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Viscount Ware Mysteries #1
The Dead Betray None
An aristocratic spy and a highborn lady cross paths over a dead body.
1811 England seethes with discontent. A self-indulgent prince regent sits on the throne of a country at war with France, on the brink of war with America, and facing growing rebellion at home.
Lucien, Viscount Ware, recently home after four years on the Continent as a spy for England, finds life in the haute ton tedious. He secretly agrees to handle a few delicate matters for the Crown's private spy unit at Whitehall. A housebreaking at a country houseparty seems a strange assignment until he discovers that a French cipher, the key to Napoleon's war codes, was among the stolen items. As he follows its trail to London's notorious rookeries and into its glittering ballrooms, he faces a growing threat of treachery from more than one direction.
Lady Anne Ashburn missed her London season while caring for her invalid mother in the north country. A new nurse allows her to visit relatives, where she becomes embroiled in a blackmail plot. To avoid a terrible scandal, she goes to London to face down the scoundrel threatening her family.
The night of the elegant Christmastide Ball, Lucien finds Lady Anne standing over a corpse. What happens after that—the risks they take, the intrusion of a notorious crime lord, society gossip, and good intentions gone awry—sends them spiraling into danger and potential disaster for England’s war effort.
An ever twisting plot sure to keep you turning the pages.
1811 England seethes with discontent. A self-indulgent prince regent sits on the throne of a country at war with France, on the brink of war with America, and facing growing rebellion at home.
Lucien, Viscount Ware, recently home after four years on the Continent as a spy for England, finds life in the haute ton tedious. He secretly agrees to handle a few delicate matters for the Crown's private spy unit at Whitehall. A housebreaking at a country houseparty seems a strange assignment until he discovers that a French cipher, the key to Napoleon's war codes, was among the stolen items. As he follows its trail to London's notorious rookeries and into its glittering ballrooms, he faces a growing threat of treachery from more than one direction.
Lady Anne Ashburn missed her London season while caring for her invalid mother in the north country. A new nurse allows her to visit relatives, where she becomes embroiled in a blackmail plot. To avoid a terrible scandal, she goes to London to face down the scoundrel threatening her family.
The night of the elegant Christmastide Ball, Lucien finds Lady Anne standing over a corpse. What happens after that—the risks they take, the intrusion of a notorious crime lord, society gossip, and good intentions gone awry—sends them spiraling into danger and potential disaster for England’s war effort.
An ever twisting plot sure to keep you turning the pages.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
282 pages, Paperback
First published July 12, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 13, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Viscount Ware Mysteries #1
Publication Date: 7/12/22
Period: Regency - 1811
Number of Pages: 302
Finding this book was the happiest of accidents – and I believe it is the author’s first book. I am thoroughly happy to have found both the book and the author and I already cannot wait for the next book. The mystery is excellently done and the characters are very relatable. One of the things I loved was that it is period correct – from the manners through the way they spoke, it was spot on.
1811 was a very turbulent time for England with Napoleon’s war in Europe, the conflict with America, and civil strife and unrest at home in England. Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, is the son and heir to the Earl of Salcott. Lucien is a very honorable man who does his best to protect his king and his country – though his father thinks he is a worthless ne’er do well. Lucien and his best friend Andrew Sherbourne (Sherry) served as spies on the continent until they were betrayed and only barely managed to escape with their lives. Now, back in England, both Lucien and Sherry have been recruited by the Marquess of Rothe to be part of the Crown’s secret spies within England.
Lucien and Sherry were a bit perplexed by the assignment given to them by Roth. What could the theft of a few bits and baubles from a house party have to do with the security of England? The thefts don’t make sense – until they do. Finally, they discover what was really taken and what it means to England to find it. The trail leads them through the dregs and dirtiest parts of London and the glittering ballrooms of the elite and right into Whitehall itself.
During his investigation, Lucien meets the lovely Lady Anne Ashburne who is witty, intelligent, and could easily have been a general if she had been a man. Anne provides invaluable assistance to their investigation though Lucien wants to keep her protected and away from danger.
Lucien, Sherry, and Anne face great danger to uncover the French spy among them and to thwart his plot against England. Can they stop him in time? Will he escape and carry many of England’s secrets with him? Can they recover the cipher that was stolen at the house party? Will Lady Anne decide she wants to work as one of the Crown’s secret spies? Ah! So many questions and you’ll only find the answers when you read the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story with so many twists and turns, red herrings, and secrets as well as delightful characters. I love historical cozy mysteries and this book fits that just perfectly. However, I also require those mysteries to have a romance and this one doesn’t have that – though there is a hint of one. Hopefully, that hint will blossom within the next couple of books. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did should you choose to read it.
Series: Viscount Ware Mysteries #1
Publication Date: 7/12/22
Period: Regency - 1811
Number of Pages: 302
Finding this book was the happiest of accidents – and I believe it is the author’s first book. I am thoroughly happy to have found both the book and the author and I already cannot wait for the next book. The mystery is excellently done and the characters are very relatable. One of the things I loved was that it is period correct – from the manners through the way they spoke, it was spot on.
1811 was a very turbulent time for England with Napoleon’s war in Europe, the conflict with America, and civil strife and unrest at home in England. Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, is the son and heir to the Earl of Salcott. Lucien is a very honorable man who does his best to protect his king and his country – though his father thinks he is a worthless ne’er do well. Lucien and his best friend Andrew Sherbourne (Sherry) served as spies on the continent until they were betrayed and only barely managed to escape with their lives. Now, back in England, both Lucien and Sherry have been recruited by the Marquess of Rothe to be part of the Crown’s secret spies within England.
Lucien and Sherry were a bit perplexed by the assignment given to them by Roth. What could the theft of a few bits and baubles from a house party have to do with the security of England? The thefts don’t make sense – until they do. Finally, they discover what was really taken and what it means to England to find it. The trail leads them through the dregs and dirtiest parts of London and the glittering ballrooms of the elite and right into Whitehall itself.
During his investigation, Lucien meets the lovely Lady Anne Ashburne who is witty, intelligent, and could easily have been a general if she had been a man. Anne provides invaluable assistance to their investigation though Lucien wants to keep her protected and away from danger.
Lucien, Sherry, and Anne face great danger to uncover the French spy among them and to thwart his plot against England. Can they stop him in time? Will he escape and carry many of England’s secrets with him? Can they recover the cipher that was stolen at the house party? Will Lady Anne decide she wants to work as one of the Crown’s secret spies? Ah! So many questions and you’ll only find the answers when you read the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story with so many twists and turns, red herrings, and secrets as well as delightful characters. I love historical cozy mysteries and this book fits that just perfectly. However, I also require those mysteries to have a romance and this one doesn’t have that – though there is a hint of one. Hopefully, that hint will blossom within the next couple of books. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did should you choose to read it.
July 30, 2022
This was a very intriguing story. I really enjoyed all the twists and turns. There is no romance to speak of, but the ending leaves one to think it may be coming. What starts out as a ‘simple robbery’ turns into a national security crisis. I am normally pretty good at picking out the villain, but the auth did a GREAT job of hiding them in plain sight ! The heroine has a curiosity streak that gets her into trouble and the hero is enamored with her feisty mentality. This is a very good mystery/suspense novel and I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 2, 2024
Likeable regency mystery featuring returned English spies when their cover was blown and France became too dangerous for them. Lucian Grey, Viscount Ware and Andrew Sherbourne are returned from the continent and still used by the Marquess of Rothe as part of Prinny’s secret spy organisation.
The key to Bonaparte’s new cipher has been found—and lost. Ware and Sherry are sent to investigate.
Here Ware meets the lovely Lady Anne Ashburn. A highly intelligent, clever lady who against Ware’s better judgement joins him in his search.
Highly intriguing.
The key to Bonaparte’s new cipher has been found—and lost. Ware and Sherry are sent to investigate.
Here Ware meets the lovely Lady Anne Ashburn. A highly intelligent, clever lady who against Ware’s better judgement joins him in his search.
Highly intriguing.
August 14, 2022
A Cozy Regency Mystery
Although I love romances more than cozy mysteries, still I was pleasantly surprised by The Dead Betray None. As the first book in A Viscount Ware Mystery series, it is a page turner which kept me entertained and guessing.
The author, J.L. Buck has an easy style that shows rather than tells, and her tightly woven mystery is filled with spies, thefts, treason, murders and danger. Her characters are believable and complex, and I especially liked the three main characters, Lord Ware, Lord Sherbourne and Lady Anne.
Content 411: This book does not contain sex, but there is some mild swearing and non-described violence.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
Although I love romances more than cozy mysteries, still I was pleasantly surprised by The Dead Betray None. As the first book in A Viscount Ware Mystery series, it is a page turner which kept me entertained and guessing.
The author, J.L. Buck has an easy style that shows rather than tells, and her tightly woven mystery is filled with spies, thefts, treason, murders and danger. Her characters are believable and complex, and I especially liked the three main characters, Lord Ware, Lord Sherbourne and Lady Anne.
Content 411: This book does not contain sex, but there is some mild swearing and non-described violence.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
July 31, 2022
The Dead Betray None is Book 1 in A Viscount Ware Mystery by J L Buck. I felt that the author did a great job of blending the Regency period with a good mystery. Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, and Andrew Sherbourne, the second son of a Baron, are charged with finding a missing military letter. I thought that the characters were well written and interesting. The mystery and the situations the characters get into are interesting and stay within the period,1811. I really enjoyed the story and I hope Book 2 releases soon! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
August 4, 2022
Never in a lifetime would I have found nor read this fantastic story had @booksirens not offered me an ARC. I loved this story, and so will every reader who loves quality historical stories. I thank Book Sirens for providing me the opportunity to read this terrific story. If you enjoy Georgette Heyer, this is in her style, but at a much faster pace modern-day readers demand and expect.
Lucien Grey, Viscount Waring, is the heir to an Earldom but, more interestingly, a competent and skilled spy working with his partner Andrew Sherbourne (AKA Sherry) to thwart Bonaparte and the French in 1811.
The story opens with Lucien arriving at Sherry’s family home to investigate the theft of a document that is the cipher to break the French Army’s communications. The cipher presents the opportunity to end the war with France sooner rather than later. However, a duffer of a general given the packet of documents decides not to leave the house party immediately upon receipt of the cipher. Instead, he places this extraordinary document that has the chance of defeating the French in his traveling writing desk. Surprisingly, there is a theft of many of the guest's jewelry and, naturally, the writing desk.
Lucien is an elegant, charming man and a most capable intelligence officer. So he and Sherry begin investigating just who in the house may have had the opportunity to stage a robbery. Into the mix arrives Lady Ann Ashburn, the daughter of the Earl of Chadley, to assist her Great Aunt, a guest of the house party who has fallen ill to return home. Lucien is somewhat abrupt in his initial dealings with Lady Ann, and they clash ever so elegantly. This is not the beginning of a romance but more an intriguing attraction that bubbles along throughout the story. The Dead Betray None is first and foremost a tale of intrigue, betrayal of country, and a mystery to be solved. The story moves from country homes to London, to ballrooms, cottages all manner of places.
Lucien appears to have a challenging relationship with his father that is hinted at throughout the story, and I imagine more will be revealed in the next book.
The story is written in the language and speech of its time, and I loved it. I become uncomfortable as a reader when citizens of the Regency period talk in modern English about products and events that have not happened. J L Buck's writing style is effortless and elegant, and the story flows flawlessly from one adventure, incident, and events throughout the story.
Lady Ann is the type of foil and co-adventurer I look for in a story about chasing a spy who is betraying England. She’s intelligent and is curious to experience some intrigue as she is drawn into the mystery by an unexpected blackmail attempt on a young cousin. And so Ann finds herself assisting Lucien and Sherry in their investigations. At no time does she become a pest dashing off trying to save the situation and creating a false conflict and drama. So many authors imbue their heroines with modern-day traits. This is not Lady Ann’s style. She is a woman of her time with the constraints of the Regency period. I’m sure we will see more of lady Ann in the next book ‘The Dead can not Hide.’
This story is a real page-turner, and the dialogue was exceptional. I have to be honest; there was nothing about this story I didn’t love. Suppose you like Historical Mysteries, then download this book and enjoy. I have already downloaded the next book due on St Valentine's day in 2023. That’s how much I loved these characters and stories.
Thank you Book Sirens for introducing me to a new author.
Lucien Grey, Viscount Waring, is the heir to an Earldom but, more interestingly, a competent and skilled spy working with his partner Andrew Sherbourne (AKA Sherry) to thwart Bonaparte and the French in 1811.
The story opens with Lucien arriving at Sherry’s family home to investigate the theft of a document that is the cipher to break the French Army’s communications. The cipher presents the opportunity to end the war with France sooner rather than later. However, a duffer of a general given the packet of documents decides not to leave the house party immediately upon receipt of the cipher. Instead, he places this extraordinary document that has the chance of defeating the French in his traveling writing desk. Surprisingly, there is a theft of many of the guest's jewelry and, naturally, the writing desk.
Lucien is an elegant, charming man and a most capable intelligence officer. So he and Sherry begin investigating just who in the house may have had the opportunity to stage a robbery. Into the mix arrives Lady Ann Ashburn, the daughter of the Earl of Chadley, to assist her Great Aunt, a guest of the house party who has fallen ill to return home. Lucien is somewhat abrupt in his initial dealings with Lady Ann, and they clash ever so elegantly. This is not the beginning of a romance but more an intriguing attraction that bubbles along throughout the story. The Dead Betray None is first and foremost a tale of intrigue, betrayal of country, and a mystery to be solved. The story moves from country homes to London, to ballrooms, cottages all manner of places.
Lucien appears to have a challenging relationship with his father that is hinted at throughout the story, and I imagine more will be revealed in the next book.
The story is written in the language and speech of its time, and I loved it. I become uncomfortable as a reader when citizens of the Regency period talk in modern English about products and events that have not happened. J L Buck's writing style is effortless and elegant, and the story flows flawlessly from one adventure, incident, and events throughout the story.
Lady Ann is the type of foil and co-adventurer I look for in a story about chasing a spy who is betraying England. She’s intelligent and is curious to experience some intrigue as she is drawn into the mystery by an unexpected blackmail attempt on a young cousin. And so Ann finds herself assisting Lucien and Sherry in their investigations. At no time does she become a pest dashing off trying to save the situation and creating a false conflict and drama. So many authors imbue their heroines with modern-day traits. This is not Lady Ann’s style. She is a woman of her time with the constraints of the Regency period. I’m sure we will see more of lady Ann in the next book ‘The Dead can not Hide.’
This story is a real page-turner, and the dialogue was exceptional. I have to be honest; there was nothing about this story I didn’t love. Suppose you like Historical Mysteries, then download this book and enjoy. I have already downloaded the next book due on St Valentine's day in 2023. That’s how much I loved these characters and stories.
Thank you Book Sirens for introducing me to a new author.
September 7, 2022
Thank you, #BookSirens for an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hard to follow at the beginning with multiple people, varying titles, and nicknames converging, but as I got further along the characters & plot fell smoothly into place. I confess that I have little knowledge of the Regency era, so I can not speak to accuracy, however, I felt caught up in that frame of mind and time.
This is not so very much a mystery as it is adventure. This story has spies, stolen coded messages, fights, balls, gangsters and a tiny taste of romance. The characters are likable and have good chemistry. I wish that there would have been more interactions between Viscount Ware and Lady Anne, but The Dead Betray None lays a solid foundation for more collaboration between them.
I look forward to the next entry in this series!
Hard to follow at the beginning with multiple people, varying titles, and nicknames converging, but as I got further along the characters & plot fell smoothly into place. I confess that I have little knowledge of the Regency era, so I can not speak to accuracy, however, I felt caught up in that frame of mind and time.
This is not so very much a mystery as it is adventure. This story has spies, stolen coded messages, fights, balls, gangsters and a tiny taste of romance. The characters are likable and have good chemistry. I wish that there would have been more interactions between Viscount Ware and Lady Anne, but The Dead Betray None lays a solid foundation for more collaboration between them.
I look forward to the next entry in this series!
August 6, 2025
Very enjoyable. I liked both Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware and Lady Anne. I hope their initial attraction to each other continues.
A good story, I really liked the mystery.
Easy to read. I Decided to read book 1 after having read the ARCs for book 2 and 3 and it was well worth it.
A good story, I really liked the mystery.
Easy to read. I Decided to read book 1 after having read the ARCs for book 2 and 3 and it was well worth it.
August 29, 2022
There was so much to love about this book. The plot is fantastic. There's a great mystery with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. And while there is a romance, it's not the center of the story. I like that because it allows you to get to know the characters as individuals, not just in their relationship with each other.
The story is told mostly from Lucien's point of view, not something you usually see in a Regency story. But Lady Anne has a voice too, and it's strong and definitely equal to his . Both characters are likeable and relatable. The side characters are well drawn too, even the black-hearted Gentleman Thief. This was a great read, and I hope more installments are coming.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is told mostly from Lucien's point of view, not something you usually see in a Regency story. But Lady Anne has a voice too, and it's strong and definitely equal to his . Both characters are likeable and relatable. The side characters are well drawn too, even the black-hearted Gentleman Thief. This was a great read, and I hope more installments are coming.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2023
A suspenseful, well-written Regency mystery with wonderful characters—the hero is honorable and dashing, doing dangerous work for the Crown, and the heroine is courageous and gifted, so both of them get into plenty of trouble. I ordered the next in the series right away.
August 25, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Its well-drawn characters and intriguing plot pulled me into the story and didn't let me go until I had read the final word. I loved it!
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this terrific book and can definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a great story.
I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this terrific book and can definitely recommend it to anyone who loves a great story.
August 13, 2022
As a spy thriller, JL Buck’s “The Dead Betray None” is top-notch with non-stop action. However, the love interest is a tease that hints it might go somewhere later. Since this is book 1 of the Lord Ware series, perhaps there will be more fleshing out his character and teaming up with Lady Anne in the future. Viscount Lucien Ware and his sidekick Lord Sherbourne are master sleuths whose skills are much appreciated by the Whitehall war office but little known outside that circle. Lucien’s father has little knowledge and no appreciation of his son’s contributions to his country, so all Lucien’s energy is poured into his missions. My rating is four stars because I like my heroes better rounded. I thank the author for an advance review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
September 4, 2022
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my freely given opinion.
This was a historical intrigue novel set during the Regency, with the main character being Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware. He has a history of working as a spy for the government, on the Continent. He has been sent to investigate a burglary at a house party at the family estate of his friend, Sherry. It turns out that during the break in, that a confidential document that was in the hands of a guest was stolen. It is uncertain if the break in was the work of thieves who by happenstance stole the document, or by the French, seeking to recover the document, and disguised it as a break-in.
At the same time, he meets Lady Ann, the niece of one of the guests. She has come to help her ill aunt, who was one of the few guests to remain at the house at the time of the burglary. She and Grey bump heads when they meet; especially as he is focused on his duty to interview any remaining guests to ascertain events and she is protective of her elderly and ill aunt.
However, their paths cross again in London. Ann is there to partake of some of the joys of London with her aunt and cousin, but is drawn into an intrigue when it turns out that her cousin is being blackmailed over an indiscreet letter from a former beau which, if it comes to light, could endanger the cousin's engagement to another man. Ann decides to help her, but this causes her to cross paths with Grey again, and at times it looks like they are working at cross purposes as his investigation into the lost document, the burglaries, and her blackmailer all intersect.
This is not a lighthearted, comedic cozy mystery like the Beatrice Hyde Clare novels, but has a darker, more serious tone, more like Andrea Penrose's Wrexford and Sloane. I like the development of the characters and relationships and there is good groundwork laid for further development. It is obvious that Grey and his father have a contentious and difficult history and relationship, and there is growing respect and appreciation between Lady Ann and Grey that feels like it could develop into something more. Sherry makes a nice lighter foil to Grey's intensity and a good friend to him. Lady Ann seems to be an intelligent, grounded lady with confidence and a good head on her shoulders.
Generally enjoyable intrigue story for me. I can't say I really liked the cousin so much; she seemed quite the silly superficial chit to me, but I guess that made a good contrast to the intelligent, dependable, and capable Lady Ann.
4 stars out of 5.
This was a historical intrigue novel set during the Regency, with the main character being Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware. He has a history of working as a spy for the government, on the Continent. He has been sent to investigate a burglary at a house party at the family estate of his friend, Sherry. It turns out that during the break in, that a confidential document that was in the hands of a guest was stolen. It is uncertain if the break in was the work of thieves who by happenstance stole the document, or by the French, seeking to recover the document, and disguised it as a break-in.
At the same time, he meets Lady Ann, the niece of one of the guests. She has come to help her ill aunt, who was one of the few guests to remain at the house at the time of the burglary. She and Grey bump heads when they meet; especially as he is focused on his duty to interview any remaining guests to ascertain events and she is protective of her elderly and ill aunt.
However, their paths cross again in London. Ann is there to partake of some of the joys of London with her aunt and cousin, but is drawn into an intrigue when it turns out that her cousin is being blackmailed over an indiscreet letter from a former beau which, if it comes to light, could endanger the cousin's engagement to another man. Ann decides to help her, but this causes her to cross paths with Grey again, and at times it looks like they are working at cross purposes as his investigation into the lost document, the burglaries, and her blackmailer all intersect.
This is not a lighthearted, comedic cozy mystery like the Beatrice Hyde Clare novels, but has a darker, more serious tone, more like Andrea Penrose's Wrexford and Sloane. I like the development of the characters and relationships and there is good groundwork laid for further development. It is obvious that Grey and his father have a contentious and difficult history and relationship, and there is growing respect and appreciation between Lady Ann and Grey that feels like it could develop into something more. Sherry makes a nice lighter foil to Grey's intensity and a good friend to him. Lady Ann seems to be an intelligent, grounded lady with confidence and a good head on her shoulders.
Generally enjoyable intrigue story for me. I can't say I really liked the cousin so much; she seemed quite the silly superficial chit to me, but I guess that made a good contrast to the intelligent, dependable, and capable Lady Ann.
4 stars out of 5.
September 28, 2022
Regency with mystery always catch my eye. I find it interesting how the protagonists find themselves in risky situations that keep me pending trying to imagine what the course of action is going to be. Viscount Lucien Ware, Lord Sherbourne and the curious and unstoppable Lady Anne found themselves challenged while stopping a threat to the homeland. In tune with the dictates of the Ton, the characters were forced to juggle discovering the culprits and keeping the secrets of their activities. A complicated mission, with undercover nobles, unexpected turns, social activities of the Ton and an enigmatic woman who doesn't seem to follow the rules. Adventure, spies, assassins, traitors, secrets, and difficult family relationships all contribute to an interesting, intriguing, and dangerous adventure. I liked the character of Lady Anne, smart, capable, unselfish, and with a very useful gift. Although there wasn't a clear romance between Lady Anne and Lucien the attraction was present, and the author suggests that in future stories there may be something more. This is the first book in the series and also the first I have read by this author, and I liked the characters of Lucien and Lady Anne, the detailed action that allowed me to visualize what was happening and the complexity of the mission that kept me curious and entertaining all the time. I voluntarily reviewed this copy which I received for free from BookSirens.
September 10, 2022
This was a refreshing and enjoyable story. The three main characters in this book are Lady Ann Ashburn, who has come to help her aunt to get home. When she arrives, she finds out she is sick and has been for a day and night. Her cousin had also been there and had been frightened. There were other guests that had been there, but everyone packed up and fled after the robbery.
Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, had ridden from London to Sherbourne's Manor in record time. Stepping out the side door was Andrew Sherbourne, second son to the baron, auburn hair and about six feet tall.
They had been friends since Eton. Lucien had questioned the servants and any guests that were left.
They were also partners and they worked for The Marquess Rothe of Whitehall, master of secret spies. Andrew Sherbourne, Sherry, was the partner to Lucien, they both knew, each was trustworthy and could be counted on.
The characters were well-rounded, gentlemanly, and impeccable. The tale was engaging and there were a few surprises. There were also some twists and turns, but it all kept it challenging to read
and exciting. I highly recommend it.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, had ridden from London to Sherbourne's Manor in record time. Stepping out the side door was Andrew Sherbourne, second son to the baron, auburn hair and about six feet tall.
They had been friends since Eton. Lucien had questioned the servants and any guests that were left.
They were also partners and they worked for The Marquess Rothe of Whitehall, master of secret spies. Andrew Sherbourne, Sherry, was the partner to Lucien, they both knew, each was trustworthy and could be counted on.
The characters were well-rounded, gentlemanly, and impeccable. The tale was engaging and there were a few surprises. There were also some twists and turns, but it all kept it challenging to read
and exciting. I highly recommend it.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
January 23, 2023
I generally limit my reading to the historical romance genre because I like to have a happy ending. That said, I'm very happy that the cover of this book drew me in. This story was a well-crafted mystery involving espionage and murder. There were no loose ends and no red herrings. Things did get off to a slow start but once the action begin, events unfolded quickly. The characters were multi-faceted and likeable. I could see Lucien and Anne evolving into a duo reminiscent of Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence. Viscount Ware's London certainly has enough interesting characters lurking about to keep these keen investigators occupied for a long time.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.
February 15, 2023
This was a very interesting story. I really enjoyed all the twists and turns. I thought the characters were well written and interesting. This story is a page turner, it kept me interested and intrigued from start to finish. The dialogue, setting and characters were exceptional.
Both characters are likeable and relatable. The side characters are well drawn as well. This a new to me author and I enjoyed this book and her writing style. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I found this author thru Book Sirens. I am glad for Book Sirens introducing me to this author.
Both characters are likeable and relatable. The side characters are well drawn as well. This a new to me author and I enjoyed this book and her writing style. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I found this author thru Book Sirens. I am glad for Book Sirens introducing me to this author.
November 15, 2022
This was an excellent start to what portends to be an intriguing new series! Lord Ware and Lady Anne were excellently portrayed, and the reader felt like they were actually back in 1811 England as they followed along with the large cast of characters, both good and bad, while our two intrepid MCs strived to stop the threat to the country. Very well-written. I will be following this series as it unfolds.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2023
Worth the purchase
I've quit having expectations for works of this genre. Usually the romance is overdone, the history has major errors, or the characters are overdone or simply unbelievable. It was a true joy to find this first in a series with none of those flaws. If the characters are a bit "to type", they are, nevertheless, well done and the book is quite readable. I hope that the next in this series is at least as good
I've quit having expectations for works of this genre. Usually the romance is overdone, the history has major errors, or the characters are overdone or simply unbelievable. It was a true joy to find this first in a series with none of those flaws. If the characters are a bit "to type", they are, nevertheless, well done and the book is quite readable. I hope that the next in this series is at least as good
June 17, 2023
An intriguing Regency mystery, having a male as the main POV (not common in many books I read). Enjoyed the book, very interested in the side characters too and if they will have a bigger part to play in the upcoming books. Easy to read, wonderfully written with some brawls, gun fighting and the ton.
Thanks to goodreads and the author for the giveaway win for this book. Much appreciated!
Thanks to goodreads and the author for the giveaway win for this book. Much appreciated!
July 14, 2023
Here comes an exquisite mystery series with a hunky male protagonist along with a fantastic female co-protagonist working within the historical parameters of the period. Can you spell so real I was transported to England and the Regency period and the fast paced and twisty mystery.
I see Book 2 and 3 are available. YES!
I see Book 2 and 3 are available. YES!
January 8, 2023
The Dead Betray None is a rare combination of a well-written period novel and mystery/adventure.
It felt Heinlein-esque as the characters handled the intertwined social, political, and technological aspects of the plot all in period-correct dress and language!
It felt Heinlein-esque as the characters handled the intertwined social, political, and technological aspects of the plot all in period-correct dress and language!
January 9, 2023
Good Napoleonic War spy story--it's a cross between Captain Lacey and Sebastian St. Cyr.
March 12, 2023
It was a very nice start to a nice Regency mystery. I am a little interested in seeing what happens next.
November 21, 2022
Thank you, #BookSirens for an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
No sex, a little romance, lots of intrigue. A wonderful start to a new series and I am ready to see what happens next between Lucien and Anne.
No sex, a little romance, lots of intrigue. A wonderful start to a new series and I am ready to see what happens next between Lucien and Anne.
January 19, 2024
Murder, spycraft, mystery and the beginning of a lovely relationship. The story opens with a case of thievery to solve. Which evolved into blackmail, murder mayhem, and all kinds of action filled scenes involving French spies and loyal English thugs, to name a few. Never a dull chapter in this book.
I received an ARC of this book from BookSirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book from BookSirens and leaving my review voluntarily.
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