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Angel Heart
Devonshire, January 1815.
Marie-Ange, the young widow of an English officer, accepts an inheritance in France only to find that everything in Beauregard is not as it seems. Why is the sinister Malleval so obsessed with her family? And could her darling Christopher still be alive? Marie-Ange finds herself trapped in a dangerous web of lies, intrigue, and mystical possession, and the only person to whom she can turn for help is Capitaine Hugo Saintclair. Yet the enigmatic Hugo represents a danger of a different kind …
Angel Heart is a lavish mix of romance, adventure, and a hint of the supernatural, largely set in France against the turbulent background of Napoleon’s return from Elba.
Marie-Ange, the young widow of an English officer, accepts an inheritance in France only to find that everything in Beauregard is not as it seems. Why is the sinister Malleval so obsessed with her family? And could her darling Christopher still be alive? Marie-Ange finds herself trapped in a dangerous web of lies, intrigue, and mystical possession, and the only person to whom she can turn for help is Capitaine Hugo Saintclair. Yet the enigmatic Hugo represents a danger of a different kind …
Angel Heart is a lavish mix of romance, adventure, and a hint of the supernatural, largely set in France against the turbulent background of Napoleon’s return from Elba.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2012
About the author
Marie Laval
27 books81 followersOriginally from Lyon in France, Marie studied History and Law at university there before moving to Lancashire in England where she worked in a variety of jobs, from PA in a busy university department to teacher of French in schools and colleges. Writing, however, was always her passion, and she spends her free time making up stories. She writes contemporary and historical romance. Her titles include A SPELL IN PROVENCE, ANGEL HEART, THE LION'S EMBRACE and DANCING FOR THE DEVIL, published by Accent Press. Her new romantic comedy, LITTLE PINK TAXI, is published by Choc Lit.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 6, 2022
The death of Marie-Ange Norton’s husband six years prior was a shackle around her neck. She didn’t believe he was dead as his body had never been found after the sinking of the HMS Amazon. Marie-Ange lived in the Norton castle in England, with her brother in law, Robert and when she received notification of an inheritance waiting for her in France, she was instructed to go to Beauregard to sign papers to release it to her. Accompanying her to France was Capitaine Hugo Saintclair, a man who owed a debt to Monsieur Malleval, a long lost relative of Marie-Ange. But trouble would find Marie-Ange on her arrival at Beauregard – the horrors she faced as Malleval’s prisoner found her desperate to escape.
Obsessed to the point of madness, the talk of treasure that only Marie-Ange could find and release, Malleval was a sick and dangerous man. Could Marie-Ange find the treasure that she couldn’t make head nor tail of? Was it something to do with her long-dead mother? Would she escape the hysteria that surrounded France in the days of Napolean’s turbulence?
Angel of the Lost Treasure is an exceptional historical mystery novel by Marie Laval which I thoroughly enjoyed. I recently read Queen of the Desert and loved it, plus I’ve also read some of her others. I’m impressed by this author’s writing and research. Originally titled Angel Heart, Angel of the Lost Treasure is one I highly recommend.
Obsessed to the point of madness, the talk of treasure that only Marie-Ange could find and release, Malleval was a sick and dangerous man. Could Marie-Ange find the treasure that she couldn’t make head nor tail of? Was it something to do with her long-dead mother? Would she escape the hysteria that surrounded France in the days of Napolean’s turbulence?
Angel of the Lost Treasure is an exceptional historical mystery novel by Marie Laval which I thoroughly enjoyed. I recently read Queen of the Desert and loved it, plus I’ve also read some of her others. I’m impressed by this author’s writing and research. Originally titled Angel Heart, Angel of the Lost Treasure is one I highly recommend.
July 6, 2021
I have reveled in Ms. Laval’s rib-tickling rom/coms but this tense historical was not what I was expecting and I struggled to keep all the nefarious factions straight while the characters were battling with each other. There were many clever elements and twists but the storylines were densely packed, complicated, and stuffed to the rafters with unlikable characters with difficult names and unfamiliar titles. I got lost, many times. The little pea in my brain was not pleased with me! This type of historical is obviously not in my wheelhouse and I grappled with a few too many secret clandestine societies to keep track of while they deceived and assaulted each other through a slowly developing plot with occasional jumps of hyperspeed attacks.
My difficulty in fully appreciating this one was obviously down to my personal tastes and interests as the premise was original, the writing was lushly descriptive, and the characters were well-developed despite most being distressingly odious. I chaff at tales that have women treated like livestock. I know it happened but the feminist in me just doesn’t enjoy the reminder.
The various groups were all thundering around the French county side in carriages and on horseback in the freezing snow and fretting about the threatened impending return of Napoleon as well as his enemies and spies, while also trying to outwit and sabotage each other in competing attempts at locating a fabled supernatural relic hidden in a crypt that dated back to the First Crusades and sparked the founding of the Knights of Templar. I felt dashes of several Indiana Jones tales as well as pinches of The Da Vinci Code, and sprinkles of Angels and Demons. And I will confess, didn’t fully grasp all the historical and religious complexities and implications of those tales either.
My difficulty in fully appreciating this one was obviously down to my personal tastes and interests as the premise was original, the writing was lushly descriptive, and the characters were well-developed despite most being distressingly odious. I chaff at tales that have women treated like livestock. I know it happened but the feminist in me just doesn’t enjoy the reminder.
The various groups were all thundering around the French county side in carriages and on horseback in the freezing snow and fretting about the threatened impending return of Napoleon as well as his enemies and spies, while also trying to outwit and sabotage each other in competing attempts at locating a fabled supernatural relic hidden in a crypt that dated back to the First Crusades and sparked the founding of the Knights of Templar. I felt dashes of several Indiana Jones tales as well as pinches of The Da Vinci Code, and sprinkles of Angels and Demons. And I will confess, didn’t fully grasp all the historical and religious complexities and implications of those tales either.
February 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this Regency gothicy, supernatural adventure. It also includes tales of the Knights Templar, another favourite subject of mine. My regency reading so far has been UK based so I loved being able to see it set in France. We have widowed heroines, dashing cavalry men, a dastardly bad guy (several in fact). It's a great romp full of amazing characters. There are lots of twists and turns to keep you reading & I oved the mix of spooky with the idea of eternal life along with the turmoil of Napoleon and the French aristocracy. I loved it and can't wit to see what Marie does next
July 18, 2017
Review of Angel of the Lost Treasure 23/02/2021
Can we first stop for a moment and fully appreciate just how beautiful and haunting this cover is? It’s stunning, and it fits perfectly with the plot.
Anyone who follows the blog will know that I have a soft spot for stories that either includes Templar Knights are a hint at them and the Angel of the Lost Treasure so perfectly entwines Templar myth and history with a wonderfully enthralling adventure and romance which also has an element of paranormal surprise.
I have been a fan of Marie Laval’s work for a few years now, I love her passionate and atmospheric writing and her attention to detail is flawless, the French customs and scenic detail is so rich you could be standing side by side with the characters. I have always love Laval’s charming writing, it sweeps the reader away.
Angel of the Lost Treasure was originally published as; Angel Heart with Accent press, I will admit that I read Angel Heart a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it, but when I voluntarily accepted an advance copy of The Angel and the lost Treasure I wasn’t aware that these two books were one of the same. Literally, all I saw was a new book by Marie Laval and I knew I needed to read it, it was only I started to read that I thought; hmm, this looks familiar and then I read the back blurb and realised, oh, I had read it before, did that stop me from continuing to read?
Not on your aunt Nelly!
I have to admit that I actually enjoyed this new updated and revised edition far more, personally, I think the story is more rounded it’s new and fresh but with the same beautifully portrayed character’s.
Set during the 19th Century, France, we see Widowed Marie-Ange sets out to Beauregard; France to collect a mystery inheritance, she has been invited there by her equally mysterious relative; Monsieur Malleval. Once there it is clear to see that all is not what it appears and that there are ugliness and danger lurking in the shadows.
Malleval is a real pantomime style villain, he is a little unhinged and obsessed with Marie-Ange’s family and her connection certain documents which are connected to the Knights Templar, documents which will lead him to the treasure – you get the idea, imagine Indiana Jones; baddies in search of relics for world domination, dragging in innocent female and handsome heroes along for the ride, with a little paranormal magic thrown in for good measure.
Marie -Ange and Hugh are a wonderfully complicated and utterly adorable couple, the minute that they meet there is an instant attraction between them, the chemistry sizzles, it’s tense and sparks fly between them especially when they are bickering. I found them to be completely likeable, Marie-Ange is a spirited, passionate young woman who I think is a little naïve to the world around her, she has lost her husband at a young age, being half French with aristocratic lineage, she isn’t entirely liked or trusted. Yet she isn’t a wallflower or a damsel, she can look after herself thank you very much. Now, my boy Hugh is the exact different coming from working-class stock, hardworking Hugh is a gruff, monosyllable brooding, gorgeous, sexy, tempting Captaine.
My goodness, he is a handsome, fiery, knee-trembling, clothes ripping, seductive bugger… phew, it’s mighty hot around here 😉
As ever with Laval’s flawless writing, the story flows effortlessly, it intrigues and keeps you guessing right to the last page. I absolutely love Laval’s rich and atmospheric attention to detail, it breathes life into the very bones of the character’s and each scene captures the imagination, you can almost taste the salty sea and see before your eyes the beautiful French countryside.
It isn’t your stereotypical Historical Romance, the plot really keeps you on your toes, it has everything from highway robbery, Templar secret codes, spies and a baddie that may be completely off his rocker but he really does steal the show all mixed in with a charming love story.
With lots of drama, unexpected plot twists, adventure, romance all of which keeps you perched on the edge of your seat wondering where on earth this is going, Angel of the Lost Treasure is a spell-binding book that will be loved by so many.
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Review of Angel Heart July 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and it won’t be the last, I haven’t read a lot of books which has a supernatural undertone and those that I have, haven’t been my cup of tea so I started this with an open mind. But I really didn’t need to worry, Marie Laval has done a great job at building the story up and not overpowering the reader with too much paranormal, in fact I found that side of the story very subtle.
I like how the story is spread over three years with lots of unexpected twists and turns that keeps you gripped to the edge of your seat wondering where on earth this is going and what if our couple is going to get their so much deserved happy ending.
The minute that Marie-Ange and Hugh meet there is an instant attraction between them, the chemistry sizzles between them even when they are bickering, they are a fascinating couple. They are very much chalked and cheese her from a well to do aristocratic French family, and Hugh from a good, hard-working and honest family. They couldn’t be more different, but yet they really work.
I really like this, the story flows effortlessly. It intrigues you with all the various twists that keep you guessing right to the last page, it has got so much more than a regular Historical Romance the plot keeps you on your toes and gets you thinking. It has everything from highway robbery, Templar secret codes, spies and a baddie that may be completely off his rocker but he really does steal the show all mixed in with a charming love story, that has a bit of magic.
I really like Laval's work her attention to detail is flawless especially when it comes to the French areas and customs, she writes with such passion and there is tender, an atmospheric charm to her writing that I have completely been drawn in to and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
I highly recommend this.
This was a complimentary copy from the author in return for an honest review
Can we first stop for a moment and fully appreciate just how beautiful and haunting this cover is? It’s stunning, and it fits perfectly with the plot.
Anyone who follows the blog will know that I have a soft spot for stories that either includes Templar Knights are a hint at them and the Angel of the Lost Treasure so perfectly entwines Templar myth and history with a wonderfully enthralling adventure and romance which also has an element of paranormal surprise.
I have been a fan of Marie Laval’s work for a few years now, I love her passionate and atmospheric writing and her attention to detail is flawless, the French customs and scenic detail is so rich you could be standing side by side with the characters. I have always love Laval’s charming writing, it sweeps the reader away.
Angel of the Lost Treasure was originally published as; Angel Heart with Accent press, I will admit that I read Angel Heart a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it, but when I voluntarily accepted an advance copy of The Angel and the lost Treasure I wasn’t aware that these two books were one of the same. Literally, all I saw was a new book by Marie Laval and I knew I needed to read it, it was only I started to read that I thought; hmm, this looks familiar and then I read the back blurb and realised, oh, I had read it before, did that stop me from continuing to read?
Not on your aunt Nelly!
I have to admit that I actually enjoyed this new updated and revised edition far more, personally, I think the story is more rounded it’s new and fresh but with the same beautifully portrayed character’s.
Set during the 19th Century, France, we see Widowed Marie-Ange sets out to Beauregard; France to collect a mystery inheritance, she has been invited there by her equally mysterious relative; Monsieur Malleval. Once there it is clear to see that all is not what it appears and that there are ugliness and danger lurking in the shadows.
Malleval is a real pantomime style villain, he is a little unhinged and obsessed with Marie-Ange’s family and her connection certain documents which are connected to the Knights Templar, documents which will lead him to the treasure – you get the idea, imagine Indiana Jones; baddies in search of relics for world domination, dragging in innocent female and handsome heroes along for the ride, with a little paranormal magic thrown in for good measure.
Marie -Ange and Hugh are a wonderfully complicated and utterly adorable couple, the minute that they meet there is an instant attraction between them, the chemistry sizzles, it’s tense and sparks fly between them especially when they are bickering. I found them to be completely likeable, Marie-Ange is a spirited, passionate young woman who I think is a little naïve to the world around her, she has lost her husband at a young age, being half French with aristocratic lineage, she isn’t entirely liked or trusted. Yet she isn’t a wallflower or a damsel, she can look after herself thank you very much. Now, my boy Hugh is the exact different coming from working-class stock, hardworking Hugh is a gruff, monosyllable brooding, gorgeous, sexy, tempting Captaine.
My goodness, he is a handsome, fiery, knee-trembling, clothes ripping, seductive bugger… phew, it’s mighty hot around here 😉
As ever with Laval’s flawless writing, the story flows effortlessly, it intrigues and keeps you guessing right to the last page. I absolutely love Laval’s rich and atmospheric attention to detail, it breathes life into the very bones of the character’s and each scene captures the imagination, you can almost taste the salty sea and see before your eyes the beautiful French countryside.
It isn’t your stereotypical Historical Romance, the plot really keeps you on your toes, it has everything from highway robbery, Templar secret codes, spies and a baddie that may be completely off his rocker but he really does steal the show all mixed in with a charming love story.
With lots of drama, unexpected plot twists, adventure, romance all of which keeps you perched on the edge of your seat wondering where on earth this is going, Angel of the Lost Treasure is a spell-binding book that will be loved by so many.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Review of Angel Heart July 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and it won’t be the last, I haven’t read a lot of books which has a supernatural undertone and those that I have, haven’t been my cup of tea so I started this with an open mind. But I really didn’t need to worry, Marie Laval has done a great job at building the story up and not overpowering the reader with too much paranormal, in fact I found that side of the story very subtle.
I like how the story is spread over three years with lots of unexpected twists and turns that keeps you gripped to the edge of your seat wondering where on earth this is going and what if our couple is going to get their so much deserved happy ending.
The minute that Marie-Ange and Hugh meet there is an instant attraction between them, the chemistry sizzles between them even when they are bickering, they are a fascinating couple. They are very much chalked and cheese her from a well to do aristocratic French family, and Hugh from a good, hard-working and honest family. They couldn’t be more different, but yet they really work.
I really like this, the story flows effortlessly. It intrigues you with all the various twists that keep you guessing right to the last page, it has got so much more than a regular Historical Romance the plot keeps you on your toes and gets you thinking. It has everything from highway robbery, Templar secret codes, spies and a baddie that may be completely off his rocker but he really does steal the show all mixed in with a charming love story, that has a bit of magic.
I really like Laval's work her attention to detail is flawless especially when it comes to the French areas and customs, she writes with such passion and there is tender, an atmospheric charm to her writing that I have completely been drawn in to and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
I highly recommend this.
This was a complimentary copy from the author in return for an honest review
July 1, 2021
I’ll readily admit that historical fiction is rarely my first choice of reading – I’m very much a contemporary fiction girl (ok, old woman…!) and I generally only dip in when the experience is softened a little by a contemporary thread and a bit of dual time storytelling. And as for my knowledge of nineteenth century France and the ins and outs of Napoleon’s exile… well I did think I might be a tad out of my comfort zone with this one, however much I’ve enjoyed the author’s other writing. But I’m pleased to tell you that this story absolutely delighted me – I just couldn’t put it down, found it really gripping, and raced through it in a couple of afternoons as I very happily left the present day world behind.
One reason this book worked so very well for me was the strength of the characters. Marie-Ange is an immediately sympathetic heroine, mourning the loss of her husband, watching her home at Norton Place falling into rack and ruin through her lack of the funds to do anything about it. But she has a wonderfully feisty edge about her, taking no nonsense from anyone, and willingly travels with Capitaine Hugo Saintclair to the Beaujolais in pursuit of a rather unexpected legacy. Another reason this book worked so well for me was Hugo himself – he’s not escorting her because of the kindness of his heart, but because of a debt incurred in a card game. He’s distinctly lacking in any softer edges – except where his family’s concerned – very much bad and dangerous to know.
There’s a quite wonderful chemistry between the two of them from their first encounter – and although I have no intention of spoiling the story, that sizzle only increases as the story progresses, with an unexpected bit of gentler romance too, all feeling very real and making your heart (well, my heart anyway…) beat a little faster.
But all the characters in this story are wonderfully drawn. Malleval really is just evil and greed personified, on the edge of madness, a very dangerous man and a villain to spike fear in anyone he encounters – and he does have some pretty frightening henchmen too, particularly the doctor with the mesmerising eyes who begins to haunt Marie-Ange’s dreams.
There are other elements to this book that might just have screamed “you’re not going to like this one” – we’re taken into a world of magic and mysticism, prophecies and relics, all tied in with past generations and the world of the Knights Templar. It’s all quite a convoluted story, but that’s something Marie Laval always manages so well (I do remember that A Paris Fairy Tale had its moments too), holding all the threads very firmly and helping navigate a way through. In parts, it’s really quite disturbing – not enough to give you sleepless nights, but enough to keep you satisfyingly on edge as you read, wondering where the story will take you next. And there are other elements at play too, particularly a surprise encounter that rather turns Marie-Ange’s world upside down – and threatens any possibility of a settled and happy ending for our heroine and hero, although that already looked distinctly unlikely anyway.
The story-telling really is quite excellent – the whole book has a wonderful narrative drive, shocks followed by breathtaking moments, threats to life and immense danger, and it all zips along at a particularly brisk pace. I suspect that there might just have been a few elements of the French political landscape that might have passed me by – and possibly on the Knights Templar front too – but it really didn’t matter one jot. It’s evident that the author really knows her subject, and has meticulously planned every twist and turn – and she does a wonderful job of the setting up the scenes, of making everything feel so very authentic, before moving to the next exciting escape or difficult moment as the story unfolds.
I really, really enjoyed this one – and I’m sure you’ll have picked up that I honestly did have my initial doubts. While I might always be rather more comfortable in the world of little taxis and mobile library vans, it was so good to discover that Marie Laval is an exceptionally accomplished writer of historical fiction too – go on, do give this one a try!
One reason this book worked so very well for me was the strength of the characters. Marie-Ange is an immediately sympathetic heroine, mourning the loss of her husband, watching her home at Norton Place falling into rack and ruin through her lack of the funds to do anything about it. But she has a wonderfully feisty edge about her, taking no nonsense from anyone, and willingly travels with Capitaine Hugo Saintclair to the Beaujolais in pursuit of a rather unexpected legacy. Another reason this book worked so well for me was Hugo himself – he’s not escorting her because of the kindness of his heart, but because of a debt incurred in a card game. He’s distinctly lacking in any softer edges – except where his family’s concerned – very much bad and dangerous to know.
There’s a quite wonderful chemistry between the two of them from their first encounter – and although I have no intention of spoiling the story, that sizzle only increases as the story progresses, with an unexpected bit of gentler romance too, all feeling very real and making your heart (well, my heart anyway…) beat a little faster.
But all the characters in this story are wonderfully drawn. Malleval really is just evil and greed personified, on the edge of madness, a very dangerous man and a villain to spike fear in anyone he encounters – and he does have some pretty frightening henchmen too, particularly the doctor with the mesmerising eyes who begins to haunt Marie-Ange’s dreams.
There are other elements to this book that might just have screamed “you’re not going to like this one” – we’re taken into a world of magic and mysticism, prophecies and relics, all tied in with past generations and the world of the Knights Templar. It’s all quite a convoluted story, but that’s something Marie Laval always manages so well (I do remember that A Paris Fairy Tale had its moments too), holding all the threads very firmly and helping navigate a way through. In parts, it’s really quite disturbing – not enough to give you sleepless nights, but enough to keep you satisfyingly on edge as you read, wondering where the story will take you next. And there are other elements at play too, particularly a surprise encounter that rather turns Marie-Ange’s world upside down – and threatens any possibility of a settled and happy ending for our heroine and hero, although that already looked distinctly unlikely anyway.
The story-telling really is quite excellent – the whole book has a wonderful narrative drive, shocks followed by breathtaking moments, threats to life and immense danger, and it all zips along at a particularly brisk pace. I suspect that there might just have been a few elements of the French political landscape that might have passed me by – and possibly on the Knights Templar front too – but it really didn’t matter one jot. It’s evident that the author really knows her subject, and has meticulously planned every twist and turn – and she does a wonderful job of the setting up the scenes, of making everything feel so very authentic, before moving to the next exciting escape or difficult moment as the story unfolds.
I really, really enjoyed this one – and I’m sure you’ll have picked up that I honestly did have my initial doubts. While I might always be rather more comfortable in the world of little taxis and mobile library vans, it was so good to discover that Marie Laval is an exceptionally accomplished writer of historical fiction too – go on, do give this one a try!
June 28, 2021
The Angel of the Lost Treasure is an historical adventure peppered with romance, fantasy and a touch of the supernatural. This is not your usual historical romance and the combination of genres, with added suspense, make it unique and it all worked together perfectly. It made me think of a think of a classical novel in some scenes with touches of Indiana Jones in another. Set in 19th Century France, the era and the backdrop is perfect and the author did a amazing job of creating atmosphere and intrigue and the feeling of danger lurking around every corner. It is beautifully written and the author has an amazing eye for detail and brought the characters and costumes to life. The storyline is captivating and will keep you guessing until the end.
There is a wide cast of wonderful characters, including a beautiful widow, a dashing hero and of course sinister villains. Capitaine Hugo Saintclair is adorable, he’s handsome, brooding and slightly brusque in manner, the archetypal loveable rogue. The romance with Marie-Ange sizzled and with obvious chemistry between them, sparks flew. Marie-Ange showed that she wasn’t the average damsel in distress, she could certainly stand up for herself and this was apparent in the fabulous highway robbery scene.
A really entertaining book with a thrilling combination of action, suspense, fantasy and romance. The historical aspects and details about France have been well researched and the author’s attention to detail is marvellous. A fascinating story which is fast-moving and absorbing and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. This is my first time reading any of this author’s work and I enjoyed her vivid and imaginative writing style and I will definitely be on the look out for her other work. The cover is also quite beautiful.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted eARC and to Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me on the blog tour.
TWISTED IN PAGES BLOG
There is a wide cast of wonderful characters, including a beautiful widow, a dashing hero and of course sinister villains. Capitaine Hugo Saintclair is adorable, he’s handsome, brooding and slightly brusque in manner, the archetypal loveable rogue. The romance with Marie-Ange sizzled and with obvious chemistry between them, sparks flew. Marie-Ange showed that she wasn’t the average damsel in distress, she could certainly stand up for herself and this was apparent in the fabulous highway robbery scene.
A really entertaining book with a thrilling combination of action, suspense, fantasy and romance. The historical aspects and details about France have been well researched and the author’s attention to detail is marvellous. A fascinating story which is fast-moving and absorbing and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. This is my first time reading any of this author’s work and I enjoyed her vivid and imaginative writing style and I will definitely be on the look out for her other work. The cover is also quite beautiful.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted eARC and to Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me on the blog tour.
TWISTED IN PAGES BLOG
July 20, 2013
Feb.21, 2013
Review
by Linda Hays-Gibbs of
Angel Heart
By Marie Laval
Marie-Ange was a poor widow of Christopher Norton for six lonely years. She is desperate for money as her estate is falling down around her and her young brother in law, Robert's head. She is given notice that a relative if hers has died in France and all she has to do to claim this much needed money is travel to France and sign some papers. She feels she has no choice but to go.
Hugo Saintclair is a self made French Captain of the ship that takes Marie-Ange to France. There is an immediate attraction between her and Saintclair. She has vowed to grieve for her husband until she dies until she looks into the blue eyes of the Captain.
Then she discovers that her husband might not be dead, after all. This is just the start of a very exciting and mysterious adventure. You learn to love and grieve for these two star crossed lovers. They have a very hard time just staying alive much less loving each other.
I was captivated by the determination and courage of Marie-Ange but frustrated with her trust and innocence. She was a fast and furious heroine though, despite her many problems.
Hugo rescued her so many times I lost count and although he was brave and heroic as well as handsome, he was stubborn and always had a point to make.
He seemed to have an inferiority complex that inspired him on to do great things and become the heroic figure he was. I must say that I fell in love with him too.
In this inspiring love story set in Regency England and France there was great turmoil in the world and the author added legends and supernatural occurrences too. It was very unusual and interesting.
The characters and the plot were very well thought out and fully fleshed.
You even felt sorry for the evil Maleval. Even his name told you this was not a nice man but he had his obsessions too.
I really enjoyed this exciting mysterious paranormal regency romance. I look forward to more stories from this author. I give her five stars out of five for an excellent read.
Review
by Linda Hays-Gibbs of
Angel Heart
By Marie Laval
Marie-Ange was a poor widow of Christopher Norton for six lonely years. She is desperate for money as her estate is falling down around her and her young brother in law, Robert's head. She is given notice that a relative if hers has died in France and all she has to do to claim this much needed money is travel to France and sign some papers. She feels she has no choice but to go.
Hugo Saintclair is a self made French Captain of the ship that takes Marie-Ange to France. There is an immediate attraction between her and Saintclair. She has vowed to grieve for her husband until she dies until she looks into the blue eyes of the Captain.
Then she discovers that her husband might not be dead, after all. This is just the start of a very exciting and mysterious adventure. You learn to love and grieve for these two star crossed lovers. They have a very hard time just staying alive much less loving each other.
I was captivated by the determination and courage of Marie-Ange but frustrated with her trust and innocence. She was a fast and furious heroine though, despite her many problems.
Hugo rescued her so many times I lost count and although he was brave and heroic as well as handsome, he was stubborn and always had a point to make.
He seemed to have an inferiority complex that inspired him on to do great things and become the heroic figure he was. I must say that I fell in love with him too.
In this inspiring love story set in Regency England and France there was great turmoil in the world and the author added legends and supernatural occurrences too. It was very unusual and interesting.
The characters and the plot were very well thought out and fully fleshed.
You even felt sorry for the evil Maleval. Even his name told you this was not a nice man but he had his obsessions too.
I really enjoyed this exciting mysterious paranormal regency romance. I look forward to more stories from this author. I give her five stars out of five for an excellent read.
October 3, 2015
Angel Heart by Marie Laval
Ms. Laval offers up a fascinating historical romance that’s intricately spiced with mystical intrigue and harrowing adventure. The backdrop is early 19th century France where political unrest is still a constant, and sympathies are well divided between the royalists and the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte.
When Marie-Ange Norton, the widow of an English officer, is summoned by a distant relative in France to claim her share of an inheritance, she believes it is the answer to her strained financial situation and saving her home in Devonshire, England. Capitaine Hugo Saintclair, a French cuirassier officer, is tasked with escorting Mrs. Norton to the Beauregard Estate in Lyon, France, and that’s when the trouble begins. There is instant chemistry between Marie-Ange and Saintclair, but things are not so easy for them as they face a bevy of dangerous threats, not the least of which, is Marie-Ange’s mad relative, Uxeloup Malleval, who is obsessed with obtaining the secret to eternal life, at any cost.
Further complicating their situation is the question of Marie-Ange’s dead husband, who may not have died after all. And despite the smoldering attraction between she and the Capitaine, Marie-Ange still harbors a deep seated hope that her husband is indeed alive, and that he will return to her as the same man she lost six years prior.
The odds are certainly against these two strangers from very different lives, but through their shared trials an epic love story emerges, and the ride is certainly worth it in the end. Ms. Laval renders the settings with a deft pen, and it is clear she has the research well in hand. The supernatural mystery of the story is especially fascinating, and kept me turning the pages late into the night.
From the blustery cliffs of Devonshire, to d’Arginy Castle, and on to Algiers, Angel Heart is a wonderful story that I highly recommend for fans of historical romance who especially love supernatural undertones, and a touch of gothic.
I’m looking forward to reading more stories by this author. Well done Marie Laval!
Ms. Laval offers up a fascinating historical romance that’s intricately spiced with mystical intrigue and harrowing adventure. The backdrop is early 19th century France where political unrest is still a constant, and sympathies are well divided between the royalists and the exiled Napoleon Bonaparte.
When Marie-Ange Norton, the widow of an English officer, is summoned by a distant relative in France to claim her share of an inheritance, she believes it is the answer to her strained financial situation and saving her home in Devonshire, England. Capitaine Hugo Saintclair, a French cuirassier officer, is tasked with escorting Mrs. Norton to the Beauregard Estate in Lyon, France, and that’s when the trouble begins. There is instant chemistry between Marie-Ange and Saintclair, but things are not so easy for them as they face a bevy of dangerous threats, not the least of which, is Marie-Ange’s mad relative, Uxeloup Malleval, who is obsessed with obtaining the secret to eternal life, at any cost.
Further complicating their situation is the question of Marie-Ange’s dead husband, who may not have died after all. And despite the smoldering attraction between she and the Capitaine, Marie-Ange still harbors a deep seated hope that her husband is indeed alive, and that he will return to her as the same man she lost six years prior.
The odds are certainly against these two strangers from very different lives, but through their shared trials an epic love story emerges, and the ride is certainly worth it in the end. Ms. Laval renders the settings with a deft pen, and it is clear she has the research well in hand. The supernatural mystery of the story is especially fascinating, and kept me turning the pages late into the night.
From the blustery cliffs of Devonshire, to d’Arginy Castle, and on to Algiers, Angel Heart is a wonderful story that I highly recommend for fans of historical romance who especially love supernatural undertones, and a touch of gothic.
I’m looking forward to reading more stories by this author. Well done Marie Laval!
January 29, 2021
If you're in the mood for a historical romance with numerous twists and turns, look no farther - this one will be perfect. It's set mostly in France at the end of the Premier Empire (First French Empire/Napoleonic Empire), so it's the same time period as the UK's Regency but, if you associate that with "young heiresses and titled men meeting at a ball", this is not the same at all - there's much more adventure and mystery.
I particularly liked the use of the Comte de Saint-Germain's supposed immortality, and the clues the heroine didn't even realise she had to find the "lost treasure" that the villain wanted.
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day. This is a spoiler-free, aimed-at-potential-readers version of what I wrote in my original feedback.
I particularly liked the use of the Comte de Saint-Germain's supposed immortality, and the clues the heroine didn't even realise she had to find the "lost treasure" that the villain wanted.
This book was one of my reads for Choc Lit & Ruby Fiction's Tasting Panel (a group of ordinary, volunteer readers that helps the publisher select the best stories). Then I was offered an advance copy so I could read the final version and write a review without waiting for publication day. This is a spoiler-free, aimed-at-potential-readers version of what I wrote in my original feedback.
July 5, 2021
An evocative historical romance with mystical and sometimes malevolent twists, set in Napoleonic France at a time of political intrigue and social unrest.
The characters are complex and vibrant. Courageous Marie-Ange is independently minded despite her naivety. Hugh is honourable and brave, with a kind heart hidden behind his arrogant facade. Malleval is an arch-villain clever and dangerous with a team of evil followers.
The story is full of secrets and surprises with connections to the Knight's Templar and the mystic that surrounds them. It explores good and evil in an adventurous and romantic style with pertinent historical detail and a wonderful sense of time and place.
The romance sizzles from the couple's first encounter. Despite the undercurrents of passion, the romance is courtly and gentle and full of conflict. The mystery and mysticism are what makes this story resonate. It's the perfect way to escape to a time of adventure, deceit and romance.
I received a copy of this book from Choc-lit and the author in return for an honest review.
December 27, 2018
A lovely read, with plenty of action and romance! The plot is rich with well researched details of France and as a reader you feel yourself being pulled into Marie-Ange’s journey. I’m looking forward to exploring more of Marie Laval’s work 😊.
October 12, 2017
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
'Absolutely worth reading and I feel there is more to come from this author.'
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
'Absolutely worth reading and I feel there is more to come from this author.'
February 14, 2013
Angel Heart by Marie Laval is a stunning piece of historical romantic suspense, exquisitely written and lovingly told, against the backdrop of the close of the Napoleonic era in France. Although a few scenes take place in England, the story unfolds mostly in France,.
In the opening chapters of the novel, we meet Marie Ange Norton, (nee Jones), a young widow, still in her early twenties, widowed tragically young. She continues to wear mourning and lives in seclusion, cherishing sweet memories of a husband she’d just been getting to know when he was tragically killed in battle off the Spanish coast. We may not initially realize it, but her memories are tinged with idealism. Christopher was the perfect lover and the perfect husband. She loves her late husband’s younger brother and treats him as her own brother, all too aware that he will soon leave her and follow his elder brother into the Royal Navy. The brother and sister-in-law, the last of their family, live in crumbling mansion on the coastline of England. However, the arrival of a French ship in the neighbourhood bearing the enigmatic French Army officer Hugo Santclair changes Marie Ange’s secluded existence forever, although she’s not aware of it at the time. Capitaine Saintclair bears news of the demise Marie Ange’s step grandfather, the notorious Edmond Malleval. Malleval has, it seems, left Marie Ange some bequest. She is now required to accompany the Capitaine to France to meet her step uncle, Uxeloup Malleval (don’t you just love that name!) and complete some routine formalities. The journey to Malleval’s home in France is hazardous, first a ship journey, then a long drive by carriage, encountering unknown dangers along the way, such as highwaymen. France, with its monarchy newly re-established, is a dangerous place and it is hard to know who is a friend or a foe. Marie Ange, having lived a simple life up to know, is not at all attracted to the handsome Capitaine, finding him somewhat worldly and repulsive.
The story takes an interesting turn when Marie Ange spots a man who looks and sounds exactly like her late husband, who doesn’t seem to recognize her. Either the man is an exact double, or her husband didn’t die after all. Her relative Uxeloup Malleval turns out to be a dark character indeed and he has some dastardly plans for Marie Ange. Finding herself in a hotbed of intrigue and danger, she finds that Malleval and his ghastly friend Karloff are more than a little interested in her late mother’s locket and sketch book. A mystery worthy of the Da Vinci Code ensues, involving hidden treasures, Knights Templar and the like. Marie Ange also uncovers mysteries from her past such as her true parentage. There were delicious chills and excitement in abundance, adding up to a thrilling read.
What is particularly interesting is the development of the characters, how they grow and change in the course of the story. Capitaine Santclair, a man of humble origin who has risen to be an officer in Napoleon’s army, shows a perfect example of how a cynical, war weary, worldly man can turn into a passionate, valiant and faithful lover. Marie Ange is so simple and unworldly that at first the Capitaine suspects her of duplicity, wearing the mask of a grieving widow while pursuing affairs in secret. The realization that Marie Ange is exactly what she shows herself to be – woman still in love with her dead husband – has a strange effect indeed on this man. But as the story progresses, Marie Ange shows her inner strength, metamorphosing from being a simple, gentle girl widow to a feisty woman, ready to fight to defend herself and even to kill when put to the test. As the story develops, she transforms, in the eyes of the world, from a grieving widow to a lover and most astonishingly, as a runaway wife. The ultimate irony, in a way. Discovering that she may not, after all, be a widow, would have brought joy to her life at the opening of the story, but as her relationship with the capitaine develops, it complicates things..
As a lifelong enthusiast of all things French, language, culture and history, I was struck by how authentically French the novel felt. The author voice was perfectly clear and expressive in English, yet it had a French ring to it. I was not surprised to learn that the author is a Frenchwoman.
There is a slight supernatural twist to the story too and this only added to the pleasure of reading. There is a lot to recommend this book and I hope that it is widely read and enjoyed.
In the opening chapters of the novel, we meet Marie Ange Norton, (nee Jones), a young widow, still in her early twenties, widowed tragically young. She continues to wear mourning and lives in seclusion, cherishing sweet memories of a husband she’d just been getting to know when he was tragically killed in battle off the Spanish coast. We may not initially realize it, but her memories are tinged with idealism. Christopher was the perfect lover and the perfect husband. She loves her late husband’s younger brother and treats him as her own brother, all too aware that he will soon leave her and follow his elder brother into the Royal Navy. The brother and sister-in-law, the last of their family, live in crumbling mansion on the coastline of England. However, the arrival of a French ship in the neighbourhood bearing the enigmatic French Army officer Hugo Santclair changes Marie Ange’s secluded existence forever, although she’s not aware of it at the time. Capitaine Saintclair bears news of the demise Marie Ange’s step grandfather, the notorious Edmond Malleval. Malleval has, it seems, left Marie Ange some bequest. She is now required to accompany the Capitaine to France to meet her step uncle, Uxeloup Malleval (don’t you just love that name!) and complete some routine formalities. The journey to Malleval’s home in France is hazardous, first a ship journey, then a long drive by carriage, encountering unknown dangers along the way, such as highwaymen. France, with its monarchy newly re-established, is a dangerous place and it is hard to know who is a friend or a foe. Marie Ange, having lived a simple life up to know, is not at all attracted to the handsome Capitaine, finding him somewhat worldly and repulsive.
The story takes an interesting turn when Marie Ange spots a man who looks and sounds exactly like her late husband, who doesn’t seem to recognize her. Either the man is an exact double, or her husband didn’t die after all. Her relative Uxeloup Malleval turns out to be a dark character indeed and he has some dastardly plans for Marie Ange. Finding herself in a hotbed of intrigue and danger, she finds that Malleval and his ghastly friend Karloff are more than a little interested in her late mother’s locket and sketch book. A mystery worthy of the Da Vinci Code ensues, involving hidden treasures, Knights Templar and the like. Marie Ange also uncovers mysteries from her past such as her true parentage. There were delicious chills and excitement in abundance, adding up to a thrilling read.
What is particularly interesting is the development of the characters, how they grow and change in the course of the story. Capitaine Santclair, a man of humble origin who has risen to be an officer in Napoleon’s army, shows a perfect example of how a cynical, war weary, worldly man can turn into a passionate, valiant and faithful lover. Marie Ange is so simple and unworldly that at first the Capitaine suspects her of duplicity, wearing the mask of a grieving widow while pursuing affairs in secret. The realization that Marie Ange is exactly what she shows herself to be – woman still in love with her dead husband – has a strange effect indeed on this man. But as the story progresses, Marie Ange shows her inner strength, metamorphosing from being a simple, gentle girl widow to a feisty woman, ready to fight to defend herself and even to kill when put to the test. As the story develops, she transforms, in the eyes of the world, from a grieving widow to a lover and most astonishingly, as a runaway wife. The ultimate irony, in a way. Discovering that she may not, after all, be a widow, would have brought joy to her life at the opening of the story, but as her relationship with the capitaine develops, it complicates things..
As a lifelong enthusiast of all things French, language, culture and history, I was struck by how authentically French the novel felt. The author voice was perfectly clear and expressive in English, yet it had a French ring to it. I was not surprised to learn that the author is a Frenchwoman.
There is a slight supernatural twist to the story too and this only added to the pleasure of reading. There is a lot to recommend this book and I hope that it is widely read and enjoyed.
March 23, 2015
I thought this book was fairly good, it had a nice storyline to it, mixing turmoil of Napoleon wanting to take France back with the long lost relatives finding they're actually have large amounts of money in France they knew nothing about & throwing in a little bit of magic & Knights Templar history & secrets. I was slightly disappointed with this book as there were so many similarities between this one & Lion's Embrace and the hero has the same nickname to do with Lion's strength, also the same surnames Saintclair & French home are used in both books which I found a little confusing at times.
Marie-Ange is the widow of an English naval officer, who finds out via a letter inviting her to France to sign inheritance papers for some property which belonged to her mother & she finds she has living relatives who can tell her more about her mother, who sadly died when she was young. She was married to Christopher Norton for 4 months before he was declared dead after his ship was sunk & all were declared dead, lost at sea. However when Marie-Ange is escorted to France by French naval officer Capitaine Hugo Saintclair who is actually escorting her to claim her inheritance to pay off a gambling debt owed to her relative Malleval. Everything seems above board until Marie-Ange arrives in France & finds her relative is slightly insane & convinced that an old family story about some secret Knights Templar secret icon is hidden at Beauregard that could cure his illness & make him immortal. Pretty strong similarities between The Da Vinci Code & her previous book come in here, with having to follow clues to find the icon before the relative can get to it first.
Whilst in France she is sure she saw her dead husband & Hugo tries to make her see that it could just be similar looks but she is convinced the man she's seen a few times is her beloved husband so Hugo agrees to help her find out if it really is her husband, whilst fighting the day to day chaos in the Malleval house as her relative's behaviour becomes more erratic as his illness takes hold of him & he gets more desperate to find the icon & Hugo realises that Malleval hasn't told Marie-Ange the truth.
I would recommend reading this book but I would say if you're going to read her other books don't do as I did & read Lion's Embrace & then read Angel Heart one after the other as there are quite a few similarities that you maybe confused as to which one you are reading.
Marie-Ange is the widow of an English naval officer, who finds out via a letter inviting her to France to sign inheritance papers for some property which belonged to her mother & she finds she has living relatives who can tell her more about her mother, who sadly died when she was young. She was married to Christopher Norton for 4 months before he was declared dead after his ship was sunk & all were declared dead, lost at sea. However when Marie-Ange is escorted to France by French naval officer Capitaine Hugo Saintclair who is actually escorting her to claim her inheritance to pay off a gambling debt owed to her relative Malleval. Everything seems above board until Marie-Ange arrives in France & finds her relative is slightly insane & convinced that an old family story about some secret Knights Templar secret icon is hidden at Beauregard that could cure his illness & make him immortal. Pretty strong similarities between The Da Vinci Code & her previous book come in here, with having to follow clues to find the icon before the relative can get to it first.
Whilst in France she is sure she saw her dead husband & Hugo tries to make her see that it could just be similar looks but she is convinced the man she's seen a few times is her beloved husband so Hugo agrees to help her find out if it really is her husband, whilst fighting the day to day chaos in the Malleval house as her relative's behaviour becomes more erratic as his illness takes hold of him & he gets more desperate to find the icon & Hugo realises that Malleval hasn't told Marie-Ange the truth.
I would recommend reading this book but I would say if you're going to read her other books don't do as I did & read Lion's Embrace & then read Angel Heart one after the other as there are quite a few similarities that you maybe confused as to which one you are reading.
October 12, 2015
Marie-Ange Norton is summoned to France, ostensibly to claim an inheritance which was hers by right of birth. Her now impoverished state is largely due to her husband's mysterious disappearance whilst fighting in the Napoleonic wars, leaving her in desperate financial need. In order to maintain the family home, for Robert, her husband's younger brother, Marie-Ange must make the difficult journey to her, as yet unknown, relative in France.
Capitaine Hugo Saintclair, a French cuirassier officer, is charged with the responsibility of getting Marie-Ange safely to her destination, namely, the Beauregard Estate in Lyon, France, where she hopes to meet with her relative, Uxeloup Malleval. However, the journey to Lyon is fraught with obstacles and Marie-Ange finds herself relying more and more on the gallant Capitaine's support.
Set in 1815, against the backdrop of the latter years of Napoleonic rule, both time and place is captured really well and there is a distinct sense of excitement, particularly for Marie-Ange, who is a feisty and determined protagonist. From the outset all is not well at Beauregard and her malevolent and scheming relative, Malleval has ideas for Marie Ange's future which seem to have no basis in reality.
I found the book absorbing, with a nice blend of fast-moving thriller and passionate romance and with more than enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the end. The politics of the time are nicely explained, and the inherent danger which confronts Marie-Ange is told in an imaginative mix of suspense and mystical superstition. The story thrives on danger and political intrigue, but, it is in the burgeoning romance between Marie-Ange and Hugo where the story starts to tug away at the heartstrings. I so wanted everything to work out for them, and with this forefront in my mind, I raced through the story with great enjoyment.
Beautifully written, with a fine eye for detail, Angel Heart combines love, loss, betrayal and shocking family secrets in a story which captivates to the very end.
Capitaine Hugo Saintclair, a French cuirassier officer, is charged with the responsibility of getting Marie-Ange safely to her destination, namely, the Beauregard Estate in Lyon, France, where she hopes to meet with her relative, Uxeloup Malleval. However, the journey to Lyon is fraught with obstacles and Marie-Ange finds herself relying more and more on the gallant Capitaine's support.
Set in 1815, against the backdrop of the latter years of Napoleonic rule, both time and place is captured really well and there is a distinct sense of excitement, particularly for Marie-Ange, who is a feisty and determined protagonist. From the outset all is not well at Beauregard and her malevolent and scheming relative, Malleval has ideas for Marie Ange's future which seem to have no basis in reality.
I found the book absorbing, with a nice blend of fast-moving thriller and passionate romance and with more than enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the end. The politics of the time are nicely explained, and the inherent danger which confronts Marie-Ange is told in an imaginative mix of suspense and mystical superstition. The story thrives on danger and political intrigue, but, it is in the burgeoning romance between Marie-Ange and Hugo where the story starts to tug away at the heartstrings. I so wanted everything to work out for them, and with this forefront in my mind, I raced through the story with great enjoyment.
Beautifully written, with a fine eye for detail, Angel Heart combines love, loss, betrayal and shocking family secrets in a story which captivates to the very end.
August 20, 2013
Marie-Ange a widow? But is she really a widow? Besides mourning her husband, she is almost out of money, and her home is falling apart.
Her money problems may become solved because of an inheritance. A connection to her mother wrote and strongly suggested Marie-Ange travel to France to obtain her inheritance, and her adventures began....adventures both good as well as dangerous. Being a lady, she is not allowed to travel alone. She is accompanied by Capitaine Saintclair. When she safely arrives, she finds out her inheritance was a ploy to get her to tell Uxeloup, an evil man who is dying, where the Cross of Life is. Marie-Ange really has no idea, but plays along to save her life. ANGEL HEART follows Marie-Ange through her life describing the many adventures she encounters or creates for herself.
The book is well written and detailed. There are a lot of unsavory, devious characters and many secrets for Marie-Ange to find out. Secrets about who her father really is, secrets about what really happened to her mother, and secrets about why everyone wanted to possess the Cross of Life.
Marie-Ange was a bit naive but very strong willed. Christopher, her husband, turned out to be an evil person. Captaine Saintclaire was a bit unsavory, but interesting enough to be liked.
I enjoyed the book, even though it was a bit long. The lengthy book was worth it, though, because just when the book became a little too detailed and you were ready to give up Ms. Laval skillfully threw in a teaser or tidbit to keep you reading.
If you enjoy a good romance, mystery, fantasy, and history ANGEL HEART fits the bill. ANGEL HEART kept my interest with the ending pages being the best part with a good deal of tension and intrigue. 4/5
I received this book free of charge and without compensation from the author in return for an honest review.
Her money problems may become solved because of an inheritance. A connection to her mother wrote and strongly suggested Marie-Ange travel to France to obtain her inheritance, and her adventures began....adventures both good as well as dangerous. Being a lady, she is not allowed to travel alone. She is accompanied by Capitaine Saintclair. When she safely arrives, she finds out her inheritance was a ploy to get her to tell Uxeloup, an evil man who is dying, where the Cross of Life is. Marie-Ange really has no idea, but plays along to save her life. ANGEL HEART follows Marie-Ange through her life describing the many adventures she encounters or creates for herself.
The book is well written and detailed. There are a lot of unsavory, devious characters and many secrets for Marie-Ange to find out. Secrets about who her father really is, secrets about what really happened to her mother, and secrets about why everyone wanted to possess the Cross of Life.
Marie-Ange was a bit naive but very strong willed. Christopher, her husband, turned out to be an evil person. Captaine Saintclaire was a bit unsavory, but interesting enough to be liked.
I enjoyed the book, even though it was a bit long. The lengthy book was worth it, though, because just when the book became a little too detailed and you were ready to give up Ms. Laval skillfully threw in a teaser or tidbit to keep you reading.
If you enjoy a good romance, mystery, fantasy, and history ANGEL HEART fits the bill. ANGEL HEART kept my interest with the ending pages being the best part with a good deal of tension and intrigue. 4/5
I received this book free of charge and without compensation from the author in return for an honest review.
November 24, 2012
Move over Dan Brown, here comes Marie Laval. Her début novel set in England, France and Algeris, in the 1800's,will pull you in and refuse to let you go until you reach the last page and they will leave you wanting more.
You'll follow Marie-Ange on her trip from England to France under the escort of Capitaine Saintclair, fall in love with him as he rescues her from deranged lunatic obsessed by an secret relic brought to France by Templars, we learn of secret templars society, the protectors of ancient order, the guardians. Marie-Ange learns too she wasn't a widow as she thought to be for the past six years, though in her heart, she never truly believed it. But her husband, once dear, loving man, is now something else, a cruel, cold-blooded killer. She also discovers the man who raised her, the only father she knew, could not be the man who fathered her. She reunites with her real father and learns a lot more that she was prepared to know. If she embarked on her journey as a somewhat naive girl, easily lured to France by a prospect of inheritance, she quickly learns she must adapt to her fast changing situations. By the end of the book she is nobody's fool.
The book is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing what's next and you'll have to read on to find out. There's no putting this book down until it's done.
You'll follow Marie-Ange on her trip from England to France under the escort of Capitaine Saintclair, fall in love with him as he rescues her from deranged lunatic obsessed by an secret relic brought to France by Templars, we learn of secret templars society, the protectors of ancient order, the guardians. Marie-Ange learns too she wasn't a widow as she thought to be for the past six years, though in her heart, she never truly believed it. But her husband, once dear, loving man, is now something else, a cruel, cold-blooded killer. She also discovers the man who raised her, the only father she knew, could not be the man who fathered her. She reunites with her real father and learns a lot more that she was prepared to know. If she embarked on her journey as a somewhat naive girl, easily lured to France by a prospect of inheritance, she quickly learns she must adapt to her fast changing situations. By the end of the book she is nobody's fool.
The book is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing what's next and you'll have to read on to find out. There's no putting this book down until it's done.
July 6, 2021
What a fun ride this story was!
Marie-Ange Norton, the widow of a British Naval Officer, has been invited to France, to the home of her ancestors, by their new owner, Uxeloup Malleval. She has an unexpected inheritance to collect, but must sign the deeds in person. With her own crumbling manor requiring work, and her 18-year-old brother-in-law dreaming of a commission to join the Navy, she has no choice but to accept.
Malleval sends dashing Cuirassier Hugo Saintclair to accompany her safely across the channel and France. Marie-Ange is unimpressed by the officer's haughty attitude and keeps herself to herself – not easy when travelling together at close distance. And things are not as they seem.
On her arrival at Beauregard, her mother's family's stately home in Burgundy, she is shocked to discover that, in order to claim her inheritance, she is forced to help unlock an old family secret. Apparently, she knows the hiding place of an ancient Templar relic that is buried somewhere in the grounds. A relic Malleval, who is suffering from a mystery illness, desperately wants.
But Marie-Ange only vaguely remembers the words of a lullaby her mother, who died when she was a small girl, taught her. Looking through her mother's drawings, she suddenly spots hints she never noticed before. But she could never share her discoveries with Malleval, or his creepy sidekick, Doctor Karloff (a very suitable name), who tries to hypnotise her.
Finding herself a virtual prisoner of Malleval, Marie-Ange devises ways of escaping him and discovering the secret herself. But to do that she needs Hugo's help. And he poses another danger – one to her own heart.
And then there's still the question of her missing husband...
There are so many brilliant twists and turns in this fabulous story, you can barely pause to take a breath. You get a real sense of adventure, a hint of Indiana Jones, and of conspiracy and intrigues. The pace is relentless, and poor Marie-Ange is thrown from one surprise into the next.
But she is a real heroine. She is not afraid to show fear but is also courageous when she needs to be. Her character dominates the novel's narrative, although at times we get Hugo's point of view too, which adds to the depth as it often shows areas where Marie-Ange's narrative can't reach.
Hugo is as uncaring and arrogant on the surface as you can imagine. His behaviour towards Marie-Ange veers from disdain to passion, especially when he realises the dangers she's in. But he is redeemed at the end.
Malleval is the arch-antagonist. Scheming, desperate, and ruthless. His treatment of others only serves his own purpose. Great characterisation here.
Weaving the conspiracy theory into the romance gives this story more depth. We have a rollicking adventure on our hands, at a time when Napoleon prepares to return, and King Louis XVIII is an uncertain choice. Loyalties change with ambition, and those politics provide the perfect historical backdrop. I know very little about the era, but I was immediately intrigued.
Readers who prefer a blossoming romance with a focus on the hero and heroine might find the conspiracy and political intrigues distracting, but for me, it makes the perfect romance adventure.
Angel of the Lost Treasure has everything I look for in a gripping, engaging and intriguing romance novel. Chapeau!
One of my favourite reads this year. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour. Views expressed are entirely my own.
Marie-Ange Norton, the widow of a British Naval Officer, has been invited to France, to the home of her ancestors, by their new owner, Uxeloup Malleval. She has an unexpected inheritance to collect, but must sign the deeds in person. With her own crumbling manor requiring work, and her 18-year-old brother-in-law dreaming of a commission to join the Navy, she has no choice but to accept.
Malleval sends dashing Cuirassier Hugo Saintclair to accompany her safely across the channel and France. Marie-Ange is unimpressed by the officer's haughty attitude and keeps herself to herself – not easy when travelling together at close distance. And things are not as they seem.
On her arrival at Beauregard, her mother's family's stately home in Burgundy, she is shocked to discover that, in order to claim her inheritance, she is forced to help unlock an old family secret. Apparently, she knows the hiding place of an ancient Templar relic that is buried somewhere in the grounds. A relic Malleval, who is suffering from a mystery illness, desperately wants.
But Marie-Ange only vaguely remembers the words of a lullaby her mother, who died when she was a small girl, taught her. Looking through her mother's drawings, she suddenly spots hints she never noticed before. But she could never share her discoveries with Malleval, or his creepy sidekick, Doctor Karloff (a very suitable name), who tries to hypnotise her.
Finding herself a virtual prisoner of Malleval, Marie-Ange devises ways of escaping him and discovering the secret herself. But to do that she needs Hugo's help. And he poses another danger – one to her own heart.
And then there's still the question of her missing husband...
There are so many brilliant twists and turns in this fabulous story, you can barely pause to take a breath. You get a real sense of adventure, a hint of Indiana Jones, and of conspiracy and intrigues. The pace is relentless, and poor Marie-Ange is thrown from one surprise into the next.
But she is a real heroine. She is not afraid to show fear but is also courageous when she needs to be. Her character dominates the novel's narrative, although at times we get Hugo's point of view too, which adds to the depth as it often shows areas where Marie-Ange's narrative can't reach.
Hugo is as uncaring and arrogant on the surface as you can imagine. His behaviour towards Marie-Ange veers from disdain to passion, especially when he realises the dangers she's in. But he is redeemed at the end.
Malleval is the arch-antagonist. Scheming, desperate, and ruthless. His treatment of others only serves his own purpose. Great characterisation here.
Weaving the conspiracy theory into the romance gives this story more depth. We have a rollicking adventure on our hands, at a time when Napoleon prepares to return, and King Louis XVIII is an uncertain choice. Loyalties change with ambition, and those politics provide the perfect historical backdrop. I know very little about the era, but I was immediately intrigued.
Readers who prefer a blossoming romance with a focus on the hero and heroine might find the conspiracy and political intrigues distracting, but for me, it makes the perfect romance adventure.
Angel of the Lost Treasure has everything I look for in a gripping, engaging and intriguing romance novel. Chapeau!
One of my favourite reads this year. Highly recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a free ebook copy in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour. Views expressed are entirely my own.
July 9, 2021
Angel of the Lost Treasure
was an excellent historical romance set in 19th Century France. Our main character is Marie-Ange Norton, who is a young widow and orphan. Her mother died when she was younger, followed by her father as she became older, and her husband was recently declared missing. While living in Devon, she receives a summons from a mysterious individual. She goes to Beauregard in France to collect an inheritance after receiving the invitation by Monseiur Malleval.
The journey starts with her crossing the sea with Captaine Hugo Saintclair. Upon arrival in France, Marie-Ange learns more about her family and the secrets that surround them. Marie-Ange becomes the houseguest of Malleval, but soon realizes that all might not be as it seems and she might be in danger. He believes that she will lead him to the lost treasure and will stop at nothing to get it. The story follows Marie-Ange as she tries to figure out who to trust and how to make it out safely. There were a lot of twists with all of the secrets surrounding her family’s history. The amount of thrill was reading this story was surprising, in a good way, as I loved following Marie-Ange’s story.
The characters in this story were all very enjoyable and complex. Although Marie-Ange is sometimes naïve, she learns a lot from her mistakes and is courageous. Hugh is a tough exterior with a caring heart and was a good match for Marie-Ange. The villain Malleval was very interesting as he was both clever and dangerous. Although the characters all seem to have predetermined roles, they were still interesting and dynamic.
The story features a nice mix of history and fiction to create a captivating tale. Although the story is fiction, there is a lot of realism and I loved the descriptions of the setting in France. I also greatly enjoyed the connection the story makes to the Knights Templar and the mysteries that accompany them. It added a new layer of the author’s great ability to weave history and fiction. Although there is a brewing romance in this story, I liked the author’s balance between it and the main mystery.
Overall, this is a wonderful escape-read as it does transport the reader into another world that is both new yet familiar. The twists and turns were well-planned as it seemed that everything was done intentionally as the author moved through the plot. The writing was easy to enjoy as it felt both historical yet accessible, so it was nice for the reader, like myself, that loves historical novels with the ease of a contemporary one. The story kept me interested and wanting to find out more that I ended up reading this in a single sitting. It was an excellent read and I would gladly read more by the author!
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources and the publisher, Choc Lit, for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
The journey starts with her crossing the sea with Captaine Hugo Saintclair. Upon arrival in France, Marie-Ange learns more about her family and the secrets that surround them. Marie-Ange becomes the houseguest of Malleval, but soon realizes that all might not be as it seems and she might be in danger. He believes that she will lead him to the lost treasure and will stop at nothing to get it. The story follows Marie-Ange as she tries to figure out who to trust and how to make it out safely. There were a lot of twists with all of the secrets surrounding her family’s history. The amount of thrill was reading this story was surprising, in a good way, as I loved following Marie-Ange’s story.
The characters in this story were all very enjoyable and complex. Although Marie-Ange is sometimes naïve, she learns a lot from her mistakes and is courageous. Hugh is a tough exterior with a caring heart and was a good match for Marie-Ange. The villain Malleval was very interesting as he was both clever and dangerous. Although the characters all seem to have predetermined roles, they were still interesting and dynamic.
The story features a nice mix of history and fiction to create a captivating tale. Although the story is fiction, there is a lot of realism and I loved the descriptions of the setting in France. I also greatly enjoyed the connection the story makes to the Knights Templar and the mysteries that accompany them. It added a new layer of the author’s great ability to weave history and fiction. Although there is a brewing romance in this story, I liked the author’s balance between it and the main mystery.
Overall, this is a wonderful escape-read as it does transport the reader into another world that is both new yet familiar. The twists and turns were well-planned as it seemed that everything was done intentionally as the author moved through the plot. The writing was easy to enjoy as it felt both historical yet accessible, so it was nice for the reader, like myself, that loves historical novels with the ease of a contemporary one. The story kept me interested and wanting to find out more that I ended up reading this in a single sitting. It was an excellent read and I would gladly read more by the author!
**I give a special thank you to Rachel @rararesources and the publisher, Choc Lit, for the opportunity to participate with this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
July 8, 2021
When Marie-Ange receives news from France telling her that she’s entitled to some inheritance she has to go – her family needs it. When the boat arrives to collect her from England, her escort and travel companion is Capitaine Hugo Saintclair – a brooding, short tempered man. But when she arrives in France, he’s the last of her worries. The man that summoned her, Malleval is not what she expected. He’s obsessed with her family and believes that only she can find the missing relic that will change his life….
She thinks he’s just a little mad….until she realises she’s not actually a guest….but his prisoner. The only person who knows where she is and what Malleval’s intentions are is Capitaine Saintclair. But he’s a friend of Mallevals. Is he all that he first appeared? Or is there more to him? And will he be the one to save Marie-Ange before it’s too late?
This had me completely hooked. The historical information in this is fascinating, the will they/won’t they romance will keep you guessing, and the search for the relic and the chase will keep you on the edge of you seat. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this!
Marie-Ange was a fab character. At times I found her frustrating and a little naive but I think that’s because of the historical time period; however at other times she was strong, independent and knew her mind. Hugo is brilliant and you’ll find yourself falling in love with him. He comes across as a real knight in shining armour! Christopher drove me absolutely bonkers – I did not like him at all and I’ll leave you to find out why for yourselves!
The mystery of the relics and song were fantastic. I found myself picking the book up whenever I had a second to try and read a little more! The suspense is brilliant and will genuinely keep you intrigued. In terms of history, it covers Napoleon and the uprisings, attempted assassinations, Knights Templar and Knight Hospitaller. All of which I found fantastic.
So if you’re a fan of things like the Da Vinci Code, love a will they/won’t they romance, enjoy learning about history, like characters that will bring out all sort of emotions and want a book that you won’t want to put down, then this is for you! Highly recommended by me.
She thinks he’s just a little mad….until she realises she’s not actually a guest….but his prisoner. The only person who knows where she is and what Malleval’s intentions are is Capitaine Saintclair. But he’s a friend of Mallevals. Is he all that he first appeared? Or is there more to him? And will he be the one to save Marie-Ange before it’s too late?
This had me completely hooked. The historical information in this is fascinating, the will they/won’t they romance will keep you guessing, and the search for the relic and the chase will keep you on the edge of you seat. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this!
Marie-Ange was a fab character. At times I found her frustrating and a little naive but I think that’s because of the historical time period; however at other times she was strong, independent and knew her mind. Hugo is brilliant and you’ll find yourself falling in love with him. He comes across as a real knight in shining armour! Christopher drove me absolutely bonkers – I did not like him at all and I’ll leave you to find out why for yourselves!
The mystery of the relics and song were fantastic. I found myself picking the book up whenever I had a second to try and read a little more! The suspense is brilliant and will genuinely keep you intrigued. In terms of history, it covers Napoleon and the uprisings, attempted assassinations, Knights Templar and Knight Hospitaller. All of which I found fantastic.
So if you’re a fan of things like the Da Vinci Code, love a will they/won’t they romance, enjoy learning about history, like characters that will bring out all sort of emotions and want a book that you won’t want to put down, then this is for you! Highly recommended by me.
February 2, 2021
Angel of the Lost Treasure is a historical romance set in 19th century France with links to the Knights Templar, who you may know of from the Da Vinci Code. Marie-Ange is a young widow whose husband Christopher was lost at sea during the Napoleonic Wars. Her mother was French and when she is invited to France by a relative, Monsieur Malleval, to claim an inheritance, she is escorted there by handsome though gruff Capitaine Hugo Saintclair. Once she arrives, she discovers that it's not quite as straightforward as it seems and that she may have been lured to France under false pretences. Mr Malleval is convinced she knows about some hidden treasure referred to in some ancient documents by the Knights Templar, treasure he is desperate to get his hands on.
Marie-Ange is no damsel in distress, as she proves several times when she is in danger. I really liked her feistiness at a time when a lady was supposed to be somewhat delicate. And although Capitaine Sinclair initially seems to be no gentleman when they first meet, he turns out to be a bit of a swoon-worthy hero. I so enjoyed the slow burn romance between them. And then there was the added mystery of just what had happened to Marie-Ange's husband adding a few complications. Was he really dead?
This was a turbulent time in French history with danger lurking it seemed round every corner and it made for a gripping read. The author really brought the era to life and created a sense of ever-present fear.
Danger, drama, suspense and romance are combined so well, making this an enthralling story. This would make a fantastic tv costume drama! Now, who to cast as the Capitaine...?
Marie-Ange is no damsel in distress, as she proves several times when she is in danger. I really liked her feistiness at a time when a lady was supposed to be somewhat delicate. And although Capitaine Sinclair initially seems to be no gentleman when they first meet, he turns out to be a bit of a swoon-worthy hero. I so enjoyed the slow burn romance between them. And then there was the added mystery of just what had happened to Marie-Ange's husband adding a few complications. Was he really dead?
This was a turbulent time in French history with danger lurking it seemed round every corner and it made for a gripping read. The author really brought the era to life and created a sense of ever-present fear.
Danger, drama, suspense and romance are combined so well, making this an enthralling story. This would make a fantastic tv costume drama! Now, who to cast as the Capitaine...?
February 23, 2021
This was a fascinating piece of historical fiction - full of intrigue, mystery and romance - that takes you on a thrilling adventure through France in the search of hidden treasure!
Marie-Ange is at the centre of the story, a widow for 6 years and now set to travel to France for a family inheritance that is much needed. It isn't right for a woman to travel alone, so she is set to be accompanied by Capitaine Saintclair, a dashing escort to say the least, but with a bit of a brusque attitude so sparks fly almost instantly! And is there more to his role than he is letting on to Marie?!
I loved the setting of this whole story - the political landscape of France is changing fast over there, and there is seemingly danger round every corner! She sees a face from the past which really rocks her while she is travelling, and then meeting her long lost relative adds more intrigue as he is obsessed by a piece of treasure and seems set to go to extreme lengths to get his hands on it, no matter the consequences. Marie-Ange needs to keep her wits about her, and knowing who to trust is a minefield of its' own!
This was such fun and quite tense too! You really get involved in the history and supernatural elements of the storyline, and the hold that the Templar Knights legend has over everyone is clear for all to see. Hugo is a pretty mysterious character as he escorts her around France, and you're always second guessing his motives but the connection between them is pretty electric and you're always willing them to find happiness - amongst the madness!!
Marie-Ange is at the centre of the story, a widow for 6 years and now set to travel to France for a family inheritance that is much needed. It isn't right for a woman to travel alone, so she is set to be accompanied by Capitaine Saintclair, a dashing escort to say the least, but with a bit of a brusque attitude so sparks fly almost instantly! And is there more to his role than he is letting on to Marie?!
I loved the setting of this whole story - the political landscape of France is changing fast over there, and there is seemingly danger round every corner! She sees a face from the past which really rocks her while she is travelling, and then meeting her long lost relative adds more intrigue as he is obsessed by a piece of treasure and seems set to go to extreme lengths to get his hands on it, no matter the consequences. Marie-Ange needs to keep her wits about her, and knowing who to trust is a minefield of its' own!
This was such fun and quite tense too! You really get involved in the history and supernatural elements of the storyline, and the hold that the Templar Knights legend has over everyone is clear for all to see. Hugo is a pretty mysterious character as he escorts her around France, and you're always second guessing his motives but the connection between them is pretty electric and you're always willing them to find happiness - amongst the madness!!
July 8, 2021
Marie-Ange’s story hooked me from the beginning. Having lost her mother at a young age, her father more recently and with her husband declared missing in action, Marie-Ange has spent the last six-years coping alone in a crumbling Devon manor house.
With little knowledge of her French family, the invitation to the family home in France, along with a couple of unexpected encounters in Paris, spark her interest to discover as much about her past as she can. I loved the sense of intrigue as things weren’t quite what they first seemed. The more Marie-Ange learns, the more the secrets and mysteries, some that have survived the generations, deepen. Can she really be the key to the missing relic? Is she putting herself in a dangerous position to find out? Who can she trust? These were the questions that kept me turning the pages.
I found her a likeable character; a strong, independent woman who wasn’t afraid of adventure, or willing to give up until she had discovered the truth. I couldn’t help but hope she would also find love and happiness in her life.
Set in that difficult period, where neither the royalists nor the revolutionaries have quite gained the dominant hand, Marie Laval brought France and her history to life in this story full of intrigue, mystery and more.
If you enjoy historical novels, with mystery and simmering romance, then this is one for you to immerse yourself in this summer.
With little knowledge of her French family, the invitation to the family home in France, along with a couple of unexpected encounters in Paris, spark her interest to discover as much about her past as she can. I loved the sense of intrigue as things weren’t quite what they first seemed. The more Marie-Ange learns, the more the secrets and mysteries, some that have survived the generations, deepen. Can she really be the key to the missing relic? Is she putting herself in a dangerous position to find out? Who can she trust? These were the questions that kept me turning the pages.
I found her a likeable character; a strong, independent woman who wasn’t afraid of adventure, or willing to give up until she had discovered the truth. I couldn’t help but hope she would also find love and happiness in her life.
Set in that difficult period, where neither the royalists nor the revolutionaries have quite gained the dominant hand, Marie Laval brought France and her history to life in this story full of intrigue, mystery and more.
If you enjoy historical novels, with mystery and simmering romance, then this is one for you to immerse yourself in this summer.
April 2, 2026
This book was a lot. First, strengths. The writing, pacing, and storytelling were pretty solid overall. Never read Marie Laval before, but she's obviously a talented writer. The plot and pace kept me engaged. There's also an interesting mystery that from what I understand does have at least some basis in European occult history. There's a wide cast of characters, most of whom I genuinely enjoyed. I was, for the most part, entertained.
Weaknesses: I felt like it was trying to be too many things at once - a Da Vinci Code style occult thriller AND a Victorian soap opera romance with a LOT of moving parts. I was very ready for this to be finished by the time it ended. The romance had good bones but was too heteronormative for my tastes. He's brutish and forceful and protective, she's dainty and fragile and soft and wrapped in his big brawny arms, lots of idealized possessiveness... If you like that dynamic, you'll probably enjoy it. Not my thing. The villain was also comically evil without much depth. Final note - I really disliked how the author stigmatized kink as a way of illustrating how "depraved" the villain was. Relying on bias toward a huge group of people to characterize maliciousness is just plain lazy.
3.5 - if your tastes differ from mine you'll probably enjoy it.
Weaknesses: I felt like it was trying to be too many things at once - a Da Vinci Code style occult thriller AND a Victorian soap opera romance with a LOT of moving parts. I was very ready for this to be finished by the time it ended. The romance had good bones but was too heteronormative for my tastes. He's brutish and forceful and protective, she's dainty and fragile and soft and wrapped in his big brawny arms, lots of idealized possessiveness... If you like that dynamic, you'll probably enjoy it. Not my thing. The villain was also comically evil without much depth. Final note - I really disliked how the author stigmatized kink as a way of illustrating how "depraved" the villain was. Relying on bias toward a huge group of people to characterize maliciousness is just plain lazy.
3.5 - if your tastes differ from mine you'll probably enjoy it.
February 23, 2021
I was a bit unsure of this one to start with, the hero isn’t particularly likeable initially, but he improves dramatically! I needn’t have worried, once it gets going, this is a thoroughly good yarn, and very meaty. The heroine suffers through so many misfortunes, it is pretty incredible that she manages to scrape through them all fairly unscathed. All in all, a very good read and certainly worth 5 stars – I have enjoyed all Ms Laval’s previous Choclit/Ruby books, but I think this is the best so far, and my favourite.
February 23, 2021
This book I found intriguing as very unusual. It has a feisty female as the main protagonist in a historical romance where they are normally portrayed as being very wishy washy sorts. Not this one. The storyline was also very believable and well put together with enough real characters to add realism. I enjoyed the whole thing and loved watching the interplay between the main characters. The touch of love was gentle and enjoyable amongst the less easy bits! A gripping and enjoyable read.
February 23, 2021
Angel of Lost Treasure was a real treasure. I’ve always enjoyed Marie’s books, and was slightly concerned when I first heard, she was trying something different, but I needn’t have worried. What a wonderful story. A historical adventure/romance set mainly in France, Marie was able to really bring these places to life with great details and descriptions. A fabulous novel with believable characters and fascinating story. I couldn’t put it down. I’m hoping there’s a sequel.
February 25, 2021
"Angel of the Lost Treasure" is gothic type of historical romance. There is mystery, danger and deceit. A dashing French cuirassier (think 19th century paintings of soldiers with rearing horses and swirling cloaks) brings the heroine from England to France into a situation which becomes increasingly threatening. Who can she trust?
If you are tired of regency ballrooms then this could be the book you are looking for.
If you are tired of regency ballrooms then this could be the book you are looking for.
February 23, 2021
Exciting story set in post Napoleonic England and France. Marie-Ange is not your typical Regency heroine. She has had to learn to be strong as she faces unpredictable challenges. She is accompanied on her adventures by the intriguing Capitaine Saintclair, but can she really trust him? Throw some Templars and weird priests into the mix and you have a fantastic story!
March 1, 2021
What an amazing story! Historical romance, adventure, treasure – it has it all! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I’ve read two of this author’s other books, Little Pink Taxi and Escape to the Little Chateau. This one did not disappoint!
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