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Dangerous Gifts #1
Silver Lady
From the renowned bestselling author comes a thrilling new historical romance series set in the remote English county of Cornwall, featuring a rugged hero and heroine who share a unique legacy, a powerful passion—and a common enemy. Perfect for fans of Bridgerton.
Together they faced the past . . .
A sense of duty sends Bran Tremayne to Cornwall to confront his heritage of British nobility. Abandoned at birth, Bran wants nothing to do with the embittered remains of his family. But as a special agent for the Home Office, he senses trouble brewing along the coast. And he can’t turn away from the vulnerable woman he encounters in the Cornish countryside. Merryn’s amnesia makes her past a mystery to them both, but with her life in danger, the only thing Bran knows for sure is that the beautiful stranger needs his protection . . .
But would they share a future?
Leaning into Bran is difficult enough, but can Merryn trust the strong bond—and the powerful passion—she feels for her rugged rescuer? She has no choice once Bran uncovers that she is at the center of a plot between French agents and Cornish smugglers. From misty woodlands to stormy shores, the two join forces with a band of loyal Cornishmen to bring down a common enemy. Yet will their growing love survive the coming peril?
Together they faced the past . . .
A sense of duty sends Bran Tremayne to Cornwall to confront his heritage of British nobility. Abandoned at birth, Bran wants nothing to do with the embittered remains of his family. But as a special agent for the Home Office, he senses trouble brewing along the coast. And he can’t turn away from the vulnerable woman he encounters in the Cornish countryside. Merryn’s amnesia makes her past a mystery to them both, but with her life in danger, the only thing Bran knows for sure is that the beautiful stranger needs his protection . . .
But would they share a future?
Leaning into Bran is difficult enough, but can Merryn trust the strong bond—and the powerful passion—she feels for her rugged rescuer? She has no choice once Bran uncovers that she is at the center of a plot between French agents and Cornish smugglers. From misty woodlands to stormy shores, the two join forces with a band of loyal Cornishmen to bring down a common enemy. Yet will their growing love survive the coming peril?
368 pages, Hardcover
First published August 22, 2023
490 people are currently reading
7903 people want to read
About the author
Mary Jo Putney
167 books2,262 followersShe writes young adult fiction as M.J. Putney.
Mary Jo Putney was born on 1946 in Upstate New York with a reading addiction, a condition for which there is no known cure. After earning degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design at Syracuse University, she did various forms of design work in California and England before inertia took over in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has lived very comfortably ever since.
While becoming a novelist was her ultimate fantasy, it never occurred to her that writing was an achievable goal until she acquired a computer for other purposes. When the realization hit that a computer was the ultimate writing tool, she charged merrily into her first book with an ignorance that illustrates the adage that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Fortune sometimes favors the foolish and her first book sold quickly, thereby changing her life forever, in most ways for the better. (“But why didn't anyone tell me that writing would change the way one reads?”) Like a lemming over a cliff, she gave up her freelance graphic design business to become a full-time writer as soon as possible.
Since 1987, Ms. Putney has published twenty-nine books and counting. Her stories are noted for psychological depth and unusual subject matter such as alcoholism, death and dying, and domestic abuse. She has made all of the national bestseller lists including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USAToday, and Publishers Weekly. Five of her books have been named among the year’s top five romances by The Library Journal. The Spiral Path and Stolen Magic were chosen as one of Top Ten romances of their years by Booklist, published by the American Library Association.
A nine-time finalist for the Romance Writers of America RITA, she has won RITAs for Dancing on the Wind and The Rake and the Reformer and is on the RWA Honor Roll for bestselling authors. She has been awarded two Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards, four NJRW Golden Leaf awards, plus the NJRW career achievement award for historical romance. Though most of her books have been historical, she has also published three contemporary romances. The Marriage Spell will be out in June 2006 in hardcover, and Stolen Magic (written as M. J. Putney) will be released in July 2006.
Ms. Putney says that not least among the blessings of a full-time writing career is that one almost never has to wear pantyhose.
Mary Jo Putney was born on 1946 in Upstate New York with a reading addiction, a condition for which there is no known cure. After earning degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design at Syracuse University, she did various forms of design work in California and England before inertia took over in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has lived very comfortably ever since.
While becoming a novelist was her ultimate fantasy, it never occurred to her that writing was an achievable goal until she acquired a computer for other purposes. When the realization hit that a computer was the ultimate writing tool, she charged merrily into her first book with an ignorance that illustrates the adage that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Fortune sometimes favors the foolish and her first book sold quickly, thereby changing her life forever, in most ways for the better. (“But why didn't anyone tell me that writing would change the way one reads?”) Like a lemming over a cliff, she gave up her freelance graphic design business to become a full-time writer as soon as possible.
Since 1987, Ms. Putney has published twenty-nine books and counting. Her stories are noted for psychological depth and unusual subject matter such as alcoholism, death and dying, and domestic abuse. She has made all of the national bestseller lists including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USAToday, and Publishers Weekly. Five of her books have been named among the year’s top five romances by The Library Journal. The Spiral Path and Stolen Magic were chosen as one of Top Ten romances of their years by Booklist, published by the American Library Association.
A nine-time finalist for the Romance Writers of America RITA, she has won RITAs for Dancing on the Wind and The Rake and the Reformer and is on the RWA Honor Roll for bestselling authors. She has been awarded two Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards, four NJRW Golden Leaf awards, plus the NJRW career achievement award for historical romance. Though most of her books have been historical, she has also published three contemporary romances. The Marriage Spell will be out in June 2006 in hardcover, and Stolen Magic (written as M. J. Putney) will be released in July 2006.
Ms. Putney says that not least among the blessings of a full-time writing career is that one almost never has to wear pantyhose.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
August 25, 2024
I enjoyed this book and plan to continue reading the series but there was just "something" missing from the storyline to make it a great read. I liked the premise of people having special "abilities" like healing or foretelling. BUT problems seemed to be solved so easily, and the mystery never grabbed me. So 4* for premise and 3* for delivery =3.5*
September 25, 2023
Some of my favorite historical fiction romances are where there's a touch of magical realism, and Silver Lady does just that!! Somewhere between Claire Dane's movie Stardust and a Bridgerton novel - this was a highly enjoyable read!
So much of what I love about this kind of romance is the tenderness and the sweetness. If those are the kinds of relationships you love to dive into, Silver Lady is perfect! Easy reading, no more and no less.
NOTES:
CWs: none
🌶️/5 - Some on page open door situations
**Thank you to Kensington Books & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
So much of what I love about this kind of romance is the tenderness and the sweetness. If those are the kinds of relationships you love to dive into, Silver Lady is perfect! Easy reading, no more and no less.
NOTES:
CWs: none
🌶️/5 - Some on page open door situations
**Thank you to Kensington Books & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
November 28, 2023
Happy release day~
Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy to review! Silver Lady is out this November 28th.
This was a bit of a mixed bag, though it was largely a really smooth, readable story. I was reminded heavily of Amanda Quick's psychic and paranormal historical romances of the early 2000s (I prefer those). I gathered from other reviews that this author's been in the game a while, so I did question the weaknesses of this book...
My main issues were with cringey dialogue, some behaviors that I found implausible in regency England even for ~societal oddballs, the way Merryn's amnesia\mental suppression was treated, and the extremely hand-wavey paranormal "gifts" some characters have.
The first two I could skim past, and the latter I could kind of roll my eyes at (powers work in mighty convenient ways at convenient times!) but the treatment of Merryn's psychically-sedated state and resulting amnesia for a lot of the book read as... Well. Squicky. Usually amnesiacs in fiction retain language skills, but Merryn's symptoms from her captors' methods presented similar to a learning disability, or a child's intellect. Meanwhile we had Bran, whose POV we are largely in for the first chunk of the book despite the title, acknowledging on-page the consent issues here but also crossing several lines and still lusting after her. It was hard to root for the romance.
That said, there was action, vivid food and historical descriptions, there's research on specific historical events that I now must wiki ‐ the setting and descriptions were well done.
But - those don't make a solid romance read on their own for me.
Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy to review! Silver Lady is out this November 28th.
This was a bit of a mixed bag, though it was largely a really smooth, readable story. I was reminded heavily of Amanda Quick's psychic and paranormal historical romances of the early 2000s (I prefer those). I gathered from other reviews that this author's been in the game a while, so I did question the weaknesses of this book...
My main issues were with cringey dialogue, some behaviors that I found implausible in regency England even for ~societal oddballs, the way Merryn's amnesia\mental suppression was treated, and the extremely hand-wavey paranormal "gifts" some characters have.
The first two I could skim past, and the latter I could kind of roll my eyes at (powers work in mighty convenient ways at convenient times!) but the treatment of Merryn's psychically-sedated state and resulting amnesia for a lot of the book read as... Well. Squicky. Usually amnesiacs in fiction retain language skills, but Merryn's symptoms from her captors' methods presented similar to a learning disability, or a child's intellect. Meanwhile we had Bran, whose POV we are largely in for the first chunk of the book despite the title, acknowledging on-page the consent issues here but also crossing several lines and still lusting after her. It was hard to root for the romance.
That said, there was action, vivid food and historical descriptions, there's research on specific historical events that I now must wiki ‐ the setting and descriptions were well done.
But - those don't make a solid romance read on their own for me.
January 13, 2024
The story opens with Bran Tremayne and the brother of his heart being rescued in London after escaping from a baby farm in Cornwall. All the Tremayne children are gifted in special ways such as amazing intuition and many of them were rejected by their families due to their gifts.
When Bran is informed that he is the only surviving son and heir to the Penheligon family and estates in Cornwall, he is not much interested in the family that rejected him. He's now working for the Home Office and England is about to be at war with the French again. His intuition, however insists the trip will be important both to him personally and to his work. Soon after arriving, he rescues a young woman who barely remembers how to speak, let alone her name and story. Together, they must work out who she is, why she has been kidnapped and what is the risk to Britain that must be overcome.
This is classic Mary Jo Putney. A lovely love story set in a well researched historical setting. I devoured it. It's also the first of a new series which will follow the Tremayned siblings, I think. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
When Bran is informed that he is the only surviving son and heir to the Penheligon family and estates in Cornwall, he is not much interested in the family that rejected him. He's now working for the Home Office and England is about to be at war with the French again. His intuition, however insists the trip will be important both to him personally and to his work. Soon after arriving, he rescues a young woman who barely remembers how to speak, let alone her name and story. Together, they must work out who she is, why she has been kidnapped and what is the risk to Britain that must be overcome.
This is classic Mary Jo Putney. A lovely love story set in a well researched historical setting. I devoured it. It's also the first of a new series which will follow the Tremayned siblings, I think. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
November 23, 2024
So Perfect!
A tale that sweeps you away to Regency times. Romance linked with treason and treachery!
Rhys and Gwyn Tremayne have been rescuing children from the depths of the London stews forever. Bran Tremayne and his companion Cade were two of these. Although it seems they are somewhat different. Like Lady Tremayne they’re gifted, although many see them as from the devil. Gwyn is a finder. Cade can sense trouble. Bran has a strong intuition that senses lines connecting to the truth of a situation.
Twenty-three years later Bran works for the London Home Office.
He receives unwelcome news from his mother Lady Tremayne. A solicitor from Plymouth is looking for a child from that time. A child with a dragon tattoo on his shoulder.
Once an undesirable, his grandfather is reluctantly forced to seek Bran out to come under his auspices. He wants Bran to be trained as his heir. You can imagine what Bran thinks about that!
What Bran discovers is a mother, a sister and later a strange girl unwilling enthralled to a twisted mind, Starling.
The bravery of Girl is startling, her ethereal beauty and and her bravery call to Bran. She is of course gifted.
I’m so looking forward to more in this paranormal regency series.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
A tale that sweeps you away to Regency times. Romance linked with treason and treachery!
Rhys and Gwyn Tremayne have been rescuing children from the depths of the London stews forever. Bran Tremayne and his companion Cade were two of these. Although it seems they are somewhat different. Like Lady Tremayne they’re gifted, although many see them as from the devil. Gwyn is a finder. Cade can sense trouble. Bran has a strong intuition that senses lines connecting to the truth of a situation.
Twenty-three years later Bran works for the London Home Office.
He receives unwelcome news from his mother Lady Tremayne. A solicitor from Plymouth is looking for a child from that time. A child with a dragon tattoo on his shoulder.
Once an undesirable, his grandfather is reluctantly forced to seek Bran out to come under his auspices. He wants Bran to be trained as his heir. You can imagine what Bran thinks about that!
What Bran discovers is a mother, a sister and later a strange girl unwilling enthralled to a twisted mind, Starling.
The bravery of Girl is startling, her ethereal beauty and and her bravery call to Bran. She is of course gifted.
I’m so looking forward to more in this paranormal regency series.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
November 28, 2023
This was a very nice historical fiction story. It’s a quick story that flows nicely.
It has some romance, mystery and intrigue.
It’s book one in a series and I can’t wait to read the next one.
It has some romance, mystery and intrigue.
It’s book one in a series and I can’t wait to read the next one.
July 21, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is a first book in a series by Mary Jo Putney that is a historical romance with a paranormal twist.
This story opens up with a couple, the Tremaynes, out and about during a London night, about to go home after their entertainments, when they follow their senses, to find two street young urchins who have taken to the streets, running away from a baby farm where they were both abandoned. They found kinship with each other, and left before they could die from abuse/neglect at the farm, making their way to London. The boys were abandoned because their families saw them as odd or tainted because they demonstrated paranormal abilities. The couple obviously share this talent, and this helps lead them to the boys, and others like them. They offer the boys a safe haven and a chance at another family.
Move forward many years and the boys have grown up as part of a large family, both blood and adopted, of the Tremaynes, who taught them how to value and control their various gifts. They all grew up in a loving and supportive household, and in turn, give back to Society, albeit in a discreet manner, using their gifts. Bran Tremayne, one of the two boys, from that night, works for the government. But one day, his past comes back to him in the form of a solicitor seeking the son of a baron near Plymouth, who is his last remaining heir, and can be identified by a dragon tattoo on the back. Bran has such a marking, but is reluctant to return to the family who abandoned him. Except his gift gives him some idea that he needs to go to find his family as something significant is to happen there. He has learned over the years to follow his gift.
When he reconnects with his family, it is to find that he has a mother and sister who miss him, but a father who is hard, cold, and demonstrates striking disdain for him, and who does not formally acknowledge him. Bran however is willing to stay around to see how things play out - he can take his birth family/legacy or leave it, as he is neither covetous of the title, or in need of the funds. But he is curious about how the region, and it's people may be linked to his job to protect the safety of England. Perhaps it has something to do with the history of smuggling? His instincts/gift tell him to stay as something significant will happen.
In the mean time, a mysterious young woman is being held and controlled by people in a cottage. She has no sense of who she is, or any ability to control herself, as one of them has stolen her mind, memories, and self will through a gift of their own, involving touching her head. But deep down she still has a spark of self and is aware enough to get away one day, knowing that if she runs and gets away from them, they may not be able to control her any longer.
Bran finds this young woman fleeing her captors in the woods and knows that she is important to his quest. He gives her sanctuary in the house he is staying. Eventually, the longer she is away from her captors, she regains her sense of self, and we learn she is Merryn and has been taken away from her home because she has strong powers of her own, which her captors wanted to use for their own nefarious gain.
This is a sweet brewing love story between Merryn and Bran, with some degree of danger and suspense as Merryn is the target of kidnappers still seeking her out, and Bran is investigating traitorous/treasonous activity, and they may all be linked. Couple this with the mystery and drama of Bran's birth family, as well as a bit of family drama on Merryn's side as well. There is a bit of spy intrigue as Bran and Merryn are involved in a conspiracy involving the French and warfare, linked to the shipyards out of Plymouth harbour. Also there is a secondary love story involving secondary characters that I quite enjoyed as well. I liked the dichotomy of the two families of Bran - the warmth and loving acceptance of his adoptive family versus the rejection by his birth family - specifically his father. The paranormal piece was very light, and ephemeral, versus Tracy Sumner's series of a similar bent, but an interesting element, and I would like to see how it plays out, considering I presume that the other members of the Tremayne's extended family will be featured in future editions (Regency X-Men?)? I appreciated the detail to the history that Ms. Putney brought to the story as well, with the history of Plymouth, and the social dynamics and smuggling.
3.75 stars out of 5
This is a first book in a series by Mary Jo Putney that is a historical romance with a paranormal twist.
This story opens up with a couple, the Tremaynes, out and about during a London night, about to go home after their entertainments, when they follow their senses, to find two street young urchins who have taken to the streets, running away from a baby farm where they were both abandoned. They found kinship with each other, and left before they could die from abuse/neglect at the farm, making their way to London. The boys were abandoned because their families saw them as odd or tainted because they demonstrated paranormal abilities. The couple obviously share this talent, and this helps lead them to the boys, and others like them. They offer the boys a safe haven and a chance at another family.
Move forward many years and the boys have grown up as part of a large family, both blood and adopted, of the Tremaynes, who taught them how to value and control their various gifts. They all grew up in a loving and supportive household, and in turn, give back to Society, albeit in a discreet manner, using their gifts. Bran Tremayne, one of the two boys, from that night, works for the government. But one day, his past comes back to him in the form of a solicitor seeking the son of a baron near Plymouth, who is his last remaining heir, and can be identified by a dragon tattoo on the back. Bran has such a marking, but is reluctant to return to the family who abandoned him. Except his gift gives him some idea that he needs to go to find his family as something significant is to happen there. He has learned over the years to follow his gift.
When he reconnects with his family, it is to find that he has a mother and sister who miss him, but a father who is hard, cold, and demonstrates striking disdain for him, and who does not formally acknowledge him. Bran however is willing to stay around to see how things play out - he can take his birth family/legacy or leave it, as he is neither covetous of the title, or in need of the funds. But he is curious about how the region, and it's people may be linked to his job to protect the safety of England. Perhaps it has something to do with the history of smuggling? His instincts/gift tell him to stay as something significant will happen.
In the mean time, a mysterious young woman is being held and controlled by people in a cottage. She has no sense of who she is, or any ability to control herself, as one of them has stolen her mind, memories, and self will through a gift of their own, involving touching her head. But deep down she still has a spark of self and is aware enough to get away one day, knowing that if she runs and gets away from them, they may not be able to control her any longer.
Bran finds this young woman fleeing her captors in the woods and knows that she is important to his quest. He gives her sanctuary in the house he is staying. Eventually, the longer she is away from her captors, she regains her sense of self, and we learn she is Merryn and has been taken away from her home because she has strong powers of her own, which her captors wanted to use for their own nefarious gain.
This is a sweet brewing love story between Merryn and Bran, with some degree of danger and suspense as Merryn is the target of kidnappers still seeking her out, and Bran is investigating traitorous/treasonous activity, and they may all be linked. Couple this with the mystery and drama of Bran's birth family, as well as a bit of family drama on Merryn's side as well. There is a bit of spy intrigue as Bran and Merryn are involved in a conspiracy involving the French and warfare, linked to the shipyards out of Plymouth harbour. Also there is a secondary love story involving secondary characters that I quite enjoyed as well. I liked the dichotomy of the two families of Bran - the warmth and loving acceptance of his adoptive family versus the rejection by his birth family - specifically his father. The paranormal piece was very light, and ephemeral, versus Tracy Sumner's series of a similar bent, but an interesting element, and I would like to see how it plays out, considering I presume that the other members of the Tremayne's extended family will be featured in future editions (Regency X-Men?)? I appreciated the detail to the history that Ms. Putney brought to the story as well, with the history of Plymouth, and the social dynamics and smuggling.
3.75 stars out of 5
April 24, 2023
Silver Lady by Mary Jo Putney is an entertaining historical romance that is the first in a new series: Dangerous Gifts.
Sometimes you just want to read a good historical romance. You just want to be entertained, enthused, and swept away by passion, drama, romance, and daring escapades. This was one of those books.
I have enjoyed Ms. Putney’s Rogues Redeemed series in the past, so I figured I would start a new series when the opportunity presented itself.
A romance in Cornwall with action, drama, history, hijinks, heroes, spies, intrigue, amnesia, villains, passion and romance to the next level, and a bit of a paranormal vibe…and not a dull moment.
Bran and Merryn were interesting main characters with chemistry and yes the plot can travel to places that aren’t the most realistic, but does one read every book for realism? Nope. And I’m ok with that. A good time was had by all.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/28/23.
Sometimes you just want to read a good historical romance. You just want to be entertained, enthused, and swept away by passion, drama, romance, and daring escapades. This was one of those books.
I have enjoyed Ms. Putney’s Rogues Redeemed series in the past, so I figured I would start a new series when the opportunity presented itself.
A romance in Cornwall with action, drama, history, hijinks, heroes, spies, intrigue, amnesia, villains, passion and romance to the next level, and a bit of a paranormal vibe…and not a dull moment.
Bran and Merryn were interesting main characters with chemistry and yes the plot can travel to places that aren’t the most realistic, but does one read every book for realism? Nope. And I’m ok with that. A good time was had by all.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 11/28/23.
December 3, 2023
My goodness, that read was terrible. Excessive use of exclamation marks what felt like every two sentences was irritating.
November 18, 2023
I love Mary Jo Putney's books. I've read all of the Fallen Angels Series, The Lost Lords, and Rogues Redeemed. This is the start to a new series. Although there have been some mild hints at paranormal in some of her stories, this is truly a fantasy historical world with 'gifted' people. That threw me off a little at first, but then I got into it.
Bran was a wonderful hero. He was smart and kind and good. I appreciated his honor and how well he took care of Merryn without being condescending. Merryn was his perfect match: strong, resilient, and passionate. As I would expect, there were also wonderful secondary characters, villains, and intrigue. I am looking forward to continuing the series and would recommend for any fan of Mary Jo Putney or realistic historical fantasy.
Bran was a wonderful hero. He was smart and kind and good. I appreciated his honor and how well he took care of Merryn without being condescending. Merryn was his perfect match: strong, resilient, and passionate. As I would expect, there were also wonderful secondary characters, villains, and intrigue. I am looking forward to continuing the series and would recommend for any fan of Mary Jo Putney or realistic historical fantasy.
March 13, 2024
Holy info-dump, Batman! It seems like 80% of this book is just describing the magic system of this setting and describing the backstories of a dozen side characters. It gets so repetitive telling the same details over and over again. It’s like the author did that writing exercise and came up with elaborate backgrounds and exposition for EVERYTHING and EVERYONE and then thought, I wrote all this down, I’ll gonna tell it to you,dammit!
Because of that we barely get any character development of the main characters and how they fall in love. They just do cuz it’s vital to the story. But then it doesn’t even. The main plot isn’t about them falling in love. And on top of all that, she has to describe every meal and every little action and the schedules of every character.
Because of that we barely get any character development of the main characters and how they fall in love. They just do cuz it’s vital to the story. But then it doesn’t even. The main plot isn’t about them falling in love. And on top of all that, she has to describe every meal and every little action and the schedules of every character.
August 14, 2024
Is the concept cute? Yes. Was the writing acceptable? I guess, sure. But idk man, the vibes were just super off.
November 15, 2023
Thanks #NetGalley for the advanced copy of #SilverLady by Mary Jo Putney in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very interesting and unique premise for this series and I loved how quickly Putney told this story. She wasted no words and told the story completely in the right amount of words. I enjoy Putney's writing style. This book also really set up the rest of the series and I'm looking forward to reading about the rest of the family and hopefully seeing Bran and Merryn living out their HEA.
This is a very interesting and unique premise for this series and I loved how quickly Putney told this story. She wasted no words and told the story completely in the right amount of words. I enjoy Putney's writing style. This book also really set up the rest of the series and I'm looking forward to reading about the rest of the family and hopefully seeing Bran and Merryn living out their HEA.
May 10, 2023
Silver Lady is a Regency romance with a paranormal subplot, as both lead characters are gifted. I found it an unusual read, different from the usual Regency romance, and a bit boring in some parts.
September 14, 2023
Well written story with a paranormal twist. I look forward to the next one in the series.
October 15, 2025
4/5
I liked it, although the pacing was a bit slow and some of the dialogue felt repetitive at times. A historical romance mixed with a touch of the paranormal, right up my alley. Merryn and Bran were a lovely couple with great chemistry and a beautiful connection. The secondary characters were also well-written and easy to love
I liked it, although the pacing was a bit slow and some of the dialogue felt repetitive at times. A historical romance mixed with a touch of the paranormal, right up my alley. Merryn and Bran were a lovely couple with great chemistry and a beautiful connection. The secondary characters were also well-written and easy to love
May 21, 2024
Silver Lady
Excellent book! I did not want to put it down! It was very exciting and I loved the characters. Bran with his politeness. His sister and her kindness. I really enjoy stories with close family bonds. I can not wait to read the rest of this series.
Excellent book! I did not want to put it down! It was very exciting and I loved the characters. Bran with his politeness. His sister and her kindness. I really enjoy stories with close family bonds. I can not wait to read the rest of this series.
August 15, 2024
I thought this book was well written and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the magic and tender romance in this book. There are a few open door 🌶️ scenes but nothing very intense.
October 27, 2023
3/5. 1`1/28/2023.
Vibes: light magic, amnesia, found family, and a generally fluffier touch.
After being adopted off the streets as a child, the paranormally gifted Bran Tremayne returns to Cornwall on commands from the Home Office. There, he meets the amnesiac Merryn, whose past could hold the key to the mystery he's investigating. Caught between threatening forces, Merryn has no choice but to trust Bran in her efforts to recover her memories and stop a dangerous plot.
This one was very.... meh. I could see the quality of the writing (to an extent--I have my quibbles) and I can definitely see how, for a reader who really loves fluffier books, this will fit the bill. While I can definitely get down with fluff, this took it a bit far for the basic premise, and I found it tonally jarring.
Quick Takes:
--Like I said, I can see that Putney (who I've never read before) has. a very distinct style, and it's clear why she's a popular, longstanding writer. There's a uniqueness to it, and she has a strong, distinct voice. If you like a really bouncy tone, this may be for you. And I did appreciate the aspects of found family; I'm a sucker for "group of kids taken off the street by a wealthy family", and this does execute that component well.
--The way the magic is woven into the story is quite light. Essentially, the former street kids all have these supernatural gifts, which are sort of like... overblown natural talents, with a paranormal edge. I didn't mind the paranormal being on the lighter side. It's definitely something you can see more of in old school books. But she definitely could've gone a little further (and a little more adventurous) with it.
--Part of why the paranormal aspect, and the general story, didn't quite hit for me was that the lightness of the tone really doesn't gel with the plot. You've got mystery, you've got magic. And while you can definitely take a light approach there, this is just. So light! At points, I felt like the subject matter warranted a bit more intensity, a bit more depth. It reminded me of some Julia Quinn books I've read, where it's like--this is kind of dark subject matter, and I think the writing needs to reflect that?
--Because of the generally shallow tone, the leads also come off as pretty flawless. For me, this is very boring. Everyone was really... to quote a show with a stronger paranormal edge, perfectly splendid. This made it so, while I could see Bran and Merryn's chemistry, I really didn't connect with them individually, or their romance.
--A random writing note: Putney uses "!" in a lot of places it really doesn't belong, especially in Merryn's dialogue. I found that kind of distracting.
The Sex:
It's present, but damn if it isn't very, very euphemistic. And you know, I enjoy some euphemistic writers, and I can definitely enjoy it when it's a part of, say, an 80s romance that has a generally flowery style. But in 2023, when you're writing a sex scene this flowery and this euphemistic (and brief) you really might as well just skip the whole scene and keep it closed door. Like, we're not even talking, like "knot of flesh", we are talking "her most sensitive place". I wasn't into it.
Again, I can see why Putney has loyal readers. The vibe just didn't work for me, and it's a shame, because I think the concept itself is so intriguing.
Thanks to Kensington and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Vibes: light magic, amnesia, found family, and a generally fluffier touch.
After being adopted off the streets as a child, the paranormally gifted Bran Tremayne returns to Cornwall on commands from the Home Office. There, he meets the amnesiac Merryn, whose past could hold the key to the mystery he's investigating. Caught between threatening forces, Merryn has no choice but to trust Bran in her efforts to recover her memories and stop a dangerous plot.
This one was very.... meh. I could see the quality of the writing (to an extent--I have my quibbles) and I can definitely see how, for a reader who really loves fluffier books, this will fit the bill. While I can definitely get down with fluff, this took it a bit far for the basic premise, and I found it tonally jarring.
Quick Takes:
--Like I said, I can see that Putney (who I've never read before) has. a very distinct style, and it's clear why she's a popular, longstanding writer. There's a uniqueness to it, and she has a strong, distinct voice. If you like a really bouncy tone, this may be for you. And I did appreciate the aspects of found family; I'm a sucker for "group of kids taken off the street by a wealthy family", and this does execute that component well.
--The way the magic is woven into the story is quite light. Essentially, the former street kids all have these supernatural gifts, which are sort of like... overblown natural talents, with a paranormal edge. I didn't mind the paranormal being on the lighter side. It's definitely something you can see more of in old school books. But she definitely could've gone a little further (and a little more adventurous) with it.
--Part of why the paranormal aspect, and the general story, didn't quite hit for me was that the lightness of the tone really doesn't gel with the plot. You've got mystery, you've got magic. And while you can definitely take a light approach there, this is just. So light! At points, I felt like the subject matter warranted a bit more intensity, a bit more depth. It reminded me of some Julia Quinn books I've read, where it's like--this is kind of dark subject matter, and I think the writing needs to reflect that?
--Because of the generally shallow tone, the leads also come off as pretty flawless. For me, this is very boring. Everyone was really... to quote a show with a stronger paranormal edge, perfectly splendid. This made it so, while I could see Bran and Merryn's chemistry, I really didn't connect with them individually, or their romance.
--A random writing note: Putney uses "!" in a lot of places it really doesn't belong, especially in Merryn's dialogue. I found that kind of distracting.
The Sex:
It's present, but damn if it isn't very, very euphemistic. And you know, I enjoy some euphemistic writers, and I can definitely enjoy it when it's a part of, say, an 80s romance that has a generally flowery style. But in 2023, when you're writing a sex scene this flowery and this euphemistic (and brief) you really might as well just skip the whole scene and keep it closed door. Like, we're not even talking, like "knot of flesh", we are talking "her most sensitive place". I wasn't into it.
Again, I can see why Putney has loyal readers. The vibe just didn't work for me, and it's a shame, because I think the concept itself is so intriguing.
Thanks to Kensington and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 8, 2024
A Delightful Read
Very strong plot. Characters not overdone. The setting is well done. And it's a relaxing read.
Looking forward to the series.
Very strong plot. Characters not overdone. The setting is well done. And it's a relaxing read.
Looking forward to the series.
October 8, 2023
I always enjoy reading MJP's historical romances. This story of 'gifted' characters reminded me of some of my favorite Nora Roberts with elements of magic.
December 16, 2023
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this new series written by Mary Jo Putney, and I’m so grateful. This is my first Putney novel and I’m excited for the opportunity to read her work.
Putney’s writing style is what I crave for: a good mix of dialogue and inner monologue, short-easy-to-read chapters, excellent transitions. Her book was difficult to put down and not at all predictable.
If historical fiction is an interest of yours, you must give this new series a try. Her characters are interesting and realistic, and I personally enjoyed the “gifted” plot.
Thank you to Goodreads for my advanced copy of this book. I now have Mary Jo Putney on my must-read author list and cannot wait to dive in to her work more!
Putney’s writing style is what I crave for: a good mix of dialogue and inner monologue, short-easy-to-read chapters, excellent transitions. Her book was difficult to put down and not at all predictable.
If historical fiction is an interest of yours, you must give this new series a try. Her characters are interesting and realistic, and I personally enjoyed the “gifted” plot.
Thank you to Goodreads for my advanced copy of this book. I now have Mary Jo Putney on my must-read author list and cannot wait to dive in to her work more!
July 17, 2023
The First Step
Mary Jo Putney introduces a new magical romance about found family, and remembering the past. Branok (Bran) was abandoned on the streets as a child after being marked as one of the Gifted. Found and raised by the lovely Tremaynes, he has lived a content life working in the British Home Office. Using his gift of intuition without fear. When his father Lord Penhaligon of Plymouth comes searching for him, Bran is curious to learn about his past. He expected a smuggler’s town, but not a wildly beautiful woman running for her life. Without her memories Merryn is lost, and knows something terrible is going to happen. Together they must recover her memories, and uncover a dangerous plot. Finding love along the way.
Mary Jo Putney’s characters have a magic about them. Some with “gifted” abilities such as persuasion, finding things, or the ability to read people’s natures. Bran’s intuition often tells him the underlying reasons behind people’s emotions. Which helps him understand his estranged family very quickly. He also sees silver strings that link people, and what emotions connect them. This gives him a mysterious and introspective disposition. The meeting with his family goes as expected. As Bran’s father is surly and unpleasant, while his mother is remorseful. Though, Bran is free of any obligations to inherit, he stays because he senses trouble.
In the beginning, Merryn is called “Girl” by her captors, and is kept in a fog of memory loss barely surviving. When she runs for her life, she is swept in the arms of Bran. Who is wonderfully patient and kind as she works to remember her past. Waiting until she regains her memories to act on their passions. What she does remember is her love of horses, and her independent spirit. Gifted as well, she has a lot to learn with the help of Bran and his adopted family.
Silver Lady is a fun introduction to a new regency era Britain, and the magical family that protects it. In a fast passed scenic adventure, with a steamy romance. Mary Jo Putney fills this book with even more of her wonderful characters. Though, the world building and character introductions often interrupt Merryn and Bran’s romance. This is an entertaining introduction to a new romance book series.
Mary Jo Putney introduces a new magical romance about found family, and remembering the past. Branok (Bran) was abandoned on the streets as a child after being marked as one of the Gifted. Found and raised by the lovely Tremaynes, he has lived a content life working in the British Home Office. Using his gift of intuition without fear. When his father Lord Penhaligon of Plymouth comes searching for him, Bran is curious to learn about his past. He expected a smuggler’s town, but not a wildly beautiful woman running for her life. Without her memories Merryn is lost, and knows something terrible is going to happen. Together they must recover her memories, and uncover a dangerous plot. Finding love along the way.
Mary Jo Putney’s characters have a magic about them. Some with “gifted” abilities such as persuasion, finding things, or the ability to read people’s natures. Bran’s intuition often tells him the underlying reasons behind people’s emotions. Which helps him understand his estranged family very quickly. He also sees silver strings that link people, and what emotions connect them. This gives him a mysterious and introspective disposition. The meeting with his family goes as expected. As Bran’s father is surly and unpleasant, while his mother is remorseful. Though, Bran is free of any obligations to inherit, he stays because he senses trouble.
In the beginning, Merryn is called “Girl” by her captors, and is kept in a fog of memory loss barely surviving. When she runs for her life, she is swept in the arms of Bran. Who is wonderfully patient and kind as she works to remember her past. Waiting until she regains her memories to act on their passions. What she does remember is her love of horses, and her independent spirit. Gifted as well, she has a lot to learn with the help of Bran and his adopted family.
Silver Lady is a fun introduction to a new regency era Britain, and the magical family that protects it. In a fast passed scenic adventure, with a steamy romance. Mary Jo Putney fills this book with even more of her wonderful characters. Though, the world building and character introductions often interrupt Merryn and Bran’s romance. This is an entertaining introduction to a new romance book series.
June 15, 2023
Rhys and Gwyn Tremayne, Lord and Lady, collect, protect, and nurture gifted children. One such child Honorable Branok Penhaligon, who they found with Mr Cade Evans. With their natural daughter, Tamsyn, the three were the closest in age and friendship.
Naturally inclined to use their gifts for good both Cade and Bran work as investigators for the home office. As Tremayne's they are honorable, kind, and trustworthy.
When a lawyer arrives looking for Branok Penhaligon, the lost heir to Baron Penhaligon. Bran does not want anything to do with the family that threw him away, however, he knew he had to go to Cornwall for a more dangerous and compelling reasons. His intuition and gifts telling him it was important.
At the Dowager house, he finds part of his intuition come true. He finds a young lady in danger and rescues her. When her so called uncle asks if Bran has seen her, Bran denies it. As the young lady has gifts herself, Bran brings Cade and Tamsyn to Cornwall to help unravel what is going on.
Come relax by the sea, unravel the mystery, and find more than you think. Does Bran become the heir? Does the young lady remember who she is and why she is confused? Will she be the reason for the danger? Do they find the danger? Do they stop the danger?
Learn more in this intriguing, beguiling story. Great characters drama and interactions along with detailed imagery keep you engrossed and wanting to find out what happens next.
Naturally inclined to use their gifts for good both Cade and Bran work as investigators for the home office. As Tremayne's they are honorable, kind, and trustworthy.
When a lawyer arrives looking for Branok Penhaligon, the lost heir to Baron Penhaligon. Bran does not want anything to do with the family that threw him away, however, he knew he had to go to Cornwall for a more dangerous and compelling reasons. His intuition and gifts telling him it was important.
At the Dowager house, he finds part of his intuition come true. He finds a young lady in danger and rescues her. When her so called uncle asks if Bran has seen her, Bran denies it. As the young lady has gifts herself, Bran brings Cade and Tamsyn to Cornwall to help unravel what is going on.
Come relax by the sea, unravel the mystery, and find more than you think. Does Bran become the heir? Does the young lady remember who she is and why she is confused? Will she be the reason for the danger? Do they find the danger? Do they stop the danger?
Learn more in this intriguing, beguiling story. Great characters drama and interactions along with detailed imagery keep you engrossed and wanting to find out what happens next.
November 27, 2023
I read this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review
I don’t know what I had expected to find in this book, reading the synopsis I think I had imagined a story full of adventure, magic and love from an experienced and well respected writer, but what I found was not like that. The story has too many ‘deus ex machina’ moments and the almost complete absence of transitions left me thinking that the story was nothing but a rough draft. I don’t really know what to say about the book. I liked the characters and the setting but that’s it. This book has no romance, no development and little plot. There’s nothing special about the main couple’s growing feelings because these feelings don’t grow, they just exist, for no reason, as if by instinct… there is some hint at predestination, but even that is vague and convenient. It’s a pity because the premise had potential, a lot of potential. At least the adventure was fun.
I don’t know what I had expected to find in this book, reading the synopsis I think I had imagined a story full of adventure, magic and love from an experienced and well respected writer, but what I found was not like that. The story has too many ‘deus ex machina’ moments and the almost complete absence of transitions left me thinking that the story was nothing but a rough draft. I don’t really know what to say about the book. I liked the characters and the setting but that’s it. This book has no romance, no development and little plot. There’s nothing special about the main couple’s growing feelings because these feelings don’t grow, they just exist, for no reason, as if by instinct… there is some hint at predestination, but even that is vague and convenient. It’s a pity because the premise had potential, a lot of potential. At least the adventure was fun.
May 19, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
Such an entrancing story! I was immediately drawn into an English historical romance at it's finest! It was so very hard to put it down.
The characters were very intriguing. The plot was smooth and written in such a manner that I felt I was right there in the middle of the story! The dual POV format is a favorite of mine. Getting that glimpse into the characters thoughts really help me to connect and better understand them as the author hopefully intended.
I adored all of the characters. The supporting members were fantastic and leaving me wanting more stories of this amazing family!
There were just a few sexy scenes. They were written in a way that it was HIGHLY glossed over any details.
Such an entrancing story! I was immediately drawn into an English historical romance at it's finest! It was so very hard to put it down.
The characters were very intriguing. The plot was smooth and written in such a manner that I felt I was right there in the middle of the story! The dual POV format is a favorite of mine. Getting that glimpse into the characters thoughts really help me to connect and better understand them as the author hopefully intended.
I adored all of the characters. The supporting members were fantastic and leaving me wanting more stories of this amazing family!
There were just a few sexy scenes. They were written in a way that it was HIGHLY glossed over any details.
December 18, 2023
Why have this in the regency era when when the manners and morals are everything modern? The gifted or magic that the main and secondary characters have border on super powers you would find in comic books. What in the world has happened to Putney writing? Looks like I will have to read her very backlist to enjoy reading her books.
February 12, 2024
This was an easy, fun read by an author I rediscovered. I remember reading Mary Jo Putney’s
Dearly Beloved, what I’d call a Regency romance, possibly in 1994.
Silver Lady is also a romance with a touch of fantasy added, which I enjoyed.
Dearly Beloved, what I’d call a Regency romance, possibly in 1994.
Silver Lady is also a romance with a touch of fantasy added, which I enjoyed.
July 3, 2024
I liked the paranormal flavor of this book but the ending goes a little too far for me. It's too contrived. Still, I will read the series for the characters.
November 25, 2024
Malefica81 - per RFS
.
Bentornate Fenici!
Bran Tremayne era solo un bambino quando viene trovato, vent’anni prima, in un vicolo buio, sporco e freddo assieme a suo “fratello” Cadan da una coppia. Rhys e Gwyn Tremayne, due famosissimi e potenti sensitivi, adottano i due bambini, anche loro con capacità fuori dal comune.
Bran lavora per il ministero dell’Interno britannico assieme a suo fratello usando le loro doti particolari. Quando i suoi genitori lo avvisano che un avvocato lo ha cercato non vuole credere a quello che l’uomo gli dice, ovvero che è l’ultimo discendente maschio dei Penhaligon e che il suo vero nome è Branok.
Ovviamente il nostro Bran non si fida, ma il legale lo informa di alcune cose che gli fanno cambiare idea, sebbene non voglia avere nulla a che fare con quello che a tutti gli effetti è suo padre naturale.
Decide di andare in Cornovaglia dove incontra una giovane che ha perso la memoria ma da cui si sente attratto perché anche lei ha dei poteri. La ragazza si chiama Merryn Penrose, sparita da casa sua perché rapita da uno zio scellerato e dalla compagna di quest’ultimo, un’altra donna con poteri Esp.
Man mano che la storia procede scoprirete che le persone con doti particolari sono molte e che sono più speciali di quello che si pensa. Bran e Merryn, assieme ai fratelli di lui, alla sorella di sangue e al suo spasimante, l’avvocato Devey, smaschereranno un complotto e un attentato ai danni dell’Impero britannico e ci sarà il lieto fine.
Avevo già letto qualcosa della Putney, quando però ho capito che in questo libro i protagonisti hanno doti particolari non potevo esimermi.
Un romanzo storico con note paranormali è quello che può fare al caso vostro, una storia non pesante come si potrebbe immaginare che fila via liscia senza intoppi. Una buona costruzione dei personaggi, ognuno di loro con una peculiarità particolare e Merryn, beh lei è quella più particolare e interessante. Ovviamente c’è anche la parte romance, con più di una storia d’amore e dato che è il primo di una serie, deduco che scopriremo di Caden, di Tamsyn e di tutti gli altri fratelli Tremayne.
Libro consigliato.
.
Bentornate Fenici!
Bran Tremayne era solo un bambino quando viene trovato, vent’anni prima, in un vicolo buio, sporco e freddo assieme a suo “fratello” Cadan da una coppia. Rhys e Gwyn Tremayne, due famosissimi e potenti sensitivi, adottano i due bambini, anche loro con capacità fuori dal comune.
Bran lavora per il ministero dell’Interno britannico assieme a suo fratello usando le loro doti particolari. Quando i suoi genitori lo avvisano che un avvocato lo ha cercato non vuole credere a quello che l’uomo gli dice, ovvero che è l’ultimo discendente maschio dei Penhaligon e che il suo vero nome è Branok.
Ovviamente il nostro Bran non si fida, ma il legale lo informa di alcune cose che gli fanno cambiare idea, sebbene non voglia avere nulla a che fare con quello che a tutti gli effetti è suo padre naturale.
Decide di andare in Cornovaglia dove incontra una giovane che ha perso la memoria ma da cui si sente attratto perché anche lei ha dei poteri. La ragazza si chiama Merryn Penrose, sparita da casa sua perché rapita da uno zio scellerato e dalla compagna di quest’ultimo, un’altra donna con poteri Esp.
Man mano che la storia procede scoprirete che le persone con doti particolari sono molte e che sono più speciali di quello che si pensa. Bran e Merryn, assieme ai fratelli di lui, alla sorella di sangue e al suo spasimante, l’avvocato Devey, smaschereranno un complotto e un attentato ai danni dell’Impero britannico e ci sarà il lieto fine.
Avevo già letto qualcosa della Putney, quando però ho capito che in questo libro i protagonisti hanno doti particolari non potevo esimermi.
Un romanzo storico con note paranormali è quello che può fare al caso vostro, una storia non pesante come si potrebbe immaginare che fila via liscia senza intoppi. Una buona costruzione dei personaggi, ognuno di loro con una peculiarità particolare e Merryn, beh lei è quella più particolare e interessante. Ovviamente c’è anche la parte romance, con più di una storia d’amore e dato che è il primo di una serie, deduco che scopriremo di Caden, di Tamsyn e di tutti gli altri fratelli Tremayne.
Libro consigliato.
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