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London League #3
A Tip of the Cap
With Cap in hand...
Malcolm Colerain, Earl of Montgomery, needs a wife. He has four children, a peerage, and a demanding secret occupation as a member of the London League; all of which give him a fulfilling life, so a proper marriage of convenience is all he seeks. But when he meets Elizabeth Owens, things begin to change. Distance becomes difficult, convenience becomes rather inconvenient, and his exciting life as a spy turns on its head.
...Love comes to call...
Beth Owens seizes the chance to marry the handsome and striking Earl of Montgomery, marriage of convenience or not. Her heart is his for the taking, and she is determined that he eventually will. But the more she learns about her husband, the more he puzzles her. He has secrets, she is well aware, but just how many and how deeply do they run? And when she finds a few secrets of her own, will they ever have a chance at love?
Malcolm Colerain, Earl of Montgomery, needs a wife. He has four children, a peerage, and a demanding secret occupation as a member of the London League; all of which give him a fulfilling life, so a proper marriage of convenience is all he seeks. But when he meets Elizabeth Owens, things begin to change. Distance becomes difficult, convenience becomes rather inconvenient, and his exciting life as a spy turns on its head.
...Love comes to call...
Beth Owens seizes the chance to marry the handsome and striking Earl of Montgomery, marriage of convenience or not. Her heart is his for the taking, and she is determined that he eventually will. But the more she learns about her husband, the more he puzzles her. He has secrets, she is well aware, but just how many and how deeply do they run? And when she finds a few secrets of her own, will they ever have a chance at love?
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2024
337 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
91 books1,256 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
October 22, 2020
3.5
I liked this one, good characters and storyline. I picked this one up without reading the synopsis which was great, I liked the surprises along the way and watching things play out. This is book three in the Longon League series, but stood well on its own. I liked Malcome and Beth, both were likable characters and a good fit for each other. I found Beth to be a little too perfect at times. I liked their realationship and how it evolves.
Content: Clean. Closed door intimacy between married couple. Very mild moments of peril and suspence. No language.
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I liked this one, good characters and storyline. I picked this one up without reading the synopsis which was great, I liked the surprises along the way and watching things play out. This is book three in the Longon League series, but stood well on its own. I liked Malcome and Beth, both were likable characters and a good fit for each other. I found Beth to be a little too perfect at times. I liked their realationship and how it evolves.
Content: Clean. Closed door intimacy between married couple. Very mild moments of peril and suspence. No language.
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February 1, 2019
Oh! this book was like eating a big piece of Chocolate cake with raspberry sauce dripped all over. A cake that has no calories and leaves you feeling light and fluffy and happy. I love arraigned marriage stories and this one was so fun to read. Cap thought he had it all figured out until Beth comes along and shakes his whole world. I loved these two characters and enjoyed there love story so much. They go threw so difficult things that tugged at my heart. Beth is one of my favorite leading ladies, I loved how she played with the children and taught them to trust again. This was a great story with great characters. Sweet proper romance with a hint of danger, this one had less spying and more of a regency feel to it. The first two in the series were a little more focused on the spying. I gotta give props to authors who write these kinds of books. The main character has at least 5 names! Cap, Monty, Malcolm, Earl of Montgomery, he could be called my Lord or Montgomery or Monty for short. Good heavens! Lots of names and depending on how close you were to him or if you were a peer of the realm or a servant he had to be called by different names. Props to Authors who keep all this stuff correct.
February 8, 2019
Malcolm Colerain, Earl of Montgomery (Monty to his friends), Cap to the members of the London League needs to find a wife. Not because he wants one, but for the sake of his four young children; they need a mother. Although it's been more than two years since his wife Caroline died, he's still not ready to move on. Every day felt as painful as the first, and for a man accustomed to such self-control, it was too much. That sentence tells us so much about this man.
Beth Owens is the youngest of 10 children, with no prospects for marriage. She plans to find a job as a governess, even though she doesn't think she'll make a very good one, although she is wonderful with children--patient and kind, and children seem to love her.
When Monty proposes to Beth he envisions a marriage of convenience in the strictest sense. He's still mourning his deceased wife, but his children will have a mother, his home will have a mistress to run it and he can focus on his secret work with the London League and not feel guilty being away from his children. I think we all know how this situation will end.
I loved the banter between Cap and Beth from their very first conversation. I LOVED the scene when Rogue and Rook were fighting and Beth took control of the situation. “Thank you,” Beth said with a smile and a nod. “Now, if you would remove your hands from his person, I think his cravat may be trying to strangle him with your help.” Beth was ready to give her heart and soul to Cap if he would just allow her in. I liked the advice her friend Lily gave her--to visit Caroline's grave and talk to her about Cap. I loved how Beth treated the children and played games with them. They were back to being happy children again. I liked seeing how Beth was breaking through the wall Cap had put around his heart to protect himself. He cared for Beth but didn't want to ever go through the pain of losing someone else again--it hurt too much.
This is the third book in the London League series, but the first I've read in this series. The author does a good job referring to the characters from the previous two books so I wasn't lost--I could put the pieces together, but I really want to read the first two books The Lady and the Gent and A Rogue About Town.
Beth Owens is the youngest of 10 children, with no prospects for marriage. She plans to find a job as a governess, even though she doesn't think she'll make a very good one, although she is wonderful with children--patient and kind, and children seem to love her.
When Monty proposes to Beth he envisions a marriage of convenience in the strictest sense. He's still mourning his deceased wife, but his children will have a mother, his home will have a mistress to run it and he can focus on his secret work with the London League and not feel guilty being away from his children. I think we all know how this situation will end.
I loved the banter between Cap and Beth from their very first conversation. I LOVED the scene when Rogue and Rook were fighting and Beth took control of the situation. “Thank you,” Beth said with a smile and a nod. “Now, if you would remove your hands from his person, I think his cravat may be trying to strangle him with your help.” Beth was ready to give her heart and soul to Cap if he would just allow her in. I liked the advice her friend Lily gave her--to visit Caroline's grave and talk to her about Cap. I loved how Beth treated the children and played games with them. They were back to being happy children again. I liked seeing how Beth was breaking through the wall Cap had put around his heart to protect himself. He cared for Beth but didn't want to ever go through the pain of losing someone else again--it hurt too much.
This is the third book in the London League series, but the first I've read in this series. The author does a good job referring to the characters from the previous two books so I wasn't lost--I could put the pieces together, but I really want to read the first two books The Lady and the Gent and A Rogue About Town.
March 3, 2019
I loved the complicated dynamics of Malcolm and Beth as they yearn for each other and struggle with their feelings. Malcolm is especially angst-ridden as he still grieves for his first wife and finds himself falling for Beth. She is perfect for him and his children, and she is patient as she works to discover the hidden layers of Malcolm. His secret life as an agent provides him an escape and distraction from his familial circumstances and often runs when Beth gets too close. I liked seeing the other members of the League call him on it and encourage him to focus on his most important priorities. It was gratifying when Malcolm and Beth finally overcome the issues and allow themselves to fully enjoy their relationship. Of course, danger is always looming for the London League and a dramatic revelation of the treasonous suspect brings an exciting climax to the plot. Another fabulous addition to the series, I'm hoping that Rook's story will be next!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed in this review are my own)
May 14, 2025
Great story…
Although, this wasn’t my favorite, it was still a good story. I loved the story between Cap and Beth, but there were also parts I wasn’t that fond of. I also found the overall story a bit confusing, but it was still a worthwhile read.
Although, this wasn’t my favorite, it was still a good story. I loved the story between Cap and Beth, but there were also parts I wasn’t that fond of. I also found the overall story a bit confusing, but it was still a worthwhile read.
July 16, 2019
This was a satisfying read for me. I am enjoying the "London League" books. Each tells a story of a member of the League, a group of titled gentlemen who spy for their country.
This is a book of a marriage of convenience that becomes inconvenient when the characters develop feelings for each other. I loved the characters. My heart was really taken by the adorable children, particularly the little girls who are trying to become fairies.
This is a book of a marriage of convenience that becomes inconvenient when the characters develop feelings for each other. I loved the characters. My heart was really taken by the adorable children, particularly the little girls who are trying to become fairies.
February 29, 2020
Whew! Don’t mind me. I’m still fanning over here from the sizzling chemistry & passion between Malcolm and Beth. I so adore marriage-of-convenience stories (when done right) because there is all this delicious tension and longing that is only staying bottled up because of agreements made for a ‘name-only’ relationship at the outset, agreements that become tenuous at best once they are in close quarters and growing to know one another better. And then when that tension and longing can’t be ignored any longer… goodness gracious, bring on the fainting couches because I’m all a’swoon.
Beth is an absolutely delightful heroine, not a ‘typical’ countess to be sure, and that’s what makes her so lovable. Malcolm takes a while to figure this out fully, but he does know right away that she’s something special. The way she interacts with his kids, with his staff, with him (in spite of his initial distance), and even with the memory of his late wife completely endeared her to me. Malcolm has intrigued me from the beginning of the series, and while I think this could be read as a standalone I also think it’s better to do what I did & grab the first two London League books before you start on this third one. (Plus you really must meet Gent) I loved watching his transformation in this book as Beth worked her magic on the whole grieving family, and seeing him fall hard in love had my heart all twitterpated.
The intrigue in this series adds to the romantic tension, but in this book it doesn’t take center stage as much as it does in the others. All 3 books get a little heavy on narrative from time to time – long pages with nothing but explanation of what was happening or had happened … or perhaps the character’s thoughts or reasoning on some matter. This slows the pace a bit, but overall it’s easily forgiven once the romance really takes hold. Another thing that slowed my reading on occasion was the references to events that seemed to have taken place in another story but I can’t find that they did. Maybe the author is writing another series that will cover some of these ‘off camera’ moments – I hope so because I’d love to read about them!
Bottom Line: A Tip of the Cap is a swoony marriage-of-convenience story between two fabulously drawn characters – with some adorable children to boot. Readers will fall in love with Beth immediately and be invested in her throughout. And when Malcolm turns on the charm and romance? Heaven help us all. The spy side of the story is intriguing and draws you in but doesn’t overpower the story or the characters. This league of London with its hodgepodge of covert operatives is one you’ll want to infiltrate to be sure.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Beth is an absolutely delightful heroine, not a ‘typical’ countess to be sure, and that’s what makes her so lovable. Malcolm takes a while to figure this out fully, but he does know right away that she’s something special. The way she interacts with his kids, with his staff, with him (in spite of his initial distance), and even with the memory of his late wife completely endeared her to me. Malcolm has intrigued me from the beginning of the series, and while I think this could be read as a standalone I also think it’s better to do what I did & grab the first two London League books before you start on this third one. (Plus you really must meet Gent) I loved watching his transformation in this book as Beth worked her magic on the whole grieving family, and seeing him fall hard in love had my heart all twitterpated.
The intrigue in this series adds to the romantic tension, but in this book it doesn’t take center stage as much as it does in the others. All 3 books get a little heavy on narrative from time to time – long pages with nothing but explanation of what was happening or had happened … or perhaps the character’s thoughts or reasoning on some matter. This slows the pace a bit, but overall it’s easily forgiven once the romance really takes hold. Another thing that slowed my reading on occasion was the references to events that seemed to have taken place in another story but I can’t find that they did. Maybe the author is writing another series that will cover some of these ‘off camera’ moments – I hope so because I’d love to read about them!
Bottom Line: A Tip of the Cap is a swoony marriage-of-convenience story between two fabulously drawn characters – with some adorable children to boot. Readers will fall in love with Beth immediately and be invested in her throughout. And when Malcolm turns on the charm and romance? Heaven help us all. The spy side of the story is intriguing and draws you in but doesn’t overpower the story or the characters. This league of London with its hodgepodge of covert operatives is one you’ll want to infiltrate to be sure.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 21, 2019
Another FANTASTIC book in this series!!
Wow- the author once again outdid herself with this newest addition to the London League series. Seriously, I finished this book in one day, and I still want to re-read favorite parts.
Beth and Malcom or “Cap” as he is known in the first two books, have such a unique story. They marry based solely on the fact that Malcom needs someone to care for his mother-less children, and Beth chooses this life over that of a governess. Beth was an absolute favorite from the start. She is spunky, kind, fantastic with children, and has courage in spades. She is exactly what Cap and his kids needs, although he doesn’t know it and doesn’t want to acknowledge it.
Malcom was a great swoon-worthy hero, but not in the traditional sense. Watching him mourn his first love and late wife, agonize over developing feelings for Beth, worry over his agents in the London League, and learn to truly love and play with his children again was fascinating. He is so likable because he is so real, faults and all. The way he takes care of Beth had me melting into a puddle, especially after a certain turning point in the story.
I did feel that this book focused much more on Malcom and his family rather than the intrigue and suspense of the London League, but it was still woven into the background of this story.
This was truly a delightful read, and of course now I simply CANNOT wait for the next book in the series!
Wow- the author once again outdid herself with this newest addition to the London League series. Seriously, I finished this book in one day, and I still want to re-read favorite parts.
Beth and Malcom or “Cap” as he is known in the first two books, have such a unique story. They marry based solely on the fact that Malcom needs someone to care for his mother-less children, and Beth chooses this life over that of a governess. Beth was an absolute favorite from the start. She is spunky, kind, fantastic with children, and has courage in spades. She is exactly what Cap and his kids needs, although he doesn’t know it and doesn’t want to acknowledge it.
Malcom was a great swoon-worthy hero, but not in the traditional sense. Watching him mourn his first love and late wife, agonize over developing feelings for Beth, worry over his agents in the London League, and learn to truly love and play with his children again was fascinating. He is so likable because he is so real, faults and all. The way he takes care of Beth had me melting into a puddle, especially after a certain turning point in the story.
I did feel that this book focused much more on Malcom and his family rather than the intrigue and suspense of the London League, but it was still woven into the background of this story.
This was truly a delightful read, and of course now I simply CANNOT wait for the next book in the series!
February 4, 2019
I love this series and I loved Cap’s story! My only complaint is I feel the “danger” part of the story seemed rushed at the end. Other than that, I loved this love story and would totally recommend the entire series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2019
4.5 stars for this third installment in the London League series by Rebecca Connolly! I did not read the first two books so it took me a bit of time to sort out all the secondary characters but it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. The writing is easy to follow, the dialogue between the characters is witty and fun, the plot is quite interesting with a dash of intrigue, and the characters are endearing. If you enjoy a fun historical romance set in 1820s London, you will enjoy this book.
The main characters Beth and Malcolm are so lovable, as are his four children. Beth is sunshine, optimism, tender love, and spunk all rolled into one. Malcolm is in a dark place when he meets Beth, still suffering from his wife’s death two years prior. He works as a spy for England so his life is already shrouded in secrets and it takes all Beth has and then some to pull Malcolm out from the darkness so that he can be his thoughtful, loving, tender, compassionate, and amazing self again. There is a bit more implied physical affection than I am used to in the story but it’s still a clean read. The romance between Beth and Malcolm is slow and sweet. The intrigue involving Malcolm’s group of spies called the London League helps the plot to move along and adds another layer of fun into the story.
I received a copy of the book from the author/publisher via Singing Librarian Book Tour and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The main characters Beth and Malcolm are so lovable, as are his four children. Beth is sunshine, optimism, tender love, and spunk all rolled into one. Malcolm is in a dark place when he meets Beth, still suffering from his wife’s death two years prior. He works as a spy for England so his life is already shrouded in secrets and it takes all Beth has and then some to pull Malcolm out from the darkness so that he can be his thoughtful, loving, tender, compassionate, and amazing self again. There is a bit more implied physical affection than I am used to in the story but it’s still a clean read. The romance between Beth and Malcolm is slow and sweet. The intrigue involving Malcolm’s group of spies called the London League helps the plot to move along and adds another layer of fun into the story.
I received a copy of the book from the author/publisher via Singing Librarian Book Tour and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
February 6, 2019
Just what I needed!
I really enjoy Connollys series, always have and I believe I always will!
This one did not disappoint. I enjoyed every moment of reading it and am looking forward to reading Rooks story.
A wonderful clean romance with adventure, secrets, and love!
I do hope that Connolly creates a map for me to remember who each character is. I love it when past characters are in these books but my muddled mind sometimes has difficulty in remembering who is who.
Totally recommend this series along with every other Rebecca Connolly book!
I really enjoy Connollys series, always have and I believe I always will!
This one did not disappoint. I enjoyed every moment of reading it and am looking forward to reading Rooks story.
A wonderful clean romance with adventure, secrets, and love!
I do hope that Connolly creates a map for me to remember who each character is. I love it when past characters are in these books but my muddled mind sometimes has difficulty in remembering who is who.
Totally recommend this series along with every other Rebecca Connolly book!
February 1, 2026
This one almost got 4 stars but for one scene that I think could have been handled differently. I loved Beth’s character. Her optimism and charming personality was sooooo good. Her friend Lily was also a great character. Cap was good sometimes and a bit bipolar at other times. He has been portrayed as such a calm and cool headed guy through out the series but he has some issues in this one. He was sometimes even mean and I did not like that. When he was good he was very very good, but when he was not.. well, you get the idea. Beth’s character is what makes the book worth reading.
February 3, 2019
Good
I love Beth! She is outstanding in every way. As usual, a well crafted story. Have loved the whole series so far. I always enjoy a good witty spy story. This one was good, just not THE best so far. Can't wait for the next one.
I love Beth! She is outstanding in every way. As usual, a well crafted story. Have loved the whole series so far. I always enjoy a good witty spy story. This one was good, just not THE best so far. Can't wait for the next one.
February 1, 2019
Great book.
Another great book by Rebecca Connolly. Loved it. Lots of twists and turns along the way with some heart warming romance to boot.
Another great book by Rebecca Connolly. Loved it. Lots of twists and turns along the way with some heart warming romance to boot.
March 11, 2019
Love it!
I love all the wonderful characters of the London League. I was pleased by the patience and care shown by both our hero and heroine. Their marriage only suffered on the few occasions that they were less than honest about their feelings. Perhaps a lesson or two is there for us all. I can’t wait for the next book!
I love all the wonderful characters of the London League. I was pleased by the patience and care shown by both our hero and heroine. Their marriage only suffered on the few occasions that they were less than honest about their feelings. Perhaps a lesson or two is there for us all. I can’t wait for the next book!
March 1, 2019
A Tip of the Cap is the third installment from Rebecca Connolly’s series, London League. It is, also, my first introduction to this author’s work and it will not be my last. I believe this book can read as a stand alone. I did not feel as though I was missing anything or lost by not reading the first two in the series. I enjoyed Malcolm and Elizabeth’s story. It is a quick read that I had no problem to have it finished in a few hours.
I give A Tip of the Cap four and a half stars. I can not wait to read the other books from the London League series and more by Ms Connolly in the future. I recommend this clean and sweet historical.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give A Tip of the Cap four and a half stars. I can not wait to read the other books from the London League series and more by Ms Connolly in the future. I recommend this clean and sweet historical.
I received this book from the publisher, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
March 5, 2019
LOVED IT!!! I can’t wait for the next one 😍
A perfect blend of suspense & intrigue - with both the romance & the mystery!
I loved the fact that characters from the other stories in this series as well as from the authors other books crossed over into this story. It makes me want to read & in quite a few cases re-read them all over again! But most particularly the other books from the London League series. I definitely recommend you read them!! I have fallen in love with all of Rebecca’s characters (except for the villains of course) & can’t wait to read more about them!
A perfect blend of suspense & intrigue - with both the romance & the mystery!
I loved the fact that characters from the other stories in this series as well as from the authors other books crossed over into this story. It makes me want to read & in quite a few cases re-read them all over again! But most particularly the other books from the London League series. I definitely recommend you read them!! I have fallen in love with all of Rebecca’s characters (except for the villains of course) & can’t wait to read more about them!
September 30, 2019
I can't muster any enthusiasm up for writing any kind of review for another book like this. The drama, the misunderstandings, etcetc. Yaddayaddayadda. Beth was blind for half of the book and that was interesting.
May 13, 2020
Cap was not my favorite of the London League spies.
January 4, 2024
The main character frustrated me, but he was true to his character.
March 5, 2019
A Tip of the Cap is the third book in the London League series by Rebecca Connolly. Having never read the first two (and not having the time to do so), I was worried that I wouldn’t understand what was going on. Luckily, though clearly characters, relationships, and references would be more clearly understood with the first two books having been read, I was able to understand and follow the mostly stand-alone plot of this book.
The “theme” of the series is the London League, a spy organization tasked with protecting the Crown and the Crown’s secrets. Each book is about one member, referenced in the title, and this book is about Cap, otherwise known as Malcolm, Lord Montgomery. Now, I will say that I felt the London League aspect of the book was the weakest part. Perhaps that’s because I hadn’t read the first two and so had no clue who Gent and Rogue and Rook were, but I found all the spy stuff hard to follow. For example, Rook and Rogue get into a fight for some reason at a ball, but it’s never clearly explained why—to throw someone off the scent? But why would a fight change that?—and I found it hard to believe that Malcolm and Gent would then have a conversation, in the ballroom, where they toss around Rook and Rogue’s code names casually, as if no one was around to hear them. I also had no clear idea about the nameless, faceless “enemy” they were facing, though there are mentions of France. Also, if they are spies and no one knows their true identities, why do they all work at the same office building (why have an office building at all??)?
However, besides my confusion with those points, I did enjoy the action and tension that the spy plot gave, as it lended itself well as a break from the more heavily romantic areas of the book. Because the book is, of course, a historical romance, featuring an arranged marriage of a sort and all the romantic angst and atmosphere that one might expect. I thought it was really well done, for the most part, if a bit predictable in some places and too fast-paced in others, and Beth was fairly adorable (though I found her speech at the ball when she broke up Rook and Rogue’s “fight” to be way too over-the-top and cheesy). Both her’s and Malcolm’s motivations and thoughts felt realistic, and their interactions and the development of their relationship were believable, as well as sweet and heartwarming in the right places. But I think my favorite romance of the book was the one between Lily Granger and her husband, even though most of that develops “off-page” and is resolved rather quickly.
A Tip of the Cap was much better than I thought it would be. Though I found a lot of the London League stuff confusing, and its explanation clunky, the main story was interesting, the romance was sweet, and the spy arc helped break up all that sugary stuff and injected some tension and drama that went beyond the normal romantic variety.
The “theme” of the series is the London League, a spy organization tasked with protecting the Crown and the Crown’s secrets. Each book is about one member, referenced in the title, and this book is about Cap, otherwise known as Malcolm, Lord Montgomery. Now, I will say that I felt the London League aspect of the book was the weakest part. Perhaps that’s because I hadn’t read the first two and so had no clue who Gent and Rogue and Rook were, but I found all the spy stuff hard to follow. For example, Rook and Rogue get into a fight for some reason at a ball, but it’s never clearly explained why—to throw someone off the scent? But why would a fight change that?—and I found it hard to believe that Malcolm and Gent would then have a conversation, in the ballroom, where they toss around Rook and Rogue’s code names casually, as if no one was around to hear them. I also had no clear idea about the nameless, faceless “enemy” they were facing, though there are mentions of France. Also, if they are spies and no one knows their true identities, why do they all work at the same office building (why have an office building at all??)?
However, besides my confusion with those points, I did enjoy the action and tension that the spy plot gave, as it lended itself well as a break from the more heavily romantic areas of the book. Because the book is, of course, a historical romance, featuring an arranged marriage of a sort and all the romantic angst and atmosphere that one might expect. I thought it was really well done, for the most part, if a bit predictable in some places and too fast-paced in others, and Beth was fairly adorable (though I found her speech at the ball when she broke up Rook and Rogue’s “fight” to be way too over-the-top and cheesy). Both her’s and Malcolm’s motivations and thoughts felt realistic, and their interactions and the development of their relationship were believable, as well as sweet and heartwarming in the right places. But I think my favorite romance of the book was the one between Lily Granger and her husband, even though most of that develops “off-page” and is resolved rather quickly.
A Tip of the Cap was much better than I thought it would be. Though I found a lot of the London League stuff confusing, and its explanation clunky, the main story was interesting, the romance was sweet, and the spy arc helped break up all that sugary stuff and injected some tension and drama that went beyond the normal romantic variety.
August 9, 2025
A Tip of the Cap is a continuation of the London League series (book #3); a six-part series of a group of spies in London during the Regency period. “Cap” is the superior of the group, and he is the Earl of Montgomery who has been a widower of 2 years with 4 young children who desperately need a mother figure.
Beth is a young maiden, the youngest of 10 children from a middle-class family and she has no prospects and looking to be hired on as a governess since she is on her own, and children seem to adore her. A chance meeting with Cap and he instantly knows he will marry her for the children and so proposes on their second meeting making it very clear that it will be a marriage of convenience. She agrees because she has nothing else going for her, and who wouldn’t want to be a wife of an Earl?
While Cap is still mourning his first wife, Beth is pining for her husband and thus begins an unrequited love/marriage of convenience romance with two major plot twists. However, they were predictable to me but that is not unexpected in romance stories. However, one plot device used I found completely out of character. I do not want to say which character as it may be construed as a spoiler.
For the most part I did enjoy the story, and some parts were laugh-out-loud funny, and the novel ended with a satisfactory HEA. I will continue on with the series, because I am invested in the group of characters and want to read the other spies’ stories next. If you like a lighthearted marriage of convenience romance set during the Regency period, then you may enjoy this one. I do recommend starting from the beginning of the series (The Lady and the Gent; link to my review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ) and following along the order of the books. However, it is not absolutely necessary.
3***½*
Beth is a young maiden, the youngest of 10 children from a middle-class family and she has no prospects and looking to be hired on as a governess since she is on her own, and children seem to adore her. A chance meeting with Cap and he instantly knows he will marry her for the children and so proposes on their second meeting making it very clear that it will be a marriage of convenience. She agrees because she has nothing else going for her, and who wouldn’t want to be a wife of an Earl?
While Cap is still mourning his first wife, Beth is pining for her husband and thus begins an unrequited love/marriage of convenience romance with two major plot twists. However, they were predictable to me but that is not unexpected in romance stories. However, one plot device used I found completely out of character. I do not want to say which character as it may be construed as a spoiler.
For the most part I did enjoy the story, and some parts were laugh-out-loud funny, and the novel ended with a satisfactory HEA. I will continue on with the series, because I am invested in the group of characters and want to read the other spies’ stories next. If you like a lighthearted marriage of convenience romance set during the Regency period, then you may enjoy this one. I do recommend starting from the beginning of the series (The Lady and the Gent; link to my review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ) and following along the order of the books. However, it is not absolutely necessary.
3***½*
February 15, 2019
I liked the first two books in the series but I liked this one even more.
This book seemed to be less about the league and more about the marriage and the two didn't meet until the end. All the spy stuff was at a standstill because they couldn't figure out clues to help them and Malcolm spends much of the book with his family instead of doing league work so the two things felt very separate.
I loved the banter between Malcolm and Beth. She was so funny. I smiled and even laughed at her words. And I loved that she worked out her problems by talking to the headstone of the first wife whom she'd never met. Such great therapy for her. I also cried, more than once, real tears while reading. There was a lot of emotion going on during this one. I loved her sweetness with the children and her independence and willingness to do stand up and do what needed to be done in her own way. Thank you Lily for helping Beth see that she could. Lily was a great friend.
In earlier books I was a little annoyed with the banter of the league guys. They are often so rude but this time I really enjoyed them. I love that they pushed Malcolm to do the right thing and were loyal at the same time.
I did have some unanswered questions. What exactly were the bad guys up to and what had the horrible woman planned to do that was thwarted? It was so easily resolved in that moment that I wondered what happened next with her. I'd also like to know what happened with Lily and her husband between the end of the regular book and the epilogue.
I really enjoyed reading this book and loathed interruptions when they came. The creation of conflicts in the marriage relationship did not feel contrived but like they could really happen. And once their relationship really began there was a sweetness between them that I loved. The ending was a bit swoony. So I had lots of feels reading this. I cried, smiled, laughed, worried and swooned.
Sex: Horrible woman continually propositioning and being inappropriate, innuendo, kissing, marital relations occur but not on the page.
Language: a little-mild.
Violence: a little- fencing got a bit out of control.
This book seemed to be less about the league and more about the marriage and the two didn't meet until the end. All the spy stuff was at a standstill because they couldn't figure out clues to help them and Malcolm spends much of the book with his family instead of doing league work so the two things felt very separate.
I loved the banter between Malcolm and Beth. She was so funny. I smiled and even laughed at her words. And I loved that she worked out her problems by talking to the headstone of the first wife whom she'd never met. Such great therapy for her. I also cried, more than once, real tears while reading. There was a lot of emotion going on during this one. I loved her sweetness with the children and her independence and willingness to do stand up and do what needed to be done in her own way. Thank you Lily for helping Beth see that she could. Lily was a great friend.
In earlier books I was a little annoyed with the banter of the league guys. They are often so rude but this time I really enjoyed them. I love that they pushed Malcolm to do the right thing and were loyal at the same time.
I did have some unanswered questions. What exactly were the bad guys up to and what had the horrible woman planned to do that was thwarted? It was so easily resolved in that moment that I wondered what happened next with her. I'd also like to know what happened with Lily and her husband between the end of the regular book and the epilogue.
I really enjoyed reading this book and loathed interruptions when they came. The creation of conflicts in the marriage relationship did not feel contrived but like they could really happen. And once their relationship really began there was a sweetness between them that I loved. The ending was a bit swoony. So I had lots of feels reading this. I cried, smiled, laughed, worried and swooned.
Sex: Horrible woman continually propositioning and being inappropriate, innuendo, kissing, marital relations occur but not on the page.
Language: a little-mild.
Violence: a little- fencing got a bit out of control.
March 7, 2019
A Tip of the Cap
London League #3
By Rebecca Connolly
Malcolm Colerain, Earl of Montgomery, finds himself in a most unenviable position. Two years ago he lost his beloved wife and finds himself in need of a new wife, one who will provide stability and security for his children should he lose his life while in service to the Crown. As a member of the London League, Cap, as he is known to his fellow operatives, is feeling the tightening noose of danger as the French threat grows. Malcolm (aka Monty) knows that his second marriage will be one without affection and one of convenience only for the sake of his children. He could never love another as he loved Caroline.
Elizabeth (Beth) Owens is the youngest of ten children who is in need of employment. She has a way with children and is soon to seek a position that could call upon her skill. She never thought her ease with children would lead to a marriage prospect and to an earl at that. Going into the marriage she knows that love is not a possibility but she never thought that she would be so drawn to the man she now calls husband.
Monty doesn't have time for marriage as he has a duty to thwart and discover treasonous threats posed by French sympathizers. To his consternation, his League colleagues couldn't disagree more with him. Fretting about all he can't be doing Monty soon discovers just what a rare woman he has married. But when tragedy strikes Monty finds his loyalties and his heart torn when he is needed at home and in London.
This is the third book in the London League series and this one the most focuses on the personal life of one of the League members. If you haven't read the two previous books you will be able to easily get into this book with no problem, though you'll surely want to enjoy them at a later date.
Fans of Rebecca Connolly's previous works will enjoy this newest work. If you've never read her before this is a good one to start with. Get ready to take a step back in time with some Regency era intrigue with a dash or two of romance sprinkled in.
London League #3
By Rebecca Connolly
Malcolm Colerain, Earl of Montgomery, finds himself in a most unenviable position. Two years ago he lost his beloved wife and finds himself in need of a new wife, one who will provide stability and security for his children should he lose his life while in service to the Crown. As a member of the London League, Cap, as he is known to his fellow operatives, is feeling the tightening noose of danger as the French threat grows. Malcolm (aka Monty) knows that his second marriage will be one without affection and one of convenience only for the sake of his children. He could never love another as he loved Caroline.
Elizabeth (Beth) Owens is the youngest of ten children who is in need of employment. She has a way with children and is soon to seek a position that could call upon her skill. She never thought her ease with children would lead to a marriage prospect and to an earl at that. Going into the marriage she knows that love is not a possibility but she never thought that she would be so drawn to the man she now calls husband.
Monty doesn't have time for marriage as he has a duty to thwart and discover treasonous threats posed by French sympathizers. To his consternation, his League colleagues couldn't disagree more with him. Fretting about all he can't be doing Monty soon discovers just what a rare woman he has married. But when tragedy strikes Monty finds his loyalties and his heart torn when he is needed at home and in London.
This is the third book in the London League series and this one the most focuses on the personal life of one of the League members. If you haven't read the two previous books you will be able to easily get into this book with no problem, though you'll surely want to enjoy them at a later date.
Fans of Rebecca Connolly's previous works will enjoy this newest work. If you've never read her before this is a good one to start with. Get ready to take a step back in time with some Regency era intrigue with a dash or two of romance sprinkled in.
July 9, 2020
A Marriage of Convenience That Turns Out to be Entirely Inconvenient
Malcolm needs a wife because he knows his 4 children need a mother. He's no where near ready to love again, so when he proposes to Beth, he tells her it will be a marriage without affection . . . or so he thinks.
Beth knows to not expect affection or love in her marriage to Malcolm. The fact that he proposed to her within two weeks of their meeting was enough to make that an accurate deduction; besides the fact that he said as much when he proposed. However, being the youngest of 10 children, with little fortune & considering a life as a governess in order to establish a living for herself; becoming Lady Montgomery was definitely an unexpected, yet pleasant surprise. Especially when that husband is distractingly handsome.
Due to the Cap's spy world going through a slump as it were, a.k.a. the League is receiving Intel but it's not making much sense at present; he finds he is able to be at his country home with his new wife and children more than he expected. And what he discovers about his new wife exceeds all of his expectations - she's smart, fun, capable, beautiful & what's more, his children utterly adore her; she's gently fills the holes in all of their hearts after the passing of their mother, which in turn, utterly endears Beth to him. Malcolm & Beth continue to grow in their friendship, admiration, and affection of each other. However, an unexpected incident may be a testing of this marriage that's establishing new ground. Will this relationship be given the chance to truly grow deep or will it be snuffed out before it's given a chance?
And will all of these "meaningless" clues actually lead to a threat to the Crown or is it something much closer to home for The League? I guess you'll have to read it to find out 😉
Malcolm needs a wife because he knows his 4 children need a mother. He's no where near ready to love again, so when he proposes to Beth, he tells her it will be a marriage without affection . . . or so he thinks.
Beth knows to not expect affection or love in her marriage to Malcolm. The fact that he proposed to her within two weeks of their meeting was enough to make that an accurate deduction; besides the fact that he said as much when he proposed. However, being the youngest of 10 children, with little fortune & considering a life as a governess in order to establish a living for herself; becoming Lady Montgomery was definitely an unexpected, yet pleasant surprise. Especially when that husband is distractingly handsome.
Due to the Cap's spy world going through a slump as it were, a.k.a. the League is receiving Intel but it's not making much sense at present; he finds he is able to be at his country home with his new wife and children more than he expected. And what he discovers about his new wife exceeds all of his expectations - she's smart, fun, capable, beautiful & what's more, his children utterly adore her; she's gently fills the holes in all of their hearts after the passing of their mother, which in turn, utterly endears Beth to him. Malcolm & Beth continue to grow in their friendship, admiration, and affection of each other. However, an unexpected incident may be a testing of this marriage that's establishing new ground. Will this relationship be given the chance to truly grow deep or will it be snuffed out before it's given a chance?
And will all of these "meaningless" clues actually lead to a threat to the Crown or is it something much closer to home for The League? I guess you'll have to read it to find out 😉
March 5, 2019
I adored this book. I enjoy it so much when a story grabs me and pulls me in and I can get lost in the setting, the characters, and the times. This was a marriage of convenience story between an earl, Malcolm, and a woman, Beth, who really has no other prospects but to marry for the convenience. Malcolm who is still very much in love with his first wife is struggling with being both parents to his dear four children. He needs a wife and a woman’s touch with his children. On top of that he is a spy for the crown and needs arise when he may have to be gone for extended periods.
Beth is a very strong woman. She is the 10th child in a genteel but impoverished family and her prospects are not encouraging. When Malcolm proposes this match she goes into it with eyes wide open. I like her portrayal and that she stands on her own two feet and does not back down with Malcolm when common sense needs to rule the day.
There is so much in this story. Malcolm described their marriage as one without affection and I highly enjoyed watching that change. Malcolm and Beth go through a lot in this captivating tale and I didn’t see most of it coming. The author puts their very lives through many tests and my emotions were wrapped up with seeing this lonely couple reach a happily ever after as little scathed as possible. Full of danger and romance this is a book I will read again and again, put on my keeper shelf and think of often. In fact Malcolm and Beth are my new favorite fictional couple. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Beth is a very strong woman. She is the 10th child in a genteel but impoverished family and her prospects are not encouraging. When Malcolm proposes this match she goes into it with eyes wide open. I like her portrayal and that she stands on her own two feet and does not back down with Malcolm when common sense needs to rule the day.
There is so much in this story. Malcolm described their marriage as one without affection and I highly enjoyed watching that change. Malcolm and Beth go through a lot in this captivating tale and I didn’t see most of it coming. The author puts their very lives through many tests and my emotions were wrapped up with seeing this lonely couple reach a happily ever after as little scathed as possible. Full of danger and romance this is a book I will read again and again, put on my keeper shelf and think of often. In fact Malcolm and Beth are my new favorite fictional couple. I highly recommend it.
I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
July 17, 2019
I loved this book. It is the third book ,in the London League of spies. The Earl of Montgomery knows his children need a mother. .He lost his true love Carloline much to young, to an early grave, and the thought of going back out into the marriage Mart makes him sick. He is all the Tons mother could hope for. Malcolm is titled, rich, has a nice manly form, and is very polite, and dashing when he chooses to be. The problem is he doesn't want his bride to be a wife, of comfort, or passion, and neither is she to take the place of their mother in heart. He has no time to attend balls, or woo young misses. His estate runs smooth, and so does his London home. No he only needs someone to care for the children, and be a hostess, in his estate as needed. Invited to a luncheon, at his neighbors, he hears his children laughing, a sound he has not heard much at all, l in the last few years. They are playing games with other children, led by a very engaging woman. He is soon introduced to Elizabeth, who is quite pretty, and refined, even coming from a large family. She meets with him, thinking he will offer her a job as a governess. He has other plans, and she accepts. She agrees to his requirements, adding a few of her own. The children all adore her, and call her the cutest nickname. The story is delightful, and emotional, and there is a spy mystery involved. Plus the characters, from the first two books are back. The children, and their personalities are darling, and easy to become attached to, as well as the main characters. I really adore this series. It is a clean romance, with no vulgar language. There also is no bickering in each chapter. It is a slow burn of sorts, with a few set backs, and a great ending, with an epilogue that I always enjoy. I give it 5 stars.....
December 27, 2024
5 STARS, HISTORICAL ENTICEMENT
A wonderful read of 5 STARS in this historical romance drama with a fast paced well written storyline in this Series: The London League Book 3. Also, a good BLURB is provided. Fantastic characters with some previously met in prior books by this author.
Beth was looking at a grim future because as the 10th child of her improvised yet lower family of the Ton, because now at twenty four years old she was facing having to seek out employment because her entitlement wasn't enough to support her even in her very lean & modest way of living.
Cap or Monty to others has 4 children & his wife died over several years ago. He was friends with Caroline then they had fell in love & that loved each other very deeply & he didn't think he would ever love or want another woman. However, his oldest child was 8 & the youngest was 3 with the other 2 children falling in ages inbetween those ages & his children especially his 2 daughters needed him to have a wife for them & consistently. So he needed a wife for his children but wasn't ready for one or wanted one for himself personally He was also an Earl & would be making the lady a Countess.
Monty attended a party held by one of his late wife's cousins & one of his closest neighbors to his country Estate, but in London. While there a young Lady playing & watching the attending children got his attention & he acquired who she was & found she was another guest & not a sevant. She was the close school friend of his hostesses.
They met and their story begins which is very varied & intriguing. His life as a Spy for the Crown goes on & is quite exciting, too. Lots of action. A page turner.
recommend
A wonderful read of 5 STARS in this historical romance drama with a fast paced well written storyline in this Series: The London League Book 3. Also, a good BLURB is provided. Fantastic characters with some previously met in prior books by this author.
Beth was looking at a grim future because as the 10th child of her improvised yet lower family of the Ton, because now at twenty four years old she was facing having to seek out employment because her entitlement wasn't enough to support her even in her very lean & modest way of living.
Cap or Monty to others has 4 children & his wife died over several years ago. He was friends with Caroline then they had fell in love & that loved each other very deeply & he didn't think he would ever love or want another woman. However, his oldest child was 8 & the youngest was 3 with the other 2 children falling in ages inbetween those ages & his children especially his 2 daughters needed him to have a wife for them & consistently. So he needed a wife for his children but wasn't ready for one or wanted one for himself personally He was also an Earl & would be making the lady a Countess.
Monty attended a party held by one of his late wife's cousins & one of his closest neighbors to his country Estate, but in London. While there a young Lady playing & watching the attending children got his attention & he acquired who she was & found she was another guest & not a sevant. She was the close school friend of his hostesses.
They met and their story begins which is very varied & intriguing. His life as a Spy for the Crown goes on & is quite exciting, too. Lots of action. A page turner.
recommend
May 2, 2019
Oh my goodness, there are so many things I loved about this book. This is such a great series, but I have to say this one is my favorite so far.
Cap is heartbroken after the sudden death of his Beloved wife, Caroline. Now 2 years later, he is determined to marry again for the sake of his children, but he is adamant that it will be an affectionless marriage. His plans however hadn't prepared him for Beth.
Beth is the youngest of ten kids and without the benefit of much of a dowry, scarcely 400 a year to live on, she finds that she must make her own way in the world and lla ming to enter the governess trade, but her life takes an uh unexpected turn when she meets the hands of me gentleman spy leader.
I was not prepared for the emotions this book put me through, there is so much going on, and I couldn't put the book down. A few times I wanted to throttle Cap, but thankfully Gent. Rogue, and Rook were there to knock sense into him.
The intrigue of this story was not predictable, but I will say I had the "bad guy" pegged a bit before the big reveal, though not all the other pieces.
I definitely recommend this series and this book. I would read them in order though. This could be a standalone, but I think it would be harder if you're not already familiar with the main cast of characters.
ROMANCE - Mostly Clean (passionate kissing, fade to black)
Violence - Mild
Language - None
Cap is heartbroken after the sudden death of his Beloved wife, Caroline. Now 2 years later, he is determined to marry again for the sake of his children, but he is adamant that it will be an affectionless marriage. His plans however hadn't prepared him for Beth.
Beth is the youngest of ten kids and without the benefit of much of a dowry, scarcely 400 a year to live on, she finds that she must make her own way in the world and lla ming to enter the governess trade, but her life takes an uh unexpected turn when she meets the hands of me gentleman spy leader.
I was not prepared for the emotions this book put me through, there is so much going on, and I couldn't put the book down. A few times I wanted to throttle Cap, but thankfully Gent. Rogue, and Rook were there to knock sense into him.
The intrigue of this story was not predictable, but I will say I had the "bad guy" pegged a bit before the big reveal, though not all the other pieces.
I definitely recommend this series and this book. I would read them in order though. This could be a standalone, but I think it would be harder if you're not already familiar with the main cast of characters.
ROMANCE - Mostly Clean (passionate kissing, fade to black)
Violence - Mild
Language - None
December 3, 2025
Connolly is a beautiful writer heads above most of her fellow travelers of this genre. Sometimes I read her sentences twice just for the pleasure. I have, however, a mountainous caveat:
A pathological apathy to blindness in a plot .
When she found this device necessary to allow Malcolm‘s emotions.” to be displayed so openly” I stopped reading . Imagine crunching gears in a stick shift. Skimming until the lady site was restored — as we knew it would be —missed something, but the discomfort was insurmountable. Say it was a five course meal with one or two dishes I passed.
Returning to the narrative once that device had fulfilled its purpose the remainder of the book was fast pace, and page turning. It is 2:30 AM.
The entire series is a delight the characters vivid, engaging compelling and inviting you to further explore their persons and their connections You can’t ask for more.
I have already ordered the next title in the series
On the reality front, Trump proved himself to be a bumbling badmouth buffoon over Thanksgiving weekend insulting journalist left, and right a total embarrassment to any dignity of his office
And then we have maximum lethality. Hegseth instructing our military to disregard the rules of combat agreed upon after World War II. His hubris is infinite.
I am thinking of the enormous Chinese weather balloon that was floated across the US years ago
Such arrogance
A pathological apathy to blindness in a plot .
When she found this device necessary to allow Malcolm‘s emotions.” to be displayed so openly” I stopped reading . Imagine crunching gears in a stick shift. Skimming until the lady site was restored — as we knew it would be —missed something, but the discomfort was insurmountable. Say it was a five course meal with one or two dishes I passed.
Returning to the narrative once that device had fulfilled its purpose the remainder of the book was fast pace, and page turning. It is 2:30 AM.
The entire series is a delight the characters vivid, engaging compelling and inviting you to further explore their persons and their connections You can’t ask for more.
I have already ordered the next title in the series
On the reality front, Trump proved himself to be a bumbling badmouth buffoon over Thanksgiving weekend insulting journalist left, and right a total embarrassment to any dignity of his office
And then we have maximum lethality. Hegseth instructing our military to disregard the rules of combat agreed upon after World War II. His hubris is infinite.
I am thinking of the enormous Chinese weather balloon that was floated across the US years ago
Such arrogance
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