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Half Moon House #2
The Leading Lady
Miss Callie Grant has hidden her true identity her entire life, but now elements from her past are threatening to destroy England’s future. To save someone she loves, she agrees to a dangerous mission--and to masquerade as the bride of Lord Truitt Russell.
Lord Truitt wants only one thing--to restore his honor. Only the capture of the Wicked Lord Marstoke will do the job. But the intimacy of playing husband to the gorgeous, infuriatingly independent Callie Grant proves a temptation difficult to resist. In the end, which will he choose? Honor or Love?
Passion and secrets swirl--and the battle between Hestia Wright and her enemies continues--in another delicious installment of the Half Moon House series.
Lord Truitt wants only one thing--to restore his honor. Only the capture of the Wicked Lord Marstoke will do the job. But the intimacy of playing husband to the gorgeous, infuriatingly independent Callie Grant proves a temptation difficult to resist. In the end, which will he choose? Honor or Love?
Passion and secrets swirl--and the battle between Hestia Wright and her enemies continues--in another delicious installment of the Half Moon House series.
274 pages, ebook
First published May 21, 2015
65 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Deb Marlowe
87 books433 followersUSA Today Bestseller Deb Marlowe loves History, England and Men in Boots. Clearly she was destined to write Historical Romance and Mystery.
A Golden Heart winner and Rita Finalist, Deb grew up in Pennsylvania with her nose in a book. Luckily, she'd read enough romances to recognize the true modern hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo T-shirt instead of breeches and tall boots.
A proud geek, history buff and story addict, she loves to talk with readers and to create historical recipes in her modern kitchen. Check it out at Deb Marlowe's Historical Kitchen on her website.
A Golden Heart winner and Rita Finalist, Deb grew up in Pennsylvania with her nose in a book. Luckily, she'd read enough romances to recognize the true modern hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo T-shirt instead of breeches and tall boots.
A proud geek, history buff and story addict, she loves to talk with readers and to create historical recipes in her modern kitchen. Check it out at Deb Marlowe's Historical Kitchen on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 10, 2018
What a pleasure to pick up a book by a new to me author and thoroughly enjoy it! <3
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the first one yet I never felt lost or like I needed to read the first one first.
I love enemies to lovers stories and this one hit the mark in all the right places. Callie is smart, determined, caring, and knows how to fight against injustices in a world where men set the rules. Although Truitt was at first hesitant of working alongside such woman, he learned to admire her both as a fighter and as a woman. Their romance had the perfect pace and their chemistry, in and outside the bedroom, was perfect as well. They made have made a few mistakes towards the end but overall they made a pretty good team. I think they are one of my favorite couples ever.
So the romance was wonderful but it was not the only good thing about the book. Not exactly a story about spies it had some its elements. The suspense was engaging from the start and it kept me turning the pages even when it wasn’t about the two main characters, which is always a good thing. Most of the story takes place in France and I loved that the author didn’t use any “accented” dialogue nor used unnecessary situations to remind me where the story was taking place.
With complex, fun characters; suspense, action, and romance, this is a story I definitely recommend to anyone that enjoys stories outside ballrooms.
*I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher*
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the first one yet I never felt lost or like I needed to read the first one first.
I love enemies to lovers stories and this one hit the mark in all the right places. Callie is smart, determined, caring, and knows how to fight against injustices in a world where men set the rules. Although Truitt was at first hesitant of working alongside such woman, he learned to admire her both as a fighter and as a woman. Their romance had the perfect pace and their chemistry, in and outside the bedroom, was perfect as well. They made have made a few mistakes towards the end but overall they made a pretty good team. I think they are one of my favorite couples ever.
So the romance was wonderful but it was not the only good thing about the book. Not exactly a story about spies it had some its elements. The suspense was engaging from the start and it kept me turning the pages even when it wasn’t about the two main characters, which is always a good thing. Most of the story takes place in France and I loved that the author didn’t use any “accented” dialogue nor used unnecessary situations to remind me where the story was taking place.
With complex, fun characters; suspense, action, and romance, this is a story I definitely recommend to anyone that enjoys stories outside ballrooms.
*I received this book at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher*
June 30, 2015
"The Leading Lady" by Deb Marlowe is a delicious Regency Historical Romance.
Another installment in the highly anticipated "Half Moon House" series, can be read as a stand alone. However, I would highly recommend reading this amazing series by this very talented author. Filled with secrets, passion, a bit of danger and romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this sassy and smart heroine and this sexy hero.
Fast paced tale with surprises, charming characters and a unique storyline. Well written with tale. Ms. Marlowe is an amazing storyteller who tells a story with gusto, enthusiasm and charm. I absolutely love this series! Highly recommended! Another hit added to this author's list of hits. Fans of Regency Romance, Historical Romance with sex heroes and sassy heroines, are sure to enjoy "The Leading Lady". Haven't picked up your cooy, hurry and do so, you won't regret tour choice. An awesome rand delicious Regency Romance.
Reading order for the Half Moon House Series:
An Unexpected Encounter
The Love List
A Slight Miscalculation (Free!)
Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
A Waltz in the Park
The Leading Lady
*Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating : 4.5
Heat rating : Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Another installment in the highly anticipated "Half Moon House" series, can be read as a stand alone. However, I would highly recommend reading this amazing series by this very talented author. Filled with secrets, passion, a bit of danger and romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this sassy and smart heroine and this sexy hero.
Fast paced tale with surprises, charming characters and a unique storyline. Well written with tale. Ms. Marlowe is an amazing storyteller who tells a story with gusto, enthusiasm and charm. I absolutely love this series! Highly recommended! Another hit added to this author's list of hits. Fans of Regency Romance, Historical Romance with sex heroes and sassy heroines, are sure to enjoy "The Leading Lady". Haven't picked up your cooy, hurry and do so, you won't regret tour choice. An awesome rand delicious Regency Romance.
Reading order for the Half Moon House Series:
An Unexpected Encounter
The Love List
A Slight Miscalculation (Free!)
Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
A Waltz in the Park
The Leading Lady
*Received for an honest review from the author*
Rating : 4.5
Heat rating : Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
May 29, 2015
Lord Truitt is a man who is desperately trying to recover his honor, after it was ruined by Lord Marstoke. Miss Callie Grant, who is first introduced to us in the book by passionately standing up for a friend, has hidden her true identity but finds she must work with Tru (and pretend to be his wife)! Of course, Hestia Wright plays an important role. I loved seeing the snippets of her journal at the start of each chapter, allowing us an more in-depth look at her. An author who can merge two stories like that together shows a lot of strength, and Ms. Marlowe pulls it off!
This isn't just a romance book, but it's filled with mystery and intrigue, designed to keep the reader on her toes. You find yourself immediately drawn into the story. The characters are strongly developed. Ms. Marlowe's writing is passionate and strong. While everything seems to be wrapped up at the end, Ms. Marlowe makes it clear that we have not seen the last of Marstoke! Which means, there is more Hestia to come. :)
This isn't just a romance book, but it's filled with mystery and intrigue, designed to keep the reader on her toes. You find yourself immediately drawn into the story. The characters are strongly developed. Ms. Marlowe's writing is passionate and strong. While everything seems to be wrapped up at the end, Ms. Marlowe makes it clear that we have not seen the last of Marstoke! Which means, there is more Hestia to come. :)
November 24, 2018
If you had a chance to change your life even if it means letting go of something or someone even if it might break your heart would you take it?
Callie Grant is a girl who only ever thinks of others and never takes time for herself. She protects the women of Half Moon House against nasty husbands, pimps and thieves. She’s always getting someone out of trouble even at her own peril. She can take care of herself shes been trained to keep safe and fend off attackers.
Lord Truitt Russell has spent several months nursing his wounded pride. Jumping to save someone put him in the middle of a treasonous venture and he nearly escaped without being hanged. Now he must redeem himself and reclaim his reputation by finding Marstoke who forced him into that situation.
Callie’s best friend married Truitt’s brother the Duke, they’ve disliked each other since. With Callie looking for the girl Marstoke took from Half Moon House and Truitt searching for him as well they are asked to combine forces. They must push back their dislike for each other and act as husband and wife and make it believable.
They begin to see the good in each other, see the person they really are and start to form a intimate friendship they thought was impossible. Can they tell each other their life’s secrets and totally trust in the other and open themselves to possible ridicule or will they make a friend for a lifetime? Not confiding in each other and thinking they are protecting the other from possible dangers may end the fragile hold they have on their hearts. The new found trust they have may crumble and never be repaired.
I’ve really enjoyed this series, this one had a great storyline but it drag a bit for me and didn’t keep my attention as much as the last one. The best part of the book was the last 30 or so pages when Callie and Truitt found what they really needed out of life.
Callie Grant is a girl who only ever thinks of others and never takes time for herself. She protects the women of Half Moon House against nasty husbands, pimps and thieves. She’s always getting someone out of trouble even at her own peril. She can take care of herself shes been trained to keep safe and fend off attackers.
Lord Truitt Russell has spent several months nursing his wounded pride. Jumping to save someone put him in the middle of a treasonous venture and he nearly escaped without being hanged. Now he must redeem himself and reclaim his reputation by finding Marstoke who forced him into that situation.
Callie’s best friend married Truitt’s brother the Duke, they’ve disliked each other since. With Callie looking for the girl Marstoke took from Half Moon House and Truitt searching for him as well they are asked to combine forces. They must push back their dislike for each other and act as husband and wife and make it believable.
They begin to see the good in each other, see the person they really are and start to form a intimate friendship they thought was impossible. Can they tell each other their life’s secrets and totally trust in the other and open themselves to possible ridicule or will they make a friend for a lifetime? Not confiding in each other and thinking they are protecting the other from possible dangers may end the fragile hold they have on their hearts. The new found trust they have may crumble and never be repaired.
I’ve really enjoyed this series, this one had a great storyline but it drag a bit for me and didn’t keep my attention as much as the last one. The best part of the book was the last 30 or so pages when Callie and Truitt found what they really needed out of life.
February 13, 2019
The Leading Lady is the second book in the Half Moon House series by Deb Marlowe. I think that it might have been better if I had read the first book in the series before this one. Although the book made sense, I think knowing more about the evil Lord Marstoke and exactly what he got up to in relation to Lord Truitt becoming disgraced, would have been good. All which happened in the first book. I might already know what happens next, but I enjoyed this book so much that it will be no hardship going back and reading the first one.
So, Lord Truitt has been disgraced and he wants to do all in his power to capture Marstoke and see justice served. Of course, he wants to mend his reputation too. A careful plan is set up, part of which involves Miss Callie Grant.
Callie's sister has willingly, it seems, run away with Margate and she will do anything to get her from his clutches. That means her working with Lord Truitt, acting as his wife, both undercover. She doesn't even like Truitt, in fact, she would rather have nothing to do with him at all. But needs must, and she agrees to the plan.
Spending time together allows them to see a side to each other that they admire and despite it not being the best of times to perhaps be falling in love that is what they seem to be doing.
Watching their developing romantic feelings was a real delight. Add to that the suspense of them trying to catch Margate and I couldn't read this book quickly enough. The plan was convoluted and a lot could go wrong, and at times it does, but can they rescue Callie's sister before it's too late? It was exciting right up to the very last minute. Be warned though, there is a huge cliffhanger so if you don't like them make sure you buy the next book in the series ready to continue the story!
So, Lord Truitt has been disgraced and he wants to do all in his power to capture Marstoke and see justice served. Of course, he wants to mend his reputation too. A careful plan is set up, part of which involves Miss Callie Grant.
Callie's sister has willingly, it seems, run away with Margate and she will do anything to get her from his clutches. That means her working with Lord Truitt, acting as his wife, both undercover. She doesn't even like Truitt, in fact, she would rather have nothing to do with him at all. But needs must, and she agrees to the plan.
Spending time together allows them to see a side to each other that they admire and despite it not being the best of times to perhaps be falling in love that is what they seem to be doing.
Watching their developing romantic feelings was a real delight. Add to that the suspense of them trying to catch Margate and I couldn't read this book quickly enough. The plan was convoluted and a lot could go wrong, and at times it does, but can they rescue Callie's sister before it's too late? It was exciting right up to the very last minute. Be warned though, there is a huge cliffhanger so if you don't like them make sure you buy the next book in the series ready to continue the story!
December 5, 2018
Miss Callie Grant has hidden her true identity her entire life, but now elements from her past are threatening to destroy England’s future. To save Letty, someone she loves, she agrees to a dangerous mission and to masquerade as the wife of Lord Truitt Russell.
Tru wants only one thing to restore his honour, which was brought into question when he became involved with the Lord Marstoke. Only the capture of the Wicked Lord will do the job.
This is the second book in the Half Moon series & whilst it could be read on its own I feel to fully appreciate it, it is best read after the first book. Tru & Callie don't like each other but are attracted to each other. However the more time they spend together the more they get to know each other & realise first impressions can be deceptive. A well written very well paced book that I raced through & was totally captivated. I particularly loved the extracts from Hestia’s journal at the start of each chapter.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Tru wants only one thing to restore his honour, which was brought into question when he became involved with the Lord Marstoke. Only the capture of the Wicked Lord will do the job.
This is the second book in the Half Moon series & whilst it could be read on its own I feel to fully appreciate it, it is best read after the first book. Tru & Callie don't like each other but are attracted to each other. However the more time they spend together the more they get to know each other & realise first impressions can be deceptive. A well written very well paced book that I raced through & was totally captivated. I particularly loved the extracts from Hestia’s journal at the start of each chapter.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 7, 2018
We met Callie and Tru in the first book and now we get to see more of them. Callie is Hestia's right arm. She can be deadly when confronted and doesn't trust too many people. Especially Tru. Tru doesn't trust Callie either. His only aim is to get Lord Marstoke and he doesn't care who gets in the way, because he will get him. Callie is only after her sister and will not let Tru get in her way. Now they are working together and the more they are together, the more they realize that they have been wrong about each other. Will they be able to save Letty, get Lord Marstoke and stay together?
July 31, 2021
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. The Leading Lady by Deb Marlowe is the second book her her delightful Half Moon House Series. You could read it as a stand-alone however I think you will enjoy it more if you read the books in order. In order to help someone she loves Callie Grant agrees to pretend to be married to Lord Truitt Russell, but when she does she discovers that not only is her heart in trouble but her true identify may end up being revealed. This is a fast-paced and suspenseful enemies-to-lovers story with a nasty villain. I enjoyed reading it very much and recommend this book and the other books in the series.
April 12, 2024
A Rousing Book 2 —- Yay!
I am so pleased to give Book 2 five stars. The plot and the excitement from all the characters was so much better than the first book in the series. This one I couldn’t put down. I thought the heroine in Book 1 was ahead of her time. Callie, in Book 2, became a star in time. So warm and so very human and admirable. Tru, brother of the male lead in Book 1 was a character to admire and trust he would get the job done! The “villain” from Book 1 returns in this book, just as vile as in the first book. I’m excited to go on to Book 3 where I am hoping many of the same characters will be back. You will like this book, promise!
I am so pleased to give Book 2 five stars. The plot and the excitement from all the characters was so much better than the first book in the series. This one I couldn’t put down. I thought the heroine in Book 1 was ahead of her time. Callie, in Book 2, became a star in time. So warm and so very human and admirable. Tru, brother of the male lead in Book 1 was a character to admire and trust he would get the job done! The “villain” from Book 1 returns in this book, just as vile as in the first book. I’m excited to go on to Book 3 where I am hoping many of the same characters will be back. You will like this book, promise!
October 3, 2015
Royal blood runs through Callie Grant's veins, except only two more people know that. After her mom passed away, Callie found a safe haven in Hestia's home for women and learned a thing or two for how to take care of herself on the streets of London.
Callie took the role of older sister and worked hard to bring food to the table. The problem is that no matter what she does, her sister always ends up in trouble. Callie has had it and if it weren't because her sister hadn't been kidnapped or wasn't about to be murdered, Callie wouldn't run to her rescue yet again.
Callie is after clues to find her sister when she stumbles upon Lord Truitt. He's a thorn on her side, the same way he is to her. It turns out they're both after the same man who kidnapped her sister, though their reasons are not the same.
Lord Truitt wants to restore his credibility in London and the only way he can do so is by bringing back the man who used him. Teaming up with Callie and pretending to be husband and wife isn't something he accepts lightly but weighing the pros and cons he admits the plan has merit.
What neither expects is to discover the real person behind their mask. Slowly the lines in their pretend game are blurred and soon they end up falling for each other.
This is a great read for fans of Stephanie Laurens. There's mystery, action, sexy time. A little bit of everything for a historical regency romance.
Callie took the role of older sister and worked hard to bring food to the table. The problem is that no matter what she does, her sister always ends up in trouble. Callie has had it and if it weren't because her sister hadn't been kidnapped or wasn't about to be murdered, Callie wouldn't run to her rescue yet again.
Callie is after clues to find her sister when she stumbles upon Lord Truitt. He's a thorn on her side, the same way he is to her. It turns out they're both after the same man who kidnapped her sister, though their reasons are not the same.
Lord Truitt wants to restore his credibility in London and the only way he can do so is by bringing back the man who used him. Teaming up with Callie and pretending to be husband and wife isn't something he accepts lightly but weighing the pros and cons he admits the plan has merit.
What neither expects is to discover the real person behind their mask. Slowly the lines in their pretend game are blurred and soon they end up falling for each other.
This is a great read for fans of Stephanie Laurens. There's mystery, action, sexy time. A little bit of everything for a historical regency romance.
June 4, 2015
REVIEW: THE LEADING LADY BY DEB MARLOWE
My Review
The Leading Lady (Half Moon House Series) by Deb MarloweMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A strong female lead shrouded in secrets and mystery. Callie and Truitt are brought together for a purpose. That purpose takes unexpected twists and turns that land them in sometimes dangerous situations. Through it all they face peril and intrigue with the strength and depth of character common in Deb Marlowe's stories. The Leading Lady by Deb Marlowe is a suspensefully fun and unique spin on the romantic historical fairytale. Received a copy of this story for an honest review. Enjoyably entertaining.(www.goodreads.com/review/list/2555691...)
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Leading-Lady-Ha...
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-l...
Google Play Books: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-...
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebo...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
My Review
The Leading Lady (Half Moon House Series) by Deb MarloweMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A strong female lead shrouded in secrets and mystery. Callie and Truitt are brought together for a purpose. That purpose takes unexpected twists and turns that land them in sometimes dangerous situations. Through it all they face peril and intrigue with the strength and depth of character common in Deb Marlowe's stories. The Leading Lady by Deb Marlowe is a suspensefully fun and unique spin on the romantic historical fairytale. Received a copy of this story for an honest review. Enjoyably entertaining.(www.goodreads.com/review/list/2555691...)
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Leading-Lady-Ha...
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-l...
Google Play Books: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-...
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebo...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
May 28, 2015
DELIGHTFUL, DEB MARLOWE!!!
In yet another installment of the Half Moon series, Deb Marlowe again proves she is at the top of her craft.
Richly built characters, a tight plot, (with a few lovely subplots, and the usual twists and turns that keep you guessing) are typical of this author's books, and this one is not different. A wonderful sub-story is presented as entries from consistently present Hestia Wright's journal...and eventually, the two stories join. The love story is almost secondary to the suspense story - but ends up it's equal.
While happy ever after for the hero and heroine does come, the ending brings us to obvious "please, please, please, give us another book." While neatly tying up the ends, Deb inserts enough new threads to assure us that the story of Hestia Wright and her many friends is not yet finished.
Masterful, My Lady.
In yet another installment of the Half Moon series, Deb Marlowe again proves she is at the top of her craft.
Richly built characters, a tight plot, (with a few lovely subplots, and the usual twists and turns that keep you guessing) are typical of this author's books, and this one is not different. A wonderful sub-story is presented as entries from consistently present Hestia Wright's journal...and eventually, the two stories join. The love story is almost secondary to the suspense story - but ends up it's equal.
While happy ever after for the hero and heroine does come, the ending brings us to obvious "please, please, please, give us another book." While neatly tying up the ends, Deb inserts enough new threads to assure us that the story of Hestia Wright and her many friends is not yet finished.
Masterful, My Lady.
June 8, 2015
All. The. Feels! Love Tru and Callie together, how they opened up to each other. Their passion feels real and so does their journey to love. And in the meantime, we are also treated to a first rate adventure, with twists and turns that are never predictable, plus more insight into Hestia Wright's past. My favorite thing, though, is how I always turn the last page of Deb Marlowe's books with that happy, satisfied glow.
August 21, 2015
This book was wonderful. I enjoy it. Two help give a man back is good name and get her sister out of the situation she is in takes Callie and Truitt into France to run a small pub/inn so they can be close when they can get her sister away from a very bad man that is trying to destroy the English monarchy. I couldn't put this book down and enjoyed it very much. I can't wait to read the rest of the series
January 17, 2019
Such an enjoyable and smoothly flowing read.
The story concerns the disgraced younger son Lord Truitt Russell, caught up in. plot against the crown including a list of London’s prosititutes, masterminded by the evil Marstoke. He is desperate to restore his name and his reputation in society. He agrees to work with the spy Lord Stoneacre, who has been charged by the King’s Privy Council to investigate the Marquess of Marstoke. As a result he and Callie Grant, and illegitimate connection of famous courtesan Hestia Wright, are asked to work together, and pose as husband and wife, and run an inn near to Marstoke house in Brittany. Callie is invested as Marstoke has convinced her half sister to assist him in his plot. The aim is to capture Marstoke and rescue Letty.
The hero and heroine have history as Truitt’s brother is the Duke of Aldmere, who married Callie’s best friend. They tend to bicker and argue with each other, but secretly they are physically attracted to each other.
This was a lovely read, the writing was smooth and delightfully free of grammatical errors, and americanisms that tend to jar in a regency novel set in Europe.
The action was well plotted and exciting, the hero and heroine were capable and the author didn’t spend too much time on them fighting each other. They worked together well at the inn, and grow closer, and eventually become lovers. Slowly they let down their guard with each other.
Marlowe handles the adventure part of the story well, and it held my interest, alongside the developing romance. The conflict between Callie and Truitt is caused by him witholding information from her, that eventually leads to the failure of their plan, and Tru being injured. The resolution is lovely as Tru realises he has to make amends and lets himself be vulnerable.
What I loved is how Tru accepts Callie’s competence, and doesn’t try to wrap her in cotton wool, whilst still being protective and loving towards her. I appreciated the part where he insisted she was an equal part of the denouement at the end, and also how they found a common cause in their life together once they were married.
All in all a really pleasurable and satisfying read.
I received an ARC of the book, in return for an honest review.
The story concerns the disgraced younger son Lord Truitt Russell, caught up in. plot against the crown including a list of London’s prosititutes, masterminded by the evil Marstoke. He is desperate to restore his name and his reputation in society. He agrees to work with the spy Lord Stoneacre, who has been charged by the King’s Privy Council to investigate the Marquess of Marstoke. As a result he and Callie Grant, and illegitimate connection of famous courtesan Hestia Wright, are asked to work together, and pose as husband and wife, and run an inn near to Marstoke house in Brittany. Callie is invested as Marstoke has convinced her half sister to assist him in his plot. The aim is to capture Marstoke and rescue Letty.
The hero and heroine have history as Truitt’s brother is the Duke of Aldmere, who married Callie’s best friend. They tend to bicker and argue with each other, but secretly they are physically attracted to each other.
This was a lovely read, the writing was smooth and delightfully free of grammatical errors, and americanisms that tend to jar in a regency novel set in Europe.
The action was well plotted and exciting, the hero and heroine were capable and the author didn’t spend too much time on them fighting each other. They worked together well at the inn, and grow closer, and eventually become lovers. Slowly they let down their guard with each other.
Marlowe handles the adventure part of the story well, and it held my interest, alongside the developing romance. The conflict between Callie and Truitt is caused by him witholding information from her, that eventually leads to the failure of their plan, and Tru being injured. The resolution is lovely as Tru realises he has to make amends and lets himself be vulnerable.
What I loved is how Tru accepts Callie’s competence, and doesn’t try to wrap her in cotton wool, whilst still being protective and loving towards her. I appreciated the part where he insisted she was an equal part of the denouement at the end, and also how they found a common cause in their life together once they were married.
All in all a really pleasurable and satisfying read.
I received an ARC of the book, in return for an honest review.
July 19, 2020
This is book two in a series about Half Moon House a place where women can go and find help for abusive situations or from a life on the streets. It is ran by a former courtesan. Lady Hestia Wright is a very powerful, wealthy women. With help from other women who all have secrets they help the women to learn and a chance at a better life. Miss Calle Grant and her friend Letty live there.
Calle is always saving Letty from situations she gets into. If you have read the first book you will remember some of the characters who are also in this book. The Evil Lord Marstoke, Lord Stonacre
Lord Truitt Russell, whose brother is The Duke of Aldmere.
This is a fast moving story of how Calle is trying to save her sister, Truitt is trying to reclaim his honor and Stonacre is trying to catch Marstoke. As they all work together for one goal. Both Calle and Tru can't keep the attraction between them from growing into something much more. As they pretend they are husband and wife. There are many twist and turns in this book. The cast of characters is good and there is suspense and lots of steamy romance that fits the story. I did feel like I was missing a lot by not having read the first book. It would have been nice to know just what
is driving Tur to catch Marstoke .
I liked this story till the end. Big Spoiler here this is a Hugh cliffhanger that you will need to read the next book to see what happens. I hate cliffhanger !! Which is why I gave this book only three stars. The story is good enough for four but I want a story to end with the book, if I want to read the next story in a series that is for me to decide.
I received and ARC from netgallery and wish to thank them, I wish they would have said it had a cliffhanger as I would have declined it them and saved by time for a other book.
I give this opinion voluntarily.
Calle is always saving Letty from situations she gets into. If you have read the first book you will remember some of the characters who are also in this book. The Evil Lord Marstoke, Lord Stonacre
Lord Truitt Russell, whose brother is The Duke of Aldmere.
This is a fast moving story of how Calle is trying to save her sister, Truitt is trying to reclaim his honor and Stonacre is trying to catch Marstoke. As they all work together for one goal. Both Calle and Tru can't keep the attraction between them from growing into something much more. As they pretend they are husband and wife. There are many twist and turns in this book. The cast of characters is good and there is suspense and lots of steamy romance that fits the story. I did feel like I was missing a lot by not having read the first book. It would have been nice to know just what
is driving Tur to catch Marstoke .
I liked this story till the end. Big Spoiler here this is a Hugh cliffhanger that you will need to read the next book to see what happens. I hate cliffhanger !! Which is why I gave this book only three stars. The story is good enough for four but I want a story to end with the book, if I want to read the next story in a series that is for me to decide.
I received and ARC from netgallery and wish to thank them, I wish they would have said it had a cliffhanger as I would have declined it them and saved by time for a other book.
I give this opinion voluntarily.
November 9, 2018
Lots of mystery and intrigue in this book. Try and Callie are helping Stoneacre track down the evil Marstoke and save Callie’s sister from him before he can begin his plan against the royal family. Tru and Callie fall in love along the way.
I have not read the first book and I think that was to my detriment in reading this one. I never fully understood what happened to Tru and his desperation to capture Marstoke. He and Callie are known to each other and I believe a lot of that occurs in the first book as well. The ending left a lot to be desired for as much talk as to the plan at the ball - it all went out the window to save Letty and what the plan was and what happened was never really explained. Apparently, there’s a novella to explain that.
The writing is good and the romance is good, but the book is definitely part of a series and I wish it had more of a stand-alone feel to it.
I received a review copy as part of the Regency Review Crew.
I have not read the first book and I think that was to my detriment in reading this one. I never fully understood what happened to Tru and his desperation to capture Marstoke. He and Callie are known to each other and I believe a lot of that occurs in the first book as well. The ending left a lot to be desired for as much talk as to the plan at the ball - it all went out the window to save Letty and what the plan was and what happened was never really explained. Apparently, there’s a novella to explain that.
The writing is good and the romance is good, but the book is definitely part of a series and I wish it had more of a stand-alone feel to it.
I received a review copy as part of the Regency Review Crew.
January 21, 2019
I was on the edge of my seat from the moment Callie questioned the two men. This is not a love at first sight story, more of a loath at first sight that takes you on a whirlwind. Once they got to know each other it was clear they were perfect for each other. As always I love reading Hestia’s diary and getting to know her story more and more. I was holding my breath a couple of times because I didn’t know what Marstroke was going to do next. OMG the ending shocks you so much!
Callie is fiercely independent and won’t hesitate to take down someone if needed. I loved her right away with how she made it clear how she felt and what she wanted. She knew things had to change.
Tru hates that he was tricked in the past and will do anything to end Marstroke. I love how he understood her and didn’t want to try to control her. He saw things that most didn’t.
Copy provided for an honest and voluntary review via NetGalley
Callie is fiercely independent and won’t hesitate to take down someone if needed. I loved her right away with how she made it clear how she felt and what she wanted. She knew things had to change.
Tru hates that he was tricked in the past and will do anything to end Marstroke. I love how he understood her and didn’t want to try to control her. He saw things that most didn’t.
Copy provided for an honest and voluntary review via NetGalley
June 24, 2019
This was such a wonderful and exciting story to read, it's filled with intrigue, suspense, danger and a few twists and turns that will keep you turning the pages! Oh, and of course, there is lots of passion involved:)
Miss Callie Grant and Lord Truitt Russell, who do not see eye to eye, find themselves in a situation of posing as husband and wife who run an inn in France...all an act to try to capture the evil Lord Marstoke who has Callie's half-sister and who ruined Tru's life. I've always loved the enemies to lovers trope and this one is no exception. The story is action packed and I love how Callie is a kick a$$ heroine and Tru is such an honorable hero!
I was given an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Miss Callie Grant and Lord Truitt Russell, who do not see eye to eye, find themselves in a situation of posing as husband and wife who run an inn in France...all an act to try to capture the evil Lord Marstoke who has Callie's half-sister and who ruined Tru's life. I've always loved the enemies to lovers trope and this one is no exception. The story is action packed and I love how Callie is a kick a$$ heroine and Tru is such an honorable hero!
I was given an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 10, 2019
Un romance al estilo más clásico. Es curioso pero los personajes al final han evitado la palabra amor, casi toda la novela por no decir toda. Así no se hace tan empalagosa.
Buenos personajes, un poco típicos como siempre en este tipo de género, pero han destacado por su gran realismo y personalidad. Se hacen querer incluso en sus flaquezas. Como pareja me han parecido que son perfectos, se complementan muy bien.
Como gran punto positivo: no es un libro noño, de esos romances empalagoso hasta el final, sino que hay detrás una historia con sentido. Romance y algo más.
Muy recomendable.
Buenos personajes, un poco típicos como siempre en este tipo de género, pero han destacado por su gran realismo y personalidad. Se hacen querer incluso en sus flaquezas. Como pareja me han parecido que son perfectos, se complementan muy bien.
Como gran punto positivo: no es un libro noño, de esos romances empalagoso hasta el final, sino que hay detrás una historia con sentido. Romance y algo más.
Muy recomendable.
September 18, 2020
The Leading Lady, the second installment of Deb Marlowe’s Half Moon House series, is a lovely tale! It is a continuation of the story from The Love List, yet can be read as a stand alone novel. In the Leading Lady, you learn more about Callie Grant and Lord Truitt Randall, as they pursue the villainous Marstoke for reasons that put them at cross purposes. Forced to work together, will they find common ground? I love the way these characters are written. The banter between them, the way they bring the best out of each other. And as always, we continue to get glimpses into the life of Hestia Wright! I loved the Leading Lady and can’t wait to see what will happen in the next book.
December 4, 2018
A marvellous read!
This novel was definitely emotional and very funny to read. I was very surprised of the background history of Callie and Letty. Also I adored Lord Truitt. He was amazing through out.💖
Plus I never though I could scream out in anger so loud on the street while reading this novel.
Also after reading all of the Half Moon novels in random order it has left me with this response.... I really really REALLY hope the Marquees dies a painful and excruciating death.
Deb Marlowe, my emotions literally went all over the place.
This novel was definitely emotional and very funny to read. I was very surprised of the background history of Callie and Letty. Also I adored Lord Truitt. He was amazing through out.💖
Plus I never though I could scream out in anger so loud on the street while reading this novel.
Also after reading all of the Half Moon novels in random order it has left me with this response.... I really really REALLY hope the Marquees dies a painful and excruciating death.
Deb Marlowe, my emotions literally went all over the place.
February 11, 2019
The Leading Lady by Deb Marlowe is book Two in the Half Moon House Series. This is the story of Callie Grant and Truitt Russell. I haven't yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book. Callie has secrets but her main focus is helping with Hestia's home for women along with saving her sister it seems. When her sister once again is in trouble she goes forward to try to help with leads her to Truitt. Truitt too has his on mission but they both find they are after the same person and turn to work toward it together. Enjoyed their story.
March 27, 2019
3.5/5⭐️
I started this one hoping it wouldn’t matter that it was second in series but did find myself lost in a few instances. The writing was fine. But the series is more of a serial so that it gets frustrating and annoying when they never seem to outwit the villain.🤨 The love story was nice, but at 250 pages, felt a bit rushed with everything else that was going on. However, I might go back to continue this series at another time.
Thanks to #NetGalley for providing the free ARC. The opinions are strictly my own.
I started this one hoping it wouldn’t matter that it was second in series but did find myself lost in a few instances. The writing was fine. But the series is more of a serial so that it gets frustrating and annoying when they never seem to outwit the villain.🤨 The love story was nice, but at 250 pages, felt a bit rushed with everything else that was going on. However, I might go back to continue this series at another time.
Thanks to #NetGalley for providing the free ARC. The opinions are strictly my own.
October 24, 2025
I was disappointed in this book. The plot moved slowly and didn't hold my interest for the first half of the book. Even after the plot for catching the marquess was enacted it only became mildly interesting. Only the attraction between our H & h made it readable.
When I found out this was actually a continuing installment story with several books I decided this was the one and only one I would read. I never even found out why the marquess was doing the things he did. There is nothing in this installment that hints at his reason.
At least I finished it.
When I found out this was actually a continuing installment story with several books I decided this was the one and only one I would read. I never even found out why the marquess was doing the things he did. There is nothing in this installment that hints at his reason.
At least I finished it.
November 7, 2018
Deb Marlowe provides an excellent addition to the Half Moon House series. In addition to being a heartfelt romance there is also the mystery of tracking down a nefarious criminal mastermind and saving the young women he is holding as prisoneres. In all of it, Hestia Wright, the owner of the Half Moon House is working behind the scenes to matchmake two people who seem to hat each other at the beginning.
The story is fast paced and draws the reader in to the fear and pain of the characters.
The story is fast paced and draws the reader in to the fear and pain of the characters.
January 12, 2019
Treason and Romance.
Although one in a series I was able to read this story without having read the previous book. Two individuals who dislike each other have to pretend to be husband and wife in order to obtain their goals. Their close proximity during this subterfuge leads to them changing their opinions of each other. An enemies to lovers romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Although one in a series I was able to read this story without having read the previous book. Two individuals who dislike each other have to pretend to be husband and wife in order to obtain their goals. Their close proximity during this subterfuge leads to them changing their opinions of each other. An enemies to lovers romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 28, 2018
Usually, I love stories with a pretend spouse and was eager to read this one. Maybe because I haven't read the first one in the series or maybe because I have read a whole string of British stories, lately, and am tired of them, but this one wasn't really my cuppa tea and didn't hold my interest as well as I'd have liked, and it took me a long time to get through it.
December 20, 2018
Marstoke is at it again, or still at it. Tru and Callie are teamed to try to find and stop him. They have some unpleasant history, but reluctantly agree to work together. Tru wants restore his honor and his name. Marstoke has Callie’s sister, and she wants her back. Hester wants him caught, his past abuse paid for and his present danger removed. There are a lot of secrets in this one. I love the way Hester’s are revealed slowly as the story unfolds. This one is full of intrigue, action, betrayal, and a lot of danger. Callie and Tru begin to like each other, but not to trust each other. They start working together in opposite directions and at somewhat cross-purposes. This could be a problem for the mission and their budding relationship. Can they find Marstoke? Can Callie convince Hetty to come home with her? Will Tru reclaim his honor and restore his name? These headstrong people and their cohorts will certainly try. The Half Moon house stories have strong characters and interesting plots. The Leading Lady is no exception. I recommend the book and the series.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and volunteered to review it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and volunteered to review it.
May 1, 2019
The manipulator
How do you stop a madman from his plan to embarrass the prince and get close enough to destroy everyone in his path? Undercover brings two people together from different social levels to find a madman, then fall in love. A nice page turner with a lead into the next book.
How do you stop a madman from his plan to embarrass the prince and get close enough to destroy everyone in his path? Undercover brings two people together from different social levels to find a madman, then fall in love. A nice page turner with a lead into the next book.
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