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Code Breakers #3
A Code of the Heart
Miss Amelia Bonnington has been in love with her childhood hero since she was eleven years old... or so she thought until a not-so proper impassioned and unyielding kiss from the not-so honorable and equally disreputable Lord Derrick Brinsley, gave her reason to question the feelings of the heart.
Lord Brinsley, shunned from society for running off with his brother's fiancée, hasn't cared about or questioned his lack of acceptance until meeting the beguiling Amelia Bonnington. One passionate moment with the fiery Miss Bonnington has him more than willing to play by society's rules to possess the breathtaking, red-haired woman.
Amelia unwittingly becomes embroiled in espionage when she stumbles upon a smuggling ring in the modiste shop of her good friend. To prove her French friend's innocence, she dangerously jumps into the fray, jeopardizing more than her life.
On undercover assignment to prevent the French from stealing the Royal Navy's deadly weapon, Derrick must fight to protect British secrets from falling into the hands of foreign agents, and the chance at love with the only woman capable of redeeming him.
Enjoy the passionate, suspenseful Regency world of the Code Breakers, where daring lords and ladies decode the path to happily ever amidst their dangerous, heroic fight against Napoleon's treacherous designs.
Lord Brinsley, shunned from society for running off with his brother's fiancée, hasn't cared about or questioned his lack of acceptance until meeting the beguiling Amelia Bonnington. One passionate moment with the fiery Miss Bonnington has him more than willing to play by society's rules to possess the breathtaking, red-haired woman.
Amelia unwittingly becomes embroiled in espionage when she stumbles upon a smuggling ring in the modiste shop of her good friend. To prove her French friend's innocence, she dangerously jumps into the fray, jeopardizing more than her life.
On undercover assignment to prevent the French from stealing the Royal Navy's deadly weapon, Derrick must fight to protect British secrets from falling into the hands of foreign agents, and the chance at love with the only woman capable of redeeming him.
Enjoy the passionate, suspenseful Regency world of the Code Breakers, where daring lords and ladies decode the path to happily ever amidst their dangerous, heroic fight against Napoleon's treacherous designs.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
165 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
About the author
Jacki Delecki
45 books1,216 followersJacki Delecki is a USA Today bestselling romantic suspense author whose stories are filled with heart-pounding adventure, danger, intrigue, and romance.
Her books consistently receive rave reviews for her three bestselling suspense series: Contemporary romantic suspense The Impossible Mission Series, featuring Special Force Operatives; The Grayce Walters Series, contemporary romantic suspense following a Seattle animal acupuncturist with a nose for crime; and The Code Breakers Series and A Lady’s School for Spies Series, Regency suspense set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars.
Jacki’s stories reflect her lifelong love affair with the arts and history. When not writing, she volunteers for Seattle's Ballet and Opera Companies.
To learn more about Jacki and her books and to be the first to hear about giveaways, join her newsletter found on her website. JackiDelecki.com
Follow her on FB—Jacki Delecki
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 50 reviews
September 18, 2015
I haven't read the other books in this series, and I highly recommend you do. While this book is a standalone, the other books help lay the foundation for the characters in this one.
That being said, Amelia was...unexpected. She seemed like the kind of woman I don't like to read about in historical romances: flighty, simple-minded, knows only fashion and gossip, is resigned to settling instead of pursuing what her heart desires.
Um... Can anyone say "Wrong!"?
Time and again, Amelia proved me wrong. There was so much about her hiding behind her pretty smiles and fashionable dresses. She had lioness' heart when it came to things that mattered, and an intelligence that obliterated the "simple-minded" label I'd given her. She could have left her friend's problem alone, could have turned a blind eye to what it would do to her friend's business. But she didn't. She jumped in with two feet, maybe a little naively, but she did it because her friend mattered to her.
Derrick was a force to be reckoned with. A seasoned spy embroiled in scandal concerning another woman, he had little use for the ton or their gossip. Well, until he met Amelia, lol. The attraction was lightning fast and hurricane strong. It took them, and me, by surprise. Amelia believed her heart already spoken for, and Derrick... Well, he didn't play by society's rules. What was one miss from another, you know? Yet when his heart spoke, he listened and considered what he had to do to win Amelia for himself.
Their relationship was amusing to watch as they discovered things about themselves and made room for change within themselves in order to be together.
Sometimes it's hard to balance romance and suspense. Sometimes there's too much of one and not enough of the other. Sometimes the resolution to the suspense comes too quickly because it has to match the defining moment in the romance. That isn't the case here. Ms. Delecki did a terrific job writing about both in tandem so I didn't feel like, "When did that happen?" or "Wait. So what about them?"
A great read for romance readers who love the historical genre but need something more than balls, Seasons, gowns, and courtships. This one might be right up your alley if that's what you're looking for, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
(Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
That being said, Amelia was...unexpected. She seemed like the kind of woman I don't like to read about in historical romances: flighty, simple-minded, knows only fashion and gossip, is resigned to settling instead of pursuing what her heart desires.
Um... Can anyone say "Wrong!"?
Time and again, Amelia proved me wrong. There was so much about her hiding behind her pretty smiles and fashionable dresses. She had lioness' heart when it came to things that mattered, and an intelligence that obliterated the "simple-minded" label I'd given her. She could have left her friend's problem alone, could have turned a blind eye to what it would do to her friend's business. But she didn't. She jumped in with two feet, maybe a little naively, but she did it because her friend mattered to her.
Derrick was a force to be reckoned with. A seasoned spy embroiled in scandal concerning another woman, he had little use for the ton or their gossip. Well, until he met Amelia, lol. The attraction was lightning fast and hurricane strong. It took them, and me, by surprise. Amelia believed her heart already spoken for, and Derrick... Well, he didn't play by society's rules. What was one miss from another, you know? Yet when his heart spoke, he listened and considered what he had to do to win Amelia for himself.
Their relationship was amusing to watch as they discovered things about themselves and made room for change within themselves in order to be together.
Sometimes it's hard to balance romance and suspense. Sometimes there's too much of one and not enough of the other. Sometimes the resolution to the suspense comes too quickly because it has to match the defining moment in the romance. That isn't the case here. Ms. Delecki did a terrific job writing about both in tandem so I didn't feel like, "When did that happen?" or "Wait. So what about them?"
A great read for romance readers who love the historical genre but need something more than balls, Seasons, gowns, and courtships. This one might be right up your alley if that's what you're looking for, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
(Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
March 16, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
A Code of the Heart is the third book in the Code Breakers series. I should note that while I read book one, I did not read book two. While there are references to the events in book two, they do not prevent the reader from enjoying this book as each book is about a different couple. Additionally, Ms. Delecki does a wonderful job of using the Prologue to catch up readers like myself with the events that transpired in A Christmas Code without spoiling that book should a potential reader want to go back and read it – like I hope to do. That said, I do recommend reading A Code of Love first as it sets the stage for the series and introduces the various agencies and entities that tie the books together.
Unlike the heroines of the previous books, Amelia has no interest in the spy-bug that has bit her friends. She is relieved that she is able to return to her “normal” world and resume her art and fashion interests. But one would be remiss to assume that Amelia is a flighty female simply because she prefers fashion and artistic endeavors over the riskier activities of her friends, because she is far from a simple-minded woman of the ton. Amelia proves her mettle time and time again as she attempts to uncover who is behind a diamond smuggling operation that has put another of her friend’s life and livelihood in jeopardy. As if that were not enough, she undertakes all of this at the same time she is coming to terms with her true feelings for the man she expected to marry and a man whose presence in her life has forced her to reevaluate those feelings – Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley. I snickered at that scene because nothing says a man is in trouble like a woman calling him by his full name. Our story would not be complete without the slightly broken hero in need of the love of our heroine and Derrick more than fits that bill.
I enjoyed the bit of intrigue that Ms. Delecki infuses in A Code of the Heart and that she was able to involve Amelia in the happenings without giving her skills she did not possess previously (i.e., code breaking). The manner in which Amelia became embroiled in the events felt reasonable to her lifestyle and realistic to the time, especially considering the way the women were underestimated during that period. I enjoyed the banter between her and Derrick, especially once she got over her uncharacteristic shyness around him. I also liked that she took the measure of the man she came to know through her interactions with Derrick rather than accepting the ton’s gossip as gospel. Her faith in him went far in allowing Derrick to shake off the guilt he held about his father’s and brother’s behavior once his secrets were revealed. While the timing of their first interlude was not in keeping with the behavior of the era for a couple of their standing, that there was only one sex scene was consistent with the genre. But considering all that they had endured at that point, I had no problem with their premarital dalliance. I found A Code of the Heart to be a very enjoyable read and look forward to the next book in the Code Breaker series.
A Code of the Heart is the third book in the Code Breakers series. I should note that while I read book one, I did not read book two. While there are references to the events in book two, they do not prevent the reader from enjoying this book as each book is about a different couple. Additionally, Ms. Delecki does a wonderful job of using the Prologue to catch up readers like myself with the events that transpired in A Christmas Code without spoiling that book should a potential reader want to go back and read it – like I hope to do. That said, I do recommend reading A Code of Love first as it sets the stage for the series and introduces the various agencies and entities that tie the books together.
Unlike the heroines of the previous books, Amelia has no interest in the spy-bug that has bit her friends. She is relieved that she is able to return to her “normal” world and resume her art and fashion interests. But one would be remiss to assume that Amelia is a flighty female simply because she prefers fashion and artistic endeavors over the riskier activities of her friends, because she is far from a simple-minded woman of the ton. Amelia proves her mettle time and time again as she attempts to uncover who is behind a diamond smuggling operation that has put another of her friend’s life and livelihood in jeopardy. As if that were not enough, she undertakes all of this at the same time she is coming to terms with her true feelings for the man she expected to marry and a man whose presence in her life has forced her to reevaluate those feelings – Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley. I snickered at that scene because nothing says a man is in trouble like a woman calling him by his full name. Our story would not be complete without the slightly broken hero in need of the love of our heroine and Derrick more than fits that bill.
I enjoyed the bit of intrigue that Ms. Delecki infuses in A Code of the Heart and that she was able to involve Amelia in the happenings without giving her skills she did not possess previously (i.e., code breaking). The manner in which Amelia became embroiled in the events felt reasonable to her lifestyle and realistic to the time, especially considering the way the women were underestimated during that period. I enjoyed the banter between her and Derrick, especially once she got over her uncharacteristic shyness around him. I also liked that she took the measure of the man she came to know through her interactions with Derrick rather than accepting the ton’s gossip as gospel. Her faith in him went far in allowing Derrick to shake off the guilt he held about his father’s and brother’s behavior once his secrets were revealed. While the timing of their first interlude was not in keeping with the behavior of the era for a couple of their standing, that there was only one sex scene was consistent with the genre. But considering all that they had endured at that point, I had no problem with their premarital dalliance. I found A Code of the Heart to be a very enjoyable read and look forward to the next book in the Code Breaker series.
March 3, 2020
Gifted copy for honest review.
I really enjoyed reading A Code of the Heart. This story is about Amelia and Derrick. The characters and story were great and keep you interested throughout the book. I recommend this one.
I really enjoyed reading A Code of the Heart. This story is about Amelia and Derrick. The characters and story were great and keep you interested throughout the book. I recommend this one.
June 27, 2017
A bit slow at the beginning but interesting afterwards :)
August 30, 2015
This, the third in the
Code Breakers
series by Jacki Delecki, is a sweetly romantic espionage story. Miss Amelia Bonnington is saved from possible ravishment at a house party by acknowledged rake Lord Derrick Brinsley. He has a dark secret, one which has earned him his reputation and from which he adamantly refuses to defend himself, preferring society to believe the worst of him. The two are discovered sharing a passionate kiss and of course Amelia is compromised, although she laughingly refuses to be compelled to marry him - a fact about which Derrick is secretly disappointed. Amelia is fiery and brave, well deserving of her nickname 'Red' - which aptly describes her flaming red hair and intelligent and courageous nature; and for the first time, Derrick feels himself genuinely attracted to a woman for honourable reasons.
The two are palpably attracted to each other, although when he discovers that Amelia has been in love with a childhood friend since she was eleven, Derrick backs off, believing himself to be unworthy and unlikely to be able to win her love. Amelia feels the pull to Brinsley and as a result is soon able to put her childish infatuation into perspective and embarks on a plan to win his regard.
Lord Derrick Brinsley is quite scrumptious. As well as possessing extremely swoon-worthy good looks, he is an agent for the Crown involved in a covert mission to save British secrets from falling into the hands of foreign agents - who wouldn't be attracted by such attributes? Protective, loyal Amelia stumbles into the plot through the involvement of a friend, and is determined to prove that friend's innocence.
The story is narrated by Pearl Hewitt and although Ms. Hewitt has a pleasant voice I didn't feel that she did justice to the fiery, independently free-spirited Amelia. She adopts a 'little' voice which just does not fit the image painted by the author of this intrepid young lady. Derrick's speech is lengthened with drawn-out vowels; it is pitched well enough as to sound reasonably masculine but the slightly effeminate drawling rather spoilt it for me. When, at the time of their initial stolen kiss, Derrick says... "say my name, I want to hear Derrick on your lips"... I couldn't take it seriously - little voice meets drawl just didn't work for me, at least. Ms Hewitt also consistently mispronounces the word "ton" as "tone" which is quite disconcerting. Her talents definitely lie in the more character driven roles, such as Aunt Euphemia, who she portrays superbly.
In summary, A Code of the Heart is fairly light and fluffy considering its fairly serious subject-matter. I also think I might have enjoyed it more had I read the previous two books in the series, as reference is made to previous plots, and they are relevant as are the characters mentioned who crop up regularly in this novel. The author also talks of the protagonists waltzing - to the best of my knowledge, at the time this story is set, the waltz had not been introduced into England. There are annoying modern terms and Americanisms dotted throughout, too, which is incredibly annoying. Nevertheless, this is, on the whole, a well written story, if lacking a little grittiness and substance for my taste and I am sure that it will appeal to listeners in search of an "espionage-lite" spy story.
The two are palpably attracted to each other, although when he discovers that Amelia has been in love with a childhood friend since she was eleven, Derrick backs off, believing himself to be unworthy and unlikely to be able to win her love. Amelia feels the pull to Brinsley and as a result is soon able to put her childish infatuation into perspective and embarks on a plan to win his regard.
Lord Derrick Brinsley is quite scrumptious. As well as possessing extremely swoon-worthy good looks, he is an agent for the Crown involved in a covert mission to save British secrets from falling into the hands of foreign agents - who wouldn't be attracted by such attributes? Protective, loyal Amelia stumbles into the plot through the involvement of a friend, and is determined to prove that friend's innocence.
The story is narrated by Pearl Hewitt and although Ms. Hewitt has a pleasant voice I didn't feel that she did justice to the fiery, independently free-spirited Amelia. She adopts a 'little' voice which just does not fit the image painted by the author of this intrepid young lady. Derrick's speech is lengthened with drawn-out vowels; it is pitched well enough as to sound reasonably masculine but the slightly effeminate drawling rather spoilt it for me. When, at the time of their initial stolen kiss, Derrick says... "say my name, I want to hear Derrick on your lips"... I couldn't take it seriously - little voice meets drawl just didn't work for me, at least. Ms Hewitt also consistently mispronounces the word "ton" as "tone" which is quite disconcerting. Her talents definitely lie in the more character driven roles, such as Aunt Euphemia, who she portrays superbly.
In summary, A Code of the Heart is fairly light and fluffy considering its fairly serious subject-matter. I also think I might have enjoyed it more had I read the previous two books in the series, as reference is made to previous plots, and they are relevant as are the characters mentioned who crop up regularly in this novel. The author also talks of the protagonists waltzing - to the best of my knowledge, at the time this story is set, the waltz had not been introduced into England. There are annoying modern terms and Americanisms dotted throughout, too, which is incredibly annoying. Nevertheless, this is, on the whole, a well written story, if lacking a little grittiness and substance for my taste and I am sure that it will appeal to listeners in search of an "espionage-lite" spy story.
September 20, 2015
Here’s a Regency love story full of intrigue and suspense – quite the exhilarating experience.
Amelia Bonnington was a woman known for her talent in gown design and art. She was busy designing her best friend’s wedding gown. Who would have thought a couple of dolls with designer dresses from France would drop her directly into a smuggling ring and danger? Madame Dupree had let her have the dolls to take to Gywneth, but dogs and children don’t mix well with dolls.
Once involved she and Gwyneth want to gather information and are determined to work on their own. Gwyneth wants to show her fiance, Ash, who is a spy, how clever she is and just perhaps he’ll allow her to partner with him on other spy missions. A bad decision, ladies.
Lord Brinsley was trying to get back in the graces of the ton, for the simple reason he had kissed Amelia Bonnington rather passionately, or rather she had kissed him at a ball recently. No matter, he only knew he wanted more and he had to position himself in the ton as was his rightful place. If he pursued Amelia, he needed to provide her every consideration from the fickle ton, not an easy task. Who better to help him than his aunt who knew everyone, in addition to being quite a force of nature when on a mission?
While Amelia was visiting this woman on her covert information gathering, Derrick was already there discussing his own issues. The room lights up, energy moves through the room when Amelia enters. Immediately, his aunt knows which way the wind blows.
Amelia had always thought she’d marry Michael Harcourt. She had idolized him as a child. And word around the ton was she would marry him eventually. But since that stolen kiss from Lord Brinsley she just couldn’t concentrate on Michael. Derrick was a force much like his aunt and had been working as a spy, too. That’s how he met Amelia. Something sizzled between them, something drew her to Derrick, not Michael. His kiss…it stole her senses.
Surprise meets surprise in this lively suspenseful and engaging story. Amelia learns a big lesson. Not all people befriend you for honorable reasons, unfortunately, it could mean her life.
The narrator was easy to listen to with great storytelling abilities. Her characterization of male voices was excellent and a delight to listen to with her portrayal of two rambunctious youngsters. Some scenes were quite desperate in tone and I could easily identify with the characters and their plight. Her accent, being English herself, was perfect and well modulated.
Amelia Bonnington was a woman known for her talent in gown design and art. She was busy designing her best friend’s wedding gown. Who would have thought a couple of dolls with designer dresses from France would drop her directly into a smuggling ring and danger? Madame Dupree had let her have the dolls to take to Gywneth, but dogs and children don’t mix well with dolls.
Once involved she and Gwyneth want to gather information and are determined to work on their own. Gwyneth wants to show her fiance, Ash, who is a spy, how clever she is and just perhaps he’ll allow her to partner with him on other spy missions. A bad decision, ladies.
Lord Brinsley was trying to get back in the graces of the ton, for the simple reason he had kissed Amelia Bonnington rather passionately, or rather she had kissed him at a ball recently. No matter, he only knew he wanted more and he had to position himself in the ton as was his rightful place. If he pursued Amelia, he needed to provide her every consideration from the fickle ton, not an easy task. Who better to help him than his aunt who knew everyone, in addition to being quite a force of nature when on a mission?
While Amelia was visiting this woman on her covert information gathering, Derrick was already there discussing his own issues. The room lights up, energy moves through the room when Amelia enters. Immediately, his aunt knows which way the wind blows.
Amelia had always thought she’d marry Michael Harcourt. She had idolized him as a child. And word around the ton was she would marry him eventually. But since that stolen kiss from Lord Brinsley she just couldn’t concentrate on Michael. Derrick was a force much like his aunt and had been working as a spy, too. That’s how he met Amelia. Something sizzled between them, something drew her to Derrick, not Michael. His kiss…it stole her senses.
Surprise meets surprise in this lively suspenseful and engaging story. Amelia learns a big lesson. Not all people befriend you for honorable reasons, unfortunately, it could mean her life.
The narrator was easy to listen to with great storytelling abilities. Her characterization of male voices was excellent and a delight to listen to with her portrayal of two rambunctious youngsters. Some scenes were quite desperate in tone and I could easily identify with the characters and their plight. Her accent, being English herself, was perfect and well modulated.
March 18, 2015
This series is brilliant! The women are strong, determined, intelligent and not afraid to get their hands dirty. I am enjoying the continuing story of spies, evil villains, attempted kidnapping, gun shots, heroic rescues and HEA’s.
Amelia Bonnington is no stranger to intrigue, spies and evil; she just didn’t expect to find it where she did. She is loyal to her friends and protective of the underdog, but is inexperienced enough to miss signs of treachery. She almost misses her chance at her HEA because of her own misunderstanding of feelings of the heart.
Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley is a spy for the crown and like Amelia is a protector of the underdog. He has never felt that he belongs to anyone or anything and an event in his past has kept truly belonging out of his reach. But Amelia has him wondering how to belong!
They have known each other, worked on intrigue together and they both feel the spark of attraction. But with Amelia and the rest of the ton thinking her heart is held by someone else, they each pull back. When Amelia embarks on a plan to follow a smuggler to prove the villain is not her friend, she puts Derrick’s mission and her life in jeopardy. Although it appears they are working at cross purposes they both discover the true villain. Along the way Amelia finds where her heart belongs and Derrick is given aid from his aunt to find himself belonging.
The continued presence of characters from previous books in the series is fabulous, old friends coming for a visit. The charming care the women show both Amelia and Derrick show the depth of characters Ms. Delecki creates. The spunk, humor and irreverence lend a brisk pace to the conversations. The only thing that kept this from being 5 stars was that the villain was lead away to Abchurch for questioning and we did not see the comeuppance come back around. I am hoping we what happened to the villain in the next book in the series. The intrigue that winds through the series has me anxiously awaiting the next installment to the series. I still have a smile on my face after I finished the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Amelia Bonnington is no stranger to intrigue, spies and evil; she just didn’t expect to find it where she did. She is loyal to her friends and protective of the underdog, but is inexperienced enough to miss signs of treachery. She almost misses her chance at her HEA because of her own misunderstanding of feelings of the heart.
Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley is a spy for the crown and like Amelia is a protector of the underdog. He has never felt that he belongs to anyone or anything and an event in his past has kept truly belonging out of his reach. But Amelia has him wondering how to belong!
They have known each other, worked on intrigue together and they both feel the spark of attraction. But with Amelia and the rest of the ton thinking her heart is held by someone else, they each pull back. When Amelia embarks on a plan to follow a smuggler to prove the villain is not her friend, she puts Derrick’s mission and her life in jeopardy. Although it appears they are working at cross purposes they both discover the true villain. Along the way Amelia finds where her heart belongs and Derrick is given aid from his aunt to find himself belonging.
The continued presence of characters from previous books in the series is fabulous, old friends coming for a visit. The charming care the women show both Amelia and Derrick show the depth of characters Ms. Delecki creates. The spunk, humor and irreverence lend a brisk pace to the conversations. The only thing that kept this from being 5 stars was that the villain was lead away to Abchurch for questioning and we did not see the comeuppance come back around. I am hoping we what happened to the villain in the next book in the series. The intrigue that winds through the series has me anxiously awaiting the next installment to the series. I still have a smile on my face after I finished the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 24, 2015
It's been awhile since I've read a Regency romance (they used to be my staple diet before I discovered NA!) and I thoroughly enjoyed this one. This is the first time I've read this author and I plan on reading more of her work. This novel is the third in a series, but can be read as a standalone, although I suspect that reading the first two novels would give a more rounded picture of the other characters.
Miss Amelia Bonnington is a bright, no-nonsense young lady with a caring heart. She's been in unrequited love with a childhood friend. She has four brothers and is completely comfortable around men. However, Lord Derrick Brinsley sets her heart racing and her beautiful fair skin blushing.
"Her touch was gentle and tentative, but the slight caress went deep into his body and into his empty soul."
Brinsley is dogged by a scandal from the past - the full story is revealed during the course of the novel. He has closed himself off from everybody, but Amelia is like a thunderbolt to his heart - breathing new life and hope into it. However, he feels the need to be brought back into polite society before he feels that he can offer her a future.
In the meantime, a case of espionage is afoot, which Derrick is investigating and in which Amelia gets tangled up.
Amelia and Brinsley were nicely fleshed out and hugely likeable. Although I haven't read the other novels, I got a pretty clear understanding of the other characters, and plan to pick up their stories at some point.
Miss Amelia Bonnington is a bright, no-nonsense young lady with a caring heart. She's been in unrequited love with a childhood friend. She has four brothers and is completely comfortable around men. However, Lord Derrick Brinsley sets her heart racing and her beautiful fair skin blushing.
"Her touch was gentle and tentative, but the slight caress went deep into his body and into his empty soul."
Brinsley is dogged by a scandal from the past - the full story is revealed during the course of the novel. He has closed himself off from everybody, but Amelia is like a thunderbolt to his heart - breathing new life and hope into it. However, he feels the need to be brought back into polite society before he feels that he can offer her a future.
In the meantime, a case of espionage is afoot, which Derrick is investigating and in which Amelia gets tangled up.
Amelia and Brinsley were nicely fleshed out and hugely likeable. Although I haven't read the other novels, I got a pretty clear understanding of the other characters, and plan to pick up their stories at some point.
March 20, 2015
Posted on What I'm Reading
I have to say that I liked A Code of the Heart. It happen to be a fairly quick read with likable characters. So, the story focuses on Amelia and Derrick. Both of these characters feel an attraction for one another, but there are a couple hang ups. 1) Amelia has a crush on her a neighbor and hopes to marry him. 2) Derrick has rakes reputation. Which aren't real problems. Along with this budding romance, we have a smuggling ring going on that Amelia accidentally stumbles upon, and she has a real concern for her friend.
Okay, my one main issue to the story is that it felt a bit rush and plot could have been expanded more other than that it was a good story. I like the interaction between Amelia and Derrick. Amelia is a pretty smart young woman who has a hoydenish tendency, but at the same time girly. She wants to see the best in everyone. Derrick has a rakes reputation, because he refuse disclose what really happen in the past. Basically, he just sucked up, and he's a decent guy. Honestly, I wish the author could have dived more into his past, because we could have seen more of the decent guy Derrick actually is instead being portrayed the rake. Overall, if you are looking for a quick read that has spies, and little bit mystery with a dash romance, you might consider A Code of the Heart a try.
Copy provided by author via Tasty Book Tours.
I have to say that I liked A Code of the Heart. It happen to be a fairly quick read with likable characters. So, the story focuses on Amelia and Derrick. Both of these characters feel an attraction for one another, but there are a couple hang ups. 1) Amelia has a crush on her a neighbor and hopes to marry him. 2) Derrick has rakes reputation. Which aren't real problems. Along with this budding romance, we have a smuggling ring going on that Amelia accidentally stumbles upon, and she has a real concern for her friend.
Okay, my one main issue to the story is that it felt a bit rush and plot could have been expanded more other than that it was a good story. I like the interaction between Amelia and Derrick. Amelia is a pretty smart young woman who has a hoydenish tendency, but at the same time girly. She wants to see the best in everyone. Derrick has a rakes reputation, because he refuse disclose what really happen in the past. Basically, he just sucked up, and he's a decent guy. Honestly, I wish the author could have dived more into his past, because we could have seen more of the decent guy Derrick actually is instead being portrayed the rake. Overall, if you are looking for a quick read that has spies, and little bit mystery with a dash romance, you might consider A Code of the Heart a try.
Copy provided by author via Tasty Book Tours.
July 26, 2015
Code of the Heart: The Code Breaker Series, Book 3 written by Jacki Delecki is another fun historical romance mystery set during the Napoliantic Wars. Like in true historical romance fashion, the hero and heroine have an immediate physical attraction to each other that can't be denied. But can they learn to trust each other? Our hero, Lord Derrick Brinsley, is a British undercover agent trying to prevent secrets from falling into French hands. Our heroine is Amelia Bonnington who just happens to become involved in the same espionage ring when she uncovers a smuggling ring in her good friend's modiste shop.
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Amelia is basically a Tom-boy who enjoys shooting, playing cricket, and other "manly" games. But she also has a very "girly" side, where she designs women's dresses and other clothing accessories. And Derrick, to his credit, admires Amelia for being different and standing out from a crowd, while at the same time still maintaining one foot within it.
I listened to the Audible version of this story narrated by Pearl Hewitt who did a fantastic job. She provides differing voices for characters young and old, as well as male and female. She also has a way of expressing urgency that many narrators do not accurately portray. Bravo!
What I enjoyed most about this book is how Amelia is basically a Tom-boy who enjoys shooting, playing cricket, and other "manly" games. But she also has a very "girly" side, where she designs women's dresses and other clothing accessories. And Derrick, to his credit, admires Amelia for being different and standing out from a crowd, while at the same time still maintaining one foot within it.
I listened to the Audible version of this story narrated by Pearl Hewitt who did a fantastic job. She provides differing voices for characters young and old, as well as male and female. She also has a way of expressing urgency that many narrators do not accurately portray. Bravo!
July 11, 2015
The year is 1803 .England is at war with France, and spy's and smuggling abound.
Derrick, Lord Briskly, has been shunned by polite society. That doesn't stop him from working to uncover the people putting his country at risk.
Amelia Bonnington decided who she was going to marry when she was still in the school room. So why does one stolen kiss throw her emotions into turmoil.?
Amelia is designing her best friend's wedding dress, using the best French dress maker in town.
This is a great fun adventure. Our hero is sexy, strong and honourable, despite his reputation. Our heroine comes from a large and playful family. That means she has some strange interests for a woman. You could read this as a stand alone, but that will just make you want to go back and read the others, because the other characters are so much fun.
Derrick, Lord Briskly, has been shunned by polite society. That doesn't stop him from working to uncover the people putting his country at risk.
Amelia Bonnington decided who she was going to marry when she was still in the school room. So why does one stolen kiss throw her emotions into turmoil.?
Amelia is designing her best friend's wedding dress, using the best French dress maker in town.
This is a great fun adventure. Our hero is sexy, strong and honourable, despite his reputation. Our heroine comes from a large and playful family. That means she has some strange interests for a woman. You could read this as a stand alone, but that will just make you want to go back and read the others, because the other characters are so much fun.
July 21, 2015
I really enjoyed this book from beginning to end: is romantic, passionate but also full of action and mystery.
After a furtive and passionate kiss that she has exchanged with Derrick during Christmas party, Amelia is no longer the same: she is always in love with a boy and hopes to marry him but the kiss of Derrick has been really special. She feels attracted to him and when she meets him it can not help but to blush. She is not sure she wanted to marry his first love. But Derrick has a scandalous past and is very committed to his espionage activities.
It's a reading engaging, intriguing and interesting: plot and characters are well developed, there are great dialogue, so much passion and suspense.
I recommend it to those who love and romantic suspense novels regency
After a furtive and passionate kiss that she has exchanged with Derrick during Christmas party, Amelia is no longer the same: she is always in love with a boy and hopes to marry him but the kiss of Derrick has been really special. She feels attracted to him and when she meets him it can not help but to blush. She is not sure she wanted to marry his first love. But Derrick has a scandalous past and is very committed to his espionage activities.
It's a reading engaging, intriguing and interesting: plot and characters are well developed, there are great dialogue, so much passion and suspense.
I recommend it to those who love and romantic suspense novels regency
February 16, 2015
I am still in love with this author’s Code series! The romance and the intrigue are balanced so that both make an exciting read that is hard to put down. I read it in two nights only because I was too tired to finish it the first night. Derrick and Amelia courtship was a little unusual in that Derrick was the one who had to live down a scandal; that is mistaken by the Ton to be a scandal, however. During the solution of the spy mystery and after Amelia found that she loved Derrick, the secret to Derrick’s mistaken scandal was revealed and all barriers to their happy ever after were done away with. This is another wonderful historical Regency romantic suspense by a terrific author.
August 29, 2016
#3 A Code of the Heart by Jacki Delecki is the 3rd book in the Code Breakers Series. This regency series is full of so many elements that multiple genres are covered (suspense, intrigue, mystery and romance). You will discover things like a codebook, spies, disguises, assassins, kidnappings, near drownings, an opium addict, blackmail, a poisoning, assaults, thievery, smuggling, and a secret weapon. Also included are characters that go through lies, deceit, loss, assumptions, misunderstandings, fun, passion and love. Heroines are wonderfully smart, strong, and brave.
September 20, 2023
Miss Amelia Bonnington, daughter to Lord Bonnington. She has four brothers Jack is the oldest, Parker, Colin, and Drew the youngest. She loves to paint and design dresses. She is good at both, has a living heart. Growing up with four brothers she is also handy at cricket and defending herself as well as other females.
Her friends Lady Gwyneth, engaged to Lord James Henry Ashworth, or Ash, and is sister to Lord Rathbourne or Cord, who is married to her other friend Lady Henrietta who is the sister to Lord Edward Michael Harcourt the Earl of Kendal, who is Amelia's fantasy and childhood friend. We can not forget Michael and Henrietta's younger brother Edward Harcourt, who is fascinated about cricket and wants to be the best cricket player.
Madame De Puis, Helene, modIste to the fashionable ton. Helene is a friend to Amelia for fabrics and construction of the gowns when need be. Amelia send lots of people Helene's way for dresses. Miss Elodie Bargeron and her father Maurice who is a smuggler and go between.
Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley, has a reputation as a devilish rake who is uncaring and greedy. This works towards his advantage as a spy along with his size. He was doomed by his family for running off with his mean, abusive brothers fiancee Baron Lyon’s daughter, Lauren, and then returning without her.
So come join the romantic suspense in finding a diamond smuggler, only hint you get, smuggler after the war Department's secret weapon. It is not who you think! The ladies are caught up in another mystery they believe is separate from what the guy are pursuing. In the mix is the bubbling romance of Gwyneth and Ash leading up their wedding and the budding one for Amelia.
Who did it? Who does Amelia end up with? And does Edward get his help to be a good cricket player? Find out what hijinxs the ladies are up to and how clever they get to exposing the real smuggler. Amy has a way of making you interact with her characters and feeling as if you are right in the mix of things. She brings to life everyday things to enthralled and embroidered you into the story. Her curveball twists are amazing as the dogs are very subtle and shock you with who the real culprit is. I just love her stories.
Her friends Lady Gwyneth, engaged to Lord James Henry Ashworth, or Ash, and is sister to Lord Rathbourne or Cord, who is married to her other friend Lady Henrietta who is the sister to Lord Edward Michael Harcourt the Earl of Kendal, who is Amelia's fantasy and childhood friend. We can not forget Michael and Henrietta's younger brother Edward Harcourt, who is fascinated about cricket and wants to be the best cricket player.
Madame De Puis, Helene, modIste to the fashionable ton. Helene is a friend to Amelia for fabrics and construction of the gowns when need be. Amelia send lots of people Helene's way for dresses. Miss Elodie Bargeron and her father Maurice who is a smuggler and go between.
Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley, has a reputation as a devilish rake who is uncaring and greedy. This works towards his advantage as a spy along with his size. He was doomed by his family for running off with his mean, abusive brothers fiancee Baron Lyon’s daughter, Lauren, and then returning without her.
So come join the romantic suspense in finding a diamond smuggler, only hint you get, smuggler after the war Department's secret weapon. It is not who you think! The ladies are caught up in another mystery they believe is separate from what the guy are pursuing. In the mix is the bubbling romance of Gwyneth and Ash leading up their wedding and the budding one for Amelia.
Who did it? Who does Amelia end up with? And does Edward get his help to be a good cricket player? Find out what hijinxs the ladies are up to and how clever they get to exposing the real smuggler. Amy has a way of making you interact with her characters and feeling as if you are right in the mix of things. She brings to life everyday things to enthralled and embroidered you into the story. Her curveball twists are amazing as the dogs are very subtle and shock you with who the real culprit is. I just love her stories.
March 11, 2018
“A Code of the Heart” is the third book in The Code Breakers Series by Jacki Delecki. I absolutely loved this book. Miss Amelia Bonnington has had an infatuation for her good friend’s brother Michael Harcourt for many years. Everyone in the Ton believes they will marry. But then she meets Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley at a Christmas party (A Christmas Code – Book 2) and every thought of Michael leaves her head. Lord Derrick is one of my favorite characters so far in this series. He is a spy in the British Intelligence Service and is a secondary character in the first two books.
Derrick has been shunned by the Ton for running away with his brother’s fiancé years ago. He is the last person that Amelia wants to associate herself with. He is a giant man who has shut himself off from past pain. When he first meets Amelia, sparks of animosity fly between them. He enjoys poking fun at her and calling her Red for her flaming red mane. But by the second day of their acquaintance, Derrick’s true gentle nature comes out.
“Touching her lightly with his fingertips, he smoothed her cheek, her lips, and down her throat. He paused where her pulse leapt and bounded under his seductive touch. He put his mouth on hers. She froze, suspended in the sensation of his soft, warm lips. The rest of the world, the war, the ball, vanished.”
Even though this is a standalone, I highly recommend reading the full series beginning with A Code of Love.
Derrick has been shunned by the Ton for running away with his brother’s fiancé years ago. He is the last person that Amelia wants to associate herself with. He is a giant man who has shut himself off from past pain. When he first meets Amelia, sparks of animosity fly between them. He enjoys poking fun at her and calling her Red for her flaming red mane. But by the second day of their acquaintance, Derrick’s true gentle nature comes out.
“Touching her lightly with his fingertips, he smoothed her cheek, her lips, and down her throat. He paused where her pulse leapt and bounded under his seductive touch. He put his mouth on hers. She froze, suspended in the sensation of his soft, warm lips. The rest of the world, the war, the ball, vanished.”
Even though this is a standalone, I highly recommend reading the full series beginning with A Code of Love.
October 2, 2024
A Code of the Heart” is the third book in The Code Breakers Series by Jacki Delecki. I absolutely loved this book. Miss Amelia Bonnington has had an infatuation for her good friend’s brother Michael Harcourt for many years. Everyone in the Ton believes they will marry. But then she meets Lord Derrick Jeremy Randolph Brinsley at a Christmas party (A Christmas Code – Book 2) and every thought of Michael leaves her head. Lord Derrick is one of my favorite characters so far in this series. He is a spy in the British Intelligence Service and is a secondary character in the first two books.
Derrick has been shunned by the Ton for running away with his brother’s fiancé years ago. He is the last person that Amelia wants to associate herself with. He is a giant man who has shut himself off from past pain. When he first meets Amelia, sparks of animosity fly between them. He enjoys poking fun at her and calling her Red for her flaming red mane. But by the second day of their acquaintance, Derrick’s true gentle nature comes out.
“Touching her lightly with his fingertips, he smoothed her cheek, her lips, and down her throat. He paused where her pulse leapt and bounded under his seductive touch. He put his mouth on hers. She froze, suspended in the sensation of his soft, warm lips. The rest of the world, the war, the ball, vanished.”
Even though this is a standalone, I highly recommend reading the full series beginning with A Code of Love.
Derrick has been shunned by the Ton for running away with his brother’s fiancé years ago. He is the last person that Amelia wants to associate herself with. He is a giant man who has shut himself off from past pain. When he first meets Amelia, sparks of animosity fly between them. He enjoys poking fun at her and calling her Red for her flaming red mane. But by the second day of their acquaintance, Derrick’s true gentle nature comes out.
“Touching her lightly with his fingertips, he smoothed her cheek, her lips, and down her throat. He paused where her pulse leapt and bounded under his seductive touch. He put his mouth on hers. She froze, suspended in the sensation of his soft, warm lips. The rest of the world, the war, the ball, vanished.”
Even though this is a standalone, I highly recommend reading the full series beginning with A Code of Love.
January 10, 2020
Miss Amelia Bonnington has been in love with her childhood hero Michael Harcourt since she was eleven years old or so she thought until a not-so proper impassioned and unyielding kiss from the not-so honourable and equally disreputable Lord Derrick Brinsley, gave her reason to question the feelings of the heart. Derrick Brinsley, shunned from society for running off with his brother's fiancée, hasn't cared about or questioned his lack of acceptance until meeting the beguiling Amelia Bonnington. One passionate moment with the fiery Miss Bonnington has him more than willing to play by society's rules to possess the breathtaking, red-haired woman.
Amelia unwittingly becomes embroiled in espionage when she stumbles upon a smuggling ring in the modiste shop of her good friend. To prove her French friend's innocence, she dangerously jumps into the fray, jeopardizing more than her life.
This is the third book in the series & could be read on its own. The characters were well portrayed & had depth. The pace was good & drew me in from the start, there were spies & plots to uncover, misunderstandings & secrets all of which made for a very entertaining read. I loved Amelia, a mean cricket player & the lovely Derrick who proved first impressions were deceptive.
Amelia unwittingly becomes embroiled in espionage when she stumbles upon a smuggling ring in the modiste shop of her good friend. To prove her French friend's innocence, she dangerously jumps into the fray, jeopardizing more than her life.
This is the third book in the series & could be read on its own. The characters were well portrayed & had depth. The pace was good & drew me in from the start, there were spies & plots to uncover, misunderstandings & secrets all of which made for a very entertaining read. I loved Amelia, a mean cricket player & the lovely Derrick who proved first impressions were deceptive.
April 29, 2018
I was quite enjoying it despite the American and contemporary flair in the dialogues (and I even put it down to historical possibility or creative license) but then in Chapter 22, I saw this ~ "Miss Amelia are you okay?..." OKAY is, during this timeline, a uniquely American word from Van Buren's re~election campaign in 1840. So wrong side of the Atlantic and a much advanced timeline than 1802~1803, this story's setting. Furthermore, during the Regency, the British aristocracy still considers their colonial cousins as heathens, savages and lacking in culture. So they most definitely DO NOT condescend to integrate a word as OKAY into their daily conversations. By putting this historically inappropriate Annoying American word into a purportedly English novel, the author has altered history, offended the genre, insulted the reader and also committed a major editing flaw. The contemporary dialogues and the inclusion of contemporary words or the usage of such in the present day context may yet cause this work to be considered as a pseudo~Regency historical romance and lacking in authenticity.
January 12, 2021
Start with a super impassioned spontaneous kiss, a bit of time for all to simmer, then add in smuggled fabric and fashion dolls for Amelia's dresses, plus socially outcast Brinsley hunting for a French spy and you have a delightful escapade.
Amelia finds diamonds smuggled in the fashion dolls, but doesn't want to tell anyone until she proves her French friend's innocence for she knows the men will remove her from the investigation and ruin her friend's business. She and Gwyneth attempt a surveillance plan to determine who is involved and scamper all over London right into the middle of Brinsley's mission.
These two are fixated on the memory of their kiss, but don't see a way forward for themselves between Amelia's long love for another and Brinsley's scandalous past. JD shows the thorniness of others trying to "help" and when acting on assumptions.
Amelia finds diamonds smuggled in the fashion dolls, but doesn't want to tell anyone until she proves her French friend's innocence for she knows the men will remove her from the investigation and ruin her friend's business. She and Gwyneth attempt a surveillance plan to determine who is involved and scamper all over London right into the middle of Brinsley's mission.
These two are fixated on the memory of their kiss, but don't see a way forward for themselves between Amelia's long love for another and Brinsley's scandalous past. JD shows the thorniness of others trying to "help" and when acting on assumptions.
April 20, 2019
This was a fun book. I loved Amelia’s independence, but she swung so wildly from a strong sassy woman to displaying no backbone (or wisdom) at all. I may have sprained a muscle in my brain, I rolled my eyes so hard a couple of times. Other than the intimate scenes between Amelia and Derrick, the style of writing seemed almost designed for a younger audience. With all of the madcap running around, this felt a little like a Disney Sunday movie, or possibly an episode of I Love Lucy. What I’ve gotten from this series hasn’t been historical accuracy, but it has been a full-fledged mental escape.
April 27, 2018
I loved the story! The story was wonderfully told and kept the reader involved with the story line. I loved how Derrick was trying to keep his lady safe, while Amelia was trying to prove that she wasn't a wilted flower and able to pull her own weight in helping out. Amelia never wanted to be involved, yet to help others she joined in to help. The plot lines were never slow and the author was able to keep me interested throughout the whole series (that I read in 1 night).
January 1, 2021
Another brilliant addition to the series
This is another brilliantly written addition to an amazing series. The plot is full emotion and mystery, and the characters are crafted with the strength and determination to achieve their goals. This is a great book for all those who love steamy historical romances that have a bit of suspense.
This is another brilliantly written addition to an amazing series. The plot is full emotion and mystery, and the characters are crafted with the strength and determination to achieve their goals. This is a great book for all those who love steamy historical romances that have a bit of suspense.
January 14, 2025
Another spy Intrigue with Amelia and Derrick this time!
Amelia doesn't think she will ever find love like her friends. Derrick doesn't think k any lady in Society would have him. The sparks fly when they meet again. Will it be dislike or love?
This was an interesting story and wonderful characters.
This is my honest review.
Amelia doesn't think she will ever find love like her friends. Derrick doesn't think k any lady in Society would have him. The sparks fly when they meet again. Will it be dislike or love?
This was an interesting story and wonderful characters.
This is my honest review.
May 26, 2018
Spying and costuming
Strange combination, especially when you included diamonds a state secrets. Best part as always is the ever so handsome spy that wants to come in from the cold. Actually into the arms of the beautiful lady Amelia.
Strange combination, especially when you included diamonds a state secrets. Best part as always is the ever so handsome spy that wants to come in from the cold. Actually into the arms of the beautiful lady Amelia.
October 11, 2019
Heart Code
Another good book to read! This one is about Amelia who designs and makes stunning gowns. She helps Derrick while their friend Ashford recover from poison. Great book to read
Another good book to read! This one is about Amelia who designs and makes stunning gowns. She helps Derrick while their friend Ashford recover from poison. Great book to read
April 18, 2021
This series is getting better and better
Amelia and Derrick's story is really good. She is a designer and he works for her best friend's husband as a spy.
She gets caught up in the spy game when she falls into clues. The twist and turns she gets involved in is enthralling.
Amelia and Derrick's story is really good. She is a designer and he works for her best friend's husband as a spy.
She gets caught up in the spy game when she falls into clues. The twist and turns she gets involved in is enthralling.
October 31, 2021
Amelia and Derrick’s story is another interesting instalment in this series. There is a good level of intrigue in this story that brings them together. Again we keep up with characters from previous books which I always like doing. An enjoyable read.
July 10, 2017
This was the better of the three books in the set that I purchased through a deal at Book Bub. It is a continuation of the previous stories and I would recommend that you read in order.
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