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Lady Wynwood’s Spies #3
Aggressor
Part three in a Christian Regency Romantic Adventure epic serial novel with a supernatural twist
One man faces death
With the help of his team, Mr. Michael Coulson-Jones has overcome the deadly Root elixir that turned him into a monster. But now that they know more about the deadly potion, he is faced with an inevitable truth—unless he agrees to the risk of taking more, he will eventually die.
One man faces theft
In the meantime, a beautiful, infamous French spy and her group of thugs have landed on English soil, intent on stealing the mysterious plant that Apothecary Jack uses to control his underworld empire. They play a deadly game of hide-and-seek with Michael’s team amidst the rookeries of London.
One man faces rage
Then one of the team is afflicted by a savage, insane rage after exposure to the strange pollen of Jack’s plants. The team must not only battle the French spies and Apothecary Jack, but also a sickness of the mind tormenting one of their own.
PLEASE NOTE: Like the novels published in Jane Austen’s time, this is a novel in multiple parts. Each volume has a completed story arc, but this is NOT a stand-alone novel and the story continues in volume 4.
One man faces death
With the help of his team, Mr. Michael Coulson-Jones has overcome the deadly Root elixir that turned him into a monster. But now that they know more about the deadly potion, he is faced with an inevitable truth—unless he agrees to the risk of taking more, he will eventually die.
One man faces theft
In the meantime, a beautiful, infamous French spy and her group of thugs have landed on English soil, intent on stealing the mysterious plant that Apothecary Jack uses to control his underworld empire. They play a deadly game of hide-and-seek with Michael’s team amidst the rookeries of London.
One man faces rage
Then one of the team is afflicted by a savage, insane rage after exposure to the strange pollen of Jack’s plants. The team must not only battle the French spies and Apothecary Jack, but also a sickness of the mind tormenting one of their own.
PLEASE NOTE: Like the novels published in Jane Austen’s time, this is a novel in multiple parts. Each volume has a completed story arc, but this is NOT a stand-alone novel and the story continues in volume 4.
294 pages, Paperback
Published March 17, 2021
About the author
Camille Elliot
15 books191 followersRegency romance with Zondervan under her pen name, Camille Elliot, Camy writes Christian romantic suspense with Love Inspired Suspense as Camy Tang.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
May 12, 2021
In this third book of Lady Wynwood's Spies, the pace moves fast, with new aspects of the dreaded Root becoming the focus, as well as new adversaries for the team to face, including a French spy and her henchman. Apothecary Jack, the Roots maniacal creator, is still at work, too, so all of these elements come together to create quite the ride of a story.
Equally distressing is the trouble in the ranks of their own team, with Michael facing potential death and another facing Root-induced rage that has the potential to ruin their entire operation. I also thought this book does an excellent job at revealing more and more about the past of these characters and how it bears on their development in the present of this story. Laura and Mr. Rosmont especially have such layered and intriguing backstories that I'm eager to learn more. Though there are several different characters focuses on throughout the story, each voice is distinct. Normally head-hopping is not my favorite thing to read, but I enjoy it in this story, though I admit, since I’ve “known” Laura the longest at this point, it’s always fun to get into another layer of her personal story.
There is a lot of action in this plot, so if you’re expecting a slow, demure Regency, this series is not it. It’s a fun, unique historical, with a dash of romance, but mainly focuses on the action and the mystery of the Root and all who wish to acquire it. Definitely do not read this series out of order – it function rather like one long novel, a series in the truest sense of the word with events following immediately after the previous book. The only caveat I might add is that there are fight scenes with some description, so some readers might want to skim over in case that’s not their thing. Action is the only aspect though – the introspection peppered throughout the story gives it a realistic feel; the characters take their roles seriously, but are not immune to self-doubt and faith struggles, which the author intertwines organically throughout the book.
Overall, Aggressor is a fun, multi-layered addition to the series – looking forward to the next book!
Equally distressing is the trouble in the ranks of their own team, with Michael facing potential death and another facing Root-induced rage that has the potential to ruin their entire operation. I also thought this book does an excellent job at revealing more and more about the past of these characters and how it bears on their development in the present of this story. Laura and Mr. Rosmont especially have such layered and intriguing backstories that I'm eager to learn more. Though there are several different characters focuses on throughout the story, each voice is distinct. Normally head-hopping is not my favorite thing to read, but I enjoy it in this story, though I admit, since I’ve “known” Laura the longest at this point, it’s always fun to get into another layer of her personal story.
There is a lot of action in this plot, so if you’re expecting a slow, demure Regency, this series is not it. It’s a fun, unique historical, with a dash of romance, but mainly focuses on the action and the mystery of the Root and all who wish to acquire it. Definitely do not read this series out of order – it function rather like one long novel, a series in the truest sense of the word with events following immediately after the previous book. The only caveat I might add is that there are fight scenes with some description, so some readers might want to skim over in case that’s not their thing. Action is the only aspect though – the introspection peppered throughout the story gives it a realistic feel; the characters take their roles seriously, but are not immune to self-doubt and faith struggles, which the author intertwines organically throughout the book.
Overall, Aggressor is a fun, multi-layered addition to the series – looking forward to the next book!
April 13, 2021
Part 3 of this Christian Regency romance epic serial continues the roller coaster ride of Lady Wynwood's widely assorted group who are trying to stop the perpetrator behind the "root," a postion that gives men unimagined strength and power as well as a deep seated anger at everything and everyone around them. This book focuses on Michael Coulson-Jones who was forced to take the root by Jack, the perpetrator; and now must either taking more or die.
Elliot's amazing descriptions of the darker, underworld side of London bring the setting of this story to life and add to the darker side of this tale. While her realistic characters, who care so deeply for one another, make a team that you want to cheer on through each and every pitfall and new development. The added new twist of the pollen exposure just made the need to catch Jack and put an end to the "root" even more important. Then the inclusion of a beautiful French spy and her thugs, also after the "root," upped the suspense level.
Can't wait to read part 4 of this amazing serial suspense novel.
** I received an ARC from the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
Elliot's amazing descriptions of the darker, underworld side of London bring the setting of this story to life and add to the darker side of this tale. While her realistic characters, who care so deeply for one another, make a team that you want to cheer on through each and every pitfall and new development. The added new twist of the pollen exposure just made the need to catch Jack and put an end to the "root" even more important. Then the inclusion of a beautiful French spy and her thugs, also after the "root," upped the suspense level.
Can't wait to read part 4 of this amazing serial suspense novel.
** I received an ARC from the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.
March 29, 2021
Such an intriguing series! As noted in the book blurb by the author, this is a series that must be read in order, especially since the first book really lays down the background and introduces most of the key characters. In this third book, the hunt is still on for Apothecary Jack but the plot takes a slightly different course as the team tracks down the plant used to make the Root elixir and several other nemesis are found along the way.
The plot is intricate and well-planned with neat twists and turns, the action and suspense are quite intense, the faith element is robust, and romance is not at the forefront but just enough to keep it simmering in the background. There are many voices in the story but they’re easy to differentiate and contribute to the fullness and depth of the story in this book as well as the overarching theme of the series.
I can’t wait to see where the author takes the team in the next book! I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
The plot is intricate and well-planned with neat twists and turns, the action and suspense are quite intense, the faith element is robust, and romance is not at the forefront but just enough to keep it simmering in the background. There are many voices in the story but they’re easy to differentiate and contribute to the fullness and depth of the story in this book as well as the overarching theme of the series.
I can’t wait to see where the author takes the team in the next book! I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.
May 13, 2021
Michael has some difficult decisions to make in this volume, and I was glad to get more from his perspective after events earlier in the series. But I love how the author shows how his decisions effect those around him, proving that even with minimal connections, no one exists in a vacuum.
A continuing theme in this novel is power. Men’s power over women at this time is at the forefront in Phoebe’s situation. Also, others wield power regardless of gender, sometimes because of position, connections, intimidation, or even a substance that grants unfair advantage for a price.
One of the distinct advantages to a serialized novel is the depth of characterization and the chance to explore the relationships between people. I really enjoy getting to spend time with the characters, allowing each one to take the lead at various points and see things from differing perspectives. They feel like old friends, and I am invested in each one, even more so than a traditional series because they remain central to the plot, even if they aren’t the perspective character at the time.
This is the third volume in the serial novel, Lady Wynwood’s Spies. While I was originally skeptical about how a serial novel would flow or how long I’d have to wait between installments, I have enjoyed it immensely and been happy with the short hiatuses so far. The characters are fantastic and the story is engrossing. Due to some thematic elements involving brothels and affairs, never seen in a positive light but part of the continuing story, I would recommend it for older teens and up.
I received a copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
A continuing theme in this novel is power. Men’s power over women at this time is at the forefront in Phoebe’s situation. Also, others wield power regardless of gender, sometimes because of position, connections, intimidation, or even a substance that grants unfair advantage for a price.
One of the distinct advantages to a serialized novel is the depth of characterization and the chance to explore the relationships between people. I really enjoy getting to spend time with the characters, allowing each one to take the lead at various points and see things from differing perspectives. They feel like old friends, and I am invested in each one, even more so than a traditional series because they remain central to the plot, even if they aren’t the perspective character at the time.
This is the third volume in the serial novel, Lady Wynwood’s Spies. While I was originally skeptical about how a serial novel would flow or how long I’d have to wait between installments, I have enjoyed it immensely and been happy with the short hiatuses so far. The characters are fantastic and the story is engrossing. Due to some thematic elements involving brothels and affairs, never seen in a positive light but part of the continuing story, I would recommend it for older teens and up.
I received a copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.
June 22, 2021
Even though the plot was still as good as the two books prior to this one, and we get to know more about the characters’ past and the mysteries around them, I didn’t have that ‘rushed’ feeling to complete this book - it might just be the reading mood I’m in lately.
I did enjoy learning more about some of my favourite characters, like Laura and Phoebe and enjoyed getting to know new characters as well. The twins’ past was heartbreaking and I have a few ‘suspect’ ideas of a few other characters introduced/mentioned.
The action and violence was very well written - so well that if you do not like that sort of thing, it might bother you.
I did like how the ‘Root’ brought out the worst of people - for example extreme rage and longing to be powerful…it feels like the author is going a bit deeper with that theme/plot as the serial continues, but we will see if I’m on the right track.
Now I just need to wait patiently (or try) for tue next volume.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I did enjoy learning more about some of my favourite characters, like Laura and Phoebe and enjoyed getting to know new characters as well. The twins’ past was heartbreaking and I have a few ‘suspect’ ideas of a few other characters introduced/mentioned.
The action and violence was very well written - so well that if you do not like that sort of thing, it might bother you.
I did like how the ‘Root’ brought out the worst of people - for example extreme rage and longing to be powerful…it feels like the author is going a bit deeper with that theme/plot as the serial continues, but we will see if I’m on the right track.
Now I just need to wait patiently (or try) for tue next volume.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
April 18, 2021
This third Lady Wynwood installment moved a bit quicker than the second, each book taking a pace of it's own like the chapters of one delightfully long novel. So much action, so much tension, and so much to look forward to in the books to come! I'm in agony each time I finish one and need to wait for the next to release!
There are some references and situations that would lead me to recommend this book (series) to mature readers. Some of the violence is descriptive, so if you don't care for that be ready to skim over some of the fighting, but definitely read the rest!
I appreciate how the author is fearless in bringing the characters face to face with the spiritual aspect of their trials and circumstances, and look forward to seeing their continued growth and redemption throughout the rest of the story.
[I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.]
There are some references and situations that would lead me to recommend this book (series) to mature readers. Some of the violence is descriptive, so if you don't care for that be ready to skim over some of the fighting, but definitely read the rest!
I appreciate how the author is fearless in bringing the characters face to face with the spiritual aspect of their trials and circumstances, and look forward to seeing their continued growth and redemption throughout the rest of the story.
[I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.]
May 16, 2021
I found this book very disappointing after the other two. It didn't seem as interesting or to go anywhere more like a filler piece
February 11, 2023
Love, love, LOVE this Regency series with its blend of suspense and supernatural/speculative, strong and smart (but very human) characters (and the women's intelligence doesn't make the men stupid by comparison). Be aware, however, that once you start, you're in for the long haul ... but IMHO, it's a very worthwhile commitment. (I've read up through #5 at this point.) Camille Elliot has become a must-read for me!
(cross-posted up through book 5)
(cross-posted up through book 5)
April 10, 2021
I received an ARC from the author. I am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Lady Wynwood’s Spies, volume 3: Aggressor continues many of the plot threads from the first two, advancing them in ways I did not expect. When it comes to these books, I do sometimes feel they are a bit ambitious, with so many plot threads and some I have to refresh my mind on, even with such a short break between books. But that’s more of a “me” thing, a drawback of reading so much, and the story overall is fairly engaging once you get into the rhythm of it.
While I can’t say I’m overly connected to anyone as yet, there are some intriguing plot threads involving everyone. The connections between romantic couples, like Laura and Sol, and Michael and Laura, grows subtly, which says a lot, given one of my pet hates with romances in mysteries is repetition of “will-they’d won’t-they,” which is not the case here, with other things on the characters’ minds. There are also revelations, about the identity of the mother of a key character (or two), and more, and more questions about the effects of “the Root.”
This is another solid installment in a great series, and I’m excited for the next one. And if you’re looking for an intriguing romantic Regency mystery series, definitely check this series out.
Lady Wynwood’s Spies, volume 3: Aggressor continues many of the plot threads from the first two, advancing them in ways I did not expect. When it comes to these books, I do sometimes feel they are a bit ambitious, with so many plot threads and some I have to refresh my mind on, even with such a short break between books. But that’s more of a “me” thing, a drawback of reading so much, and the story overall is fairly engaging once you get into the rhythm of it.
While I can’t say I’m overly connected to anyone as yet, there are some intriguing plot threads involving everyone. The connections between romantic couples, like Laura and Sol, and Michael and Laura, grows subtly, which says a lot, given one of my pet hates with romances in mysteries is repetition of “will-they’d won’t-they,” which is not the case here, with other things on the characters’ minds. There are also revelations, about the identity of the mother of a key character (or two), and more, and more questions about the effects of “the Root.”
This is another solid installment in a great series, and I’m excited for the next one. And if you’re looking for an intriguing romantic Regency mystery series, definitely check this series out.
September 9, 2021
2,5 stars
Well, I like the idea of the lady wynwood series. The first book "Archer" is thrilling and I had high hopes for the books after. "Aggressor" is the 3rd book and I am disappointed... It just doesn't make sense all the time. Why does someone on the root - super strong, you have the impression like captain america - struggle with fighting a "normal" man? If the agents of the crown are so superior, why do they loose the whole book through and barely win a little fight in the end? I think the author stretched the plot unnecessarily in this book. The pov of one or two main characters is not even written... And I have no problem with fighting scenes, but if I get the impression that I don't read anything else, it bores me. In the end I began to skip passages because - again- they were stretched unnecessarily with endless descriptions of a whole street, house, dress until they finally talk with each other..
I think it could be a good series, it's definitely an interesting plot idea, if there weren't so many things that don't make sense..
Btw actually I like the idea of more than 2 povs. But if that means that it comes at the cost of the relationships that are growing, let it be. That's annoying...
Well, I like the idea of the lady wynwood series. The first book "Archer" is thrilling and I had high hopes for the books after. "Aggressor" is the 3rd book and I am disappointed... It just doesn't make sense all the time. Why does someone on the root - super strong, you have the impression like captain america - struggle with fighting a "normal" man? If the agents of the crown are so superior, why do they loose the whole book through and barely win a little fight in the end? I think the author stretched the plot unnecessarily in this book. The pov of one or two main characters is not even written... And I have no problem with fighting scenes, but if I get the impression that I don't read anything else, it bores me. In the end I began to skip passages because - again- they were stretched unnecessarily with endless descriptions of a whole street, house, dress until they finally talk with each other..
I think it could be a good series, it's definitely an interesting plot idea, if there weren't so many things that don't make sense..
Btw actually I like the idea of more than 2 povs. But if that means that it comes at the cost of the relationships that are growing, let it be. That's annoying...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2021
Michael Coulton-Jones has woken up after being sedated. He may no longer be acting as a Berserker, but being forced to take the Root has left other complications. Possibly life-threatening ones. Phoebe Sauber, Laura Wynwood, Keriah, Lady Aymer, Sol Drydale, Thorne, and Sep are all doing all they can to stop Apothecary Jack and his Root.
Complications, besides Michael’s issues, are making the search harder. French spies, deadly plants, and more keep sidetracking them. It’s a dangerous mission, especially when you include civilians instead of the trained agents. Although, Michael is impressed at how well Miss Sauber (Phoebe) can disguise herself. And the regrets he has in life. And Thorne is finding he had much rage inside that’s been locked up for too long.
I love this series, each book has some closure, but the volumes each continue the story. So be warned that they do end on cliffhangers at times…but they are intriguing reads. They do get violent at times, so be warned. It’s all a part of the background of what’s going on around them.
Complications, besides Michael’s issues, are making the search harder. French spies, deadly plants, and more keep sidetracking them. It’s a dangerous mission, especially when you include civilians instead of the trained agents. Although, Michael is impressed at how well Miss Sauber (Phoebe) can disguise herself. And the regrets he has in life. And Thorne is finding he had much rage inside that’s been locked up for too long.
I love this series, each book has some closure, but the volumes each continue the story. So be warned that they do end on cliffhangers at times…but they are intriguing reads. They do get violent at times, so be warned. It’s all a part of the background of what’s going on around them.
January 31, 2022
The adventure continues in this third book of Lady Wynwood's Spies. Apothecary Jack has competition with the French as they fight over who will have control over the Root. Two of the Crown's agents are affected by this strange and powerful potion, and another of the agents is badly injured by men who are part of Apothecary Jack's crew.
I love how the young ladies and the 11 year old twins are called on to help. Each has their own skill set and each help to thwart the villainous plans that have been set into motion. I particularly loved how the bows and arrows played a key part in the confrontations of the men who affected by the Root. This was a clever and unique way of handling a dangerous situation.
While some things are made clearer, other questions are brought up and makes me wish I had the next book to read! This is part of a series and is not a standalone book. if you love adventure, spies, and a bit of romance, you will like this series.
TW: violence, death, brothels
I love how the young ladies and the 11 year old twins are called on to help. Each has their own skill set and each help to thwart the villainous plans that have been set into motion. I particularly loved how the bows and arrows played a key part in the confrontations of the men who affected by the Root. This was a clever and unique way of handling a dangerous situation.
While some things are made clearer, other questions are brought up and makes me wish I had the next book to read! This is part of a series and is not a standalone book. if you love adventure, spies, and a bit of romance, you will like this series.
TW: violence, death, brothels
April 3, 2023
The Story is good but.......
Dear Authoress,
The story is good and the characters are believable for this Regency piece of escapism. But this would have been so much more enjoyable without the constant Bible thumping. Kindly understand that it is not necessary to continually bombard your readers with prayer and religious angst in order to write a Christian novel. Morals, kindness, helping others, etc., the true values of a Christian faith, are more than adequate to get your point across. Your faith is good and so is mine but your zealous fervour is uncomfortable and ruined many of the aspects of the books for me and the more of your novels I read in the series, the worse each book becomes. And truly, undercover espionage agents don't have the conflicting back-and-forth agonising internal conflicts regarding God that your characters are having. It defeats the role they have pursued in life!
Dear Authoress,
The story is good and the characters are believable for this Regency piece of escapism. But this would have been so much more enjoyable without the constant Bible thumping. Kindly understand that it is not necessary to continually bombard your readers with prayer and religious angst in order to write a Christian novel. Morals, kindness, helping others, etc., the true values of a Christian faith, are more than adequate to get your point across. Your faith is good and so is mine but your zealous fervour is uncomfortable and ruined many of the aspects of the books for me and the more of your novels I read in the series, the worse each book becomes. And truly, undercover espionage agents don't have the conflicting back-and-forth agonising internal conflicts regarding God that your characters are having. It defeats the role they have pursued in life!
May 4, 2023
This is a thrilling series. I have seldom come across such engaging characters or story lines that keep moving at a fast clip and yet have the ability to describe the events in such detail that the reader can
visualize the settings and feel an emotional connection to the characters. I love this author's ability to blend action, romance and mystery in a verbally rich and visual enviorment and give God the glory.
visualize the settings and feel an emotional connection to the characters. I love this author's ability to blend action, romance and mystery in a verbally rich and visual enviorment and give God the glory.
September 7, 2022
Another good "episode" in this serial novel. I just found out there will be 10 all together! It's a good thing they aren't all written yet, or I wouldn't get anything else done until I read them all. Now to see if I still remember all the subplots and characters when the next one comes out. It's hard to put these books down!
January 30, 2023
Aggressive Outcome
The plot is becoming more and more complex. It's also more
dangerous, especially for Phoebe, Isabella, and Clara. The "plant" situation seems more intense.
The plot is becoming more and more complex. It's also more
dangerous, especially for Phoebe, Isabella, and Clara. The "plant" situation seems more intense.
February 22, 2022
I could not put down these books!
But now I'm wondering about book 4, Betrayer! Please tell me it is coming out soon!!
Cliffhanger is an understatement!
But now I'm wondering about book 4, Betrayer! Please tell me it is coming out soon!!
Cliffhanger is an understatement!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews