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Vanza #4
Lie by Moonlight
While investigating a suspicious death, private inquiry agent Ambrose Wells finds himself on the grounds of Aldwick Castle---and in the midst of utter chaos. The ramshackle castle is in flames--and a beautiful woman and four young girls are taking flight on horseback. It turns out that the strong-minded Miss Concordia Glade and her four bright students are on the run from a notorious London crime lord who'll stop at nothing to destroy them. Now, their only hope is Ambrose, a confirmed loner with more than his share of secrets--and more than his share of desire for the unconventional teacher. And as Ambrose and Concordia risk everything to bring down a criminal mastermind, they will also be forced to battle something even greater: the steamy passion that threatens their hard-worn independence...
321 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
215 people are currently reading
1529 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
93 books5,492 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 302 reviews
April 26, 2021
During the reign of Queen Victoria - when social conventions in England were exceptionally rigid - twentysomething teacher Concordia Glade......
.....has been hired to educate four teenage girls at an 'orphan school' housed in Ardwick Castle.
Concordia gets wind of a scheme that (she thinks) involves selling the girls to brothels so - being an unusually intrepid woman - plans a daring escape.
As it happens, a private inquiry agent named Ambrose Wells is hanging around Ardwick Castle during Concordia's risky flight, and he helps the teacher and her charges get away.
Ambrose then hides the ladies in the home of his wealthy benefactor.
Since Ambrose knows the evil schemers will try to get the girls back, he plans to foil the bad guys and expose them. Concordia insists on helping Ambrose and he (reluctantly) agrees.
Since this is a romantic suspense novel Ambrose and Concordia feel an overpowering mutual attraction, which is very obvious to the teenage girls - who worry that Concordia will be 'ruined' if she kisses Ambrose (or heaven forbid more than that!).
The girls discuss this among themselves and then 'talk to' both Ambrose and Concordia....and these parts are pretty funny.
Ambrose and Concordia have a great deal in common since they both have unusual backgrounds. Ambrose was a 'gentleman thief' and Concordia was born to unmarried parents who promoted free love and good education for women (both unusual in Victorian times).
Step by step - using clever ruses and daring gambits - Concordia and Ambrose uncover the sordid scheme to 'auction off' the girls, which (knowingly or not) involves the benefactor of an orphan school;
the director of the orphan school;
a gentleman who moves in upper social circles;
and a criminal mastermind.
Other characters round out the story, including: Mr. Stoner - a kindly, cultured gentleman who teaches the teenage girls to 'gamble' (play cards.... ha ha ha); Felix - a policeman; and employees at a men's bath house.
There's a good bit of drama and death in the book, and Concordia shows her mettle.
The story has lots of romantic entanglement between Ambrose and Concordia, and some steamy sex. I'm not a big fan of romantic suspense, but I knew what to expect when I started the book (for a reading challenge) - so I won't complain too much. However I don't believe that people get engaged a few days after they meet.
The mystery/suspense part of the story is compelling, there are some surprises, and (I don't think it's a spoiler to say) there's a HEA for fans of love stories.
I'd recommend the book to fans of the romantic suspense genre.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
December 5, 2012
I really enjoyed Lie by Moonlight, and I think a huge part of its charm was listening to it on audio. The narrator has a great voice, she speaks with an English accent, and she modified her voice for the various characters, based on class, gender, and personality. I like how she captured the Victorian feel--both a mystery vibe and a romantic in a classic way vibe. She showed the chemistry that Concordia and Ambrose shared, and also she conveys the sense of family between Concordia and the girls, Edwina, Phoebe, Hannah, and Theodora. How they become a big family along with Ambrose, Mr. Stoner, and Mrs. and Mr. Oates.
The storyline was good. I liked that although Concordia is a woman who carries herself with respect and maturity, she does own up to her rather unconventional upbringing without letting it define her as a person. I really appreciate heroines who are independent, but also rational and thoughtful in their decision-making. Concordia never goes off like a loose cannon, which always seems to invalidate a heroine's intelligence and self-sufficiency to me when I read that in a book. Concordia also showed a lot of heart and integrity in how she protected the young girls in her care. I personally like heroines who believe in doing the right thing and helping those who have been oppressed, disenfranchised, or who are disadvantaged. Although Quick doesn't beat the reader over the head with the history of the Victorian times and how women were treated, especially orphans with no money or status, I could see that as the background for this story. I respected that although Concordia's parents shared one set of values, she didn't feel like she had to adopt their own values for herself when they obviously weren't valid or healthy to her.
Ambrose was a man of mystery and I liked that about him. I liked seeing how his background shaped his future and how he uses his skills to help people, even though he gets a personal high out of shadowy feats of espionage. It was clear that he fell for Concordia fast, but it was also organic how his feelings evolved with each moment he spent with her. I was rooting for Concordia to ask him to marry him, and I loved how he put that ball in her court because he knew she needed to have that sense of authority in her life.
The suspense and mystery elements were good. I didn't truly guess what was going on until the end. I thought things would go in one direction, but with the excellent plotting, Ms. Quick was able to bring the story to a resolution that made sense for the story.
This is my second read by Amanda Quick, Second Sight being the first. I liked Second Sight, but I really liked this one. I am glad I have several other books by Ms. Quick in my collection to read, and I will definitely avail myself of the Quick books on audio at the library when I can.
I do recommend this one on audio. The narrator adds so much to the charm and appeal of this book. Thumbs up from this reader.
Overall rating: 4.25/5.0 stars.
The storyline was good. I liked that although Concordia is a woman who carries herself with respect and maturity, she does own up to her rather unconventional upbringing without letting it define her as a person. I really appreciate heroines who are independent, but also rational and thoughtful in their decision-making. Concordia never goes off like a loose cannon, which always seems to invalidate a heroine's intelligence and self-sufficiency to me when I read that in a book. Concordia also showed a lot of heart and integrity in how she protected the young girls in her care. I personally like heroines who believe in doing the right thing and helping those who have been oppressed, disenfranchised, or who are disadvantaged. Although Quick doesn't beat the reader over the head with the history of the Victorian times and how women were treated, especially orphans with no money or status, I could see that as the background for this story. I respected that although Concordia's parents shared one set of values, she didn't feel like she had to adopt their own values for herself when they obviously weren't valid or healthy to her.
Ambrose was a man of mystery and I liked that about him. I liked seeing how his background shaped his future and how he uses his skills to help people, even though he gets a personal high out of shadowy feats of espionage. It was clear that he fell for Concordia fast, but it was also organic how his feelings evolved with each moment he spent with her. I was rooting for Concordia to ask him to marry him, and I loved how he put that ball in her court because he knew she needed to have that sense of authority in her life.
The suspense and mystery elements were good. I didn't truly guess what was going on until the end. I thought things would go in one direction, but with the excellent plotting, Ms. Quick was able to bring the story to a resolution that made sense for the story.
This is my second read by Amanda Quick, Second Sight being the first. I liked Second Sight, but I really liked this one. I am glad I have several other books by Ms. Quick in my collection to read, and I will definitely avail myself of the Quick books on audio at the library when I can.
I do recommend this one on audio. The narrator adds so much to the charm and appeal of this book. Thumbs up from this reader.
Overall rating: 4.25/5.0 stars.
April 9, 2017
★1.5 Irritated Stars ★
The Vanza series,in my opinion,turned out to be AQ's weakest series compared to her other works.But none of then disappointed or earned a one star from me,as this one.
Weak suspense plot with all the exciting aspects crushed to the last 10%,where the author literally makes the villain narrate every aspect of the 'Evil Plan' so the reader can finally understand what the hell was supposed to have happened this whole time.
Yawn worthy chemistry between our two leads with all most zero character development from the start to the finish.
Can't tell you how glad I am to see this series come to an end :/ Would NOT recommend series overall.
P.S: If you've never come across Amanda Quick's booksbefore and want to give her writing a go,I would probably recommend starting with her Arcane Society series if your searching for a series OR Ravished or Dangerous if ur searching for stand-alone... :)
The Vanza series,in my opinion,turned out to be AQ's weakest series compared to her other works.But none of then disappointed or earned a one star from me,as this one.
Weak suspense plot with all the exciting aspects crushed to the last 10%,where the author literally makes the villain narrate every aspect of the 'Evil Plan' so the reader can finally understand what the hell was supposed to have happened this whole time.
Yawn worthy chemistry between our two leads with all most zero character development from the start to the finish.
Can't tell you how glad I am to see this series come to an end :/ Would NOT recommend series overall.
P.S: If you've never come across Amanda Quick's booksbefore and want to give her writing a go,I would probably recommend starting with her Arcane Society series if your searching for a series OR Ravished or Dangerous if ur searching for stand-alone... :)
July 7, 2015
Lie by Moonlight had the necessary elements that made it a standard Amanda Quick novel--a stoic hero, an eccentric heroine, a mystery, and a love that blossomed under dangerous circumstances--but there was a certain je ne sais quoi to it that made it very special and very unique even to a well-read and avid AQ fan such as myself. I've read so many of her books now that I've come to recognise a familiar formula in most of them, but that never really bothered me because Ms. Quick almost always manage to implement it in an interesting way, and this book was no exception.
I had some hesitations whether to give this 5 stars because frankly, it was more like a Mary Higgins Clark book set in Victorian times than a romance novel. Mystery was definitely the focus here; that became apparent to me halfway through the book. The love scenes were sparse and very tepid, to say the least. Normally, that would have been enough cause for a 1 star deduction because of my personal preferences, but I made allowances for this one, in light of its overall beauty. The characters were well-written and nicely developed; the writing--the pacing, the style, the plot devices--was just right for me. I also appreciated the fact that it captured the Victorian times quite nicely; you could really feel the differences in the setting as people transitioned from the traditional era to a more modern and unconventional future. It was really nice to see the characters tackle the topics of homosexuality and marriage. You don't really see that a lot in historical romance.
This is definitely a book that I won't mind re-reading in the future. If you're not particular about the lack of passionate love scenes, and if you enjoy a well-written mystery plot, then this book is just for you.
I had some hesitations whether to give this 5 stars because frankly, it was more like a Mary Higgins Clark book set in Victorian times than a romance novel. Mystery was definitely the focus here; that became apparent to me halfway through the book. The love scenes were sparse and very tepid, to say the least. Normally, that would have been enough cause for a 1 star deduction because of my personal preferences, but I made allowances for this one, in light of its overall beauty. The characters were well-written and nicely developed; the writing--the pacing, the style, the plot devices--was just right for me. I also appreciated the fact that it captured the Victorian times quite nicely; you could really feel the differences in the setting as people transitioned from the traditional era to a more modern and unconventional future. It was really nice to see the characters tackle the topics of homosexuality and marriage. You don't really see that a lot in historical romance.
This is definitely a book that I won't mind re-reading in the future. If you're not particular about the lack of passionate love scenes, and if you enjoy a well-written mystery plot, then this book is just for you.
May 19, 2019
I realized today I never reviewed this book. It's one of my all-time favorite Amanda Quick novels.
A lot of folks do not like her "Vanza" books--too much "woo woo" for them. I, however, love woo-woo, so I can handle the funky paranormal stuff.
This book does not really have any woo-woo. It does have an excellent mystery, wonderful characters, a super satisfying romance, and an ending that made me cry. I know. Can you believe that? I cried quite a bit last night at the end of this re-read.
Some highlights: Ambrose is a typical AQ hero: street-smart, mysterious, very masculine, strong, and the perfect balance of beta and alpha. He is strong and commanding when necessary, but also steps aside for his equally strong female partner to do her thing. I adore AQ heroes for just this reason.
Concordia is absolutely fabulous. She is straight-up fierce and courageous. And her unexpected chemistry with Ambrose is adorable. Swoony!
SPOILER ALERT: The last chapter is so perfect. All the girls in the orphanage--who have been living in utter misery--are about to start a new life with Concordia as their new headmistress. This ending is so optimistic and sweet and lovely, and the wonderful gesture of giving each girl a gift of a "Vanza" parasol as they venture out to start their new lives made me tear up in a big way.
Sigh.
AQ's writing is sheer perfection for me as a reader. She captures the essence of her characters with a minimal of fuss. She makes a scene very sexy without graphic details. She hits all the emotional high-points with excellent pacing and just the right amount of detail.
She's my role model in the romance genre.
This book is lovely!
Grade: A
A lot of folks do not like her "Vanza" books--too much "woo woo" for them. I, however, love woo-woo, so I can handle the funky paranormal stuff.
This book does not really have any woo-woo. It does have an excellent mystery, wonderful characters, a super satisfying romance, and an ending that made me cry. I know. Can you believe that? I cried quite a bit last night at the end of this re-read.
Some highlights: Ambrose is a typical AQ hero: street-smart, mysterious, very masculine, strong, and the perfect balance of beta and alpha. He is strong and commanding when necessary, but also steps aside for his equally strong female partner to do her thing. I adore AQ heroes for just this reason.
Concordia is absolutely fabulous. She is straight-up fierce and courageous. And her unexpected chemistry with Ambrose is adorable. Swoony!
SPOILER ALERT: The last chapter is so perfect. All the girls in the orphanage--who have been living in utter misery--are about to start a new life with Concordia as their new headmistress. This ending is so optimistic and sweet and lovely, and the wonderful gesture of giving each girl a gift of a "Vanza" parasol as they venture out to start their new lives made me tear up in a big way.
Sigh.
AQ's writing is sheer perfection for me as a reader. She captures the essence of her characters with a minimal of fuss. She makes a scene very sexy without graphic details. She hits all the emotional high-points with excellent pacing and just the right amount of detail.
She's my role model in the romance genre.
This book is lovely!
Grade: A
December 30, 2016
Of the eight romance novels I’ve read over the last two years, I’ve only rated three better than 2 stars. That’s a lot of bad romance, especially considering the affection with which I used to regard the genre. I was surprised and delighted to find that Lies By Midnight bucks this sorry trend. Perhaps I’ve not become a romance curmudgeon after all.
Plot: Unconventional heroine meets unconventional hero while engaging in heroic activities. Mystery ensues. Growing attraction building to a… climax. Secrets kept, then revealed. Everyone lives happily ever after, except the bad guys who get their just desserts.
I hope I haven’t spoiled this for anyone except those unfamiliar with the standard historical romance formula. But what makes this story so much fun is the unconventionality of the characters and the few small ways in which the author deviates from the standard formula. There is no forced love. No rape or dub con, although the spectre of those things features in the plot – in its proper place, as a crime and moral outrage. The female characters all have agency, even over their own sexuality. There is genuine humor, especially in the ways in which the author breaks some of the usual romance tropes.
The only time I became impatient and eye-rolly with this book is toward the end, where the author inexplicably switches from treating the reader to intriguingly small plot reveals to 7 full pages of the main characters sitting around and explaining the entire (now solved) mystery to each other. The author redeems herself, then, with an adorable romantic resolution between hero and heroine and in her setup for their happily ever after.
Plot: Unconventional heroine meets unconventional hero while engaging in heroic activities. Mystery ensues. Growing attraction building to a… climax. Secrets kept, then revealed. Everyone lives happily ever after, except the bad guys who get their just desserts.
I hope I haven’t spoiled this for anyone except those unfamiliar with the standard historical romance formula. But what makes this story so much fun is the unconventionality of the characters and the few small ways in which the author deviates from the standard formula. There is no forced love. No rape or dub con, although the spectre of those things features in the plot – in its proper place, as a crime and moral outrage. The female characters all have agency, even over their own sexuality. There is genuine humor, especially in the ways in which the author breaks some of the usual romance tropes.
The only time I became impatient and eye-rolly with this book is toward the end, where the author inexplicably switches from treating the reader to intriguingly small plot reveals to 7 full pages of the main characters sitting around and explaining the entire (now solved) mystery to each other. The author redeems herself, then, with an adorable romantic resolution between hero and heroine and in her setup for their happily ever after.
October 23, 2017
Lie by Moonlight
3.5 Stars
Private inquiry agent, Ambrose Wells, is investigating a suspicious death when he crosses paths with Concordia Glade and her four students escaping from a blazing castle. Soon Concordia and Ambrose are working together to stop a notorious crime lord from carrying out his nefarious plan for the girls.
Anyone who has read Quick's Arcane Society books will immediately recognize Ambrose and Concordia as they are virtually identical to every hero and heroine in that series. While this isn't necessarily negative as Quick's characters are always endearing, it does make for a rather unoriginal romance.
Both Ambrose and Concordia have intriguing backstories, but neither really contribute to their characterization in any meaningful sense. Although there is a definite attraction between the two, it remains underdeveloped and the eventual sex scenes feel contrived.
The mystery is better with one or two interesting twists and an exciting climax. The Vanza elements are, thankfully, kept to a minimum here and the book is more readable without them.
All in all, a typical Amanda Quick story with likeable characters and a solid mystery. Not recommended for newbies to her books though.
3.5 Stars
Private inquiry agent, Ambrose Wells, is investigating a suspicious death when he crosses paths with Concordia Glade and her four students escaping from a blazing castle. Soon Concordia and Ambrose are working together to stop a notorious crime lord from carrying out his nefarious plan for the girls.
Anyone who has read Quick's Arcane Society books will immediately recognize Ambrose and Concordia as they are virtually identical to every hero and heroine in that series. While this isn't necessarily negative as Quick's characters are always endearing, it does make for a rather unoriginal romance.
Both Ambrose and Concordia have intriguing backstories, but neither really contribute to their characterization in any meaningful sense. Although there is a definite attraction between the two, it remains underdeveloped and the eventual sex scenes feel contrived.
The mystery is better with one or two interesting twists and an exciting climax. The Vanza elements are, thankfully, kept to a minimum here and the book is more readable without them.
All in all, a typical Amanda Quick story with likeable characters and a solid mystery. Not recommended for newbies to her books though.
September 15, 2016
The story revolves around Ambrose and Concordia, caught in something they can't walk away from.
The book starts with an escape attempt. Concordia, a teacher, helps her students escape a disturbing boarding school. They are helped by a mysterious man, Ambrose Wells, who leads them to safety.
Ambrose and Concordia were equals in every possible way. Both had a mysterious past, an unconventional upbringing and were unusual in their professional approach. Both were big believers in planning and guarding their secrets.
The students that escaped are 4 young girls who have recently lost their families and find themselves alone in the world. Concordia believes that the girls were to be trained as exclusive courtesans. Ambrose informs them that they are all in danger and Concordia has caught the attention of a notorious crime lord. Ambrose doubts that there is more to the story.
Staying together kept them safe and added intimacy to a tense situation. Concordia and Ambrose were kindred spirits, progressive, practical, wary and a little lonely. Ambrose interacting with Concordia and the girls was adorable. He went out of his way to make them feel welcome and safe.
This book had a great mystery, some danger and a vast pool of suspects who went missing. Normal people going missing was a trivial issue in Victorian London and was not considered a cause for alarm. This highlighted how class and
economic forces shaped lives at every turn.
This book emphasized equality between the sexes. Concordia is a modern woman who plans to open an exclusive school for young women. Ambrose was supportive of this notion and praised her dedication. This one is rare, even in the fictional world.
"My school will be founded on the same notions of education that inspired my parents,” she said. “They were convinced, and I agree, that a broad, wide-ranging curriculum not only develops powers of logic and reasoning in young ladies, it will prepare them for the various professions and careers. It is my firm conviction that young ladies who are equipped to make their own way in life will no longer feel pressured to marry for reasons of financial necessity.”
"When one was alone in the world, there was a tendency to cling very tightly to whatever had personal meaning."
The story also highlighted how women had limited options during this period and it affected their lives in an adverse manner. Losing your parents meant losing your right to education, security and family. Losing your inheritance meant being forced to compromise on every matter. Working in trade meant losing your reputation in Polite Society.
I loved that the author packed so much into a story with great skill. There was mystery, romance, humour, atmosphere without boring, lengthy descriptions, social commentary without sounding preachy and an awesome ending.
Tiramisu points for a balanced, layered story.
The book starts with an escape attempt. Concordia, a teacher, helps her students escape a disturbing boarding school. They are helped by a mysterious man, Ambrose Wells, who leads them to safety.
Ambrose and Concordia were equals in every possible way. Both had a mysterious past, an unconventional upbringing and were unusual in their professional approach. Both were big believers in planning and guarding their secrets.
The students that escaped are 4 young girls who have recently lost their families and find themselves alone in the world. Concordia believes that the girls were to be trained as exclusive courtesans. Ambrose informs them that they are all in danger and Concordia has caught the attention of a notorious crime lord. Ambrose doubts that there is more to the story.
Staying together kept them safe and added intimacy to a tense situation. Concordia and Ambrose were kindred spirits, progressive, practical, wary and a little lonely. Ambrose interacting with Concordia and the girls was adorable. He went out of his way to make them feel welcome and safe.
This book had a great mystery, some danger and a vast pool of suspects who went missing. Normal people going missing was a trivial issue in Victorian London and was not considered a cause for alarm. This highlighted how class and
economic forces shaped lives at every turn.
This book emphasized equality between the sexes. Concordia is a modern woman who plans to open an exclusive school for young women. Ambrose was supportive of this notion and praised her dedication. This one is rare, even in the fictional world.
"My school will be founded on the same notions of education that inspired my parents,” she said. “They were convinced, and I agree, that a broad, wide-ranging curriculum not only develops powers of logic and reasoning in young ladies, it will prepare them for the various professions and careers. It is my firm conviction that young ladies who are equipped to make their own way in life will no longer feel pressured to marry for reasons of financial necessity.”
"When one was alone in the world, there was a tendency to cling very tightly to whatever had personal meaning."
The story also highlighted how women had limited options during this period and it affected their lives in an adverse manner. Losing your parents meant losing your right to education, security and family. Losing your inheritance meant being forced to compromise on every matter. Working in trade meant losing your reputation in Polite Society.
I loved that the author packed so much into a story with great skill. There was mystery, romance, humour, atmosphere without boring, lengthy descriptions, social commentary without sounding preachy and an awesome ending.
Tiramisu points for a balanced, layered story.
June 29, 2021
3 stars, not a favorite by this author. The story overall was pretty good but the romance felt very lacking. I didn’t like the way that the hero put all the responsibility of a marriage proposal on the heroine’s shoulders. He told her to propose to him… which just didn’t work for me. I think he figured out his feelings towards her pretty early on, but he didn’t confess until after she already had. I prefer a hero who puts forth more effort, and that just wasn’t the case in this book. Also, the heroine made a couple of REALLY BAD DECISIONS that seemed ridiculous considering how much she normally thought out her actions.
Safe; virgin heroine
TW: kidnapping
Safe; virgin heroine
TW: kidnapping
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2018
2018 - It's really too bad the author didn't carry on with this heroine and hero. With the four younger women who were rescued, there could have been several reasonable spin-off stories. Am upping this to 4 stars.
2015 - Enjoyed the mystery elements of this very much, stronger heroine than #1 in this series.
2015 - Enjoyed the mystery elements of this very much, stronger heroine than #1 in this series.
June 14, 2024
Entertaining Victorian romantic suspense
Independently wealthy, 34-year-old Ambrose Wells keeps himself busy by solving crimes as a highly skilled, private inquiry agent. Because he doesn't need money, he tells his clients, who are typically far from prosperous, to pay him by offering him a favor in return for his services. Typically it is something they can easily afford. His current case is solving the murder of a young woman who worked at the public baths in London. She was found dead, floating in one of the pools at the bathhouse. Her death was declared accidental by Scotland Yard, but her sister, who has asked for Ambrose's help, is convinced she was murdered.
Concordia Glade is the 26-year-old teacher of four teenage girls. All of the girls and Concordia herself are orphans, alone in the world without family support. When Concordia discovers the dastardly fate that is planned for the girls by a London crime lord, she is determined to rescue them. In the midst of the valiant escape she has engineered, Ambrose shows up, because he is convinced that this same crime lord is the murderer whom he is determined to bring to justice.
I really enjoyed this novel, even though I don't typically read historical romances from the Victorian era. Both Cordelia and Ambrose are strong, competent, compassionate, and highly ethical individuals, who are an excellent match for each other. There is not only strong sexual chemistry between them, but they are intellectually and philosophically compatible.
In addition to the romance itself, which is the core of the story, I really enjoyed the relationship between Cordelia and her four students, with whom she forms a very strong "found family" AKA "family of affiliation" relationship. That is one of my favorite tropes in romance and women's fiction.
There is plenty of action in this story, with multiple villains, including a villain who came as a complete surprise to me, and who is not revealed until near the end of the novel.
This is the fourth book in the Vanza series. It is loosely linked to the other three, and can easily be read out of order as a a standalone novel.
I obtained access to the audiobook version of this novel for free through Hoopla. Though the first three books are narrated by the fabulous Barbara Rosenblat, this book is narrated by Louisa Jane Underwood. She does a good job, but she's not as fabulous as BR.
Independently wealthy, 34-year-old Ambrose Wells keeps himself busy by solving crimes as a highly skilled, private inquiry agent. Because he doesn't need money, he tells his clients, who are typically far from prosperous, to pay him by offering him a favor in return for his services. Typically it is something they can easily afford. His current case is solving the murder of a young woman who worked at the public baths in London. She was found dead, floating in one of the pools at the bathhouse. Her death was declared accidental by Scotland Yard, but her sister, who has asked for Ambrose's help, is convinced she was murdered.
Concordia Glade is the 26-year-old teacher of four teenage girls. All of the girls and Concordia herself are orphans, alone in the world without family support. When Concordia discovers the dastardly fate that is planned for the girls by a London crime lord, she is determined to rescue them. In the midst of the valiant escape she has engineered, Ambrose shows up, because he is convinced that this same crime lord is the murderer whom he is determined to bring to justice.
I really enjoyed this novel, even though I don't typically read historical romances from the Victorian era. Both Cordelia and Ambrose are strong, competent, compassionate, and highly ethical individuals, who are an excellent match for each other. There is not only strong sexual chemistry between them, but they are intellectually and philosophically compatible.
In addition to the romance itself, which is the core of the story, I really enjoyed the relationship between Cordelia and her four students, with whom she forms a very strong "found family" AKA "family of affiliation" relationship. That is one of my favorite tropes in romance and women's fiction.
There is plenty of action in this story, with multiple villains, including a villain who came as a complete surprise to me, and who is not revealed until near the end of the novel.
This is the fourth book in the Vanza series. It is loosely linked to the other three, and can easily be read out of order as a a standalone novel.
I obtained access to the audiobook version of this novel for free through Hoopla. Though the first three books are narrated by the fabulous Barbara Rosenblat, this book is narrated by Louisa Jane Underwood. She does a good job, but she's not as fabulous as BR.
January 16, 2012
I like romance, I like historicals, I like mystery. Amanda Quick combines all 3 like no other, with more than a dash of that invaluable ingredient--humor. An author whose books I reread again and again. I own them all!
July 22, 2012
I am becoming a fan of her books. This one held my interest, and the interaction between the characters was superb. I loved the mystery and the whole story really flew off the pages. Finished it in one day, up until 3 am to finish...would recommend this one!
November 20, 2021
I don't know how this series escaped my notice! They contained wonderful, intriguing mysteries, snappy, clever dialogue and memorable characters. It is fabulous! Better late than never. ;)
January 1, 2021
Not much to say here - fans of Ms. Quick (of which I am one) will find a lot of comforting familiarity in this ostensible end of the Vanza series. The Vanza lore matters little in this book - which is actually good as I disliked the mix between orientalist and weirdly supernatural (?) fantasy that the other books had.
This book works pretty much like a straight mystery with a strong dollop of romance. For people who read Ms. Quick romantic suspense books will know the story beats here. The mystery is fairly simple and the romance is between a sassy heroine (who is “modern”) and a taciturn but competent hero who “learns to love”.
I will say that the heroine does say the following:
“.... it would be best if you and I were to put our connection on a businesslike footing...”
🤦♀🤦♀🤦♀
I think every Vanza heroine has used this line - Ms. Quick some variation please
No real surprises here so the three star rating is for the comforting nature of the read. And for the focus on the mystery which kept the plot ticking along. The side characters of the young girl helped keep me engaged - and the purple prose was just enough to keep me giggling but not annoying.
I loved how easy the writing was - “the transports of passion” entertained me. - I always feel that Ms. Quick does it deliberately for her fans.
3 stars for the comfort of the read - yes some of it has to do with the year-end nature of the read where I was looking for the routine. But ah well, good choice on my part then.
This book works pretty much like a straight mystery with a strong dollop of romance. For people who read Ms. Quick romantic suspense books will know the story beats here. The mystery is fairly simple and the romance is between a sassy heroine (who is “modern”) and a taciturn but competent hero who “learns to love”.
I will say that the heroine does say the following:
“.... it would be best if you and I were to put our connection on a businesslike footing...”
🤦♀🤦♀🤦♀
I think every Vanza heroine has used this line - Ms. Quick some variation please
No real surprises here so the three star rating is for the comforting nature of the read. And for the focus on the mystery which kept the plot ticking along. The side characters of the young girl helped keep me engaged - and the purple prose was just enough to keep me giggling but not annoying.
I loved how easy the writing was - “the transports of passion” entertained me. - I always feel that Ms. Quick does it deliberately for her fans.
3 stars for the comfort of the read - yes some of it has to do with the year-end nature of the read where I was looking for the routine. But ah well, good choice on my part then.
February 14, 2021
Novel ini mengetengahkan romansa antara seorang tutor wanita dgn seorang penyidik, bertemu saat pelarian "aneh" dimana Concordia- nama tutor wanita itu bersama 4 murid wanitanya.
Penyelidikan mereka mengarah pd sindikat perdagangan wanita, dan Concordia mencurigai anak-anak didiknya ini akan dijadikan pelacur utk kelas bangsawan tinggi. Selain itu, Ambrose dan Concordia mendapatkan diri mereka tertarik satu sama lain.
Sekali lagi novel author bikin ngantuk. Plot cerita berbelit-belit tapi bukannya bikin penasaran, malah bikin sebel. Semuanya serba nanggung, baik misteri maupun romance-nya. Malah motif kejahatan baru diungkapkan di akhir cerita.
Tokoh Concordia kalau dibilang feminis, juga nanggung. Kesan sok tangguh ogah menikah tapi akhirnya mau juga, alias plin-plan gitu deh. Ambrose juga standar hero aja, mantan maling yg bertobat menjadi penyidik, dibilang bad boy kagak, good man kagak juga. Entah apa yg bikin orang-orang suka sama buku ini.
Penyelidikan mereka mengarah pd sindikat perdagangan wanita, dan Concordia mencurigai anak-anak didiknya ini akan dijadikan pelacur utk kelas bangsawan tinggi. Selain itu, Ambrose dan Concordia mendapatkan diri mereka tertarik satu sama lain.
Sekali lagi novel author bikin ngantuk. Plot cerita berbelit-belit tapi bukannya bikin penasaran, malah bikin sebel. Semuanya serba nanggung, baik misteri maupun romance-nya. Malah motif kejahatan baru diungkapkan di akhir cerita.
Tokoh Concordia kalau dibilang feminis, juga nanggung. Kesan sok tangguh ogah menikah tapi akhirnya mau juga, alias plin-plan gitu deh. Ambrose juga standar hero aja, mantan maling yg bertobat menjadi penyidik, dibilang bad boy kagak, good man kagak juga. Entah apa yg bikin orang-orang suka sama buku ini.
January 8, 2012
An enjoyable read and an intriguing mystery.
Amanda Quick seems to get better with each new book. She also seems to be one of the few romance writers who can come up with a heroine -- Concordia Glade, in this story -- who is more than just the usual Lady Doormat. Concordia has a backbone without being a b**ch, is sensitive without being simpering and intelligent without over-apologizing for it. She's a woman with modern ideals trapped in a time where that and her unusual upbringing are scandalous to proper society. She has to hide who and what she is just to survive and to do what she loves, to teach.
Ambrose Wells could easily have been the Lord Neanderthal of so many other bad romance novels, tall, dark, overbearing and condescending. But Ms. Quick doesn't allow him to degenerate into that cliché. Of course he has a mysterious past and he's incredibly handsome, but he respects Concordia instead of trying to dominate her. He works *with* Concordia, not around her in order to protect her young pupils and to solve the multiple murder mystery. Like any man of the time he would certainly prefer it if she didn't put herself in so much danger and allowed herself to be protected more, but once he realizes she's not the type of woman to cry for help and hide behind a man, he learns to accept that and her, and to love her for who she is instead of despite it.
The mystery itself is a good one. Why were the girls taken from orphanages and tutored like Ladies? The answer isn't as easy as it first seems, although Concordia's conclusions were logical given the information she had. I certainly didn't see the bigger picture until she and Ambrose were able to dig further into things. The story moves along at a fast pace and there are some genuine surprises along the way, twists in the plot I never saw coming.
I'd actually recommend this book to people as good fiction, and since I usually mock romances for fun, that's saying a great deal.
Amanda Quick seems to get better with each new book. She also seems to be one of the few romance writers who can come up with a heroine -- Concordia Glade, in this story -- who is more than just the usual Lady Doormat. Concordia has a backbone without being a b**ch, is sensitive without being simpering and intelligent without over-apologizing for it. She's a woman with modern ideals trapped in a time where that and her unusual upbringing are scandalous to proper society. She has to hide who and what she is just to survive and to do what she loves, to teach.
Ambrose Wells could easily have been the Lord Neanderthal of so many other bad romance novels, tall, dark, overbearing and condescending. But Ms. Quick doesn't allow him to degenerate into that cliché. Of course he has a mysterious past and he's incredibly handsome, but he respects Concordia instead of trying to dominate her. He works *with* Concordia, not around her in order to protect her young pupils and to solve the multiple murder mystery. Like any man of the time he would certainly prefer it if she didn't put herself in so much danger and allowed herself to be protected more, but once he realizes she's not the type of woman to cry for help and hide behind a man, he learns to accept that and her, and to love her for who she is instead of despite it.
The mystery itself is a good one. Why were the girls taken from orphanages and tutored like Ladies? The answer isn't as easy as it first seems, although Concordia's conclusions were logical given the information she had. I certainly didn't see the bigger picture until she and Ambrose were able to dig further into things. The story moves along at a fast pace and there are some genuine surprises along the way, twists in the plot I never saw coming.
I'd actually recommend this book to people as good fiction, and since I usually mock romances for fun, that's saying a great deal.
March 7, 2016
This is one of my all-time favorite Amanda Quick books and when I saw it on audiobook, I snagged it. Ann Flosnik is an amazing narrator and certainly does this justice.
I adore this book for many reasons. I love the heroine and her unconventionality. I love that the hero loves her unconventionality. I love that the students love their teacher and consider her a fantastic role model but also stick up for her (although it is unnecessary). I love that the hero doesn't take money for his services from people, but rather a good deed or product they can easily pass on. I love that the hero's best friend is gay, but it isn't a big deal (which I know wouldn't be the case in Victorian London, but everyone in the story is unconventional so it's totally cool!). This is a story that is not set in ballrooms and I love that, too. The ending always makes me misty...and the audiobook did, too. I recommend this book very much! A
I adore this book for many reasons. I love the heroine and her unconventionality. I love that the hero loves her unconventionality. I love that the students love their teacher and consider her a fantastic role model but also stick up for her (although it is unnecessary). I love that the hero doesn't take money for his services from people, but rather a good deed or product they can easily pass on. I love that the hero's best friend is gay, but it isn't a big deal (which I know wouldn't be the case in Victorian London, but everyone in the story is unconventional so it's totally cool!). This is a story that is not set in ballrooms and I love that, too. The ending always makes me misty...and the audiobook did, too. I recommend this book very much! A
September 6, 2012
It was the first of Amanda Quick that i read and i LOVED it. Others which i read later, i found very lengthy and not upto its liking.
August 18, 2010
i only read this one! i didnt even realize it was a series!
July 29, 2012
One of the best romance books I have read in a really long time. The ending even left a happy tearful smile on my face.
December 26, 2012
This is the best of the series.
February 21, 2016
5 stars!
I was initially going to give this 4.5 stars, but that ending pushed it to a full 5. No wonder this is the last Vanza book. I did not see that nice twist coming.
I was initially going to give this 4.5 stars, but that ending pushed it to a full 5. No wonder this is the last Vanza book. I did not see that nice twist coming.
November 29, 2025
Books I own. Mad About Series HRBC Challenge 2025. Tropes: Victorian Romance, Romance/Mystery, Love at First Sight, Law Enforcement/Spy, Matchmaker (4 young ladies), Governess (Teacher).
MC's h. Concordia Glade, governess/teacher, orphaned as a teen, ended up as a governess at Atkinson Castle teaching 4 young orphans.
H. Ambrose Wells, private investigator, trained by John Stoner in Vanza along with his friend Richard Dixen, Scotland Yard. Both young men, Ambrose and Richard were caught by John, breaking into his home. He offered to teach them the Vanza method and made them his heirs. They had no need to keep stealing but turned over a new leaf to do good.
Ambrose and Concordia meet while she and her 4 charges were escaping confinement at Atkinson Castle. They set off 2 explosions and met up with Ambrose while fleeing the seen. Ambrose and Concordia rode the same horse and there was insta attraction.
Ambrose settles them into his (John Stoner's home) to stay until the case is solved. Both Concordia and Ambrose work the case together. The more they are left alone, the more they are attracted to each other. Ambrose kisses her and they get carried away. Eventually they sleep together. After both incidences the 4 girls confront Ambrose as Concordia's chaperones suggesting he do the right thing and marry her. (Cute)
Ambrose and Concordia solve the case. The two men behind the scheme to sell the 4 young orphans to the highest bidder are a East London Mafia Kingpin and a Lord Mr. Timley. The both end up dying and they think the case is closed.
They discover almost too late there is a third partner, actually it was her idea for the scheme. It was Miss Pratt the headmistress of Winslow school for girls with Mrs. Hoxton as the Proprietess. Ambrose came to the rescue, Concordia's Knight in Shining Armor, saving her from Miss Pratt's attempt to kill her.
The plan was to offer the heiress's to the hightest bidder. A man who wanted to be accepted into society. The girls's reputations were impeccable. Once the heiresses were married they could claim their inheritance. Miss Pratt went to jail for her crimes.
Concordia asked Ambrose to marry her after he told her he loved her. They were going to make love in the kitchen but, the dogs, John Stoner and the the four girls interupted, asking if she proposed yet. A HEA.
Concordia took over the orphan school for girls as the Headmistress and John Stoner was going to teach Vanza to all the girls. Her four students were going to do their practicum as teachers at the school.
Opinion: This was a lovely balance of murder mystery and romance with the MC's Ambrose and Concordia. The group all bonded and became a family. John Stoner, Ambrose Wells and Richard Dixon were a family and Concordia and the 4 girls became a family and once Ambrose and Concordia fell in love they all became a big happy family. A sweet romance and mystery.
I gave this 4 stars. Out of the four books only the second and third were connected through the characters. All four were connected through Vanza.
MC's h. Concordia Glade, governess/teacher, orphaned as a teen, ended up as a governess at Atkinson Castle teaching 4 young orphans.
H. Ambrose Wells, private investigator, trained by John Stoner in Vanza along with his friend Richard Dixen, Scotland Yard. Both young men, Ambrose and Richard were caught by John, breaking into his home. He offered to teach them the Vanza method and made them his heirs. They had no need to keep stealing but turned over a new leaf to do good.
Ambrose and Concordia meet while she and her 4 charges were escaping confinement at Atkinson Castle. They set off 2 explosions and met up with Ambrose while fleeing the seen. Ambrose and Concordia rode the same horse and there was insta attraction.
Ambrose settles them into his (John Stoner's home) to stay until the case is solved. Both Concordia and Ambrose work the case together. The more they are left alone, the more they are attracted to each other. Ambrose kisses her and they get carried away. Eventually they sleep together. After both incidences the 4 girls confront Ambrose as Concordia's chaperones suggesting he do the right thing and marry her. (Cute)
Ambrose and Concordia solve the case. The two men behind the scheme to sell the 4 young orphans to the highest bidder are a East London Mafia Kingpin and a Lord Mr. Timley. The both end up dying and they think the case is closed.
They discover almost too late there is a third partner, actually it was her idea for the scheme. It was Miss Pratt the headmistress of Winslow school for girls with Mrs. Hoxton as the Proprietess. Ambrose came to the rescue, Concordia's Knight in Shining Armor, saving her from Miss Pratt's attempt to kill her.
The plan was to offer the heiress's to the hightest bidder. A man who wanted to be accepted into society. The girls's reputations were impeccable. Once the heiresses were married they could claim their inheritance. Miss Pratt went to jail for her crimes.
Concordia asked Ambrose to marry her after he told her he loved her. They were going to make love in the kitchen but, the dogs, John Stoner and the the four girls interupted, asking if she proposed yet. A HEA.
Concordia took over the orphan school for girls as the Headmistress and John Stoner was going to teach Vanza to all the girls. Her four students were going to do their practicum as teachers at the school.
Opinion: This was a lovely balance of murder mystery and romance with the MC's Ambrose and Concordia. The group all bonded and became a family. John Stoner, Ambrose Wells and Richard Dixon were a family and Concordia and the 4 girls became a family and once Ambrose and Concordia fell in love they all became a big happy family. A sweet romance and mystery.
I gave this 4 stars. Out of the four books only the second and third were connected through the characters. All four were connected through Vanza.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2020
That is one troubling aspect of doing things in a modern, unconventional style, I'm afraid. Granted, it makes for an interesting change. Unfortunately, one cannot always be assured that, when it is all said and done, one will find that one is better off than when things were done the old-fashioned way.
This book fell into my hands by accident, and I am glad to have read this as a light read.
This is a romantic thriller, with a strong female lead and an equally strong male counterpart. The book is set in London during the Victorian era.
If I say anything else, there would be more spoilers, hence, let me stop here right away.
If you are having a gloomy day, this is the book for you.
This book fell into my hands by accident, and I am glad to have read this as a light read.
This is a romantic thriller, with a strong female lead and an equally strong male counterpart. The book is set in London during the Victorian era.
If I say anything else, there would be more spoilers, hence, let me stop here right away.
If you are having a gloomy day, this is the book for you.
December 31, 2019
Bueno romántico con misterio. Libro ligero para estas fiestas
May 26, 2022
След и тази книга, осъзнавам, че историческите романси на Аманда Куик са ми твърде безинтересни. През цялото време ми беше скучно и твърде наивно, нямаше нещо, което да ме впечатли или нещо, което да остане в съзнанието ми след известно време. Мисля, че съвременните й истории са много по-добри и ще продължа с тях.
May 19, 2010
With every Amanda Quick book I read I seem to find my new favorite couple but Concordia Glade and Ambrose Wells have got to be the absolute best couple (or at least equal with Lavinia Lake and Tobias March). She is intelligent (of course), resourceful, perceptive and a fierce protector of her students. He is the embodiment of the knightly virtues. It is a joy to watch them fall in love.
The wit and humor in Lie by Moonlight had me literally laughing out loud. The mystery of Aldwick Castle and the intentions of the villains toward the four young girls kept me guessing. The characters, even the secondary ones, are quite vivid. In fact, I could easily see this being adapted as a theatrical release.
The Vanza Society is not as central to the story as in the other books in the series but it warmed my heart to read in the conclusion that Mr. Stoner would be instructing the girls in the arts of Vanza.
The wit and humor in Lie by Moonlight had me literally laughing out loud. The mystery of Aldwick Castle and the intentions of the villains toward the four young girls kept me guessing. The characters, even the secondary ones, are quite vivid. In fact, I could easily see this being adapted as a theatrical release.
The Vanza Society is not as central to the story as in the other books in the series but it warmed my heart to read in the conclusion that Mr. Stoner would be instructing the girls in the arts of Vanza.
February 26, 2024
Why 5 stars for a book that's easy, cozy read and gives you that predictable feeling, atmosphere and outcome? I mean, why not? How best to defend this and every other modest, non-pretentious historical romance? Don't know, but will try to do in the future.
I guess it's not easy to write cozy stuff and also stay not to close to clichés, nonsense or ignorance. As a fan of A. Quick for nearly 15 years I love how her novels compensate for its cozy simplicity: realistic, imperfect characters, interesting plots, steamy relationships, bit of history and mistery, witty and funny conversations, cool side kicks.
Especially this one had a cool topic, had some endearing characters, but also some deeper messages. It came so well together.
It's not without its flaws, it's often predictable, characterization is often black and white, sex is always perfect without any difficulties, etc.but overall it delivers what it needs! I love it.
I guess it's not easy to write cozy stuff and also stay not to close to clichés, nonsense or ignorance. As a fan of A. Quick for nearly 15 years I love how her novels compensate for its cozy simplicity: realistic, imperfect characters, interesting plots, steamy relationships, bit of history and mistery, witty and funny conversations, cool side kicks.
Especially this one had a cool topic, had some endearing characters, but also some deeper messages. It came so well together.
It's not without its flaws, it's often predictable, characterization is often black and white, sex is always perfect without any difficulties, etc.but overall it delivers what it needs! I love it.
September 15, 2016
The fourth book in the Vanza series by Amanda Quick. Lie by Moonlight is the fourth book in Amanda Quick's historical romance series, Vanza. Concordia Glade is the governess of four young charges, Edwina, Phoebe, Hannah, and Theodora. Ambrose Wells is a private investigator who has come to Aldwick Castle to investigate murder.
I did like this book but it wasn't in my opinion one of Ms. Quick's best.
I did like this book but it wasn't in my opinion one of Ms. Quick's best.
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