that is to spite how much I enjoyed it. This has to just be me and I'll probably forever personally refer to it as, "The Nighthawk & The Swan book, by that Author I really appreciated. I should see if she's written anything new lately!" Now if only I could turn back time, fix the recession and find one of her books at a Borders. Nothing sounds more wonderful than drinking a sumptuous coffee treat and being engrossed in the wonderful delight that was this book. (Oh, how I miss you Borders!)

Without further ado, I give this book a happy, sensual, smoldering 5 stars! I know a whole 5! What can I say I really loved this story. I do believe that I will definitely be keeping an eye out for Regan Walker's next books, I cannot wait to see what happens next in the Agents of The Crown series. And I sincerely hope that Elizabeth's and Lambeth's tale is told next, yes I do.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Racing with the Wind takes place in England and France. Napoleon (Boney) has been overthrown in France and Lady Mary’s uncle Adrian, Lord Baynes, is an integral part of the Prince Regent’s (Prinny’s) diplomatic force that travels abroad to ensure England’s place in world affairs. Lady Mary’s father died when she was a child and her uncle has been more of a father figure than an uncle. And she is more than interested in the political climate than she is in attending balls and galas in order to find a husband. She does give in and attends a gathering where Hugh Redgrave catches her eye, and she catches his. And, they both have reputations. She as a hellion who won’t be told what to do, and he as a rake.

Hugh, who also works for the Prince Regent, goes to see Lord Baynes and is fascinated to see a woman riding a black stallion astride and in breeches…… Lady Mary. Hugh meets with Lord Baynes and is invited to join then for lunch. When Mary enters the room, she is surprised to see Marquess Redgrave sitting at their table. They all make polite conversation, which grates on the Lady’s nerves, so she steers the conversation to politics. Hugh is totally taken aback to see that Lady Mary is very knowledgeable in the political climate of England and France and is even more surprised to learn that she has accompanied her uncle to Paris on a diplomatic mission and was actually involved. And, somehow, he knows his life will never be the same.

Once Lady Mary and her uncle Adrian arrive in France, she is caught up in political intrigue and the social scene in Paris. Unbeknownst to her, Hugh Redgrave is in Paris as well. Once she sees him, things start to happen quickly. Mary is instrumental in helping gather information against those that would want Napoleon reinstated as ruler of France. And Hugh is bound and determined to help keep Lady Mary safe. Little did he know what a job that would be.

This was a wonderfully written story. There is political intrigue, romance and a bit of mystery. The descriptions of England and France were refreshing and not overdone. And what a wonderful character Lady Mary was to read about. She was determined to be her own person in a time where that sort of thing was frowned upon, but she never wavered from her convictions. And Hugh Redgrave was the perfect companion for her.

I have to say that if it were left up to me to read this book based on the description, I probably would not have picked it. Thank God the author sent it and I had agreed to review it. The story is intriguing from the beginning and it only grows from there. There were times when I wasn’t sure who was the good guy and who was the bad guy and times when I could not turn the pages fast enough. This book grabbed me and didn’t let go. I loved this book so much that I contacted the author when I found out that it was book 1 in a trilogy and had to know when the next came out. She was very gracious and humored me. The next book in the trilogy, AGAINST THE WIND, should be out sometime around the end of this year, to be followed up by WIND RAVEN some time next year. The next books are definitely on my MUST READ list. I don’t really know what genre this series would fall in. Historical romance, mystery………… But I do know what category it falls in: GREAT READ!!!

You can read all of my reviews at www.thereadingcafe.com.

[Mary Willmont · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recently, I've become acquainted with Reagan Walker, a new author of historical romance. In Racing With the Wind, I encountered Lady Mary Campbell,who like the famous Scarlet O'Hara, didn't fit into the role expected of her as a young woman of society. In spite of how little room the dictates and expectations of her privileged class allowed her, Mary is able to express her individuality and to be adventurous and strong willed enough to resist being pushed into a mold she considered unacceptable. An interesting heroine, she also has a wild streak that makes her take risks.

Her resolve to be her own woman is tested to the max when she meets Hugh Redgrave, the Marquess of Ormond. Considered a rake by some, he is a man of mystery and intrigue who Mary finds irresistible. On the verge of having everything she dreamed of having with Hugh, her sense of honor forces her to give him up.

I'm impressed that a first time author of historical romance has accomplished such a high level of storytelling in addition to making the historical aspects within the story authentic. In doing so, she gives the reader an accurate picture of the customs, clothing, social structure and historical events of the time. Into the center of that, she creates a heroine with backbone and a resolve strong enough to hold out for what she wants in life. Walker then weaves a plot that keeps her readers guessing, thus creating a page turner I found difficult to put down. Last of all, she writes in a way that allowed me to feel what her heroine and hero feel, making their choices more believable and understandable--their doubts and weaknesses quite human. I can't wait to read the sequels.

[Amanda Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writing Fiction 101 says, "Start your novel with a grabber," and that is just what Regan Walker did in Racing with the Wind (Agents of the Crown) chapter one. In the first paragraph she hooked me with a scene reminiscent of The Scarlet Pimpernel and later A Tale of Two Cities. Racing with the Wind is a story of intrigue and romance set in early Nineteenth Century England and Post Napoleonic France, a period turbulent and lavish at the same time.
Walker lays an accurate historical foundation without belaboring the facts ad nauseum. She keeps the pace lively with engaging storyline, sprinkling the chapters with just the right amount of historical detail.
There was enough mystery intertwined with romance to make me think of the long forgotten novels of Mary Stewart (if you remember her, bravo!) and the plot held me especially since the romance was extremely engaging, and I was eager to learn about the time period with its colorful players.
Although I liked Lady Mary, Hugh Redgrave, the Marquess of Ormand was the character with whom I connected. He was dashing and dangerous, tough and clever yet Walker made him vulnerable enough to be believable. Because of Hugh Redgrave, I am eager to read the next in the series and sincerely hope we see more of Hugh's exploits as The Night Hawk.
There is no question that Regan Walker has done her homework before the completion of her debut novel. It is excellent. It is rich in historic detail, fast paced and filled with steamy love scenes. It is my sincere hope that she will release her second in the series before the year is out. We will be waiting.

[Icy-Cobwebs-Crossing-SpaceTime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewing for "Racing with the Wind" Blog tour-will post review after it appears on my blog, on Sept. 10 2012


Review of Racing with the Wind Book 1 Agents of the Crown Trilogy
Reviewed for Racing with the Wind Blog Tour for Sept. 10 2012
5 stars

A well-researched, enticing, and sensual novel of Regency England (and the European Continent) by author Regan Walker, “Racing with the Wind” immediately captures readers’ interest with the escapades of the legendary “Nighthawk” (is he a thief? A type of residential “highwayman”? a spy? Or-?) and next with the strong-willed heroine, Mary Campbell, a woman far ahead of her era in terms of her interests, her determination, and her will to persevere as herself rather than as a cookiecutter copycat of society.

Not only is the novel enjoyable as a story (the plot lines are neatly intertwined, giving espionage, royalty, romance, mystery, and a precursor of women’s movement towards autonomy), but additionally it is smoothly written, maintaining the reader’s devotion. The characters are well-delineated, both the heroine and hero, as well as the secondary characters, who are too good to be called just “secondary” but instead are an important part of the novel themselves.

Ms. Walker has performed an excellent work of research and of bringing the historical details-geographical, cultural, social, political, and more-to vibrant life. The reader will feel as if she is a present observer rather than just a reader.

[Sam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Regan Walker is one of those writers who is so dedicated to her historical research (let me see your research archives!!!), and so adept at presenting ages past in a way that's accessible and immersive to her modern-day readers, that reading one of her novels is like stepping through a rose-colored glass and finding yourself transported to the 18th, 19th, or even 12th century - albeit, a slightly cleaner version of those periods, but her novels are romances and real life, especially when it comes to the past, is not romantic.

This dedication to historical detail and world-building is evident in RwtW, and while I may not have enjoyed myself particularly while reading this, nor felt transported seamlessly, I have to admit that she did a wonderful job bringing to life 1816 Paris and the few real-life historical figures she includes here. That being said, the colorful descriptions and the lively, if brief, portrayal of Madame de Staël are the only two aspects of this novel that didn't make me feel as though I were slowly dragging a cheese grater over my frontal lobe.

My biggest problems with this book, and great deterrents they are, are the heroine, Lady Mary Campbell, and the temporal and emotional pacing of this book.

I like bluestocking heroines, I love hellions who throw convention to the wind, and I especially love women who stand up for themselves in the face of injustice, whether or not it would have been socially acceptable at the time. Lady Mary tries to be all of these things, but falls horrendously short of the mark, straight into the territories of the Mary Sue and the Spoiled Brat.

She rides astride and in men's clothing, has a mind keen on politics and adventure, and is young, stubborn (and yes, stubborn is the word I'm using, not "dedicated"), and beautiful to boot. But her horsemanship is a limp, romantic lure more than it is a meaningful skill, her intelligence and capacity for logic are greatly overstated as evidenced by every single thing she does in this book and her interactions and reactions to every other character, especially the romantic hero, Lord Ormond, and while everyone falls in love with her there are no character foils to highlight her supposed virtues against. Lady Mary and Germaine de Staël are "smart" and "independent", and Mary's friend Elizabeth has some substance to her, but every other woman in this book is smoke on the wind. Her only romantic competition makes two one-line appearances early in the book and then pops up at the end to drop an ill-timed bomb in our leading couple's lap. I didn't even remember that she was a part of the book until that happened, and by the time I had finished remembering so, she was gone again, relegated to very brief mentions and the problem is very suddenly and miraculously poofed away.

I can understand that there are going to be ends left loose or hastily tied together in a book that's only 314 pages long, but the amount of cast-off characters and shallow sub-plots only succeed at cheapening the whole of the story, instead of enriching it. A tapestry made of loose threads, hastily woven together is bound to fall apart, and that is what happens in RwtW.

Perhaps even more disappointing than Lady Mary's character is how badly this brevity and lack-of-depth affect the plotline and the romance, both of which have so much potential!

Had Regan Walker decided to stick to a wholly espionage-centered story, her strengths in historical accuracy and breathing life into long-dead historical figures would have flourished and created a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Or if she had perhaps not left the romance feeling secondary and abrupt - even though it was the central narrative - then perhaps it would have been a new favorite of mine. However, it seems as though she wrote half of each and tried to stick the two together, and ended up omitting the pieces of the puzzle that both mystery and romance readers truly love.

Sure, there are enough heady kisses and explicit scenes to satisfy a bored housewife, and the scenes involving the Prussian plot to oust Louis XVIII are exciting, but it still feels like everything has been left half-done. Take for instance the one dance our couple shares in the entire book; Ormond leads Mary out onto the floor, pulls her close for a waltz, and then suddenly the entire ball is over, we've changed perspectives, and all we're given is half a page of generic drivel about how romantic it was. Where is the actual romance? And why do I get the feeling that if Mary and Ormond weren't super hot for each other, there would be absolutely nothing between them besides an interest in horses? They want different things, they're terrible at communicating with each other, and neither of them is the kind to make concessions with regards to their future and relationship expectations. Because it's a romance novel, they get a happy ending, no spoiler there, but I honestly cannot see Lady Mary and Lord Ormond living happily ever after with each other - at least not for long.

So, while I am an overall fan of Regan Walker, I have to give Racing with the Wind two stars only, and I will gladly move on to the next book in the series, hoping that RwtW is an aberration, not the standard here.

[Tina Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hellion and the Spy

Racing with the Wind is the first book in Regan Walker’s Agents of the Crown Trilogy. It is a passionate romance between an unconventional debutante, Mary Campbell and the dashing Hugh Redgrave, the Marquess of Ormand. It is set in 1816, in the turbulent aftermath of the defeat and imprisonment of Napoleon and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy.

Hugh is an agent for the British crown and as the legendary spy, the Nighthawk, obtained intelligence, securing Napoleon’s defeat. He is in retreat from this role and is working closely with Lord Baynes, a top diplomat, and fellow agents to ensure that peace and prosperity are restored to France under King Louis. As heir to a dukedom, Hugh is under pressure to marry, a pressure he has no wish to succumb to, preferring freedom and adventure.

On to this stage steps Mary Campbell, a young debutante. Mary shuns convention being regarded as a hellion. She is educated, schooled in European affairs and politics and an excellent horsewoman. She has been indulged by her uncle, Lord Baynes and her mother, widowed since the untimely death of the Earl. She craves adventure more that the ballroom and wishes to avoid marriage, which she feels will curtail her freedom and prevent her from riding her stallion Midnight, clad in men’s breeches.

Once Mary and Hugh meet, there is an undeniable attraction. However, Hugh resolves to keep his distance, being wary of her wilful nature and favouring discrete affairs with older, more experienced women. Similarly Mary decides to avoid Hugh, viewing him as an arrogant rake. Yet circumstances throw them together in London and later Paris, as Mary persuades her uncle, Lord Baynes, that she will be a useful pair of eyes and ears for him whilst he carries out his diplomatic work. Mary has no idea that Hugh and the Nighthawk, whom she admires, are one and the same and she is unaware of Hugh’s activities as a spy for the Prince Regent.

Once in France, the tension in the plot increases dramatically and passion ignites. A double agent is on the loose and Mary endangers herself as she uncovers suspicious activities. Hugh is sworn to protect her and the exciting and suspenseful plot, in which Mary could pay the ultimate price, involves Bonapartists, royalists, English agents and the Prussians.

Hugh is a great hero, handsome and honourable, willing to go to great lengths to protect Mary, even from his own desire, which he reigns in on numerous occasions. He finds it hard to admit his love, being scarred by an event in his past, which has lead him to take great risks as an agent for the crown. He is extremely jealous of Mary’s admirers and I found his reactions amusing and endearing. Despite his initial resolve he is drawn to Mary, admiring her beauty, intelligence and bravery. He soon realises that she is his perfect match.

Mary cannot prevent her attraction to Hugh, even though initially she regards him as a dissolute rake. She soon realises that there is more to him than meets the eye and falls under his spell. However, she does not want to be just a pleasant liaison and she will be no man’s mistress. The romance is sweet. When lovemaking scenes do occur, it is Hugh’s sense of honour that prevails. However, Hugh fires Mary’s blood and when presented with the opportunity to get to know Hugh more intimately, Mary eventually decides to seize it, in some memorable scenes!

This book is different to many Regency romances I have read, the foray onto France adding a definite frisson of danger, romance and excitement. The author has clearly done a lot of research into the politics, fashions and places where she sets her scenes. I enjoyed the secondary characters, which included some historical figures. We are also introduced to Martin Powell, Hugh’s fellow agent, the lead in book 2 in the series, Against the Wind.

I recommend this book to all lovers of historical romance, particularly those who like an unconventional heroine and a strong and honourable hero, whose passion ignites in a tale full of intrigue an adventure.

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

[Nessa · Rating 3 out of 5]

THE STORY WAS WELL WRITTEN, FILLED TO THE BRIM WITH HISTORICAL RESEARCH AND PAIRED WITH A STRONG COUPLE WHO WOULD HAVE LOOKED GREAT ON A MOTION PICTURE. ALTHOUGH, IT DID LACK SOMETHING THAT FAILED TO MAKE MY HEART RACE, BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN I'M GOING TO RATE THIS AUTHOR'S EFFORT BASED ON WHAT I WASN'T FEELING.

HUGH can be the man you think he is the moment you have read the prologue. He's obviously working for the Prince Regent and he's also a man content with his bachelorhood. Tall, dark and handsome, Hugh commands the attention of many females, and he's certainly never made to chase any skirts. But, there is one exception for him - FINALLY. When he encounters the beautiful, blonde-haired Mary Campbell, his interest is piqued not solely because she's breathtaking, but he has heard rumors of her uncanny spirit, her almost bluestocking ways and after witnessing her uninhibited riding skills, he's caught for good. Except, Hugh's determined to pay her no mind, to not be attracted and to not engage his heart. Fool that he is, the heart wants what it wants and his every word spoken about Mary confessed his interest, not to mention his utmost concerns when her life was endangered, especially when she stepped into his world. While the story held moments of historical events or recollections for us, I must stress that there weren't many interactions between Hugh and Mary apart from the clandestine moments to build a proper relationship in an old fashion sense. It felt more like LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT and that's how the story flowed until Mary was pushed into Hugh's space for good when she was attacked...because most of the time they both AVOID each other.

MARY is a beautiful, young and vivacious woman with an intelligent mind coupled with an indomitable spirit. Her father died when she was younger, so the only father figure she has is her dear uncle, who indulges her whims and also encourages her bluestocking ways. Thus, it's how she finds herself submerged in dangerous works related to espionage and government related stuff. Mary's first meeting with Hugh reveals her serious attraction to the male, and while she tries to convince herself that he's a rake and she'll never settle for less than love...she still falls for him rather quickly anyway. As I mentioned, the story has quite a lot of information that is fed to you in the form of the characters' conversations but it does paint a vivid imagery in one's mind of the setting. Though, I did wish to see MORE interactions between the MCs. Yes, they do share stolen moments and have heartfelt talks, and lucky for that because it would have been superficial.

OVERALL I almost rated this dully because it didn't get me going like other dramatic stories, but right near the end, the author throws in an angsty situation that really woke me up to pay attention. Perhaps it was a hasty trick, but I didn't care because it pushed Hugh & Mary into an uncomfortable zone, leaving them to handle confrontation as they were always kisses and polite conversations in the beginning till the middle. It was a more SUBTLE romance though it LACKED SPICE AND PERHAPS THE MODERN DRAMA that makes you really crazy for the couple like how some contemporary authors get a 5 stars for their MCs in a 9/10.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The era during and just after the Napoleonic Wars were very exciting times and it makes the perfect backdrop for a historical romance- or so I think. I was eager to read this story about an English nobleman rake who moonlights as one of the Regent's best agents in France and about the tempestuous lady who refuses to conform her life to suit what is expected of her.

Lady Mary Campbell is an intelligent woman who loves to read, discourse on any subject with intelligence and ride her powerful black stallion astride. She has earned herself a reputation as a hoyden that has the Ton buzzing, but yet she knows she is expected to conform by engaging in the social season for the purpose of finding a husband.

Hugh Redgrave, Lord Ormond, finds himself at little at loose ends after Waterloo and the Crown with no immediate need for his particular talents. His parents are pressuring him to take a bride and start a family, but he has no desire to tie himself to an insipid debutante. He confines himself to married women and widows who know the score when he wants the companionship of a woman which has earned him a bit of a reputation.

The night Mary and Hugh clap eyes on each other begins something new and tantalizing for both of them. It only escalates when Hugh is assigned to assist Mary's uncle in his diplomatic work in Paris helping the new Bourbon government negotiate its first baby steps toward stability. Mary goes along to be eyes and ears for her uncle while enjoying the delights of Paris. While their attraction to each other grows, Mary and Hugh stumble onto deep intrigue that pushes them both to use their skills and luck.

I enjoy this type of historical romance plot where the woman is spirited and independent and the man must be strong and settled enough to appreciate her. The added bonus of the intrigue and adventure on top of the romance was great. I really enjoyed the tension between Hugh and Mary. They were fantastic together even when they were sparring a bit. The intrigue wasn't too tough to figure out, but I still found it a nice piece to the story. I not only liked the main characters, but I found the friends and family of both characters added depth and interest to the story for me particularly Mary's uncle. He's a wise tricksy old statesman who knows his stuff. It was only just near the end that I was a little irritated with Mary. There was a twist to the story that left Mary hurt and upset- which I totally understood as it would have floored me too. The thing was I was disappointed when she almost wallowed in her misery. Thank goodness her uncle came to her rescue because she sure wasn't willing to fight for her own happiness or give Hugh a chance.

In the end, it was a wonderful reading experience that I can recommend to all the historical romance lovers who like it a bit on the spicy side.

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I prefer my period romances with heroines who are not faint of heart and constrained by society. Mary, the heroine of this story is far from compliant with the restrictions placed on a woman of society in 1816 London. She is encouraged in her difference by her uncle, a diplomat for England, involved in the intrigue surrounding the court of Louis XVIII, after Napoleon’s banishment. Of course, diplomacy of that time involved some rather dubious ethical connections, and that is where Mary is introduced to her love interest, Hugh, Lord Ormond, who presents with impeccable English credentials, and has a penchant for subterfuge and the continued remove of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Mary is dragged, nearly kicking and screaming to the ‘mandatory’ events for a young woman of her station, even though she managed to delay her debut to her 19th year, and escapes to her country house repeatedly to “ride like the devil” clad in breeches and boots, upon her horse Midnight. Far from this being her only interest, Mary is an opinionated and well-read woman, full of input, ideas and opinions about everything that makes men cringe. Mary is a far more interesting character, especially since she has a sense of humour about her more outlandish presentations and theories.

I enjoyed this book: it was a fun read that beautifully described Paris of the time, including a wonderful homage to Notre Dame. The characters were quite well developed, especially the details that ran to the tone and tenor of the time in which the story was set. Scenes were beautifully described and detailed, creating description that led to imagining with little effort. The artful crafting of the character and plot enabled me to feel as though I was right there, on a shoulder so to speak, to follow the action.

For a first time author, this work was amazingly polished and masterful. As the first in a trilogy all centered on servants to the Crown, it is a stunning opening salvo. This was a winner on all fronts for me, and I look forward to book 2.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Mary Campbell is not your ordinary lady coming out into society, she is intelligent and can match any mans wits, has a will of her own and if she had her way would do away with her introduction to the season. With her first entrance she makes heads turns and quickly becomes known as outspoken and untameable, it does not however stop the single gentlemen from taking notice of the beauty she bestows and the desire to get to know her closer.

Hugh Redgrave, the Marquess of Ormond, had been warned but the man also secretly known as the "Nighthawk" had to see for himself if Lady Mary was as intriguing as she sounded. With an unsettling first meeting with the minx, Hugh finds himself wary of meeting her again, after all he does not want to get married anytime soon and when he is in her company, he finds himself thinking along that line. When Lady Mary becomes embroiled in discovering a double agent working both sides of the war, Hugh ends up not only trying to protect her but trying to keep her far away from her other suitors.

Thoroughly enjoyable story, Racing With The Wind had a spark of humor, bit of intrigue, and a sensuous cat and mouse dance between the notorious rake, Hugh and the alluring but determined Lady Mary. I enjoyed that Mary does not expect more from Hugh than who she knows he is, it really set the tone and left her character completely believable as a bluestocking hellion. Loved it, would definitely reread and pick up the next in what I hope is a new series

Review on blog
http://musingsfromanaddictedreader.bl...

[Patricia McAllister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regency with a Suspenseful Twist

There are three things I look for in good historical romance fiction novels: strong heroines, accurate historical details, and an education. The third expectation means I must finish the book having learned something new or something more about real historical events or people.

Prior to this book, I didn’t know much about post-Napoleonic France, so there was a definite education awaiting me in Regan Walker’s “Racing With the Wind.” It was an enjoyable and eye-opening lesson indeed. Despite her ordinary name, heroine Mary Campbell is far from ordinary, and worlds away from the typical Regency young lady. She is intelligent, outspoken, and willing to risk her very life in service of her country. She boldly dives into intrigue and danger rather than simply gush and simper over gowns. I love a brave heroine and Mary does not disappoint.

The hero Hugh Redgrave is all male without being overbearing. He is protective of Mary but respects her intelligence, and their mutual attraction is the delicious tension underscoring the intricate plot. And as I hoped, there are also real historical characters here to round out the cast. Without a doubt the author has done her research to paint a vivid portrait of the era, and sweeps her readers along at an exciting gallop with a couple well-suited in life and love.

[S.B.K. Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Racing With The Wind by Regan Walker bears all the facets of an historical condensed into one fine jewel of a fairy-tale romance.

Walker’s done her homework. Not only is her novel historically accurate, but I find myself sharing the hero and heroine’s story to such a degree, its pages transport me to the very century they represent. In this fictional account, the early nineteenth was a time when France’s returning monarch was threatened by those desiring the return of ex-emperor Napoleon. In the midst of that comes a headstrong, black-stallion-riding young noblewoman, Lady Mary Campbell--who knows her own mind and refuses to be marketed at the grand balls of the ton. She meets a devilishly handsome and mysterious agent of the British Crown, Hugh Redgrave, undercover name: The Nighthawk.

While in Paris on business, Mary’s uncle, a British diplomat, leaves her under the secret agent’s protective hands. The rake is forced to spend time reining in her natural sleuthing skills and finds he can’t keep his hands off her. He barely realizes he’s fallen in love.

In Racing, we find our pot of gold, as Mary and her Nighthawk find theirs, at the end of a masterful sexual-tension rainbow. I loved it and especially the heroine, a fearless and daring young woman.

[Anita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Mary Campbell is an unconventional woman, though Regency society is less forgiving of individuality in a woman than a man. Bored with her first season, she prefers to help her uncle, a British Diplomat, and despite objections, accompanies him to Paris.

Thrown together with a British Spy known as The Nighthawk, Mary is left in his care, but she then proceeds to infuriate and frustrate him by her own efforts to exercise her investigative skills. He swings between wishing to had never met her, to falling for her charms, while her feelings run along the same lines. The combination of passion and reluctance is irresistible.

Regency England comes alive in this engaging story, with authentic details of the customs, clothing, social structure and historical events of Napoleonic Europe. Both the main characters are enigmatic, strong minded and with an intriguing story of their own to tell and ultimately deserving of each other.

Racing With The Wind is the first book in the ‘Agents of the Crown’ series

[Kate Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

What did I love about this book? Everything.

Walker's attention to detail is incredible. Add to that larger than life characters, a passionate love story, and political intrigue and the result is a fantastic book I couldn't put down.

Hugh Redgrave is a smokin' hot hero who's easy to root for. Lady Mary is adventurous and passionate. I sometimes find characters like her overbearing, but I didn't with her. Walker carefully crafted her and she did a fantastic job of it. The story's setting and political backdrop added a wealth of texture to the story.

Fantastic job Ms. Walker. I will be reading more of your books.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intelligent, astute, debutante more interested in political intrigue than the dull monotony of the ton.

The heir to a dukedom gains a reputation as a rake to cover for his clandestine activities for the crown. He's not prepared to give up freedom but a hoyden catches his eye and dismisses him then finagles her way into his mission as well as his waking thoughts.

I enjoyed this novel because of the strong, resourceful, witty female heroine not willing to compromise or diminish herself to placate male egos. Also the competent, confident hero undone by a young woman refusing to do as she's told.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Walker pens a historically accurate plot in "Racing with the Wind" with just enough action to keep you guessing untill the end. Her characters are strong and believable with passion. I totally enjoyed the book and looking forward to the sequel. Recommened for all who love a good historical romance filled with mystery and passion.

This review is based on a complimentary copy which was provided for an honest review.

[Violetta Rand · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful spy tale set amongst the glamorous Regency era. No wallflower here ... the heroine, Lady Mary, captured my interest from the start. She's not satisfied with gowns and balls. This lady knows what she wants.

Passion explodes between the H/H, adventure, deep historical undertones, and superb imagination on the part of the author make this a must read.

[Lauren Laviolette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Smarter than the average romance novel!

Much research has obviously gone into this quick-paced story that follows the intrepid Lady Mary. With spies, intrigue, and a smoking hero-- Racing With the Wind is an alluring page turner.

[Ellen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought the prequel (Book 0 in the series) was ok and bought this but I just could not get into it. It was DNF for me. Many things seemed not plausible for the time and I got tired of the French history and descriptive prose that didn't seem to enhance the action.

[ROMANTIC HISTORICAL REVIEW BLOG · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars Reviewed by Anita for Romantic Historical Lovers

http://romantichistoricallovers.wordp...

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read: 2021

Great beginning! The spy element was interesting.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A historical romance with a lot of real history in it. Also, a good part of it is set in Paris so makes it a bit different feel as well. I enjoyed Hugh and Mary a lot. She is a headstrong female with intelligence and a love of horses. He is secretly a spy, highly intelligent, and wants to look out for her. They find a balance. I didn't care for the bit of a twist at the end that almost keeps them apart. This was my first book by Regan Walker and I will be looking for more from her. (Set in 1811)

[Karen Llanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think think was such a well written book. I loved how Regan Walker use the facts of true historcal figures in her story. I thought Ormond and Mary had such chemistry together.

[Vibina Venugopal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The novel opens dramatically with Nighthawk sneaking into Napolean's general's private space stealing highly confidential documents consisting of Napolean's army advances...There are things about a book that appeals to you from the beginning and this novel had every ingredient to grip me into it....Lady Mary Campbell is not taken away by the glitz and glory of the ball, nor she finds any solace in gossips..It is solely for the sake of her dear Uncle who gave her life a new direction by encouraging her to read a lot and letting her to ride the black stallion midnight...Yet., she is taken away by a tall, and dashing man staring intently upon her and she knows nothing would be the same from then on...Surprisingly that is exactly Hugh feels after he sets his eyes upon Lady Mary gliding away in the ball like a Swan so elegantly .,something in her set ablaze in him ..He pursued her much to the amazement of his own struggling will to keep love at bay....He is even more attracted to her as he is introduced to her officially, her knowledge about varied range of books, ideas on world politics and her opinion on mundane things casts a magical aura around him, with every single acquaintance., they cross that normal line as he struggles to behave like a gentleman ., yet his reputaion as a rake comes in between them not letting Mary to pursue her heart for the fear losing her heart..Things are pushed to a larger arena as Mary accompanies her Uncle to Paris for a diplomatic venture, she uncovers certain secrets right through the area of action getting herself into big trouble than she couldn't even have imagine...Rescuing Mary and being enthrusted of her safety by her Uncle, Mary and Hugh are forced to confronts their true feelings for each other ., things don't come up to a happily ever after tale without few other twists and turns that I enjoyed...

The characters of the novel are well developed though one between Mary and Hugh are the best ., Mary is unorthodox for her time., riding in breeches and boots, immersing herself in philosophy and world politics rather spending time grooming herself... She is quite easily put off with girly things and never looks forward to attend any ball, she even postponed her season as a debutante to be with her Uncle and sweeps some secret from meeting for the benefit of her Uncle earning her a nickname "the swan" from Prince Regent...Hugh on the other side is rusty , debonair and an intelligent man who stays away from the luxury of being a Duke to be useful to the Prince spending his time away from his home and continent immersing himself into some danger and thrill and it is too obvious that to see the spark to between Hugh and Mary...Mary's Uncle a diplomat to crown Prince is a kind and a father figure to her who takes her into under his protective wing after her father's death., while her mother is a soft and slender woman who has given up on her daughter to keep her in line like other girls of her age...Elizebeth is Mary's best friend., it is her she is comfortable apart from her family , book and midnight..There are few Lizzy-Mary moment filled in fun girly moments ...Lizzy eyes on Lamberth who happens to be Hugh's best mate and like him earned a name of rake..Walker has been able to beautifully built a period romance taking the reader into 18th century with all ..The lives in Paris and London is brought alive by London's social circle streets, coffee shops and Paris's rich gallery and people...Real characters like Prince Regent, Germaine De Stael ,Vicomte Decazes form the part of the novel giving it a real touch of non-fiction....Walker has worked her way to describe each of the scene and the surrounding to perfection that I felt like watching the characters through garden, streets and riding rather than just reading...An amazing dose of drama, romance, betrayal, melancholy, surprise, friendship makes the book for a wonderful read... I am very much looking forward to read the next part of the Trilogy...

[Marlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally published at Reading Reality

Regan Walker's Racing With the Wind is not your typical Regency romance. But then, Lady Mary Campbell is not your typical Regency romance heroine, either. Not from the minute she comes galloping into the story, and Hugh Redgrave's life, riding astride her stallion Midnight.

And that pretty much defines Mary. She rides in men's clothing, she doesn't ride sidesaddle, and she's riding a stallion. And just about from the first minute he meets her, Hugh Redgrave, Marquess of Ormond, spends most of his time in Mary's company trying, and generally failing, to suppress his desire to either tame Mary Campbell, or simply suppress his desire to have her ride him like that stallion.

Besides the obvious, there's another reason that Hugh keeps trying to tame Mary, or at least rein her in a little. She keeps getting herself into trouble.

Not little trouble, not minor peccadilloes. This is not your standard Regency. There are no drawing room scandals. Mary's uncle is one of the English envoys to France in the years just after Waterloo. Mary has traveled with him on his business with the French government, and she has been very helpful on his mission. While the French, (and the Prussians, and the Austrians) don't think she's paying attention, Mary makes a very good spy.

The Prince Regent thinks she's wonderful. Hugh Redgrave thinks she's dangerous. And he should know. He really IS a spy. During the war the French knew him as "The Nighthawk". Now that the war is over, he still does occasional "work" for Prinny. Hugh is having a difficult time settling down to his noble duties now that the excitement of the war is over.

Attempting to keep Mary out of trouble in Paris provides all the excitement that Hugh could possibly need. And more. Mary's investigations uncover a French double agent and an Austrian plot to restore Napoleon (again). Her life is threatened more than once.

To save Mary, her uncle entrusts her to Hugh, sending them on a cross-country journey by horseback through the French countryside, alone and unchaperoned. He hopes they will finally see what everyone else already knows, that they are perfect for one another.

Running from safe-house to safe-house with the hounds of three countries on their heels forces Hugh and Mary to confront the simmering sexual tension that has driven them to distraction every time they have crossed paths. But just when they think everything is resolved, there is one last obstacle to overcome

Escape Rating B: This story took a long time to get itself set up, nearly half the book. Once all the pieces were finally in place on the chess board, the action was fast and furious, and I couldn't put it down, but the first half needed a bit of tightening. Some of these preliminaries were necessary to set the historic backdrop, and this is book one of a trilogy, but still...

The concept of this story, two spies who fall for each other, reminded me of Shana Galen's Lord and Lady Spy, although this is the "before" version, since Hugh and Mary know what they are before they marry. It also reminded me of the historic parts of Lauren Willig's Pink Carnation series. The Napoleonic War period and its aftermath seems to be fertile ground for spy-type love stories.

One part of the story I very much enjoyed was that Hugh and Mary compromised on what would and wouldn't be acceptable for both of them. They had not led conventional lives, and would not be content doing so. They each recognized that was part of what they needed in the other one, and that changing too much would destroy their relationship. She did not become a simpering twit, and he did not become a boring idiot.

I do want to read the next book in the series. This period is always fascinating!

[Adria's Musings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on Breath of Life Reviews


I have a deep, abiding love for historical spy romance novels. Why? Because being a spy was way harder when there was no such thing as phone taping devices, or night vision goggles and it adds an element of suspense and excitement to the overall story. The only downside is that it becomes difficult to find books with this theme that don't all sound the same after awhile. Racing with the Wind by Regan Walker is thankfully, one of those novels that doesn't read like a rehashing of a bunch of historical spy romance novels. It has it's own identity, one that I truly enjoyed.

How a woman behaves and thinks can seriously make or break a novel like Racing with the Wind. If an author is going to write a spy romance novel, especially a historical romance novel, then the heroine MUST be intelligent, courageous, and unique. Mary Campbell is the embodiment of those three. I loved her! In a time where independence and intelligence was unforgivable and unattractive in a woman, Mary is an unconventional delight. So many descriptions of Mary can be found throughout the entire book but my absolute favorite is said by Hugh himself early on in the book, he refers to her as a "bluestocking hellion." From that moment, I had high hopes that Mary would live up to that name and she certainly did! However, Mary isn't made of stone, she has a woman's heart after all, she wants a man who will love her for who she is and not try and tame her.

I'd like to think that if I lived in Regency England that I would have the courage to be just like Mary, down to the Friesian stallion (my favorite horse).

Hugh is definitely special in his own right. Sure he's got the typical good looks, height and commanding presence but it takes a special kind of man to capture and keep Mary's heart. He is not perfect, by all means he has his flaws but that's what makes him such a believable and suitable partner for Mary. He is a fair minded, intelligent man who quickly learns that force and intimidation do not work on Mary. He learns to appreciate and love Mary for who she is and not who he wants her to be. Oh to find a man like that for myself! Mary is one lucky woman.

The action, suspense and mystery doesn't kick in until late in the story but this just gives the budding attraction between Hugh and Mary to grow before it's put to the test. Once the spy games begin though, there's no stopping it. The pacing of the story in the second half is certainly faster than the first half but it doesn't lose the readers in the chaos of murderers, thieves and some seriously steamy, sexy moments with Hugh and Mary. Among all the action, Hugh and Mary's relationship deepens into a mutual respect, admiration and eventually, love that was both entertaining and heartwarming.

I have to applaud Regan Walker for the tremendous amount of research that obviously went into Racing with the Wind. I'm by no means an expert on Regency England but it was clear there was a fair amount of research that went into this book. I even learned a few interesting facts myself and found a new historical figure to Google and read about to my heart's content.

Overall, Racing with the Wind is a dazzling mix of passion, adventure, mystery and love. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next book in the trilogy.