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The Haberdashers #4
Saving Persephone
In 1805 Robert Bittlesworth's little sister and her two best friends decided to create a "boys club" because boys have more fun. Most protective older brothers would have discouraged such a thing. But Robert saw opportunity. And he began training them.
Robert Bittlesworth has worked tirelessly in the Home Office for years, managing intelligence in the war against Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna. He also executed a plan to have his father exiled. Now that plan backfires when one of his father's cronies kidnaps the Haberdashers... and the first woman he has ever truly cared about.
Imogen Grant, lately of Boston, has traveled the world with her mother's shipping company. She considers herself an exceptional judge of character, but she has never met anyone like Robert Bittlesworth. He is either the very best or the very worst man of her acquaintance. Can she decide which before she loses her heart?
Robert Bittlesworth has worked tirelessly in the Home Office for years, managing intelligence in the war against Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna. He also executed a plan to have his father exiled. Now that plan backfires when one of his father's cronies kidnaps the Haberdashers... and the first woman he has ever truly cared about.
Imogen Grant, lately of Boston, has traveled the world with her mother's shipping company. She considers herself an exceptional judge of character, but she has never met anyone like Robert Bittlesworth. He is either the very best or the very worst man of her acquaintance. Can she decide which before she loses her heart?
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First published May 31, 2015
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About the author
Sue London
34 books182 followersBest selling author Sue London created the beloved Regency romance series The Haberdashers. If you like your historical romance with a little action, a little humor, and a lot of strong-minded women, then this is the series for you!
Recent reader reactions:
"Sue London is a very gifted writer. I always enjoy reading her books." ~ Annie
"It was so well written, and the storyline is wonderfully thrilling. If I could I would have rated this book a ten, but five is all they allow so that's what it is." ~ Pattimari
"This witty love story enchanted me, and I look forward to reading more of the Haberdashers series." ~ ReaderLady
For more on Sue you can check out her website, twitter page, or be her fan on Facebook.
Recent reader reactions:
"Sue London is a very gifted writer. I always enjoy reading her books." ~ Annie
"It was so well written, and the storyline is wonderfully thrilling. If I could I would have rated this book a ten, but five is all they allow so that's what it is." ~ Pattimari
"This witty love story enchanted me, and I look forward to reading more of the Haberdashers series." ~ ReaderLady
For more on Sue you can check out her website, twitter page, or be her fan on Facebook.
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May 21, 2015An excerpt!
Imogen thought that Mr. Bittlesworth appeared far too smug. It would do him good to be brought down a peg or two. She looked at him, really looked at him, as she didn't often with people. She usually didn't want to see too much. But this man, with his smirk and information he only could have received from Violetta during the supper, had pushed her too far. As they separated again during the country dance she kept her eyes trained on him, endeavoring to see him, see into him. It had been so long since she had attempted to do such a thing she wasn't sure it would work. But it did. And what she saw made her step falter and had her colliding with another dancer.
Seeing her distress, Bittlesworth made straight for her and whisked her off the dance floor. She was torn between a desire to struggle away from him and console him. Death. So much death around him. She shouldn't have looked. She wrapped her arms around herself and focused on pulling her perceptions tightly to her.
"Give her air, please," Bittlesworth was saying, holding his hand up to some well-meaning guest that fluttered nearby. His tone was sharp, commanding. A man used to giving orders.
No, no, no. Stop observing. Stop trying to read him. She closed her eyes tightly and rocked from the waist, her arms a protective shield. The images had flit by so rapidly she hadn't been able to see a pattern, just blood. She had smelled offal and the sweat of desperation. The vision had been overwhelming, but underneath it she had sensed him. His grim determination. His stark sense of justice.
Now she heard his voice sharply in her ear. "Breathe."
His tone cut into her reverie. She took a deep breath and realized they were outside. Her eyes popped open in surprise. They were in the gardens. The scent of roses and gardenias laced the air. She didn't see any other guests around them, and suspected that the foreboding glare Bittlesworth gave their surroundings was the cause of it.
"Were you a soldier?" she asked.
He turned his attention back to her and frowned. "No."
Her mouth was quite dry and her tongue felt thick. "Then why have you killed so many people?"
Imogen thought that Mr. Bittlesworth appeared far too smug. It would do him good to be brought down a peg or two. She looked at him, really looked at him, as she didn't often with people. She usually didn't want to see too much. But this man, with his smirk and information he only could have received from Violetta during the supper, had pushed her too far. As they separated again during the country dance she kept her eyes trained on him, endeavoring to see him, see into him. It had been so long since she had attempted to do such a thing she wasn't sure it would work. But it did. And what she saw made her step falter and had her colliding with another dancer.
Seeing her distress, Bittlesworth made straight for her and whisked her off the dance floor. She was torn between a desire to struggle away from him and console him. Death. So much death around him. She shouldn't have looked. She wrapped her arms around herself and focused on pulling her perceptions tightly to her.
"Give her air, please," Bittlesworth was saying, holding his hand up to some well-meaning guest that fluttered nearby. His tone was sharp, commanding. A man used to giving orders.
No, no, no. Stop observing. Stop trying to read him. She closed her eyes tightly and rocked from the waist, her arms a protective shield. The images had flit by so rapidly she hadn't been able to see a pattern, just blood. She had smelled offal and the sweat of desperation. The vision had been overwhelming, but underneath it she had sensed him. His grim determination. His stark sense of justice.
Now she heard his voice sharply in her ear. "Breathe."
His tone cut into her reverie. She took a deep breath and realized they were outside. Her eyes popped open in surprise. They were in the gardens. The scent of roses and gardenias laced the air. She didn't see any other guests around them, and suspected that the foreboding glare Bittlesworth gave their surroundings was the cause of it.
"Were you a soldier?" she asked.
He turned his attention back to her and frowned. "No."
Her mouth was quite dry and her tongue felt thick. "Then why have you killed so many people?"
June 14, 2015
Vikki’s Musings
I fell in love with the Haberdashers Series when I read a teaser in the boxed set, Scandalous Summer Nights, and I immediately downloaded the all the books in the series that were available. When Ms. London asked me to review Saving Persephone, I agreed enthusiastically. This book is a great addition to the series.
Robert Bittlesworth, heir to a viscountcy and a spy master, lives for his work and defends his brother and sister fiercely. He is all about duty. When he meets Inogen Grant, he is immediately attracted to her and she to him. Imogen, an American from Boston, is like no other woman he has ever known. While single, she lives and travels on her own and takes lovers. To say he is intrigued is putting it mildly.
Imogen is a whimsical creature, out to indulge her fantasies, whether through travel with her mother’s shipping company or by her sexual escapades. Robert is different from other men, and she cannot decide whether he is a good man doing bad things or a bad one doing good. What she does know: She wants him.
Can this unlikely pair make a relationship work between them when there is so much distrust on each side, or will they reveal their true natures and find lasting happiness?
Saving Persephone has complex characters, and at times, I did not like either of them very much, while being drawn to them at the same time. I found Robert’s character easier to love because even though he has done terrible things in his past, essentially, he is an honorable man, willing to do whatever it takes to right a wrong and protect his siblings. When he decides he wants Imogen, he pursues her relentlessly, but when he realizes he is in love with her, he puts her wants above his own, even though those wants are in conflict to his own desires.
I loved the cameos of the Haberdashers from the previous books. Ms. London weaves them into the storyline with a masterful touch. I loved seeing how they tick now that they are happily married. When they are kidnapped along with Imogen, they use their wits to help in their rescue.
While I feel that I did see the many layers of Robert and could see what drove him, I never felt that I truly understood Imogen and her foibles. I could not immerse myself in her character as I like to do. That is why I struggled with empathizing with her. While she had an unconventional upbringing, she had loving parents. I know she has her gift and because of it, she does not want to be around people, but she distances herself so much throughout the story that I felt distance from her as well.
Nonetheless, Saving Persephone is an entertaining read with so much depth. It is important to look below the surface of these characters to find their true motivations. While this is not my favorite among the Haberdashers Series, it is a worthwhile addition. I can’t wait for Charlie’s story. Happy reading!
I fell in love with the Haberdashers Series when I read a teaser in the boxed set, Scandalous Summer Nights, and I immediately downloaded the all the books in the series that were available. When Ms. London asked me to review Saving Persephone, I agreed enthusiastically. This book is a great addition to the series.
Robert Bittlesworth, heir to a viscountcy and a spy master, lives for his work and defends his brother and sister fiercely. He is all about duty. When he meets Inogen Grant, he is immediately attracted to her and she to him. Imogen, an American from Boston, is like no other woman he has ever known. While single, she lives and travels on her own and takes lovers. To say he is intrigued is putting it mildly.
Imogen is a whimsical creature, out to indulge her fantasies, whether through travel with her mother’s shipping company or by her sexual escapades. Robert is different from other men, and she cannot decide whether he is a good man doing bad things or a bad one doing good. What she does know: She wants him.
Can this unlikely pair make a relationship work between them when there is so much distrust on each side, or will they reveal their true natures and find lasting happiness?
Saving Persephone has complex characters, and at times, I did not like either of them very much, while being drawn to them at the same time. I found Robert’s character easier to love because even though he has done terrible things in his past, essentially, he is an honorable man, willing to do whatever it takes to right a wrong and protect his siblings. When he decides he wants Imogen, he pursues her relentlessly, but when he realizes he is in love with her, he puts her wants above his own, even though those wants are in conflict to his own desires.
I loved the cameos of the Haberdashers from the previous books. Ms. London weaves them into the storyline with a masterful touch. I loved seeing how they tick now that they are happily married. When they are kidnapped along with Imogen, they use their wits to help in their rescue.
While I feel that I did see the many layers of Robert and could see what drove him, I never felt that I truly understood Imogen and her foibles. I could not immerse myself in her character as I like to do. That is why I struggled with empathizing with her. While she had an unconventional upbringing, she had loving parents. I know she has her gift and because of it, she does not want to be around people, but she distances herself so much throughout the story that I felt distance from her as well.
Nonetheless, Saving Persephone is an entertaining read with so much depth. It is important to look below the surface of these characters to find their true motivations. While this is not my favorite among the Haberdashers Series, it is a worthwhile addition. I can’t wait for Charlie’s story. Happy reading!
November 24, 2022
not my favorite out of the series but still cute
June 17, 2015
I received what the author refers to as an “Advanced Reading Copy for an Honest Review™.”
I have always had a special fascination with characters who exhibit a dark side, especially when these characters’ dark traits form in light of familial strife combined with positive traits like intelligence, protectiveness, and ambition. In other words, I have been looking forward to Robert’s story since we first met him in the series.
After reading Saving Persephone, I can say that Robert did not disappoint me. The cruelty and detachment shown through previous books take on a new light when readers are given some insight to his inner processes via his unprecedented relationship with Imogen, the heroine. What resonates with me most about Robert is his prevailing tendency toward self-sacrifice motivated on a surface-level by pragmatism but deeper down by genuine caring for his siblings and step-mother. It was also great to see him lose his famous composure and distance in a few places as he tread the treacherous waters of falling in love.
Imogen, the heroine, is different from what we’ve come to expect from a Haberdasher. She’s not a tomboy and she’s not prone to sword play, spy work, or fisticuffs. She’s powerfully and boldly feminine in most respects, even to the extent of having empathic abilities traditionally associated with femininity. Imogen can see the colors of people’s auras and uses the ability to her own ends while remaining too empathetic and sensitive in nature to become truly cutthroat. Robert is a good counter-weight for her because they can battle for control in a heady game of seduction while also balancing each other out.
Imogen and Robert’s attraction for each other burns hot from the opening scene. Generally, immediate attraction of this sort doesn’t engage me, but I found the instantaneous lust redeemable because it isn’t one-sided or treated as a primary conflict of the novel. Imogen, unlike many of her ilk as a regency heroine, is more than a match sexually for the wicked and intelligent Robert; she is supremely comfortable with herself and her sexuality, and she pursues her desires using means that enable her to hold her own against Robert’s force of will and super spy powers. :)
My main criticism is that I feel Imogen’s aura-reading abilities are what make the relationship between her and Robert possible and that is something I find less engaging in a novel. I was glad that the two did not fall into overused sexual tropes often associated with empath characters, but toward the end it felt some parts of their relationship fell into place too quickly. Sometimes authors seem to introduce characters with empathic abilities as a shortcut or plot device to help readers gain insight to difficult characters. I am not certain to what extent Imogen’s abilities served this purpose in Saving Persephone, but without her gift, the relationship between the hero and heroine would not have flourished as quickly as it did in the novel or come to the same end.
For me, the two truly did work as a pairing even as I consciously suspended my disbelief of aura-reading abilities. I was able to remain engaged with the characters and relationships throughout the novel and I genuinely enjoyed the hero and heroine separately as individual characters and together as a couple.
I have always had a special fascination with characters who exhibit a dark side, especially when these characters’ dark traits form in light of familial strife combined with positive traits like intelligence, protectiveness, and ambition. In other words, I have been looking forward to Robert’s story since we first met him in the series.
After reading Saving Persephone, I can say that Robert did not disappoint me. The cruelty and detachment shown through previous books take on a new light when readers are given some insight to his inner processes via his unprecedented relationship with Imogen, the heroine. What resonates with me most about Robert is his prevailing tendency toward self-sacrifice motivated on a surface-level by pragmatism but deeper down by genuine caring for his siblings and step-mother. It was also great to see him lose his famous composure and distance in a few places as he tread the treacherous waters of falling in love.
Imogen, the heroine, is different from what we’ve come to expect from a Haberdasher. She’s not a tomboy and she’s not prone to sword play, spy work, or fisticuffs. She’s powerfully and boldly feminine in most respects, even to the extent of having empathic abilities traditionally associated with femininity. Imogen can see the colors of people’s auras and uses the ability to her own ends while remaining too empathetic and sensitive in nature to become truly cutthroat. Robert is a good counter-weight for her because they can battle for control in a heady game of seduction while also balancing each other out.
Imogen and Robert’s attraction for each other burns hot from the opening scene. Generally, immediate attraction of this sort doesn’t engage me, but I found the instantaneous lust redeemable because it isn’t one-sided or treated as a primary conflict of the novel. Imogen, unlike many of her ilk as a regency heroine, is more than a match sexually for the wicked and intelligent Robert; she is supremely comfortable with herself and her sexuality, and she pursues her desires using means that enable her to hold her own against Robert’s force of will and super spy powers. :)
My main criticism is that I feel Imogen’s aura-reading abilities are what make the relationship between her and Robert possible and that is something I find less engaging in a novel. I was glad that the two did not fall into overused sexual tropes often associated with empath characters, but toward the end it felt some parts of their relationship fell into place too quickly. Sometimes authors seem to introduce characters with empathic abilities as a shortcut or plot device to help readers gain insight to difficult characters. I am not certain to what extent Imogen’s abilities served this purpose in Saving Persephone, but without her gift, the relationship between the hero and heroine would not have flourished as quickly as it did in the novel or come to the same end.
For me, the two truly did work as a pairing even as I consciously suspended my disbelief of aura-reading abilities. I was able to remain engaged with the characters and relationships throughout the novel and I genuinely enjoyed the hero and heroine separately as individual characters and together as a couple.
December 8, 2017
I've been a fan of the Haberdashers since the beginning and been waiting for Robert’s story rather eagerly. I get how he felt responsible for everyone and why he helped the girls be independent and determined since he was the oldest in the group. His dark and at-times selfish attitude were just a part of what he was, and whether I liked it or not, it was still Robert. In this story, we get to see a much different side of him.
“He will do anything for someone he loves. Not in the romantic sense, how the poets would woo you. In a very real sense, unbound by any restrictions of morality or self-preservation.”
Robert is the kind of person that stops at nothing to get what he wants, including putting those close to him in danger. Also, he’s always suspicious, always guarded, always vigilant. Thus, when he meets the enticing Imogen, he’s attracted to her but believes she might have been sent by one of his enemies to get information out of him. Lively Imogen has a special gift as she can feel other people’s emotions and see the color of their aura. This becomes handy when it comes to getting herself and the Haberdashers out of trouble but also when it comes to Robert as she gets to understand him better than anyone ever could. It wasn't like Robert didn’t care about other’s welfare; it was more like he knew they were capable of handling themselves. It wasn't that he was a cunning, cold-hearted man, but rather he was objective and liked order in his life to better handle any unforeseen situation and to better protect those around him. And Imogen saw past the controlling man. She was able to bring out the caring, tender, capable of all kinds of love man. All of that I liked.
“It might not be the sort of innocent adoration that many brides felt for their husbands, but she knew that what she felt for him was deep, and honest, and true. Perhaps he had a dark past, but it did not define him.”
I always loved Robert for what he was and I liked that his heroine was a strong, passionate, determined woman as well and not a meek, virginal debutant. However, I didn't like the fact he changed, because he does change for her, and that left me with a sort of vexing feeling. It was like in the end it wasn't really Robert.
I didn't like where his arc took him and I certainly hope that is not the last I hear him of him because all that intelligence, all that cleverness, all that passion cannot, I repeat, cannot end just there! It just felt as if he'd passed on the title of Head of Haberdashers to someone else and that just felt wrong… le sigh.
Anywho, as with past books, there is plenty of action and funny situations. The “girls” get to prove their skills and we get to hear the story from all of their POV, including the gentlemen’s, which I thought was very gratifying. This is the 4th book in the series so I'd suggest reading the series in order to get a better idea of who is who and not feel lost by jumping right in. I will definitely continue reading the series because now more than ever I want to know where the story will go from here and because I will not deny myself the pleasure of reading one of my favorite series. 4 ½ stars.
** I was gifted a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review **
“He will do anything for someone he loves. Not in the romantic sense, how the poets would woo you. In a very real sense, unbound by any restrictions of morality or self-preservation.”
Robert is the kind of person that stops at nothing to get what he wants, including putting those close to him in danger. Also, he’s always suspicious, always guarded, always vigilant. Thus, when he meets the enticing Imogen, he’s attracted to her but believes she might have been sent by one of his enemies to get information out of him. Lively Imogen has a special gift as she can feel other people’s emotions and see the color of their aura. This becomes handy when it comes to getting herself and the Haberdashers out of trouble but also when it comes to Robert as she gets to understand him better than anyone ever could. It wasn't like Robert didn’t care about other’s welfare; it was more like he knew they were capable of handling themselves. It wasn't that he was a cunning, cold-hearted man, but rather he was objective and liked order in his life to better handle any unforeseen situation and to better protect those around him. And Imogen saw past the controlling man. She was able to bring out the caring, tender, capable of all kinds of love man. All of that I liked.
“It might not be the sort of innocent adoration that many brides felt for their husbands, but she knew that what she felt for him was deep, and honest, and true. Perhaps he had a dark past, but it did not define him.”
I always loved Robert for what he was and I liked that his heroine was a strong, passionate, determined woman as well and not a meek, virginal debutant. However, I didn't like the fact he changed, because he does change for her, and that left me with a sort of vexing feeling. It was like in the end it wasn't really Robert.
I didn't like where his arc took him and I certainly hope that is not the last I hear him of him because all that intelligence, all that cleverness, all that passion cannot, I repeat, cannot end just there! It just felt as if he'd passed on the title of Head of Haberdashers to someone else and that just felt wrong… le sigh.
Anywho, as with past books, there is plenty of action and funny situations. The “girls” get to prove their skills and we get to hear the story from all of their POV, including the gentlemen’s, which I thought was very gratifying. This is the 4th book in the series so I'd suggest reading the series in order to get a better idea of who is who and not feel lost by jumping right in. I will definitely continue reading the series because now more than ever I want to know where the story will go from here and because I will not deny myself the pleasure of reading one of my favorite series. 4 ½ stars.
** I was gifted a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review **
July 7, 2015
Swashbuckling!!
January 19, 2018
I think this one is my fave - we see the women in action!
May 25, 2015
Saving Persephone is Robert Bittlesworth's story and it is great. Lovely, complicated plot with plenty of twists and turns including the reappearance of a very evil man, one of The Four we were introduced to in Athena's Ordeal.
Imogen, daughter of a Scottish laird and an American woman who owns a shipping business, has traveled extensively around the world. She has the gift of empathy and is able to read people's emotions. As a consequence she prefers to avoid strong emotional connections. She literally runs into Robert on the street and the two of them are immediately attracted to one another. Robert is a very complex man who has spent many years living in his head, running intelligence operations for the Home Office. Watching their relationship gradually unfold is loads of fun.
For me one of the best parts of this book was having an opportunity to spend time with all the main characters from the previous Haberdasher books. Jack and Gideon, Sabre and Quince, George and Casimir are all part of the action and each tell parts of the story from their point of view. Imogen's impressions of each of the three Haberdashers is fascinating because she sees their deeper motivations. I did get the sense Sue London was tying some threads together in this book concerning these ladies before moving on to the next stage in her series.
We do learn more about Charlie Bittlesworth in this book and it turns out there is much more to him than meets the eye. Sue is setting the stage for his book after all.
Imogen, daughter of a Scottish laird and an American woman who owns a shipping business, has traveled extensively around the world. She has the gift of empathy and is able to read people's emotions. As a consequence she prefers to avoid strong emotional connections. She literally runs into Robert on the street and the two of them are immediately attracted to one another. Robert is a very complex man who has spent many years living in his head, running intelligence operations for the Home Office. Watching their relationship gradually unfold is loads of fun.
For me one of the best parts of this book was having an opportunity to spend time with all the main characters from the previous Haberdasher books. Jack and Gideon, Sabre and Quince, George and Casimir are all part of the action and each tell parts of the story from their point of view. Imogen's impressions of each of the three Haberdashers is fascinating because she sees their deeper motivations. I did get the sense Sue London was tying some threads together in this book concerning these ladies before moving on to the next stage in her series.
We do learn more about Charlie Bittlesworth in this book and it turns out there is much more to him than meets the eye. Sue is setting the stage for his book after all.
June 2, 2015
I would rate this book 4.5 stars - rounded up. I liked this book but not as much as the other books in the series.
I loved Robert - he is a very complexed man who likes to have total control. Watching him fall in love, was the best part of this book.
Imogen was a very unique heroine and while Ms London did a very good job of sharing her "talents" with the reader, I was still left wondering about her motivations. I never really felt like I knew Imogen. Her character is very unconventional and that didn't really sit well with me for the time period she was written in. She is 22, well traveled, has had multiple lovers and is very independent. It is hard for me to believe that in this era she would be so well received.
I loved the interaction between Robert and Imogen - they are truly kindred spirits and are a perfect match for each other.
This book had several appearances of the Haberdashers and let us peek into their respective HEAs. It also let us get to know Charlie a little better.
As always, the book is well written, the plot flows nicely, the love scenes are spicy without being graphic, the villain is nasty and gets his comeuppance. In short, it has it all.
I really love this series and can't wait for Charlie's book. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who likes HR.
**i received a copy of this book from author with no request for a review**
I loved Robert - he is a very complexed man who likes to have total control. Watching him fall in love, was the best part of this book.
Imogen was a very unique heroine and while Ms London did a very good job of sharing her "talents" with the reader, I was still left wondering about her motivations. I never really felt like I knew Imogen. Her character is very unconventional and that didn't really sit well with me for the time period she was written in. She is 22, well traveled, has had multiple lovers and is very independent. It is hard for me to believe that in this era she would be so well received.
I loved the interaction between Robert and Imogen - they are truly kindred spirits and are a perfect match for each other.
This book had several appearances of the Haberdashers and let us peek into their respective HEAs. It also let us get to know Charlie a little better.
As always, the book is well written, the plot flows nicely, the love scenes are spicy without being graphic, the villain is nasty and gets his comeuppance. In short, it has it all.
I really love this series and can't wait for Charlie's book. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who likes HR.
**i received a copy of this book from author with no request for a review**
May 26, 2015
I received an early copy in exchange for a fair review.
I thought this would be a hard book to read because Robert has been a rather dark presence int he other books - his sister is afraid of him, he set plans in place that almost kills Quince, he sets George up as a spy... Plenty of negative material, right?
But I loved him. He had depths that none of Sue London's prior characters have show. And I love to see him struggle with being human. I had all the feels.
Which leads me to the only problem I had with this - Imogen. I tried, really really tried to like her, and while I never disliked her, I kept thinking that Robert could do better. Because Imogen is shallow and self centered. Mind you, she has damn good reasons for this, but I didn't see the growth in her that I would have liked. It was mostly Robert reaching out, rather than Imogen trying to meet him half way.
That being said, it was a good book, with one of the best opening paragraphs I've ever had the pleasure of reading. An exciting, well paced story, and cameo appearances of all the prior characters. I can't wait to read Charlie's tale next!
I thought this would be a hard book to read because Robert has been a rather dark presence int he other books - his sister is afraid of him, he set plans in place that almost kills Quince, he sets George up as a spy... Plenty of negative material, right?
But I loved him. He had depths that none of Sue London's prior characters have show. And I love to see him struggle with being human. I had all the feels.
Which leads me to the only problem I had with this - Imogen. I tried, really really tried to like her, and while I never disliked her, I kept thinking that Robert could do better. Because Imogen is shallow and self centered. Mind you, she has damn good reasons for this, but I didn't see the growth in her that I would have liked. It was mostly Robert reaching out, rather than Imogen trying to meet him half way.
That being said, it was a good book, with one of the best opening paragraphs I've ever had the pleasure of reading. An exciting, well paced story, and cameo appearances of all the prior characters. I can't wait to read Charlie's tale next!
May 25, 2015
Saving Persephone by Sue London
Haberdashers Series Book Four
Robert Bittlesworth was in control of himself and everything around him. He worked for the Home Office and was the best agent. Then one small run-in with a woman put a hitch in his controlled life.
American Imogen Grant had traveled with her mother's shipping company since a child. She had been everywhere and lived her life as she wanted. She loved her freedom and wasn't about to let anyone slow her down. She chose who would be her lover and for how long. Only things went a bit awry when she crossed paths with Robert Bittlesworth.
Imogen is a heroine unlike any I've ever met. She is quite unconventional in her life and unique how she can read people. Of course, she does lack those incredible fighting skills like those Haberdashers. Another great edition to this series and as always, I loved seeing characters from the previous books.
**Sexual content and language
**Received copy from author for honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Haberdashers Series Book Four
Robert Bittlesworth was in control of himself and everything around him. He worked for the Home Office and was the best agent. Then one small run-in with a woman put a hitch in his controlled life.
American Imogen Grant had traveled with her mother's shipping company since a child. She had been everywhere and lived her life as she wanted. She loved her freedom and wasn't about to let anyone slow her down. She chose who would be her lover and for how long. Only things went a bit awry when she crossed paths with Robert Bittlesworth.
Imogen is a heroine unlike any I've ever met. She is quite unconventional in her life and unique how she can read people. Of course, she does lack those incredible fighting skills like those Haberdashers. Another great edition to this series and as always, I loved seeing characters from the previous books.
**Sexual content and language
**Received copy from author for honest review
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
January 23, 2021
This author creates interesting characters that are just different enough to avoid the usual romance tropes. But she struggles with endings. They are just too abrupt. This book didn’t even end with the primary characters, but the lovers from previous books. I get that this is a series, but it’s the kind of series where each love story is it’s own book so they should work a little better as stand-alones, at least in theory.
This book had the most excitement of all four thus far in the series. I literally couldn’t put it down, even though I had other things I really had to be doing. That alone garnered it 3*. I also enjoyed the development of Robert’s character. However, the Romance between he and Imogen was awkward. As intentional as that was, it felt as though they just decided to be in love at the end like turning on a switch. For me, this left something to be desired.
I almost gave this 2* because the last 20 pages really left me wanting, but I couldn’t forget how the middle, with the kidnapping, had me so enthralled.
This book had the most excitement of all four thus far in the series. I literally couldn’t put it down, even though I had other things I really had to be doing. That alone garnered it 3*. I also enjoyed the development of Robert’s character. However, the Romance between he and Imogen was awkward. As intentional as that was, it felt as though they just decided to be in love at the end like turning on a switch. For me, this left something to be desired.
I almost gave this 2* because the last 20 pages really left me wanting, but I couldn’t forget how the middle, with the kidnapping, had me so enthralled.
November 28, 2016
Robert has been embroiled in much of the misery of the Haberdashers, but always with good intentions. He's dangerous, everyone says, but Imogen, in particular, can read him through his aura and see how deeply he cares for others.
Imogen seems less effected by Robert, but comes around, although it could have happened more gradually than it did. Robert doesn't even realize that what he's feeling is love, he's so used to thinking in terms of protection and control.
What I enjoy most in this series is the intertwining of characters in the tales, so that the complexity of relationships grows, and the characters consistently remain themselves while developing further in the adventures.
This time, the Haberdashers are kidnapped, along with Imogen, and they do their share of fighting while awaiting their husband's and Robert's rescue.
Looking forward to Charlie's story in the next instalment.
Imogen seems less effected by Robert, but comes around, although it could have happened more gradually than it did. Robert doesn't even realize that what he's feeling is love, he's so used to thinking in terms of protection and control.
What I enjoy most in this series is the intertwining of characters in the tales, so that the complexity of relationships grows, and the characters consistently remain themselves while developing further in the adventures.
This time, the Haberdashers are kidnapped, along with Imogen, and they do their share of fighting while awaiting their husband's and Robert's rescue.
Looking forward to Charlie's story in the next instalment.
historical
January 23, 2019In 1805 Robert Bittlesworth's little sister and her two best friends decided to create a "boys club" because boys have more fun. Most protective older brothers would have discouraged such a thing. But Robert saw opportunity. And he began training them.
Robert Bittlesworth has worked tirelessly in the Home Office for years, managing intelligence in the war against Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna. He also executed a plan to have his father exiled. Now that plan backfires when one of his father's cronies kidnaps the Haberdashers... and the first woman he has ever truly cared about.
Imogen Grant, lately of Boston, has traveled the world with her mother's shipping company. She considers herself an exceptional judge of character, but she has never met anyone like Robert Bittlesworth. He is either the very best or the very worst man of her acquaintance. Can she decide which before she loses her heart?
Robert Bittlesworth has worked tirelessly in the Home Office for years, managing intelligence in the war against Napoleon and the Congress of Vienna. He also executed a plan to have his father exiled. Now that plan backfires when one of his father's cronies kidnaps the Haberdashers... and the first woman he has ever truly cared about.
Imogen Grant, lately of Boston, has traveled the world with her mother's shipping company. She considers herself an exceptional judge of character, but she has never met anyone like Robert Bittlesworth. He is either the very best or the very worst man of her acquaintance. Can she decide which before she loses her heart?
June 6, 2015
Saving Persephone by Sue London
I loved it! I knew Robert's story would be good ! Imogen was perfect for him! When the haberdashers got kidnapped Imogen's talents became clear! She completely complemented their talents! Imogen always wished she had siblings! Now she does! Robert was totally perplexed by Imogen. It was so humorous to me to watch Robert flounder! It was great! Mr. Always in control no heart everything always had to be precisely thought out and planned! It's hilarious to watch Imogen totally throw him into chaos! I knew his and Imogen's story would be my favorite !! It was action packed humorous very sexy romance!! You have a winner in this book Sue London!! It will be interesting to see what she has in store for Charlie!!! I can't wait!
I loved it! I knew Robert's story would be good ! Imogen was perfect for him! When the haberdashers got kidnapped Imogen's talents became clear! She completely complemented their talents! Imogen always wished she had siblings! Now she does! Robert was totally perplexed by Imogen. It was so humorous to me to watch Robert flounder! It was great! Mr. Always in control no heart everything always had to be precisely thought out and planned! It's hilarious to watch Imogen totally throw him into chaos! I knew his and Imogen's story would be my favorite !! It was action packed humorous very sexy romance!! You have a winner in this book Sue London!! It will be interesting to see what she has in store for Charlie!!! I can't wait!
August 17, 2015
The Haberdasher series is a funny, intriguing and intense series. Robert is the most intense character throughout the series and Imogen is the perfect answer to him. Imogen has a gift that allows her to see into peoples emotions and feelings. They become lovers but neither wants marriage or love. Imogen is kidnapped along with the Haberdashers and Robert believes that she is behind the kidnapping. After the rescue, Robert is convinced by his sister that Imogen is innocent. It is then that he realizes that his feelings have grown and now he must convince Imogen to take a chance on him. This is a wonderful story of love overcoming emotions.
June 3, 2015
I really enjoyed this book - not my favorite in the series, but still very enjoyable. Sue does a great job with this whole series. Based on the description, I was prepared to not like Imogen, but I was pleasantly surprised. I also appreciated the further insight into Robert (he has been a mysterious and often frustrating character throughout the Haberdashers series).
Given the tease around Charlie's aura, I'm definitely looking forward to Taming Chiron (I also LOVE the name of that book - so appropriate).
Given the tease around Charlie's aura, I'm definitely looking forward to Taming Chiron (I also LOVE the name of that book - so appropriate).
July 2, 2016
Wow!
I really like this series and I am so glad that Robert had some redeeming qualities. I wasn't sure I could like him, but he turns out to be human after all. I love the way his brain works. It was definitely a different romance with so many unexpected twists. The one thing I thought that was kind of left hanging were the four. It just felt like some loose ends but maybe they will turn up in another book. All of these books can be read as stand alone books but this one has a lot more meaning if you read the previous books. I highly recommend them.
I really like this series and I am so glad that Robert had some redeeming qualities. I wasn't sure I could like him, but he turns out to be human after all. I love the way his brain works. It was definitely a different romance with so many unexpected twists. The one thing I thought that was kind of left hanging were the four. It just felt like some loose ends but maybe they will turn up in another book. All of these books can be read as stand alone books but this one has a lot more meaning if you read the previous books. I highly recommend them.
June 9, 2015
This is a very very different story. You have to love the members of the boys club. I was not expecting her to be a woman that not only doesn't want to marry, but has lovers and I was jumping up and down when I found out her talent of reading people. I was going crazy wanting to know about his past and when I read the part about his mother I cringed because I was not expecting that. There was just so much to love.
June 2, 2015
I was given a free copy of this
book in exchange for an honest review.
Imogen is the perfect match for Robert, and I really enjoyed the book. There is a good balance of Haberdasher adventures and romance. I didn't want to put it down.
I can't wait to read the next book. Loved it!
book in exchange for an honest review.
Imogen is the perfect match for Robert, and I really enjoyed the book. There is a good balance of Haberdasher adventures and romance. I didn't want to put it down.
I can't wait to read the next book. Loved it!
September 16, 2015
Best so far
More adventure, interesting lead characters and a complex romance make this the best in the series so far. I love a sword fight in a romance. Much more interesting that way !
More adventure, interesting lead characters and a complex romance make this the best in the series so far. I love a sword fight in a romance. Much more interesting that way !
Read
January 22, 2016Great book! This author is on my must read list.
June 5, 2023
Another Great Story
I love the Haberdashers and the men who have claimed them as wives. Each tale has its own intriguing mystery and suspense. Delightful women who are also dangerous when set upon. This series is fun reading and each book you will not want to put down.
I love the Haberdashers and the men who have claimed them as wives. Each tale has its own intriguing mystery and suspense. Delightful women who are also dangerous when set upon. This series is fun reading and each book you will not want to put down.
October 28, 2015
This book fell flat for me
I have liked all the handicappers books so far, but this one left me feeling disappointed. I found that I could not get myself to like the heroine . I found her selfish and somewhat undeserving of roberts love. She spent most of her time running away from hard choices of life. I also found it odd that a condition of her marriage to Robert was that she wanted no children.
I have liked all the handicappers books so far, but this one left me feeling disappointed. I found that I could not get myself to like the heroine . I found her selfish and somewhat undeserving of roberts love. She spent most of her time running away from hard choices of life. I also found it odd that a condition of her marriage to Robert was that she wanted no children.
January 13, 2016
Loved the book and the story btwn Robert and Imogene!! Both strong willed and loving their freedom these two are perfect for each other!! Another great book by Sue London!!
January 15, 2016
I didn't love this. It was a struggle to finish (luckily I was on a plane and had copious wine to help out).
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