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Secret Society of Governess Spies #1
Never Blow a Kiss
The utterly charming Emily Leverton has a dark past and is determined to leave it behind in her respectable new role as a governess. But when she is recruited by a secret network of governesses who spy on the ton, it may just be a way to redeem the dark secrets of her past.
Straddling the worlds of the ton and the working class, as an ex-solider turned railroad magnate, Zach hunts killers for the Metropolitan Police by day and dutifully attends balls at night. In neither world has he met a woman with the brazenness to mock him. So when a saucy governess blows him a kiss he is determined to catch her, never expecting that when he does he will find an intelligent, quirky woman hiding more than her true name. As Zach peels back the layers of Emily’s lies, he falls for the street-wise woman who handles a dagger like a pro and kisses like a mistress. But when his affair with Emily intertwines with his hunt for a killer, he discovers Emily is hiding an explosive secret—one that could destroy them both.
Straddling the worlds of the ton and the working class, as an ex-solider turned railroad magnate, Zach hunts killers for the Metropolitan Police by day and dutifully attends balls at night. In neither world has he met a woman with the brazenness to mock him. So when a saucy governess blows him a kiss he is determined to catch her, never expecting that when he does he will find an intelligent, quirky woman hiding more than her true name. As Zach peels back the layers of Emily’s lies, he falls for the street-wise woman who handles a dagger like a pro and kisses like a mistress. But when his affair with Emily intertwines with his hunt for a killer, he discovers Emily is hiding an explosive secret—one that could destroy them both.
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 23, 2024
81 people are currently reading
5049 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Lovise
7 books232 followersLindsay writes historical and paranormal romances with brave heroines, as well as creepy YA books. Although she earned degrees in English and teaching, she always knew she wanted to write stories about love.
When she’s not writing, Lindsay is reading, drinking coffee, and avoiding laundry. She currently lives in New York, but was born and raised in Maine where the winters make for perfect reading weather.
To keep in the know, sign up for Lovise Letters at lindsaylovise.com.
When she’s not writing, Lindsay is reading, drinking coffee, and avoiding laundry. She currently lives in New York, but was born and raised in Maine where the winters make for perfect reading weather.
To keep in the know, sign up for Lovise Letters at lindsaylovise.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
February 10, 2024
The book was off to a great start for me with a funny determined imposter wanting a better life. A female spymaster using a network of governesses to help solve crime. I was sold! I believe this is a first book for this author and it was enjoyable. I look forward to the next book in the series. I categorize this as modern historical. It takes place at the start of the Victorian era and often felt like it should have taken place in the early 1900's. Emily is able to come and go pretty much at will. She gets and sends notes several times a day and no one comments (the notes add a cuteness to the story). The issues of a serial killer, child abuse and spousal abuse are areas delt with in the plot. Zack never really is fleshed out enough for me. I give the book 3.5* as the book was a bit uneven for me as far as pacing and storyline.
December 4, 2023
This historical romance had NO business being this good. I love pretty much all historical romances. It's hard to mess up poofy dresses and gallant men who know their way around London - BUT .. the idea that our heroine has had to fight for the life she's had sucked me in right away. I will be watching out for Book 2 in this series and reading ASAP!!
The romance in this first book of the series is great - but I never forgot that there was also a mystery running in the background? Totally didn't see the ending coming until it was right in my face, and then it all made sense!!! All parts of this story wrapped up so well!!
**P.S. I'm pretty sure I know who the second book will be about, and I'm desperate for her story!!
NOTES:
- Strong heroine
- 🌶️🌶️/5 - Spicy elements but nothing to detract from the plot - super balanced/open door elements!
**Thank you to Forever & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
The romance in this first book of the series is great - but I never forgot that there was also a mystery running in the background? Totally didn't see the ending coming until it was right in my face, and then it all made sense!!! All parts of this story wrapped up so well!!
**P.S. I'm pretty sure I know who the second book will be about, and I'm desperate for her story!!
NOTES:
- Strong heroine
- 🌶️🌶️/5 - Spicy elements but nothing to detract from the plot - super balanced/open door elements!
**Thank you to Forever & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
January 27, 2024
3.75 Stars
An entertaining and steamy historical romance
I really enjoyed the romantic storyline between Emily and Zach. I love the playful banter they had. However, the balance between romance and mystery was not quite equal, as the romance seemed to take center stage. I wanted a bit more mystery throughout the novel. Nevertheless, I still found it to be a fun read, and look forward to reading more from this author.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lindsay Lovise, and Hachette Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
An entertaining and steamy historical romance
I really enjoyed the romantic storyline between Emily and Zach. I love the playful banter they had. However, the balance between romance and mystery was not quite equal, as the romance seemed to take center stage. I wanted a bit more mystery throughout the novel. Nevertheless, I still found it to be a fun read, and look forward to reading more from this author.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lindsay Lovise, and Hachette Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
November 10, 2024
Bleh. This was…well, let’s call it not good, because there was nothing “historical” about this Historical Romance. Poorly balanced plot + bloated filler; zero sense of time & place; flat characters with bland chemistry having cheesy sex; uninspired prose + cringey attempts at humor—not to mention the dreadful dialogue. Yes, dreadful. DREADFUL. I wanted to punch both MCs in the face with a cactus every time they started up the anachronistic banter or launching from one soapbox to another. Just STFU & find the killer, already. (Oh, that reminds me…the murderer was yet another raving religious nutjob. How original.)
1.5 stars—the extra .5 only because it doesn’t have a shitty cartoon cover.
1.5 stars—the extra .5 only because it doesn’t have a shitty cartoon cover.
January 24, 2024
Never Blow a Kiss by Lindsay Lovise
Secret Society of Governess Spies series #1. Historical romantic suspense. Alternating POV between the hero and heroine.
Emily Leverton has a dark and difficult history but she is determined to make a better life for herself. In an honest trade or profession. But while that may be her preference, there are others that won’t allow her to “better” herself more than they think is due to them.
Ex-soldier Zach helps the Metropolitan Police investigating crimes. He has access to the better drawing rooms as a rich railroad magnate. People love to share their secrets. When a saucy woman blows him a kiss as he’s being sought by a matchmaking mama, Zack follows Emily. He’s soon fascinated by her unique attitude and outlook and falls for the governess but secrets may cause problems
🎧 I alternated between an ebook copy and an audiobook reading this. The audiobook is narrated by Ella Lynch and Rupert Channing. Both gave a marvelous performance. The two narrators made it easy to track whose POV the chapter was for while the ebook was not labeled. The full text is in 3rd person so the audio actually did a better job in that respect. Both performed with great diction, and emotions. The surprise, and anger and frustration were so well done, I don’t think I would have read it with the same passion. The ebook was a smidge better for following or backtracking on the surprising twists that kept occurring!
I’m starting to enjoy historical romance much more lately with these unique and non traditional characters. Emily is not just a governess but has a lot of rich history woven into the story. She’s a survivor. I look forward to more of this series to see what’s next.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Hachette Audio.
Secret Society of Governess Spies series #1. Historical romantic suspense. Alternating POV between the hero and heroine.
Emily Leverton has a dark and difficult history but she is determined to make a better life for herself. In an honest trade or profession. But while that may be her preference, there are others that won’t allow her to “better” herself more than they think is due to them.
Ex-soldier Zach helps the Metropolitan Police investigating crimes. He has access to the better drawing rooms as a rich railroad magnate. People love to share their secrets. When a saucy woman blows him a kiss as he’s being sought by a matchmaking mama, Zack follows Emily. He’s soon fascinated by her unique attitude and outlook and falls for the governess but secrets may cause problems
🎧 I alternated between an ebook copy and an audiobook reading this. The audiobook is narrated by Ella Lynch and Rupert Channing. Both gave a marvelous performance. The two narrators made it easy to track whose POV the chapter was for while the ebook was not labeled. The full text is in 3rd person so the audio actually did a better job in that respect. Both performed with great diction, and emotions. The surprise, and anger and frustration were so well done, I don’t think I would have read it with the same passion. The ebook was a smidge better for following or backtracking on the surprising twists that kept occurring!
I’m starting to enjoy historical romance much more lately with these unique and non traditional characters. Emily is not just a governess but has a lot of rich history woven into the story. She’s a survivor. I look forward to more of this series to see what’s next.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Hachette Audio.
January 17, 2024
a solid, if a bit uneven, historical romance with an accompanying mystery plot. do know things get pretty intense and that the murder and violence is fairly explicit, and focused on sex workers.
i overall enjoyed this audiobook, the two narrators (Ella Lynch and Rupert Channing) hit the mark for me, especially the narrator for Emily Leverton.
Emily is the star of this show, and I wish Zach was more compelling beyond being patient, rich, and preternaturally good at sensing things were "off." he was sort of a snore, and lemme tell you i didn't like the nickname NOODLES. no thank you sir!
I also really was kept guessing on how legally married to a horrid man who ~may~ be dead due to a shipwreck Emily was going to get her HEA with Zach, and the resolution to that was really something...
SPOILERS
Still with me? SO the tone of this book started off fairly light hearted in banter (and the romance) but Emily's character has been through A Lot including spousal rape and domestic abuse along with being forced to thieve and do illegal acts as both a child and an adult (until her husband is lost at sea). Tonally, this book didn't quite match up for me with all ~that~ plus the serial killer on the loose, the murdering of sex workers (brutally, and very much described), and other dark themes. I wouldn't have minded but it did feel a bit "oh all is now well" after Emily kills her not so dead husband ! ! ! and Zach, as an officer of the law, is able to completely brush it off. Zach did the murder, he's a police officer and it is justified! felt a little icky to me. I mean, the man deserved it, but also ... i dunno.
Emily has very very real worries about her station in life, her image and reputation, and everything, and I was both refreshed to see her taking agency of her relationship with Zach (on her terms), but also worried about her and him being insistent on marriage.
SO overall, I'll definitely read more from the author, and I'm looking forward to secondary character and mathematician other governess who "solved" this serial killer murder in this one's book.
thank you to the publisher and LibroFM for the early eArc and the ALC; all thoughts are my own
i overall enjoyed this audiobook, the two narrators (Ella Lynch and Rupert Channing) hit the mark for me, especially the narrator for Emily Leverton.
Emily is the star of this show, and I wish Zach was more compelling beyond being patient, rich, and preternaturally good at sensing things were "off." he was sort of a snore, and lemme tell you i didn't like the nickname NOODLES. no thank you sir!
I also really was kept guessing on how legally married to a horrid man who ~may~ be dead due to a shipwreck Emily was going to get her HEA with Zach, and the resolution to that was really something...
SPOILERS
Still with me? SO the tone of this book started off fairly light hearted in banter (and the romance) but Emily's character has been through A Lot including spousal rape and domestic abuse along with being forced to thieve and do illegal acts as both a child and an adult (until her husband is lost at sea). Tonally, this book didn't quite match up for me with all ~that~ plus the serial killer on the loose, the murdering of sex workers (brutally, and very much described), and other dark themes. I wouldn't have minded but it did feel a bit "oh all is now well" after Emily kills her not so dead husband ! ! ! and Zach, as an officer of the law, is able to completely brush it off. Zach did the murder, he's a police officer and it is justified! felt a little icky to me. I mean, the man deserved it, but also ... i dunno.
Emily has very very real worries about her station in life, her image and reputation, and everything, and I was both refreshed to see her taking agency of her relationship with Zach (on her terms), but also worried about her and him being insistent on marriage.
SO overall, I'll definitely read more from the author, and I'm looking forward to secondary character and mathematician other governess who "solved" this serial killer murder in this one's book.
thank you to the publisher and LibroFM for the early eArc and the ALC; all thoughts are my own
July 2, 2025
The hero pursues the heroine and it was so refreshing to read.
January 20, 2024
This is a fast-paced romp with a relationship that goes from zero-to-sixty very quickly. Both main characters grew up in poverty and made their way to Mayfair in different ways. The female main character, Emily, lied her way into a governess position while the male main character, Zach, made a fortune investing money won while gambling in the railroad. As the story opens, Emily joins a spy network made up exclusively of governesses and it seems other members of the network will be the subject of future books.
Because the characters are on the outskirts of society, their impulsive (and sometimes outrageous) behavior is believable and fun to follow. The emotional connection between them grows nicely as Zach realizes Emily has some baggage from her past . The way they work through it is endearing.
The main plot of the story centers around a serial killer and there are several exciting action scenes while the couple is sleuthing. Emily's spy master is on the periphery in this book, but the ending makes me think they'll be more present in the next book.
The writing here is easy to digest. I devoured this book in about 24 hours as a result and I look forward to seeing the spy network story become more sophisticated as the series continues.
Because the characters are on the outskirts of society, their impulsive (and sometimes outrageous) behavior is believable and fun to follow. The emotional connection between them grows nicely as Zach realizes Emily has some baggage from her past . The way they work through it is endearing.
The main plot of the story centers around a serial killer and there are several exciting action scenes while the couple is sleuthing. Emily's spy master is on the periphery in this book, but the ending makes me think they'll be more present in the next book.
The writing here is easy to digest. I devoured this book in about 24 hours as a result and I look forward to seeing the spy network story become more sophisticated as the series continues.
January 19, 2024
This book has a ton of stuff I love, so I thought I'd like the book more than I did. I am not a stickler for historical accuracy (e.g. I will take a non-racist MC any day over a more "accurate" bigot), but unfortunately I never felt that HistRom "magic" here.
I liked:
It's a historical romance with a touch of mystery;
The starchy MMC lawman reckoning with his place in police bureaucracy;
The FMC with a shadowy past and a job spying on the ton.
I was more meh on:
The modern idioms peppering all of the dialogue;
The extremely quick progression of their relationship with no regard for social approbation;
The framing story of "The Dove," the FMC's spymaster (spy mistress?).
I think this might work better for someone new to historical romance and its conventions.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
I liked:
It's a historical romance with a touch of mystery;
The starchy MMC lawman reckoning with his place in police bureaucracy;
The FMC with a shadowy past and a job spying on the ton.
I was more meh on:
The modern idioms peppering all of the dialogue;
The extremely quick progression of their relationship with no regard for social approbation;
The framing story of "The Dove," the FMC's spymaster (spy mistress?).
I think this might work better for someone new to historical romance and its conventions.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
February 15, 2024
This book is an excellent combination of romance and mystery. Emily is part of a secret network of governesses spying on influential members of the ton. Zach is a former soldier turned police officer on the hunt for a dangerous killer prowling the streets London.
While the mystery is a great subplot and a very important part of the story, the main focus of the book is the romance. I really enjoyed reading a historical romance novel that includes a working class hero and heroine. It was a very nice change of pace from all of the Lords and Ladys populating most HR.
Never Blow a Kiss is a wonderful debut for Lindsay Lovise, and I absolutely can't wait for the next installment of this series. With an intriguing murder mystery and a steamy romance, this book was like catnip to me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
While the mystery is a great subplot and a very important part of the story, the main focus of the book is the romance. I really enjoyed reading a historical romance novel that includes a working class hero and heroine. It was a very nice change of pace from all of the Lords and Ladys populating most HR.
Never Blow a Kiss is a wonderful debut for Lindsay Lovise, and I absolutely can't wait for the next installment of this series. With an intriguing murder mystery and a steamy romance, this book was like catnip to me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 13, 2023
\\\\\ 4.5 \\\\\
I thought this one sounded quite interesting but I never imagined I'd love it like that! It was so good!!
I think historical romances mixed with a bit of mystery are one of my favourite things. I get so invested in the story and cannot seem to put the book down. It's the best of both worlds because you get to know the characters and enjoy their romance but you also are on the lookout for a murderer on the side. I mean, of course I'll be hooked with that. Even though the mystery part of the book was quite dark, the fun tone and banter of our main characters made for a lighter read, so that's probably why I enjoyed it so much. It was a real page turner. And it was interesting that we sometimes got a chapter from a side character POV, brought a fresh perspective to the story and I liked it!
Now, about our characters. From that first meeting, it was just amazing every time they got together and they were so fun to follow. Let me tell you that first kiss was fire. And then, the notes they wrote to each other made me unconditionally happy! I enjoyed their instant understanding of each other and how they fast went from strangers, to friends, to more than friends. They could read each other so easily thanks to both their backgrounds being so similar and it made their relationship even more precious. It also served well when there were some problems in their relationship, they solved it so quickly I had no time to be mad at someone, haha. These two characters were easy to understand for me, and I could see why they would react a certain way or hide certain things.
I'm really intrigued by what's to come next, this Dove character is so captivating, I cannot wait for the next book.
Before ending, I'll just say that Noodles is the best nickname ever.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own
I thought this one sounded quite interesting but I never imagined I'd love it like that! It was so good!!
I think historical romances mixed with a bit of mystery are one of my favourite things. I get so invested in the story and cannot seem to put the book down. It's the best of both worlds because you get to know the characters and enjoy their romance but you also are on the lookout for a murderer on the side. I mean, of course I'll be hooked with that. Even though the mystery part of the book was quite dark, the fun tone and banter of our main characters made for a lighter read, so that's probably why I enjoyed it so much. It was a real page turner. And it was interesting that we sometimes got a chapter from a side character POV, brought a fresh perspective to the story and I liked it!
Now, about our characters. From that first meeting, it was just amazing every time they got together and they were so fun to follow. Let me tell you that first kiss was fire. And then, the notes they wrote to each other made me unconditionally happy! I enjoyed their instant understanding of each other and how they fast went from strangers, to friends, to more than friends. They could read each other so easily thanks to both their backgrounds being so similar and it made their relationship even more precious. It also served well when there were some problems in their relationship, they solved it so quickly I had no time to be mad at someone, haha. These two characters were easy to understand for me, and I could see why they would react a certain way or hide certain things.
I'm really intrigued by what's to come next, this Dove character is so captivating, I cannot wait for the next book.
Before ending, I'll just say that Noodles is the best nickname ever.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are my own
January 22, 2024
Captivating, Intriguing, Dark!
How to fall in love with a feisty down to earth heroine, hiding earth shattering or maybe soul destroying secrets.
Emily Laverton has come up the hard way. From the school of hard knocks in Bethnal Green where thievery helped her survive. Now she’s a governess. Not your true blue governess but a young woman determined to lift herself out of the gutter.
Zachariah Denholm is a wealthy man, an ex Colonel in and honed under battle. He is an unpaid Detective Constable with the Metropolitan Police. When he meets Emily he’s knocked for six. Who was that creature who blew a kiss to him before departing the Ball given by the Commissioner’s sister.
Zac works tirelessly. He’s currently after The Evangelist, a man who’s been murdering prostitutes. He’s escalating. Zac thinks he knows who it is but …
Meanwhile he’s distracted by the altogether attractive Emily whom his soul calls to.
Can they work this puzzle out together. What of Emily’s other employer The Dove. The Dove employs a network of women who are witness to happenings that the Police can’t get access to, such as the Ton. And what of Emily’s fractured and dark past.
So good!
Great reading with some very humorous and some titillating sciences.
I loved every minute of this book.
A Forever (Grand Central Pub.) ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
How to fall in love with a feisty down to earth heroine, hiding earth shattering or maybe soul destroying secrets.
Emily Laverton has come up the hard way. From the school of hard knocks in Bethnal Green where thievery helped her survive. Now she’s a governess. Not your true blue governess but a young woman determined to lift herself out of the gutter.
Zachariah Denholm is a wealthy man, an ex Colonel in and honed under battle. He is an unpaid Detective Constable with the Metropolitan Police. When he meets Emily he’s knocked for six. Who was that creature who blew a kiss to him before departing the Ball given by the Commissioner’s sister.
Zac works tirelessly. He’s currently after The Evangelist, a man who’s been murdering prostitutes. He’s escalating. Zac thinks he knows who it is but …
Meanwhile he’s distracted by the altogether attractive Emily whom his soul calls to.
Can they work this puzzle out together. What of Emily’s other employer The Dove. The Dove employs a network of women who are witness to happenings that the Police can’t get access to, such as the Ton. And what of Emily’s fractured and dark past.
So good!
Great reading with some very humorous and some titillating sciences.
I loved every minute of this book.
A Forever (Grand Central Pub.) ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
January 6, 2024
This assured debut has everything that a hist-rom fan would want. Governess spy Emily, who has a past, teams up with Zack, who works for the London police on the trail of a serial killer. This intelligent romance includes intrigue and spice and the start of a series I will definitely follow. Enjoy!
January 21, 2025
Shoutout to my bf for picking this out for me.
This was my first historical romance and I really enjoyed it! Fast paced, mystery, and a bad ass fmc.
This was my first historical romance and I really enjoyed it! Fast paced, mystery, and a bad ass fmc.
Read
November 6, 2025DNF at 14%.
Just felt like I’ve read it before but better. Didn’t capture my attention.
Just felt like I’ve read it before but better. Didn’t capture my attention.
July 2, 2024
There gets a point where there’s just so many anachronisms one can’t take it anymore…
The plot sounded so good but it ended up falling flat. Emily was better developed than Zach, but all her random “quirks” just felt so out of place. Zach on the other hand was just a generic romance hero. Not even a generic historical romance hero because both Zach and Emily acted completely out of the time period.
I could have overlooked the poor character development and the flat writing if it wasn’t over the horrible abundance of completely out of time phrases being used. “As cool as a cucumber” - I promise you no one was using that in 1830s England. And the use of the word Okay- also not a common thing yet!!
I will give some credit to the mystery though because even though it was written in a way that seemed like an afterthought the actual premise of the mystery and the villain were actually interesting.
The plot sounded so good but it ended up falling flat. Emily was better developed than Zach, but all her random “quirks” just felt so out of place. Zach on the other hand was just a generic romance hero. Not even a generic historical romance hero because both Zach and Emily acted completely out of the time period.
I could have overlooked the poor character development and the flat writing if it wasn’t over the horrible abundance of completely out of time phrases being used. “As cool as a cucumber” - I promise you no one was using that in 1830s England. And the use of the word Okay- also not a common thing yet!!
I will give some credit to the mystery though because even though it was written in a way that seemed like an afterthought the actual premise of the mystery and the villain were actually interesting.
March 9, 2025
dnf the instant the hero called the heroine “noodles” as a pet name, i just can’t
But I probably wouldn’t have lasted must longer due to all the modern slang and dialogue. If you’re going to write historical, commit to it!
But I probably wouldn’t have lasted must longer due to all the modern slang and dialogue. If you’re going to write historical, commit to it!
March 13, 2024
After at least a year of saying I would, I finally read my first historical romance, and it was Never Blow A Kiss by Lindsay Lovise!
Emily is lovely and poised and equally cheeky, as she tries to keep her secret past hidden. Zach is handsome and wealthy, working to find a killer with the Metropolitan Police. Their paths cross when Emily brassenly blows a kiss at Zach across a ballroom party.
There's a bit of mystery, intrigue, lust, and passion all mixed within this plot, making a book that was both fun and captivating. And oh my, the longing between Emily and Zach was full of tension! This one is steamy (in a way I hadn't quite expected), much more than just a scandalous ankle poking out of a dress slit!
I can't wait to see where this Secret Society Of Governess Spies series goes, and I'm already looking forward to reading the next book in spring of 2025!
Thank you Kaye Publicity for the complimentary copy to read and review.
Emily is lovely and poised and equally cheeky, as she tries to keep her secret past hidden. Zach is handsome and wealthy, working to find a killer with the Metropolitan Police. Their paths cross when Emily brassenly blows a kiss at Zach across a ballroom party.
There's a bit of mystery, intrigue, lust, and passion all mixed within this plot, making a book that was both fun and captivating. And oh my, the longing between Emily and Zach was full of tension! This one is steamy (in a way I hadn't quite expected), much more than just a scandalous ankle poking out of a dress slit!
I can't wait to see where this Secret Society Of Governess Spies series goes, and I'm already looking forward to reading the next book in spring of 2025!
Thank you Kaye Publicity for the complimentary copy to read and review.
November 27, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-romantic suspense - murder mystery
-secret society of governesses
-secrets galore
-he falls first and hard
-sizziling chemistry
Gosh I enjoyed this one so much. A page turner with a murder mystery that a governess and millionaire police officer are both trying to solve, so of course they run into each other constantly. So many twists and turns. But the romance just sparkled between Emily and Zach as she tried to fight it. The sexual chemsitry, the steamy scenes, have a fan ready because you will be sweating. I don't want to say much but just a sparkling historical romance debut and I am so excited this will be a series so make sure to check it out.
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-romantic suspense - murder mystery
-secret society of governesses
-secrets galore
-he falls first and hard
-sizziling chemistry
Gosh I enjoyed this one so much. A page turner with a murder mystery that a governess and millionaire police officer are both trying to solve, so of course they run into each other constantly. So many twists and turns. But the romance just sparkled between Emily and Zach as she tried to fight it. The sexual chemsitry, the steamy scenes, have a fan ready because you will be sweating. I don't want to say much but just a sparkling historical romance debut and I am so excited this will be a series so make sure to check it out.
September 27, 2023
I was on the edge of my seat for this whole book! Emily is such an amazing heroine - resilient, smart, strong, and so courageous! I love the intrigue in the book too, it kept me guessing and invested throughout the whole thing. I also really liked Zach, especially his kindness and his ability to truly see Emily. Overall, I loved this book and I'm so pleased that it is the first in a series, I can't wait to read the next ones!!
February 25, 2024
3.75 ✨ but rated up because it was so close!
This was a cute, fun, and steamy romance with some mystery included! I loved the banter, the background of how these characters became who they are and I loved the silly circumstances of how they met.
I wish there was a better balance of romance and mystery, I felt like it wasn’t super connected. I also felt like her abilities as a spy were not always talked about as much, if anything she felt inexperienced most of the time.
Either way this was such a good read! Excited to read the next!
This was a cute, fun, and steamy romance with some mystery included! I loved the banter, the background of how these characters became who they are and I loved the silly circumstances of how they met.
I wish there was a better balance of romance and mystery, I felt like it wasn’t super connected. I also felt like her abilities as a spy were not always talked about as much, if anything she felt inexperienced most of the time.
Either way this was such a good read! Excited to read the next!
January 29, 2024
I’m not sure what about it didn’t work, but it just didn’t. This ended up just being “fine.”
I feel like the balance between the mystery plot vs the romance was off, and there was somehow too little of both? I also felt like the present-day mystery was enough, and we didn’t also need a background mystery for the heroine.
3⭐️
I feel like the balance between the mystery plot vs the romance was off, and there was somehow too little of both? I also felt like the present-day mystery was enough, and we didn’t also need a background mystery for the heroine.
3⭐️
February 23, 2024
A delightfully witty Victorian romance, a governess spy running away from her past falls for an ex-soldier turned railroad magnate..
This is a good romance/mystery. Who is killing the ladies of the night?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
This is a good romance/mystery. Who is killing the ladies of the night?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
January 28, 2024
A truly mind-bending mystery and love story rolled into one. Words like unorthodox and unconventional spring to mind when describing Emily Leverton. She is a heroine unlike any I’ve read. Rather than being a society darling, she is a mysterious governess with a backbone of steel and the tenacity to overcome anything. Zachariah Denholm is neither a rake nor a society gent, he lives on the sidelines bordering gentility and the working class while trying to unmask a killer. As a man of wealth, the ton looks past his working class status making him most eligible. When these two come together it is in a clash of attraction and respect. I absolutely adored Zach’s taunting and teasing means of love. Exactly my kind of banter! There was so much to love in this story but the stand out to me that truly showed the subtle humour in their interactions, was the epistolary back and forth. Little notes filled with levity and blooming love. It was delightfully funny. The entire story proves a wonderful mix of levity, love and mystery that keeps you guessing. Wonderfully written and a great introduction to The Secret Society of Governess Spies.
February 4, 2024
This was a delightful debut! I especially loved the unconventional main characters - a thief and a former soldier who made his investment fortune and now solves mysteries to pass the time.
The exchanges are incendiary and this opposites attract romance will have you both swooning and laughing!
I cannot wait to follow this author's career!
Full review to come on Bookbub.
The exchanges are incendiary and this opposites attract romance will have you both swooning and laughing!
I cannot wait to follow this author's career!
Full review to come on Bookbub.
December 26, 2023
This is the best book I have read in a very long time. It was a little slow in the first chapter, but once you get past that, the action is quickly put into motion. There is a serial killer on the loose, and the two main characters are in the thick of it.
Emily is part of a governess spy system run by a woman called The Dove. She is training, and placing women such as Emily in specific aristocratic families to let her know if they hear or see anything suspicious. Emily grew up surrounded by criminals, and became one of them. Her mother sold her into marriage to a criminal, who is now assumed dead. He was on his way to Australia to con people in Australia, but the ship sank..
Zach, a former soldier, rich beyond measure due to good investments, is a police investigator in charge of finding the "Evangelist," who is murdering prostitutes.
Both are involved in the investigation, but Emily doesn't realize it. She doesn't let Zach know what she is doing.
This is almost a slow burn even though they share a kiss quite early in the story. Emily is very hesitant to do anything because of her past, plus she has what she keeps referring to as her "Big Secret." While there is great attraction, it takes a little while into the book before they act upon it. However, once they do admit feelings for one another, it becomes very intense. It adds to the story because their relationship is in the midst of the investigation. They didn't always take each other so seriously. The notes they sent each other were funny...not amusing, but really funny. No details because I don't want to spoil the fun in them.
I refuse to give any spoilers because there is no way to describe it without revealing important details. This reminds me of an Agatha Christie novel. Everyone has a role in the story, both minor and major. Even what seems like an innocuous dance with a random aristocrat becomes not so innocuous.
I was completely enthralled throughout the story, and felt a part of it. At one point, I startled someone near me when I got excited and yelled to them when I thought I figured out something, but found out I didn't. I was both disappointed but excited at the same time. It only meant there was more to solve.
There was a lot of humor, a lot of action, and a lot of jaw dropping.
The intimate scenes were graphic, but tastefully written.
I really loved the story, and was surprised when I realized who the main character of the novel really is. No, that's not a spoiler.
This is the first in the series, and the next governess has been introduced in this story. She seemed innocuous too.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Emily is part of a governess spy system run by a woman called The Dove. She is training, and placing women such as Emily in specific aristocratic families to let her know if they hear or see anything suspicious. Emily grew up surrounded by criminals, and became one of them. Her mother sold her into marriage to a criminal, who is now assumed dead. He was on his way to Australia to con people in Australia, but the ship sank..
Zach, a former soldier, rich beyond measure due to good investments, is a police investigator in charge of finding the "Evangelist," who is murdering prostitutes.
Both are involved in the investigation, but Emily doesn't realize it. She doesn't let Zach know what she is doing.
This is almost a slow burn even though they share a kiss quite early in the story. Emily is very hesitant to do anything because of her past, plus she has what she keeps referring to as her "Big Secret." While there is great attraction, it takes a little while into the book before they act upon it. However, once they do admit feelings for one another, it becomes very intense. It adds to the story because their relationship is in the midst of the investigation. They didn't always take each other so seriously. The notes they sent each other were funny...not amusing, but really funny. No details because I don't want to spoil the fun in them.
I refuse to give any spoilers because there is no way to describe it without revealing important details. This reminds me of an Agatha Christie novel. Everyone has a role in the story, both minor and major. Even what seems like an innocuous dance with a random aristocrat becomes not so innocuous.
I was completely enthralled throughout the story, and felt a part of it. At one point, I startled someone near me when I got excited and yelled to them when I thought I figured out something, but found out I didn't. I was both disappointed but excited at the same time. It only meant there was more to solve.
There was a lot of humor, a lot of action, and a lot of jaw dropping.
The intimate scenes were graphic, but tastefully written.
I really loved the story, and was surprised when I realized who the main character of the novel really is. No, that's not a spoiler.
This is the first in the series, and the next governess has been introduced in this story. She seemed innocuous too.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 19, 2024
I can only conclude that writing is hard :(
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What started with the promise to be an adventurous tale full of danger, espionage, and romance ended up being a hodgepodge of elements that never quite came together. In fact, I would almost say that the romance is what killed this book, which is devastating because I LOVE romance. It was either that or the completely modern phrasing and (stilted, awkward, cringe) dialogue, which certainly didn't help. (For example, "Geez, Emily," was totally jarring)
The mystery being investigated, the Evangelist murders, is intriguing, to say the least. The idea of a society of governess spies is fantastic, and I would read any book with that premise. If we had more cloak and dagger, more intent to the spying besides "you work in this house," we could have had something special.
Instead, enter Zach. I can forgive some insta-love if we have time to settle into the plot before things actually start happening, but they were making out at their second meeting and getting them together became the central focus, leading to even more mind-boggling choices and conveniences that actually had me laughing because they were so improbable.
Also: If you're writing a book set in any historical time period, please read even one article about the customs and norms of said time period. Please. The inaccuracies were almost physically painful. I wish it had been better. I wanted to love it. But it's just so bad.
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What started with the promise to be an adventurous tale full of danger, espionage, and romance ended up being a hodgepodge of elements that never quite came together. In fact, I would almost say that the romance is what killed this book, which is devastating because I LOVE romance. It was either that or the completely modern phrasing and (stilted, awkward, cringe) dialogue, which certainly didn't help. (For example, "Geez, Emily," was totally jarring)
The mystery being investigated, the Evangelist murders, is intriguing, to say the least. The idea of a society of governess spies is fantastic, and I would read any book with that premise. If we had more cloak and dagger, more intent to the spying besides "you work in this house," we could have had something special.
Instead, enter Zach. I can forgive some insta-love if we have time to settle into the plot before things actually start happening, but they were making out at their second meeting and getting them together became the central focus, leading to even more mind-boggling choices and conveniences that actually had me laughing because they were so improbable.
Also: If you're writing a book set in any historical time period, please read even one article about the customs and norms of said time period. Please. The inaccuracies were almost physically painful. I wish it had been better. I wanted to love it. But it's just so bad.
January 19, 2024
This book ended up being not at all like I expected, but I really loved it!
Emily has many dark secrets in her past, and she is trying to get away from them. She is recruited to be a governess by a secret network who plants governesses to spy on the ton. Emily is not a woman to mess around with, because of her upbringing in the lower classes, she can fight for herself and cleverly gets herself out of sticky situations.
Zach is a part of two worlds, being working class by working for the Metropolitan Police and is a part of the ton because of the money he has made in investments. He is currently on the case of finding the Evangelist, a serial killer who is killing working girls in the slums of London.
I really enjoyed how this book had the twist of governesses being spies. It makes complete sense because no one really thinks of them or pays attention to them. I also liked the backstory that Zach had, and how becoming rich didn't change him as a person. He accepted every part of Emily, no matter how ashamed she felt of it.
The level of spice in this book was also completely unexpected, but only added to my enjoyment of the book.
I highly recommend this book if you love historical romance, and would like it with a twist of spies and a murder mystery!
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the advanced readers copy, all thoughts are my own!
Emily has many dark secrets in her past, and she is trying to get away from them. She is recruited to be a governess by a secret network who plants governesses to spy on the ton. Emily is not a woman to mess around with, because of her upbringing in the lower classes, she can fight for herself and cleverly gets herself out of sticky situations.
Zach is a part of two worlds, being working class by working for the Metropolitan Police and is a part of the ton because of the money he has made in investments. He is currently on the case of finding the Evangelist, a serial killer who is killing working girls in the slums of London.
I really enjoyed how this book had the twist of governesses being spies. It makes complete sense because no one really thinks of them or pays attention to them. I also liked the backstory that Zach had, and how becoming rich didn't change him as a person. He accepted every part of Emily, no matter how ashamed she felt of it.
The level of spice in this book was also completely unexpected, but only added to my enjoyment of the book.
I highly recommend this book if you love historical romance, and would like it with a twist of spies and a murder mystery!
Thank you to Forever Publishing for the advanced readers copy, all thoughts are my own!
April 21, 2024
4.5⭐️
This was really fun! I really enjoy when historical romance books mix it up by not having everyone be a member of the ton. It makes for such an entertaining read!
There is a mystery to solve and a killer to catch, Emily has secrets of her own, and Zach is just utterly obsessed with her. I personally am just not a fan of detectives or policemen being the love interest, I think in this book it worked, but again, I’m just not a huge fan. I’m super excited for the next book though, I think it’ll be even better!
This was really fun! I really enjoy when historical romance books mix it up by not having everyone be a member of the ton. It makes for such an entertaining read!
There is a mystery to solve and a killer to catch, Emily has secrets of her own, and Zach is just utterly obsessed with her. I personally am just not a fan of detectives or policemen being the love interest, I think in this book it worked, but again, I’m just not a huge fan. I’m super excited for the next book though, I think it’ll be even better!
Read
January 29, 2024One part mystery plus one part romance, equals a very satisfying debut for Lindsay Lovise. Never Blow a Kiss is Book 1 in the series Secret Society of Governess Spies and Miss Emily Leverton is the first governess to get a book. Plucked from obscurity and the lower classes by a mysterious woman from the ton only known as The Dove, Emily is sent to live with the Eastmorelands as their governess and report any information that seems unusual. A serial killer known as The Evangelist has been murdering working women and Emily hopes to be of help in relaying valuable information that may help alleviate guilt she’s had in unknowingly trading secrets as a child.
Zachariah (Zach) Denholm is ex-military and a freelance cop who is a self-made man working the case of the Evangelist. More than one encounter put Zach and Emily face to face and many are met with humor and definitely flirting on Zach’s part. I loved how instantly he was taken with her. For some it might be a bit instalove, but everything in Zach’s countenance seemed heartfelt and he honestly appeared interested in wooing Emily. The flirtation and teasing is so much fun and I also appreciated how patient Zach was with Emily. She has secrets, to be sure, but Zach lets her reveal them in her own time.
Things you’ll find:
-meddling mamas of the ton
-the best worst villains (there’s more than one!)
-steamy sexy scenes and LOTS of kissing
-a mystery plot that runs a bit secondary to the romance, but neither are neglected
-lots of secrets and hidden identities
-likable MCs
I had so much fun reading this because there’s a great romance, adventure, and a mystery that wraps up nicely by the end. Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for my early copy. All opinions are my own.
Zachariah (Zach) Denholm is ex-military and a freelance cop who is a self-made man working the case of the Evangelist. More than one encounter put Zach and Emily face to face and many are met with humor and definitely flirting on Zach’s part. I loved how instantly he was taken with her. For some it might be a bit instalove, but everything in Zach’s countenance seemed heartfelt and he honestly appeared interested in wooing Emily. The flirtation and teasing is so much fun and I also appreciated how patient Zach was with Emily. She has secrets, to be sure, but Zach lets her reveal them in her own time.
Things you’ll find:
-meddling mamas of the ton
-the best worst villains (there’s more than one!)
-steamy sexy scenes and LOTS of kissing
-a mystery plot that runs a bit secondary to the romance, but neither are neglected
-lots of secrets and hidden identities
-likable MCs
I had so much fun reading this because there’s a great romance, adventure, and a mystery that wraps up nicely by the end. Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for my early copy. All opinions are my own.
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