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Dangerous Lords #2
A Spy To Love
John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn, is on an urgent mission to find the killer of his fellow spy. Has the treasonous Frenchman, Count Forney, returned to England to wreak havoc? Or has someone new landed on English shores to stir up rebellion in the Midlands? After visiting the young widow of one of his agents, Strathairn strengthens his resolve never to wed. And most certainly not to Lady Sibella Winborne, with her romantic ideas of love and marriage. Unable to give Sibella up entirely, he has kept her close as a friend. And then weak fool that he is he kissed her...
Lady Sibella Winborne has refused several offers of marriage since her first Season years ago -- when she first set eyes on the handsome Earl of Strathairn. Sibella's many siblings always rush to her aid to discourage an ardent suitor, but not this time. Her elder brother, Chaloner, Marquess of Brandreth, is insisting she marry. Sibella yearns to set up her own household. She is known to be the sensible member of the family. But she doesn't feel at all sensible about Lord Strathairn. If only she could forget that kiss...
Lady Sibella Winborne has refused several offers of marriage since her first Season years ago -- when she first set eyes on the handsome Earl of Strathairn. Sibella's many siblings always rush to her aid to discourage an ardent suitor, but not this time. Her elder brother, Chaloner, Marquess of Brandreth, is insisting she marry. Sibella yearns to set up her own household. She is known to be the sensible member of the family. But she doesn't feel at all sensible about Lord Strathairn. If only she could forget that kiss...
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2013
243 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Maggi Andersen
85 books327 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author of Regency romance, and winner of the RONE award, Maggi Andersen wrote her first book for publication after gaining a BA in English and an MA in Creative Writing. She lives on a farm in the beautiful Yarra Valley in Victoria, Australia. She wrote her first adventure story at 8 years old. Her novels are mostly adventure stories, but also sensual romances. Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen inspired her Regencies and Victoria Holt, her Gothic Victorian mysteries She also writes contemporary romantic suspense and young adult novels.
Maggi supports the RSPCA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals) and animals often feature in her books.
Maggi supports the RSPCA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to animals) and animals often feature in her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 17, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book in Maggi Andersen’s The Spies of Mayfair series with its engaging story, appealing characters and delightful romance. There is also mystery, drama and intrigue.
John Haldane, Earl of Straithairn:
Somehow, the surge of adrenaline and sense of living on the edge banished the anguish he carried. And nothing else had thus far come close.
John is a man of action rather than words and, after returning from the Napoleonic Wars, he can’t contemplate hours of debating in the House of Lords. So he inhabits the dark and dangerous world of spying in an attempt to uncover Napoleonic sympathisers threatening to destabilise the British Government. The intelligence work has also given him a purpose in life that he found missing after his return from the war. It also helps keep at bay the terrible wartime memories that continue to haunt his dreams.
John and Sibella have shared a close friendship but his feelings have deepened beyond friendship. But he knows that, in his line of work, death could be lurking just around the corner and he is determined to remain single. His resolve is further strengthened when a close colleague is murdered leaving behind a wife and child. He could never subject a wife to such pain and so he keeps his feelings in check.
Lady Sibella Winborne
No wonder her mother was giving any likely candidate for her hand a push. Unfortunately, Mama didn’t push; she shoved.
Whilst her mother has been occupied with bringing out the last of Sibella’s three sisters and enjoying her grandchildren, Sibella has managed to avoid several suitors over the years since her own come out. However, at the age of twenty six, she is in danger of being left on the shelf and her mother is now pressurising her to marry.
John Haldane, a family friend, is the only man she has ever desired but he has a strong aversion to marriage. Believing John will never be hers and longing for a home of her own and a family, she may be willing to settle for her brother’s choice of suitor, the polite and well-mannered Lord Coombe.
Sibella and John’s story has all the elements I look for in a romance:
A protective, caring hero:
He fought the strong pull of attraction; he could not bend. His life was too dangerous; he would never risk Sibella. She was far too precious.
A strong-willed, intelligent heroine:
But now, after that kiss! She’d find a way to make him face the truth. They were after all, perfectly suited.
Delicious sexual tension:
With a swift movement, he cradled her face in his hands; his lips, firm but gentle, covered hers, stifling her gasp of surprise. Coherent thought slipped away as his arm encircled her waist and pulled her hard against him. His hold tightened and the kiss deepened, teasing her lips and stealing her breath..
A few stumbling blocks along the way:
“I don’t enjoy having to say this to you John, but it befalls me as head of the family. Sib has a love of home and hearth. She looks for a husband who will sit by the fire with her at night. That isn’t you, is it?”
“She deserves the best, and no, it isn’t me, Chaloner.”
Drama:
And somewhere, a ruthless murderer lurked, well-armed and with some evil design to bring chaos to England.
Of course, this is a romance, so assuredly there will be a Happy Ever After…
Moments later, Straithairn slipped the gold band on her finger. He exhaledon a long sigh of contentment.
She was his.
Once again, Ms Andersen has woven true historical events into the story, creating a real sense of the era with its political and social unrest.
A charming romance and a touch of intrigue combine to make Taming a Gentleman Spy a wonderfully entertaining story.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
The Spies of Mayfair series (click on the book cover for more details):
I would like to thank the author, Maggi Andersen, for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
John Haldane, Earl of Straithairn:
Somehow, the surge of adrenaline and sense of living on the edge banished the anguish he carried. And nothing else had thus far come close.
John is a man of action rather than words and, after returning from the Napoleonic Wars, he can’t contemplate hours of debating in the House of Lords. So he inhabits the dark and dangerous world of spying in an attempt to uncover Napoleonic sympathisers threatening to destabilise the British Government. The intelligence work has also given him a purpose in life that he found missing after his return from the war. It also helps keep at bay the terrible wartime memories that continue to haunt his dreams.
John and Sibella have shared a close friendship but his feelings have deepened beyond friendship. But he knows that, in his line of work, death could be lurking just around the corner and he is determined to remain single. His resolve is further strengthened when a close colleague is murdered leaving behind a wife and child. He could never subject a wife to such pain and so he keeps his feelings in check.
Lady Sibella Winborne
No wonder her mother was giving any likely candidate for her hand a push. Unfortunately, Mama didn’t push; she shoved.
Whilst her mother has been occupied with bringing out the last of Sibella’s three sisters and enjoying her grandchildren, Sibella has managed to avoid several suitors over the years since her own come out. However, at the age of twenty six, she is in danger of being left on the shelf and her mother is now pressurising her to marry.
John Haldane, a family friend, is the only man she has ever desired but he has a strong aversion to marriage. Believing John will never be hers and longing for a home of her own and a family, she may be willing to settle for her brother’s choice of suitor, the polite and well-mannered Lord Coombe.
Sibella and John’s story has all the elements I look for in a romance:
A protective, caring hero:
He fought the strong pull of attraction; he could not bend. His life was too dangerous; he would never risk Sibella. She was far too precious.
A strong-willed, intelligent heroine:
But now, after that kiss! She’d find a way to make him face the truth. They were after all, perfectly suited.
Delicious sexual tension:
With a swift movement, he cradled her face in his hands; his lips, firm but gentle, covered hers, stifling her gasp of surprise. Coherent thought slipped away as his arm encircled her waist and pulled her hard against him. His hold tightened and the kiss deepened, teasing her lips and stealing her breath..
A few stumbling blocks along the way:
“I don’t enjoy having to say this to you John, but it befalls me as head of the family. Sib has a love of home and hearth. She looks for a husband who will sit by the fire with her at night. That isn’t you, is it?”
“She deserves the best, and no, it isn’t me, Chaloner.”
Drama:
And somewhere, a ruthless murderer lurked, well-armed and with some evil design to bring chaos to England.
Of course, this is a romance, so assuredly there will be a Happy Ever After…
Moments later, Straithairn slipped the gold band on her finger. He exhaledon a long sigh of contentment.
She was his.
Once again, Ms Andersen has woven true historical events into the story, creating a real sense of the era with its political and social unrest.
A charming romance and a touch of intrigue combine to make Taming a Gentleman Spy a wonderfully entertaining story.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
The Spies of Mayfair series (click on the book cover for more details):
I would like to thank the author, Maggi Andersen, for sending me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
July 23, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
I just adore Maggi Anderson’s writing , she has a wonderful way with words ,that make her books a must with me .
This is an emotional adventure, with a little betrayal , murder and Mayhem thrown in , and a massive dollop of love and romance for good measure .
Sounds like the perfect recipe to me .
This is the second in the series and is Sibella and John’s story .
💋💋
I just adore Maggi Anderson’s writing , she has a wonderful way with words ,that make her books a must with me .
This is an emotional adventure, with a little betrayal , murder and Mayhem thrown in , and a massive dollop of love and romance for good measure .
Sounds like the perfect recipe to me .
This is the second in the series and is Sibella and John’s story .
February 15, 2014
3.5/5.0
“Taming a Gentleman Spy” is a tale of romance and mystery.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
“Taming a Gentleman Spy” is a tale of romance and mystery.
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 18, 2013
It’s no secret that I’ve been on a historical romance bender – and this book hit all the happy places for me: great characters, a touch of intrigue, family, the royals and even a villainous suitor!
A late regency, the story focuses on Sibella: 26 years old and finally feeling the familial pressure to make a choice and marry. As one of several children, she has been the auntie and allowed, within reason, to lead her own life. A long-held crush on a family friend, now returned from the wars has her dreaming of a life with him, and a marriage for love, not duty.
John, Earl of Straithairn has been a family friend for years: he ventured out to war, and while not active military, he is still working for the crown to protect England from the Napoleonic sympathizers who would seek to overthrow the government. Although he is attracted to Sibella, his recent brush with death and loss of his working partner who left a wife and young child behind, has him reluctant to marry.
The connection between the two is electric: Sibella is headstrong and intelligent but rarely foolish, her enjoyment in John’s company is apparent, although she often misconstrues his reluctance as a lack of desire. John is desperately trying to convince her that she must make a more ‘appropriate’ match, although he can’t seem to stay away.
I adored the emotion displayed in this story: while John often appears to be a bit of a cold-fish, his concern for those around him, and willingness to extend himself to set Sib’s brother on the right track, as well as investigate the man she agreed to marry shows his involvement with her and the family, even as he seeks to ignore it. Throughout the story, the build to an explosive conclusion is slowly developing, and not unsurprisingly all the interlocking elements of John’s life seem to converge in one afternoon in London.
With clever insertions of secondary characters and several moment s of intrigue as well as clever integration of history, this story manages to engage and delight as you continue to turn pages, cheering and jeering connections and hoping for that happily ever after.
I received an eArc copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
A late regency, the story focuses on Sibella: 26 years old and finally feeling the familial pressure to make a choice and marry. As one of several children, she has been the auntie and allowed, within reason, to lead her own life. A long-held crush on a family friend, now returned from the wars has her dreaming of a life with him, and a marriage for love, not duty.
John, Earl of Straithairn has been a family friend for years: he ventured out to war, and while not active military, he is still working for the crown to protect England from the Napoleonic sympathizers who would seek to overthrow the government. Although he is attracted to Sibella, his recent brush with death and loss of his working partner who left a wife and young child behind, has him reluctant to marry.
The connection between the two is electric: Sibella is headstrong and intelligent but rarely foolish, her enjoyment in John’s company is apparent, although she often misconstrues his reluctance as a lack of desire. John is desperately trying to convince her that she must make a more ‘appropriate’ match, although he can’t seem to stay away.
I adored the emotion displayed in this story: while John often appears to be a bit of a cold-fish, his concern for those around him, and willingness to extend himself to set Sib’s brother on the right track, as well as investigate the man she agreed to marry shows his involvement with her and the family, even as he seeks to ignore it. Throughout the story, the build to an explosive conclusion is slowly developing, and not unsurprisingly all the interlocking elements of John’s life seem to converge in one afternoon in London.
With clever insertions of secondary characters and several moment s of intrigue as well as clever integration of history, this story manages to engage and delight as you continue to turn pages, cheering and jeering connections and hoping for that happily ever after.
I received an eArc copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
November 16, 2015
A fan of Maggi Andersen’s novels, I was not disappointed in her latest addition to her ‘Mayfair Spy’ series. Her heroines are always of their time, in that being dominated by male relatives, husbands and sometimes even suitors, they have to find a way round Regency conventions to live the life they want. Her heroine Sibella, like the author’s other ladies, is no weak and pliable female, but still her life is not completely her own as she has familial responsibilities and society to consider.
Given the freedom of being left her own devices, Sibella would choose to marry her long time love, John, Earl of Straithairn, a family friend returned from the wars.
John has also been doing his duty, to the crown, working as a spy to root out Napoleonic sympathizers who threaten the English government. John has lost a close friend to the cause, leaving a widow and child, so he feels he should deny himself domestic life in case history repeats itself.
He underestimates Sibella, however. Feisty and intelligent, she would take John on any terms, the chemistry between them is unmistakable. There is a degree of misunderstanding between the two as John mistakes her pride for disinterest, and tries to convince Sibella she would be better off without him – which is guaranteed to make her more determined – naturally, but how does a respectable Regency lady get the man she wants and still remain acceptable to society?
It is the misunderstandings and flashes of mutual attraction that keep the reader glued to this story to discover not if, but how Sibella convince John she would be a perfect wife and John put aside his misguided resolve to spare her unnecessary grief. Then there is Lord Coombes, Sibella’s unwelcome suitor to complicate things and add a dash of menace.
Miss Andersen is a master at portraying the complicated emotions of an age where married love was not expected, or even sought, where even her character’s respective families come to recognize Sibella and John deserve a chance at happiness. A true romance in every line – lovely.
Given the freedom of being left her own devices, Sibella would choose to marry her long time love, John, Earl of Straithairn, a family friend returned from the wars.
John has also been doing his duty, to the crown, working as a spy to root out Napoleonic sympathizers who threaten the English government. John has lost a close friend to the cause, leaving a widow and child, so he feels he should deny himself domestic life in case history repeats itself.
He underestimates Sibella, however. Feisty and intelligent, she would take John on any terms, the chemistry between them is unmistakable. There is a degree of misunderstanding between the two as John mistakes her pride for disinterest, and tries to convince Sibella she would be better off without him – which is guaranteed to make her more determined – naturally, but how does a respectable Regency lady get the man she wants and still remain acceptable to society?
It is the misunderstandings and flashes of mutual attraction that keep the reader glued to this story to discover not if, but how Sibella convince John she would be a perfect wife and John put aside his misguided resolve to spare her unnecessary grief. Then there is Lord Coombes, Sibella’s unwelcome suitor to complicate things and add a dash of menace.
Miss Andersen is a master at portraying the complicated emotions of an age where married love was not expected, or even sought, where even her character’s respective families come to recognize Sibella and John deserve a chance at happiness. A true romance in every line – lovely.
August 27, 2016
Maggi Andersen gives her readers a wonderfully charming Regency romance in her latest novel, Taming a Gentleman Spy, the latest addition to the Mayfair Spy series. Maggi Anderson is a master of portraying the complicated emotions of the Regency era and the societal confines on women. In love and life, Regency women must be innovative in order to circumvent the male domination of their lives and live the life they want and the love they deserve.
Taming a Gentleman Spy's Sibella is one such woman, swearing off marriage for independence but still bound by family and societal responsibilities. There is one man though who has captured her heart; John, Earl of Straithairn. John, a longtime family friend of Sibella's, is our Gentleman Spy, but Sibella does not find him an eager suitor. John has returned from war shunning the desire for a family after experiencing the devastation and loss of war.
There is no doubt that the chemistry between Sibella and John is electric and no doubt he completely returns her feelings, but he denies his them and does his best to dissuade her interest in him. So then, how is a gentile Regency woman go about getting the man she wants? Sibella struggles to make a marriage of love and not for duty. She is feisty and intelligent, but will this be enough?
Maggi Andersen is masterly skillful in describing emotion and in so doing takes her reader on a journey of love and life. Taming a Gentleman Spy is wonderfully integrated in the history of the Regency period, full of rich and complex characters, romance and a touch of intrigue combine to create a wonderfully engaging page turner leaving me wondering where is my gentleman spy anyway?
Taming a Gentleman Spy's Sibella is one such woman, swearing off marriage for independence but still bound by family and societal responsibilities. There is one man though who has captured her heart; John, Earl of Straithairn. John, a longtime family friend of Sibella's, is our Gentleman Spy, but Sibella does not find him an eager suitor. John has returned from war shunning the desire for a family after experiencing the devastation and loss of war.
There is no doubt that the chemistry between Sibella and John is electric and no doubt he completely returns her feelings, but he denies his them and does his best to dissuade her interest in him. So then, how is a gentile Regency woman go about getting the man she wants? Sibella struggles to make a marriage of love and not for duty. She is feisty and intelligent, but will this be enough?
Maggi Andersen is masterly skillful in describing emotion and in so doing takes her reader on a journey of love and life. Taming a Gentleman Spy is wonderfully integrated in the history of the Regency period, full of rich and complex characters, romance and a touch of intrigue combine to create a wonderfully engaging page turner leaving me wondering where is my gentleman spy anyway?
October 17, 2014
Originally published at Bunny's Review
This book started off slow for me. I had to push myself to read until around 30%. After that it was easy to read and I did not want to stop.
Not fond of the book cover. Just does not seem to fit my picture of the characters or anything in the book.
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it. I am glad I was not let down like some series.
I look forward to reading additional books by Maggi Andersen.
Thanks for an enjoyable read
The bunnies and I give this book
carrots.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. All views are my own and do not reflect those of the author, my clients or tour companies I work with. This is not a paid review. To form your own opinion please support the author and acquire your own legal copy of the book.
This book started off slow for me. I had to push myself to read until around 30%. After that it was easy to read and I did not want to stop.
Not fond of the book cover. Just does not seem to fit my picture of the characters or anything in the book.
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it. I am glad I was not let down like some series.
I look forward to reading additional books by Maggi Andersen.
Thanks for an enjoyable read
The bunnies and I give this book
carrots.I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. All views are my own and do not reflect those of the author, my clients or tour companies I work with. This is not a paid review. To form your own opinion please support the author and acquire your own legal copy of the book.
December 31, 2014
The characters' behaviours and twists are hardly believable. The heroes are nice people and likeable. But there is no real reason they can't be together, or rather, the only reason is far-fetched. The villains are caricatural.
Historical events and laws are mentioned, discussed but not explained or developed and as a result the reader doesn't feel involved or interested.
This is the second novels by this writer I don't enjoy, so I don't think I'll read another.
Historical events and laws are mentioned, discussed but not explained or developed and as a result the reader doesn't feel involved or interested.
This is the second novels by this writer I don't enjoy, so I don't think I'll read another.
April 22, 2014
This is a great story suspense a sensual romance and a great setting, this is the 2nd book in this series we met the hero John in the first one and I fell for him then he is a spy determined to get what he is after but Lady Sibella he must not have not in his line of work but can he stop himself when Lady Sibella wants him just as much. I really enjoyed this one it kept me turning the pages and up late.
May 11, 2019
This was very similar in tone and substance to quite a few historical plots/characters that have read over the past few years.
Liked watching how it all played out but did not necessarily love it from start to finish.
Liked watching how it all played out but did not necessarily love it from start to finish.
December 14, 2013
Author Maggie Andersen Does It Again—A Fabulous Escape into Historical Romance!
April 2, 2014
Review by: Anita
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
August 5, 2018
This exciting novel features everything you would want in a good historical romance. We experience suspense, intrigue, action, adventure, and run the gamut of intense emotions in this wonderful romance novel. John, the Earl of Stathairn, and Lady Sibella, a twenty six year old young woman, Lady Sibella, who has harbored the secret hope that one day, now that he was back from the war, would propose. Sibella is unfortunately beginning to be pushed by her family to marry, while John, though he is entranced by her, is annoyingly stubborn conserving his fear that If he marries Sibella, she might get caught up in his dangerous search for a French Spy. I couldn’t help but remain fascinated in the workings of this original story line, even though there were plenty of times I wanted to knock a John, Strathairn, over the head to knock some sense into him, but I kept reading. This is an excellent continuation of book one, involving some of the minor characters in that tale. Maggi Andersen writes stories you won’t want to put down until the mystery is solved. Easy to recommend this whole series. Great read.
August 18, 2018
John Haldane, Earl of Stathairn, returns from war disturbed by nightmares, but he continues to spy for the Crown. Stathairn meet Lady Sibella Winborne before he went off to war with the intention of perusing her when he returned, but the war changed him and his mind. Lady Sibella family is pushing her to marry, but when she see Stathairn has returned from the war she harbors a strong affection for him and she realizes he makes every other man seem ordinary. John try to continue to stay good friends with Sibella, but love has a way of disrupting the best of plans. Statherian’s friend is murdered so now there’s a murderer on the loose too. I loved this story of a love not forgotten, and can no longer be denied in this intriguing romance with a bit of a twist as John and Sibella are thrown together finding a love they both deserve, but thought would never happen to solving the mystery and finding the killer before it’s too late. This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
July 22, 2025
Can Sibella and John find their way to love or will others prevent it?
John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn is till on the hunt for the French spy we came across in the first book. This story opens with him at the London docks discovering the body of a colleague and an eagle pin which is the symbol of the network responsible for some of the events in that story.
John believes that the man thought to be dead is still alive and planning something. He has problems persuading his superiors.
Sibella Wimborne has refused several marriage proposals since she first saw John, but he believes his job is too dangerous for him to marry and persuades her to look elsewhere. The man she selects proves to be less than he seems as far as his behaviour is concerned. His first wife died in suspicious circumstances.
There are numerous plots and dangerous incidents which must be uncovered and survived before John and Sibella can find their deserved HEA.
This was another enjoyable book in this series.
John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn is till on the hunt for the French spy we came across in the first book. This story opens with him at the London docks discovering the body of a colleague and an eagle pin which is the symbol of the network responsible for some of the events in that story.
John believes that the man thought to be dead is still alive and planning something. He has problems persuading his superiors.
Sibella Wimborne has refused several marriage proposals since she first saw John, but he believes his job is too dangerous for him to marry and persuades her to look elsewhere. The man she selects proves to be less than he seems as far as his behaviour is concerned. His first wife died in suspicious circumstances.
There are numerous plots and dangerous incidents which must be uncovered and survived before John and Sibella can find their deserved HEA.
This was another enjoyable book in this series.
July 29, 2018
Entertaining
I enjoyed this book, a second in a series, about Lord John and Lady Sibella. The two have an attraction to each other that is strong enough to be noticed by others but John refuses to ask her to marry him. He is a spy for the English government. But Sibella’s family doesn’t want her to end up alone so she is pushed into an engagement with another Lord. Many people of the ton married people who they didn’t love, but it’s a bit more complicated than all that, and Sibella is determined to discover why.
The plot has a great deal of intrigue, with more than one mystery to solve. The characters were interesting and all throughout I was trying to guess the outcome, but it didn’t become apparent until its conclusion. Plenty of longing between the H and h, and all in all an entertaining read.
I am looking forward to the next in this series too!
I enjoyed this book, a second in a series, about Lord John and Lady Sibella. The two have an attraction to each other that is strong enough to be noticed by others but John refuses to ask her to marry him. He is a spy for the English government. But Sibella’s family doesn’t want her to end up alone so she is pushed into an engagement with another Lord. Many people of the ton married people who they didn’t love, but it’s a bit more complicated than all that, and Sibella is determined to discover why.
The plot has a great deal of intrigue, with more than one mystery to solve. The characters were interesting and all throughout I was trying to guess the outcome, but it didn’t become apparent until its conclusion. Plenty of longing between the H and h, and all in all an entertaining read.
I am looking forward to the next in this series too!
February 18, 2019
I felt annoyed that John didn’t recognise that he was in love with Sibella until she got engaged to another man. She fell for him when she met him in her first Season and never wavered in her feelings, turning other suitors away but now six-and-twenty (and wanting a family of her own) bows to pressure from her family to marry another man. I found it difficult to warm to John and there were a few typos, but overall I enjoyed the story and it was nice to read a Regency story where character names, both Christian and Surname, seemed in keeping with the period (and breakfast foods were appropriate)!
Recommended read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from eBookDiscovery. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from eBookDiscovery. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 7, 2023
This is one wild ride! It does not look like a HEA is even possible!
Sibella has loved John from afar until her family including her brother and mother think he’s never going to marry as he dedicated to the Crown and it’s service!
Sibella let family pressure her into an engagement that is almost fatal.
Then there are others who killed John’s partner and also want to harm the Prince Regent!
Sibella had no idea the dangers John faced and when she realized she made a huge mistake she tried to fix it and makes matters worse!
What happens when you fall in love but are not free to love because of duty!
When duty almost gets you killed well… there are choices to be made.. Bravo! Couldn’t put it down!
Sibella has loved John from afar until her family including her brother and mother think he’s never going to marry as he dedicated to the Crown and it’s service!
Sibella let family pressure her into an engagement that is almost fatal.
Then there are others who killed John’s partner and also want to harm the Prince Regent!
Sibella had no idea the dangers John faced and when she realized she made a huge mistake she tried to fix it and makes matters worse!
What happens when you fall in love but are not free to love because of duty!
When duty almost gets you killed well… there are choices to be made.. Bravo! Couldn’t put it down!
July 27, 2018
What a interesting look into the life of a English spy that also happens to be the Earl of Strathairn. When his partner is murdered on an assignment, he feel that he cannot marry; with the treasonous Frenchman Count Forney returning and causing havoc on the government. And what is a beautiful lady to do, when the Earl she loves refuses to return her love and settle down with her. Even her family believes that no good can come from a marriage to a spy and force her into an engagement with another man. Mystery, spy mission and love seem to blend it way into this interesting book.
I enjoyed reading this and found I could not put it down until the end.
I enjoyed reading this and found I could not put it down until the end.
October 25, 2018
Ero molto sospettosa: il titolo non prometteva niente di buono, e poi anche questo nome 'Maggi', faceva pensare a un'adolescente ai primi romanzi... ed era il caso di fidarsi delle recensioni?
Beh, mi sono dovuta ricredere. Titolo e copertina son risultati del tutto fuorvianti, messi lì per attrarre la lettrice medio-bassa, perché la storia è discreta, con un pizzico di avventura, l'ambientazione post-napoleonica ricostruita con un minimo di attenzione storica, e i personaggi accettabili. Naturalmente non si tratta di grande letteratura, e le tre stelle sono forse un po' abbondanti, ma mi servono come promemoria sull'autrice, che potrei leggere ancora.
Beh, mi sono dovuta ricredere. Titolo e copertina son risultati del tutto fuorvianti, messi lì per attrarre la lettrice medio-bassa, perché la storia è discreta, con un pizzico di avventura, l'ambientazione post-napoleonica ricostruita con un minimo di attenzione storica, e i personaggi accettabili. Naturalmente non si tratta di grande letteratura, e le tre stelle sono forse un po' abbondanti, ma mi servono come promemoria sull'autrice, che potrei leggere ancora.
March 28, 2025
A good read
I really enjoyed reading this book about John and Sibella, how they had met to how they fell in love. He was a spy and was trying to find out who had killed his partner and shot at him and he didn't want to marry and leave his wife a widow. She was engaged to a man she didn't feel comfortable around so she decided to do some checking on him and made him mad enough that he tried take advantage of her. She got even with him and he will never bother another woman again. She also helped shoot the villain who wanted John dead on her sisters wedding day. It was a great HEA. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤
I really enjoyed reading this book about John and Sibella, how they had met to how they fell in love. He was a spy and was trying to find out who had killed his partner and shot at him and he didn't want to marry and leave his wife a widow. She was engaged to a man she didn't feel comfortable around so she decided to do some checking on him and made him mad enough that he tried take advantage of her. She got even with him and he will never bother another woman again. She also helped shoot the villain who wanted John dead on her sisters wedding day. It was a great HEA. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤
January 12, 2023
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾⭐️⭐️⭐️
Very good follow up book in the series. I love the way the author intertwines the characters between books. The continuing thrill and ultimate appearance of some of the characters from from the prior book very nicely concluded the story where it left you hanging from the first. There were hints of the next story but just enough to make you curious….
Angst - 5
Romance - 4
Heat - 2 (not too much nor too little). Did not detract from the story.
Overall really good story and the main character definitely lived up to the subtitle - “Dangerous Lord”
Very good follow up book in the series. I love the way the author intertwines the characters between books. The continuing thrill and ultimate appearance of some of the characters from from the prior book very nicely concluded the story where it left you hanging from the first. There were hints of the next story but just enough to make you curious….
Angst - 5
Romance - 4
Heat - 2 (not too much nor too little). Did not detract from the story.
Overall really good story and the main character definitely lived up to the subtitle - “Dangerous Lord”
August 13, 2018
Sibella Winborne is looking for love. She knows her brother is trying to find a husband for her, much to her chagrin. John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn, is in love with her, but he does not feel he is good marriage material. He is in the Royal Guard and his life is forfeit if necessary. They are involved in many scrapes and situations in which they find adventure and love. I really enjoyed this book. Ms Anderson has written another great book!!
November 26, 2018
Lady Sibella has been in love with John for years. He is the reason she has not married. When John makes it known to her that he will not marry her. She accepts another’s proposal. As she spends a little time with her intended she feels something is not right and decides to investigate him herself. While she is dong that John is trying to find his partners killer and who also shot his current partner. A great read with intrigue, damsel in distress and and old nemesis comes back from the dead!
August 5, 2018
Forever Love
Lady Sibella Winborne has loved John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn for years. He loves her but because of his job as a spy he doesn’t want to put her life in danger. Events start happening that put their lives in danger.
Lady Sibella Winborne has loved John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn for years. He loves her but because of his job as a spy he doesn’t want to put her life in danger. Events start happening that put their lives in danger.
August 10, 2018
Great Read
Happily ever after with villians, and lovers. Certainly great stories and characters. This is the second book I have read from this author and will be looking forward to more in the future! Recommend these books. 📚
Happily ever after with villians, and lovers. Certainly great stories and characters. This is the second book I have read from this author and will be looking forward to more in the future! Recommend these books. 📚
September 3, 2018
Wonderful
I love this book as I have every book that I have read by Maggie Andersen. One of the very best author's of historical romance. You won't find any milksops or namby pamby females in her books, thank heavens!
I love this book as I have every book that I have read by Maggie Andersen. One of the very best author's of historical romance. You won't find any milksops or namby pamby females in her books, thank heavens!
July 27, 2019
What a wonderful love story! This continues the first book brilliantly and is full of intrigue. The subplot including Coombe is also interesting and horrifying at the same time. I sighed with relief over John and Sibella’s story!
February 27, 2014
I loved this book! The characters come on stage with wounds, bruises, laughter and longings that are slow-roasted over the fire of daily life and extraordinary events that were entirely believable. No one is a modern super-character dressed in Regency clothing, thank you Ms. Andersen! The hero and heroine are consistent with the era that produced them and are surrounded by family, friends, obligations, and anxieties that have produced their unique story.
John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn and Lady Sibella Winborne have known each other for years but not, for a refreshing change, as an excuse to rush the romance. Sibella has observed changes the battlefields of Spain left on Strathairn and resolved to enjoy nothing more than his friendship ... until he kissed her. Strathairn admits he cares for her but insists nothing will come of his feelings. He's a spy and though the war is over, there is still a need for his unique talents. So, her family discourages him from courting Sibella while warning her against hoping for Strathairn to change professions. Being cruel to be kind, he advises her to dismiss the thoughts his kiss stirred. Everyone is sensible and doing just as they ought, which is not producing the happy result expected.
Of course, romance readers will not be surprised by this.
Bemused, courted by a gentleman her family approves of, she first tries to convince Strathairn they're perfectly suited. However, she is no femme fatale and he is nobly determined. Sibella reluctantly accepts his decision and convinces herself it's better to accept the offer she has rather than waiting for an offer that will never come. Strathairn applauds her decision, even goes so far as to encourage Sibella to put aside doubts about her fiancé.
This story could have devolved in to a farce, or worse, angst ridden depression. Instead, it stayed the course; the characters developed well-enough to carry the tale.
Strathairn had valid reasons to deny himself wife and hearth. Besides facing his partner's widow, he had firsthand experience of how loved ones could be used as sources of information and pawns of revenge. Suffering from survivor's guilt, his rest was seldom undisturbed. He was haunted by the loss of comrades that received no recognition for their sacrifice, just as he has and will not. Strathairn was not able to be anyone's perfect anything while performing perfectly for his King and Country. I admired his recognition of what was inevitable even as I wanted to whisper in his ear, maybe you'll be one of the lucky ones. Wisely, he ignored me, demonstrating his depth of care for Sibella that went beyond what he wanted for the moment to what he wanted for her. His reasoning sold him as both an agent of the crown and a genuine hero. Further, the fact his love for Sibellla was only a part of the motivation to confront both his past and future instead of using her as a magik wand endeared him (and the author) to me. That he allowed Sibella time to heal, just as she had given him that same gift, made me want to sing hallelujah!
Likewise, Sibella was a woman confronting her twenty-sixth year. Considering the life expectancy of the time, she wasn't out of line feeling pressured to fish or cut bait, and yet, she hesitated because her heart insisted her desires mattered. She wanted not only a husband, but a mate - a partner, children and a family that reflected all she knew and hoped to be. Her love for her family that was so earnestly reciprocated, the way she made a place for herself while maintaining her own identity in a large family was a precious depiction of a (real) Regency woman. I was proud of her for giving Strathairn more than a couple chances to realize how excellently they would row together. I equally understood when she let those dreams go; there was only so much a woman could do - without jumping the shark. Her conflict over her doubts regarding the menace - uh fiancé were believable precisely because she knew settling for the image of her dreams would never be as wonderful as having them. Her fears that her family would dismiss her doubts wasn't a trite misunderstanding or villainy on the part of her family, it made sense in context of the situation and mores of the time.
Best of all, the secondary characters were wonderful, in their own right, in this story, as they stood. They didn't overwhelm the hero or heroine but they weren't passive, two-dimensional cut outs either. I especially adore when a mother is depicted as a genuinely caring person, foibles and all. The pacing allowed time for the characters to evolve, for the romance to mature, and the need for healing to be more than a hand wave. In the end, you have no doubt this couple will ever settle for the image of romance.
My only complaint is the book cover that I didn't see until after I wrote this review. I know sex sells, but for this book it's misleading as far as the contents within. Thank goodness for e-readers where the only thing exposed is the Scooby Doo band-aid on the scratched surface. Reviewed for Romance Reviews Magazine - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
John Haldane, Earl of Strathairn and Lady Sibella Winborne have known each other for years but not, for a refreshing change, as an excuse to rush the romance. Sibella has observed changes the battlefields of Spain left on Strathairn and resolved to enjoy nothing more than his friendship ... until he kissed her. Strathairn admits he cares for her but insists nothing will come of his feelings. He's a spy and though the war is over, there is still a need for his unique talents. So, her family discourages him from courting Sibella while warning her against hoping for Strathairn to change professions. Being cruel to be kind, he advises her to dismiss the thoughts his kiss stirred. Everyone is sensible and doing just as they ought, which is not producing the happy result expected.
Of course, romance readers will not be surprised by this.
Bemused, courted by a gentleman her family approves of, she first tries to convince Strathairn they're perfectly suited. However, she is no femme fatale and he is nobly determined. Sibella reluctantly accepts his decision and convinces herself it's better to accept the offer she has rather than waiting for an offer that will never come. Strathairn applauds her decision, even goes so far as to encourage Sibella to put aside doubts about her fiancé.
This story could have devolved in to a farce, or worse, angst ridden depression. Instead, it stayed the course; the characters developed well-enough to carry the tale.
Strathairn had valid reasons to deny himself wife and hearth. Besides facing his partner's widow, he had firsthand experience of how loved ones could be used as sources of information and pawns of revenge. Suffering from survivor's guilt, his rest was seldom undisturbed. He was haunted by the loss of comrades that received no recognition for their sacrifice, just as he has and will not. Strathairn was not able to be anyone's perfect anything while performing perfectly for his King and Country. I admired his recognition of what was inevitable even as I wanted to whisper in his ear, maybe you'll be one of the lucky ones. Wisely, he ignored me, demonstrating his depth of care for Sibella that went beyond what he wanted for the moment to what he wanted for her. His reasoning sold him as both an agent of the crown and a genuine hero. Further, the fact his love for Sibellla was only a part of the motivation to confront both his past and future instead of using her as a magik wand endeared him (and the author) to me. That he allowed Sibella time to heal, just as she had given him that same gift, made me want to sing hallelujah!
Likewise, Sibella was a woman confronting her twenty-sixth year. Considering the life expectancy of the time, she wasn't out of line feeling pressured to fish or cut bait, and yet, she hesitated because her heart insisted her desires mattered. She wanted not only a husband, but a mate - a partner, children and a family that reflected all she knew and hoped to be. Her love for her family that was so earnestly reciprocated, the way she made a place for herself while maintaining her own identity in a large family was a precious depiction of a (real) Regency woman. I was proud of her for giving Strathairn more than a couple chances to realize how excellently they would row together. I equally understood when she let those dreams go; there was only so much a woman could do - without jumping the shark. Her conflict over her doubts regarding the menace - uh fiancé were believable precisely because she knew settling for the image of her dreams would never be as wonderful as having them. Her fears that her family would dismiss her doubts wasn't a trite misunderstanding or villainy on the part of her family, it made sense in context of the situation and mores of the time.
Best of all, the secondary characters were wonderful, in their own right, in this story, as they stood. They didn't overwhelm the hero or heroine but they weren't passive, two-dimensional cut outs either. I especially adore when a mother is depicted as a genuinely caring person, foibles and all. The pacing allowed time for the characters to evolve, for the romance to mature, and the need for healing to be more than a hand wave. In the end, you have no doubt this couple will ever settle for the image of romance.
My only complaint is the book cover that I didn't see until after I wrote this review. I know sex sells, but for this book it's misleading as far as the contents within. Thank goodness for e-readers where the only thing exposed is the Scooby Doo band-aid on the scratched surface. Reviewed for Romance Reviews Magazine - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
March 24, 2017
This is a suspenseful, engrossing story. It's captivating and full of intrigue, and has some charming characters. The relationship between John and Sibella is sweet and gentle, it's romantic the way the engage with each other. The drama that unfolds after John's rejection is heartbreaking for them both. In the end John redeems himself completely.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from eBook Discovery. This is my honest opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from eBook Discovery. This is my honest opinion of it.
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