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The Donet Trilogy #2
Echo in the Wind
"Regan Walker sweeps you away to a time and place you'll NEVER want to leave!"
~ Danelle Harmon, NY Times & USA Today Bestselling Author
England and France 1784
Cast out by his noble father for marrying the woman he loved, Jean Donet took to the sea, becoming a smuggler, delivering French brandy and tea to the south coast of England. When his young wife died, he nearly lost his sanity. In time, he became a pirate and then a privateer, vowing to never again risk his heart.
As Donet’s wealth grew, so grew his fame as a daring ship’s captain, the terror of the English Channel in the American War. When his father and older brother die in a carriage accident in France, Jean becomes the comte de Saintonge, a title he never wanted.
Lady Joanna West cares little for London Society, which considers her its darling. Marriage in the ton is either dull or disastrous. She wants no part of it. To help the poor in Sussex, she joins in their smuggling. Now she is the master of the beach, risking her reputation and her life. One night off the coast of Bognor, Joanna encounters the menacing captain of a smuggling ship, never realizing he is the mysterious comte de Saintonge.
Can Donet resist the English vixen who entices him as no other woman? Will Lady Joanna risk all for an uncertain chance at love in the arms of the dashing Jean Donet?
~ Danelle Harmon, NY Times & USA Today Bestselling Author
England and France 1784
Cast out by his noble father for marrying the woman he loved, Jean Donet took to the sea, becoming a smuggler, delivering French brandy and tea to the south coast of England. When his young wife died, he nearly lost his sanity. In time, he became a pirate and then a privateer, vowing to never again risk his heart.
As Donet’s wealth grew, so grew his fame as a daring ship’s captain, the terror of the English Channel in the American War. When his father and older brother die in a carriage accident in France, Jean becomes the comte de Saintonge, a title he never wanted.
Lady Joanna West cares little for London Society, which considers her its darling. Marriage in the ton is either dull or disastrous. She wants no part of it. To help the poor in Sussex, she joins in their smuggling. Now she is the master of the beach, risking her reputation and her life. One night off the coast of Bognor, Joanna encounters the menacing captain of a smuggling ship, never realizing he is the mysterious comte de Saintonge.
Can Donet resist the English vixen who entices him as no other woman? Will Lady Joanna risk all for an uncertain chance at love in the arms of the dashing Jean Donet?
- GenresHistorical Romance
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 23, 2017
41 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Regan Walker
30 books811 followersSignup for Regan's Newsletter and get all the news, new releases and deals... and you might win a book! http://www.reganwalkerauthor.com/
Award-winning, bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romantic historical fiction. Also an avid reader/reviewer of historical love stories set in the 19th century or earlier. Author website: www.reganwalkerauthor.com. Historical Romance Review blog: reganromancereview.blogspot.com.
My stories will sweep you away, I promise. They are historically authentic with real historical figures. I do hundreds of hours of research for each book.
Praise for THE AGENTS OF THE CROWN:
“Ms. Walker has the rare ability to make you forget you are reading a book…the characters become real, the modern world fades away and all that is left is the intrigue, drama and romance.” ~ Straight from the Library
RACING WITH THE WIND: "... a superb historical romance, filled with passion, political intrigue, and a worthy hero and heroine!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Cynthia Wright
AGAINST THE WIND: "A fabulous tale with exciting twists and turns reflecting a little known event in England's history and, at its heart, a wonderful love story." ~ NY Times Bestselling author Shirlee Busbee
WIND RAVEN: “A salty, sweeping, evocative tale of romance on the high seas—and a good old-fashioned love story that will keep you up far, far past your bedtime. So, reach for the coffee. Brava for Regan Walker!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Danelle Harmon
THE MEDIEVAL WARRIORS series:
“This series captures the Medieval era perfectly, creating the true sensation of traveling back in time to experience epic, riveting love stories that ignite the imagination. Beautifully written, perfectly paced and action-packed with passionate love affairs... What more can you ask?” ~ The Book Review
THE DONET TRILOGY:
“The Donet Trilogy has everything you’d ever want in historical romance. From spies, smugglers and pirates to masked balls and opulent palaces—what more could you ask for? Regan has created an immersive world packed with well-researched historical detail and a cast of characters that you really grow to love.” – Reading in Wellies
Award-winning, bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romantic historical fiction. Also an avid reader/reviewer of historical love stories set in the 19th century or earlier. Author website: www.reganwalkerauthor.com. Historical Romance Review blog: reganromancereview.blogspot.com.
My stories will sweep you away, I promise. They are historically authentic with real historical figures. I do hundreds of hours of research for each book.
Praise for THE AGENTS OF THE CROWN:
“Ms. Walker has the rare ability to make you forget you are reading a book…the characters become real, the modern world fades away and all that is left is the intrigue, drama and romance.” ~ Straight from the Library
RACING WITH THE WIND: "... a superb historical romance, filled with passion, political intrigue, and a worthy hero and heroine!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Cynthia Wright
AGAINST THE WIND: "A fabulous tale with exciting twists and turns reflecting a little known event in England's history and, at its heart, a wonderful love story." ~ NY Times Bestselling author Shirlee Busbee
WIND RAVEN: “A salty, sweeping, evocative tale of romance on the high seas—and a good old-fashioned love story that will keep you up far, far past your bedtime. So, reach for the coffee. Brava for Regan Walker!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Danelle Harmon
THE MEDIEVAL WARRIORS series:
“This series captures the Medieval era perfectly, creating the true sensation of traveling back in time to experience epic, riveting love stories that ignite the imagination. Beautifully written, perfectly paced and action-packed with passionate love affairs... What more can you ask?” ~ The Book Review
THE DONET TRILOGY:
“The Donet Trilogy has everything you’d ever want in historical romance. From spies, smugglers and pirates to masked balls and opulent palaces—what more could you ask for? Regan has created an immersive world packed with well-researched historical detail and a cast of characters that you really grow to love.” – Reading in Wellies
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 18, 2017
This is just so unbelievably good! It is an exciting tale, the relationship between Jean and Joanna is steamy and tender. They are a sensual and seductive couple, who you like instantly. It has everything you would ever want in a Historical Romance, intelligently written atmospheric and engrossing.
A hero who can make any woman swoon with just a smouldering look, he is an enigmatic and suave individual who has a breath-taking Gaelic confidence and charisma. A heroine, who is not a wilting wallflower she is vibrant and strong-willed independent woman who has her own beliefs and views on the world and she isn’t afraid of voicing them. Together these two are a force to be reckoned with but they compliment each other too.
The plot is the pièce de résistance of this, it is a resounding success. You have smuggling, pirating, shootings and emergency surgery at sea, done by the Captain no less. It is action packed from the very start and all wrapped up with some incredible Historical fact.
I just love it!
I have been hooked with Walker’s work since reading the amazing Viking Warrior’s she draws you in with her skill and knowledge, she ignites a fire in your imagination that makes you believe that you have left your comfy chair and you are in another time and place and this is no difference, in fact this is something special. Echo in the Wind is flawless, it flows seamlessly it takes you on an exhilarating adventure through a dark and dangerous time, you become absorbed into the era and you never want to leave.
I cannot recommend this enough this is a complete and utter triumphant Historical Romance.
Outstanding!
This was a ARC copy via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Full Review at Chicks Rogues and Scandals
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
A hero who can make any woman swoon with just a smouldering look, he is an enigmatic and suave individual who has a breath-taking Gaelic confidence and charisma. A heroine, who is not a wilting wallflower she is vibrant and strong-willed independent woman who has her own beliefs and views on the world and she isn’t afraid of voicing them. Together these two are a force to be reckoned with but they compliment each other too.
The plot is the pièce de résistance of this, it is a resounding success. You have smuggling, pirating, shootings and emergency surgery at sea, done by the Captain no less. It is action packed from the very start and all wrapped up with some incredible Historical fact.
I just love it!
I have been hooked with Walker’s work since reading the amazing Viking Warrior’s she draws you in with her skill and knowledge, she ignites a fire in your imagination that makes you believe that you have left your comfy chair and you are in another time and place and this is no difference, in fact this is something special. Echo in the Wind is flawless, it flows seamlessly it takes you on an exhilarating adventure through a dark and dangerous time, you become absorbed into the era and you never want to leave.
I cannot recommend this enough this is a complete and utter triumphant Historical Romance.
Outstanding!
This was a ARC copy via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Full Review at Chicks Rogues and Scandals
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...
May 14, 2017
Echo in the Wind (Donet Trilogy book 2)
By Regan Walker
Rating 5 stars
Heat 4 🔥
Jean Donet cast out and disowned by his domineering father because he chose to marry the woman he loved when he was a young man. Forced to turn to smuggling to support his young family, like a siren that cast her spell he realized that the sea would become his mistress. His wife's death almost destroyed him and he vowed to never love again. He became a notorious pirate/privateer amassing great wealth and many enemies. The deaths of his father and brother foisted on him the family title that he cared nothing for and his brothers daughter as his ward. Traveling to England for his grandsons baptism he has a run in with a mysterious young smuggler that will forever change his life in ways he never thought to experience again.
Lady Joanna West the sister of the Earl of Torrington is no stranger to heartache having lost her beloved parents and older brother is sympathetic to the less fortunate. She has no dreams of ever getting married, marriages within the ton are business transactions. She turns to smuggling to help the poor of Chichester with the help of her younger brother, that keep food on the tables of the poor, and the wealthy enjoying their tea and other goods. Her older brother Richard being none the wiser for it. She meets the alluring Jean Donet at a ball her brother is hosting and feels an attraction to him....no other man has made her feel that way before, unknown to her that he is the french smuggler she's been dealing with. The situation is about to change for Lady Joanna - the authorities bent on capturing all smugglers her fate is now in the hands of one very handsome alluring privateer captain.
Set in England and France at a time of uncertainty Regan Walker does an excellent job at portraying the opulent lifestyle of the French monarchy the lavish details and portrayal of the French countryside. A fast paced romance with passion, danger and an attempted abduction the drama unfolds with mystery and intrigue, leaving the reader with the all the emotions that Joanna embarked on with her life alongside the man that spoke to her heart! Jean Donet gets a second chance at love with the very bold and fearless Joanna West. Joanna gets the love that she never dreamed of ever having. They make an awesome pair she's bold and fearless which speaks to Jeans pirate soul. Together they navigate through their emotions for a chance at a life altering love.
As always Ms. Regan Walker never disappoints with her amazing stories! Full of descriptive detail you are pulled into an era of long ago, an engaging read that will leave you captivated, I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy from the author for my honest opinion.
By Regan Walker
Rating 5 stars
Heat 4 🔥
Jean Donet cast out and disowned by his domineering father because he chose to marry the woman he loved when he was a young man. Forced to turn to smuggling to support his young family, like a siren that cast her spell he realized that the sea would become his mistress. His wife's death almost destroyed him and he vowed to never love again. He became a notorious pirate/privateer amassing great wealth and many enemies. The deaths of his father and brother foisted on him the family title that he cared nothing for and his brothers daughter as his ward. Traveling to England for his grandsons baptism he has a run in with a mysterious young smuggler that will forever change his life in ways he never thought to experience again.
Lady Joanna West the sister of the Earl of Torrington is no stranger to heartache having lost her beloved parents and older brother is sympathetic to the less fortunate. She has no dreams of ever getting married, marriages within the ton are business transactions. She turns to smuggling to help the poor of Chichester with the help of her younger brother, that keep food on the tables of the poor, and the wealthy enjoying their tea and other goods. Her older brother Richard being none the wiser for it. She meets the alluring Jean Donet at a ball her brother is hosting and feels an attraction to him....no other man has made her feel that way before, unknown to her that he is the french smuggler she's been dealing with. The situation is about to change for Lady Joanna - the authorities bent on capturing all smugglers her fate is now in the hands of one very handsome alluring privateer captain.
Set in England and France at a time of uncertainty Regan Walker does an excellent job at portraying the opulent lifestyle of the French monarchy the lavish details and portrayal of the French countryside. A fast paced romance with passion, danger and an attempted abduction the drama unfolds with mystery and intrigue, leaving the reader with the all the emotions that Joanna embarked on with her life alongside the man that spoke to her heart! Jean Donet gets a second chance at love with the very bold and fearless Joanna West. Joanna gets the love that she never dreamed of ever having. They make an awesome pair she's bold and fearless which speaks to Jeans pirate soul. Together they navigate through their emotions for a chance at a life altering love.
As always Ms. Regan Walker never disappoints with her amazing stories! Full of descriptive detail you are pulled into an era of long ago, an engaging read that will leave you captivated, I highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy from the author for my honest opinion.
May 23, 2017
I couldn’t put this book down! The hardest part of writing a review for a book I loved is saying enough to entice you to read it without spoiling the story. When you read one of Regan's books, you not only get a wonderful story, but accurate historical knowledge of the time period.
Jean Donet, handsome widower, Comte, privateer, free trader, uncle, appeared in Ms. Walker’s previous book (To Tame the Wind). His daughter, Claire, is the heroine of that story. He is in England for his grandson’s christening and possibly some business (smuggling). He will not be there too long as his brother has died leaving a young daughter, Zoe, who Jean is now responsible for.
Lady Joanna West, 25, has no desire to wed and prefers her family home in Sussex to London. She and her younger brother, Freddie, help the poor tenants and villagers by avoiding the high tax on tea, brandy and other assorted goods from France. This means buying from ships like Donet’s.
Joanna meets Jean at a party at her country home and again in London. He recognizes her from their smuggling, even though she always dresses like a boy when she is buying goods from him. She returns to Sussex and while checking the smuggled goods on his ship she is shot by someone on a revenue cutter. His ship escapes the cutter and he takes her with him to France. During their time in France she recovers, he discovers his father and brother were murdered, they fall in love, marry and agree Zoe will live with them and not be sent to a convent school. And so much more that I’ll not say and spoil it. They do return to England to see her family but will reside in France.
I can easily recommend this wonderful book which can be read on its own. You do not need to read Claire’s story to understand this one. I’m looking forward to reading Zoe’s HEA in 2018. Regan - I certainly wouldn’t mind if her hero was Freddie. Thank you Regan for sending me an ARC.
Jean Donet, handsome widower, Comte, privateer, free trader, uncle, appeared in Ms. Walker’s previous book (To Tame the Wind). His daughter, Claire, is the heroine of that story. He is in England for his grandson’s christening and possibly some business (smuggling). He will not be there too long as his brother has died leaving a young daughter, Zoe, who Jean is now responsible for.
Lady Joanna West, 25, has no desire to wed and prefers her family home in Sussex to London. She and her younger brother, Freddie, help the poor tenants and villagers by avoiding the high tax on tea, brandy and other assorted goods from France. This means buying from ships like Donet’s.
Joanna meets Jean at a party at her country home and again in London. He recognizes her from their smuggling, even though she always dresses like a boy when she is buying goods from him. She returns to Sussex and while checking the smuggled goods on his ship she is shot by someone on a revenue cutter. His ship escapes the cutter and he takes her with him to France. During their time in France she recovers, he discovers his father and brother were murdered, they fall in love, marry and agree Zoe will live with them and not be sent to a convent school. And so much more that I’ll not say and spoil it. They do return to England to see her family but will reside in France.
I can easily recommend this wonderful book which can be read on its own. You do not need to read Claire’s story to understand this one. I’m looking forward to reading Zoe’s HEA in 2018. Regan - I certainly wouldn’t mind if her hero was Freddie. Thank you Regan for sending me an ARC.
May 23, 2017
Echo in the Wind by Regan Walker is an outstanding Georgian Historical Romance. "Donet Trilogy", Book 2, but can be read as a stand alone. Set in England and France in 1784. The story begins in West Sussex, England.
This is the heartwarming story of Jean Donet, comte de Saintonge and Lady Joanna West.
Donet, was disowned from his family in France by his father, because his father did not like the woman his son wished to marry, so, Jean, made his own way and fortune by smuggling and others things to feed his young family. Donet gave up all for the love of a woman.Then his beloved wife dies, leaving him with a young daughter. Donet is bold, handsome, dark and a privateer, he's the Captain of the la Reine Noire.
Joanna, is the oldest sister of Lord Torrington. She's a smuggler with her younger brother, Freddy. They are smugglers to help the poor villagers of Chichester. Joanna is looking for adventure.
Love of a lifetime, second chances in love and life, adventure, danger, a bit of mystery, suspense, romance and a few surprises makes "Echo in the Wind" a page turner.
The mysterious and handsome Jean Donet and the elegant but advanteous Joanna make an excellent match. I absolutely loved their story!!
Well written with Ms. Walker's usual aplomb, her historical details, her characterizations, and her vivid details, draw the reader into her stories and held them in awe. Her details of the countryside, makes the reader feel as if they are there, as if you can breath in the fragrant scents and feel the wind on your face. Simply breathtaking! ! I felt as if I was there, along with the characters. It was easy to feel Donet's heartache and his reluctance to love again. My heart broke for both him and Joanna.
A fast paced drama, with passion and romance. The plot was magnificent, engaging and intriguing, as Ms. Walker's stories usually are. The characters are strong-willed, bold, well rounded, very believable and realistic.
Once again, Regan Walker brings readers a story of adventure, and romance, that will keep readers fully engaged. I was glued to the pages from the first sentence forward. Magnificent! ! Another masterfully and brilliantly executed story!! Bravo!! Ms. Walker definitely knows how to write Historical Romance. I love her stories and "Echo in the Wind", was no different. A absolutely wicked but delicious story. Another must read by Regan Walker. Beautiful and heartwarming story!!!
I received a complimentary copy.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Received by: AprilR
This is the heartwarming story of Jean Donet, comte de Saintonge and Lady Joanna West.
Donet, was disowned from his family in France by his father, because his father did not like the woman his son wished to marry, so, Jean, made his own way and fortune by smuggling and others things to feed his young family. Donet gave up all for the love of a woman.Then his beloved wife dies, leaving him with a young daughter. Donet is bold, handsome, dark and a privateer, he's the Captain of the la Reine Noire.
Joanna, is the oldest sister of Lord Torrington. She's a smuggler with her younger brother, Freddy. They are smugglers to help the poor villagers of Chichester. Joanna is looking for adventure.
Love of a lifetime, second chances in love and life, adventure, danger, a bit of mystery, suspense, romance and a few surprises makes "Echo in the Wind" a page turner.
The mysterious and handsome Jean Donet and the elegant but advanteous Joanna make an excellent match. I absolutely loved their story!!
Well written with Ms. Walker's usual aplomb, her historical details, her characterizations, and her vivid details, draw the reader into her stories and held them in awe. Her details of the countryside, makes the reader feel as if they are there, as if you can breath in the fragrant scents and feel the wind on your face. Simply breathtaking! ! I felt as if I was there, along with the characters. It was easy to feel Donet's heartache and his reluctance to love again. My heart broke for both him and Joanna.
A fast paced drama, with passion and romance. The plot was magnificent, engaging and intriguing, as Ms. Walker's stories usually are. The characters are strong-willed, bold, well rounded, very believable and realistic.
Once again, Regan Walker brings readers a story of adventure, and romance, that will keep readers fully engaged. I was glued to the pages from the first sentence forward. Magnificent! ! Another masterfully and brilliantly executed story!! Bravo!! Ms. Walker definitely knows how to write Historical Romance. I love her stories and "Echo in the Wind", was no different. A absolutely wicked but delicious story. Another must read by Regan Walker. Beautiful and heartwarming story!!!
I received a complimentary copy.
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Received by: AprilR
May 16, 2017
Regan Walker has to be one of my favourite authors in the historical fiction genre. Her writing takes you to another time and place, with beautiful settings and characters that capture the imagination.
From fearsome Medieval warriors with hearts of gold to dashing Georgian pirates, Regan excels in creating memorable fictional heroes. Jean Donet may well be her best yet - or at least my personal favourite. Part sea captain part nobleman, he's the perfect gentleman with an intense and dangerous streak. Ruthless with those who cross him he has a reputation across the continent, yet he has a passionate soul and would protect those he loves with his life.
Then of course there are the unconventional female characters. Always feisty and independent, Regan's women are a force to be reckoned with. On the first page of Echo in the Wind we are introduced to Lady Joanna West, a high born lady moonlighting as a male smuggler! Unbeknownst to her, the dark and mysterious captain providing the goods is none other than Jean Donet, who sees right through her disguise.
Joanna is reluctant to marry into the ton, fearing a life of boredom and an unfaithful husband. She is perfectly content to remain a spinster smuggler, until Donet turns her world upside down. The two characters were wonderfully matched - they had chemistry from their very first meeting and I loved how the story was told from both of their perspectives. As in Regan's other works, even the secondary characters in this story are well-defined, making the fictional world they inhabit all the more three dimensional. I particularly liked Jean's quartermaster Emile and would love to find out more about him.
The historical details in this novel have been impeccably researched. It was a time of uncertainty, and with the chapters set in Paris you can almost feel the undercurrent of the impending French revolution. Regan says in her author's notes that she hopes readers will feel as if they have travelled back in time while reading Echo in the Wind, and I most certainly did. From the rugged English coast to the opulence of Versailles I was transported utterly into Jean and Joanna's world, and I didn't want to leave. I was very pleased to read therefore, that there will be another novel in the Donet series - the story of Jean's ward Zoe. I can only hope and assume that Joanna and Jean will make an appearance, as there is certainly more to come from them!
Full of passion, danger and adventure Echo in the Wind is a novel of seizing life, and love, and following your heart.
Review also posted here: http://lilmissvixreads.blogspot.com/2...
From fearsome Medieval warriors with hearts of gold to dashing Georgian pirates, Regan excels in creating memorable fictional heroes. Jean Donet may well be her best yet - or at least my personal favourite. Part sea captain part nobleman, he's the perfect gentleman with an intense and dangerous streak. Ruthless with those who cross him he has a reputation across the continent, yet he has a passionate soul and would protect those he loves with his life.
Then of course there are the unconventional female characters. Always feisty and independent, Regan's women are a force to be reckoned with. On the first page of Echo in the Wind we are introduced to Lady Joanna West, a high born lady moonlighting as a male smuggler! Unbeknownst to her, the dark and mysterious captain providing the goods is none other than Jean Donet, who sees right through her disguise.
Joanna is reluctant to marry into the ton, fearing a life of boredom and an unfaithful husband. She is perfectly content to remain a spinster smuggler, until Donet turns her world upside down. The two characters were wonderfully matched - they had chemistry from their very first meeting and I loved how the story was told from both of their perspectives. As in Regan's other works, even the secondary characters in this story are well-defined, making the fictional world they inhabit all the more three dimensional. I particularly liked Jean's quartermaster Emile and would love to find out more about him.
The historical details in this novel have been impeccably researched. It was a time of uncertainty, and with the chapters set in Paris you can almost feel the undercurrent of the impending French revolution. Regan says in her author's notes that she hopes readers will feel as if they have travelled back in time while reading Echo in the Wind, and I most certainly did. From the rugged English coast to the opulence of Versailles I was transported utterly into Jean and Joanna's world, and I didn't want to leave. I was very pleased to read therefore, that there will be another novel in the Donet series - the story of Jean's ward Zoe. I can only hope and assume that Joanna and Jean will make an appearance, as there is certainly more to come from them!
Full of passion, danger and adventure Echo in the Wind is a novel of seizing life, and love, and following your heart.
Review also posted here: http://lilmissvixreads.blogspot.com/2...
March 25, 2019
Jean Donet is a self made man, disowned by his father for marrying the woman he loved, Jean walked away from his aristocratic life without a second thought. To support his wife, he turned to the sea, as a privateer, spy and smuggler. When his wife dies, Jean is sure that he will never love again, he puts all his passion into his work, but a chance meeting with a smuggler and the death of his father and brother will change everything.
Lady Joanna West is the sister of the Earl of Torrington and she too has known her share of loss, when she learns the villagers on her brother's estate are engaged in free trade, she jumps in to help. She formally meets Jean at a reception for the Prime Minister - she is attracted to him, even though he is much older than her and has a married daughter not much younger than Joanna. Jean immediately recognizes Joanna as the smuggler he met and becomes fascinated with her.
When another smuggling run brings them together and things go wrong, a revenue ship tries to capture them. And in the midst of the battle, Joanna is shot, leaving Jean no choice but to take Joanna with him. He cares for her wounds and insists on taking her to France to his surgeon. But once they arrive, he is not ready to let her go.
Together they will journey to his family estate and on to Paris trying to figure out they mystery of his father and brother's deaths. Along the way, Jean will discover that his heart didn't die with his beloved wife, but with war on the horizon, can love blossom between them?
I thought this was a very good story, but the first half is a bit wordy and there is a lot of information that is interesting, but really not necessary to the story, once they get to France, things pick up and don't stop until the very end. The characters are likeable, the writing is good, the love scenes are mild and the ending is sweet. This is the second book in the Donet Series, but it can be read as a standalone with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an e-book that was provided to me.*
Lady Joanna West is the sister of the Earl of Torrington and she too has known her share of loss, when she learns the villagers on her brother's estate are engaged in free trade, she jumps in to help. She formally meets Jean at a reception for the Prime Minister - she is attracted to him, even though he is much older than her and has a married daughter not much younger than Joanna. Jean immediately recognizes Joanna as the smuggler he met and becomes fascinated with her.
When another smuggling run brings them together and things go wrong, a revenue ship tries to capture them. And in the midst of the battle, Joanna is shot, leaving Jean no choice but to take Joanna with him. He cares for her wounds and insists on taking her to France to his surgeon. But once they arrive, he is not ready to let her go.
Together they will journey to his family estate and on to Paris trying to figure out they mystery of his father and brother's deaths. Along the way, Jean will discover that his heart didn't die with his beloved wife, but with war on the horizon, can love blossom between them?
I thought this was a very good story, but the first half is a bit wordy and there is a lot of information that is interesting, but really not necessary to the story, once they get to France, things pick up and don't stop until the very end. The characters are likeable, the writing is good, the love scenes are mild and the ending is sweet. This is the second book in the Donet Series, but it can be read as a standalone with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an e-book that was provided to me.*
May 16, 2017
Actually, this wonderful story could easily be read after To Tame the Wind in the Agents of the Crown series, because the hero, Jean Donet, is the father of the heroine, Claire, in To Tame the Wind. It is a marvelous romantic adventure with Joanna, the “spinster” daughter of an English Earl and the widower, Jean Donet, a former pirate/privateer who has inherited a great holding with vineyards in France from his deceased father and older brother. I do not want to give away here how they first met, but it was an exciting chance meeting that later became a love affair and second chance romance for the hero. A truly “swoon worthy” historical romance by a most excellent author!
May 22, 2017
To read a Regan Walker novel is like taking a step back in time. Her excellent writing skill brings the sights, sounds, and smells to life (not to mention her extensive research into the history of the time – pre French Revolution) Echo in the Wind is no exception.
Jean Donet, disgraced son of a French comte, pirate, privateer, loved his wife deeply and mourns her loss still. Wealthy on his own he now finds himself comte de Saintonge (after the death of his father and brother) with all the responsibilities that go with that distinguished title – including the care of his young niece.
To satisfy his love for the sea and a yearning for adventure Jean continues by smuggling goods into England and evading the Excise men. Little does he realize his latest run and encounter with the young lad in charge will change his life in ways he thought were lost to him forever.
Lady Joanna West, sister to an Earl, has no desire to marry for anything less than love. With no prospects of that happening Joanna turns all her energy into helping the poor of the local village. The method she chooses – helping the local smuggling ring bring free goods into England and using the profits to help the poor.
Little does she realize the dark pirate from her last run before returning to London for the season, a chance meeting with the enigmatic comte de Saintonge, and a run-in with Excise men sets her on a course that will forever change her life.
With a fifteen year age difference, the animosity between the English and French, the difference in religion, and the love for a dead woman prevent a Happily Ever After? Or like an echo in the wind will love come a second time?
Jean Donet, disgraced son of a French comte, pirate, privateer, loved his wife deeply and mourns her loss still. Wealthy on his own he now finds himself comte de Saintonge (after the death of his father and brother) with all the responsibilities that go with that distinguished title – including the care of his young niece.
To satisfy his love for the sea and a yearning for adventure Jean continues by smuggling goods into England and evading the Excise men. Little does he realize his latest run and encounter with the young lad in charge will change his life in ways he thought were lost to him forever.
Lady Joanna West, sister to an Earl, has no desire to marry for anything less than love. With no prospects of that happening Joanna turns all her energy into helping the poor of the local village. The method she chooses – helping the local smuggling ring bring free goods into England and using the profits to help the poor.
Little does she realize the dark pirate from her last run before returning to London for the season, a chance meeting with the enigmatic comte de Saintonge, and a run-in with Excise men sets her on a course that will forever change her life.
With a fifteen year age difference, the animosity between the English and French, the difference in religion, and the love for a dead woman prevent a Happily Ever After? Or like an echo in the wind will love come a second time?
May 22, 2017
What can I say about Regan Walker's writing that hasn't been said before, nothing, she still takes you on a wonderful adventure
This is the story of Claire's father, the Comte de Saintonge, Jean Donet and Lady Joanna West, a lady who cares nothing for London Society and its whims, she sets her mind to helping the poor by buying contraband from a smuggler with the help of her younger brother.
Lady Joanna meets Jean Donet at a ball her eldest brother is hosting at his home not realising that he is in fact the smuggler with whom she had been dealing with.
Lady Joanna in disguise is shot when on Jean's ship by the authorities bent on capturing smugglers and to escape is taken to France.
This is a fast paced story filled with danger, intrigue and romance amongst the backdrop of England and the French countryside.
Once again this is one you won't be able to put down and will continue to read and read.
I received an advanced readers copy from the author and I voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
This is the story of Claire's father, the Comte de Saintonge, Jean Donet and Lady Joanna West, a lady who cares nothing for London Society and its whims, she sets her mind to helping the poor by buying contraband from a smuggler with the help of her younger brother.
Lady Joanna meets Jean Donet at a ball her eldest brother is hosting at his home not realising that he is in fact the smuggler with whom she had been dealing with.
Lady Joanna in disguise is shot when on Jean's ship by the authorities bent on capturing smugglers and to escape is taken to France.
This is a fast paced story filled with danger, intrigue and romance amongst the backdrop of England and the French countryside.
Once again this is one you won't be able to put down and will continue to read and read.
I received an advanced readers copy from the author and I voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
May 10, 2017
Set in England and France in 1784, “Echo in the Wind” is the second book in what was to be Ms. Walker’s Donet Duology (and which has now become a trilogy). The first book – To Tame the Wind – served as both the start of a new series and the prequel to her Agents of the Crown series. They can be read as standalone although I strongly believe the experience is even better when one reads both series as they complement each other and bring on interesting details.
Historically accurate, filled with well-defined characters (both main and secondary – and I dare anyone not to like Franklin, aka “Ben”, resident cat on La Reine Noire, Jean Donet’s main ship), with a dash of mystery, danger, and adventure along with some humoristic moments and beautifully turned sentences, this is a story that will stay with you for a long time after you finish the book. The historical aspect is particularly interesting, so much so that I found myself digging into the time period described in the book – which is always a “plus” for me when I read a book.
This book is definitely a well-written page turner.
Historically accurate, filled with well-defined characters (both main and secondary – and I dare anyone not to like Franklin, aka “Ben”, resident cat on La Reine Noire, Jean Donet’s main ship), with a dash of mystery, danger, and adventure along with some humoristic moments and beautifully turned sentences, this is a story that will stay with you for a long time after you finish the book. The historical aspect is particularly interesting, so much so that I found myself digging into the time period described in the book – which is always a “plus” for me when I read a book.
This book is definitely a well-written page turner.
August 8, 2017
Echo in the Wind is a fantastic read!
Regan Walker is an author who knows how to write a fantastic story. Her books are filled with history, romance, and great adventure. Echo in the Wind is a wonderful read about loves second chance. This is book two in the Donet Trilogy. Although, this title can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend reading this title along with book one, To Tame The Wind. I'm now eagerly awaiting the series third installment due out in 2018. This is a truly great read by a wonderful author who is now on my auto buy list. Brava!
Regan Walker is an author who knows how to write a fantastic story. Her books are filled with history, romance, and great adventure. Echo in the Wind is a wonderful read about loves second chance. This is book two in the Donet Trilogy. Although, this title can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend reading this title along with book one, To Tame The Wind. I'm now eagerly awaiting the series third installment due out in 2018. This is a truly great read by a wonderful author who is now on my auto buy list. Brava!
May 23, 2017
"The answer lay just offshore, silhouetted against a cobalt blue sky streaked with gold from the setting sun: a black-sided ship, her sails lifted like a lady gathering up her skirts, poised to flee, waiting for a signal." -Regan Walker, Echo in the Wind.
Echo in the Wind, the second book in the Donet Trilogy is another heart-searing read. I was swept in among the furling sails and the sea mist, foggy coves, smuggling of cognac and the court intrigue of Versailles. Historical romance writer, Regan Walker's research scripts the pace of events in this intriguing period of history seamlessly with the courageous desire of reawakened hearts.
Born into the British aristocracy shortly after the French aided in the American Revolution, Lady Joanna West is the target of many wealthy men. Her auburn curls and taste for French fashion gain many offers for her hand in marriage. All of whom she refuses. At six and twenty years, she finds herself weary of the games of the aristocrats and prefers tending to the struggling poor class. With the excessive tariffs on tea, fine wine, and cognac, only the wealthiest could afford such luxuries, leaving a working class without means to keep their shops and inns open. The bold Lady Joanna and her younger brother Freddie work clandestinely in smuggling these precious commodities to help their working class earn enough to keep their families fed and warm. It is a dangerous activity for a noble born lady. If caught, she could bring shame to her family's name. Worse, she would face the hangman's noose, something she had to witness in the bailey in London. What has she gotten her family in to? She vows that the last drop off the Coast of Bognor would be the last. She will find another way for the people to survive the escalating tensions and threats of another war. In the meantime, she would act as a dutiful sister to her brother, Ricard, Earl of Torrington, and hostess to both English and French dignitaries, when the mysterious Comte de Saintonge enters her family home.
The new Comte de Saintonge sends mixed signals to Lady Joanna, who believes she is immune to the charms of the elite class. Most of these men speak earnestly of honor but do not act honorably when it comes to marriage vows. The Comte is not a man for such games. He married for love at a young age. His furious father never forgave his son for marrying against his wishes, so Jean Phillipe Donet was forced to leave the security of the high-born and find a new life to support his young wife and child. He turned to the sea and later, in rebellion against the high tariffs and the economic strife of the poor, to smuggling. After the loss of his beloved young wife to illness, he vows never to give his heart to someone again. The sea becomes his mistress, but to love another woman again is unthinkable. His black cat, Franklin, named after the influential Ben Franklin during the period, is a symbol of good luck on his ship, La Reine Noire. So the crew fares well under the pirate, Jean Donet. The Capitaine's fortunes turn and with his restored family title, he is once again circling in deep and treacherous waters.
The story is set in a volatile time in history between France and England. With whispers of another war on the horizon, desperation is escalating, can a fierce new love be born? Will Jean Donet conquer his fear of loving, and perhaps risk losing, another woman? Will the beautiful Lady Joanna realize that she has met her match in society? It is a story that Regan Walker masterfully weaves. The tension of this period of history. The music and glitter of the aristocracy with an indication of the strife of the poor. Faith, destiny, music, velvet, silks, cognac, political allure and amongst it all, a love story that is as epic as the era it is set in.
This was a ARC copy via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Echo in the Wind, the second book in the Donet Trilogy is another heart-searing read. I was swept in among the furling sails and the sea mist, foggy coves, smuggling of cognac and the court intrigue of Versailles. Historical romance writer, Regan Walker's research scripts the pace of events in this intriguing period of history seamlessly with the courageous desire of reawakened hearts.
Born into the British aristocracy shortly after the French aided in the American Revolution, Lady Joanna West is the target of many wealthy men. Her auburn curls and taste for French fashion gain many offers for her hand in marriage. All of whom she refuses. At six and twenty years, she finds herself weary of the games of the aristocrats and prefers tending to the struggling poor class. With the excessive tariffs on tea, fine wine, and cognac, only the wealthiest could afford such luxuries, leaving a working class without means to keep their shops and inns open. The bold Lady Joanna and her younger brother Freddie work clandestinely in smuggling these precious commodities to help their working class earn enough to keep their families fed and warm. It is a dangerous activity for a noble born lady. If caught, she could bring shame to her family's name. Worse, she would face the hangman's noose, something she had to witness in the bailey in London. What has she gotten her family in to? She vows that the last drop off the Coast of Bognor would be the last. She will find another way for the people to survive the escalating tensions and threats of another war. In the meantime, she would act as a dutiful sister to her brother, Ricard, Earl of Torrington, and hostess to both English and French dignitaries, when the mysterious Comte de Saintonge enters her family home.
The new Comte de Saintonge sends mixed signals to Lady Joanna, who believes she is immune to the charms of the elite class. Most of these men speak earnestly of honor but do not act honorably when it comes to marriage vows. The Comte is not a man for such games. He married for love at a young age. His furious father never forgave his son for marrying against his wishes, so Jean Phillipe Donet was forced to leave the security of the high-born and find a new life to support his young wife and child. He turned to the sea and later, in rebellion against the high tariffs and the economic strife of the poor, to smuggling. After the loss of his beloved young wife to illness, he vows never to give his heart to someone again. The sea becomes his mistress, but to love another woman again is unthinkable. His black cat, Franklin, named after the influential Ben Franklin during the period, is a symbol of good luck on his ship, La Reine Noire. So the crew fares well under the pirate, Jean Donet. The Capitaine's fortunes turn and with his restored family title, he is once again circling in deep and treacherous waters.
The story is set in a volatile time in history between France and England. With whispers of another war on the horizon, desperation is escalating, can a fierce new love be born? Will Jean Donet conquer his fear of loving, and perhaps risk losing, another woman? Will the beautiful Lady Joanna realize that she has met her match in society? It is a story that Regan Walker masterfully weaves. The tension of this period of history. The music and glitter of the aristocracy with an indication of the strife of the poor. Faith, destiny, music, velvet, silks, cognac, political allure and amongst it all, a love story that is as epic as the era it is set in.
This was a ARC copy via the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2017
Adventure, Intrigue and Romance
Echo in the Wind, the second book in Regan Walker’s Donet Trilogy, is a beautifully crafted tale, containing adventure, intrigue and a romance between a young English aristocrat and a French noble, unexpectedly brought together by smuggling. The novel, which transports the reader from the south coast of England to London, the English Channel, the Channel Islands, and beyond to France, is a captivating and fast paced read, sure to be a hit with readers of historical romance. I am familiar with Regan Walker’s work and if you want an entertaining and heartfelt read that is strong on historical authenticity, you need look no further!
I loved the character of Lady Joanna West, an independent and stubborn young lady who balks at the very idea of making a marriage with one of the nobles amongst the English ton. Her commitment to helping the poor on her estate is admirable, even if her methods – engaging in smuggling, are more than a little risky. Joanna’s clandestine activities with the smugglers catches the eye of Jean Donet, the former pirate and privateer who we met in the former book in the series To Tame the Wind. Although Jean is now the Comte de Saintonge, after his brother and father were killed in an accident, his real love is the sea and he enjoys the excitement and the challenge of championing free trade through his smuggling activities.
Their romance and the ensuing plot sweeps the reader away with its intensity. Donet falls hard for Joanna, the first woman he has had any feelings before since the death of his wife many years before. At first he struggles with his emotions, afraid to love again, lest he loses that which he holds most dear. Joanna in turn is drawn to the debonair Frenchman, so different to the men of the English aristocracy, yet is often confused by his actions and demeanour towards her.
Could she ever be anything more than a pleasant diversion as he remains devoted to the memory of his beloved first wife? There is also the age difference between the couple. Also how can they possibly have a future when he is firmly rooted in France and she in England? Moreover will her smuggling activities lead to her downfall? The couple have an emotional journey to make and my heart ached for them. Circumstances draw the couple ever closer and they are put in a position where they are both fighting a losing battle to deny their feelings for one another. As the Revenue and Customs net closes in on Joanna’s illegal activities and danger waits in the wings for Jean in France, both must learn to take a chance on love before their future can be secured.
Regan Walker’s attention to historical detail and her inclusion of real historical figures in the narrative – in this novel we see Pitt, Wilberforce, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette amongst others, adds considerable depth to her novels and puts her amongst the very best of authors within the genre. Although the romance between Joanna and Jean is very much central to the plot, here is also reference to the economic and social issues of the day both within England and France. I like that her characters do not exist in a vacuum and the wider issues and personalities of the day are explored as it makes for a far more satisfying read. The descriptions of life aboard ship and on the waves is also very realistic and it is clear that the author has carried out meticulous research.
Highly recommended to readers of historical romance.
Please note, a copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Echo in the Wind, the second book in Regan Walker’s Donet Trilogy, is a beautifully crafted tale, containing adventure, intrigue and a romance between a young English aristocrat and a French noble, unexpectedly brought together by smuggling. The novel, which transports the reader from the south coast of England to London, the English Channel, the Channel Islands, and beyond to France, is a captivating and fast paced read, sure to be a hit with readers of historical romance. I am familiar with Regan Walker’s work and if you want an entertaining and heartfelt read that is strong on historical authenticity, you need look no further!
I loved the character of Lady Joanna West, an independent and stubborn young lady who balks at the very idea of making a marriage with one of the nobles amongst the English ton. Her commitment to helping the poor on her estate is admirable, even if her methods – engaging in smuggling, are more than a little risky. Joanna’s clandestine activities with the smugglers catches the eye of Jean Donet, the former pirate and privateer who we met in the former book in the series To Tame the Wind. Although Jean is now the Comte de Saintonge, after his brother and father were killed in an accident, his real love is the sea and he enjoys the excitement and the challenge of championing free trade through his smuggling activities.
Their romance and the ensuing plot sweeps the reader away with its intensity. Donet falls hard for Joanna, the first woman he has had any feelings before since the death of his wife many years before. At first he struggles with his emotions, afraid to love again, lest he loses that which he holds most dear. Joanna in turn is drawn to the debonair Frenchman, so different to the men of the English aristocracy, yet is often confused by his actions and demeanour towards her.
Could she ever be anything more than a pleasant diversion as he remains devoted to the memory of his beloved first wife? There is also the age difference between the couple. Also how can they possibly have a future when he is firmly rooted in France and she in England? Moreover will her smuggling activities lead to her downfall? The couple have an emotional journey to make and my heart ached for them. Circumstances draw the couple ever closer and they are put in a position where they are both fighting a losing battle to deny their feelings for one another. As the Revenue and Customs net closes in on Joanna’s illegal activities and danger waits in the wings for Jean in France, both must learn to take a chance on love before their future can be secured.
Regan Walker’s attention to historical detail and her inclusion of real historical figures in the narrative – in this novel we see Pitt, Wilberforce, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette amongst others, adds considerable depth to her novels and puts her amongst the very best of authors within the genre. Although the romance between Joanna and Jean is very much central to the plot, here is also reference to the economic and social issues of the day both within England and France. I like that her characters do not exist in a vacuum and the wider issues and personalities of the day are explored as it makes for a far more satisfying read. The descriptions of life aboard ship and on the waves is also very realistic and it is clear that the author has carried out meticulous research.
Highly recommended to readers of historical romance.
Please note, a copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
June 2, 2017
Echo in the Wind
Donet Trilogy #2
By Regan Walker
In this story we are taken back to 1784, when the French and English were suffering from the cost of the American war. Unrest of the people, due to high taxation caused many to be involved in smuggling.
This is how the love story begins. Jean Donet, comte de Saintonge and captain of la Reine Noire, former pirate and Privateer, meets the bold redhead, Lady Joanna West, sister of the Earl of Torrington at a reception for the Prime Minister given by her brother Richard. Donet knows this is not his first meeting with her. She is unaware of this.
Lady Joanna wants nothing to do with a marriage of convenience to a member of the ton. She is more interested in the plight of the poor and the unfair taxation of all by the English. To aid this cause she and her younger brother become involved in smuggling. Little did she know she would meet her match in the French captain who is also involved in smuggling.
Donet did not wish to find another to love after he lost his first wife to illness. He never wanted to experience love and loss again.
We are taken on an exciting action filled journey from England to France. The story is rich in the history of the time, letting you feel as if you are there as Donet and Lady Joanna fall in love.
This is a heartwarming love story. I enjoyed it very much.
I am looking forward to the third in the Trilogy, the story of Zoe Donet.
Regan has a Pinterest page for every book. It gives you a look into her research and a feeling of the time period. I appreciate the time and effort she puts into each book.
I was given a complimentary copy
Donet Trilogy #2
By Regan Walker
In this story we are taken back to 1784, when the French and English were suffering from the cost of the American war. Unrest of the people, due to high taxation caused many to be involved in smuggling.
This is how the love story begins. Jean Donet, comte de Saintonge and captain of la Reine Noire, former pirate and Privateer, meets the bold redhead, Lady Joanna West, sister of the Earl of Torrington at a reception for the Prime Minister given by her brother Richard. Donet knows this is not his first meeting with her. She is unaware of this.
Lady Joanna wants nothing to do with a marriage of convenience to a member of the ton. She is more interested in the plight of the poor and the unfair taxation of all by the English. To aid this cause she and her younger brother become involved in smuggling. Little did she know she would meet her match in the French captain who is also involved in smuggling.
Donet did not wish to find another to love after he lost his first wife to illness. He never wanted to experience love and loss again.
We are taken on an exciting action filled journey from England to France. The story is rich in the history of the time, letting you feel as if you are there as Donet and Lady Joanna fall in love.
This is a heartwarming love story. I enjoyed it very much.
I am looking forward to the third in the Trilogy, the story of Zoe Donet.
Regan has a Pinterest page for every book. It gives you a look into her research and a feeling of the time period. I appreciate the time and effort she puts into each book.
I was given a complimentary copy
October 1, 2018
I loved this second book in the Donet Trilogy just as much as the first one! My heart went out to Jean and everything he has endured in his life and the political upheaval that takes place. Such a dangerous time to live in! Very well written book and now look forward to reading more Regan Walker books:)
September 9, 2017
4.5/5.0
Ms. Walker is a master storyteller!
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Ms. Walker is a master storyteller!
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
July 23, 2017
Unlike many of women of the ton, Lady Joanna West has vowed to never marry, even though at twenty-five, her brother the earl believes it’s high time she wed. She also refuses to stand idly by why the villagers of Chichester starve from lack of work and the inability to pay high taxes. To that end she begins delivering food baskets to the poor, but now oversees the delivery of smuggled tea and brandy and makes sure the goods reach their proper destinations without alerting the revenue agents. One night in April 1784, her men row her out to meet a new partner, a stranger who could be a free trader or a spy.
Captain Jean Donet silently watches from the shadows as his new partner inspects the merchandise and haggles with his quartermaster. Before the Englishman departs, Jean suspects the stranger is actually a woman in disguise. But that possibility intrigues, rather than discourages him, for he, too, is more than he appears to be. Disowned by his father, he is a French spy, was a privateer for Benjamin Franklin during the American Revolution, and is now a successful smuggler with a fleet of vessels. He is also the comte de Saintonge, a title inherited after the untimely death of his father and older brother. He must finally return to the estate he left years ago, but first he must attend several events leading up to the christening of his new grandson.
Since her brother has yet to marry, Joanna serves as his hostess at a party honoring the new prime minister, who is determined to put an end to the smuggling that plagues England. Two other gentlemen in attendance also catch her attention, but for different reasons. One commands the sloop of war responsible for hunting down vessels engaged in this illegal trade. The other is a forty-year-old Frenchman who seems taken with her younger sister, who has just come of age. Joanna will do whatever is necessary to keep Tillie from becoming a sacrificial lamb.
While in London for the christening, Joanna accompanies a friend to the Old Bailey to attend a trial. But the experience leaves her shaken when the smuggler is found guilty and sentenced to hang. Her chosen trade has become too dangerous, so after one last run, she will find another way to help the villagers. Just as she is about to disembark from her partner’s brig, the revenue ship announces her arrival by opening fire and Joanna is badly wounded.
Jean immediately sets sail and, after successfully eluding his pursuers, attends his beautiful guest. Her best chance of survival is to get her as quickly as possible to a French doctor he trusts. But a storm brews in France. King Louis and Queen Marie Antoinette continue to spend money, even though the country is badly in debt. The incident that killed his family may not have been accidental. And his mind wages war with his heart over his growing attraction for Joanna.
Echo in the Wind is the second book in the Donet Trilogy and takes place five years before the storming of the Bastille and the start of the French Revolution. As in the previous title, To Tame the Wind, Walker opens with a list of “Characters of Note” so readers can acquaint themselves with who’s who before the story begins. Aside from Chichester and London, she whisks readers back to eighteenth-century Lorient, Saintonge, and Paris to experience firsthand the discontent of the people and the callow disregard of the nobility. Walker also includes an author’s note where she discusses the history behind the novel.
Chapter one places readers in the midst of the action and shows great promise of suspense, but the pace slows thereafter and doesn’t pick up again until after page 100. Those pages focus more on character development, with only minor hints of possible adventure and misadventure. Yet stalwart readers who brave the trials and tribulations that they and the characters experience will be richly rewarded with a wonderful love story.
Captain Jean Donet silently watches from the shadows as his new partner inspects the merchandise and haggles with his quartermaster. Before the Englishman departs, Jean suspects the stranger is actually a woman in disguise. But that possibility intrigues, rather than discourages him, for he, too, is more than he appears to be. Disowned by his father, he is a French spy, was a privateer for Benjamin Franklin during the American Revolution, and is now a successful smuggler with a fleet of vessels. He is also the comte de Saintonge, a title inherited after the untimely death of his father and older brother. He must finally return to the estate he left years ago, but first he must attend several events leading up to the christening of his new grandson.
Since her brother has yet to marry, Joanna serves as his hostess at a party honoring the new prime minister, who is determined to put an end to the smuggling that plagues England. Two other gentlemen in attendance also catch her attention, but for different reasons. One commands the sloop of war responsible for hunting down vessels engaged in this illegal trade. The other is a forty-year-old Frenchman who seems taken with her younger sister, who has just come of age. Joanna will do whatever is necessary to keep Tillie from becoming a sacrificial lamb.
While in London for the christening, Joanna accompanies a friend to the Old Bailey to attend a trial. But the experience leaves her shaken when the smuggler is found guilty and sentenced to hang. Her chosen trade has become too dangerous, so after one last run, she will find another way to help the villagers. Just as she is about to disembark from her partner’s brig, the revenue ship announces her arrival by opening fire and Joanna is badly wounded.
Jean immediately sets sail and, after successfully eluding his pursuers, attends his beautiful guest. Her best chance of survival is to get her as quickly as possible to a French doctor he trusts. But a storm brews in France. King Louis and Queen Marie Antoinette continue to spend money, even though the country is badly in debt. The incident that killed his family may not have been accidental. And his mind wages war with his heart over his growing attraction for Joanna.
Echo in the Wind is the second book in the Donet Trilogy and takes place five years before the storming of the Bastille and the start of the French Revolution. As in the previous title, To Tame the Wind, Walker opens with a list of “Characters of Note” so readers can acquaint themselves with who’s who before the story begins. Aside from Chichester and London, she whisks readers back to eighteenth-century Lorient, Saintonge, and Paris to experience firsthand the discontent of the people and the callow disregard of the nobility. Walker also includes an author’s note where she discusses the history behind the novel.
Chapter one places readers in the midst of the action and shows great promise of suspense, but the pace slows thereafter and doesn’t pick up again until after page 100. Those pages focus more on character development, with only minor hints of possible adventure and misadventure. Yet stalwart readers who brave the trials and tribulations that they and the characters experience will be richly rewarded with a wonderful love story.
June 15, 2017
Enjoy the journey of a comte/smuggler who dares to love again
Lady Joanna meets a handsome sea captain, who is well respected among the peerage, but who also lives a double life, like Joanna. Unbeknownst to her, he is none other than the captain who owns the French brig who delivers the goods that Joanna’s small village smuggling crew receive.
Jean Donet, having been his own master for years, owning three ships and three homes, is drawn to help the downtrodden. He’s had dreams, forced to give up. His love of music and picking up the violin calms his spirit. When life closes door, he purses another.
The sea is Jean’s life, now. He’s more comfortable on sea than land. He is a man of many facets, with a spirit of adventure and more handsome than anyone should be allowed to be. He is a comte and smuggler. He also never wants to love again, for then he would be vulnerable.
Lady Joanna West, a charming and proper woman of English Society, sister to Earl of Torrington, is a woman with a conscious and a spirit which enjoys living on the edge. The English Society is a bore to her as well as the men who have approached her for marriage.
“The Harrows is more than adequate for me. Besides, I consider marriage a dull affair punctuated by moments of misery. I would avoid it, perhaps forever.”
Not only does she see the poverty around her in Chichester, she, with her decided manner to help those less fortunate, helps the smugglers in her village so prices for tea and brandy can be purchased by the poor and less fortunate. By smuggling tea and brandy, she is well-beloved by the village folk. Her younger brother Freddie is included in her adventures. The elder, Richard, would be outraged to hear what is going on right under his nose.
When did Jean start to have feelings for Joanna? He recognizes the ‘lad’ who leads the group of smugglers to be the charming sister of the earl. He is intrigued with a woman who need not smuggle, but doing just that, puts her life in danger, for if she were caught, she would be punished by hanging.
He finds she has him feel feelings he thought never to have again. He had loved his dead wife Ariane more than he thought possible. There couldn’t be another. He could not love and lose again. Yet, he is drawn to Joanna. He feels the need to protect her, yet fights his attraction to her.
All is well with the smuggling operations, until the coast guards spy the transfer of goods from the French ship, la Reine Noire. And where is the fine lady? She’s on the French ship which needs to make a hasty retreat so not to be caught.
In the heat of a sea battle where Joanna is on deck of la Reine Noire, the unthinkable happens.
Excerpt:
He turned to be certain his passenger had gone below. To his horror, just short of the aft hatch, the bos’n stood looking down at Lady Joanna lying unconscious on the deck. Her hat had come off, leaving her beautiful auburn hair splayed out around her. Dark red blood seeped from her belly and flowed to the wooden planks.
“Seigneur Dieu!” he cried and rushed to her, crouching down to sweep her into his arms. He shouted to Emile, “The ship is yours. Make for Lorient!”
********
Jean’s strength makes Joanna feel safe, protected. Events put her in a compromised position. She is drawn to him like a bee to pollen. Jean, with his French manner and suave bearing is more than she can resist. But to what end? Is that her end, a mistress to a Frenchman?
The author brings us closer to the captain, showing us by events what type of person he is. I enjoyed the spattering of French throughout the book, Jean’s determination to not love, the ship cat Benjamin Franklin, Jean’s close friendship with the quartermaster, and above all the heroine who reaches beyond what society demands of her to find what she needs to be fulfilled.
Lady Joanna meets a handsome sea captain, who is well respected among the peerage, but who also lives a double life, like Joanna. Unbeknownst to her, he is none other than the captain who owns the French brig who delivers the goods that Joanna’s small village smuggling crew receive.
Jean Donet, having been his own master for years, owning three ships and three homes, is drawn to help the downtrodden. He’s had dreams, forced to give up. His love of music and picking up the violin calms his spirit. When life closes door, he purses another.
The sea is Jean’s life, now. He’s more comfortable on sea than land. He is a man of many facets, with a spirit of adventure and more handsome than anyone should be allowed to be. He is a comte and smuggler. He also never wants to love again, for then he would be vulnerable.
Lady Joanna West, a charming and proper woman of English Society, sister to Earl of Torrington, is a woman with a conscious and a spirit which enjoys living on the edge. The English Society is a bore to her as well as the men who have approached her for marriage.
“The Harrows is more than adequate for me. Besides, I consider marriage a dull affair punctuated by moments of misery. I would avoid it, perhaps forever.”
Not only does she see the poverty around her in Chichester, she, with her decided manner to help those less fortunate, helps the smugglers in her village so prices for tea and brandy can be purchased by the poor and less fortunate. By smuggling tea and brandy, she is well-beloved by the village folk. Her younger brother Freddie is included in her adventures. The elder, Richard, would be outraged to hear what is going on right under his nose.
When did Jean start to have feelings for Joanna? He recognizes the ‘lad’ who leads the group of smugglers to be the charming sister of the earl. He is intrigued with a woman who need not smuggle, but doing just that, puts her life in danger, for if she were caught, she would be punished by hanging.
He finds she has him feel feelings he thought never to have again. He had loved his dead wife Ariane more than he thought possible. There couldn’t be another. He could not love and lose again. Yet, he is drawn to Joanna. He feels the need to protect her, yet fights his attraction to her.
All is well with the smuggling operations, until the coast guards spy the transfer of goods from the French ship, la Reine Noire. And where is the fine lady? She’s on the French ship which needs to make a hasty retreat so not to be caught.
In the heat of a sea battle where Joanna is on deck of la Reine Noire, the unthinkable happens.
Excerpt:
He turned to be certain his passenger had gone below. To his horror, just short of the aft hatch, the bos’n stood looking down at Lady Joanna lying unconscious on the deck. Her hat had come off, leaving her beautiful auburn hair splayed out around her. Dark red blood seeped from her belly and flowed to the wooden planks.
“Seigneur Dieu!” he cried and rushed to her, crouching down to sweep her into his arms. He shouted to Emile, “The ship is yours. Make for Lorient!”
********
Jean’s strength makes Joanna feel safe, protected. Events put her in a compromised position. She is drawn to him like a bee to pollen. Jean, with his French manner and suave bearing is more than she can resist. But to what end? Is that her end, a mistress to a Frenchman?
The author brings us closer to the captain, showing us by events what type of person he is. I enjoyed the spattering of French throughout the book, Jean’s determination to not love, the ship cat Benjamin Franklin, Jean’s close friendship with the quartermaster, and above all the heroine who reaches beyond what society demands of her to find what she needs to be fulfilled.
May 24, 2017
Regan Walker has once again written a tale that pulls you in from the very beginning. As the story begins, we immediately discover that Lady Joanna West is more than just a Lady of the ton. She is a strong and independent woman whose heart aches for the poor, and proves she will do just about anything to see to their well-being.
Lady Joanna and her brother, Richard, the Earl of Torrington, are hosting a party for the new English Prime Minister in their home, when Jean Donet makes his entrance. Joanna is immediately intrigued, as their paths have crossed before, although unbeknownst to him. Rumors of Donet’s past pique her interest even more. Richard has been trying to convince Joanna to travel to London with the family for her little sister’s first season, but she truly had no interest, until Jean Donet asked “Will you be coming to London, Lady Joanna:’. Little did she know that her simple answer of “why, yes”would have a profound effect on her future.
Echo in the Wind is another wonderfully written tale by Regan Walker. Joanna is such a great character. Her big heart, as well as her independent streak, draws you in immediately. However, it is Jean Donet, whom we met in To Tame the Wind, that will grab your heart and not let go. Having lost his first wife years before, he never thought, or even dreamed, that he’d be inclined to love again. His back story is heartbreaking, but it is his strong sense of honor and self that will endear him to all who read. Even though he was cast out by an overbearing father in his youth, he steps up to do what is right by his remaining family after his father and brother are killed in what seemed to be an accident. With tensions rising in France, unforeseen danger lurks in his home country as he tries to unravel not only what happened to his father and brother, but his growing feelings for Lady Joanna. “Like an echo in the wind, love had come to him a second time and he was more than grateful it had”.
Once again, no one, in my humble opinion, writes this genre like Regan Walker. You are always pulled into her tales immediately. You can feel the bumps as the carriage passes over the cobblestone streets and smell the salty sea air as the ship sails to each destination. Walker’s world building is second to none as you are swept from one beautiful and intriguing location to another. And, as always, if you’re a fan of this genre, you will never go wrong with reading any of Ms. Walker’s stories. I always think that once I finish one of her books that it’s my favorite…..until I read the next. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very, very well done!
Lady Joanna and her brother, Richard, the Earl of Torrington, are hosting a party for the new English Prime Minister in their home, when Jean Donet makes his entrance. Joanna is immediately intrigued, as their paths have crossed before, although unbeknownst to him. Rumors of Donet’s past pique her interest even more. Richard has been trying to convince Joanna to travel to London with the family for her little sister’s first season, but she truly had no interest, until Jean Donet asked “Will you be coming to London, Lady Joanna:’. Little did she know that her simple answer of “why, yes”would have a profound effect on her future.
Echo in the Wind is another wonderfully written tale by Regan Walker. Joanna is such a great character. Her big heart, as well as her independent streak, draws you in immediately. However, it is Jean Donet, whom we met in To Tame the Wind, that will grab your heart and not let go. Having lost his first wife years before, he never thought, or even dreamed, that he’d be inclined to love again. His back story is heartbreaking, but it is his strong sense of honor and self that will endear him to all who read. Even though he was cast out by an overbearing father in his youth, he steps up to do what is right by his remaining family after his father and brother are killed in what seemed to be an accident. With tensions rising in France, unforeseen danger lurks in his home country as he tries to unravel not only what happened to his father and brother, but his growing feelings for Lady Joanna. “Like an echo in the wind, love had come to him a second time and he was more than grateful it had”.
Once again, no one, in my humble opinion, writes this genre like Regan Walker. You are always pulled into her tales immediately. You can feel the bumps as the carriage passes over the cobblestone streets and smell the salty sea air as the ship sails to each destination. Walker’s world building is second to none as you are swept from one beautiful and intriguing location to another. And, as always, if you’re a fan of this genre, you will never go wrong with reading any of Ms. Walker’s stories. I always think that once I finish one of her books that it’s my favorite…..until I read the next. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very, very well done!
June 19, 2017
Echo in the Wind is book two in the Donet Trilogy. I have not read book one and I had no trouble following the plot. I would like to read book one so that I can gain some background information on Jean Donet.
Jean Donet, a french man, has been a smuggler, privateer, merchant, spy, and a nobleman. He and his crew smuggle products on the coast of England. Lady Joanna West is the sister of the Earl but feels great concern for the poor people in her village. She smuggles products and uses the profits to help the poor. She meets Jean when she boards his ship to inspect the merchandise she is purchasing. Her disguise does not fool Jean, he knows she is a woman. He remains in the dark so she does not know the identity of the captain of the ship.
Lady Joanna is beautiful. She has had many pursuers but none have captured her interest. Jean is a widower that guards his heart out of fear. When Jean meets Lady Joanna at a noble event he is drawn to her. She is also drawn to him. It does not take long for Jean to realize Joanna is the smuggler who was on his ship. He is curious about her. When Joanna's last smuggle attempt goes terribly wrong, she finds herself wounded and in the care of Jean on his ship. As Jean tends to her wounds, he and Joanna get to know one another and soon the two begin a physical relationship. Before long both are in love with each other but fear keeps Jean at a distance. Should he keep Joanna as his mistress or make her his wife.
Jean takes Joanna to his properties across France. Jean has become the comte de Saintonge due to the death of his father and his brother. He has also become guardian of his young niece. Jean soon loses his heart to Joanna and to his young niece but keeping them safe proves difficult.
I loved Echo in the Wind. I loved the characters and the passion that Jean and Joanna share. It held my interest. right up until the end. It was so nice to see what it would be like to be completely spoiled by a very wealthy french man. This is my first book by Walker but it will not be my last.
Jean Donet, a french man, has been a smuggler, privateer, merchant, spy, and a nobleman. He and his crew smuggle products on the coast of England. Lady Joanna West is the sister of the Earl but feels great concern for the poor people in her village. She smuggles products and uses the profits to help the poor. She meets Jean when she boards his ship to inspect the merchandise she is purchasing. Her disguise does not fool Jean, he knows she is a woman. He remains in the dark so she does not know the identity of the captain of the ship.
Lady Joanna is beautiful. She has had many pursuers but none have captured her interest. Jean is a widower that guards his heart out of fear. When Jean meets Lady Joanna at a noble event he is drawn to her. She is also drawn to him. It does not take long for Jean to realize Joanna is the smuggler who was on his ship. He is curious about her. When Joanna's last smuggle attempt goes terribly wrong, she finds herself wounded and in the care of Jean on his ship. As Jean tends to her wounds, he and Joanna get to know one another and soon the two begin a physical relationship. Before long both are in love with each other but fear keeps Jean at a distance. Should he keep Joanna as his mistress or make her his wife.
Jean takes Joanna to his properties across France. Jean has become the comte de Saintonge due to the death of his father and his brother. He has also become guardian of his young niece. Jean soon loses his heart to Joanna and to his young niece but keeping them safe proves difficult.
I loved Echo in the Wind. I loved the characters and the passion that Jean and Joanna share. It held my interest. right up until the end. It was so nice to see what it would be like to be completely spoiled by a very wealthy french man. This is my first book by Walker but it will not be my last.
May 24, 2017
Book #2 of a trilogy, Echo in the wind is the fast paced story that takes place in 1784 after the war with America when both the English and French are suffering economically from the effects. Tea, wine and cognac are out of reach for the average person and considered luxuries for the wealthy only. In that time smuggling was a way for a man, or a woman, if she dare, to make their fortunes. Lady Joanna West already has luxury and money but wants to help the poor of her country and turns to smuggling as a means to do just that. She is not interested in life in the ton much less a marriage though she has many suitors. Jean Donet was disowned by his father the comte de Saintonge for marry a woman he did not approve of and so Jean turns to his other love, the sea as a Privateer, pirate and Captain of his own ship. There he buries himself in gaining his own money while mourning the love of his life who he lost to illness. Joanna and Jean meet at a ball thrown by Joanna's brother. She is not aware that they have met before, but Jean is. He is not interested in falling in love again, both are very much involved in their smuggling activities. The characters in this book are well developed, full, and very much draw you into their lives and circumstances as well as the times in which they are living and the dangers they face in the double lives they are leading and what will happen to their hearts. Joanna is injured and forced to flee for her life while smuggling. This is a fast paced book with a solid plot and characters and it's quite obvious the author, Regal Walker has done great research to bring us another of her fact mixed with fiction stories that you don't want to put down and can't wait for the next book of the trilogy. I highly recommend it and will probably re-read it at some point.
June 10, 2017
A MESMERIZING OUTSTANDING ONE SITTING READ
This series, of which Echo in the Wind is book 2, is a total engrossingly spell binding series! I anxiously await the rest of the series. Echo in the Wind includes love, romance, action, and sensuality as well as everything and every emotion a reader could ask for. This is a page turning keeper shelf read and reread winner. The characters were well developed and the story unfolds in such a way the reader can close their eyes and go back in time to this historical era, become part of the characters, and feel the gripping tale unfold.
I was transfixed to the story from the first page. Regan Walker has the flawless talent to allow the reader from the first page to become drawn into the story and hold them there until the last paragraph is read. Excellently written, the reader feels what the characters feel and become part of their history. I very highly recommend this book and author to anyone who loves reading historical romance. I anxiously await and mark my calendar for each new release.
1784 – England and France
Jean Donet, cast out by his father and his wife dying nearly causes him to lose his sanity. Taking to the sea to become a pirate he vows never to lose his heart to anyone ever again. To his misfortune his older brother and father are killed in a carriage accident, leaving Jean to become the titled Comte de Saintonge.
Lady Joanna West, London Society’s darling, has no interest in the ton and she doesn’t want any part of it. Wishing to help the poor she becomes involved in smuggling, no matter the risk to her life and reputation. One night her life changes as she encounters the captain of a smuggling ship. Nothing will be the same.
This series, of which Echo in the Wind is book 2, is a total engrossingly spell binding series! I anxiously await the rest of the series. Echo in the Wind includes love, romance, action, and sensuality as well as everything and every emotion a reader could ask for. This is a page turning keeper shelf read and reread winner. The characters were well developed and the story unfolds in such a way the reader can close their eyes and go back in time to this historical era, become part of the characters, and feel the gripping tale unfold.
I was transfixed to the story from the first page. Regan Walker has the flawless talent to allow the reader from the first page to become drawn into the story and hold them there until the last paragraph is read. Excellently written, the reader feels what the characters feel and become part of their history. I very highly recommend this book and author to anyone who loves reading historical romance. I anxiously await and mark my calendar for each new release.
1784 – England and France
Jean Donet, cast out by his father and his wife dying nearly causes him to lose his sanity. Taking to the sea to become a pirate he vows never to lose his heart to anyone ever again. To his misfortune his older brother and father are killed in a carriage accident, leaving Jean to become the titled Comte de Saintonge.
Lady Joanna West, London Society’s darling, has no interest in the ton and she doesn’t want any part of it. Wishing to help the poor she becomes involved in smuggling, no matter the risk to her life and reputation. One night her life changes as she encounters the captain of a smuggling ship. Nothing will be the same.
July 1, 2017
4.25 stars
Jean Donet took to the sea after being cast out by his noble father for marrying the woman he loved, he became a privateer & then a smuggler, delivering French brandy and tea to the south coast of England. As Donet’s wealth grew, so grew his fame as a daring ship’s captain, the terror of the English Channel in the American War. When his father and older brother die in a carriage accident in France, Jean becomes the Comte de Saintonge, a title he never wanted.
Lady Joanna West cares little for London Society, which considers her its darling. Marriage in the ton is either dull or disastrous with unfaithful husbands. She wants no part of it. To help the poor in Sussex, she joins in their smuggling. Now she is the master of the beach, risking her reputation and her life. One night off the coast of Bognor, Joanna encounters the menacing captain of a smuggling ship La Noire Reine, never realizing he is the mysterious Comte de Saintonge.
I found the book a little slow to begin with but the pace picked up & by the time an injured Joanna was taken to France I was gripped. The characters are well portrayed & are very likeable. I particularly liked it that Jean & Joanna were older, in fact he’d recently become a grand parent & Joanna is in her mid twenties so no simpering & coyness. The plot takes us from Sussex to London then to Brittany & Paris. The author has obviously well researched the period & the detail & use of real events only add to the book & you are given a real sense of the growing unrest in France.
I enjoyed the book & will be reading more from the author & look forward to the third part of the trilogy
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Jean Donet took to the sea after being cast out by his noble father for marrying the woman he loved, he became a privateer & then a smuggler, delivering French brandy and tea to the south coast of England. As Donet’s wealth grew, so grew his fame as a daring ship’s captain, the terror of the English Channel in the American War. When his father and older brother die in a carriage accident in France, Jean becomes the Comte de Saintonge, a title he never wanted.
Lady Joanna West cares little for London Society, which considers her its darling. Marriage in the ton is either dull or disastrous with unfaithful husbands. She wants no part of it. To help the poor in Sussex, she joins in their smuggling. Now she is the master of the beach, risking her reputation and her life. One night off the coast of Bognor, Joanna encounters the menacing captain of a smuggling ship La Noire Reine, never realizing he is the mysterious Comte de Saintonge.
I found the book a little slow to begin with but the pace picked up & by the time an injured Joanna was taken to France I was gripped. The characters are well portrayed & are very likeable. I particularly liked it that Jean & Joanna were older, in fact he’d recently become a grand parent & Joanna is in her mid twenties so no simpering & coyness. The plot takes us from Sussex to London then to Brittany & Paris. The author has obviously well researched the period & the detail & use of real events only add to the book & you are given a real sense of the growing unrest in France.
I enjoyed the book & will be reading more from the author & look forward to the third part of the trilogy
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 24, 2017
As a young man Jean Donet dared to marry the woman he loves, defying his family he ended up being disowned by his domineering father. Jean turned to smuggling to support his young family, but before he knew it the sea had become is mistress. The death of his wife almost destroyed him he’s vowed to never risk his heat and love again.
Lady Joanna West, the sister of the Earl of Torrington, cares little for London Society. She knows marriages in the ton as just business agreements and she wants no part of marring she’s more interested in helping the poor in Sussex. She and her younger brother join in the local smuggling activities risking her reputation and her life.
Lady Joanna meets the fascinating Jean Donet at a ball her brother is hosting and feels an instant attraction to him, unknown to her Jean is the French smuggler she's been dealing with. The authorities are bent on capturing all smugglers and their lives are further entwined when her fate is now in the hands of one very handsome alluring privateer captain. Jean is fascinated by the strong willed beautiful Joanna who has no trouble voicing her beliefs and opinions. Theirs’s is a love story for all time A captivating story filled with action packed adventure, romance and a passionate love story where Jean gets a second chance at love and Joanna finds a love she never dared to dream about.
I voluntarily read this ARC copy from Net Galley and this is my honest opinion and review.
Lady Joanna West, the sister of the Earl of Torrington, cares little for London Society. She knows marriages in the ton as just business agreements and she wants no part of marring she’s more interested in helping the poor in Sussex. She and her younger brother join in the local smuggling activities risking her reputation and her life.
Lady Joanna meets the fascinating Jean Donet at a ball her brother is hosting and feels an instant attraction to him, unknown to her Jean is the French smuggler she's been dealing with. The authorities are bent on capturing all smugglers and their lives are further entwined when her fate is now in the hands of one very handsome alluring privateer captain. Jean is fascinated by the strong willed beautiful Joanna who has no trouble voicing her beliefs and opinions. Theirs’s is a love story for all time A captivating story filled with action packed adventure, romance and a passionate love story where Jean gets a second chance at love and Joanna finds a love she never dared to dream about.
I voluntarily read this ARC copy from Net Galley and this is my honest opinion and review.
June 27, 2017
Love on the High Seas...
Lady Joanna West cannot abide to see the poverty around her, but instead of attending organised charity events by like-minded members of the ton, Joanna embarks on a far more dangerous pursuit to raise some money — she becomes a smuggler.
Her path crosses with the dashing French, Comte de Saintonge. What she doesn't realise is that the Comte is also the captain of one of the smuggling ships that she trades with.
The Comte de Saintonge, appears to be fearless, but that is not so. He fears to fall in love again. Can Lady Joanna help him conquer this fear?
Oh, what is not to like about this book? Set in the year 1784, Regan Walker transports her readers back to pre-revolution France in this most wonderful tale of love, honour and smuggling!
Echo in the Wind grabbed me from the very first page and did not let go of me until I had finished. I was swept away by Ms Walker's descriptive prose. The attention to historical detail in this book is outstanding. Ms Walker has brought this era to life. Kudos, Ms Walker.
I adored the characterisation of both Lady Joanne and Donet. They were both superbly well drawn and believable. As was their love story.
I really can't praise this book enough. A sublime read.
I Highly Recommend.
* I received a copy of this book from the Publishers, via Netgalley for review consideration. *
Lady Joanna West cannot abide to see the poverty around her, but instead of attending organised charity events by like-minded members of the ton, Joanna embarks on a far more dangerous pursuit to raise some money — she becomes a smuggler.
Her path crosses with the dashing French, Comte de Saintonge. What she doesn't realise is that the Comte is also the captain of one of the smuggling ships that she trades with.
The Comte de Saintonge, appears to be fearless, but that is not so. He fears to fall in love again. Can Lady Joanna help him conquer this fear?
Oh, what is not to like about this book? Set in the year 1784, Regan Walker transports her readers back to pre-revolution France in this most wonderful tale of love, honour and smuggling!
Echo in the Wind grabbed me from the very first page and did not let go of me until I had finished. I was swept away by Ms Walker's descriptive prose. The attention to historical detail in this book is outstanding. Ms Walker has brought this era to life. Kudos, Ms Walker.
I adored the characterisation of both Lady Joanne and Donet. They were both superbly well drawn and believable. As was their love story.
I really can't praise this book enough. A sublime read.
I Highly Recommend.
* I received a copy of this book from the Publishers, via Netgalley for review consideration. *
January 1, 2018
Most of the time when I read a series book, the first book in the series and the couple in that first book, remain my steadfast favorites throughout the series. This isn’t to say that I’ll not fall in love with characters in following books in the series, but the original couple normally remains my favorite. This did not happen this time. In To Tame the Wind, we met Claire and Simon, and against all odds, with him kidnapping her, I still cheered them on. They became a favorite story couple for me. With Echo in the Wind, they’ve been toppled from the pedestal that I put them on.
“Like an apparition, he was dressed all in black, his features lost in the shadows beneath his tricorne.”
I fell totally head over heels for Jean Donet, Claire’s father. This is his story, who finds love for the second time with Lady Joanna. Once again, we are treated with Ms. Walker’s writing, and the seemingly effortless way she weaves her fictional characters in with real history and real figures from our history. I almost feel like I’m going to have to take an exam when I’ve finished. After reading one of Ms. Walker’s books, I have to stop and let my brain process the story before starting a new book. This author is highly recommended, I can’t even give her enough praise to do her writing justice. Reviewed by Cyrene
“Like an apparition, he was dressed all in black, his features lost in the shadows beneath his tricorne.”
I fell totally head over heels for Jean Donet, Claire’s father. This is his story, who finds love for the second time with Lady Joanna. Once again, we are treated with Ms. Walker’s writing, and the seemingly effortless way she weaves her fictional characters in with real history and real figures from our history. I almost feel like I’m going to have to take an exam when I’ve finished. After reading one of Ms. Walker’s books, I have to stop and let my brain process the story before starting a new book. This author is highly recommended, I can’t even give her enough praise to do her writing justice. Reviewed by Cyrene
September 30, 2017
Well done!
I absolutely loved this book! Regan Walker is an artist at romance novel writing. The fact that it is done in the 'historical romance novel' genre makes it even more if a great read for me. The writing is fluid, interesting, exciting and sensual. The romance is very lifelike and tasteful as well as believable. There's no overdone angst here. I have often wondered how so many very young women ended up marrying men several years older....old enough to be their fathers...and how the women truly felt. This is great story for that. I love thus couple.
The era is the late 18th century England/France during Marie Antoinette and Louis' reign prior the the French revolution. We are shown the very large gap between the aristocracy and the peasants which gives a better understanding of the explosive political times. Walker does a good job of describing the atmosphere from both perspectives.
I truly encourage and very highly recommend this beautifully written story to readers of historical romance fiction. It's a keeper!
I absolutely loved this book! Regan Walker is an artist at romance novel writing. The fact that it is done in the 'historical romance novel' genre makes it even more if a great read for me. The writing is fluid, interesting, exciting and sensual. The romance is very lifelike and tasteful as well as believable. There's no overdone angst here. I have often wondered how so many very young women ended up marrying men several years older....old enough to be their fathers...and how the women truly felt. This is great story for that. I love thus couple.
The era is the late 18th century England/France during Marie Antoinette and Louis' reign prior the the French revolution. We are shown the very large gap between the aristocracy and the peasants which gives a better understanding of the explosive political times. Walker does a good job of describing the atmosphere from both perspectives.
I truly encourage and very highly recommend this beautifully written story to readers of historical romance fiction. It's a keeper!
June 27, 2017
Echo in the Wind was such a well-developed story with all the necessary ingredients. Ms Walker weaves historical events around a breathtaking romance, whilst managing to draw in some adventure. The story takes place in 1784 when smuggling between the French and the English was at its height, following the American war. Jean Done, comte de Saintonge and a former pirate and privateers, meets Lady Joanna West, who is involved in smuggling. She is also the sister of the Earl of Torrington who is blissfully unaware of her smuggling. Both characters are so well explored but I found that Jean Donet’s story was especially heartfelt. The chance for love again resonates through the novel and I found myself completely immersed. I look forward to the third novel in the series. You won’t be disappointed by this or the first in the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2017
I've been waiting for a story about this pirate! I encouraged Regan to flesh out this wonderful character into a new book, and she has given us one unforgettable character. Regan has taken a new slant this time on a more mature and seasoned hero and it works. Jean Donet is a complex and steamy character whose passion for Claire drives the adventurous storyline of this book. Her descriptions are lush, her writing tight. Another novel from her, rich with history and romance that is not to be missed.
May 29, 2017
Echo in the Wind
I absolutely loved it! Jean and Joanna's story was everything I expected and more. As a lover of romance and history, this book gives the reader a wonderful look at the past and a feeling of belonging. The story sucks you in and holds you. I especially loved the smuggling. Such a precious time in history.
I absolutely loved it! Jean and Joanna's story was everything I expected and more. As a lover of romance and history, this book gives the reader a wonderful look at the past and a feeling of belonging. The story sucks you in and holds you. I especially loved the smuggling. Such a precious time in history.
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