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The Beckett Files #2

A Peculiar Courtship

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Lord Jonathon Beckett's mission is retrieve Lady Hannah and place her under the protection of the Crown. But he isn't prepared for the havoc she inflicts on his world, making him question whether his duty as an agent of the Crown should always come before his heart.

Lady Hannah's father has uncovered evidence exposing a French traitor to the Crown. Willing to do anything to silence him, the traitor's primary target has become Lady Hannah. Keeping her safe means locking her away from Society, but she refuses to stand idly by, letting others put their lives on the line to protect her. Instead, she will stop at nothing to learn to defend herself, even at the risk of losing Lord Jonathon's protection, or his affections.

With a sinister scheme in play to collapse the English government from within, Lord Jonathon must protect Lady Hannah from the French spies intending to use her as a pawn in their game of treachery. But can he protect her from herself?

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2017

255 people are currently reading
333 people want to read

About the author

Laura Beers

77 books497 followers
Laura Beers is an award-winning author. She attended Brigham Young University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. She can't sing, doesn't dance and loves naps.

Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.

You can connect with Laura on Facebook, Instagram, or on her site at www.authorlaurabeers.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Katie (hiding in the pages).
3,529 reviews333 followers
February 2, 2018
I really like that this isn't your typical Regency romance. Instead of balls, social engagements, and dressing to impress the Ton, the reader is immersed in the world of spies and danger. Hannah isn't learning needlepoint--she's learning how to use weapons so that she can protect herself.

Lord Jonathon is a dashing man ordered to protect Hannah and he's also the brother of Eliza, the heroine of Book 1, Saving Shadow. I enjoyed watching how his protective nature battled with his heart, resulting in some fun romance.

Once again, as true to this series, this story has a more modern feel to it, in both dialogue and actions, but it is a fun twist on Regency times. As for me, I think I'll stick to the sharp tongues in the ballroom, rather than the sharp daggers of the secret spy world (remember, I'm a chicken).

Content: mild language; mild+ romance (talk of affairs/sleeping around, kissing); mild-moderate violence (abuse, fights, think spies)

*I received a copy, which had no affect on my thoughts and opinions, which are my own*
Profile Image for Carrie Schmidt.
Author 1 book516 followers
January 11, 2018
A Peculiar Courtship, the latest novel in The Beckett Files series, will have you smiling in no time with a plucky heroine and a dashing spy/protector. This Regency-era spy romance is full of great characters and ‘cheerful banter’, daring adventure and swoonworthy kisses.

We were teased a little bit about the missing Lady Hannah in Saving Shadow and in this book we get to see where she’s been and what she’s been doing (milking cows??? shearing sheep??? the ton would be in vapors if they knew!) Now on the run again, she must trust Lord Jonathon to protect her… except not so much. She’s not one to leave her own protection up to someone else, and so when she realizes how much Jonathon’s sister Eliza knows about weapons and defense, Hannah enlists her help. Much to Jonathon’s irritation because… hello? Doesn’t Hannah know that Regency heroes – especially the spy kind – are supposed to be … well… heroic? How is he supposed to protect her when she insists on protecting herself?

This should give you some idea of the banter potential between these two – as well as the amusement Jonathon’s position incurs from Benedict and Eliza. I grinned for the majority of the book, I must admit. It also makes for some great romantical-type moments too. That growly protectiveness. The relieved hugs. Which both set the stage nicely for … wait for it … KISSES!! Of course they have some miscommunication, and Jonathon’s pouting is not necessarily a good look on him, but I loved watching their relationship develop.

It’s also fun to revisit Benedict and Eliza, to watch them as a married couple who can’t keep their hands off each other. But also to see their compassion for Hannah and their quick affection for her. They don’t cut Jonathon a lot of slack either, which is fun to read.

Bottom Line: Instead of balls and house parties, A Peculiar Courtship instead pits Regency-era spies with murderous traitors. Dagger throwing. Longbow arrows. Swords and pistols. Two feisty women and the men who love them. The pace is solid and the action is stellar. While I still want a bit more dimension to the characters & their relationships, this is a truly delightful read from start to finish! Plus that cover is so striking!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Profile Image for Mara.
1,476 reviews113 followers
January 12, 2018
This follow-up to Saving Shadow starts shortly after Saving Shadow ends. Eliza and Benedict are recently married, Lady Hannah is missing and Lord Jonathon Beckett (Eliza's brother and also an agent for the Crown) is looking for her.

Lady Hannah's been missing for 6 weeks. She escaped from the men who tried to kidnap her, and was taken in by the Dawson family, who own a sheep farm, after she was injured when thrown from her horse. She's safe from the men looking for her, until the family goes into town to sell the wool from their sheep. It seems even dirt can't hide her beautiful porcelain complexion. Lucky for her, Jonathon Beckett has come upon the village in his search for Lady Hannah. He finds her and works with the Dawson family to whisk Hannah away to safety.

That's just the beginning of the adventures that lie ahead for Hannah and Jonathon. Keeping Hannah safe, reuniting her with her father, Lord Pembrooke, and finding evidence against the traitorous Lord Camden are just some of the things our spies need to accomplish.

I loved Lady Hannah who isn't above living on a sheep farm, wearing someone's tattered dress, helping with the chores and learning how to milk a cow. When she's brought to Eliza and Benedict's estate she wants to learn how to fence, throw a dagger, and shoot a gun so she can protect herself if it becomes necessary.

Lord Jonathon is taken in by Lady Hannah's beauty but sees that she's also beautiful on the inside. He does everything he can to protect her, but butts heads with her when she wants to learn to protect herself. He's a smart spy but doesn't seems to know much about women, so he grudgingly asking for help from his brother-in-law, Benedict, which led to a scene which made me laugh out loud. "Idiot," Benedict mumbled under his breath. "I beg your pardon?" Jonathon asked, confused. "Did you just refer to me as an idiot?" Eliza gave him a condescending smile. "I must agree with my charming husband. You are an idiot."

I liked that the rest of "the gang" from Saving Shadow are in this book too--Eliza, Benedict, and Mr. Larson. We get to meet Jonathon and Eliza's sister, Kate. Jonathon and Eliza's parents the Duke and Duchess of Remington also make an appearance, which gave me one of my favorite lines, when Eliza says to her "mother, Diana": "True, I did have an active imagination in my youth. It was far easier to pretend my mother was loving and kind than to admit she had a cold, blackened heart." Wow!!

This book has everything--spies, dagger throwing, longbows and arrows, sword fighting, traitors, kidnapping, witty banter between men and the fiery women who love them, and of course romance. Everything but the usual balls and dancing that the Regency era is known for. Did I miss the balls and dancing? No way! There was too much going on trying to prove Lord Camden was a traitorous French spy! I can't wait to read the next book in the Beckett Files.
Profile Image for Joan.
2,208 reviews
Read
January 4, 2022
A movement caught her attention. She saw a group of smelly, four-legged sheep walking in the gated pasture, forming a tight circle.

FOUR-LEGGED SHEEP????

I couldn't read on because I was laughing so much.

Seriously? What other kind of sheep are there? (and sheep don't really smell, not compared to cows etc)

DNF at 'four-legged sheep' (page 1)
Profile Image for Cathy.
1,968 reviews71 followers
December 18, 2017
After reading Saving Shadow by this author, I was super excited to read this one. And you know what, it was just as great!

I loved Lady Hannah. I was really excited to realize this book was about her, because the first book mentioned that she was missing and that was about all. I loved that she had been raised as a Lady, but when she was taken in and given protection by a family that owned a farm, she pitched right in. She even learned to milk a cow, although there was no way she could mention that to the London Ton! Hannah has a lot of pluck, she even goes out of her way to learn to protect herself and she is actually able to when it matters the most.

Then there's Lord Jonathon. He spends weeks and weeks searching for Lady Hannah. And when he finally finds her, she isn't quite what he's expecting. I liked that he had to work so hard to learn just what she needed and how to be able to help her without coming across as over protective. I loved that you see the story from his point of view as well as Hannah's, it just makes it come alive a bit more.

This one's a Regency Romance. I love that not one little scene in this one is spent in a ballroom full of the Ton. It's an adventure from start to finish and it's plot kept me very interested. This is a fun one that I didn't want to put down! I can't wait for the next book by this author!
Profile Image for Joy Novel Thoughts.
573 reviews70 followers
December 4, 2017
A Peculiar Courtship was an impeccable follow up to Saving Shadow. The love story and intense mystery was utterly fantastic. As the mystery began to unfold I was speechless at the wrongs some of the characters committed to their own family.

We met Johnaton in the first book, but he really charmed me in A Peculiar Courtship! He is a brilliant man when it comes to life as a spy and working for the crown, now when it comes to courting women, not so much, but that is probably what I adored the most about him.

Johnaton had been on the hunt for Lady Hannah since the first book, nearly six weeks, before he found her, and she was still in danger. I enjoyed watching Lady Hannah take her safety into her own hands and learn how to defend herself. It was very empowering, especially because this was not a common occurrence in the 1800's.

The world and character building in A Peculiar Courtship was very well developed. I feel as if Eliza and Benedict are people I truly know, along with the many other characters we have been introduced to up to this point.

The story arc for this book was complete, but there are bigger things in play that haven't been resolved, like shutting down Napoleon! I really don't want to go into the mystery part, as I fear I would ruin that part of the story.

If you are in search of a well thought out mystery, this series is perfect for you!
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
429 reviews24 followers
November 27, 2017
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review

This is a favorite series!!! The story counties with trying to bring down the spy in this one and it even more thrilling than the last one. I was on the edge of my seat not knowing what was going to happen or how it was going to happen. It was clear from the moment they met that they were perfect for each other. I loved seeing so many from the last one and how they all worked together. I held my breath when they were talking to his mother and when they were on the ship. There was a twist at every turn with many things. The ending was great and I can't wait for the next one!

Hannah is not a weak girl that will just sit and wait to be saved or see what happens. I loved her right away because she did what she had to and took to it like it had been her whole life. She was determined to learn to take care of herself and not be told what to do at every turn. The cover is a perfect example of her.

Jonathon was going to finish his mission, but never thought he would lose his heart in the process. I loved that he kept messing up when talking to her and that everyone could see what he couldn't. He handled everything that was thrown at him very well and stayed calm most of the time. I would not want to get on his bad side.

Profile Image for Sydney.
1,090 reviews130 followers
July 17, 2018
Author Laura Beers has written an excellent and exciting historical, regency romance, spy thriller novel that readers will absolutely not want to put down in A Peculiar Courtship. Well written and with exciting and exhilarating characters that were in her previous novel, Saving Shadow, Beers brings to life the exciting life of a spy during the regency time period and the war with Napoleon. Hidden secrets, abductions, love, this story has it all. Although this book has a bit of violence in it, the violence is not glorified or gory. Readers will not want to miss this next book in the exhilarating Beckett Files series!

Series: Beckett Files
Genre: historical, regency, romance, spy thriller
Publisher: Phase Publishing
Publication date: December 1, 2017
Number of pages: 284

Other books in the series:
1-Saving Shadow
3-To Love a Spy
4-A Tangled Ruse

A print review copy of this book was provided by the author, as well as an e-copy purchased on Amazon. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Phylis Collins.
2,857 reviews8 followers
May 27, 2023
A Peculiar Courtship.

This is such a good story full of mystery, kidnapping, wild chases, secrets revealed, strong women and dashing heroes. I could not put this story down until the end and start the next.
Profile Image for Chesney.
740 reviews
December 14, 2017
This exceeded my expectations from the beginning. This time I contacted the author to review her book due to the first of the series being so good. This is about Jonathan brother to Eliza from the first novel Shadow. He is on a mission to rescue Lady Hannah from none other than the notorious Lord Camden who happens to be evil and a brother in law. From their first encounter, the attraction to one another is there. Being the gentleman that Jonathan is and under his protection, he suppresses the attraction as well as she does. I love that Eliza and Benedict make an appearance throughout the novel. Some I didn't see that coming were throughout the novel which kept up the suspense. We are introduced to Kate who is married to evil Lord Camden. Once you are introduced to this character you will feel the same way. I hope Kate gets her story and a happily ever after. All in all, I felt the storyline was paced well and connected with the characters. I can't wait to read the next in the series. Thank you Laura for letting me read this!
Profile Image for Jen Weipert.
7 reviews1 follower
November 24, 2017
I was excited to read this book after reading Beers' debut novel- Saving Shadow. I found this book to be even better then Saving Shadow and I didn't think that would be possible. It was fast paced and kept me interested from the moment I opened up the book. I laughed out loud multiple times at Jonathon and Benedict's banter and I loved Eliza and Hannah. I found myself dreaming of the book after I finished reading it. I even read it in a day and a half because I couldn't put it down. Great job Laura Beers! I can't wait for your next one!


I was given an advance copy for my review but my thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rachel.
353 reviews40 followers
February 16, 2018
I enjoyed reading this second book in The Beckett Files series. I was looking forward to reading Lady Hannah's story and she was a delight to read about. I loved her strength of character and the fact that she's not a wimpy spoiled rich girl. She's willing to learn to take care of herself much to the chagrin of our hero, Lord Jonathon Beckett. :) I enjoyed the continuation of Eliza and Benedict's story and the whole spy story line with mystery, danger, and intrigue. This is a well written story with plenty of action to keep you turning pages and enough swoon worthy romance to warm your heart. Again, my only complaint was the same as the first book - there is some language that I don't like and just don't think is necessary.

*Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
Profile Image for Silver Petticoat.
290 reviews73 followers
July 28, 2020
Read this entire review here: A PECULIAR COURTSHIP BOOK REVIEW – AN ENGAGING ROMANTIC MYSTERY!

Review by Catherine

Overall Rating = 4; Romance Rating = 4

(I received a free copy of A Peculiar Courtship from the author, Laura Beers, to write an honest review on The Silver Petticoat Review. I was not financially compensated for this post and all opinions are my own.)

Saving Shadow fans will love the second book in The Beckett Files series. A Peculiar Courtship is engaging, romantic, and suspenseful! Author Laura Beer continues her wonderful characterization of women. In Hannah, Beers gives us a character who knows her worth despite her lack of social connections. Raised in virtual seclusion, Lady Hannah is the daughter of an English aristocrat and Spanish mother. Hannah led a very sheltered life until forced to flee from home. However, she is not the typical damsel in distress. Hannah is intelligent and strong. For all her naïveté, Hannah has moxie and I love that about her!

Jonathon is a career spy. His job comes first. That is until he meets Hannah. His protective instincts surge to the forefront. At the same time, he loses all rational thought. In fact, Jonathon seems to forget that England’s greatest spy is none other than a woman. He, more than anyone else, is fully aware of a woman’s capabilities. So, to watch him sink to the typical overbearing male is comedic. It results in some fantastic push and pull between Hannah and Jonathon. Understandably, Hannah feels frustrated. And she most certainly makes her feelings well-known. Hannah has the fiery passion of her Spanish ancestors. Thus, her temperament plays beautifully into throwing Jonathon for a loop.

Hannah and Jonathon’s verbal sparring on what makes a “proper lady” was so much fun to read! I enjoyed Jonathon’s bewilderment as he blundered through his feelings for Hannah. I also enjoyed how Hannah turned the tables by pointing to Eliza in support of her arguments to learn self-defense. There wasn’t much Jonathon could say to that!

THE MYSTERY CONTINUES IN A PECULIAR COURTSHIP

Saving Shadow laid the groundwork for a French conspiracy threatening England. That conspiracy continues in A Peculiar Courtship. To avoid spoilers, I won’t say too much. Beers continues to pull from the darker side of humanity. The villain is violent, especially towards women. He is truly despicable. Beers does an excellent job developing a mostly unseen character. Further, the contrast between the villain and our heroes is wonderful. Yes, I know, this is vague. But trust me, it will all make sense when you read the book! For fans of Eliza and Benedict (me!), they’re back! Moreover, they are not there to just fill gaps. They are an integral part of Hannah and Jonathon’s story. They have a purpose and connect the two stories together.

OVERALL THOUGHTS ON A PECULIAR COURTSHIP

I had a few minor gripes after reading A Peculiar Courtship. Word choice was one. For example, using “lewd” to describe Jonathon’s romantic desire for Hannah. Even considering the time period, I didn’t understand the word choice. Why was Jonathon’s desire for Hannah crude and offensive? Especially since it’s clear Hannah enjoys Jonathon’s ardor. “Shocking” (in a good way!) perhaps, but offensive? That stuck with me. Particularly because “lewd” appears again to describe the villain. Also, there were some characters that were too cliché for me. It made them flat and uninteresting. Still, this did not detract from the overall story. Especially not the lovely, swoon-worthy romantic moments. For the record, Jonathon (despite his idiotic tendencies!) was far more swoon-worthy than Benedict! Yes, I went there!

A Peculiar Courtship is a charming read! I love the extra mettle Beers gives her female characters to include minor characters (Lucy!!). The story flows effortlessly between the romance and mystery. The conspiracy has more detail and intricacy. As a result, it ends with a perfect set-up for the third installment. I look forward to what comes next for the Beckett family!

Read this entire review and others (especially if you love old-fashioned chivalrous romance) at: THE SILVER PETTICOAT REVIEW
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,476 reviews37 followers
January 30, 2018
Johnathan Beckett is on a mission as an agent of the Crown. The mission is to save Lady Hannah who has been missing since an attempted abduction. Lady Hannah's father holds sensitive information about a traitor to the Crown and her life is now in danger because of it. Lady Hannah finds refuge on a country farm where Johnathan finally finds her; but Hannah's abductors are not far behind. While on the run, Johnathan and Hannah act as husband and wife so Hannah may stay under his protection. When Johnathan and Hannah reach safety at his sister, Eliza's estate, Johnathan and Hannah's feelings for one another grow; however, Johnathan's attitude toward Hannah changes. Johnathan would now like Hannah to act as a lady and Hannah would like to learn to defend herself as Eliza does. Unfortunately, before Johnathan and Hannah can sort things out, trouble catches up to them and a conspiracy unravels.

A Peculiar Courtship continues with Johnathan Beckett's story as it left off in Saving Shadow. However, you do not have to read Saving Shadow first in order to enjoy A Peculiar Courtship. I enjoyed getting to know Hannah and loved that there was yet another strong female character in the story. I liked that Hannah was a quick thinker, able to outrun her attackers for at least a little while, she was grateful and gracious to the family that saved her, even if it meant working on a farm and she was able to mold herself to be useful in a variety of situations. I also got to learn more about Johnathan in this installment. He is, as I expected, an excellent agent of the Crown, but surprised me with his treatment of Hannah. Johnathan's overprotective nature almost ruins Hannah's perception of him. As in Saving Shadow, the characters are all very well developed and I am happy to see Eliza and Benedict as a couple. At first, the action and suspense all seemed to be concentrated at the beginning of the book, although, underneath the surface a bigger conspiracy is brewing that could affect Parliament and will need several agents of the Crown, including Shadow, in order to bring down French traitors. With many well crafted spy elements, a sweet love story and plenty of fierce female characters, A Peculiar Courtship is a wonderful addition the The Beckett Files and I can't wait to see what's next.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 2 books127 followers
April 18, 2018
A Peculiar Courtship is the second book in The Beckett Files series. I read the first book Saving Shadow and enjoyed it. These books are Regency spy romances and they are fun. In this second instalment, we follow the romance of Jonathon and Hannah. Jonathon is the brother of Elizabeth (the notorious spy Shadow) the main character in the first book, who is also part of this story. So although A Peculiar Courtship is a stand-alone novel, I enjoyed having read the first book that gave me a background into the secondary characters.

Hannah becomes the target when a traitor to the crown wants to stop her father from exposing him. Jonathon is assigned to find her when she disappears and to keep her safe when he finds her. But Hannah is not a typical lady of high society and she wants to learn to defend herself. Although Jonathon has a sister who is fiercely independent he is stubborn to accept this in Hannah as he falls for her. It was comical as he commits blunders in his attempt to understand her and court her.

I enjoyed this clean romance and the cast of characters that I grew fond of in the first book. This was a quick enjoyable read with a little less action than the first book, and what seemed to me more romance. The ending was open when it came to the plot thread as we continue to see that the scheme to take down the English government from within has not been resolved. I suspect that we will see more of that in the third instalment To Love a Spy which I look forward to reading soon.

The characters in the 3rd novel were introduced in this book and I am eager to read their story. If you like books in a series and especially Regency historical romance novels, these are fun, adventurous tales to escape with.

Disclosure: Thanks to the author for sending me a review copy. I was not told how to rate or review this product. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Donna Weaver.
Author 89 books459 followers
February 5, 2018
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Lord Jonathon Beckett's mission is simple: retrieve Lady Hannah and place her under the protection of the Crown. But he isn't prepared for the havoc she inflicts on his world, making him question whether his duty as an agent of the Crown should always come before his heart.

Lady Hannah's father has uncovered evidence exposing a French traitor to the Crown. Willing to do anything to silence him, the traitor's primary target has become Lady Hannah. Keeping her safe means locking her away from Society, but she refuses to stand idly by, letting others put their lives on the line to protect her. Instead, she will stop at nothing to learn to defend herself, even at the risk of losing Lord Jonathon's protection, or his affections.

With a sinister scheme in play to collapse the English government from within, Lord Jonathon must protect Lady Hannah from the French spies intending to use her as a pawn in their game of treachery. But can he protect her from herself?

MY TAKE
This was a fun romance, different from traditional romances and included heroines with some skills which I loved. Jonathan and Hannah are a fun couple. In some ways, he reminded me a little of Edward Cullen with his overprotectiveness, though Hannah stood her ground better than Bella did and didn't play the passive/aggressive game.

There's plenty of intrigue to go with the romance. I will definitely be looking for the first book, which is Jonathan's sister's story.

4 1/2 stars
845 reviews
February 25, 2019
#2 ‘A Peculiar Courtship’ was very good. There is so much I like about Laura Beers’ spy stories. I read this one right after finishing #1, ‘Saving Shadow’ and I was not disappointed. I’m give this one 4 stars because I found the whole web of characters, relationships, and problems just a bit confusing at times. I must add though, I do love the way author Laura Beers handles a Regency romance, and this one was great!

‘Courtship’ takes off where the first one ended, with Eliza’s brother, Jonathan on his assigned quest to find Lady Hannah, who is the target of a notorious French traitor because of documents her father has. The British government is being infiltrated by French loyalists and the web is clearly dangerous.

It is spy Jonathan Beckett who is responsible for Hannah’s protection and safe delivery. Surprising to Jonathan, Lady Hannah is feisty enough to keep him on his toes and determined to learn some of those spy defenses she so admires in the Becket family. Hannah, is surprised herself to be curiously drawn to the handsome spy and his life of intrigue and danger.

I am loving this series! Fortunately for me, the week will bring many days of pouring rain, (which our area desperately needs) few responsibilities, and a toasty warm fire to read by. So glad to have the sequels nearby to grab when I finish another!
Profile Image for Andrea.
1,268 reviews44 followers
February 26, 2018
I enjoyed the first book in The Beckett Files series and was excited for the opportunity to read A Peculiar Courtship. I'm not sure why, but I was somewhat hesitant to start this book when it came. Maybe the cover didn't call to me. Anyway, whatever the reason, when I did start I was drawn in by Hannah's situation. There were some exciting and suspenseful times.

The first part of the book was fairly intense with Hannah's rescue. Then there was a lull for quite awhile that mostly focused on Hannah and Jonathon falling for each other and then miscommunicating so that they didn't know where each other stood (this happened more than once). It took me quite awhile to get through this portion of the story, but things picked up again near the end as the evidence was found to incriminate and catch the bad guy.

There's a handful of swearing throughout the book (which is always a turn off to me) that didn't fit the time period. I think that was perhaps my hangup with the book. It didn't consistently feel like a Regency romance. Some aspects or mannerisms just felt too modern.

In addition to the profanity, there is passionate kissing and violence.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

2.5 stars
Profile Image for Charissa.
Author 19 books81 followers
December 10, 2017
This story features Lord Jonathan Beckett, Eliza’s brother from book 1. He has been tasked to find Lady Hannah and bring her to safekeeping for the crown since sinister elements are out to get her because of secret plans her father holds. Hannah has been running for her life ever since her steward turned on her, but when she and Jonathon finally meet, they are both attracted to each other (no duh there. It’s a romance first and foremost, right?). This book has great characters and fun spy plot and intrigue, lots of action, and good pacing. This author writes fun books. I enjoy them a lot. If you are into the snobbery of proper Regency romance books, this might not be for you since she foists some of today’s elements onto the characters, but if you want pure entertainment, grab a copy and read it. It’s a super fun ride. I’m excited to read the last book in this series, as I’m guessing it might be about Adrien (Hawk)…at least I’m crossing my fingers that it is him and Eliza’s sister that will be the focus next. ***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Rachel.
1,127 reviews
December 20, 2017
4 1/2 stars

Reviewed for www.compassbookratings.com

Overall Review:
Action, intrigue, and danger abound in A Peculiar Courtship, the second book in the Beckett Files series. Written by Laura Beers, this Regency Spy Romance starts with a bang and races through an enthralling and entertaining plot. Readers will be delighted to find the same beloved characters from the book's predecessor, Saving Shadow. This story focuses on Eliza's brother, secret agent Jonathon. Good-natured Lady Hannah is introduced as the novel's heroine and Jonathon's potential love interest. Beers shines in her character development and the scenes of sweet romance between Jonathon and Hannah are sure to be crowd-pleasers. While A Peculiar Courtship makes several references to the first book in the series, it can be enjoyed without reading the other. With compelling mysteries, fast-paced adventure, and a satisfying ending, A Peculiar Courtship is highly recommended!

Review of an Advance Reader Copy

For full content analysis, go to www.compassbookratings.com
Profile Image for Toni.
265 reviews8 followers
August 4, 2020
Again this book was controversial for me - you have the sweet love story and the coldblooded murders wrapped up in one sometimes fantastical tale. Plots, spies, infiltrated agents... If it wasn't for all the killing, I would have love it. The beginning was very engaging, but then came love at first site and I'm not such a huge fan of that. Happily Hanna and Jonathon had to overcome some issues and grow in their views before they could be together. I really, really hope the third book in the series will be a charm.
This is book 2 in the series, but I think it could also be read as a stand alone, since the author attempts to explain previous events.
Narrative: 3rd person following Hanna and Jonathon (occasionally Eliza)
Religion: none
Sensuality: mild romance - overall clean, but some making out
Other: murders (happily not described in detail), kidnapping, talk of infidelity and debauchery
1,597 reviews
May 31, 2018
This book was really good! I loved the suspense mixed in with regency romance, and I felt that it is a good sequel to the first book. Eliza and Benedict from the first book are also in this one, and it was fun to see the continuation of their relationship!

Hannah and Jonathon are a sweet couple, and I enjoyed seeing them work through several misunderstandings. I wanted to whack Jonathon a few times when he kept saying the wrong thing to Hannah, but it also made me laugh because I know a guy who does the same thing. So it was definitely realistic for a guy to misunderstand women so much, and I loved seeing Hannah stand up for herself.

There are a few swear words scattered throughout the book, but the romance is clean.

This is a fun book, and I recommend it for anyone who loves a clean regency romance!

*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Profile Image for Susan Lodge.
Author 7 books30 followers
April 17, 2018

Only recently discovered the Beckett stories and will certainly be reading the others in the series. A lovely mixture of romance and intrigue. The heroine Lady Hannah, manages to retain her dignity whilst undergoing some terrifying events on her flight from danger. Crown agent, Lord Jonathon, has his work cut out, when he is tasked with the mission of protecting Hannah from the French spies, who are determined to murder her.
Hannah might be a damsel in distress, but she is neither helpless or fragile. As the story unfolds the suspense increases, as does the delightful interplay between the strong and colourful hero and heroine. The secondary, characters especially Eliza, are truly cutting edge. Not your usual Regency cast which makes it a refreshing, delightful read.
Profile Image for Crudelise.
483 reviews4 followers
December 27, 2021
i think im going to review that in detail when i have binged the whole series...


Soo I now binged the whole series as far as it exists (hopefully we will hear Miss Colette's story... and this is not the end...)

I really loved this series... I usally tend to read more the classical regency romance books but I couldnt stop reading here. I loved Laura Beers writing style which was amazing, I loved how she was able to wave the spy story and the romance story elements together and create one , no several facinating books. I also adored all the side characters which we could mostly revisit in later books (where they were the main leads) and which all were absolutely incredibly well developped... You could really feel the different vibes of the characters flowing off the pages. I also loved the bromance which developped as the series got along...

This book A Peculiar Courtship was amazing couldnt wait to hear Jonathon's story...
Profile Image for Megan | A Page to Turn.
662 reviews22 followers
January 3, 2018
I gave this book a solid FOUR stars! 

I was most excited to realize that this book was about Lady Hannah - in Saving Shadow she was mentioned basically in passing (she was missing), and I definitely wanted to know more. I was glad to find that the author gave the readers this book. Lord Jonathan is the brother of Eliza, from book one as well. 

This story is a one of love and mystery - Lord Jonathan set out on a rescue mission and the attraction they have for each other is inevitable and palpable. They both try their best to suppress it, but it's just not that easy. 

This book literally has it all - action, adventure, mystery, and of course, the coveted romance! 
Profile Image for Christina.
803 reviews34 followers
July 6, 2018
Spies in Recency Era

I loved the elements of danger, intrigue, and secret spies woven throughout this recency romance! I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, Saving Shadow, so was anxious to read this one.

I liked our two main characters, Hannah and Jonathon. Although each is quickly attracted to the other, their relationship takes some effort and understanding. Getting to see past and new characters was exactly what I wanted, and enhanced the story wonderfully.

A great clean romance, and I am excited to read more in the series!
Profile Image for Amber.
546 reviews
August 1, 2022
Disappointed

I really enjoyed the first book in the series. This one I found unconvincing. Jonathan is furious with Benedict in book one because he insults Lady Eliza by assuming she is incapable of being an agent because she is a woman. In book two, Jonathan spends much of the time insinuating that lady Hannah is an incapable female. I found it inconsistent with the character he showed in book one. The love story between the H and h wasn't convincing for me. I didn't feel invested in their relationship. I read to 70% then decided to move on.
Profile Image for Ollie.
125 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2023
Fantastic!

This book was everything I hoped it would be! It is important to read this book after "Saving Shadow"!
Of the two this book is my favorite, but I love that the characters from the first book show back up in the second and play prominent roles. I loved these repeat characters even more. The second book! Lots of adventure, awkward moment, laugh out loud banter, and of course a damsel in distress is saved, and a hero finds what he really needs! Looking forward to the rest of the series!
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